Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Gamma Interferon Production through Activation of Vα14+ Natural Killer T Cells by α-Galactosylceramide in Interleukin-18-Deficient Mice with Systemic Cryptococcosis

ABSTRACT We showed recently that activation of Vα14+ natural killer T cells (NKT cells) by α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) resulted in increased gamma interferon (IFN-γ) production and host resistance to intravenous infection with Cryptococcus neoformans. In other studies, interleukin-18 (IL-18) activated NKT cells in collaboration with IL-12, suggesting the possible contribution of this cytokine to α-GalCer-induced IFN-γ synthesis. Here we examined the role of IL-18 in α-GalCer-induced Th1 response by using IL-18KO mice with this infection. In these mice, levels of IFN-γ in serum and its synthesis in vitro by spleen cells stimulated with live organisms were not reduced, but rather enhanced, compared to those in wild-type (WT) mice, while such production was completely absent in IL-12KO mice. The enhanced production of IFN-γ correlated with increased IL-12 synthesis but not with reduced production of IL-4, which was rather increased. IFN-γ synthesis in IL-18KO mice was abolished by neutralizing anti-IL-12 antibody and significantly inhibited by neutralization of endogenous IL-4 with a specific monoclonal antibody. In addition, administration of recombinant IL-4 significantly enhanced the production of IFN-γ in WT mice. Finally, the enhanced production of IFN-γ in IL-18KO mice correlated with increased host defense against cryptococcal infection, as indicated by enhancement in α-GalCer-related clearance of microorganisms. Our results indicated that in IL-18KO mice, IFN-γ synthesis was enhanced through overproduction of IL-12 and IL-4 after intravenous infection with C. neoformans and a ligand-specific activation of Vα14+ NKT cells.
Robustness of the Two-Dimensional Structure of Recognition of Facial Expression: Evidence under Different Intensities of Emotionality

Many studies have indicated that recognition of facial expression is geometrically represented in terms of two underlying bipolar dimensions, pleasure-displeasure and the intensity of arousal. A psychological space defined by these two dimensions has been found under particular conditions using prototype faces; however, the question arises whether this two-dimensional psychological space is also an accurate representation for faces with lower emotional intensity To test this we prepared four different conditions of emotional intensity (100%, 75%, 50%, and 25% of emotionality) for six basic facial expressions using morphing. Participants (29 for the 100%, 30 for 75%, 35 for 50%, and 34 for the 25% condition) in each condition rated the facial stimuli on a 6-point scale of “not at all” and “very much so”. Multidimensional scaling for each condition clearly indicated a two-dimensional representation, and multiple correlations showed significant similarity across conditions (p < .001). This shows that the two-dimensional representation of recognition of facial expression is robust.
Relationship between corporate governance attributes and voluntary disclosures in annual reports: the Kenyan experience

The Kenya Government initiated reforms at the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE) aimed at transforming the exchange into a vehicle for mobilising domestic savings and attracting foreign capital investment. A key aspect of this reform is related to corporate governance practices. In 2000, the CMA issued draft corporate governance guidelines outlining significant changes to listed companies corporate governance practices – key among them were: establishment of an audit committee, independence of non-executive directors and separation of the roles of the CEO and board chair. Corporate financial reporting is an important part of the process for building investor confidence. Drawing on prior corporate disclosure research, this study using agency theory examines the association of corporate governance practices with the voluntary disclosures of selected information in the annual reports of Kenyan companies. Due to the panel nature of our data, to estimate the determinants of voluntary disclosure of various types of information, we use pooled Ordinary Least Square (OLS) with Panel-Corrected Standard Errors (PCSEs). Our results indicate that the presence of an audit committee is a significant factor associated with the level of voluntary disclosure, and the proportion of non-executive directors on the board is found to be significantly negatively associated with the extent of voluntary disclosure. In contrast, board leadership structure did not appear to have a significant influence on the level of voluntary disclosure by companies.
Shadowing-Fading BER Characterization of a BAN Diversity Antenna Based on Statistical Measurements of the Human Walking Motion

