cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accurate determination of the total hemispherical emittance and solar absorptance of opaque surfaces at elevated temperatures

Abstract In many applications such as solar power conversion technologies, radiative heat transfer plays a significant role in the energy balance. For accurate performance predictions of solar power conversion devices the total hemispherical emittance and solar absorptance of surfaces need to be known with high accuracy. Often times the emittance of a surface is calculated from indirect spectral bidirectional or directional-hemispherical reflection measurements at room temperature which can significantly underestimate the total hemispherical emittance. Here, we report a simple steady-state calorimetric method to directly measure the total hemispherical emittance of opaque surfaces at elevated temperatures with a maximum experimental uncertainty of 5%. The method is further expanded to directly measure the solar absorptance of the surface at elevated temperature using a solar simulator. We show experimental total hemispherical emittance and solar absoprtance results for various surfaces such as machine polished copper and stainless steel and several spectrally selective solar absorbers. We describe a methodology to characterize solar absorbers and apply it to a cermet-based spectrally selective solar absorber.
Macroevolutionary transition in crinoids following the Late Ordovician extinction event (Ordovician to Early Silurian)

Abstract The end-Katian (Late Ordovician) crinoid mass extinction triggered the change from the Early to the Middle Paleozoic crinoid evolutionary faunas (CEFs). This was a change from diplobathrid camerate-disparid-hybocrinid dominated faunas to faunas dominated by monobathrid camerate, cladid, and flexible crinoids. All clades suffered extinctions at the end-Katian event, but diplobathrid camerates, disparids, and hybocrinids suffered higher rates of extinction. The primary amount of diversification occurred in clades that would become dominant during the Silurian. However, the formation of the characteristic Middle Paleozoic CEF was protracted beyond the Late Ordovician extinction event. Monobathrid camerates and flexibles diversified through the Llandovery, but both dendrocrinid and cyathocrinid cladids did not diversify until later. Monobathrid camerate genera and families diversified, the flexible diversification was largely at the genus level, cyathocrine diversification was largely among families, and dendrocrinids did not diversify significantly until after the Llandovery. Overall disparity decreased during the end-Katian extinction by reducing the disparity within each clade. Disparity remained fairly constant during the Hirnantian but increased significantly during the Llandovery by both increasing disparity within clades and expanding the morphospace of the disparids due to the radiation of families with new morphologies. North America was the biogeographic center of origination for the families that survived to become dominant Silurian clades.
Interfacial Phenomena in Polymer Blends: A Self-Consistent Brownian Dynamics Study

We apply a recently proposed multiscale simulation approach to study the dynamical properties of polymer blend interfaces. We use this approach to study the influence of the bulk rheological properties of the polymer blend components upon the slip at unentangled polymer interfaces. Our numerical results agree quite well with the predictions from scaling approaches and phenomenological theories. Moreover, these results also provide a microscopic explanation of the negatively deviating viscosities of polymer blends. We also present results elucidating the slip suppressing influence of block copolymer compatibilizers. Our results suggest that even trace fractions of compatibilizers can suppress slip at polymer interfaces. We study the influences of the molecular weight of the block copolymer and the coverage of block copolymers upon the dynamical properties of polymer blend interfaces, and we suggest some effects that might account for the effect of compatibilizers in the suppression of coalescence during po...
Confronting Intrasexual Rivals 2D:4D Digit Ratio Predicts Behavioral and Endocrinological Responses to Infidelity Threat

The current research sheds light on a physiological mechanism potentially underlying confrontational responses to infidelity. Findings suggest that responses to infidelity threats in adulthood are shaped by hormonally mediated masculinization of the brain in utero. 2D:4D digit ratio (widely regarded as an index of prenatal testosterone exposure) moderated behavioral and endocrinological responses to infidelity threat. After an infidelity prime (but not a control prime), lower (more masculine) 2D:4D was associated with a greater tendency to approach attractive same-sex targets (intrasexual rivals) and with heightened increases in circulating testosterone, a hormone related to a variety of aggressive and confrontational behaviors.
Survival of young patients after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair

