cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structural revision of Harrisonin and 12 beta-acetoxyharrisonin, two limonoids from Harrisonia abyssinica

The structures of the known limonoids harrisonin (1) and 12β-acetoxyharrisonin (2), isolated from the root bark of Harrisonia abyssinica, were reanalyzed by modern 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic methods, and the molecular structure and relative configuration of 12β-acetoxyharrisonin were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The spectral findings obtained require revision of the structures of these compounds from 1 and 2 to 3 and 4, respectively. The new molecular structures 3 and 4 display a novel limonoid skeleton with a unique five-membered ring B.
Activation of A2a adenosine receptors in the nucleus tractus solitarius inhibits renal but not lumbar sympathetic nerve activity

Abstract The activation of adenosine A 2a receptors in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) via microinjection of the selective agonist CGS 21680 elicits long-lasting, dose-dependent decreases in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) and preferential dilation of the iliac vascular bed in comparison to the renal and mesenteric vascular beds. We investigated whether differential changes in regional sympathetic output occur with A 2a receptor activation. In 24 chloralose/urethane anesthetized male Sprague–Dawley rats MAP, HR, renal (RSNA) and lumbar sympathetic nerve activity (LSNA) were recorded simultaneously. Data were analyzed as both the maximum decrease and the integral of the decrease over the duration of the depressor response. Microinjection of CGS 21680 (2 and 20 pmol in 50 nl volume) into the subpostremal NTS caused significant and dose-dependent decreases in MAP, HR and RSNA, however, did not significantly decrease LSNA in comparison to the effect of vehicle. Maximum responses of RSNA vs. LSNA in Δ% of control values were: −32±4 vs. −9±2, and −59±4 vs. −19±5 for low ( n =9) and high ( n =8) doses of CGS 21680 respectively; integral responses of RSNA vs. LSNA in Δ%×min were: −487±112 vs. −19±35 and −1258±164 vs. −175±126 for low and high doses of CGS 21680 respectively. Microinjections of vehicle ( n =7) did not alter integral hemodynamic or neural parameters. We conclude that activation of A 2a adenosine receptors in the NTS evokes differential changes in visceral vs. somatic sympathetic nerve activity which cannot explain differential vascular responses in terms of simple sympathetic withdrawal. Lack of significant inhibition of LSNA combined with preferential vasodilation in hindquarter vascular bed suggests that active vasodilation may be triggered by activation of A 2a adenosine receptors in the subpostremal NTS.
Elective osteotomies and bone grafting of irradiated midfacial bones

Summary Elective osteotomies of post-irradiated midfacial bones to correct the resulting facial deformities can be safely performed. When there is an associated radiation-induced enophthalmos, improvement in appearance can be achieved, but the results often falls short of an ideal restoration. Transposing a temporalis flap into the orbit is an excellent means of freeing the irradiated, contracted, enucleated orbital socket.
Diabetes patient education: a health care provider perspective.

Diabetes patient educa tion, a preventive health service, is an integral component of the overall program of care for the diabetic patient. Affecting both biomedical and psychosocial status, it may be analyzed through its knowledge- and behavior-based com ponents. Both are impor tant to the overall result, and each involves distinct provider knowledge and skills for successful, effec tive application. This application optimally in cludes a reproducible process involving a needs assessment, educational content planning, im plementation strategies, and appropriate evaluative methods. Familiarity with these concepts and tech niques will benefit the interested health care provider.
Synthesis of polyphosphine ligands containing trimethylene linkages and platinum(II)-polyphosphine complexes

Abstract The addition of lithium diisopropylamide (LDA) to solutions of 1-bromo-3- chloropropane and a primary or secondary phosphine in THF at − 78°C provides a new, inexpensive and time efficient method for the synthesis of high-purity 3-chloropropyl- phosphines in high yield. The monophosphine intermediate C 6 H 5 P[CH 2 CH 2 CH 2 Cl] 2 was used for the synthesis of the known chelating triphosphine ligands C 6 H 5 P[CH 2 CH 2 CH 2 P(C 6 H 5 ) 2 ] 2 (ttp) and C 6 H 5 P[CH 2 CH 2 CH 2 P(C 6 H 11 ) 2 ] 2 (Cyttp). This method was extended to the synthesis of two new polyphosphine ligands that contain electronwithdrawing groups, i.e. ( p -CF 3 C 6 H 4 ) 2 PCH 2 CH 2 CH 2 P(H)C 6 H 5 (CF 3 PPH) and C 6 H 5 P [CH 2 CH 2 CH 2 P( p -CF 3 C 6 H 4 ) 2 ] 2 (CF 3 ttp). Platinum(II) complexes of CF 3 PPH and CF 3 ttp were synthesized and the spectral properties of these complexes are compared to known platinum(II) complexes.
Elusive locus of control in biological development: genetic versus developmental programs.

