cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Antigenic determinants of tubular basement membranes and Bowman's capsule in rats

Antigenic determinants of tubular basement membranes and Bowman's capsule in rats. Kidney sections from several inbred rat strains were studied with an indirect immunofluorescence technique using five different, selected rat antisera which contained antibodies against the tubular basement membrane (TBM). The sera came from transplanted animals, an apparently normal animal, and animals treated with spleen cells in complete Freund's adjuvant. Upon panel analysis, at least two different antigenic determinants were recognized on the proximal TBM: One was present in nine and one was present in seven of the 15 strains tested; both determinants appear to be expressed in most antigen-positive strains. Using kidneys from major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-congenic strains, it was shown that the TBM antigens are encoded outside the MHC region. Three sera produced variable staining of Bowman's capsule in association with the proximal TBM; two sera produced clearly discordant staining of Bowman's capsule and proximal TBM. The capsular antigens were also coded outside the MHC region. These observations suggested the existence of at least two different antigenic determinants on proximal TBM. Bowman's capsule appeared to have antigenic determinants in common with the proximal TBM as well as distinct determinants. Determinants antigeniques des membranes basales tubulaires et de la capsule de Bowman du rat. Des sections de rein de plusieurs souches pures de rats etaient etudie par une technique d'immunofluorescence indirecte utilisant cinq anti-serums de rats differents, selectionnes, contenant des anticorps contre la membrane basale tubulaire (MBT). Les serums provenaient d'animaux transplantes, d'un animal en apparence normal, et d'animaux traites avec des cellules spleniques dans de l'adjuvant complet de Freund. En faisant une analyse globale, au moins deux determinants antigeniques differents etaient reconnus dans les MBT proximales. L'un etait present chez neuf, l'autre chez sept des quinze souches testees; les deux determinants antigeniques semblaient exprimes chez la plupart des souches antigene positif. En employant des reins provenant de souches complexe de histocompatibilite majeur (CHM)-congeniques, nous avons montre que les antigenes de la MBT sont codes a l'exterieur de la region MHC. Trois serums ont produit une coloration variable de la capsule de Bowman en plus des MBT proximales; deux serums ont produit des colorations nettement discordantes de la capsule de Bowman et des MTB proximales. Les antigenes capsulaires ont egalement codes a l'exterieur de la region MHC. Ces observations suggerent l'existence d'au moins deux determinants antigeniques differents dans les MTB proximales. La capsule de Bowman sembla avoir des determinants antigeniques communs avec les MTB proximales, mais egalement des determinants differents.
A RATIONAL CURVE RELATING LENGTH OF REST PERIOD AND LENGTH OF SUBSEQUENT WORK PERIOD FOR AN ERGOGRAPHIC EXPERIMENT

A rational function is developed relating the length of a rest period and length of subsequent work period in an ergographic situation. Simple energistic postulates are used for a critical organ or neuromuscular structure whose failure to perform adequately results in a stoppage of the work period. Experimental results for two subjects using a finger ergograph indicate that the function yields the general trend of the data but that there seem to be some systematic deviations of the data from the present rational function. One parameter determined from the data represents rate of recovery from moderate fatigue. It is hoped that this development will aid in studies of motor functions as related to such other variables as age, motivation, and effects of drugs.
Relationship of radiographic and clinical variables to pinch and grip strength among individuals with osteoarthritis

Objective Little is known about how specific radiographic features are related to hand strength in osteoarthritis (OA). This study examined associations of radiographic variables with pinch and grip strength among individuals with radiographic hand OA. Methods Participants (n = 700, 80% female, mean age 69 years) were part of a study on the genetics of generalized OA. All had bilateral radiographic hand OA. Linear models were used to examine associations of grip and pinch strength with 1) OA in joint groups (proximal interphalangeal, metacarpophalangeal [MCP], carpometacarpal [CMC]), 2) OA in rays (first through fifth), and 3) summed Kellgren/Lawrence (K/L) grades for severity of OA in all joints. Adjusted models controlled for age, sex, hand pain, chondrocalcinosis, and hand hypermobility. Mixed models accounted for clustering within families. Results In bivariate analyses, all joint groups, all rays, and total summed K/L grades were significantly negatively associated with grip and pinch strength (P < 0.05). In adjusted models, the only joint group significantly associated with grip strength was the CMCs, and only OA in the MCP joint was significantly associated with pinch strength (P < 0.05). The only ray significantly associated with grip strength (P < 0.05) was ray 1, and no individual rays were significantly associated with pinch strength. A higher summed K/L grade was significantly associated with both lower grip strength and lower pinch strength. Conclusion Among individuals with radiographic hand OA, increasing radiographic severity is associated with reduced grip and pinch strength, even when controlling for self-reported pain. Individuals with radiographic OA in specific locations (CMC joints, MCP joints, and ray 1) may be at particular risk for reduced hand strength.
Biographical Byways: Dr. S. P. Langley

