Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Prosthetic Replacement of the Hip in Dogs Using Bioactive Bone Cement

Total hip arthroplasties were performed in dogs using bioactive bone cement consisting of silane treated CaO-MgO-SiO2-P2O5-CaF2 glass powder as the filling particles and bisphenol-a-glycidyl methacrylate based resin as the organic matrix, and the outcomes were compared with the results of polymethylmethacrylate bone cement. The mechanical properties of the bioactive bone cement were stronger than the mechanical properties of polymethylmethacrylate bone cement. The bonding strength of the bioactive bone cement to bone in dogs' femora increased with time, reaching 4.7 MPa at 6 months, whereas that of polymethylmethacrylate bone cement did not increase, remaining at 1.0 MPa. Results of histologic examination showed direct bonding between the bioactive bone cement and bone, and the bony trabeculae around the cement mantle grew with time. However, in polymethylmethacrylate bone cement, an intervening soft tissue layer was evident at the bone cement interface. Direct bonding of the bioactive bone cement at the interface through an apatite layer of 30 µm in thickness was shown through observation with the scanning electron microscopy. Using this bioactive bone cement in clinical settings may help alleviate serious problems associated with cemented total hip arthroplasty, such as aseptic loosening of the implant and mechanical failure of the bone cement.
Magnetization Reversal and Domain Replication in Co–Au–Co Film with Perpendicular Anisotropy

The Co-0.6 nm-Au-wedge (1.7-3 nm)-Co-0.6 nm layered structure was investigated using a magnetooptical Kerr effect. The analysis of major and minor hysteresis loops measured at consecutive points along the wedge of an Au spacer indicates that the structure is characterized by perpendicular anisotropy of Co layers, different switching fields, and by a continuous transition from ferromagnetic (F) to antiferromagnetic (AF) coupling. The study of the minor hysteresis loops, registered when the magnetically harder layer was only partially reversed, allowing us to prove that the process takes place through a distinct intermediate state corresponding to the copying of domains in AF or F configuration. The field range in which that the state is preserved broadens with increasing interaction irrespective of its sign.
Competitive Exchange Rate and Public Infrastructure in a Macrodynamic of Economic Growth

We develop a dual open-economy model which incorporates a flow of public infrastructure as a factor of production to investigate effects of a competitive exchange rate policy under different levels of provision of public infrastructure. It is suggested that an exchange rate policy coordinated with a public infrastructure policy should produce better results. By increasing productivity in the tradable sector and by reducing inflationary pressures, this supply-side public policy contributes to the success of an economic growth strategy led by a competitive currency.
Mycobacterial heparin-binding hemagglutinin and laminin-binding protein share antigenic methyllysines that confer resistance to proteolysis

Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacteriumbovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin produce a heparin-binding hemagglutinin adhesin (HBHA) required for extrapulmonary dissemination and a laminin-binding protein (LBP) involved in cytoadherence through laminin recognition. These adhesins bear posttranslational modifications that are not present when the proteins are produced in a recombinant (r) form in Escherichia coli. Mass spectrometry analysis of HBHA revealed that the posttranslational modifications are borne by the C-terminal moiety, which comprises the heparin-binding domain made of repeated lysine-rich motifs. Amino acid sequencing showed that these modifications consist of mono- and dimethyllysines within these motifs. The methyllysine-containing repeats were recognized by mAb 4057D2 and were also detected in LBP, which is equally recognized by mAb 4057D2. This Ab does not recognize the recombinant forms of these proteins. However, when rHBHA and rLBP were subjected to NaBH4 and formalin treatment to induce lysine methylation, reactivity with mAb 4057D2 was recovered. Methylated rHBHA displayed enhanced resistance to proteolysis compared with rHBHA, as previously observed for native HBHA. S-adenosylmethionine-dependent HBHA methyltransferase activity was detected in the cell-wall fractions of M. bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin and of Mycobacteriumsmegmatis, a species that produces LBP but naturally lacks hbhA, suggesting that the same enzyme(s) methylate(s) both LBP and HBHA. This hypothesis was confirmed by the fact that HBHA produced by recombinant M. smegmatis was also methylated. These results show that mycobacteria use enzymatic methylation of lysines to ensure greater stability of their adhesins.
Characterization of Ca2+-Channels Responsible for K+-Evoked [3H]Noradrenaline Release from Rat Brain Cortex Synaptosomes and Their Response to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis IgGs