Taken as a composite, the meaning of the composite term “genetic program”—widely taken to suggest an explanation of biological development — simultaneously depends upon and underwrites the particular presumption that a “plan of procedure” for development is itself written in the sequence of nucleotide bases. Is this presumption correct? I want to argue that, at best, it must be said to be misleading, and at worst, simply false: To the extent that we may speak at all of a developmental program, or of a set of instructions for development, in contra-distinction to the data or resources for such a program, current research obliges us to acknowledge that these “instructions” are not written into the DNA itself (or at least, are not all written in the DNA), but rather are distributed throughout the fertilized egg. I will argue that the notion of genetic program depends upon, and sustains, a fundamental category error in which two independent distinctions, one between “genetic” and “epigenetic,” and the other, between program and data, are pulled into mistaken alignment. The net effect of such alignment is to reinforce two outmoded associations: on the one hand, between “genetic” and active, and, on the other, between “epigenetic” and passive. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 285:283–290, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Security through Disarmament: The Story of the Weapons of Mass Destruction Commission

The world has been trying to eliminate weapons of mass destruction (WMD) — nuclear, biological and chemical arms — for over half a century. Yet many such weapons remain, and progress in nuclear disarmament has been especially disappointing. The chronic failure to achieve agreed WMD disarmament mandates has prompted the creation of several independent international commissions to find some solutions. The WMD Commission created by Sweden in late 2003 was the latest such venture, and its 2006 report has received international acclaim. Chaired by Hans Blix, the Commission covered disarmament, non-proliferation and counter-terrorism issues, and did so from a variety of policy dimensions, from unilateral action through fully multilateral cooperation. Written by a member of the Commission's secretariat staff, this article tells the story of the Commission: how it conducted its work, what it proposed and what impacts it has had — and may yet have — in revitalizing WMD disarmament efforts.
Deconvolution applied to the kinetics of extracorporal drug removal. Haemodialysis of cefsulodin.

A novel approach to the evaluation of the kinetics of drug removal by an extracorporal device (ECD), e.g., haemodialysis, haemofiltration, and haemoperfusion, is presented. The rate and extent of extracorporal drug removal (ECR) are determined by deconvolution. The proposed method is model independent in the sense that no specific models of corporal or extracorporal disposition are required. The estimation of various derived functions and parameters useful for describing ECR such as clearance and fractional drug removal are facilitated by the technique. The kinetics of cefsulodin elimination by haemodialysis in 3 patients were evaluated using the deconvolution approach. The results indicated that cefsulodin was dialyzable with ∼50% of the drug in the body removed by haemodialysis over 3–4 h.
Proposed smart integrated-optical preprocessor using holographic subtraction

The paper presents a proposed integrated-optical preprocessor with a holographic subtraction. It is based on an optical analog of a set of N analog voltages formed by passing an optical plane wave, confined in an electrooptic waveguide, under a set of N electrodes to which the voltages are applied; in the limit in which diffraction is ignored, the wavefront of the emerging guided wave will have superimposed upon it N discrete phase shifts. Processors which operate upon voltages encoded in this manner are being fabricated; they include a comparator in which incoming data are compared to a holographic record of the optical analog of a reference set, and a 'smart' system based upon holographic self-subtraction, in which the processor can independently adapt to changes in background information. The preprocessor operation is described in the screening, identification, and the self-subtraction modes, and implementation of devices in an integrated optical configuration is discussed.
Spatial-frequency spectrum of patterns changes the visibility of spatial-phase differences

It is shown that spatial-frequency components over a 4-octave range affected the visibility of spatial-phase differences. Contrast thresholds were measured for discrimination between two (+45- and -45-deg) spatial phases of a sinusoidal test grating added to a background grating. The background could contain one or several sinusoidal components, all in 0-deg phase. Phase differences between the test and the background were visible at lower contrasts when test and background frequencies were harmonically related than when they were not, when test and background frequencies were within 1 octave than when they were farther apart, when the fundamental frequency of the background was low than when it was high, and for some discriminations more than for others, after practice. The visibility of phase differences was not affected by additional components in the background if the fundamental and difference frequencies of the background remained unchanged. Observers' reports of their strategies gave information about the types of attentive processing that were used to discriminate phase differences. Attentive processing facilitated phase discrimination for multifrequency gratings spanning a much wider range of spatial frequencies than would be possible by using only local preattentive processing. These results were consistent with the visibility of phase differences being processed by some combination of even- and odd-symmetric simple cells tuned to a wide range of different spatial frequencies.
Influence of adjuvants on murine immune responses against the C‐terminal 19 kDa fragment of Plasmodium vivax merozoite surface protein‐1 (MSP‐1)

