Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Humanitarian Foundation of Public Support for Social Welfare

We explore the impact of prosocial orientations on a domain of American public opinion that has puzzled many-attitudes toward social welfare policies. We focus on the orientation of humanitarianism, i.e., a sense of obligation to help those in need, and find that this value can explain support for a wide variety of social welfare policies. We argue that humanitarianism is an important element of the American sociopolitical ethos, although it has received little attention in the public opinion literature. We contrast humanitarianism with egalitarianism and show that these dispositions lead people to support distinctive sets of policies that constitute different types of welfare state. While egalitarianism causes people to embrace policies that mandate an extensive economic role for the government, humanitarianism is associated with more modest policies that seek to address the problems of the needy. Support for these more modest policies has generally been much greater in the United States than support for more invasive policies that seek to tinker with the free market. Thus, we argue that humanitarianism provides a better explanation for public opinion toward welfare in the United States than egalitarianism. We discuss the implications of these findings for public opinion research. p ublic support for social welfare programs in the United States has never been easy to understand. On the one hand, Americans are deeply suspicious of an expansive government and strongly committed to the principles of economic self-reliance and laissez-faire capitalism, factors that erode support for a welfare state (Free and Cantril 1968; McClosky and Zaller 1984). On the other hand, public opinion surveys have generally registered considerable support for specific social welfare programs (Cook and Barrett 1992; Free and Cantril 1968, Kluegel and Smith 1986; McClosky and Zaller 1984; Shapiro and Young 1989), even on the eve of the extensive welfare reform of 1996 (Weaver, Shapiro, and Jacobs 1995). We explore here the question of why there is public support for social welfare programs despite Americans' deep misgivings about the idea of welfare. We answer this question through an analysis of Americans' sociopolitical values and their relationship to support for a wide variety of social welfare programs. ' Value-based approaches to understanding welfare policy support are not new (Bobo 1991; Feldman 1988; Kluegel and Smith 1986; McClosky and Zaller 1984), but we depart from the past research by
Discrepancy between the tuberculin skin test and the whole-blood interferon gamma assay for the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis infection in an intermediate tuberculosis-burden country.

CONTEXT A recently developed whole-blood interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) assay based on stimulation with the Mycobacterium tuberculosis-specific antigens early secreted antigenic target 6 and culture filtrate protein 10 shows promise for the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection. OBJECTIVE To compare the tuberculin skin test (TST) and the whole-blood IFN-gamma assay in the diagnosis of latent TB infection according to the intensity of exposure. DESIGN AND SETTING A prospective comparison between the whole-blood IFN-gamma assay and the TST using a 2-TU dose of purified protein derivative RT23 in a population with intermediate TB burden was conducted sequentially between February 1, 2004, and February 28, 2005, in a Korean tertiary referral hospital. PARTICIPANTS Of 273 participants, 220 (95.7%) had received BCG vaccine. Participants were grouped according to their risk of infection: group 1, no identifiable risk of M tuberculosis infection (n = 99); group 2, recent casual contacts (n = 72); group 3, recent close contacts (n = 48); group 4, bacteriologically or pathologically confirmed TB patients (n = 54). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Levels of agreement between the TST and the IFN-gamma assay and the likelihood of infection in the various groups. RESULTS For the TST with a 10-mm induration cutoff, the positive response rate in group 1 was 51%; group 2, 60%; group 3, 71%, and group 4, 78%. For the IFN-gamma assay, the positive response rate in group 1 was 4%; group 2, 10%; group 3, 44%; and group 4, 81%. The overall agreement between the TST and the IFN-gamma assay in healthy volunteers was kappa = 0.16. The odds of a positive test result per unit increase in exposure across the 4 groups increased by a factor of 5.31 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.62-7.79) for the IFN-gamma assay and by a factor of 1.52 (95% CI, 1.20-1.91) for the TST (P<.001). Using a 15-mm induration cutoff for the TST did not make a substantial difference to the test results. CONCLUSION The IFN-gamma assay is a better indicator of the risk of M tuberculosis infection than TST in a BCG-vaccinated population.
Organic wheat farming in Australia: issues farmers face

Organic wheat farmers in Australia face a number of unique challenges, and an in-depth understanding of these challenges is an important first step for government agencies, universities and other groups interested in promoting organic agriculture. This research was designed to develop a qualitative understanding of the biggest transition, cultivation, market and other issues faced by organic wheat farmers in Australia. Data gathering was conducted with a series of one-to-one interviews. The top challenge identified was rain, water availability and soil moisture. This challenge places unique risks on organic farmers because of additional cultivation cycles and subsequent delayed seeding. A second key issue was weed management, with particularly tough issues found during the initial transition years. The third top issue was soil fertility, which together with weeds, was identified as a key factor limiting wheat yields. Top requests from organic wheat farmers were for more organic crop research centres, greater promotion and visibility for organic grain growing, and a small transition-to-organic subsidy.
Phosphohydrolase and transphosphatidylation reactions of two Streptomyces phospholipase D enzymes: Covalent versus noncovalent catalysis