The contribution of the different Ca(2+)-channel subtypes to the K(+)-evoked [(3)H]noradrenaline release from rat cerebral cortex synaptosomes has been investigated. In the same experimental model, it was also verified whether the calcium-mediated neurotransmitter release is influenced by IgGs purified from sera of seven patients affected by sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Synaptosome treatment with 3.0 microM nifedipine or 2.0 microM calciseptine, which block L-type channels, slightly decreased [(3)H]noradrenaline release, the reduction being 7 and 13% of the control values, respectively. The blockade of N-type Ca(2+)-channels with omega-conotoxin-GVIA (0.001-1.0 microM) induced a concentration-dependent reduction of the neurotransmitter release, with maximum effect of 34%. omega-Agatoxin-IVA failed to significantly affect the studied release, which was instead markedly reduced by omega-conotoxin-MVIIC. After the blockade of N-type channels with maximal concentrations of omega-conotoxin-GVIA, 3.0 microM omega-conotoxin-MVIIC reduced the release by 58%. Synaptosome treatment with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis IgGs enhanced the K(+)-evoked [(3)H]noradrenaline release, which was mostly mediated by P/Q- and N-type Ca(2+)-channels. The increase induced by pathologic IgGs (0.2 mg/ml) ranged from 11 to 62% for the different patients, and it was concentration-dependent. The basal release was instead unaffected by IgG treatment. The results of the present study suggest that the K(+)-evoked [(3)H]noradrenaline release from brain cortex synaptosomes is mainly mediated by activation of P/Q- and N-type Ca(2+)-channels. Autoantibodies present in the sera of patients affected by sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis may interact with these channels by producing an increased calcium influx, with consequent enhancement of the neurotransmitter release. Preliminary results of the present study have been published in abstract form (Martire et al., 1997, Pharmacol. Res. 35:9).
Catalyst free low temperature direct growth of carbon nanotubes

A metal catalyst free direct growth process has been developed for the CVD of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on carbon implanted SiGe islands or Ge dots on Si substrates. From TEM and Raman measurements, the fabricated CNTs are identified as single-walled CNTs (SWNTs) with diameter ranging from 1.2 to 2.1 nm. Essential parts of the substrate preparation after SiGe or Ge dot growth and carbon ion implantation are a chemical oxidation and preheating at 1000/spl deg/C prior to CNT growth. We believe that the lower melting point of Ge and oxidation enhanced surface decomposition assist the formation of carbon clusters.
Interstellar Shock Waves

An understanding of interstellar shock waves is crucial in determining the structure of the interstellar medium. By causing the gas to radiate, interstellar shocks provide astronomers with valuable diagnostics on both the physical conditions in the interstellar medium and the energy source that produced the shock. The complexity of the interstellar plasma—its degree of ionization, its molecular content, the presence of small dust grains and cosmic rays, and the magnetic field—leads to a rich variety of structures for interstellar shocks, which are being actively investigated both observationally and theoretically.
Activated protein C improves lipopolysaccharide-induced cardiovascular dysfunction by decreasing tissular inflammation and oxidative stress*

Background:Recombinant human activated Protein C (APC) is used as an adjunctive therapeutic treatment in septic shock. APC seemingly acts on coagulation-inflammation interaction but also by decreasing proinflammatory gene activity, thus inhibiting subsequent production of proinflammatory cytokines, NO and NO-induced mediators, reactive oxygen species production and leukocyte-endothelium interaction. The hemodynamic effects of APC on arterial pressure and cardiac function are now well established in animal models. However, the specific effects of APC on heart and vessels have never been studied. Objectives:To investigate the potential protective properties of therapeutic ranges of APC on a rat endotoxic shock model in terms of anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective pathways. Design:Laboratory investigation. Setting:University medical center research laboratory. Interventions:Rats were exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (10 mg/Kg intravenous). Endotoxic shock was treated with infusion of saline with or without APC (33 &mgr;g/kg/h) during 4 hrs. Hemodynamic parameters were continuously assessed and measurements of muscle oxygen partial pressures, NO and superoxide anion (O2−) by spin trapping, of NF-&kgr;B, metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) by Western blotting, as well as leukocyte infiltration and MMP-9 activity were performed at both the heart and aorta level (tissue). Main Results:APC partially prevented the reduction of blood pressure induced by LPS and improved both vascular hyporeactivity and myocardial performance. This was associated with a decreased up-regulation of NF-&kgr;B, iNOS and MMP-9. LPS-induced tissue increases in NO and O2− production were decreased by APC. Furthermore, APC decreased tissue leukocyte infiltration/activation as assessed by a decrease in myeloperoxydase and matrix metalloproteinase 9 activity. Conclusions:These data suggest that APC improves cardiovascular function: 1) by modulating the endotoxin induced-proinflammatory/prooxydant state, 2) by decreasing endothelial/leukocyte interaction and 3) by favoring stabilization of the extracellular matrix.
Investment–uncertainty relationship: differences between intangible and physical capital

