Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Saccharomyces uvarum mannoproteins stimulate a humoral immune response in mice

Yeasts discarded in industrial processes can be used as a nutritional supplement and to extract cellular components with biotechnological aims. In this study, the humoral immune response of Swiss mice treated with mannoproteins (MP) from the yeast Saccharomyces uvarum was evaluated. The mice were treated with MPs at different doses and times and inoculated with 2% sheep red blood cells. An increase in total Ig in mice treated with 100 μg of MP at the time of immunization or 24 h before was observed in the primary immune response; in the secondary immune response, an increase was observed in total Ig values for all groups, and an increase of IgG was observed in the mice treated with MPs (100 μg) at the time of immunization or 24 h before. These results show that S. uvarum MPs present an immunostimulatory action on the humoral immune response in mice.
Regional distribution of folate in human brain

LITTLE is known about the role of folate in nervous tissue, although it may be involved in nucleic acid synthesis (HALTIA, 1970), methylation of monoamines (LADURON. 1972) or synaptic events (BRIDGERS & MCCLAIN, 1972). Moreover, there has been no report on regional distribution of folate in human brain. We determined the concentration of folate in 22 parts of human brain obtained at autopsy, since the knowledge of regional distribution is necessary as a first step to an insight into some important roles of folate in brain function. This study disclosed that there were remarkable differences in the folate level among various structures in human brain.
An extension of the omega method to primary and tertiary creep of lead-free solders

A close examination of creep curves for Sn-based solders shows that steady-state creep is an ill-defined stage and that primary and tertiary creeps are both significant. In order to account for these effects in solder constitutive models, this paper presents a phenomenological model that predicts entire creep curves for Sn-based solders. The proposed constitutive model is an extension of the omega method by Prager (2000) for tertiary creep of steel alloys to primary and tertiary creep of Sn-based solders. The new creep modeling approach is of use for stress/strain and reliability analysis of lead-free solder joints.
Insect growth regulators: laboratory and field evaluations of Thompson-Hayward TH-6040 against the house fly and the stable fly.

In the laboratory, the insect growth regulator, Thompson-Hayward TH-6040, ( N -(4-chlorophenyl)-N′-(2,6-difluorobenzoyl)-urea), prevented the emergence of the house fly, Musca domestica L. , and the stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.), when it was applied topically at a rate of 1 mg/ft2 of surface breeding area. In a cattle feedlot and at a waste water treatment plant, TH-6040 applied to the surface of the breeding area at a rate of 50 mg/ft2 gave 90% control of house flies. The TH-6040 apparently is effective only by ingestion. The IGR caused a disruption in the cuticle formation of the house fly and the stable fly during larval-pupal metamorphosis.
Involvement of the MN blood group antigen in shear-enhanced hemagglutination induced by the Escherichia coli F41 adhesin

An adhesin from Escherichia coli F41 with an apparent subunit molecular weight of 28,000 daltons was isolated by using (NH4)2SO4 precipitation at pH 10 and Sephacryl S-500 gel filtration. The hemagglutination (HA) properties of the native high-molecular-weight adhesin were studied by using a viscometric assay, which provided a quantitative index of the degree of agglutination present as a function of time at a known rate of shear. Shear was found to enhance the degree of agglutination over a 20-min period. A strong, shear-enhanced HA was observed for all donors with the MM or MN blood type studied, but those with the NN blood type showed very little HA. In the microtiter HA assay, the selectivity of the adhesin for MM over NN erythrocytes was found to be dependent on pH and temperature. At 21 degrees C and pH 7.4, there was little difference in HA between the two blood types, but NN cells were progressively more weakly agglutinated than MM cells as the pH or the temperature was increased. Glycophorin A, which bears the M or N determinant, was isolated from individuals with the MM and NN blood types and was shown to be an effective inhibitor of the reaction, with the MM type being the more effective in both microtiter and viscometric assays. Acidic monosaccharides, particularly sialic acid, were also effective inhibitors of HA, although they were less potent on a molar basis than glycophorin. The adsorption isotherm of 125I-labeled adhesin was measured, and the binding was shown to be strongly inhibited by MM glycophorin and somewhat less strongly by NN glycophorin. Collectively, these data strongly suggest that glycophorin AM is a receptor for the F41 adhesin.
On quantum error-correction by classical feedback in discrete time

We consider the problem of correcting the errors incurred from sending quantum information through a noisy quantum environment by using classical information obtained from a measurement on the environment. For discrete time Markovian evolutions, in the case of fixed measurement on the environment, we give criteria for quantum information to be perfectly corrigible and characterize the related feedback. Then we analyze the case when perfect correction is not possible and, in the qubit case, we find optimal feedback maximizing the channel fidelity.
Evaluating genetic diversity and constructing core collections of Chinese Lentinula edodes cultivars using ISSR and SRAP markers