Abstract Purpose: This study assessed the cardiovascular disease, perioperative results, and survival after surgical abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in young patients (≤ 50 years) compared with randomly selected older patients who also underwent abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Methods: We reviewed hospital records to identify young and randomly selected control patients (3 for each young patient, ≥ 65 years, matched for year of operation) with degenerative (atherosclerotic) abdominal aortic aneurysms undergoing repair between Jan 1, 1988, and Mar 31, 2000. Patients with congenital aneurysms, pseudoaneurysms, aortic dissections, post-coarctation dilations, aortic infection, arteritis, or aneurysms isolated to the thoracic aorta were excluded. Mortality data and cause of death were obtained from medical records and the National Death Index Results: Among 1168 patients who underwent abdominal aortic aneurysm repairs, 19 young patients (1.6%) and 57 control patients were identified. The mean age was 48.4 years in the young group and 72.2 years in the control group. There were no differences in sex or race between the two groups. When comparing existing cardiovascular disease between the groups, there were no differences in the incidence of earlier coronary revascularization (26% vs 16%) or non-cardiac vascular surgery (5% vs 9%), but aneurysms were more commonly symptomatic in young patients (53% vs 21%; P P =.40) or postoperative complications (37% young vs 26% control; P=.38). The estimated survival rate of the young group was not different from that of the control group (3-year survival rate, 73% vs 69%; P =.32) or the entire cohort of patients (older than 50 years; n=1101) who underwent repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms during the study period (3-year survival 73% vs 75%; P =.63) Conclusion: After abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, young patients had perioperative results and follow-up mortality rates similar to those of control patients. Cardiovascular disease was the predominant cause of death after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in the young patients. When compared with an age older than 50 years at the time of abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, young age alone was not associated with increased survival. (J Vasc Surg 2002;35:94-9.)
Complications of diagnostic cardiac catheterization requiring surgical intervention

Abstract Percutaneous cardiac catheterization for the diagnosis of cardiac disease has now become a routine and safe procedure with widespread application. Rarely, however, complications do occur that require emergency surgical intervention. The results of immediate surgical exploration are usually good; however, the long-term follow-up of these patients is unknown. This study reviews our experience with surgery for complications of cardiac catheterization and the long-term follow-up.
ASPIDODERID NEMATODES FROM BOLIVIAN ARMADILLOS, WITH THE DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES OF LAUROIA (HETERAKOIDEA: ASPIDODERIDAE)

One nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) and 1 yellow armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus) were necropsied in the field during an expedition to collect parasites of mammals in Bolivia. A total of 205 Aspidodera binansata Railliet and Henry, 1913 (Heterakoidea: Aspidoderidae), and 40 specimens of Lauroia bolivari n. sp. (Heterakoidea: Aspidoderidae) were recovered from the cecum and large intestines of D. novemcinctus and E. sexcinctus. Aspidodera esperanzae Fujita et al., 1995, is proposed as a junior synonym of A. binansata based on the structure of the cordons on the hood. Lauroia bolivari n. sp. has an undercut cephalic cap and unequal spicules. It differs from other species in the genus in the shape of the cephalic cap and from Lauroia travassosi Proenca, 1938, in the relative proportion of the spicules. This is the first record of a member of Lauroia Proenca, 1938, for Bolivia.
Biosynthesis of peptidoglycan in Gaffkya homari: on the target(s) of benzylpenicillin.

The formation of acceptor for the N epsilon-(D-Ala)-acceptor transpeptidase is an essential feature of nascent peptidoglycan processing. In Gaffkya homari the synthesis of cross-bridges in peptidoglycan includes a variety of penicillin-sensitive enzymes, e.g., transpeptidase, DD-carboxypeptidase, and LD-carboxypeptidase. To determine the primary target, we grew cultures in the presence of the MICs of benzylpenicillin (0.2 microgram/ml), methicillin (10 micrograms/ml), cephalothin (5 micrograms/ml), and cefoxitin (25 micrograms/ml) and examined the monomer-dimer composition of each peptidoglycan by high-performance liquid chromatography after muramidase digestion. From these studies it was recognized that of all the dimers, the synthesis of the predominant cross-bridge, diamidated octapeptide (-Ala-iso-D-Gln-Lys-D-Ala -Ala-iso-D-Gln-Lys-D-Ala), is most sensitive to the action of the beta-lactam at its MIC. The enhanced deamidation of the acceptor tetrapeptide, one of the substrates for the transpeptidase, is correlated with the inhibition of this cross-bridge. For example, at the MIC of benzylpenicillin, the ratio of amidated tetrapeptide to nonamidated tetrapeptide decreased from 2.8 in the control to 1.0 in the treated culture. From these results it would appear that a decrease in preferred acceptor for the transpeptidase results in the inhibition of synthesis of this major cross-bridge. Thus, the metabolism of the amide function of the monomer peptides may represent an additional feature of processing in the assembly of cross-bridged dimers in the peptidoglycan of this organism that is sensitive to the action of beta-lactam.
Adaptive paraunitary filter banks for principal and minor subspace analysis