I REGRETTED to see Sir Arthur Schuster's article in NATURE of February 7 presented so unpleasing a picture of my old chief, Dr. S. P. Langley. Like some other great men I have met, his character had blemishes, and, as one of Sir Arthur's anecdotes indicates, it was surprising to see in so great a man such care to preserve the appearance of dignity which he thought properly attached to his office and his attainments. If he had been as careless of it as Lord Kelvin, dignity would have wrapped itself about him like a cloak, crowned with the mantle of lovableness, which, to his intimates, Langley surely possessed. One is reminded of the Scripture saying: “He that loveth his life shall lose it.”
The role of attachment style in women’s recognition of sexism

Abstract The present research examined how differences in attachment style might impact women’s awareness of sexism. Identity threat models of stigma emphasize the role of individual differences in responding to social identity threats, however little is known about what factors lead to avoidance versus vigilance for such threats. Furthermore, research shows that insecure attachment is related to avoidant responses to blatantly threatening cues, but vigilance when such cues are ambiguous. Thus, insecurely attached women should acknowledge less sexism toward women when faced with instances of blatant sexism, whereas their awareness should be heightened by instances of ambiguous sexism. Conversely, securely attached women should acknowledge sexism when encountering blatant rather than ambiguous instances of sexism. In a test of these hypotheses, 155 women were exposed to either a male verbally rejecting a women’s opinion for blatantly sexist or ambiguously sexist reasons. The data confirm predictions. The findings suggest interventions to improve outcomes for stigmatized groups should consider impacts of attachment style, and further, that attachment style might partially explain women’s divergent responses to sexism.
Gliogenesis in rat optic nerve: Astrocytes are generated in a single wave before oligodendrocytes☆

Abstract The time of origin for astrocytes in the rat optic nerve was investigated to determine whether this cell type is generated in two waves, a first wave which occurs before the formation of oligodendrocytes and a second wave which occurs after the peak period of oligodendrocyte formation. To answer this question, multiple injections of radioactive thymidine were administered to rats after the peak period of oligodendrocyte production in the optic nerve and the animals were sacrificed several weeks after the first injection. Thymidine-labeled cells in the optic nerve were identified with the electron microscope. Of the labeled cells, >80% are oligodendrocytes, 4% are microglia, 2% are astrocytes, and the remainder are unclassifiable. The thymidine-labeled cells in the nerve were not immunostained for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a marker characteristic of astrocytes. The number of thymidine-labeled glia generated after the second postnatal week is a small fraction of the total number of glia generated neonatally. No evidence exists for a second wave of astrocyte formation in the rat optic nerve as has been suggested in a study by Miller et al. (1985, Dev. Biol. 111, 35–41) ; rather, the vast majority of astrocytes are generated during the first 2 postnatal weeks and these data are in keeping with classical studies of gliogenesis. The question of whether astrocytes in the rat optic nerve arise directly from division of an undifferentiated, common progenitor cell or from a cell committed to the astrocyte lineage was addressed by combining thymidine autoradiography with GFAP immunocytochemistry. Rats were sacrificed 1 hr after an injection of thymidine and their nerves were processed for GFAP immunocytochemistry and autoradiography. During the first postnatal week, many thymidine-labeled cells are immunostained for GFAP. These observations demonstrate that cells committed to the astrocyte lineage divide neonatally and give rise to additional astrocytes.
Precision measurement of the 3s1/2-3p3/2 transition energy in Na-like platinum ions.

We report a measurement of the 3${\mathit{s}}_{1/2\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$3${\mathit{p}}_{3/2}$ transition energy in Na-like $_{78}\mathrm{Pt}^{67+}$ ions of 653.44\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02(stat) \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.05(syst) eV. The x rays were observed from ions in an electron-beam ion trap. The uncertainty in our result corresponds to 1% of the total estimated quantum electrodynamic radiative contribution to this transition energy. This value differs significantly from extrapolations based on previous lower-Z data, and establishes a benchmark for calculations of high-Z multielectron radiative and relativistic effects.
Heme oxidation in a chimeric protein of the α-selective Neisseriae meningitidis heme oxygenase with the distal helix of the δ-selective Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Heme oxygenases from the bacterial pathogens Neisseriae meningitidis (nm-HO) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (pa-HO) share significant sequence identity (37%). In nm-HO, biliverdin IXalpha is the sole product of the reaction, whereas pa-HO yields predominantly biliverdin IXdelta. We have previously shown by NMR that the in-plane conformation of the heme in pa-HO is significantly different from that of nm-HO as a result of distinct interactions of the heme propionates with the protein scaffold [Caignan, G. A., Deshmukh, R., Wilks, A., Zeng, Y., Huang, H. W., Moenne-Loccoz, P., Bunce, R. A., Eastman, M. A., and Rivera, M. (2002) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 124, 14879-14892]. In the report presented here, we have extended these studies to investigate the role of the distal helix by preparing a chimera of nm-HO (nm-HOch), in which distal helix residues 107-142 of nm-HO have been replaced with the corresponding residues of the delta-regioselective pa-HO (112-147). Electronic absorption spectra, resonance Raman and FTIR spectroscopic studies confirm that the orientation and hydrogen bonding properties of the proximal His ligand are not significantly altered in the chimera relative those of the wild-type proteins. The catalytic turnover of the nm-HOch-heme complex yields almost exclusively alpha-biliverdin and a small but reproducible amount of delta-biliverdin. NMR spectroscopic studies reveal that the altered regioselectivity in the chimeric protein likely stems from a dynamic equilibrium between two alternate in-plane conformations of the heme (in-plane heme disorder). Replacement of K16 with Ala and Met31 with Lys in the chimeric protein in an effort to tune key polypeptide-heme propionate contacts largely stabilizes the in-plane conformer conducive to delta-meso hydroxylation.
The relationship of affiliative arousal to dopamine release