ABSTRACT This paper disentangles the effects of uncertainty in explaining the heterogeneity of firms’ investments. In particular, following Bloom [2007. “Uncertainty and the Dynamics of R&D. ” American Economic Review 97 (2): 250–255], we test the role of uncertainty and liquidity constraints extending the model to include R&D, non-R&D intangibles, as well as physical capital. The analysis is performed on a large data set of Italian firms, covering both manufacturing and services sectors, as well as large and small firms. We show that non-convex adjustment costs affect different capital inputs in different ways, depending on their degree of firm-specificity. The results confirm the Bloom model: flow adjustment costs explain investment in R&D and, to a lesser extent, in non-R&D intangibles. However, it struggles to explain tangible investment plans because of the ambiguous effect of the stock adjustment costs.
Distribution of contractures and spinal malalignments in adolescents with cerebral palsy: Observations and influences of function, gender and age

Objective: To describe distributions of contracture and spinal malalignment in adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) and determine associations with age, gender and function. Methods: Data were collected using the Spinal Alignment and Range of Motion Measure (SAROMM), the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and the Activity Scale for Kids (ASK). Results: Two hundred and twenty-five adolescents (122 males; mean age 14 years 8 months; SD 1 year 8 months) participated. SAROMM scores by GMFCS levels and item scores in various body regions are presented. Correlations between indices of function and SAROMM total score were >0.70 (p<0.001). Males in GMFCS levels I/V obtained higher total SAROMM scores than females. Age was significantly associated with SAROMM scores for GMFCS levels IV/V participants. Conclusions: These data provide benchmarks for evaluating impairments in adolescents with CP and support the role of function in contracture development and possibly prevention. Gender and age were factors that modified outcomes.
Role of excited electronic states in the high-pressure amorphization of benzene

High-pressure methods are increasingly used to produce new dense materials with unusual properties. Increasing efforts to understand the reaction mechanisms at the microscopic level, to set up and optimize synthetic approaches, are currently directed at carbon-based solids. A fundamental, but still unsolved, question concerns how the electronic excited states are involved in the high-pressure reactivity of molecular systems. Technical difficulties in such experiments include small sample dimensions and possible damage to the sample as a result of the absorption of intense laser fields. These experimental challenges make the direct characterization of the electronic properties as a function of pressure by linear and nonlinear optical spectroscopies up to several GPa a hard task. We report here the measurement of two-photon excitation spectra in a molecular crystal under pressure, up to 12 GPa in benzene, the archetypal aromatic system. Comparison between the pressure shift of the exciton line and the monomer fluorescence provides evidence for different compressibilities of the ground and first excited states. The formation of structural excimers occurs with increasing pressure involving molecules on equivalent crystal sites that are favorably arranged in a parallel configuration. These species represent the nucleation sites for the transformation of benzene into amorphous hydrogenated carbon. The present results provide a unified picture of the chemical reactivity of benzene at high pressure.
Statistical Models and Empirical Evidence for Differences in the Motherhood Penalty across the Earnings Distribution

The development and application of new methods to investigate how social processes may affect individuals differently based on their locations in inequality distributions is an important and exciting research frontier. In this vein, we welcome the critique offered by Killewald and Bearak (KB) on the methods and interpretations of our article, which investigated differences in the motherhood wage penalty across white women’s distribution. KB conclude that our 2010 article makes an error of interpretation in discussing the effect of motherhood on earnings as differing among lowerand higher-wage workers. Specifically, they argue that our use of conditional quantile regression and a de-meaned dependent variable render our empirical findings, that lowerwage women pay larger motherhood penalties relative to high-wage women, inaccurate. We review their concerns, agree with their cautions as to the interpretation of conditional quantile regression, and reassess the evidence for differences in the motherhood penalty across the distribution of white women earners. Our extension of their modeling solution— unconditional quantile regression—to the relevant theoretical models of our article demonstrates support for our original empirical conclusion. We conclude with some potential lessons for the use of quantile regression. Conditional and UnConditional QUantile RegRession
Does academic research affect local growth? Empirical evidence based on Swedish data

ABSTRACT Does academic research affect local growth? Empirical evidence based on Swedish data. Regional Studies. The hypothesis that research activities do not merely affect the growth rate within the municipality hosting the university or university college but spill over to neighbouring municipalities is tested using data covering the Swedish municipalities between 1990 and 2010. Research activities are measured as the number of dissertations and the number of papers published in academic journals with peer-review system. The results suggest academic institutions by their presence and ‘production’ of human capital and new knowledge through research affect the regional growth pattern in both the municipality where the academic institution is located and the growth pattern of neighbouring municipalities.
Editorial: Introduction to a Forum on Internal Control Reporting and Corporate Debt

