cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ethnic nationalism, social structure, and political agency: explaining electoral support for the radical right in Bulgaria

Abstract Why do people vote for radical-right parties? Is radical-right voting determined by social structure and extremist political values, or is it induced by political entrepreneurship? This research tests for competing explanations of electoral support for the radical right on the example of the 2005 Bulgarian parliamentary elections. Methodologically, it performs demand-centred modelling of individual-level data with extensions to contextual variables and political agency. This approach yields two principal findings: first, that party-specific variables are the strongest predictors of the radical-right vote when tested against sociodemographic variables, general political attitudes, and economic interests. Second, the results suggest that political agency affects the distribution of electoral preferences whereby voters pertaining to certain sociological and attitudinal categories – blue-collar workers, older voters, and medium-education cohorts in the large cities, and voters sharing centrist ideolo...
C−H Bond Activation in Aqueous Solution: A Linear Free Energy Relationship Investigation of the Rate-Limiting Step in the H/D Exchange of Alcohols Catalyzed by a Molybdocene

A biphasic linear free energy relationship was found for the H/D exchange reactions of the H atom bonded to the α-carbon atom in substituted benzyl alcohols catalyzed by [Cp‘2MoOH(OH2)]+ in aqueous solution. This observation is consistent with a rate-limiting step involving C−H oxidative addition. Two pathways for the C−H activation are proposed, one involving formation of a π-bonded aldehyde and the other involving a σ-bonded aldehyde. Donor groups favor the σ-bonded intermediate and withdrawing groups the π-bonded intermediate.
Is parenteral nutrition therapy of value in acute renal failure patients

A patient with oliguric acute renal failure (ARF) following mitral valve surgery is presented. The patient was treated with parenteral nutrition and hemodialysis. While the patient survived, there were several complications of nutrition therapy. In this review, the benefits, risks, and uncertainties regarding parenteral nutrition in ARF are considered. First, the differences in metabolism in complicated and uncomplicated acute uremia are discussed. The important roles of alterations in intermediary metabolism and of proteases in the catabolism of ARF are emphasized. The historical basis of parenteral nutrition treatment in ARF is reviewed. The results are divided regarding the relationship among nutritional support, improvement in renal function, and enhanced patient survival. A critical analysis of nitrogen metabolism results reported in the literature does not convincingly support the effectiveness of parenteral nutrition formulae in generating positive nitrogen balance. The complications of parenteral nutrition therapy are outlined. In light of the uncertain efficacy and recognized risks of prolonged parenteral nutrition, a rationale for approaching therapy is presented that is based on the estimated metabolic stress and protein-energy requirements of the individual ARF patient.
An analysis of school structure for tadpoles (Anura: Amphibia)

The spatial relationships of Bufo woodhousei larvae were examined in the laboratory and field and compared with laboratory data for Xenopus laevis larvae. 1. Tadpoles of both species avoid positions directly in front of or behind neighbors. Bufo larvae demonstrate particularly strong preference for being directly lateral to conspecifics. Bearing relationships are different in light than in dark for Xenopus, but not for Bufo. 2. In the absence of other cues, Bufo and Xenopus tadpoles orient parallel to nearest neighbors under a variety of conditions of density, size, and in both the light and dark, although more strongly in the light. Bufo larvae show little tendency to orient antiparallel in contrast to Xenopus. Bufo typically parallelorient over greater distances than Xenopus, whether interactive distance is measured in number of nearest neighbors, centimeters, or tadpole body lengths. 3. Schooling tadpoles, in contrast to fish, tend to be relatively stationary and at random distances from their nearest neighbors.
Splitting an ordering into a partition to minimize diameter

consisting of k clusters, with k > 2. Bottom-up agglomerative approaches are also commonly used to construct partitions, and we discuss these in terms of worst-case performance for metric data sets. Our main contribution derives from a new restricted partition formulation that requires each cluster to be an interval of a given ordering of the objects being clustered. Dynamic programming can optimally split such an ordering into a partition Pk for a large class of objectives that includes min-diameter. We explore a variety of ordering heuristics and show that our algorithm, when combined with an appropriate ordering heuristic, outperforms traditional algorithms on both random and non-random data sets.
Vasoconstrictor activity of coronary sinus plasma from patients with coronary artery disease