A kinetic comparison of the hydrolase and transferase activities of two bacterial phospholipase D (PLD) enzymes with little sequence homology provides insights into mechanistic differences and also the more general role of Ca2+ in modulating PLD reactions. Although the two PLDs exhibit similar substrate specificity (phosphatidylcholine preferred), sensitivity to substrate aggregation or Ca2+, and pH optima are quite distinct. Streptomyces sp. PMF PLD, a member of the PLD superfamily, generates both hydrolase and transferase products in parallel, consistent with a mechanism that proceeds through a covalent phosphatidylhistidyl intermediate where the rate‐limiting step is formation of the covalent intermediate. For Streptomyces chromofuscus PLD, the two reactions exhibit different pH profiles, a result consistent with a mechanism likely to involve direct attack of water or an alcohol on the phosphorus. Ca2+, not required for monomer or micelle hydrolysis, can activate both PLDs for hydrolysis of PC unilamellar vesicles. In the case of Streptomyces sp. PMF PLD, Ca2+ relieves product inhibition by interactions with the phosphatidic acid (PA). A similar rate enhancement could occur with other HxKx4D‐motif PLDs as well. For S. chromofuscus PLD, Ca2+ is absolutely critical for binding of the enzyme to PC vesicles and for PA activation. That the Ca2+‐PA activation involves a discreet site on the protein is suggested by the observation that the identity of the C‐terminal residue in S. chromofuscus PLD can modulate the extent of product activation.
A Matrix of Feedback

The present study used an established model of feedback (Hattie & Timperley, 2007) as a framework to explore which types and levels of feedback are most common in the upper primary classroom. Results demonstrate that feedback was predominantly directed toward the task level and that feed forward, information about the next steps for learning, was the least occurring feedback type in the classroom. Based upon research and findings, the authors propose a conceptual matrix of feedback that bridges research to practice with the aim of feedback being a driver to promote improvement.
Characterization of two populations of pancreatic atypical acinar cell foci induced by azaserine in the rat.

Multiple and single intraperitoneal injections of azaserine in male Wistar/Lewis rats induced a 100% incidence of atypical acinar cell foci. The foci were histologically classified into one of two populations, basophilic or acidophilic. The number and size of transections of the foci in tissue sections were determined. By means of known mathematical relationships, focal transectional data were transformed into three-dimensional data (i.e., foci/unit volume, foci/pancreas, mean diameter and volume of foci, and focal volume as percentage of pancreas volume). In general, initiation with azaserine resulted in more acidophilic than basophilic foci. An increase in the azaserine dose from 10 to 30 mg/kg resulted in the initiation of more acidophilic and basophilic foci. Over a 6-month period following initiation, basophilic foci showed a small increase in number and no increase in size. In these same pancreases, acidophilic foci significantly increased in both number and size. A promoter of pancreatic carcinogenesis (20% unsaturated fat diet) enhanced the number and percentage of the pancreas volume occupied by acidophilic foci. This modulator of the postinitiation phase of pancreatic carcinogenesis did not have a significant effect on the basophilic foci. Unlike the basophilic foci, the acidophilic foci show considerable growth potential and appear to be responsive to modulators of carcinogenesis. Further study of this population of carcinogen-induced pancreatic foci is warranted.
Effects of phonological neighborhood density on word production in Korean

Studies have offered conflicting evidence for the effects of phonological neighborhood density (PND) on word production. Firm conclusions have been further hindered by the fact that most research on the effects of PND has been conducted on English. The purpose of this study was to provide an additional perspective by examining the effects of PND on word production in Korean. It was found that although PND correlated with both word duration and vowel duration, the effects were substantially diminished once certain segmental influences were controlled for. Additionally, no effect of PND was found on the VOT or f0 accompanying word-initial lax obstruents. We conclude that understanding variation in segmental content is vital to understanding effects of PND.
Effect of the phase error, quadrature error, and I-Q gain mismatch on symbol error probability for an M-PSK system in fading channels

This paper investigates the average symbol error probability (SEP) performance of the coherent M-ary phase shift keying (M-PSK) system in a situation where the phase error, quadrature error, and I-Q gain mismatch problems take place all concurrently over an additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) and Nakagami-m fading channel. An analytical expression for the average SEP is derived. Computer simulation results are included based on our analysis in order to examine the overall SEP performance of the M-PSK system for various combinations of the phase error, quadrature error, and I-Q gain mismatch values.
Anti-Hyperglycaemic Effect of Cleome Rutidosperma in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Albino Rats