Paraunitary filter banks are important for several signal processing tasks. We consider the task of adapting the coefficients of a multichannel FIR paraunitary filter bank via gradient ascent or descent on a chosen cost function. The proposed generalized algorithms inherently adapt the system's parameters in the space of paraunitary filters. Modifications and simplifications of the techniques for spatio-temporal principal and minor subspace analysis are described. Simulations verify one algorithm's useful behavior in this task.
Effectiveness of a circulating-water warming garment in rewarming after pediatric cardiac surgery using hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the ALLON 2001 microprocessor-based thermoregulation system in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery requiring hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass compared with the routine thermal care. Design: Prospective randomized clinical study. Setting: Single tertiary academic medical center. Participants: Infants (0-1 year) who underwent congenital heart surgery requiring hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass (n 18). Patients with open wounds and/or patients treated with an investigational drug or device within 30 days of surgery were excluded. Interventions: Randomized use of thermoregulation system (warming garment, n 9) or routine thermal care (control, n 9) after separating from cardiopulmonary bypass until the arrival to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Measurements and Main Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the demographic data, cardiopulmonary bypass time, operating room time, incidence of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest, and cooling temperature between the groups. The nasopharyngeal temperature was significantly higher in the warming garment group after separation from cardiopulmonary bypass. Nasopharyngeal temperature at 20 minutes was 36.5°C versus 35.01°C (p 0.0047), at 40 minutes was 36.98°C versus 35.30°C (p 0.034), and at admission to the PICU was 36.09°C versus 35.31°C (p not significant). There was no difference in the core-to-peripheral temperature gradient (nasopharyngealto-skin temperature) between the 2 study groups at any time point. No adverse events related to the use of the warming garment thermoregulation system were observed. Conclusion: The investigated thermoregulation system was effective in preventing the after-drop of temperature that occurs after cardiopulmonary bypass in small infants compared with routine warming methods. © 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Diagnosis of single gate failures in combinational circuits

Two procedures are presented for detecting and diagnosing arbitrary single-gate failures in combinational logic circuits. A gate is defined as any multiple-input single-output combinational circuit, and a failure is any detectable transformation of the correct gate function. The testing procedures do not require the construction of a fault table and will locate, to within an equivalence class, the faulty gate and describe its failure.
Unified averaged switch models for stability analysis of large distributed power systems

Unified averaged switch models for PWM converters are presented. The models are applicable for both continuous and discontinuous conduction modes. They have been implemented in SABER and are intended for stability analysis of large distributed power systems. In addition to their simplicity and improved accuracy over existing models, the new models are also capable of providing inductor ripple information. This makes it possible to implement peak current limiting and other protection functions, which is important for large-signal stability analysis of distributed power systems, but has not been possible with existing averaged models. Simulation results from both a DC/DC and a power factor corrected AC/DC converters are presented to validate the accuracy of the models and to demonstrate the robustness of the implementation, especially under abnormal operation conditions.
Dermatomyositis and multiple malignancies in a patient treated with methotrexate

Dermatomyositis (DM) has been linked to internal malignancy but this relationship is quite variable in respect to tumor type and time sequence. The occurrence of multiple cancers in an individual with DM is rare. Immunosuppressive agents, particularly methotrexate have been used increasingly in corticosteroid resistant cases or for their corticosteroid sparing effects. These agents have not been implicated in the development of malignancy in patients with DM. A patient with a uterine adenocarcinoma developed DM that despite tumor removal was not responsive to corticosteroids. She was successfully treated with methotrexate for 18 months. She has subsequently developed an adenocarcinoma of the breast. The relationship of malignancy and DM as well as the role of methotrexate in the development of the second primary will be discussed.
Reliability physics in electronics: a historical view

This paper traces the development of the reliability approach for microelectronic devices. It discusses the pressures on the early military microelectronics industry to improve the reliability of individual parts making up the complex equipment. This pressure led to the need for a new approach to designing and evaluating these parts. The resulting birth of reliability physics is covered in detail, followed by the subsequent growth and eventually the creation of many specialty areas within reliability physics.
The international economy as a constraint on U. S. macroeconomic policymaking

International economic factors increasingly influence American trade and exchange policy, and interdependence also circumscribes the autonomous choice of domestic policies. But the growing concern of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) policymakers over the potential for macroeconomic policy coordination to enhance national as well as world welfare implies that international economic relations present opportunities rather than constraints under some circumstances. This suggests that understanding domestic economic policy choice within its international context involves not only how policy choices are made within the bounds of international constraints, but also when countries might cooperate to modify the constraints themselves. This research looks to four important historical cases for information on these questions: the first three are the series of cumulating crises in the international monetary system during the 1960s and early 1970s, the fourth is the energy supply shock of 1973 and the recession that followed. The article describes the process of policy selection in each of these cases, contrasting domestic versus international premises for policy choice. The economics literature has emphasized the magnitude of domestic welfare gains available from coordinated national economic policies. Although the cases considered here do not contradict the importance of payoffs, they underline the corresponding role of political, economic, and strategic uncertainty in conditioning elites' policy choices.
Microstructural Differences in Silver-Tin Dental Amalgams Prepared from Chip and Spherical Alloy Particles

X-ray diffraction data support the stoichiometric requirement of the silver-tin amalgamation reaction that "unreacted y" diminish with increasing mercury. But particles corresponding to the original shape are visible in commercial spherical alloy amalgams. This is a "ghost" microstructure that results from internal amalgamation along dendrite branches of particles that have not been homogenized.
The Psychology of Moral Conviction

