cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and evaluation of antiproliferative activity of a novel series of hydroxychavicol analogs

Abstract We have recently demonstrated that hydroxychavicol is a major constituent and the most active biophenolic of Piper betel leaves with significant antiproliferative activity in the micro molar range. Herein we present the design, synthesis and evaluation of fifteen novel hydroxychavicol analogs with varying antiproliferative activities in cancer cell lines from two representative tissue types, namely, the prostate and cervix that show very encouraging results compared to the parent compounds. Our long range goal is to develop a structure–activity guided relationship to gain mechanistic insights into novel molecular targets of this class of bioactive molecules for rational drug development. Cytotoxicity-guided experimentation on these novel analogs yielded the following structural factors as the key activity regulators: 1) unlike the hydroxyl substituent at position-4, the position-3 hydroxyl is vital for enhanced activity 2) acetoxyl groups are dispensable for activity as corroborated earlier by others 3) allylic double bonds at 2′C–3′C serve to positively influence antiproliferative activity 4) long saturated side chains at 1′-position negatively regulate antiproliferative activity and 5) maneuvering position-4 with a benzyl group positively impacted the biological activity profile. Most amphiphilic compounds showed moderate to good therapeutic potential as expected on the basis of medicinal chemistry principles. Intriguingly, the most active compound with ten-fold higher activity than the parent molecule was realized by sheer serendipity to employ a silica gel based rearrangement that was further explored using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations. This is the first report to describe strategies for optimal synthesis of a novel series of 15 analogs based upon hydroxychavicol, a simple phytochemical of immense anticancer potential.
High vinyl high styrene solution SBR

Abstract Objective: the objective of this study is to prepare high vinyl copolymers containing various levels of styrene and butadiene, and also to prepare random butadiene in high styrene content styrene–butadiene copolymers (SBR) while controlling the styrene block length. These materials could be used in race tread applications. Summary: This reports presents the synthesis and characterization of random, high vinyl copolymers containing styrene and butadiene (SBR's). The styrene content of these SBR's ranged from 10 to 80%. These SBR's were synthesized via anionic polymerization initiated by a catalyst system with a ratio of 1/0.4/5 of n-butyllithium (n-BuLi) to sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) to N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA). Kinetic data as well as NMR and ozonolysis techniques confirm that random SBR copolymers are being produced for low styrene content polymers. The glass transition temperature (Tg), increased dramatically as the styrene content was increased. The amount of vinyl based upon the polymer's total composition within the copolymer was found to decrease linearly as you increase the amount of styrene in the polymer. TGA results show that high styrene content polymers degrade at lower temperatures. The RPA confirms that as the styrene content increases, the elastic modulus decreases. As the frequency increased, the tan delta decreased for each polymer. Tan delta does not appear to be a function of styrene content. TEM results helped to describe polymer microstructure.
Interrelationship of digitalis and potassium in auricular tachycardia with block.

Abstract An overdose of digitalis “can cause practically any form of arrhythmia.” 1 Auricular ectopic rhythms, however, have not been shown to occur with any frequency or to manifest any specific form as a consequence of digitalis intoxication. In our experience in patients with advanced congestive heart failure, one form of auricular arrhythmia is a relatively common manifestation of serious digitalis intoxication. 2 On the basis of the electrocardiographic pattern, the abnormal rhythm has been named paroxysmal auricular tachycardia with block . The following features have been used to distinguish it from other types of rapid heart action: (1) an auricular rate of 150 to 250 per minute, (2) varying degrees of atrioventricular block, (3) an isoelectric baseline between the P waves, (4) diminution of the atrioventricular delay by exercise, (5) augmentation of the delay by vagal stimulation, and finally (6) a tendency for the tachycardia to persist for days or even months. Thus this arrhythmia exhibits some of the features ascribed to both auricular tachycardia and flutter. 3,4 It has been shown that changes in body potassium alter the threshold of the heart to the toxic action of digitalis. 5 Ventricular premature beats caused by an excess of digitalis can be stopped by potassium administration. 6,7 Conversely potassium loss, irrespective of how this is achieved, may precipitate digitalis intoxication in patients on maintenance digitalis therapy. 8 If auricular tachycardia with block is caused by digitalis overdosage, a relationship between this arrhythmia and the potassium balance of the body should be demonstrable. It should be possible to abolish the tachycardia by the administration of potassium and to induce it by depleting body potassium. It is the purpose of this communication to outline such experience gained in the wards of the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital during the past year.
Associations Between Perceived Partner Support and Relationship Dynamics With Timing of Pregnancy Termination