Abstract The hypoglycaemic and antihyperglycaemic effects of methanol extract of leaves of Cleome rutidosperma (Cr) DC (Family: Capparidaceae) was investigated in Wistar rats. Fifty normoglycaemic male rats (120 g–200 g) were divided into groups A (hypoglycaemic study; n=20) and B (antihyperglycaemic study; n=30). Each experiment had one control group and three groups administered with Cr (100, 200 or 400 mg/kg) respectively. Group B had two additional groups of diabetic-untreated rats and glibenclamide-treated diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in Group B rats (except control) fasted overnight for 12 h by intraperitoneal injection of Alloxan (100 mg/kg). Fasting blood glucose levels (FBGL) were determined and alloxan-treated rats with BGL >200 mg/dl 48 h post-induction were considered diabetic. Data obtained were analyzed using One-way ANOVA and Duncan Multiple Range Test (p<0.05). Cr-treated rats showed significant decline in BGL with noteworthy decline by day 3 post-treatment at the dose of 200 mg/kg (236.40±14.72 mg/dl) from 336.40±21.06 mg/dl. Cr at the dose of 200 mg/kg (72.20±6.18 mg/dl, 69.20±7.81 mg/dl, 137.80±7.15 mg/dl and 70.60±10.66 mg/dl) showed better glycemic control compared to glibenclamide (194.50±7.75 mg/dl, 253.75±7.20 mg/dl, 284.25±10.56 mg/dl and 156.00±10.80 mg/dl). Cr-treated rats also showed progressive weight gain through the course of the study. This study demonstrated Cr has antihyperglycemic effect with more rapid onset of action and better glycemic control compared to glibenclamide.
Strategies for enhanced radiation delivery in patients with lung cancer

Since the 1970s primary management for regionally advanced non-small cell lung cancer has shifted from radiotherapy alone to sequential chemoradiation to concurrent chemoradiation. The increase in survival with these approaches has been small; an ~ 3 – 4 month per decade increase in median survival. Future avenues to improve on these outcomes could involve: i)dose-intense radiotherapy; ii) better target delineation; and iii) combining molecularly targeted agents with optimised radiation therapy. However, to accomplish this, techniques to control tumour motion and decrease toxicity must be developed.
Environmental Kuznets Curve for Water Quality Parameters at Global Level

We examine the relationship between income and water pollutants using country-level global water quality data over the period 1980 to 2012. We include civil liberties and political rights in addition to income as explanatory variables. We use recent advances in econometric techniques to address the inclusion of continuous and discrete variables in nonparametric instrumental variable regression models. Results indicate an inverted U-shape relationship between income and pollution for one pollutant (lead) and a cubic shape for three pollutants (nickel, mercury and arsenic). In general, we find that improved civil liberties and political rights are correlated with better water quality. By estimating a nonparametric relationship between political variables and pollution and by accounting for the categorical nature of the political variables, we are able to detect a nonlinear relationship between political variables and pollution, which for some pollutants is an inverted U-shaped curve.
A new Method for Fast Haptoglobin Phenotyping and Hemoglobin Binding Capacity Calculation Based on Capillary Zone Electrophoresis

Abstract A capillary zone electrophoresis method was developed for haptoglobin (Hp) phenotyping in hemoglobin (Hb) supplemented serum. The method allows a complete resolution of the major haptoglobin phenotypes Hp 1-1, Hp 2-1, and Hp 2-2 based on the difference in charge-to-mass ratio of their Hb-Hp complexes. Identification of these phenotypes was achieved by their significant differences in migration times and their marked difference in electrophoretic pattern. Our method showed full agreement with starch gel electrophoresis. Furthermore, following neuraminidase treatment of the serum, the Hp subtypes Hp1-1FF, FS and SS could be resolved, based on the same criteria as the phenotyping. The new electrophoretic method allowed typing of the rare phenotypes Hp 2-1 modified (Hp 2-1M) and Hp Johnson. The calculated hemoglobin binding capacity of serum correlates well with the nephelometrically determined haptoglobin concentration. The new method for typing haptoglobin gives prospectives for fast haptoglobin typing and Hp 1-1 subtyping.
The Role and Use of Communities of Practice to Facilitate Knowledge Sharing in Project Based Organizations