This paper presents the shadowing analysis of a body area network (BAN) diversity antenna based on the statistical measurements of the human walking motion. First, the dynamic characteristics of the armswing motion were measured using human subjects, and a statistical analysis was then carried out using the measured data to extract useful information for the analysis of a BAN diversity antenna. Second, the analytical results of the shadowing effects of the BAN antenna were shown based on the statistical data of the swing motion. The difference between the typical and the realistic arm-swinging models significantly affected the bit error rate (BER) characteristic of the BAN antenna. To eliminate the shadowing caused by the movement of the arms, a BAN diversity antenna was used. Particular emphasis was placed on the evaluation of the spatial separation of the diversity antennas to attain reduction of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) required to achieve a specific BER performance, considering the combined outcome of shadowing and multipath fading unique to BAN antenna systems. We determined that an antenna angle separation of greater than 80◦ is required to reduce the shadowing effects when the diversity antenna is mounted at the left waist in a symmetrical configuration. Further, an antenna angle separation of 120◦ is required when the diversity antenna is mounted in an asymmetric configuration. key words: body area network (BAN), diversity antenna, walking motion, shadowing, multipath fading, BER analysis
Banks' Loan Screening Incentives with Credit Risk Transfer: An Alternative to Risk Retention

This article analyzes the impact of credit risk transfer on banks' screening incentives on the primary loan market. While credit derivatives allow banks to transfer risk to investors, they negatively affect the incentive to screen due to the asymmetry of information between banks and investors. I show that screening incentives can be reestablished with standardized credit derivatives that fully transfer the underlying loan default risk. In particular, a callable credit default swap reveals a loan's quality to the investor by letting him observe the bank's readiness to pay for the implicit call feature. The ability to signal loan quality induces screening incentives. The paper also examines the impact of current developments such as higher regulatory capital standards, stricter margin requirements, and central clearing on the design of the optimal credit risk transfer contract.
Student Accounts — A Profitable Segment?

Discusses the increasing school‐leaving population and the number of school children entering full‐time further education, and the proportion of school‐leavers in full‐time further education remaining constant and around 21/22 percent. Proposes that UK clearing banks should be targeting these young people to open accounts with their grant cheques, therefore perhaps persuading them to say with the banks after graduation. States that specialist student advisers, or officers, may be seen as key personnel by helping banks to establish and maintain a ‘feel good’ image with students, showing that banks understand the relevant needs of young people, and providing a good service to them. Concludes that it is not surprising that banks are, in general, turning attention more to school leavers, and in particular to those reaching early employment.
Validation of the Traumatic Sexualization Survey for Use with Heterosexual Men

Two studies were conducted to validate the Traumatic Sexualization Survey (TSS) for use with heterosexual men. In Study 1, an online sample of men completed the TSS and measures used to examine convergent and divergent validity. An exploratory factor analysis revealed that the TSS had a similar factor structure in men as previously found in women. The TSS demonstrated adequate reliability and validity with men. In Study 2, male sexually transmitted disease clinic patients completed the TSS and a measure of child maltreatment. Men with a child sexual abuse (CSA) history reported higher levels of traumatic sexualization than men with a history of only physical abuse or no abuse, providing some preliminary evidence of construct validity. The TSS appears to be an adequate measure of maladaptive attitudes that have been conceptually linked to CSA impact in men.
Proximity, knowledge transfer, and innovation in technology-based mergers and acquisitions

This paper presents the findings from a qualitative study on the extent to which three dimensions of proximity – geographic, cognitive, and organisational – impact knowledge transfer and innovation post-merger and acquisition (M&A). Findings show that the elements of proximity substantially influence both knowledge transfer and innovation although the nature of the impact varies and is influenced by the type of management interventions or lack thereof post-M&A.
The social,economic,and ecological benefit of deserticulture in Ningxia

Ningxia is one of the most serious desertification regions in China and remain relatively underdeveloped in terms of economy and social development.In the process of combating land desertification,a new mechanism was established in 1990's,so-called "governmental guiding,projects motivating,market orientation and enterprises and the whole society participating". The local government promotes the role of the typical model of radiation effects.A policy vigorously favors desert sunlight greenhouses,Chinese herbs planting,and sowing watermelon on pressure sand.Ecological improvement and favorable mechanism made the Ningxia province became the first province where sandified and desertified lands became smaller.The deserticulture in Ningxia showed that the effective combination of ecological restoration and economic development,as well as ecological compensation can achieve positive interaction with natural environment,social economy and escape the poverty trap.Deserticulture brought economic benefit and ecological benefit,promoted the local people's enthusiasm of environment resource protection.The deserticulture in Ningxia provides beneficial experience to other poverty-stricken areas and countries.
Comparing wealth in retirement: State-local versus private sector workers

* Alicia H. Munnell is the Peter F. Drucker Professor of Management Sciences in Boston College’s Carroll School of Management and director of the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College (CRR). Jean-Pierre Aubry is the assistant director of state and local research at the CRR. Josh Hurwitz and Laura Quinby are research associates at the CRR. The authors would like to thank Andrew Biggs, David Blitzstein, Keith Brainard, Peter Diamond, Elizabeth Kellar, Steven Kreisberg, Jason Richwine, and Nathan Scovronick for helpful comments. Introduction
Small farmers’ adoption behaviour: Uptake of elephant crop-raiding deterrent innovations in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