Genetic diversity among 89 Chinese Lentinula edodes cultivars was analyzed by inter‐simple sequence repeat (ISSR) and sequence‐related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers. A 123 out of 126 ISSR loci (97.62%) and 108 out of 129 SRAP loci (83.73%) were polymorphic between two or more strains. A dendrogram constructed by cluster analysis based on the ISSR and SRAP markers separated the L. edodes strains into two major groups, of which group B was further divided into five subgroups. Clustering results also showed a positive correlation with the main agronomic traits of the strains, and that strains with similar traits clustered together into the same groups or subgroups in most cases. The average coefficient of pairwise genetic similarity was 0.820 (range: 0.576–0.988). Compared to the wild strains, Chinese L. edodes cultivars indicated a lower level of genetic diversity. Two preliminary core collections of L. edodes, Core1 and Core2, were established based on the ISSR and SRAP data, respectively. Core1 was constructed by the advanced M (maximization) strategy using the PowerCore version 1.0 software and contained 21 strains, whereas Core2 was created by the allele preferred sampling strategy using the cluster method and contained 18 strains. Both core collections were highly representative of the genetic diversity of the original germplasm, as confirmed by the values of Na (observed number of alleles), Ne (effective number of alleles), H (Nei's gene diversity) and I (Shannon's information index), as well as results of principal coordinate analysis. The loci retention ratio of Core1 (99.61%) was higher than that of Core2 (97.65%). Moreover, Core1 contained strains with more types of agronomic traits than those in Core2. This study builds the basis for further effective protection, management and use of L. edodes germplasm resource.
Cell Cycle Regulation of DNA Replication Initiator Factor Dbf4p

ABSTRACT The precise duplication of eukaryotic genetic material takes place once and only once per cell cycle and is dependent on the completion of the previous mitosis. Two evolutionarily conserved kinases, the cyclin B (Clb)/cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk/Cdc28p) and Cdc7p along with its interacting factor Dbf4p, are required late in G1 to initiate DNA replication. We have determined that the levels of Dbf4p are cell cycle regulated. Dbf4p levels increase as cells begin S phase and remain high through late mitosis, after which they decline dramatically as cells begin the next cell cycle. We report that Dbf4p levels are sensitive to mutations in key components of the anaphase-promoting complex (APC). In addition, Dbf4p is modified in response to DNA damage, and this modification is dependent upon the DNA damage response pathway. We had previously shown that Dbf4p interacts with the M phase polo-like kinase Cdc5p, a key regulator of the APC late in mitosis. These results further link the actions of the initiator protein, Dbf4p, to the completion of mitosis and suggest possible roles for Dbf4p during progression through mitosis.
and Soft Tissue Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction on the Tibial Side Biomechanical Comparison of Interference Screws and Combination Screw and Sheath Devices for

http://ajs.sagepub. com/content/41/4/841 The online version of this article can be found at: DOI: 10.1177/0363546512474968 2013 41: 841 originally published online February 12, 2013 Am J Sports Med Coen A. Wijdicks Cathrine Aga, Matthew T. Rasmussen, Sean D. Smith, Kyle S. Jansson, Robert F. LaPrade, Lars Engebretsen and Soft Tissue Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction on the Tibial Side Biomechanical Comparison of Interference Screws and Combination Screw and Sheath Devices for
Marketing's Credibility: A Longitudinal Investigation of Marketing Communication Productivity and Shareholder Value

Practitioners and scholars have questioned marketing communication's credibility because it has not been linked to firm shareholder value. Using secondary longitudinal data, the authors show that the impact of marketing communication productivity (MCP) on shareholder value is positive and nonlinear. In particular, the influence of MCP on the forward-looking performances of Tobin's q and stock return is curvilinear with an inverted U shape. The authors also investigate the moderating role of research-and-development investment and competitive intensity. The findings have implications for marketing managers regarding how to model and benchmark MCP and the dangers of blindly improving the productivity of advertising and sales promotion expenditures.
Myocardial bridges and their relationship to the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery.

OBJECTIVE To analyze the relationship between myocardial bridges and the anterior interventricular branch (anterior descending) of the left coronary artery. METHODS The study was carried out with postmortem material, and methods of dissection and observation were used. We assessed the perimeter of the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery using a pachymeter, calculated its proximal and distal diameters in relation to the myocardial bridge, and also its diameter under the myocardial bridge in 30 hearts. We also observed the position of the myocardial bridge in relation to the origin of the anterior interventricular branch. RESULTS The diameters of the anterior interventricular branch were as follows: the mean proximal diameter was 2.76+/-0.76 mm; the mean diameter under the myocardial bridge was 2.08+/-0.54 mm; and the mean distal diameter was 1.98+/-0.59 mm. In 33.33% (10/30) of the cases, the diameter of the anterior interventricular branch under the myocardial bridge was lower than the diameter of the anterior interventricular branch distal to the myocardial bridge. In 3.33% (1/30) of the cases, an atherosclerotic plaque was found in the segment under the myocardial bridge. The myocardial bridge was located in the middle third of the anterior interventricular branch in 86.66% (26/30) of the cases. CONCLUSION Myocardial bridges are more frequently found in the middle third of the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery. The diameter of the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery under the myocardial bridge may be smaller than after the bridge. Myocardial bridges may not provide protection against the formation of atherosclerotic plaque inside the anterior interventricular branch of the left coronary artery.
Intra-erythrocytic location of Colorado tick fever virus.

