Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Interleukin 4 suppresses interleukin 2 and interferon gamma production by naive T cells stimulated by accessory cell-dependent receptor engagement.

Interleukin 2 (IL-2) and interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) production by CD4+ T cells and IFN-gamma production by CD8+ T cells from naive mice in response to soluble anti-CD3 and antigen-presenting cells (APCs) were strikingly inhibited by culture in the presence of IL-4. IL-4 decreased IL-2 and IFN-gamma mRNA levels after 15-24 hr but gave relatively little decrease in these mRNAs at 6-12 hr after stimulation with soluble anti-CD3. A 16-hr preculture of T cells with anti-CD3, APCs, and IL-4 was sufficient to inhibit subsequent production of IL-2 and IFN-gamma in response to restimulation in the absence of IL-4. Furthermore, IL-4 treatment of T cells purified 24 hr after stimulation inhibited their capacity to subsequently produce IL-2 in response to anti-CD3 and APCs, indicating that T cells were targets of IL-4-mediated inhibition. IL-4 blocked acute IL-2 production in response to a cytochrome c peptide of T cells derived from transgenic mice expressing T-cell receptors specific for cytochrome c but it did not block IL-2 production by such cells after they had been primed in vitro. Nor did IL-4 inhibit production of IFN-gamma by cloned T cells in response to antigen and APCs or production of IL-2 and IFN-gamma by naive T cells in response to phorbol ester and calcium ionophore. These results indicate that IL-4 strikingly inhibits IL-2 and IFN-gamma production by naive T cells in response to accessory cell-dependent, receptor-mediated stimulation (i.e., soluble anti-CD3 and APCs or antigen and APCs) but does not inhibit accessory cell-independent stimulation of naive T cells or accessory cell-dependent receptor-mediated stimulation of recently primed T cells or cloned T-cell lines.
Employee performance management and control in Africa : the case of a development organisation in Uganda

It is generally agreed that the most widely used management theories originate in the ‘West’, and that the developing world needs to adopt these theories if it is to promote efficient management. But are ‘Western’ approaches being wholly embraced by Africa-based organisations? Some authors claim that ‘Western’ ideologies, a legacy of colonisation, are the main influence on management practice in developing countries. However, others argue that these ideologies are alien to traditional African culture and in fact make operations less efficient. Thus, it has been suggested that organisations should either employ a combination of ‘Western’ and traditional practices, or they should stick with purely indigenous management approaches such as Ubuntu, which implies that communal interests are above those of the individual and that human existence is dependent on interaction with others. These arguments have been developed from research drawing mainly on data generated through surveys and/or interviews with managers in Africa. This study used a grounded theory approach and applied a combination of ethnographic techniques to contribute to existing literature by exploring employees’ perspectives on what happens in practice in terms of performance management and control. The inquiry adopted an interpretivist and neo-empiricist stance in the belief that this would best allow me to reflexively access and interpret the behaviour of participants. Generally, the design of the formal guidelines in the case study organisation reflected ‘Western’ ideas, though their implementation was largely dependent on informal relationships that reflected African communitarian values. This discovery helps to elucidate the role that ‘Western management’ approaches played in a development organisation in Uganda. The study also provides methodological insights into the reflexive collection and analysis of data on ‘management in Africa’.
On the role of budgetary policy during demographic changes.

"The paper investigates the relationship between old age income maintenance and budgetary policy when a growing proportion of the population is retired. Special attention is paid to the different kinds of adjustment required under pay-as-you-go (PAYG) and fully-funded (FF) pension schemes. The paper shows that FF schemes reach spontaneously a new equilibrium while PAYG systems need policy action. With reference to PAYG systems, the paper shows that the tax increase called for by most governments is appropriate in the short-run, when the dependency ratio plays a dominant role. In the long-run, however, the increase in the tax rate is smaller, as the effects of the changes in the dependency ratio is offset by the lower need of public savings required for financing capital accumulation. " The geographical focus is on developed countries.
The Role of Carotid Plaque Vulnerability and Inflammation in the Pathogenesis of Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background:Increasing evidences show that disruption of carotid plaque followed by arterio-arterial thromboembolism is an important mechanism in the generation of ischemic stroke. Inflammatory mechanisms play a key role in transforming structurally vulnerable plaques into functionally unstable ones. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the roles of carotid plaque vulnerability and inflammation in the pathogenesis of acute ischemic stroke. Methods:Fifty-two patients with acute ischemic stroke affecting the anterior circulation (stroke group) and 44 with asymptomatic carotid stenosis (asymptomatic group) were investigated. Duplex ultrasonography was used to evaluate the characteristics of carotid plaque and grading the degree of carotid stenosis. Plaque echogenicity was assessed as echolucent, predominantly echolucent, predominantly echogenic, or echogenic. Plaque surface was classified as smooth, irregular, or ulcerated. All subjects had duplex-determined 50% to 99% carotid stenosis. Serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1), soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were measured. Results:Plaques in the stroke group were echolucent or predominantly echolucent, whereas those of the asymptomatic group were predominantly echogenic or echogenic plaques (P < 0.05). Irregular and ulcerated plaques were frequently found in stroke patients, while smooth plaques were frequently detected in asymptomatic patients (P < 0.05). Serum levels of MMP-9, sCD40L, hsCRP were higher in stroke than in asymptomatic patients. By contrast, serum TIMP-1 levels were significantly higher in the asymptomatic than in the stroke group. Conclusions:The results suggest that inflammation plays a crucial role in carotid plaque vulnerability and, together with carotid plaque morphology, in the pathogenesis of acute ischemic stroke.
The political ontology of collaborative water governance