This paper reviews current theory and research that indicates that attitudes held with strong moral conviction (‘moral mandates’) represent something psychologically distinct from other constructs (e.g., attitude strength, partisanship, or religiosity), and that variance in moral conviction has important social and political consequences, such as increased intolerance of attitudinally dissimilar others, difficulties in conflict resolution, increased political participation, willingness to accept violent means to achieve preferred ends, strong ties to positive and negative emotions, and inoculation against the usual pressures to obey authorities, obey the law, or to conform to majority group influence. The normative implications of these findings are both reassuring (moral convictions can protect against obedience to potentially malevolent authorities) and terrifying (moral convictions are associated with rejection of the rule of law, and can provide a motivational foundation for violent protest and acts of terrorism). Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
State-dependent trajectory planning and tracking control of unmanned surface vessels

A new method combining trajectory planning, tracking and coordinated control for unmanned surface vessels is presented based on nonlinear sliding mode control. A limiting factor of sliding mode tracking control is that it can only guarantee position tracking as long as the vessel initial conditions are on the desired trajectory. In this work, a transitional trajectory between the vessel initial condition and the desired trajectory path is implemented using a set of two ordinary differential equations (ODEs) in terms of the position state feedbacks such that the ODE solution converges to the desired trajectory path. An additional advantage of this approach is that when the ODE represents a limit cycle, it can be used for coordinating multiple vessel trajectories without any possibility of collision. Several simulations are presented where the vessel successfully reaches and follows a desired trajectory starting from a variety of initial starting conditions.
miR-217 Mediates the Protective Effects of the Dopamine D2 Receptor on Fibrosis in Human Renal Proximal Tubule Cells

Lack or downregulation of the dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) increases the vulnerability to renal inflammation independent of blood pressure in mice. Common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs6276, 6277, and 1800497 in the human D2R gene are associated with decreased receptor expression/function and hypertension. Human renal proximal tubule cells from subjects carrying these SNPs have decreased D2R expression and increased expression of profibrotic factors and production of extracellular matrix proteins. We tested the hypothesis that the D2R mediates these effects by regulating micro-RNA expression. In cells carrying D2R SNPs, micro-RNAs (miRs)-217, miR-224, miR-335, and miR-1265 were downregulated, whereas miR-1290 was upregulated >4-fold compared with those carrying D2R wild-type alleles. However, only miR-217 was directly regulated by D2R expression. In cells carrying D2R wild-type, miR-217 inhibitor increased the expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, matrix metalloproteinase 3, fibronectin 1, and collagen 1a, whereas miR-217 mimic had the opposite effect. In cells carrying D2R SNPs, miR-217 mimic also decreased the expression of TGFβ1 and its targets. Wnt5a, a miR-217 target, was increased in cells carrying D2R SNPs and decreased by miR-217 mimic but increased by miR-217 inhibitor in both cell types. In cells carrying D2R wild-type, Wnt5a treatment increased TGFβ1 while silencing Ror2, a Wnt5a receptor, decreased TGFβ1 and blunted the Wnt5a-induced increase in cells carrying D2R wild-type. Our results show that renal proximal tubule cells from subjects carrying D2R SNPs resulting in D2R downregulation have increased TGFβ1 that is mediated by decreased regulation of the miR-217-Wnt5a-Ror2 pathway.
Adiponectin and IGFBP-1 in the development of gestational diabetes in obese mothers.

Objective Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is more common in pregnancies complicated by obesity and both diseases increase the risk for fetal overgrowth and long-term adverse health consequences for the mother and child. Previous studies have linked low maternal serum adiponectin to GDM in normal and overweight women. We hypothesized that lower adiponectin, in particular the high-molecular-weight form, and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) and its binding protein (IGFBP-1) are associated with GDM in pregnant obese Hispanic women. Methods 72 obese, predominantly Hispanic (92%), women were recruited at 24–28 weeks of gestation. Adiposity was assessed, fasting serum samples were collected, and glucose, insulin, triglyceride, cholesterol levels, adipokines, and hormones associated with obesity and insulin resistance were measured. 30 women had been recently diagnosed with GDM. Results Gestational weeks, body mass index, triceps skinfold thickness, mid-arm circumference, serum leptin, IGF-I, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin-6 did not differ in the two groups. Obese women with GDM had significantly higher fasting glucose, A1C, triglycerides, very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, adiponectin, and IGFBP-1 compared to obese women without GDM. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance was positively correlated to IGF-I and negatively correlated to adiponectin. Conclusions Obese pregnant women with recently diagnosed GDM had a significantly exacerbated metabolic profile, low serum adiponectin and IGFBP-1 levels at 24–28 weeks of gestation, as compared to women with obesity alone. Because low adiponectin is well established to cause insulin resistance and decreased IGFBP-1 indicates increased IGF-I bioavailability, we propose that these changes are mechanistically linked to the development of GDM in obese Hispanic women.
Simian Immunodeficiency Virus SIVsab Infection of Rhesus Macaques as a Model of Complete Immunological Suppression with Persistent Reservoirs of Replication-Competent Virus: Implications for Cure Research