Higher levels of affiliation motivation after exposure to affiliative films are significantly related to higher dopamine concentrations in saliva in one study of 61 college students of both sexes, and in plasma in another study of 47 adults of both sexes. Individuals high in dispositionaln Affiliation, if they also reported high life stress, showed high gains in dopamine concentration in plasma after exposure to an affiliative film significantly more often than other individuals. Since aroused affiliation motivation was not associated with higher concentrations of norepinephrine, epinephrine, or cortisol in either study, it appears likely that dopamine is especially associated with arousal of affiliation motivation, just as norepinephrine has been found to be associated with arousal of power motivation. Thus, different motives may be subserved by different hormones, making it unlikely that all motives lead to the same state of physiological arousal.
Disposition and regulation of body potassium: an overview

Most of filtered K+ is reabsorbed passively in the proximal tubule since the tubular fluid (TF): plasma (P) concentration ratio is almost identical to the equilibrium value calculated from the transtubular potential difference. In the loop of Henle, K+ also moves passively along chemical and electrical gradients. Only 5-10% of the filtered K+ remains in the early distal convoluted tubule. In the distal convoluted tubule TF/P K+ is lower than the calculated equilibrium value suggesting that K+ is passively secreted and actively reabsorbed. Most of the excreted K+ had been secreted by the end of the distal convoluted tubule. Aldosterone increases K+ secretion in this segment, an effect that may be dissociated from the effect on Na+. The relation between K+ secretion and Na+ absorption is the consequence of the luminal electronegativity produced by Na+ absorption and is not stoichiometric. Acidosis and alkalosis decrease and increase K+ secretion in the distal tubule respectively; this is not due to reciprocal changes in H+ secretion. Normally, some K+ is reabsorbed in the collecting duct. During K+ deprivation and loading the collecting duct may participate in the conservation or elimination of K+ respectively. Adaptation to chronic K+-loading consists of renal and extrarenal factors. The extrarenal mechanism is aldosterone-dependent and consists of rapid uptake of K+ by muscle. The renal mechanism consists of increased K+ secretion by the distal tubule. Luminal electronegativity and increased K+ pool in the distal tubular cell play a crucial role.
Maternal depression as a risk factor for family homelessness.

Objectives. We estimated the effects of maternal depression during the postpartum year, which is often an unexpected event, on subsequent homelessness and risk of homelessness in a national sample of urban, mostly low-income mothers.Methods. We used logistic regression models to estimate associations between maternal depression during the postpartum year and both homelessness and risk of homelessness 2 to 3 years later, controlling for maternal and family history of depression, prenatal housing problems, and other covariates. Risk factors for homelessness included experiencing evictions or frequent moves and moving in with family or friends and not paying rent.Results. We found robust associations between maternal depression during the postpartum year and subsequent homelessness and risk of homelessness, even among mothers who had no history of mental illness, whose own mothers did not have a history of depressive symptoms, and who had no previous housing problems.Conclusions. This study provides robust e...
T1ρ‐prepared balanced gradient echo for rapid 3D T1ρ MRI

Purpose To develop a T1ρ-prepared balanced gradient echo (b-GRE) pulse sequence for rapid 3D T1ρ relaxation mapping within the time constraints of a clinical exam (< 10 minutes), examine the effect of acquisition on the measured T1ρ relaxation time and optimize 3D T1ρ pulse sequences for the knee joint and spine.
Phase-separation temperatures for solid isotopic mixtures

Abstract Considering the energy of a solid isotopic mixture as a sum of the pair energies, taking into consideration nearest and second nearest-neighbor interactions and assuming that the Gibbs free energy has a regular solution form, phase-separation temperatures are calculated for mixtures of 3 He 4 He and H 2 D 2 , for sc, bcc and fcc lattices. Qualitatively, the results are in the experimental range.
Chemical Profiling and Standardization of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) by Reversed Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography

Lepidium meyenii (Maca) is one of the few plants that can be cultivated in the harsh climate of the Andes. Its nutritious hypocotyl is traditionally used as food and medicine, and Maca products are increasingly becoming popular in the western world as tonics. This paper describes the first analytical method allowing the determination of the main macamides and macaenes, the marker compounds of L. meyenii. A separation within 35 min was possible by using a C-12 stationary phase, an acidic mobile phase comprising of acetonitrile and water, and raising the column temperature to 40 degrees C. By monitoring the separation at 210 and 280 nm, the markers were detectable as low as 0.40 microg/ml. In order to validate the method, accuracy, precision, linearity, limit of detection and intra/inter day repeatability were determined. The analysis of several commercially available Maca products showed a similar qualitative pattern but significant differences in the quantitative composition. The percentage of total markers in the preparations varied from 0.15 to 0.84%, resulting in daily intakes for the consumer from 1.52 to 14.88 mg, respectively.
We Met on the Net: Exploring the Perceptions of Online Romantic Relationship Participants

Parks and Roberts (1998) found that 93.6% of Internet users participated in online relationships and that 26.3% of those relationships were romantic in nature. Despite their growing popularity, relatively little is known about how participants perceive their online romances. This study examined the written narratives of 202 online romantic relationship participants to learn more about how they describe online romances. Five themes were identified: (a) intense emotional arousal, (b) high levels of caution, (c) strong linguistic connections, (d) high numbers of extramarital affairs, and (e) a lack of social support from offline family and friends. These findings are discussed in terms of how social cognition and the online medium may impact the nature of a romantic relationship.
Increased release of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and transforming growth factor-β1 in the plasma of children with persistent asthma

Abstract Rationale Important features of airway remodeling include subepithelial fibrosis and increased deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 is involved in the normal ECM turnover and found to increase in patients with severe asthma. TGF-β1, IL-11, and IL-17 are profibrotic cytokines involved in the formation of subepithelial fibrosis and also increased in patients with severe asthma. The purpose of this study was to compare the levels of these enzyme and cytokines in the plasma of children with persistent asthma and newly diagnosed asthma. Methods The asthmatic children aged from 1 to 5 years old who admitted with asthma attack were included. The patients who had more than three episodes of asthma attack in the past year or who have treated for moderate-to-severe persistent asthma for more than 6 months before admission were designated as group 1 (n=24). The patients who were diagnosed with asthma for the first time were designated as group 2 (n=18). The plasma levels of MMP-9, TGF-β1, IL-11, and IL-17 were measured by ELISA in patient groups and controls (n=15). Results MMP-9 in group 1 was significantly greater than in group 2 (p Conclusion These results showed increased plasma levels of MMP-9 and TGF-β1 in young children with persistent asthma and suggest a process of airway remodeling in these patients.
The importance of homework in determining immigrant students' grades in schools in the USA context

Background: While a significant body of research has addressed teachers' evaluations of mainstream English speaking students, there is a dearth of such research focusing on immigrant adolescents. As many immigrant students are in the process of acquiring English language proficiency, evaluating and assigning grades to immigrant youth can pose particular challenges. Grades assigned for oral or written products may underestimate English language learners' knowledge, content skills or achievement. Conversely, relying excessively on effort or class behaviour rather than actual academic performance may inflate immigrant students' grades. Purpose: We examined the extent to which immigrant students' academic achievement indicated by grades is attributable to factors such as English language proficiency, course understanding, classroom behaviours and homework completion. We then examined whether the effect of homework completion on grades varied as a function of English proficiency. In addition, we examined the f...
The Construct Validity of Teaching Behavior Evaluation Methods: A Multitrait-Multimethod Analysis

The construct validity of five different methods of assessing five separate teaching behavior traits was examined in the framework of a S x 5 multitrait-multimethod matrix. The results indicated that videotape rating methods produced convergent and discriminant validity coefficients which were greater than or equal to those derived from the more traditional peer and student rating methods.
Influence of methyl substituents on the stability of 1-aza-2-adamantanone, Kirby's most twisted amide

Hydrolysis and carbonyl hydration of adamantane-based twisted amide 1 were studied computationally. The importance of the bridgehead methyl substituents on these reactions was determined. The carbonyl hydration of 1 is structurally and energetically much like the hydration of a transition state to amide CN bond rotation. However, hydrolysis of 1 to the amino acid is dependent on the bridgehead methyl substituents and less like hydrolysis of an amide transition state. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isolation and characterization of plasma membranes from an L-asparaginase-sensitive strain of leukemia cells.