Abstract Background Little is known about partner- and relationship-level characteristics that may affect the timing of pregnancy termination. The present study sought to address this issue by examining women’s perceptions of social support and relationship-level dynamics for their association with timing of pregnancy termination. Methods Data on partner characteristics and relationship dynamics were collected from 373 women receiving abortions at clinics in two large East Coast cities via a brief, self-administered survey. These surveys collected information on individual and partner characteristics as well as perceived emotional, financial, and material support and relationship dynamics. Results Forty-six percent of women (mean age, 25 years; 52% African American, 27% Latina, 9% White; 34% currently in school; 37% employed full time) in this study were terminating a pregnancy at more than 9 weeks’ gestation (mean, 9.6; median, 8; interquartile range, 6–12). On bivariate analysis, we found that women terminating early ( Discussion These findings suggest that factors influencing a woman’s decision to terminate a pregnancy are not limited to her own professional or personal goals, but also include the social and relationship context within which the pregnancy occurs.
Programmed Necrosis After Status Epilepticus

SUMMARY Recent data suggest that neuronal necrosis plays a prominent role in neuronal injury following status epilepticus (SE), even in the immature brain. We review the evidence that SE-induced neuronal necrosis is an active form of death involving caspases and mitochondrial death factors. For an expanded treatment of this topic see Jasper’s Basic Mechanisms of the Epilepsies, Fourth Edition (Noebels JL, Avoli M, Rogawski MA, Olsen RW, Delgado-Escueta AC, eds) published by Oxford University Press (available on the National Library of Medicine Bookshelf [NCBI] at www.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/books).
Key Note Lecture Toward a Mechanistic Taxonomy for Cell Death Programs

Background and Purpose— Programmed cell death (pcd) plays a critical role in the development of the nervous system, as well as in its response to insult. Both anti-pcd and pro-pcd modulators play prominent roles in development and disease, including ischemic cerebrovascular disease. The purpose of this article is therefore to review the basics of programmed cell death. Methods— There have been over 100 000 scientific and clinical publications on the topic of programmed cell death and its most well known form, apoptosis. The principles emerging from these studies are reviewed here. Results— Programmed cell death is a form of cell death in which the cell plays an active role in its own demise. Apoptosis is the most well-defined form of pcd, but recent studies have begun to characterize an alternative program, autophagic cell death. In addition, there appear to be programmatic cell deaths that do not fit the criteria for either apoptosis or autophagic cell death, arguing that additional programs may also be available to cells. Conclusion— Constructing a mechanistic taxonomy of all forms of pcd—based on inhibitors, activators, and identified biochemical pathways involved in each form of pcd—should offer new insight into cell deaths associated with cerebrovascular disease and other diseases, and ultimately offer new therapeutic approaches.
Barbamide, a Chlorinated Metabolite with Molluscicidal Activity from the Caribbean Cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula

The lipid extract from a Curacao collection of the marine cyanobacterium Lyngbya majuscula was toxic to the mollusc Biomphalaria glabrata. Subsequent bioassay-guided fractionation of this extract yielded a novel lipopeptide, barbamide, as the active compound (LC100 = 10 micrograms/mL). The structure of barbamide was determined by spectroscopic methods and was found to contain several unique structural features, including a trichloromethyl group and the methyl enol ether of a beta-keto amide.
The symmetric creep bowing of stacked fuel elements

Abstract The bowing of uranium fuel elements stacked vertically in reactors gives rise to forces on the splitters which may cause severe deformation. This paper considers the case of a symmetric element, whose top is held vertically above its bottom in a pin jointed manner; a detailed account being given for bowing, firstly, after the element has come into contact with two symmetrically placed restraints and, secondly, after the mid-point of the element is allowed to come into contact with the channel wall, no restraints being present. In the case of point restraints it is found that the total force on the two restraints due to the creep bowing of a fuel element whose shape is half a sine wave is initially 48 Pd sin πλ 2 π 2 λ 2 (3 − 2λ)L , where L is its length, (1 − λ)L is the distance between the restraints and d sin πλ/2 is the effective clearance; when λ = 1 this force is a minimum. The displacements of the axis from the vertical and the force on the splitters subsequently increase and for large times they are at a minimum if λ is about 2 3 . When the element is unrestrained and its mid-point is allowed to come into contact with the channel wall, it is found that for a period of time the element flattens itself against the wall before splitting occurs. The initial rate of moving apart of the points of contact is infinite. When the initial bow is sinusoidal, point contact is maintained for about 5 1 2 doubling times and the points of contact move half way to the ends after 26 3 8 doubling times. When the initial bow is a sine wave plus its third harmonic with 1 9 the fundamental amplitude, the point of contact moves half way after 13 5 8 doubling times. The mid-point moves so that after 23 doubling times its distance from the line joining the centres of the ends change from 0·2 in. to 0·154 in. and to 0·0723 in. in the two cases respectively. The maximum value of the force, attained after 28 3 4 and 18 1 4 doubling times in these two cases, is in each case about 1 1 2 times its initial value.
Stem Cell Fate Within 3D Hydrogels is Mediated by Network Structure-Dependent Traction Generation