The immunogenicity of a yeast-expressed 19 kDa fragment of P vivax MSP-1 in the presence of different adjuvant formulations was evaluated. ICR mice were immunized with the 19 kDa antigen, using Freund's, alum, and block copolymer P1005 in water-in-oil (W/O) or oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions with or without detoxified lipopolysaccharide (RaLPS) as adjuvants. Five weeks following immunization with the antigen, mice were boosted with asexual blood-stage antigens. Three weeks after the last immunization with the 19 kDa antigen, mice from the Freund's group and most groups that received P1005 as adjuvant had higher total IgG titres than those that received alum as adjuvant or antigen alone. Antibody responses after the antigen immunization were predominantly of the IgG1 isotype, but mice in the Freund's and P1005 (W/O or O/W emulsion with or without RaLPS) groups also had high titres of IgG2a and IgG2b. Antibody titres against merozoites increased in all groups after the parasite antigen boost. IgG2a levels in the group that received antigen in P1005 plus RaLPS in the W/O emulsion were higher than those receiving Freund's, alum or the other copolymer adjuvants. The high IgG2a titres in this group were associated with reduced IL-10 production.
NOTCH1 mutations in CLL associated with trisomy 12

Two recent studies reported wholegenome sequencing of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) samples and found repeated mutations in the XPO1 and NOTCH1 genes. XPO1 was found mutated in 2.4% of cases, while NOTCH1 was found mutated in 12.2% or 15.1% of CLL samples. Here we report the results of sequencing of XPO1 and NOTCH1 in 186 CLL cases. Our results confirmed frequency of XPO1 mutations. However, we found only 5 NOTCH1 mutations in 127 IGVH unmutated/ZAP70+ CLL samples (4%), and one mutation was found in IGVH mutated/ZAP70− CLL for a total percentage of 1.5%. Because 4 of 6 mutated samples also showed trisomy 12, we sequenced NOTCH1 in an additional 77 cases with trisomy 12 CLLs, including 47 IGVH unmutated/ZAP70+ cases. Importantly, we found 41.9% NOTCH1 mutation frequency in aggressive trisomy 12 CLL cases. Our data suggest that activation of NOTCH1 plays a critical role in IGVH unmutated/ZAP70+ trisomy 12 CLL.
Towards keyboard independent touch typing in VR

A new hand- or finger-mounted data input device, called KITTY, is presented. KITTY is designed for keyboard independent touch typing and supports traditional touch-typing skills as a method for alphanumeric data input. This glove-type device provides an ultra-portable solution for ``quiet'' data input into portable computer systems and full freedom of movement in mobile VR and AR environments. The KITTY design follows the concept of the column and row layout found on traditional keyboards, allowing users to draw from existing touch typing skills, easing the required training time.
Putting the pieces together: The role of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in relational memory encoding

Results from fMRI have strongly supported the idea that the ventrolateral PFC (VLPFC) contributes to successful memory formation, but the role the dorsolateral PFC (DLPFC) in memory encoding is more controversial. Some findings suggest that the DLPFC is recruited when one is processing relationships between items in working memory, and this processing specifically promotes subsequent memory for these relationships. However, previous studies could not rule out the possibility that DLPFC promotes memory during all elaborative encoding conditions and contributes to memory on all subsequent associative memory tests. To address this question directly, we used fMRI to examine activity during two encoding tasks that prompted participants to encode either relational or item-specific information. On relational trials, participants imagined pairs of items interacting, whereas on item-specific trials, participants imagined the items spatially separated and in different sizes. After scanning, we examined memory for relational information and item-specific information. fMRI results showed that DLPFC activity specifically promoted memory for relational information during relational encoding and not memory for item-specific information during item-specific encoding. In contrast, activity in the VLPFC predicted memory for both relational and item-specific information. The present results are consistent with the idea that the DLPFC specifically contributes to successful memory formation through its role in building relationships among items.
The Effect of Different Cutting Procedures on the Cooked Yield and Tenderness of Cut-Up Broiler Parts

Abstract Due to the variety of commercial cutting techniques and the size and shape of broiler parts, there is a need for a detailed evaluation of cooked meat yield and related qualities of these parts. Eight commercial cutting techniques, resulting in twenty-five distinct piece types, were studied. Differences mainly involved subdivisions of the breast and separation of it from the back portions, and subdivisions of leg and adjacent back. Two cutting times were employed: within two hours after evisceration, and after 48 hours chilled aging. Parts were frozen, thawed, water cooked, and cooked yield, percent meat, skin, and bone determined. Shear values of breast muscle were determined. Delayed cutting produced slightly lower shear values (about 15% less) for breast meat subjected to major transverse cuts, but the difference was of questionable practical importance. Percentage of bone ranged from 43.5% for joint cut wing to 3.4% for wishbone portion of breast. The results will be useful in determining edible meat portions for the school lunch programs, other institutional users, and the consumer.
Immunotoxicity—The Risk is Real