Summary Plasma membranes have been isolated from an L-asparaginase-sensitive cell line; L5178Y/CA 55 leukemia cells. The membranes were isolated either as glutaraldehyde strengthened membrane fragments or untreated whole ghosts. L-Asparaginase treatment of whole ghosts resulted in their rapid lysis.
Restricted Phonon Relaxation and Anomalous Thermalization of Rare Earth Ions in Nanocrystals

An anomalous thermalization effect induced by optical excitation of Er3+ ions in nanocrystals of Y2O2S is investigated. Due to the absence of low-energy phonon modes in the 20−40 nm crystals we stu...
HIV-1, HTLV-1 and normal T-cell growth: transcriptional strategies and surprises.

Abstract In this review, Warner Greene and colleagues discuss recent studies that have revealed an intruguing molecular interplay between two pathogenic human retroviruses, HIV-1 and HTLV-1, and certain cellular genes that normally control T-cell growth. Activation of T cells during an immune response results in the induction of select transcription factors that bind specifically to κB enhancer elements present in both the IL-2Rα and IL-2 genes. Normal T-cell growth is in part regulated by the transient expression of these genes. The Tax protein of HTLV-1 induces these same κB-specific proteins, but in contrast to immune stimulation, HTLV-1 infection of T cells leads to constitutive IL-2α gene expression and immortalization. A second human retrovirus, HIV-1, can subvert the normal action of the βB-binding factors induced by these immune stimuli. Rather than promoting T-cell growth, these factors may augment viral replication and promote T-cell death.
Does positive family history of prostate cancer increase the risk of prostate cancer on initial prostate biopsy

Objective To assess the role of family history (FH) in the risk of a positive prostate biopsy (PBx) in a large North American biopsy population as earlier reports showed increased risk of prostate cancer (PCa) in men with a FH, but the risk has been limited to low grade prostate cancer in smaller studies, and the REDUCE trial found no such risk in North American patients. Methods We evaluated 4360 men undergoing initial extended biopsy (8-14 cores). Indications were elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and/or abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE). Variables including age, FH of PCa, race, PSA, and DRE results were included in our analysis to assess risk factors associated with PCa, high-grade prostate cancer (HGPCa), and low-grade prostate cancer (LGPCa). Results Two hundred sixty-eight patients had an FH of PCa whereas 4092 had negative FH. Positive biopsy was found in 1976 patients with HGPCa in 1149 and LGPCa in 827. Among 268 patients with an FH, overall PCa was found in 144 of 268 patients (54%); HGPCa in 79 of 144 patients (55%) and LGPCa in 65 of 144 patients (45%). FH was a significant risk factor for PCa, HGPCa, and LGPCa in univariate and multivariate analysis ( P = .0001, .02, and .02, respectively). Also, FH was associated with high-risk benign pathology in the form of atypical small acinar cell proliferation (ASAP) or high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasm (HGPIN) ( P = .04). Conclusion Men in North America with an FH of PCa who undergo prostate biopsy are more likely to be diagnosed with both HGPCa and LGPCa.
Reproducibility of Planewave Transit Times in three explosives during initiation: Comparison to wedge experiments

Planewave transit times were measured in three explosives: PBX-9404, pressed TNT, and PBX-9502. Four nominally identical disks were used on each shot to measure the reproducibility of the transit time. Standard deviations in transit times were 1%–2% if most of the wave trajectory was in the initiation phase. The standard deviation in transit times is larger than the measurement precision; this indicates a distribution in the response to the input pressure wave. Comparison was made to results of previous wedge initiation experiments. We conclude that most of the scatter in run distances to detonation found in wedge experiments is not inherent in the initiation process or the explosive quality. The scatter may be due to the imprecision of the free-surface velocity measurement coupled with the power-law character of the relation between run distance to detonation and input pressure.
Outsourcing photocopying in a library: one experience

The process for outsourcing photocopying includes developing a clear Request for Proposal, monitoring and responding to vendor performance and ensuring quality controls are used. Outsourcing photocopying, done carefully, can help the library husband precious resources while outsourcing activities not traditionally associated with librarianship.
Transient study of cyclohexane dehydrogenation in a CSTR-II

Transient response data for the cyclohexane dehydrogenation reaction were collected on a surface coated Pt-Al2O3 catalyst. Mathematical analysis with the surface coated catalyst is considerably simpler due to the absence of intraparticle gradients. The data, which often displayed a characteristic overshoot type of response, were correlated by a surface coverage model where the π/σa-bonded benzene transition surface complex can reversibly orient itself to a σ-bonded hydrogen deficient surface species which cannot desorb. As in previous work cyclohexane adsorption was found to be slow and surface reactions involving the adsorbed hydrocarbon species were found to be rapid.
Rhipicephalus sanguinius: Localization of vitellogenin synthesis by immunological methods and electron microscopy

Abstract In ovipositing Rhipicephalus sanguinius (Latrelle), complete immunological identity existed between vitellogenin from the midgut, fat body, and hemolymph and vitellin from eggs. This supported the hypothesis that the same vitellogenin was synthesized by both the midgut and fat body, then released into the hemolymph and transported to the ovary. Vitellogenin was taken up unaltered by the oocytes during vitellogenesis to become vitellin. Antivitellogenin did not react with host (dog) hemoglobin. Transmission electron microscopy showed specialized cells with large amounts of rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complexes, and secretory granules in the midgut and fat body of ovipositing females that were absent in the midgut and fat body of fed males. It is suggested that these cells synthesize vitellogenin.
Evidence for thymic function in the elderly.