Simian immunodeficiency virus SIVsab infection is completely controlled in rhesus macaques (RMs) through functional immune responses. We report that in SIVsab-infected RMs, (i) viral replication is controlled to <0 to 3 copies/ml, (ii) about one-third of the virus strains in reservoirs are replication incompetent, and (iii) rebounding virus after CD8(+) cell depletion is replication competent and genetically similar to the original virus stock, suggesting early reservoir seeding. This model permits assessment of strategies aimed at depleting the reservoir without multidrug antiretroviral therapy.
Evaluating genome architecture of a complex region via generalized bipartite matching

With the remarkable development in inexpensive sequencing technologies and supporting computational tools, we have the promise of medicine being personalized by knowledge of the individual genome. Current technologies provide high throughput, but short reads. Reconstruction of the donor genome is based either on de novo assembly of the (short) reads, or on mapping donor reads to a standard reference. While such techniques demonstrate high success rates for inferring ‘simple’ genomic segments, they are confounded by segments with complex duplication patterns, including regions of direct medical relevance, like the HLA and the KIR regions. In this work, we address this problem with a method for assessing the quality of a predicted genome sequence for complex regions of the genome. This method combines two natural types of evidence: sequence similarity of the mapped reads to the predicted donor genome, and distribution of reads across the predicted genome. We define a new scoring function for read-to-genome matchings, which penalizes for sequence dissimilarities and deviations from expected read location distribution, and present an efficient algorithm for finding matchings that minimize the penalty. The algorithm is based on a formal problem, first defined in this paper, called Coverage Sensitive manyto-many min-cost bipartite Matching (CSM). This new problem variant generalizes the standard (one-to-one) weighted bipartite matching problem, and can be solved using network flows. The resulting Java-based tool, called SAGE (Scoring function for Assembled GEnomes), is freely available upon request. We demonstrate over simulated data that SAGE can be used to infer correct haplotypes of the highly repetitive KIR region on the Human chromosome 19.
Effect of rhIGF-I infusion on whole fetal and fetal skeletal muscle protein metabolism in sheep.

Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) has been shown to have significant anabolic effects in the regulation of fetal protein metabolism. To investigate the tissue-specific effects of IGF-I on fetal skeletal muscle metabolism, we infused recombinant human (rh) IGF-I directly into the hindlimb of nine chronically catheterized, late-gestation fetal sheep. Substrate balance and amino acid kinetics were measured across the hindlimb and were compared with the effects at the whole body level before and during a 3-h infusion of rhIGF-I into the external iliac artery at 150 μg/h. Infusion of rhIGF-I resulted in increases in IGF-I concentrations by 2- to 5.75-fold in the ipsilateral iliac vein and by nearly 3-fold in the abdominal aorta. In the study limb, IGF-I had no effect on protein synthesis (phenylalanine rate of disposal 0.88 ± 0.13 before vs. 0.73 ± 0.19 μmol/min during IGF-I) or breakdown (phenylalanine rate of appearance 0.67 ± 0.13 before vs. 0.60 ± 0.17 μmol/min during IGF-I) and did not alter net phenylalanine balance. IGF-I also did not affect hindlimb oxygen or glucose uptake. In contrast, at the whole body level, the rate of appearance of leucine, indicative of fetal protein breakdown, decreased during IGF-I infusion (rate of appearance of leucine 41.1 ± 3.3 to 37.6 ± 2.7 μmol/min) as did fetal leucine oxidation (8.4 ± 0.8 to 6.8 ± 0.6 μmol/min). There was no change in the umbilical uptake of leucine, and although not statistically significant, fetal leucine accretion increased 2.4-fold. These results provide further evidence that IGF-I promotes fetal protein accretion; however, its site of action is in tissues other than skeletal muscle.
Can We Believe the Stories about Biko?: Oral Sources, Meaning, and Emotion in South African Struggle History

This article explores the use of oral sources in constructing South Africa’s Black Consciousness movement history, including the difficulties in dealing with oral histories dominated by the figure of Steve Biko. It argues that despite its limitations, historians can use oral history to effectively pursue both the actual past and the contemporary meaning of oral history in a balanced way. It further argues that in doing so, historians should respectfully, yet critically incorporate emotions expressed in these interviews into their analyses to provide a richer and more accurate history. Resume: Cet article examine l’utilisation des sources orales pour la construction de l’histoire du mouvement de Conscience Noire en Afrique du Sud. Il se penche en particulier sur la difficulte d’etudier des histoires orales dominees par la figure de Steve Biko. Son argument principal est que les historiens peuvent utiliser l’histoire orale, malgre ses limites, pour comprendre tout aussi bien les faits du passe que leur signification actuelle. De la sorte, les historiens devraient incorporer avec respect et esprit critique les emotions exprimees lors de leurs entretiens dans leurs analyses pour ecrire une histoire plus precise et fouillee.
Dendritic Cells Restore CD8+ T Cell Reactivity to Autologous HIV-1