Several papers published over the last year represent significant progress in closing the gap between rodent immunotoxicity data and human risk and indicate that, at least for the developing immune system, the concern raised by rodent data is justified. The studies reviewed here show that suppression of immune responses in rodents is predictive of suppression of immune responses in humans and that there is a relationship between immune suppression following developmental exposure to the toxicants and enhanced risk of infectious or neoplastic disease in humans. The three cases highlighted here are remarkable in that they all deal with real-world environmental exposures that represent different media -- air (cigarette smoke), water (arsenic), and food (polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs]) -- and constitute very real risks. Moreover, the arsenic and PCB studies actually demonstrate a quantitative relationship between human exposure and immune suppression. There is evidence that in utero exposure to cigarette smoke and arsenic but not PCBs is associated with increased risk of allergic disease as well. There is clearly potential for designing studies that could address both issues.
Psoriasis, hepatitis B, and the tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitory agents: a review and recommendations for management.

Background Tumor necrosis factor inhibitory agents are currently considered to be contraindicated in psoriatic patients with hepatitis B. Objective We aim to provide guidance to dermatologists on the use of tumor necrosis factor inhibitor therapy in these patients. Methods The current literature was reviewed regarding the use of tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitory agents (etanercept, adalimumab, and infliximab) in psoriatic patients with particular reference to hepatitis B infection. Results Tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor therapy may result in reactivated hepatitis B in hepatitis B surface antigen-positive patients with psoriasis. This also occurs, although less frequently in patients with an isolated positive hepatitis B core antibody. Thus, all psoriasis patients should be screened for hepatitis B surface antigen plus hepatitis B core antibody prior to the initiation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor therapy. Infliximab has been associated with more reactivation cases than the other 2 agents and fatalities have been reported with this agent. Evidence is presented that the risk of reactivation can be greatly minimized or eliminated by early or pre-emptive antiviral therapy. Limitations The data is largely based on small case series that are retrospective in nature. Conclusions Hepatitis B screening is essential prior to the initiation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor therapy. Psoriatic patients found to be hepatitis B surface antigen or hepatitis B core antibody-positive should be referred to an appropriate specialist for evaluation and therapy. This would allow for the safe use of tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors in psoriatic patients despite recently published guidelines to the contrary.
Dietary fat plays a major role in obesity: no

The percentage of dietary energy from fat has been suggested to be an important determinant of body fat, and this presumed effect has been invoked to justify the general promotion of low-fat diets. Dietary fat and the prevalence of obesity are lower in poor countries than in affluent countries. However, these contrasts are seriously confounded by differences in physical activity and food availability; within areas of similar economic development, per capita intake of fat and the prevalence of obesity have not been positively correlated. Randomized trials are the preferable method for evaluating the effect of dietary fat on adiposity because they avoid problems of confounding that are difficult to control in other studies. In short-term trials, a small reduction in body weight is typically seen in individuals randomized to diets with a lower percentage of calories from fat. In a meta-analysis of these trials, it was estimated that a decrease in 10% of energy from fat would reduce weight by 16 g d-1, which would correspond to a 9-kg weight loss by 18 months. However, compensatory mechanisms appear to operate because in trials lasting one year or longer, fat consumption within the range of 18-40% of energy has consistently had little, if any, effect on body fatness. Moreover, within the United States (US), a substantial decline in the percentage of energy from fat during the last two decades has corresponded with a massive increase in obesity, and similar trends are occurring in other affluent countries. Diets high in fat do not account for the high prevalence of excess body fat in Western countries; reductions in the percentage of energy from fat will have no important benefits and could further exacerbate this problem. The emphasis on total fat reduction has been a serious distraction in efforts to control obesity and improve health in general.
Polymer/Boron Nitride Nanocomposite Materials for Superior Thermal Transport Performance†

Boron nitride nanosheets were dispersed in polymers to give composite films with excellent thermal transport performances approaching the record values found in polymer/graphene nanocomposites. Similarly high performance at lower BN loadings was achieved by aligning the nanosheets in poly(vinyl alcohol) matrix by simple mechanical stretching (see picture).
The effect of metal foil tape degradation on the long-term reliability of PV modules

A program is underway at Sandia National Laboratories1 to predict long-term reliability of photovoltaic systems. The vehicle for the reliability predictions is a Reliability Block Diagram (RBD), which models system behavior. Because this model is based mainly on field failure and repair times, it cannot currently be used to accurately predict end-of-life. In order to be truly predictive, physics-informed degradation processes and failure mechanisms need to be included in the model. This paper describes accelerated life testing of metal foil tapes used in thin-film PV modules, and how tape joint degradation, a possible failure mode, can be incorporated into the model.
Corrigendum to “Molecular typing and in vitro fluconazole susceptibility of Candida species isolated from diabetic and nondiabetic women with vulvovaginal candidiasis in India” [J Microbiol Immunol Infect 2011;44:166–71]