A continuing goal in biomaterials research is to understand how cell adhesion to the surrounding materials and/or matrix regulates cell behavior in 3D. Advanced understanding of these processes may aid the development of synthetic biomaterials for tissue engineering applications, as well as to help understand basic cellular processes. The majority of past work, however, has focused on cell behavior atop 2D substrates that poorly recapitulate the 3D in vivo microenvironment [1]. Recent reports have suggested that within 3D hydrogels, encapsulated human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) fate is not determined by cell morphology or matrix mechanics alone [2], but by gel-structure dependent traction force generation [3]. As hMSCs represent a promising cell source for regenerative applications [4], it is critical to better develop our understanding of the link between cell fate and microenvironmental physical and biochemical cues in 3D, with a focus on the range of materials used in regenerative medicine. In the current work, hMSCs were encapsulated within degradable and non-degradable hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels of similar elastic moduli to assess the influence of hydrogel remodeling and cellular traction generation on differentiation lineage specification.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
The rox1 and rox2 RNAs Are Essential Components of the Compensasome, which Mediates Dosage Compensation in Drosophila

The rox1 and rox2 RNAs have been suggested to be components of the dosage compensation machinery in Drosophila. We show that both rox RNAs colocalize with the male-specific lethal proteins at hundreds of specific bands along the male X chromosome. The rox RNAs and MSL proteins also colocalize with the X chromosome in all somatic cells and are expressed in the same temporal pattern throughout development. Genetic analysis shows that the functions of the rox genes are redundant and required for the association of the MSL proteins with the male X chromosome. These data provide compelling evidence for a direct function of the rox RNAs in dosage compensation.
Recurrent intra-cardiac thrombosis—A unique presentation of prothrombin G20210 mutation

We report a 49-year-old female patient with recurrent large left ventricular thrombus on echocardiogram in an apparently normal heart and insignificant cardiac past medical history. She underwent an excision of the left ventricular mass, final biopsy on which proved it to be a thrombus. Postoperative anti-coagulation was initiated with enoxaparin and warfarin and the patient was followed up at a cardiology clinic 6 weeks later. A repeat trans-thoracic echocardiogram revealed a new mass arising from the left atrium. Considering the increased risk of repeat ventriculostomy, she was treated conservatively with her current management. During this time the patient's pro-thrombotic work-up revealed positive prothrombin G20210 mutation. A follow up trans-thoracic echocardiogram done 2 months later surprisingly revealed complete resolution of the intracardiac mass. Our patient had prothrombin G20210 mutation, an entity primarily known for deep venous thrombosis, which rarely causes intra-arterial thrombus, intra-cardiac being unreported. There are no established protocols for management of these cases. The rate of embolic episodes in mobile pedunculated thrombi is reported as high as 60%. Patients with prior embolism must be offered immediate surgery, especially if the thrombus is large with an irregular surface, pedunculated, and multiple in number. Aggressive anti-coagulation with close monitoring is essential.
Including 'learned sexuality' in the organization of sexual behavior.

Abstract Learning plays numerous important roles in sexual development. Yet, the possible impacts on sexuality, of learning from experience, are rarely included in discussions of the organization of behavioral sex differences and the differentiation of psychosexual function. This article reviews the empirical evidence for ‘learned sexuality’ with a goal of reintroducing the topic of nurture into discussions of the ontogenetic processes that lead to sexual reproduction in nature. Evolutionarily relevant examples of sexual learning are broadly represented in the animal kingdom, and can occur relatively early in development, leading to lasting changes in behaviors that might otherwise appear to be instinctive, or in other cases, maladaptive. The lasting effects of social and sexual experiences across the lifespan provide an essential link between steroid-mediated events occurring during development, behavioral plasticity, and changes in motivational states in adulthood.
Comparison of Bacillus monooxygenase genes for unique fatty acid production.

Abstract This paper reviews Bacillus genes encoding monooxygenase enzymes producing unique fatty acid metabolites. Specifically, it examines standard monooxygenase electron transfer schemes and related domain structures of these fused domain enzymes on route to understanding the observed oxygenase activities. A few crystallographic analyses of the standard bearer enzyme P450BM-3 are discussed to try to rationalize the common chemistries of this important enzyme family. Detailed P450BM-3 enzyme activities toward different substrates and the unique substrate-specific primary oxidation products are examined. A few orthologs to the recurring P450BM-3 enzyme as well as related small single-to-triple nucleotides changed mutants are also discussed. Finally, preliminary data characterizing unique in vivo-based primary and secondary products of a novel ortholog, the ALA2 strain, are presented. This later strain synthesizes several unique multi-oxidized reaction products that require additional study to further understand. It is hoped that a better understanding of these oxygenase reactions, particularly the ALA2 strain, will allow for realistically priced production of target multiple-oxygenated compounds with potential uses as specialty chemicals or as therapeutic agents.
Plant water status influences ozone sensitivity of bean plants