ABSTRACT Recall T cell responses to HIV-1 antigens are used as a surrogate for endogenous cellular immune responses generated during infection. Current methods of identifying antigen-specific T cell reactivity in HIV-1 infection use bulk peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) yet ignore professional antigen-presenting cells (APC) that could reveal otherwise hidden responses. In the present study, peptides representing autologous variants of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-restricted epitopes from HIV-1 Gag and Env were used as antigens in gamma interferon (IFN-γ) enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISpot) and polyfunctional cytokine assays. Here we show that dendritic cells (DC) enhanced T cell reactivity at all stages of disease progression but specifically restored T cell reactivity after combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) to early infection levels. Type 1 cytokine secretion was also enhanced by DC and was most apparent late post-cART. We additionally show that DC reveal polyfunctional T cell responses after many years of treatment, when potential immunotherapies would be implemented. These data underscore the potential efficacy of DC immunotherapy that aims to awaken a dormant, autologous, HIV-1-specific CD8 + T cell response. IMPORTANCE Assessment of endogenous HIV-1-specific T cell responses is critical for generating immunotherapies for subjects on cART. Current assays ignore the ability of dendritic cells to reveal these responses and may therefore underestimate the breadth and magnitude of T cell reactivity. As DC do not prime new responses in these assays, it can be assumed that the observed responses are not detected without appropriate stimulation. This is important because dogma states that HIV-1 mutates to evade host recognition and that CD8 + cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) failure is due to the inability of T cells to recognize the autologous virus. The results presented here indicate that responses to autologous virus are generated during infection but may need additional stimulation to be effective. Detecting the breadth and magnitude of HIV-1-specific T cell reactivity generated in vivo is of the utmost importance for generating effective DC immunotherapies.
Towards real-time testing of clocked Quantum Dot Cellular Automata

We present a real-time measurement of electron switching in clocked Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata (QCA) circuit, a QCA latch. A capacitively coupled radio frequency single electron transistor (RF-SET) with carrier frequency at 991.2 MHz is used as read-out electrometer. Reflection-mode detection of the SET impedance provides a fast response to changes of charge configuration in the latch dots. We demonstrate a QCA latch with operating temperature above 300 milli-Kelvin and clocking speed of 5 µsec.
Cocaine Shifts the Estrus Cycle Out of Phase and Caffeine Restores It.

Background: Sex differences in cocaine abuse are well established. Females have a higher sensitivity and thus higher vulnerability to cocaine abuse compared to males. There are many studies showing that sensitivity to cocaine reward varies during the estrus cycle. Methods: Vaginal smears were examined through a DIFF staining kit and viewed through a microscope to determine the estrus cycle stage. Smears were taken immediately before and after cocaine and/or caffeine injections. Furthermore, we suggest a new tool to analyze the estrus cycle by using electrical resistance of the vaginal mucosa. Results: In the present study, we discovered that cocaine directly induced changes in the estrus cycle. Interestingly, caffeine did not affect the estrus cycle and nor did the combination of cocaine and caffeine. We observed that caffeine blocked the cocaine-induced estrus cycle changes using conventional exfoliate cytology. Therefore, caffeine may have neuroprotective properties on the changes induced by cocaine. Conclusion: These phase changes in the estrus cycle may be the underlying cause of sex differences in cocaine addiction that can be blocked by caffeine. Thus, we propose a valuable insight into sex differences in cocaine abuse and reveal a possible treatment with antagonizing the adenosine system.
Central Sensitivity Syndromes: An Overview

ABSTRACT.Objective: To discuss the concept of central sensitivity syndromes [CSS] and its significance. An overview of the current literature was incorporated with the author's insight and views.Findings: A good number of disorders that show clinical overlap with fibromyalgia syndrome also meet the Yunus criteria for CSS. These criteria are based essentially on two components: mutual associations and evidence for central sensitization [CS] among them. While CS is likely to be the common binding glue for the CSS diseases, other pathophysiological mechanisms may also be involved. CSS is based on a biopsychosocial model.Conclusions: The CSS seems to be an important concept for future research and medical education, as well as patient care.
Kristen Holm, Ph.D., Movie and Play Reviews Editor. Review of Little Miss Sunshine

Little Miss Sunshine. 2007. Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris. Little Miss Sunshine, directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, is an Oscar-winning performance filled with humor, tr...
Orbit Stability Determination of Satellites Using Harmonic Force Excitation Analysis