The thymus represents the major site of lymphopoiesis of T-cell receptor (TCR) αβ T-cells. Age-related involution may affect its potential to reconstitute T-cells that are lost during HIV infection, chemotherapy, and bone marrow transplantation. However, there is mounting evidence that the age-related changes in the thymus are quantitative, not qualitative, and recent data suggest that the adult thymus can indeed contribute to T-cell reconstitution. Using newer methods to assess thymic function, it can be shown that the increases in naive T-cell numbers in patients receiving antiretroviral therapy for AIDS are largely derived from the thymus. This provides direct evidence for the functional capacity of the adult thymus.
Finite element and implicit Runge–Kutta implementation of an acoustics–convection upstream resolution algorithm for the time‐dependent two‐dimensional Euler equations

The second of a two-paper series, this paper details a solver for the characteristics-bias system from the acoustics–convection upstream resolution algorithm for the Euler and Navier–Stokes equations. An integral formulation leads to several surface integrals that allow effective enforcement of boundary conditions. Also presented is a new multi-dimensional procedure to enforce a pressure boundary condition at a subsonic outlet, a procedure that remains accurate and stable. A classical finite element Galerkin discretization of the integral formulation on any prescribed grid directly yields an optimal discretely conservative upstream approximation for the Euler and Navier–Stokes equations, an approximation that remains multi-dimensional independently of the orientation of the reference axes and computational cells. The time-dependent discrete equations are then integrated in time via an implicit Runge–Kutta procedure that in this paper is proven to remain absolutely non-linearly stable for the spatially-discrete Euler and Navier–Stokes equations and shown to converge rapidly to steady states, with maximum Courant number exceeding 100 for the linearized version. Even on relatively coarse grids, the acoustics–convection upstream resolution algorithm generates essentially non-oscillatory solutions for subsonic, transonic and supersonic flows, encompassing oblique- and interacting-shock fields that converge within 40 time steps and reflect reference exact solutions. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Small RNAs Have a Big Effect on Polycystic Kidney Disease

The discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs), a group of small noncoding RNAs, has revolutionized our understanding of post-transcriptional regulation. Although it was presumed for a long time that transcriptional regulation is the major factor in protein expression, it is now evident that stabilization of
Culpability and blame after pregnancy loss

The problem of feeling guilty about a pregnancy loss is suggested to be primarily a moral matter and not a medical or psychological one. Two standard approaches to women who blame themselves for a loss are first introduced, characterised as either psychologistic or deterministic. Both these approaches are shown to underdetermine the autonomy of the mother by depending on the notion that the mother is not culpable for the loss if she “could not have acted otherwise”. The inability to act otherwise is explained as not being as strong a determinant of culpability as it may seem at first. Instead, people’s culpability for a bad turn of events implies strongly that they have acted for the wrong reasons, which is probably not true in the case of women who have experienced a loss of pregnancy. The practical conclusion of this paper is that women who feel a sense of guilt in the wake of their loss have a good reason to reject both the psychologistic and the deterministic approaches to their guilt—that they are justified in feeling upset about what has gone wrong, even responsible for the life of the child, but are not culpable for the unfortunate turn of events.
Power-aware content-adaptive H.264 video encoding

H.264 is a computationally intensive video codec striving for achieving the best quality for the compressed video. The computational complexity poses as a challenge for power-constrained applications. We present a system level complexity reduction for H.264 video encoding by allocating resources based on computational complexity and quality trade-off. We develop a framework which allocates the computational power of the encoder adaptive to video contents and also scales with the available battery power using a ROI classification method. Analysis is done to profile the key modules of the encoder which can be power-optimized while allocating resources. The results of the encoder module analysis are combined with the motion content analysis to obtain a power efficient encoder parameter set which reduces the computations and hence the power consumed. Our simulation results on the JM H.264 framework confirm our hypothesis and computational savings of more than 50% with quality degradation less than 1% is achieved thereby extending it's feasibility for battery powered wireless devices.
Multi-Modal Forcing of the Turbulent Separated Shear Flow Past a Rib