Ali Abdul Lattif*, Gauranga Mukhopadhyay, Uma Banerjee, Ravinder Goswami and Rajendra Prasad Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA Special Center for Molecular Medicine & School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India All India Institute for Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
Nondestructive measurement of striation defect spacing using laser diffraction

A simple method is presented for measuring the characteristic spacing between striation defects that sometimes develop when coatings are deposited by the spin-coating process. Striation defects, because of their substantial regularity of thickness variation, are able to diffract laser light. By measuring the diffraction angle, it is possible to determine a characteristic spacing that corresponds to the most dominant spatial frequency for the striation defects that have formed. This diffraction technique is compared with other methods for determining the average striation spacing. This noncontact characterization technique may also be applicable to other regularly or quasi-regularly spaced defect structures that appear in coatings or other materials. The limits and accuracy of this technique are discussed in detail.
IgG subclasses in human periodontal disease. I. Distribution and incidence of IgG subclass bearing lymphocytes and plasma cells.

Lymphocyte membrane-associated IgG subclass antibodies in human periodontal disease were studied to ascertain the elative presence of cytophilic IgG antibodies and the membrane Fc receptors which bind them. The experimental approach correlated the efect of incubating gingiva in tissue culture medium to remove cytophilic antibodies with the changes in the number of Fc receptors detectable after washing. The evidence indicated that the majority of lymphocytes in mild gingivitis lesions lacked cytophilic IgG antibodies as well as Fc receptors. IN severe gingivitis, the number of IgG subclass bearing lymphocytes increased to about half of the total lymphoid population, while the perentage of Fc receptor bearing cells remained qite low (12.3%± 3.2, S.E.). The majority of IgG subclass bearing lymphocytes had membrane IgG which serve as receptors for antigen; such cells are classically defined as bone marrow (B) derived lymphocytes and serve as the progenitor for plasma cells. Gingival specimens for patients with periodontitis were found to contain the highest percentage of Fc receptor bearing lymphocytes (38.3%± 12.6 S.E.) and cytophilic IgG antibodies. The findings indicae tha the clinical stages of human perodontal disease are characterized by different populations of infiltrating lymphocytes.
Comment on “Transient kinetics of nucleation and crystallization: Part I. Nucleation” [J. Mater. Res. 6, 2091 (1991)]

Most of the results of a recent paper by Shi and Seinfeld [J. Mater. Res. 6, 2091 (1991)] are documented in literature in a very similar form. Asymptotic formulas of transient nucleation are briefly reviewed and smooth matching of the nucleation and growth regions is discussed.
A topology-preserving level set method for shape optimization

The classical level set method, which represents the boundary of the unknown geometry as the zero-level set of a function, has been shown to be very effective in solving shape optimization problems. The present work addresses the issue of using a level set representation when there are simple geometrical and topological constraints. We propose a logarithmic barrier penalty which acts to enforce the constraints, leading to an approximate solution to shape design problems.
Good books from UNESCO for teachng hydrology

Several reports prepared by The Working Group on Education and Training in Hydrology of the IHD Coordinating Council have only recently become available to be discussed as a unit. These form part of the Unesco series Technical Papers in Hydrology and were prepared by hydrologists from several different countries, all of whom are involved in the academic field.
X-ray Crystallinity of Bleached and Crosslinked Cottons

An X-ray diffractometer was used to study the crystalline structure of cotton fibers after bleaching, crosslinking and a combination of bleaching and crosslinking treatments. Wet crosslinking was a...
Surgical Management of Esophageal Carcinoma

Surgical management of esophageal carcinoma is reviewed. The anatomy and biology are briefly mentioned, since these factors mitigate against the success of surgery. Staging, the key to proper treatment allocation and prognosis, is discussed, including the use of endoscopic ultrasonography, positron emission tomography, and thoracoscopy/laparoscopy. Patient selection and preparation for surgery are important considerations. Surgical techniques are then discussed, as are the advantages and disadvantages of various approaches, the morbidity of surgical resection, survival, and quality-of-life issues. Adjuvant treatment strategies (preoperative radiation, induction chemotherapy, induction chemoradiotherapy, and postoperative treatment) are summarized. The Oncologist 1999;4:95-105
BIBFRAME for Serials: Activities of the UCLA Continuing Resources Study Group

In anticipation of the development and implementation of BIBFRAME, and its implications for continuing resources, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Continuing Resources Study Group has been learning about linked data principles and tools. This column will focus on how the Study Group conducted its internal training and how it is positioning itself to eventually participate in the broader discussion on BIBFRAME.
Physiology of Skeletal Muscle and the Neuromuscular Junction

In order to optimize the use of neuromuscular blockers (see Chap. 19, Neuromuscular Blockade), it is necessary to have a firm understanding of the physiology of skeletal muscle and the neuromuscular junction.
Issues Associated with the Implementation of Governmentwide Performance Monitoring