ABSTRACT This article examines the various definitions of, and analytical approaches to, collaborative water governance (CWG). While the concept’s usage has increased over the past decade, there lacks any deep engagement with the concept of the political at the heart of CWG. This article argues that contemporary approaches to CWG risk emptying the concept of its utility and coherence. Correcting this deficiency requires a focus on the social and ideational constructions of water. This will strengthen future collaborative water arrangements and enable deeper appreciation of the ways the political makes and remakes what is possible in water governance.
Epigenetics and Imprinted Genes: Insights from the Imprinted Gnas Locus

The hallmarks of epigenetics – the memory of defining earlier developmental events and the distinction of active and inactive genes – are exemplified by imprinted genes. In this article, I shall consider the imprinted Gnas locus in some detail. Gnas encodes the stimulatory G-protein subunit, Gsα, an essential intermediate between receptor coupling and cyclic adenosine monophosphate generation. It provides an excellent illustration of the pleiotropic effects of imprinted genes, particularly on skeletal growth and metabolism, and is a powerful example of the conflicting effects of imprinted genes with opposing patterns of imprinting. I shall describe the effects of Gsα deficiency in humans and the knowledge gained from genetic manipulation in the mouse. Finally, given the pervasive effects of imprinted genes, I shall discuss the likelihood that epigenetic deregulation, for example of imprinted genes, could contribute to the developmental programming of chronic adult diseases.
A unified energy efficiency and spectral efficiency tradeoff for mobile cloud computing in OFDM-based networks

Cloud computing can improve the computing ability of mobile terminals. However, offloading is not always energy-saving compared to local computation. In order to further improve the battery lifetime, trade-off between energy efficiency and spectral efficiency in transmitting is considered, we propose a transmission strategy to decide whether to offloading or not. This strategy focuses on the energy efficiency (EE)-spectral efficiency (SE) tradeoff to make more effective use of the limited resources. Compared to previous studies about the tradeoff between EE and SE, the objective of this paper treats EE and SE as one joint optimization function. constraint condition. We firstly prove the properties of RE in orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM)-based networks and derive its optimal solution, then apply this optimization strategy in cloud computing. Simulation results confirm the analytical properties and show the advantage of tradeoff scheme compared with EE-based or SE-based design.
Genetic and archaeological perspectives on the initial modern human colonization of southern Asia

It has been argued recently that the initial dispersal of anatomically modern humans from Africa to southern Asia occurred before the volcanic “supereruption” of the Mount Toba volcano (Sumatra) at ∼74,000 y before present (B.P.)—possibly as early as 120,000 y B.P. We show here that this “pre-Toba” dispersal model is in serious conflict with both the most recent genetic evidence from both Africa and Asia and the archaeological evidence from South Asian sites. We present an alternative model based on a combination of genetic analyses and recent archaeological evidence from South Asia and Africa. These data support a coastally oriented dispersal of modern humans from eastern Africa to southern Asia ∼60–50 thousand years ago (ka). This was associated with distinctively African microlithic and “backed-segment” technologies analogous to the African “Howiesons Poort” and related technologies, together with a range of distinctively “modern” cultural and symbolic features (highly shaped bone tools, personal ornaments, abstract artistic motifs, microblade technology, etc.), similar to those that accompanied the replacement of “archaic” Neanderthal by anatomically modern human populations in other regions of western Eurasia at a broadly similar date.
Demand response program evaluation for plugin hybrid electric vehicles purchase encouragement

The rate of using plugin hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) will be increased in near future in Iran. In the present article, a comparison between existing electricity pricing method (BR) and time of use (TOU) demand response program was made in order to study whether consumers would be motivated purchasing PHEVs or not. The total monthly electricity consumption and the monthly electricity bill utilizing both methods are calculated. Aimed at economic viability evaluation, rate of return (ROR) and net present value (NPV) are calculated in different cases. A motivating loan is entered to cost and benefit analysis and further economic analysis is made.
The sensitivity of acoustic cough recording relative to intraesophageal pressure recording and patient report during reflux testing