This paper invokes the adoption-diffusion model to examine two introduced elephant crop-raiding deterrent innovations (ECDIs), and the factors influencing their adoption by small farmers in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Two communities (Gudigwa and Eretsha) were purposefully selected as case studies. Ninety-nine farmers were randomly selected and interviewed using open and close-ended structured questionnaires. First a reconnaissance survey was carried out to ascertain the extension agency's claim that it had introduced ECDIs to farmers and affirm the adoption of the innovations. Some key informants were purposively selected and interviewed using the interview guide. Focus group discussions were used to elicit qualitative data from the farmers. There are varying levels of innovation uptake among farmers. Deemed as effective, a significant proportion of farmers (50.5%) favoured the use of chilli pepper. Findings elicited farmers’ perceptions, innovation trial-ability, complexity and effectiveness as key determinants of adoption decisions. They also underscore the need to employ a participatory approach in pushing the adoption of ECDIs. Creating a genuine farmerscientist-extension linkage would facilitate exchange of useful information and bring about better understanding of the innovations. This paper contributes to literature on factors that predispose small farmers to adopting new ideas in relation to how they view their world.
Evaluating the Relationships among Attitude toward Business, Product Satisfaction, Experience, and Search Effort

A simple structural model relating attitudes toward business to product satisfaction, experience in shopping, and search effort is proposed and tested by use of confirmatory factor analysis (COFAMM) and the LISREL model. The fact that the basic hypotheses of the model are supported suggests a positive relation between business attitude and product satisfaction and a negative one between business attitude and information search. The LISREL model is seen as a useful tool in future work in structural modeling.
The synaptic current evoked in cat spinal motoneurones by impulses in single group 1a axons.

Excitatory post‐synaptic potentials (e.p.s.p.s) were evoked in motoneurones of anaesthetized cats by impulses in single group 1 a axons. E.p.s.p.s with a time course which indicated a somatic site of origin were voltage‐clamped using a single micro‐electrode clamp. Excitatory post‐synaptic currents (e.p.s.c.s) were found to peak in less than 0.2 ms, and to decay with an exponential time course. The time constant of decay was usually in the range 0.3‐0.4 ms (at 37 degrees C). At the resting membrane potential, an e.p.s.p. with a peak of 100 microV was generated by an average peak e.p.s.c. of 330 pA. This corresponded to an average peak conductance increase of 5 nS. The e.p.s.c. decreased with membrane depolarization, and reversed to become an outward current at a null potential of +4.6 +/‐ 2 mV (+/‐ S.E. of mean; n = 7). Membrane hyperpolarization caused the peak e.p.s.c. to increase and the time constant of decay of the e.p.s.c. to decrease. The total charge in the synaptic current did not increase with hyperpolarization. This observation can explain earlier observations which showed that the peak amplitude of the e.p.s.p. did not increase with hyperpolarization. The number of ion channels opened by transmitter release at a single somatic bouton was estimated to be in the range 40‐240.
Accounting Measurement Basis, Market Mispricing, and Firm Investment Efficiency

In this paper, we investigate how the accounting measurement basis affects the capital market pricing of a firm's shares, which, in turn, affects the efficiency of the firm's investment decisions. We distinguish two broad bases for accounting measurements: input-based and output-based accounting. We argue that the structural difference in the two measurement bases leads to a systematic difference in the efficiency of the investment decisions. In particular, we show that an output-based measure has a natural advantage in aligning investment incentives because of its comprehensiveness. The (first-)best investment is achieved when the output-based measure is noiseless and manipulation free. In addition, under an output-based measure, more accounting noise/manipulation always leads to more inefficient investment choices. Therefore, if an output-based accounting measure is highly noisy and easy to manipulate in practice, the induced investment efficiency can be quite low. On the other hand, an input-based accounting measure, while not as comprehensive, may induce more efficient investment decisions than an output-based measure if some noise is unavoidable in either measure. The reason is twofold. First, input-based measures may be associated with less noise and limited manipulation in practice. Second, and more importantly, we show that under an input-based measure, a slight increase in accounting noise/manipulation may lead to more efficient investment choices. In fact, the (first-)best result is achieved when the noise/manipulability is small but positive. In other words, for an input-based measure, being less comprehensive makes small but positive accounting noise/manipulability desirable. Two extensions of the basic model are also explored.
Leveraging Ties: The Contingent Value of Entrepreneurial Teams' External Advice Networks on Indian Software Venture Performance