This paper assesses the effectiveness of government-wide performance monitoring projects in selected North American jurisdictions. Experience seems to suggest that government- wide performance monitoring is more likely to prove effective when it is done in smaller, more homogeneous communities, in which agreement on appropriate outcome measures is easier to attain. Such schemes may also be more effective where the task of selecting outcomes is left to a body that is partly or wholly independent of government. At first, such an arrangement seems one of doubtful legitimacy, particularly if the outcome measures selected are expected to have a real influence on the shape of policy debate. However, an independent body is not constrained by some of the bureaucratic and political considerations that may make it difficult for governments to select a narrow group of outcome measures and report regularly on those measures. In the end, however, even a well-designed performance monitoring scheme may have only a limited impact on internal budgetary decision making or on popular opinion about government priorities.
Treatment options for HBV with co-morbid conditions

The treatment for Hepatitis B viral infection without any co-morbidities is relatively simpler, although the outcome remains suboptimal. However in a large number of these patients, the matter is complicated by co-morbid conditions which exist in these patients and the treatment in such patients has to be tailored to individual settings and demands. All patients of chronic hepatitis B [CHB] must be evaluated for co-morbidities especially those which can complicate treatment. This overview attempts to provide clinicians with guidance for treatment of CHB patients who have coexisting co-morbidities.
Evolution of large and small scale magnetic fields in the sun

This paper will discuss issues relating to the detailed numerical simulation of solar magnetic fields, those on the small scale which are directly observable on the surface, and those on larger scales whose properties must be deduced indirectly from phenomena such as the sunspot cycle. Results of simulations using the ADISM technique will be presented to demonstrate the importance of the treatment of Alfven waves, the boundary conditions, and the statistical evolution of small scale convection with magnetic fields. To study the large scale fields and their time dependence, the magnetic resistivity plays an important role; its use will be discussed in the paper.
Abstract 4989: Conditional NFAT activation promotes prostate oncogenesis through cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous effects.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Although the activation of nuclear factor of activated T Cells (NFAT) has been linked to cellular transformation and its upregulation has been found in multiple tumor types, its potential role in prostate cancer (PCa) is unknown. We have recently found that NFATc1 activation in prostate epithelium results in prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) that progresses to prostate adenocarcinoma in a Doxycycline (Dox)-inducible murine model. The adenocarcinoma primarily consists of Cytokeratin 8 (CK8)+, Androgen receptor (AR)+ luminal epithelial cells and reactive stroma with features similar to the most common types of human PCa. Both cells with NFATc1 activation and neighboring cells without NFATc1 activation have significant upregulation of c-Myc and activation of Stat3. Besides known and suspected NFATc1 targets, such as Spp1, we have revealed the early upregulation of a number of cytokines and cytokine receptors, as key molecular components of an inflammatory and pro-mitogenic microenvironment that promotes both NFATc1+ and NFATc1− cells to participate in tumor formation. Thus, NFATc1 activation has cell autonomous effects on the NFATc1+ cells and non-cell autonomous effects on neighboring cells through secreted factors, resulting in eciprocal prostatic epithelial-stromal interactions for promoting PCa development. Our studies present the first direct in vivo evidence that NFATc1 activation can induce PCa resembling human PCa and provide a versatile platform to further study the pathogenic mechanism of PCa. Citation Format: Kalyan Reddy Manda, Piyush Tripathi, Yinqiu Wang, Peter A. Humphrey, Minggui Pan, Feng Chen. Conditional NFAT activation promotes prostate oncogenesis through cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous effects. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4989. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4989
Perspectives on the Bell System: Strategy, Structure, Technology, and Unionism

Divestiture of the Bell System in 1984 dramatically reversed more than a century of integration, standardization, and centralization. These factors together produced the world's largest corporation (in both assets and work force) which, guided by regulation, managed the world's largest and most effective telecommunications network. Although technology and economics drove these developments, none were inevitable or easily accomplished. All four of the histories reviewed in this essay attest to the gradual, plodding, and often disorderly administrative efforts that produced the Bell System, the telephone network, and the Communications Workers of America (CWA). Yet, the degree of overlap among these four books is surprisingly small: in part because each study is narrowly conceived, and in part because the story itself has epic proportions. Two of the books examine top management's approach to horizontal and vertical integration. The third focuses on the process of technical innovation and its implementation by middle management. The fourth book starts from the bottom up, tracing the evolution of a centralized labor organization. While each book adds a piece to the larger history
Conformational flexibility of xanthene‐based covalently linked dimers