One of the primary indications for reflux testing with multichannel intraluminal impedance with pH (pH‐MII) is to correlate reflux events with symptoms such as cough. Adult and pediatric studies have shown, using cough as a model, that patient report of symptoms is inaccurate. Unfortunately, intraesophageal pressure recording (IEPR) to record coughs is more invasive which limits its utility in children. The primary aim of this study was to validate the use of acoustic cough recording (ACR) during pH‐MII testing.
A new approach for improving the birefringence analysis of dental enamel mineral content using polarizing microscopy

The main problem in interpreting birefringence of dental enamel under polarizing microscopy is the lack of physical constants able to allow the Wiener equation to be applied directly to the composition of such tissue. The present study introduces a new approach to circumvent this constraint. Because the nonmineral phase of enamel is heterogeneous, its refractive index can be computed in terms of its components (namely, water, which is partially replaced by the immersion medium, and organic matter), thereby providing a more acceptable refractive index to be used in the Wiener equation. Furthermore, the enamel mineral volume is ordinarily calculated on the basis of the density 3.15 g cm−3. The density 2.99 g cm−3 has been, however, reported to be more accurate for enamel hydroxyapatite, so enamel mineral volumes from selected published data were converted using such a density. The birefringence of mature enamel computed by the Wiener equation, taking into account the above refinements, matched, for the first time, published experimental birefringence values. The theoretical water and organic contents were also consistent with published experimental data. Thus, a direct application of the Wiener equation to the enamel composition has now been achieved. It is speculated that quantitative data on the mineral, the water and the organic contents of mature dental enamel can be derived from interpretation of birefringence in two immersion media (obtained before and after extraction of the organic matter) with this new approach.
Reversal of Rigidity and Improvement in Motor Performance by Subthalamic High‐frequency Stimulation in MPTP‐treated Monkeys

In Parkinson's disease the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra is associated with global disorganization of basal ganglia activity and, in particular, with increased activity of the excitatory glutamatergic neurons of the subthalamic nucleus. Recent experimental studies have shown that parkinsonian symptoms can be alleviated by selective lesioning of the subthalamic nucleus in monkeys treated with 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). We measured the effect of high‐frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus in two unilaterally MPTP‐treated monkeys in order to determine whether it was possible to obtain reversible, gradual and controllable functional impairment of this structure. Clinical, mechanographic and electromyographic results demonstrate that this technique can alleviate parkinsonian rigidity and bradykinesia without causing dyskinesia or hemiballismus. This study supports the hypothesis that the subthalamic nucleus and its excitatory projections have an important role in the mechanisms sustaining the expression of parkinsonian motor changes, and suggests that high‐frequency stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus could be included in treatment for parkinsonism.
MONITORING THE SPREAD OF RABBIT HEMORRHAGIC DISEASE VIRUS AS A NEW BIOLOGICAL AGENT FOR CONTROL OF WILD EUROPEAN RABBITS IN AUSTRALIA

Following the escape to the mainland of the rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) from Wardang Island off the coast of South Australia, a monitoring program was implemented over a 13 mo period, between October 1995 and October 1996 to determine the activity and rate of spread of the disease in the wild European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) population. All reports of dead rabbits were investigated. Whenever possible, liver and spleen tissue samples were collected from fresh carcasses and subsequently analysed for the presence of RHDV. Maximum rates of spread of rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHD) in Australia ranged from 9 km/mo during summer to 414 km/mo in spring. New cases of RHD were moderate during late autumn and winter and peaked in spring. In summer the disease was rarely reported.
Antibiotic prophylaxis of carriers of sulfadiazine-resistant meningococci.

Meningococcal meningitis, a continuing source of concern to all physicians, is especially respected by those caring for military populations. During World War I, 2466 military personnel with meningococcal disease were admitted to hospitals within the continental United States and suffered a 33*^ fatality rate (Daniels, 1950). With the advent of sulfonamide therapy the prognosis during World War 11 became less
Monitoring Corruptible Politicians

Does monitoring corrupt activities induce a sustained reduction in corruption? Using longitudinal data on audits of municipal governments in Puerto Rico, we show corruption is considerably lower in municipalities with timely audits—before elections. However, these municipalities do not exhibit decreased levels of corruption in subsequent audits, even while mayors in these benefit from higher reelection rates. Our results suggest that audits enable voters to select responsive but corruptible politicians to office. Audit programs must disseminate results when they are most relevant for voters—shortly before an election—and ensure that these programs are sustained, long-term commitments.
Business Groups, Networks, And Embeddedness: Innovation And Implementation Alliances In Japanese Electronics, 1985-1998