Experiments have been conducted to study the development of flow behind a surface mounted rib under different phase controlled excitation. Single mode excitation and multi-mode excitation with different relative phases are studied. The results presented include the coherent and random components of the turbulent energy and shear stresses, the energy exchange with the mean flow and between the modes, and the phase decorrelation of the coherent components. The fundamental-subharmonic excitation does not provide any significant improvements in the shear layer growth over the fundamental excitation. The shear layer growth correlates with the subharmonic mode development. The the large scale structures are significant even after the reattachment region as evident from the magnitude of the coherent components of the turbulent energy and the shear stress. The binary exchange terms are significant in the near-field region whose sign is phase dependent, i.e., it reverses its sign based on the phase difference between the fundamental and 1st subharmonic mode
Antibiotic Dosing in Slow Extended Daily Dialysis

Slow extended daily dialysis (SLEDD) is the newest form of dialysis that is being used increasingly to replace continuous venovenous hemodialysis (CVVHD) for critically ill patients; it is less expensive to administer and has similar safety for patients who are prone to hemodynamic instability. Unfortunately, there are limited data regarding the appropriate dosing of antimicrobial agents for patients undergoing SLEDD. Furthermore, many nonnephrologists are not familiar with the differences between SLEDD, other continuous renal replacement therapies--for example, CVVHD--and routine hemodialysis. Thus, there is potential for inaccurate and, at worst, inadequate dosing of critical antimicrobial agents for this patient population. We review the available pharmacokinetic data on SLEDD and give preliminary recommendations for how to approach dosing in this situation.
A Comprehensive Murine Model to Evaluate Topical Vaginal Microbicides: Mucosal Inflammation and Susceptibility to Genital Herpes as Surrogate Markers of Safety

A critical gap in microbicide development is the absence of surrogate safety markers. The objective of the present study was to develop a murine model to examine the mucosal response to microbicides and to assess the functional implication of observed changes. Mice received 14 daily intravaginal doses of nonoxynol-9, PRO 2000, or placebo gel. Nonoxynol-9 induced an inflammatory response characterized by increases in levels of cytokines and chemokines, recruitment of neutrophils and monocytes into the genital tract, and activation of the transcription factors NF- kappa B and activator protein-1. Minimal inflammation was observed in response to 2% PRO 2000. Nonoxynol-9-treated mice were significantly more susceptible to challenge with a low dose of herpes simplex virus type 2; the response of PRO 2000-treated mice was similar to the response to placebo. These findings suggest that PRO 2000 has little deleterious effect on mucosal immunity and, if validated by clinical experiences, support the inclusion of this model in the preclinical evaluation of future candidate microbicides.
Optical fibers as tetrad dissection needles

Des fibres optiques sont adaptees a un micromanipulateur et sont utilisees comme des aiguilles pour la dissection des tetrades dans les etudes de genetique des levures
The Future of for to

I examine the development of for to and for in several stages of English. I argue that as prepositions grammaticalize, they acquire certain intrinsic features and occupy special positions. In Old English, for to is a P, related to Case, and has some future sense (through an extension of the locative meaning). Verbs do not subcategorize for complements with for (yet), however. In early Middle English, for to is used to introduce a complement with future meaning. Now, for (to) occupies C, which I assume is universally true for purpose/future indicators. In late Middle English, the situation solidifies, and more verbs select a complement with for (to) indicating purpose and futurity. In Early Modern English, for to disappears, but for separated from to takes over its function of introducing purposive adjuncts and future complements.
Challenges to radiology resident education in the new era

Over the past decade, there have been many developments that have changed the practice of radiology and the education of radiology residents. These include workforce issues, the institution of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education duty-hours restrictions, the increased use of night float systems, and the implementation of picture archiving and communication systems as well as voice recognition. This article reviews the impact on resident education, summarizes potential problems introduced by these changes, and examines proposed solutions.
Introducing parallel manipulators through laboratory experiments

Describes how simple, inexpensive prototypes of parallel manipulators can be employed as an efficient educational tool to teach undergraduate students not only the basics of parallel manipulators but also reinforce material learned in linear algebra, kinematics, statics, and computer programming.
Computer aided configuration of pipe systems in buildings

: The combined configuration of the various pipe systems in hospitals, laboratories and plants can be very complicated. They are designed by different professionals and presented on separate drawings, generally by single lines. Location of Pipe systems has to satisfy constraints on clear distances between different kinds of pipes, negative spaces for installation and maintenance, and, in some cases, minimum and maximum slopes. The single lines presentations may pose unexpected interference problems during construction, impairing the quality, cost and schedule of the project. To cope with the difficulty, allowing more flexible space is usually considered, but this approach neglects the economic factor, and interference problems may still occur. This paper presents a methodology for a three-dimensional (3-D) configuration of pipe systems which satisfies given constraints and which avoids interference problems during construction. The data on the building and the initial single-line piping layout can be fed into the process either directly from the blueprints or by using AutoCAD™. The process presented in this paper then calculates the existence of any interference problems, using analytic geometry and computer graphics. If any interferences are found, a computer simulation process incrementally modifies the initial layout until all of the constraints are satisfied. The modified data are then transferred to AutoCAD™ which configures a 3-D presentation of the pipe system. An example application, using the proposed methodology, is presented in this paper. In addition to time and cost savings during construction, the work presented in this paper has the potential of: reducing storey heights, reducing underground excavations, ensuring reasonable space for maintenance personnel, better scheduling of piping activities, and the economic benefit of considering the possibilities of the penetration of pipes through structural beams closed to the nautral lines.
Editorial commentary: better laboratory testing for Lyme disease: no more Western blot.