Abstract Studies were conducted in a controlled environment chamber to determine the association between plant water status and ozone sensitivity. Bean plants were subjected to various water stress regimes for 4 to 10 days using a semipermeable membrane system which controlled plant water status and then exposed to ozone. Ozone sensitivity was measured using stress ethylene which was highly correlated with foliar injury. Plant water stress decreased plant sensitivity to ozone; complete protection was attained within 1 to 3 days depending on the level of water stress. When water stress was removed, the plants regained ozone sensitivity equal to nonwater stressed plants within 6 days. The decreased ozone sensitivity was associated with only a small changes in leaf water potential. The reduced sensitivity following water stress was apparently associated with a decreased leaf conductance reducing ozone uptake.
Dexamethasone (DEX) Improves Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) and Respiratory Compliance (CRS) in Oxygen Dependent Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) Infants: A Randomized, Blinded Trial. † 1072

An increasing proportion of VLBW infants developing chronic lung disease have little initial respiratory distress. In a pilot study, we documented a one week weaning course of DEX given to extubated, oxygen dependent VLBW infants to significantly increase FRC and CRS (Am Rev Respir Crit Care Med 1997;155:A235). We now report the results of a randomized, placebo controlled trial of DEX (0.5 mg/kg/day × 3 days; 0.25 mg/kg/day × 3 days; 0.1 mg/kg/day × 1 day) in VLBW infants who are extubated but oxygen dependent at greater than 5 days of age. Nine infants received DEX (mean BW=1164g; GA= 27.9 wks; FiO2=30%; age=19.9 days), while ten infants served as controls (mean BW= 1070g; GA= 28.2 wks; FiO2=31%; age=16.0 days). FRC was measured with the nitrogen washout technique. A minimum of two measurements were performed with the neonate supine and quiet. A study was acceptable if the measurements had a coefficient of variation <10%. CRS was measured using the single breath occlusion technique (SensorMedics 2600).Significantly more infants in the DEX group weaned to room air by the end of therapy. Our preliminary results demonstrate a one week course of DEX given to extubated but oxygen dependent VLBW infants significantly increases FRC (78%) and CRS(40%). We speculate that DEX may decrease the development of chronic lung disease in oxygen dependent VLBW infants. Table
Creating Market Economies after Communism: The Impact of the European Union

Over the past two decades, the economies of many post-communist countries have undergone a profound transformation. Economies once predominantly collectivized have been transformed into market economies. But the extent to which a market economy has come into being varies widely across the post-communist world. Because the countries that have achieved the greatest degree of reform are current or prospective European Union members, the article considers whether the aspiration to enter the EU and negotiation of accession influenced the timing, pattern, and extent of economic reform. Using the EBRD's "transition indicators" to estimate the extent to which a market economy has been created, factors that may have influenced economic reform are considered.
An eigenvalue method using multiple frequency data for inverse scattering problems

Dirichlet and transmission eigenvalues have important applications in qualitative methods in inverse scattering. Motivated by the fact that these eigenvalues can be obtained from scattering data, we propose a new eigenvalue method using multiple frequency data (EM2F). The method detects eigenvalues and builds indicator functions to reconstruct the support of the target. Numerical reconstruction is quite satisfactory. Dirichlet or transmission eigenvalues are estimated. Furthermore, reconstruction of D and estimation of eigenvalues can be combined together to distinguish between the sound-soft obstacle and non-absorbing inhomogeneous medium.
Evaluation of growth hormone secretion: provocative testing vs endogenous 24-hour growth hormone profile.

. Shulman, D. I. and Bercu, B. B. (University of South Florida College of Medicine, All Children's Hospital, Florida, USA). Evaluation of growth hormone secretion: provocative testing vs endogenous 24-hour growth hormone profile. Acta Paediatr Scand [Suppl] 337:61, 1987. A total of 55 children underwent hGH provocative testing with two or more provocative agents, and measurement of endogenous 24-hour hGH secretion. Patients were divided into groups according to their peak hGH secretory response to provocative testing and their mean 24-hour hGH concentration. Peak hGH response to provocative testing was significantly greater in control children and in children with hGH neurosecretory dysfunction (GHND) than in the classical hGH deficient group. Mean 24-hour hGH concentration was significantly greater in the control group than in either the classical hGH deficient or GHND groups. Responses to provocative stimuli were intermediate for the GHND group compared to the classical hGH deficient and the control groups. The mean peak hGH secretory response to insulin-induced hypoglycaemia in the GHND group was poor compared to controls and was greatest following clonidine. The mean peak hGH response to an intravenous bolus of growth hormone releasing hormone was intermediate for the GHND group compared to hGH deficient and control groups. Highest nocturnal peak, first hGH pulse after sleep, mean peak hGH pulse and total number of pulses were also intermediate for the GHND group compared to the other groups. The control group had significantly more pulses greater than 5 ng/ml than did the other groups. Night-time and daytime hGH pools were lower in the classical hGH deficient and GHND groups compared to controls; however, there was overlap between groups. Six of seven children in the GHND group have responded to exogenous hGH therapy with increased linear growth velocity. Measurements of endogenous 24-hour hGH secretion may identify a subgroup of hGH deficient children who are not detected by provocative testing yet who may respond to exogenous hGH therapy with improved linear growth.
Aqueous sample in an EPR cavity: sensitivity considerations