The focus of this paper is the determination of orbit stability of a small satellite around an asteroid with a complex gravitational field using harmonic force excitation analysis. The determination of stable orbits is critical in space mission planning, especially in deep space missions investigating asteroids having undetermined mass distribution. Many of these asteroids have complex gravitational fields that make close orbits, which are necessary for inspection, very difficult to predict and safely maintain. Simulations of the asteroid Itokawa, which was visited and analyzed by the Hayabusa Space Mission, have shown such complex gravitational fields. Orbit simulations using Systems Tool Kit (STK) software have demonstrated many interesting phenomena resulting from the nonlinear satellite/asteroid interaction. One behavior of special note was the influence of the rate of spin of the asteroid and the stability of the orbit. This behavior was found to be linked to the frequency and magnitude of the gravitational excitation force along with altitude of the orbiting satellite. A harmonic force excitation analysis of the system was shown to be an accurate predictor of orbital stability. The resulting frequency ratio determined is shown to predict regions where complex gravity effects are significant.
Lanthana-doped ceria as active support for oxygen carriers in chemical looping combustion

Abstract The redox properties and oxygen buffering capacity of reducible oxides, such as ceria, make them interesting support materials for oxygen carriers in Chemical Looping Combustion (CLC), an emerging clean combustion technology. However, the effectiveness of reducible oxides for redox applications depends crucially on oxygen mobility in the oxide lattice. In the present work, we demonstrate that addition of an aliovalent dopant (La) strongly enhances oxygen mobility in ceria, resulting in multiple performance benefits. A series of La-doped ceria (LaxCe1−xO2−x/2, 0
A Commentary on Teichmüller's paper ``Vollständige Lösung einer Extremalaufgabe der quasikonformen Abbildung" (Complete solution of an extremal problem of the quasiconformal mapping)

We comment on Teichmuller 's paper "Vollstandige Losung einer Extremalaufgabe der quasikonformen Abbildung" (Complete solution of an ex-tremal problem of the quasiconformal mapping),, published in 1941. In this paper, Teichmuller gives a proof of the existence of extremal quasiconformal mappings in the case of the pentagon (disc with five distinguished points on the boundary). The final version of this paper will appear as a chapter in Volume VI of the Handbook of Teichmuller theory.
A Dynamic Network Modeling-Based Approach for Traffic Observability Problem

This paper presents a novel approach for studying the observability problem on a general topology of a traffic freeway network. We develop a new framework, which investigates observability in terms of flow and routing information on the network arcs. We utilize lumped-parameter-based ordinary differential equation (ODE) setting to model traffic $(\rho)$ dynamics on a network arc and then combine it with the ODE model of routing $(\pi)$ dynamics to develop a state-space model for the network. We then linearize the network dynamics about steady-state flow, calculate the observability matrix, and apply the rank condition test on it. Some of the problems addressed in the paper include the following: identification of essential and redundant measurements in the context of observability, and verification of the sufficiency of a given set of states for the observability of the system. In particular, three different observability problems are formulated and solved using the proposed framework. The methodology is then illustrated by its application on carefully chosen network examples from the commonly encountered traffic freeway scenarios. A theorem and a corollary providing a necessary condition for observability are also proved. Finally, a conjecture based on the observations from the solved network examples is provided.
Chemical Synthesis of Staphyloferrin B Affords Insight into the Molecular Structure, Iron Chelation, and Biological Activity of a Polycarboxylate Siderophore Deployed by the Human Pathogen Staphylococcus aureus

Staphyloferrin B (SB) is a citrate-based polycarboxylate siderophore produced and utilized by the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus for acquiring iron when colonizing the vertebrate host. The first chemical synthesis of SB is reported, which enables further molecular and biological characterization and provides access to structural analogues of the siderophore. Under conditions of iron limitation, addition of synthetic SB to bacterial growth medium recovered the growth of the antibiotic resistant community isolate S. aureus USA300 JE2. Two structural analogues of SB, epiSB and SBimide, were also synthesized and employed to investigate how epimerization of the citric acid moiety or imide formation influence its function as a siderophore. Epimerization of the citric acid stereocenter perturbed the iron-binding properties and siderophore function of SB as evidenced by experimental and computational modeling studies. Although epiSB provided growth recovery to S. aureus USA300 JE2 cultured in iron-deficient...
Determinants of the Biologic Activity of Surface Slime In Experimental Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections

A purified fraction of the extracellular slime of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, characterized chemically as a glycolipoprotein (GLP), has been identified as responsible for a number of biologic properties of the viable cell. Mice immunized actively or passively against GLP are protected against an otherwise lethal challenge with viable bacteria. GLP is chemically, physically, and antigenically distinct from the lipopolysaccharide of the same strain. An in vivo association of GLP with blood leukocytes has been demonstrated, and the leukopenia in mice following challenge with P. aeruginosa may be accounted for by the subsequent sequestration of a neutrophil-GLP complex in the liver. Anti-GLP serum in the absence of complement mediates the phagocytosis and eventual killing of viable P. aeruginosa by mouse polymorphonuclear leukocytes and unstimulated peritoneal macrophages. A polysaccharide fraction isolated from the GLP is responsible for its protective immunogenicity. Although the lipid moiety governs the leukopenic and lethal capacities, the carbohydrate, specifically the mannose of this moiety, is required for full expression of GLP lethality. Mannose is also an immunodominant sugar. The interaction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with the host is complex, and no general agreement exists on the molecular events underlying its pathogenesis. Of the cellular products under consideration as virulence factors, the surface slime,
Laboratory trapping studies with Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera:Curculionidae).