This paper examines the changing process of strategic alliance formation in the Japanese electronics industry between 1985 and 1998. With data on 123-135 Japanese electronics/electrical machinery makers, we use a dyad panel regression methodology to address a series of hypotheses drawn largely from embeddedness theory on how the firms’ horizontal and vertical keiretsu business group affiliations and prior alliance networks supported and constrained partner choice in new RD the “preburst” period) keiretsu served as infrastructure or platform for new strategic alliances that had both innovation and implementation goals. In the second half of our series (1992-98, the “postbubble” period) the keiretsu effects on innovation alliance formation were gone, but the groups’ role in nonR&D or implementation alliances, the purpose of which was often cost reduction, had expanded. Our results suggest that Japanese electronics firms over this interval of time adapted rationally to the heightened uncertainty and stringency of the Japanese domestic economic environment by searching outside their preexisting networks for innovation alliances while at the same time exploiting those networks for implementation alliances addressed to cost-reduction and other operational aims. The study speaks to embeddedness theory in showing that economic actors are not deterministically constrained by business group or other preexisting network ties but may in rational fashion exploit or abandon those ties with an eye to advancing corporate and alliance goals.
Uric acid and clinical correlates of endothelial function in kidney transplant recipients

Uric acid is associated with increased mortality in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), but it is uncertain if this involves endothelial dysfunction. We hypothesized, first, that there was an association between uric acid and endothelial function, and second, that there were associations between endothelial function and cardiac and mortality risk scores.
Sensitive detection of viable Listeria monocytogenes by reverse transcription-PCR

Detection of pathogens in contaminated food products by PCR can result in false-positive data due to the amplification of DNA from nonviable cells. A new method based on reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) amplification of mRNA for the specific detection of viable Listeria monocytogenes was developed. The expression of three L. monocytogenes genes, iap, hly, and prfA, was examined to determine a suitable target for amplification of RT-PCR. Total RNA from L. monocytogenes was isolated, and following DNase treatment, the RNA was amplified by both RT-PCR and PCR with primers specific for the three genes. Amplicon detection was accomplished by Southern hybridization to digoxigenin-labeled gene probes. The levels of expression of these three genes differed markedly, and the results indicated that the iap gene would provide a good target for development of a specific method for detection of viable L. monocytogenes based on RT-PCR amplification. After a 1-h enrichment, the 371-bp iap-specific product was detected with a sensitivity of ca. 10 to 15 CFU/ml from pure culture. Detection of the 713-bp hly-specific amplicon was ca. 4,000 times less sensitive after 1 h, whereas detection of the 508-bp prfA product showed the lowest level of sensitivity, with detection not observed until after a 5-h enrichment period. The amplification of the iap mRNA was specific for L. monocytogenes. Overall, the assay could be completed in ca. 54 h. The use of RT-PCR amplification for the detection of viable L. monocytogenes was validated in artificially contaminated cooked ground beef. Following a 2-h enrichment incubation, the iap-specific amplification product could be detected in a cooked meat sample that was originally inoculated with ca. 3 CFU/g. These results support the usefulness of RT-PCR amplification of mRNA as a sensitive method for the specific detection of viable L. monocytogenes and indicate that this method may prove useful in the detection of this pathogen in ready-to-eat, refrigerated meat products.
Clinical significance of a false positive glucose challenge test in patients with a high body mass index

Abstract Objective: To determine if there is an increased maternal or neonatal morbidity in overweight and obese patients with a false positive glucose challenge test (GCT). Methods: Patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥25.0 at registration were included in this prospective 36-month study. The study cohort consisted of patients with a false positive (FP) GCT, with two comparison cohorts: those with a (1) screen negative (SN) GCT result and (2) true positive (TP) GCT result. Risks were reported as odd ratios with 95% confidence intervals, with a P<0.05 considered as significant. Results: There were 60 patients in the FP cohort, 106 in the SN cohort, and 64 in the TP cohort. When the BMI of the FP cohort was compared with either the SN cohort or TP cohort, differences were non-significant (SN 32.3 vs. FP 33.3 kg/m2, P=0.067) and (FP 33.3 vs. TP 34.4 kg/m2, P=0.303). When comparing the FP cohort to the SN cohort, patients in the FP group had significantly more gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia. There was a trend towards delivering large for gestational weight infants and an infant ≥4000 g in the FP cohort, but this fell short of reaching statistical significance. When comparing the FP to TP cohorts, rates of gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, and infants ≥4000 g were similar; however, neonatal morbidity was increased in the TP group. Conclusions: Overweight and obese patients with a FP glucose challenge screen are more likely to have adverse maternal outcomes. Neonatal morbidity was not increased.