The radial mode matching (RMM) method has been used to calculate accurately the microwave field distribution of the TE(011) mode in a spherical EPR cavity containing a linear aqueous sample, in order to understand in detail the factors affecting sensitivity in EPR measurements at X band. Specific details of the experiment were included in the calculations, such as the cavity geometry, the presence of a quartz dewar, the size of the aqueous sample, and the sample's dielectric properties. From the field distribution, several key physical parameters were calculated, including cavity Q, filling factor, mean microwave magnetic field at the sample, and cavity efficiency parameter Lambda. The dependence of EPR signal intensity on sample diameter for a cylindrical aqueous sample was calculated and measured experimentally for non-saturated and half-saturated samples. The optimal aqueous sample diameter was determined for both cases. The impact of sample temperature, conductivity, and cavity Q on sensitivity of EPR is discussed.
The Role of Master's Institutions in Developing Researchers: Rethinking the Master Plan.

In our increasingly complex society, research and research training in master's institutions is just as critical as in doctoral programs, but with a different emphasis and purpose. In PhD institutions, research programs are generally considered to be for the purpose of advancing knowledge in the discipline and helping to prepare the next generation of university professors. In master's institutions, the primary purpose of research and research training is to facilitate the application of knowledge and to provide advanced educational, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills for graduates who will become the next generation of community leaders, most of whom will not pursue doctoral work. In this article I will (1) review the educational and social importance of research at master's institutions, (2) point out how the nationwide appeal for research engagement at all levels of higher education tends to be at odds with traditional higher education master plans and state funding formulas, (3) discuss the...
Evidence for long-term planning in children’s hypothesis testing

Children in kindergarten through third grade were given a series of specially designed discrimination tasks in which the stimuli were toy animals rather than conventional multidimensional (e.g., color-form-size) compounds. The purpose was to assess the hypothesis-testing skills of young children in a situation in which they would not tend to perseverate on irrelevant features of the stimuli. Their ability to make strategic decisions was studied across tasks, in terms of measures of their effective use of immediate feedback information, as well as in terms of measures of their long-term planning across trials. Although age differences were found, children at all age levels learned the tasks very rapidly and showed a high degree of sophistication in hypothesis testing. Improvement was shown across training tasks, particularly in long-term planning. The results demonstrate for the first time clear evidence of such long-term planning among kindergarten children.
Promotion of BACE1 mRNA Alternative Splicing Reduces Amyloid β-Peptide Production

Production of the amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) via sequential proteolytic cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein by β- and γ-secretases is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease. The β-secretase that executes the first cleavage event is a transmembrane aspartyl protease known as β-site amyloid precursor protein-cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1). BACE1 pre-mRNA is alternatively spliced through the use of alternative splice sites in exons 3 and 4, although the significance of these splicing events is unclear. Here, we quantitatively measured relative levels of BACE1 transcripts and identified a novel splice variant of BACE1. We found a subtle but significant difference in BACE1 splicing between brain and pancreas, indicating the cellular environment can affect BACE1 alternative splicing. Furthermore, we have shown that BACE1 proteins translated from alternatively spliced transcripts have dramatically reduced β-secretase activity and promotion of BACE1 alternative splicing reduces Aβ production. These findings illustrate the importance of BACE1 alternative splicing in affecting the level of Aβ produced in cells and suggest that targeting regulation of BACE1 alternative splicing is a potential therapeutic strategy for lowering β-secretase activity.
Potent Small‐Molecule Suppression of Oxacillin Resistance in Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Shields down! Adjuvant molecules that have the ability to restore the susceptibility of multi-drug-resistant bacteria, such as MRSA, to clinically available antibiotics are a promising alternative to the development of novel antimicrobials. Pictured is a potent small molecule (1) that, at sub-minimum inhibitory concentration (sub-MIC) levels, lowers the MIC of oxacillin (2) against a number of MRSA strains by up to 512-fold.
Exposure to Pornography and Acceptance of Rape Myths

This paper quantitatively summarizes the literature examining the association between acceptance of rape myths and exposure to pornography. In this meta-analysis, nonexperimental methodology shows almost no effect (exposure to pornography does not increase rape myth acceptance), while experimental studies show positive effect (exposure to pornography does increase rape myth acceptance). Although the experimental studies demonstrate that violent pornography has more effect than nonviolent pornography, nonviolent pornography still demonstrates an effect.
Life-cycle carbon and cost analysis of energy efficiency measures in new commercial buildings