Corrugated cardboard traps (Storgard®, Trece, Salinas, Calif.) were used to test attractive properties of combinations of synthetic pheromone and various food odors to maize weevils, Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky, in laboratory test arenas. In both two- and four-choice tests, maize weevils preferred the (4S,5R) isomer of 5-hydroxy-4-methyl-3-heptanone (sitophinone) to the other three isomers. Cracked wheat was a stronger attractant than either whole wheat, wheat germ oil, or water. A strong synergistic effect between the (4S,5R) isomer and cracked wheat was demonstrated. Maize weevils were successfully lured out of a food source only when both cracked wheat and ( 4S,5R )-sitophinone were present in the trap. Only a slight reduction in catch was observed as weevils aged.
Examining Drivers’ Perception of Internal and External Distracter Risk and Predictors of These Perceptions

Although a large number of studies have investigated the effects of distracted driving, relatively few studies have examined the drivers’ perspective of distracter risk. Better understanding of this perspective should help in the important development of road safety instruction. The current study expands on previous research assessing drivers’ distracter risk perception by including a larger number of and more detailed distracters overall, as well as the inclusion of personality measures as possible correlates of distracter risk perception. Results demonstrated a wide difference in risk ratings across the 31 distracters, with internal-to-vehicle dis-tracters overall having a higher risk rating than external-to-vehicle distracters. Mental concentration required for the distracter was significantly correlated with average distracter risk, with more mental concentration corresponding to higher risk ratings in general. Individuals who rated higher on external locus of control rated higher on average external-...
Glucagon-lnduced Desensitization of Broiler Adipocyte Lipolysis

Abstract Continuous exposure of cells to a hormonal stimulus results in attenuation of the hormone's effects on the cell; a process known as desensitization. The present study was undertaken to determine whether glucagon (GLU) induces desensitization of its lipolytic effect in adipocytes isolated from the abdominal fat of market-age broilers. Preincubation of adipocytes with 10 to 100 ng/mL of porcine GLU (pGLU) or chicken GLU (cGLU) for 24 h reduced (P
Psychosocial changes perceived by closed-head-injured adults and their families.

Responses of 20 closed-head-injured adults with moderate to good recovery (Glascow Coma Outcome Scale), 20 controls, and 13 family members were statistically compared in a questionnaire study of the relative importance of cognitive, emotional, and physical changes. Perceptions of preinjury psychosocial and preinjury and postinjury employment status were also evaluated. Significant changes in psychosocial functioning were perceived. Cognitive changes were rated as more extreme than changes in emotions by head-injured subjects, whereas ratings of cognitive, emotional, or physical changes did not differ significantly in ratings of family members. A between-group comparison indicated that family members tended to rate emotional changes as more extreme than did head-injury subjects. Degree of physical change was the only change that was correlated in the responses of head-injured subjects and family members. Differences in perceptions may limit long-term progress in rehabilitation. Explanations for the results include differences between family members and head-injured adults in awareness and understanding of the cognitive and emotional sequelae to head injury. Implications for involving families in counseling of head-injured adults are discussed. Language: en
Application of superheated steam temperature switching systems based on single-neuron self-adaptive PSD predictive control

A switching control system of boiler's superheated steam temperature based on single-neuron self-adaptive proportional sum differential(PSD) predictive controller is proposed in this paper,in which a compound controller to improve the control characteristics of large-lag and multi-interferer systems is combined with single-neuron self-adaptive PSD controller and Levinson predictive controller.Configuration design including undisturbed switching,feed-forward compensation and anti-saturation of integrator is made with DCS control platform of Foxboro I/A series to realize manual/auto switch and switching between controllers.A large number of simulations in the lab and practical results in the power plant show the satisfactory control quality.
Produced Fluid Proflle Logging Data Analysis and Interpretation in Steamflooding Heavy Oil Wells

In view of the problems in production logging fluid profile interpretation in steamflooding heavy oil wells the methods and principles for production logging fluid profile interpreting in steamflooding heavy oil wells are discussed based on the physical properties of heavy oil reservoir and production characteristics in heavy oil production wells. Feasibility of the interpreting method is demonstrated through a-nalysis and interpretation of original data in practical production.