Summary Although previous studies have shown that Colorado tick fever virus occurs only transiently in the serum, but persists for prolonged periods in the blood cell fraction of man and experimental animals, the exact nature of this cell-associated viraemia was unknown. Using virus isolation, fluorescent antibody staining, histological and electron-microscopic techniques, we have shown that persistent viraemia is predominantly due to virus contained within erythrocytes. Erythrocyte precursor cells are presumably infected in the bone marrow and are subsequently released into the blood stream, persisting for prolonged periods despite the presence of serum antibody. Virus either continues to replicate slowly or is stabilized and remains viable within the erythrocyte. Colorado tick fever virus may be a useful model virus for further study of the mechanism of blood cell infection, with implications for other arboviruses or viruses believed to be involved in leukaemia or other haematological disorders.
Recent advances in vaccine development for herpes simplex virus types I and II

Despite recent advances in vaccine design and strategies, latent infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV) remains a formidable challenge. Approaches involving live-attenuated viruses and inactivated viral preparations were popular throughout the twentieth century. In the past ten years, many vaccine types, both prophylactic or therapeutic, have contained a replication-defective HSV, viral DNA or glycoproteins. New research focused on the mechanism of immune evasion by the virus has involved developing vaccines with various gene deletions and manipulations combined with the use of new and more specific adjuvants. In addition, new “prime-boost” methods of strengthening the vaccine efficacy have proven effective, but there have also been flaws with some recent strategies that appear to have compromised vaccine efficacy in humans. Given the complicated lifecycle of HSV and its unique way of spreading from cell-to-cell, it can be concluded that the development of an ideal vaccine needs new focus on cell-mediated immunity, better understanding of the latent viral genome and serious consideration of gender-based differences in immunity development among humans. This review summarizes recent developments made in the field and sheds light on some potentially new ways to conquer the problem including development of dual-action prophylactic microbicides that prohibit viral entry and, in addition, induce a strong antigen response.
Promiscuous affairs of PKB/AKT isoforms in metabolism

The protein kinase B (PKB) family encompasses three isoforms; PKBα (AKT1), PKBβ (AKT2) and PKBγ (AKT3). PKBα and PKBβ but not PKBγ, are prominently expressed in classical insulin-sensitive tissues like liver, muscle and fat. Transgenic mice deficient for PKBα, PKBβ or PKBγ have been analysed to study the roles of PKB isoforms in metabolic regulation. Until recently, only loss of PKBβ was reported to result in metabolic disorders, especially insulin resistance, in humans and mice. However, a new study has shown that PKBα-deficient mice can show enhanced glucose tolerance accompanied by improved β-cell function and higher insulin sensitivity in adipocytes. These findings prompted us to review the relevant literature on the regulation of glucose metabolism by PKB isoforms in liver, skeletal muscle, adipocytes and pancreas.
Th9 and allergic disease

Helper CD4+ T‐cell subsets have improved our understanding of adaptive immunity in humans and in animal models of disease. These include T helper type 1 (Th1), Th2 and the interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) ‐producing population ‘Th17’. Th2 cells have been described as orchestrating the immune response in allergic disease based on studies with patient samples and animal models. The cytokine IL‐9 has largely been regarded as a Th2 cytokine that makes multifocal contributions to allergic disease. Recent data suggest that under certain conditions relevant to chronic disease (IL‐4 and transforming growth factor‐β), a distinct population of IL‐9‐producing ‘Th9’ helper T cells can exist. The contribution of Th9 cells in allergic disease is currently unknown, and this review will propose a model for how these cells may regulate chronic allergic inflammation.
A Comparison of the Effect of Single-Sex Versus Mixed-Sex Classes on Middle School Student Achievement