Abstract Energy efficiency in new building construction has become a key target to lower nation-wide energy use. The goals of this paper are to estimate life-cycle energy savings, carbon emission reduction, and cost-effectiveness of energy efficiency measures in new commercial buildings using an integrated design approach, and estimate the implications from a cost on energy-based carbon emissions. A total of 576 energy simulations are run for 12 prototypical buildings in 16 cities, with 3 building designs for each building-location combination. Simulated energy consumption and building cost databases are used to determine the life-cycle cost-effectiveness and carbon emissions of each design. The results show conventional energy efficiency technologies can be used to decrease energy use in new commercial buildings by 20–30% on average and up to over 40% for some building types and locations. These reductions can often be done at negative life-cycle costs because the improved efficiencies allow the installation of smaller, cheaper HVAC equipment. These improvements not only save money and energy, but reduce a building’s carbon footprint by 16% on average. A cost on carbon emissions from energy use increases the return on energy efficiency investments because energy is more expensive, making some cost-ineffective projects economically feasible.
Endogenous CD8+ T Cell Expansion During Regression of Monoclonal EBV-Associated Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder

There are experimental data which suggest that the primary immune effector cell responsible for maintaining immune surveillance against the outgrowth of EBV-transformed B cells in humans is the CTL, but in vivo proof of this is lacking. In this study we perform a series of cellular and molecular assays to characterize an autologous, endogenous immune response against a transplantation-associated, monoclonal, EBV+ posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). Following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation, a patient developed a monoclonal PTLD of donor B cell origin. With a decrease in immune suppression, we document the emergence of endogenous, donor-derived CD3+CD8+ CTLs, followed by regression of the PTLD. The TCR Vbeta repertoire went from a polyclonal pattern prior to the development of PTLD to a restricted TCR Vbeta pattern during the outgrowth and regression of PTLD. Donor-derived CD3+CD8+ T lymphocytes displayed MHC class I-restricted cytolytic activity against the autologous EBV+ B cells ex vivo without additional in vitro sensitization. The striking temporal relationship between the endogenous expansion of a TCR Vbeta-restricted, CD3+CD8+ population of MHC class I-restricted CTL, and the regression of an autologous monoclonal PTLD, provides direct evidence in humans that endogenous CD3+CD8+ CTLs can be responsible for effective immune surveillance against malignant transformation of EBV+ B cells.
Parallel programming to identify cellular contexts

High-throughput distributed data analysis based on clustered computing is gaining increasing importance in the field of computational biology. This paper describes a parallel programming approach and its software implementation using Message Passing Interface (MPI) to parallelize a computationally intensive algorithm for identifying cellular contexts. We report successful implementation on a 1,024 processor Beowulf cluster to analyze microarray data consisting of hundreds of thousands of measurements from different datasets. Detailed performance evaluation shows that data analysis that could have taken months on a stand-alone computer was accomplished in less than a day.
Multiple Personality Disorder

Multiple personality disorder (MPD), which has been described elsewhere (Coons, Bowman, & Milstein, 1988; Kluft, 1991b; Putnam, 1989; Putnam, Guroff, Silberman, Barban, & Post, 1986; Ross, 1989), is a polysymptomatic disorder which most often presents in women who report histories of long-standing and severe physical and sexual abuse beginning in early childhood. Depression most commonly overlies the more subtle dissociative symptomatology. Loewenstein (1991a) best articulated the polysymptomatic nature of MPD by dividing the syndrome into symptom clusters, including process, amnesic, autohypnotic, posttraumatic, somatoform, and affective symptoms. The dissociative symptoms will be described first, even though they are more subtle and have prompted one expert to call for a radical change in the way MPD is diagnosed (Nakdimen, 1992).
Mitochondrial Profile and Responses to TGF-β Ligands in Keratoconus

ABSTRACTPurpose: Keratoconus (KC) is a complex corneal dystrophy with multifactorial etiology. Previous studies have shown evidence of mitochondrial abnormalities in KC; however, the exact cause of these abnormalities remains unknown. The aim of this study was to identify if transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) isoforms play a role in the regulation of mitochondrial proteins in human KC cells (HKC).Materials and Methods: Human corneal fibroblasts (HCF) and HKC were isolated and cultured for 4 weeks in three different conditions: (a) Control: MEM + 10%FBS, (b) MEM + 10%FBS + TGF-β1 and (c) MEM + 10%FBS + TGF-β3. All samples were processed for mitochondrial damage analysis using real-time PCR.Results: We quantified and analyzed 84 mitochondrial and five housekeeping genes in HCFs and HKCs. Our data showed that when TGF-β1 and/or TGF-β3 were compared with control in HCFs, nine genes were significantly different; however, no genes were significantly regulated by the TGF-β isoforms in HKCs. Significant differe...
Notes from HPPAC 2005

Power-aware computing has become popular over the last several years. Most research concerns saving energy in server or mobile systems. However, power-aware mechanisms recently have gained traction in the high-performance computing community.
Nearly optimal vector quantization via linear programming

The authors present new vector quantization algorithms. The new approach is to formulate a vector quantization problem as a 0-1 integer linear program. They first solve its relaxed linear program by linear programming techniques. Then they transform the linear program solution into a provably good solution for the vector quantization problem. These methods lead to the first known polynomial-time full-search vector quantization codebook design algorithm and tree pruning algorithm with provable worst-case performance guarantees. They also introduce the notion of pseudorandom pruned tree-structured vector quantizers. Initial experimental results on image compression are very encouraging. >
Retinoids in lung cancer: friend, foe, or fellow traveler?