The conformational flexibility of three covalently linked dimers consisting of two xanthene-based moieties connected by a diphenyl ether linker was studied using NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The three dimers interconvert as a function of pH: the doubly cationic dimer (Xan+)2 exists in acidic solutions (pH 3). Each dimer exhibits conformational degrees of freedom associated with rotations of either the xanthene moiety or of the diphenyl ether (DPE) linker. The barriers for rotation of the xanthylium moiety were evaluated using DFT calculations, yielding values of 23 kcal/mol for (Xan+)2 and 11 kcal/mol for (Xan-OH)2, respectively. The rotational barrier for the diphenyl ether linker in Xan+–Xan-OH (15 kcal/mol) was experimentally determined using variable temperature NMR measurements. The relative orientation of the two –OH groups in (Xan-OH)2 diol was investigated in solution and the solid state using NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. The conformer observed in the solid state was found to be the In–Out conformer, while free rotation of the xanthenol units is thought to occur on the NMR timescale at room temperature. These studies are relevant for the design of linkers for efficient water oxidation catalysts. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study on the application of RDT,microscopy examination and PCR on malaria

Objective To compare the sensibility,specificity and consistency among microscopic examination, rapid diagnostic test( RDT) and polymerase chain reaction( PCR) in the diagnosis of malaria,and provide the basis for deciding whether RDT can replace microscopic examination in county level hospitals. Methods 148 suspected and confirmed blood samples,and 148 blood smears were collected and detected by microscopic examination,RDT and PCR from January 2012 to March 2013. Then,all the results were compared in pairs. Results A total of 148 samples were tested. The positive rates of RDT,microscopic examination and PCR were 43. 24%,36. 49% and 37. 84%,respectively. Two plasmodium ovale were detected by microscopic examination and PCR,but not by RDT. Compared to microscopy,the sensitivity of RDT was 100%,specificity 87%,positive predictive value 81%,negative predictive value 100%; Compared to PCR,the sensitivity of RDT was 100%,specificity 89%,positive predictive value 84%,negative predictive value 100%. 16 cases diagnosed as plasmodium vivax were detected by all of the three methods. 48 plasmodium falciparum were detected by RDT,36 plasmodium falciparum were detected by microscopy examination,and 38 detected by PCR. Conclusions The sensitivity and specificity of RDT are very high,and overwhelming majority of p. v and p. f can be detected by RDT. Hence,RDT can totally replace microscopic examination to diagnose malaria in low malaria epidemic period.
Drug therapy in Colonial and Revolutionary America

Drug therapy during the Colonial and Revolutionary War period in America is discussed. Therapy in the 17th and 18th centuries remained largely symptomatic rather than curative. Treatment included such "depletion" measures as purging, sweating, bleeding, blistering and vomiting. Purgatives, emetics, opium, cinchona bark, camphor, potassium nitrate and mercury were among the most widely used drugs. European herbals, dispensatories and textbooks were used in the American colonies, and beginning in the early 18th century, British "patent medicines" were imported. During the Revolutionary War, the supply of drugs from Britain was cut off. The Continental Congress established laboratories and storehouses to serve the needs of the army.
Subaffective disorders: dysthymic, cyclothymic and bipolar II disorders in the "borderline" realm.

High rates of familial affective psychopathology and a high incidence of affective episodes demonstrated in longitudinal clinical studies, along with the results of studies of two recently developed biological markers (delayed escape from dexamethasone suppression and REM latency) provide strong support for a shift in nosologic emphasis from schizophrenic toward affective disorders. Different forms of subaffective disorders are described to illustrate the significant overlap between these disorders and borderline characterologic psychopathology.
Slurm-V: Extending Slurm for Building Efficient HPC Cloud with SR-IOV and IVShmem

To alleviate the cost burden, efficiently sharing HPC cluster resources to end users through virtualization is becoming more and more attractive. In this context, some critical HPC resources among Virtual Machines, such as Single Root I/O Virtualization SR-IOV enabled Virtual Functions VFs and Inter-VM Shared memory IVShmem devices, need to be enabled and isolated to support efficiently running multiple concurrent MPI jobs on HPC clouds. However, original Slurm is not able to supervise VMs and associated critical resources, such as VFs and IVShmem. This paper proposes a novel framework, Slurm-V, which extends Slurm with virtualization-oriented capabilities such as job submission to dynamically created VMs with isolated SR-IOV and IVShmem resources. We propose several alternative designs for Slurm-V: Task-based design, SPANK plugin-based design, and SPANK plugin over OpenStack-based design, to manage and isolate IVShmem and SR-IOV resources for running MPI jobs. We evaluate these designs from aspects of startup performance, scalability, and application performance in different scenarios. The evaluation results show that VM startup time can be reduced by upi¾źto 2.64X through snapshot scheme in Slurm SPANK plugin. Our proposed Slurm-V framework shows good scalability and the ability of efficiently running concurrent MPI jobs on SR-IOV enabled InfiniBand clusters. To the best of our knowledge, Slurm-V is the first attempt to extend Slurm for the support of running concurrent MPI jobs with isolated SR-IOV and IVShmem resources. The capabilities of Slurm-V can be used to build efficient HPC clouds.
Integrated Faculty Course Assessment Report (FCAR) model with traditional rubric-based (GR) model to enhance automation of Student Outcomes evaluation