O ne of the more surprising things I have learned from my experience as Senior Editor of The Accounting Review is just how often a ‘‘hot topic’’ generates multiple submissions that pursue similar research objectives. Though one might view such situations as enhancing the credibility of research findings through the independent efforts of multiple research teams, they often result in unfavorable reactions from reviewers who question the incremental contribution of a subsequent study that does not materially advance the findings already documented in a previous study, even if the two (or more) efforts were initiated independently and pursued more or less concurrently. I understand the reason for a high incremental contribution standard in a top-tier journal that faces capacity constraints and deals with about 500 new submissions per year. Nevertheless, I must admit that I sometimes feel bad writing a rejection letter on a good study, just because some other research team beat the authors to press with similar conclusions documented a few months earlier. Research, it seems, operates in a highly competitive arena. Fortunately, from time to time, we receive related but still distinct submissions that, in combination, capture synergies (and reviewer support) by viewing a broad research question from different perspectives. The two articles comprising this issue’s forum are a classic case in point. Though both studies reach the same basic conclusion that material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting result in negative repercussions for the cost of debt financing, Dhaliwal et al. (2011) do so by examining the public market for corporate debt instruments, whereas Kim et al. (2011) examine private debt contracting with financial institutions. These different perspectives enable the two research teams to pursue different secondary analyses, such as Dhaliwal et al.’s examination of the sensitivity of the reported findings to bank monitoring and Kim et al.’s examination of debt covenants. Both studies also overlap with yet a third recent effort in this arena, recently published in the Journal of Accounting Research by Costello and Wittenberg-Moerman (2011). Although the overall ‘‘punch line’’ is similar in all three studies (material internal control weaknesses result in a higher cost of debt), I am intrigued by a ‘‘mini-debate’’ of sorts on the different conclusions reached by Costello and Wittenberg-Moerman (2011) and by Kim et al. (2011) for the effect of material weaknesses on debt covenants. Specifically, Costello and Wittenberg-Moerman (2011, 116) find that ‘‘serious, fraud-related weaknesses result in a significant decrease in financial covenants,’’ presumably because banks substitute more direct protections in such instances, whereas Kim et al.
ISSR (Inter Simple Sequence Repeat)markers reveal natural intersectional hybridization in wild roses [RosaL., sectCaninae (DC.) Ser. and sect. Cinnamomeae (DC.) Ser.]

Summary: Th e genus Rosa comprises about 200–300 species worldwide with many critical taxa, especially among European members of the section Caninae. Available data on breeding systems and frequency of spontaneous interspeciﬁ c hybridization are insuﬃ cient and contradictory. Our results obtained from ﬁ eld crossing experiments and analyses of morphological and molecular (ISSR) marker distributions in a natural rose population in Volgograd province of Russia reveal spontaneous introgressive hybridization between R. canina (sect. Caninae) and R. majalis (sect. Cinnamomeae). R. canina acts most probably as the ovule parent and R. majalis as the pollen parent. Th e resulting putative F1 hybrids are, however, morphologically identical to R. caesia , yet another species of the Caninae section. Th e putative backcrosses are morphologically similar to R. canina , deviating from it in leaf pubescence only. R. donetzica , a critical taxon of the Cinnamomeae section, probably results from this hybridization as well, though our data are insuﬃ cient to make any ﬁ rm conclusions.
Perceptions of macaque sacredness among Balinese transmigrants in South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Here, I explore perceptions of macaque sacredness among Balinese transmigrants in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. In Bali, long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) that occupy religious temple sites are perceived as sacred by the Balinese people and preserved by local communities. The migration and relocation of Balinese people to Sulawesi may have affected their perceptions of macaque sacredness and therefore have consequences for the local macaque species (M. ochreata) in South Sulawesi. My research goal was to understand the Balinese transmigrants' perceptions of macaque populations living near the transmigrant communities in both sacred and non-sacred contexts to contextualize the overall relationship between them. Drawing upon the theoretical and methodological framework of ethnoprimatology, which focuses on the multi-faceted interrelations between human and nonhuman primates, I employ ethnographic field methods to investigate my research questions. Data were collected through semi-structured, one-on-one interviews with members of three Balinese transmigrant communities in the Luwu Timur district of South Sulawesi. All interviews (N = 100) were conducted by me in the national language of Indonesia, Bahasa Indonesia. The sample was stratified between older and younger generations to examine the potential effect of being a 1st or 2nd generation transmigrant on perceptions of macaque sacredness. The results indicate that macaques in Sulawesi are not considered sacred by the Balinese transmigrants. The majority (87%) of respondents indicated that they did not perceive the macaques in Sulawesi to be sacred, while only 13% of respondents did. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the older and younger generations regarding perceptions of macaque sacredness. The general absence of macaque sacredness in South Sulawesi is largely due to the following interrelated factors: (1) macaque behavior that is either destructive to crops or regarded as fearful of humans, creating a perceived antagonistic and competitive nature in the relationship between humans and macaques in South Sulawesi; (2) macaques living in forest areas rather than in sacred temple spaces; and (3) the lack of historical association between people and macaques in South Sulawesi.