A Comparison of the Effect of Single-Sex Versus Mixed-Sex Classes on Middle School Student Achievement The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of single-sex versus mixedsex classes on middle school student achievement. It was a case study of Stonewall Jackson Middle School in Charleston, West Virginia, an inner-city school with approximately 600 students, of which 30% were minority (mostly black), 30% were special needs, and 70% were classified low socio-economic status (SES). Student WESTEST (West Virginia Educational Standards Test) scores in reading/language arts and math were collected and compared from the school years 2003-2004 and 2004-2005. Each student’s scores from the first year were compared to that same student’s scores from the second year. Each student in the first year (2003-2004) was in mixed-sex classes and each student in the second year (2004-2005) was in single-sex classes. Two hundred seventy nine matched pairs of scores were compared. An alpha level of . 05 was set as the criterion for the level of significance. A paired-samples T-test was used to determine whether the difference between the means was statistically significant. Student groups studied were male/female; black/white; low/high SES; and general education/special education. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine whether there were differences between groups. A . 01 level of significance was found for both reading/language arts and math between mixed-sex and single-sex classes. No significance was found for the between group improvement scores. Results of this study provide support for using single-sex classes to improve the academic achievement of middle school students.
A simple bedside test for upper extremity impairment after stroke: Validation of the Utrecht Arm/Hand Test

Purpose. To examine the intra- and inter-rater reliability, criterion validity and responsiveness of the Utrecht Arm/hand Test (UAT), a quick and easy assessment method for upper extremity impairment after stroke. Method. Study 1 (N = 29): Repeated administration of the UAT at admission and discharge; comparison with scores on the Fugl-Meyer test (FM), Action Research Arm test (ARA) and Self-Care scale of the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Study 2 (N = 192): Admission of the UAT and Frenchay Arm Test at admission (FAT) and discharge. Computation of Spearman correlations between UAT and FAT and comparison of the Effect Size and the Standardised Response Mean of both measures. Results. Study 1: Spearman correlations between UAT and FM were 0.93 at admission and 0.94 at discharge. Correlations with ARA and FIM were also high: 0.90 and 0.76 at admission, and 0.89 and 0.73 at discharge. Inter-rater and intra-rater reliability were excellent (weighted κ 0.98–0.99). Study 2: Correlations between UAT and FAT were 0.93 at admission and 0.90 at discharge. The mean UAT score improved from 3.7 at admission up to 4.6 at discharge (p < 0.001). The Effect Size and Standardised Response Mean of the UAT were better than those of the FAT. Conclusion. The UAT is a simple, valid and reliable bedside test for the evaluation of upper extremity impairment after stroke.
CHRONIC MECHANICAL LOWER BACK PAIN

♦ Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery, Dept of Neurosurgery, Hahnemann University Hospital, Drexel College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA ◊ University Neurosurgical Pain Clinic, Philadelphia, PA, USA ________________________________________________________________________ OBJECTIVE: To determine the significance of facet joint arthropathy (FJA) in chronic mechanical lower back pain (CMLBP) and the role of discopathy in CMLBP.
Nonlinear effects on migration of charged spherical rigid/soft particle in an unbounded electrolyte solution

In this paper we have studied the migration of a colloidal particle under the influence of an external electric field in an electrolyte solution. The colloidal particle is considered to be rigid or a composite particle. The composite particle, the “soft particle”, consist an inner hard core coated with a concentric porous layer containing uniformly distributed fixed charges. Situations in which the particle translates along the direction of the imposed electric field with electrophoretic velocity as well as velocity higher than that, is considered. The nonlinear electrokinetic motion and forces experienced by the particle is evaluated through solving the Navier-Stokes, Nernst-Planck and Poisson equations. A pressure correction based iterative algorithm is adopted for the numerical computations. The effect of nonlinear inertial terms in Navier-Stokes equations on the polarization of the EDL and ion distribution near the particle is analyzed. The dependence of hydrodynamic drag and electrostatic force experienced by the particle under several flow conditions is studied. Our results show that as the particle velocity rises from its electrophoretic velocity the hydrodynamic drag gradually approaches the Stokes drag and the electric force diminishes. At large translational speed of the particle, the net charge distribution around the particle is governed by both diffusion and advection mechanisms.
The history of tuberculosis: from the first historical records to the isolation of Koch's bacillus

Summary Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious, infectious disease, due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MT) that has always been a permanent challenge over the course of human history, because of its severe social implications. It has been hypothesized that the genus Mycobacterium originated more than 150 million years ago. In the Middle Ages, scrofula, a disease affecting cervical lymph nodes, was described as a new clinical form of TB. The illness was known in England and France as "king's evil", and it was widely believed that persons affected could heal after a royal touch. In 1720, for the first time, the infectious origin of TB was conjectured by the English physician Benjamin Marten, while the first successful remedy against TB was the introduction of the sanatorium cure. The famous scientist Robert Koch was able to isolate the tubercle bacillus and presented this extraordinary result to the society of Physiology in Berlin on 24 March 1882. In the decades following this discovery, the Pirquet and Mantoux tuberculin skin tests, Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin BCG vaccine, Selman Waksman streptomycin and other anti-tuberculous drugs were developed.