This workshop presents the latest development in the integration of the two prevailing assessment models, the rubrics-based GR model and the Faculty-Course-Assessment-Report (FCAR) model, to further streamline the process of assessment, evaluation, and generation of action items to close-the-loop for program improvement. It demonstrates ways for faculty involvement in and ownership of the assessment process that will NOT substantially burden the teaching commitment of the faculty. It provides an active question-and-answer session after each sub-topic is presented and discussed. Faculty and program chairs alike will walk away with the know-how on each of their roles and contributions that are required for an effective assessment process.
Centering Predictor Variables in Three-Level Contextual Models

ABSTRACTHierarchical data are becoming increasingly complex, often involving more than two levels. Centering decisions in multilevel models are closely tied to substantive hypotheses and require researchers to be clear and cautious about their choices. This study investigated the implications of group mean centering (i.e., centering within context; CWC) and grand mean centering (CGM) of predictor variables in three-level contextual models. The goals were to (a) determine equivalencies in the means and variances across the centering options and (b) use the algebraic relationships between the centering choices to clarify the interpretation of the estimated parameters. We provide recommendations to assist the researcher in making centering decisions for analysis of three-level contextual models
The salivary gland as a target for enhancing immunization response

An organism’s immune response to a vaccine is dependent on a number of factors, including the site of immunization. While muscle is the most common site for vaccine administration, other sites, including the salivary gland, are poised to confer stronger and broader immunoprotection. Studies exploring the salivary gland as an immunization site have involved protein antigens, as well as live pathogens and DNA vaccines. While intraductal instillation of protein antigens into the salivary gland may result in a relatively transient increase in antibody production, DNA or attenuated pathogen vaccination appear to confer a lasting widespread mucosal immune response that includes robust salivary and enteric IgA, as well as high levels of circulating IgG. Furthermore, vaginal and lung antibodies are also seen. For enteric pathogens, a common class of pathogen encountered by travelers, this type of immune response provides for a level of redundant protection against foreign microbes with mucosal targets. The strength of immune response conferred by salivary gland vaccination is generally stronger than that seen in response to the same vaccine at a comparison site. For example, where other routes fail, immunization of the salivary gland has been shown to confer protection in lethal challenge models of infectious pathogens. A host of vaccines currently under development suffer from immunogenicity challenges, adding to the widespread interest and search for novel routes and adjuvants. With its capability to facilitate a strong and broad immune response, the salivary gland warrants consideration as an immunization site, especially for vaccines with immunogenicity challenges, as well as vaccines that would benefit from combined systemic and mucosal immunity.
White Collar Shortcuts

In the aftermath of financial and corporate frauds, aggressive government policy is apparent. But while touting a crackdown to correct past prosecution failures, one sees the government using shortcuts in both agency policy and prosecutorial practices. These shortcuts can be seen in the investigative, charging, and plea areas. There is an increased use of search warrants, wiretaps and failures to adhere to criminal discovery obligations. So too, one sees the government charging shortcut offenses such as perjury, obstruction of justice and false statements as opposed to the underlying conduct that was initially being investigated. Taking advantage of over-federalization and over-criminalization is seen in the stacking of multiple charges, tacking on conspiracy and money-laundering offenses, and in adding new plea waivers to secure finality of all issues and avoid future litigation. While these aggressive policy moves may seem efficient, the use of shortcuts has serious consequences that undermine deterrence and legitimacy in the criminal justice process.
Dead-band vs. machine-learning control systems: Analysis of control benefits and energy efficiency

Abstract In residential and commercial buildings, thermostat controllers have been typically utilized to maintain room temperature near desired set-point. Recently, advanced computing and statistical technologies, such as Fuzzy Inference System (FIS) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) algorithms, were introduced to complement the control performance for optimal energy use in building thermal systems. However, most schemes were developed to control fuel use or fan motor speed in a plant or a system, and showed some disadvantages to immediately respond to sensitive changes in thermal demands for a zone scaled level. This paper introduces heating energy models capable of controlling the amount of supply air and its temperature simultaneously, and the FIS and ANN algorithms are developed to control the optimal supply air conditions for a heating season. Both the FIS and ANN models are compared to thermostat controllers with 4-step dead-band setups from normal to sensitive levels. The sum of errors, caused by the difference between desired set-point and controlled room temperatures, and the amount of energy supply are used to define control precision and energy efficiency of the control models. From the simulation results, the machine-learning based ANN controller averagely reduces control errors by 88% and mitigates increases in energy consumption by 2% in comparison with thermostat on/off controllers. The control system can be effective when various sensitive settings are required as a type of buildings and rooms without an excessive increase in energy use.