This study investigates the impact of entrepreneurial teams' external networks on their ventures' performance. We first argue that ventures whose entrepreneurial teams span many structural holes in their external advice networks experience higher performance. We then propose that network ties are not uniform in their effect, but rather are contingent on two distinct features of entrepreneurial teams: (i) their strategic consensus—extent of agreement on key goals and strategies within the team—and (ii) internal cohesion—extent of interpersonal friendships within the team. Finally, we propose that team demographics and team networks complement (rather than substitute) each other. Data from Indian software ventures provide support for these arguments. We extend entrepreneurship research by highlighting how venture teams' internal processes and external networks jointly shape performance outcomes. We also add to the literature on team networks by drawing attention to the role of strategic consensus as a distinct pathway through which teams can leverage their external networks.
A new method for screening and surveillance colonoscopy: Combined water-exchange and cap-assisted colonoscopy.

BACKGROUND & AIMS Colonoscopy plays an important and central role in current colorectal cancer screening and prevention programs, but it is an imperfect tool. Adjunct techniques may help improve the performance of colonoscopy to increase the detection of polyps with neoplastic potential. This study investigates the novel approach of combined water-exchange and cap-assisted colonoscopy (WCC) and its impact on adenoma detection. METHODS A single-center single-colonoscopist consecutive group observational study to compare WCC with conventional air insufflation colonoscopy was performed. Data were collected from 50 consecutive patients undergoing outpatient colorectal cancer screening or polyp surveillance with WCC. Adenoma detection rates (ADR) and adenomas detected per colonoscopy (APC) were compared to a control group of 101 consecutive patients examined with conventional air colonoscopy during the immediate prior period. RESULTS Cecal intubation was achieved in all patients. As an emerging and alternative quality metric for colonoscopy, APC was significantly higher in the WCC group (3.08 vs. 1.50, p=0.0021). The conventional quality metric, overall ADR, was higher in the WCC group compared to the air colonoscopy group (70.0% vs. 59.4%, p=0.22). This difference was not statistically significant, likely due to a type II error. CONCLUSION The observational data suggest APC is a more sensitive indicator of quality colonoscopy than ADR. WCC shows promise as a novel technique that merges two simple adjunct methods to help improve the performance of colonoscopy. The data suggest larger, prospective studies are necessary to determine the true impact of water-exchange combined with cap-assisted maneuvers.
Sponsorship and image: a replication and extension

Several researchers have indicated that corporate sponsorship of sport enhances corporate image. While these researchers have allowed individually for different factors that might impact on such a relationship, none have examined the several factors mediating the relationship concurrently. We replicate one such study, allowing for purchase decision involvement, prior brand use and the brand name itself. The results suggest that any effect on corporate image previously found as a result of sponsorship awareness can be explained by prior use of the brand and the brand name itself. Purchase decision involvement was not found to co-vary with corporate image in these effects.
Understanding the effects of market orientation and e‐marketing on service performance

Purpose – The study aims to use the inter‐relationship between market orientation and e‐marketing in order to investigate alternative mechanisms through which both contribute to tourism services performance.Design/methodology/approach – Direct and indirect effects of market orientation on performance are examined using structural equation modelling in a sample of 216 tourism firms.Findings – Market orientation is found to contribute to performance through a dual mechanism in that it contributes both directly and indirectly, through e‐marketing, to the relationship.Practical implications – The results indicate that academics and managers should consider the inter‐relationships between multiple sources of competitive advantage when looking for explanations of services performance and particularly, tourism services.Originality/value – This is the first study, to the authors' knowledge, that investigates the inter‐relationship between market orientation and e‐marketing on service performance within the contex.
Australian parents’ experiences of speech generating device (SGD) service delivery

Abstract Objective: To explore parents’ perceptions of existing support for families with a new speech generating device (SGD). Method: Six Australian parents of school-aged children who used an SGD participated in semi-structured interviews about their experiences of SGD support. Data were explored and compared using narrative analysis. Results: Participants discussed barriers to service access, including long waiting lists, service exclusion policies and limited therapist expertise in SGD practice. They emphasized the value of ongoing service coordination for families. Finally, participants discussed the nature of role boundaries and responsibilities for parents vs. therapists in the intervention process and the impact that intervention approaches had on parent autonomy, empowerment and confidence. Conclusion: Having an SGD at home generates ongoing support needs, which had not been well met for some parents in our study. Results suggest that timely, well coordinated and family-centred support may enhance service experience for families with a new device.