Communities of Practice (CoPs) have proliferated in business practice as a means to coordinate knowledge within globally distributed organizations. Well functioning CoPs can be a powerful tool for intra-organizational problem solving, knowledge creation, and practice diffusion, because they facilitate interaction that is not limited by bureaucratic organization. At the same time, there has been relatively little research into coordination within CoPs, because typical bureaucratic coordination mechanisms like rules, sequencing, and routines are inherently task focused. In contrast, CoPs focus on relational belonging, and the patterns of interaction that describe everyday engagement in work practice. This paper assumes a knowledge based view of the firm, which states that the primary function of organizations is to coordinate specialist knowledge to optimally create a product or service, then explores the role of CoPs in achieving this aim. Through a qualitative evaluation of three global CoPs, we investigate the types of coordination occurring within CoPs, and generate a typology of coordination based on the degree of overlap in specialists knowledge bases, consisting of three primary types of interaction: 1. Overlapping connections, where specialists have similar knowledge bases, common vocabulary and experiences, and can interact deeply on highly contextual issues; 2. Complementary connections, where specialists have separate knowledge bases, and could not perform the same function as one another, yet there is a common task that requires both knowledge bases; 3. Growth type connections, where less experienced knowledge workers are learning and growing from more experienced workers. CoPs provide a non-bureaucratic means of organization where individuals can choose which type of coordination will satisfy their knowledge based needs. Therefore, they are the host of non-bureaucratic coordination within the firm. From this basis, we propose that coordination between knowledge specialists is relationship specific, and must be situated within practice networks. Secondly, we propose that the level of mutual knowledge in a relationship dictates the coordination activities that are possible between specialists. This view has
Online Feedback and Attraction Management: An Exploration of the Critical Factors in Effective Operations

The objective of this study was to identify the critical factors about which future visitors to attractions want information, based on online reviews. An NVivo-based content analysis was conducted using 4831 traveler reviews posted on Tripadvisor.com. In total, seven critical factors were identified: environment (e.g. hygiene and cleanliness); experience (e.g. being in good order, overcrowding); location and/or transportation (e.g. subways); price, purpose (e.g. taking photos); target group and suitability (e.g. with/without children); and time. The findings provide guidance for attraction managers on how to make an effective and efficient response to negative reviews on social media channels and how to identify and meet future customer needs. This study supports the attraction industry to improve service quality and attract more visitors in future.
Assessment of Three Methods of pH Probe Positioning in Preterm Infants

Background In the assessment of gastroesophageal reflux, correct placement of the pH catheter is crucial. This is particularly so in very low birth weight infants where a small error in positioning could give rise to a potentially large error in results. Accepted modes of assessing correct positioning can be problematic in this population of infants and alternative methods were investigated. Methods A total of 26 preterm infants (<35 weeks gestation) were enrolled in this study. All infants were suspected of having GOR and pH monitoring was performed. Probe position was assessed using Strobel's formula, manometry and acid-alkali interface and confirmed by chest x-ray. Results There was a highly significant positive correlation between the calculation of the pH probe position using Strobel's formula and the position on x-ray and a significant positive correlation between the acid/alkali interface and x-ray position. There was no correlation between manometry and x-ray position and this method was also shown to be problematic in its' application. Conclusion The data suggests that it is appropriate to use Strobel's formula as a method of accurate positioning of pH probes in preterm infants, thus avoiding the need for additional x-rays. The acid/alkali interface, when obtainable, is a secondary, satisfactory method to confirm the position calculated by Strobel's formula.
The harsh life of an urban tree: the effect of a single pulse of ozone in salt-stressed Quercus ilex saplings

Ozone (O3) and salinity are usually tested as combined factors on plant performance. However, the response to a single episode of O3 in plants already stressed by an excess of NaCl as occurs in the natural environment has never been investigated, but is important given that it is commonly experienced in Mediterranean areas. Three-year-old Quercus ilex L. (holm oak) saplings were exposed to salinity (150 mM NaCl, 15 days), and the effect on photosynthesis, hydric relations and ion partitioning was evaluated (Experiment I). In Experiment II, salt-treated saplings were exposed to 80 nl l-1 of O3 for 5 h, which is a realistic dose in a Mediterranean environment. Gas exchanges, chlorophyll fluorescence and antioxidant systems were characterized to test whether the salt-induced stomatal closure limited O3 uptake and stress or whether the pollutant represents an additional stressor for plants. Salt-dependent stomatal closure depressed the photosynthetic process (-71.6% of light-saturated rate of photosynthesis (A380)) and strongly enhanced the dissipation of energy via the xanthophyll cycle. However, salt-treated plants had higher values of net assimilation rate/stomatal conductance (A/gs) than the controls, which was attributable to a greater mesophyll conductance gm/gs and carboxylation efficiency (higher gm/maximal rate of Rubisco carboxylation (Vcmax)), thus suggesting no damage to chloroplasts. O3 did not exacerbate the effect of salinity on photosynthesis, however a general enhancement of the Halliwell-Asada cycle was necessary to counteract the O3-triggered oxidative stress. Despite the 79.4% gs reduction in salt-stressed plants, which strongly limited the O3 uptake, a single peak in the air pollutant led to an additional burden for the antioxidant system when plants had been previously subjected to salinity.