An Initial Era of Optimism The study of retinoids in lung and upper aerodigestive tract cancer dates back to seminal observations by Wohlbach and Howe, who discovered that vitamin A deprivation of cattle led to an increased incidence of lung and upper aerodigestive tract cancers. Subsequent studies have demonstrated enhanced lung carcinogenesis in vitamin A-deficient animals exposed to the tobacco carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene, possibly due to enhanced binding of the carcinogen to tracheal epithelial DNA. These findings have paved the way to vitamin A intervention in experimental lung carcinogenesis. The extension of these studies to human lung carcinogenesis and prevention was supported by epidemiologic studies, which suggested that significant dietary intake of vitamin A and carotenoids plays an important role in decreased cancer incidence. Pharmacologically, it would be several decades before Hong et al and others would show that high-doses of a synthetic retinoid (13-cis-retinoic acid or isotretinoin) could reverse oral premalignant lesions. Further trials by Hong et al and Pastorino et al showed that high-doses of synthetic or natural vitamin A could reduce the incidence of second primary head and neck and lung tumors in patients with a prior history of tobacco-related cancer. While the highdoses, in particular of the synthetic vitamin A derivatives, were too toxic to administer to a broad patient population, this optimism led to further development of retinoids in tobacco-related cancers, as well as the biologic implications of loss or gain of function of retinoid-related genes.
GeoSheet: A Distributed Visualization Tool for Geometric Algorithms

GeoSheet (version 1.0) is an interactive visualization tool for visualizing geometric algorithms in distributed environments. It provides features such as interactive visualization of program states for debugging, high-level graphical input/output manipulation facilities for geometric objects, reuse of existing data structures and algorithms implementation, and more importantly distributed executions on heterogeneous machines at different sites. To minimize development effort of the tool we make use of existing software packages available in public domain. Specifically we extend Xfig with a message-driven interface and a socket-based interprocess communication (IPC) mechanism. This extended-Xfig is the backbone of this version of the tool. Object-oriented programming methodology is used to construct the visualization interface. By deriving from traditional data type and algorithm libraries, our abstract GeoObject representation super-classes are easy to use, easy to construct, and highly portable. Although GeoSheet is not restricted to a particular application domain or any programming language, this release only contains geometric algorithm implementations in C++ and LEDA. We hope that the geometric algorithm designers will find it useful when they develop their algorithms.
On optimizing the feedback components in a voltage-feedback amplifier

For a voltage-feedback amplifier in which the open-loop gain will be much greater than the closed-loop gain, it is possible to calculate values of the feedback resistors that will maximize the open-loop gain. This paper presents the derivation and compares the results to a series of PSPICE simulations. Agreement is found to be excellent.
Unifying semantic and content-based approaches for retrieval of environmental sounds

Creating a database of user-contributed recordings allows sounds to be linked not only by the semantic tags and labels applied to them, but also to other sounds with similar acoustic characteristics. Of paramount importance in navigating these databases are the problems of retrieving similar sounds using text or sound-based queries, and automatically annotating unlabeled sounds. We propose an integrated system, which can be used for text-based retrieval of unlabeled audio, content-based query-by-example, and automatic annotation. To this end, we introduce an ontological framework where sounds are connected to each other based on a measure of perceptual similarity, while words and sounds are connected by optimizing link weights given user preference data. Results on a freely available database of environmental sounds contributed and labeled by non-expert users, demonstrate effective average precision scores for both the text-based retrieval and annotation tasks.
The Politics of British Policing in the Thatcher/Major State

The politics of British policing from 1979 to 1997 was guided by ideology and political practicality. Margaret Thatcher and John Major were libertarians committed to the reduction of the British state, but in classical libertarian fashion, these considerations did not apply to criminal justice agencies, which were needed to cope with rising crime in a growing and increasingly deregulated economy. The chief theme of practical criminal justice politics was the sustained effort of the Home Office to gain greater de facto control over policing without increased de jure accountability. This was achieved by laws and by administrative measures. The Tories also imposed a distinctive libertarian style on policing through their micro-ideology of managerialism, designed to get the police to conceive themselves as economical service providers and the public as customers.
Serotonin mechanisms in heart valve disease II: the 5-HT2 receptor and its signaling pathway in aortic valve interstitial cells.

Serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)]-mediated cardiac valvular disease has been commonly observed in patients with carcinoid tumors. Previous research by others using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that aortic valve cells expressed predominantly 5-HT 2A/2B receptors (5-HT 2A R). Related investigations by our group using sheep aortic valve interstitial cell (SAVIC) cultures demonstrated that 5-HT both up-regulates transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 expression and activity, and also results in increased phospholipase C (PLC) activity. Thus, the present study investigated the hypothesis that the 5-HT signaling pathway in SAVICs involves 5-HT 2 Rs with associated G-protein signal transduction. The objectives were to functionally characterize in SAVIC cultures the native serotonin receptor subtypes using specific agonists and antagonists, and to delineate the serotonin-signaling pathway. 5-HT administration caused a marked stimulation of PLC activity. SAVIC studies of specific agents that target the 5-HT 2 R subtypes indicate that this response seemed to be mediated predominantly by 5-HT 2A Rs. Furthermore, the sheep 5-HT 2A R was identified by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction with sequence confirmation including comparisons to pig and human 5-HT 2A R. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk 1/2) is a signaling molecule downstream from the 5-HT 2A R. Both a protein kinase C inhibitor, GF109203X, and a Src inhibitor, PP1, attenuated 5-HT-stimulated Erk 1/2 activation. However, a 5-HT 2A R antagonist, MDL 100907, inhibited 5-HT up-regulation of PLC and TGF-β1, while having far less pronounced effects on Erk 1/2. In conclusion, these studies of the signal transduction activity of SAVICs in response to 5-HT have demonstrated that the 5-HT 2A Rs are the most functionally active of the 5-HT 2 Rs in this cell type. Furthermore, 5-HT 2A Rs are also involved in 5-HT up-regulation of active TGF-β. 5-HT also mediated strong Erk 1/2 signaling via the MAP-kinase pathway, which was only in part because of 5-HT 2A R activity. Thus, major 5-HT Erk 1/2 signaling beyond that controlled by 5-HT 2 Rs must involve other serotonin receptor types and/or secondary signaling events.
Physical Theory of Voltage Fade in Lithium- and Manganese-Rich Transition Metal Oxides

Lithium- and manganese-rich (LMR) transition metal oxide cathodes are of interest for lithium-ion battery applications due to their increased energy density and decreased cost. However, the advantages in energy density and cost are offset, in part, due to the phenomena of voltage fade. Specifically, the voltage profiles (voltage as a function of capacity) of LMR cathodes transform from a high energy configuration to a lower energy configuration as they are repeatedly charged (Li removed) and discharged (Li inserted). We propose a physical model of voltage fade that accounts for the emergence of a low voltage Li phase due to the introduction of transition metal ion defects within a parent Li phase. The phenomenological model was re-cast in a general form and experimental LMR charge profiles were de-convoluted to extract the evolutionary behavior of various components of LMR capacitance profiles. Evolution of the voltage fade component was found to follow a universal growth curve with a maximal voltage fade capacity of ≈20% of the initial total capacity. © The Author(s) 2015. Published by ECS. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License (CC BY, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted reuse of the work in any
Irradiation softening in pure iron single crystals

The characteristics of irradiation softening in Fe were studied. Results show that irradiation softening effect can be explained by the intrinsic mechanism, namely, the interaction of screw dislocations with randomly dispersed interstitials. At least some of the solid solution softening phenomena observed in alloys can be explained by the same mechanism. However, the alloying may be accompanied by an additional effect such as solute segregation to dislocations which may also strongly affect the yield stress. This effect may mask the softening effect partially or totally. Changes in the dislocation structure of deformed specimens caused by alloying, which are often reported in electron microscopic investigations, support this contention. The alloying, therefore, may not be as good as the low temperature irradiation in studying the effect of random solutes on dislocation motion and yield stress. (auth)
Cartography: performative, participatory, political

This report examines the ways in which mapping is performative, participatory and political. Performativity has received increasing attention from scholars, and cartography is no exception. Interest has shifted from the map as object to mapping as practice. Performativity is a cultural, social and political activity; maps as protest and commentary. The internet both facilitates and shapes popular political activism, but scholars have been slow to grasp amateur political mappings, although analysis of political deployments of mapping in state, territorial and imperial projects remains rich. Finally, some authors suggest that cartography be understood as existence (becoming) rather than essence (fixed ontology).
Electrophysiological indices of selective auditory attention in subjects with and without tinnitus

The present investigation was conducted in an attempt to determine whether selective auditory attention abilities differed between normal subjects and subjects with bothersome tinnitus. Subjects were 37 adults with tinnitus and high-frequency hearing loss (not affecting thresholds at 500 and 1000 Hz) and 15 subjects who were audiometrically and otologically normal. Results suggested that an electrophysiological index of early selective auditory attention (i.e., the negative difference wave, Nd) was of greater magnitude in tinnitus patients. Also, the cortical N1 component occurred significantly later in the presence of selective attention in tinnitus subjects only. Results of this investigation may support the view that early selective auditory attention in subjects with bothersome tinnitus differs from that of normal subjects.