It seems unlikely, in routine clinical practice, that direct methods, including culture or polymerase chain reaction, will ever become the primary tests for the laboratory diagnosis of Lyme disease. Indirect, serologic tests will continue to be used to support this diagnosis [1]. Can serologic testing for Lyme disease be improved? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently recommends a 2-tiered algorithm for serodiag
A DIGITAL CALORIMETER

Abstract The paper describes a calorimeter which is used to determine the particle flux of an accelerator. It incorporates as its principal feature a Peltier module which is operated in a constant current pulse mode. Via a feedback arrangement, the Peltier module thermally compensates the heat generated by the particle beam by supplying discrete “cooling quanta”. The number of “quanta” generated per unit time is measured with a frequency counter and is proportional to the beam power. The calorimeter can be calibrated via internal resistors which dissipate a precisely known amount of power in the target.
The adequacy of ICNP version 1.0 as a representational model for electronic nursing assessment documentation.

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adequacy of the International Classification of Nursing Practice 1 (ICPN) Version 1.0 as a representational model for nursing assessment documentation. Design and Measurements To identify representational requirements of nursing assessments, the authors mapped key concepts and semantic relations extracted from standardized and local nursing admission assessment documentation forms/templates and inpatient admission assessment records to the ICNP. Next, they expanded the list of ICNP semantic relations with those obtained from the admission assessment forms/templates. The expanded ICNP semantic relations were then validated against the semantic relations identified from an additional set of admission assessment records and a set of 300 randomly selected North American Nursing Diagnosis Association defining characteristic phrases. The concept coverage of the ICNP was evaluated by mapping the concepts extracted from these sources to the ICNP concepts. The UMLS Methathesaurus was then used to map concepts without exact matches to other American Nursing Association (ANA) recognized terminologies. Results The authors found that along with the 30 existing ICNP semantic relations, an additional 17 are required for the ICNP to function as a representational model for nursing assessment documentation. Eight hundred and five unique assessment concepts were extracted from all sources. Forty-three percent of these unique assessment concepts had exact matches in the ICNP. An additional 20% had matches in the ICNP classified as narrower, broader, or “other.” Of the concepts without exact matches in the ICNP, 81% had exact matches found in other ANA recognized terminologies. Conclusions The broad concept coverage and the logic-based structure of the ICNP make it a flexible and robust standard. The ICNP provides a framework from which to capture and reuse atomic level data to facilitate evidence-based practice.
Azimuth Determinations in Meteoritics by Means of Time Readings

The inability of untrained observers accurately to measure and report, e.g., the azimuth (bearing) of the point of disappearance, L, of a fireball is universally acknowledged. Even several weeks after the occurrence of a spectacular fireball, however, such observers are able to remember and to point out with some accuracy the position that L occupied in the sky. In this paper, advantage is taken of the layman's ability to recall and to sight at points in the sky like L, in order to develop a method by means of which the azimuth of a point, P, on the apparent path of a meteorite thru the atmosphere can be calculated, provided the observer simply reads and records a single watch-time, T, on some sunny day subsequent to the fall. This time, T, is the instant when the true Sun either has the same azimuth as P or differs from P in azimuth by 180°.
Teaching Quantitative Reasoning: A Better Context for Algebra

This editorial questions the preeminence of algebra in our mathematics curriculum. The GATC (Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus) sequence abandons the fundamental middle school math topics necessary for quantitative literacy, while the standard super-abundance of algebra taught in the abstract fosters math phobia and supports a culturally acceptable stance that math is not relevant to everyday life. Although GATC is seen as a pipeline to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), it is a mistake to think that the objective of producing quantitatively literate citizens is at odds with creating more scientists and engineers. The goal must be to create a curriculum that addresses the quantitative reasoning needs of all students, providing meaningful engagement in mathematics that will simultaneously develop quantitative literacy and spark an interest in STEM fields. In my view, such a curriculum could be based on a foundation of proportional reasoning leading to higher-order quantitative reasoning via modeling (including algebraic reasoning and problem solving) and statistical literacy (through the exploration and study of data).
Leadership in Organizational Settings

Numerous studies have shown that some leadership styles are associated with increased productivity and worker satisfaction. Although their authors generally qualify their findings by stating that t...