Vasoactive properties of plasma samples taken from the coronary sinus, a systemic artery and the superior vena cava of 13 patients with angiographically proven coronary artery disease and from 5 patients with normal coronary arteriograms were assayed in vitro by measurement of the changes in tension of rings of isolated canine coronary arteries. Addition of 1 ml samples of platelet-rich plasma from the coronary sinus of patients with coronary artery disease into a 20 ml organ bath induced an initial relaxation followed by sustained constriction in bioassay coronary artery rings with endothelium and only vasoconstriction in rings without endothelium. The vasoconstrictor activity of the coronary sinus plasma showed positive correlation with the severity and extent of coronary artery narrowing. Systemic arterial and venous plasma samples from patients with coronary artery disease and the coronary sinus plasma from patients with no coronary artery disease evoked only endothelium-dependent relaxations. These vasoactive properties of the various plasma samples were similar whether the samples were taken during rest or during supine bicycle exercise. The serotoninergic receptor antagonist methiothepin prevented the vasoconstriction induced by the coronary sinus plasma samples. These data demonstrate that the coronary sinus blood of patients with atheromatous coronary artery disease exhibits vasoconstrictor activity that may be associated with 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin), presumably released from platelets.
Functional and morphologic adaptation of undersized donor hearts after heart transplantation.

Objectives This study analyzes our experience with transplantation of small donor hearts in a subgroup of moribund patients who could not be bridged to transplantation with mechanical assist devices. Background The major problem facing transplant programs in the United States is the lack of donor heart availability. One method of expanding the donor pool may be to liberalize the criteria for an acceptable donor heart. Methods We analyzed the growth and adaptation of 14 undersized and 14 conventionally sized donor hearts over a period of 10 weeks after heart transplantation. The left ventricular systolic and diastolic diameters, septal and posterior wall thicknesses, left ventricular mass calculated by the Penn convention and left ventricular ejection fraction were obtained by M-mode and twodimensional echocardiography and documented by a single reader in blinded manner. Echocardiographic measurements were obtained before implantation and at 5 and 10 weeks after orthotopic heart transplantation. Results The mean (±SD) donor/recipient weight ratios were 0.53 ± 0.06 for undersized hearts and 0.98 ± 0.05 for normalsized hearts. All 28 patients received similar immunosuppressive regimens, including intravenous steroids, cyclosporine and azathioprine. The length of hospital stay after transplantation did not vary significantly between the two groups. All the patients had at least one rejection episode during the 10-week study period. There was a tendency toward higher pulmonary pressures in undersized hearts, which was not statistically significant. Heart rate was significantly higher for undersized hearts, due in part to the use of theophylline or terbutaline to maintain tachycardia. There was a significant increase in left ventricular systolic and diastolic dimensions in undersized hearts compared with conventionally sized hearts. Undersized hearts increased in left ventricular mass over the 10-week period, whereas the conventionally sized donor hearts did not change between 5 and 10 weeks. Conclusions In undersized hearts the increase in left ventricular mass and internal dimensions, with preservation of the posterior/septal wall thickness ratio, suggests that the left ventricle adapts to the larger recipient circulation early after transplantation. Despite denervation and a mismatched load, undersized transplanted hearts adapt appropriately to their new hemodynamic milieu.
An Agent-Based Data Collection Architecture for Distributed Simulations

This paper presents an agent-based architecture for data collection and output analysis within a distributed simulation. Typically. a distributed model is decomposed into submodels that exchange entities such as system states. transitions, state durations, and objects. These submodels may run on different computers connected tinough a network Because each submodel operates in a relatively independent manner, they each have only a partial view of system characteristics. Hence it becomes necessary to provide services that facilitate data collection and analysis within the distributed simulation. The main contribution of this article is to enhance the software support to enable data collection and analysis within the distributed simulation. The framework proposed in this work is integrated within the DEVSJAVA environment, which provides a system-theoretic basis for formulating discrete event simulation models through a collection of objects. The proposed system provides a scalable distributed computing architecture. The operation of the system is illustrated through an example in automated mining. We compare our architecture with a baseline methodology in which all submodels report all data to a central database for output analysis. The experimental results show that the proposed architecture can reduce network traffic significantly, provided the data collection agent is able to choose its operational parameters appropriately. The results also show that the system is able to work well with both heavy and light network traffic cases.
Characteristics of employee drug testing policies

Based on a review of the literature on drug testing, we developed a list of 56 specific policies and practices that characterize employee drug testing practices. We surveyed 177 organizations, 72 of which (40.6%) tested applicants and/or employees for drugs, to assess the frequency with which each of the 56 characteristics was included in actual testing programs. Common testing practices included testing all applicants, and rejecting applicants who fail the test, testing for cause, circulating written descriptions of the testing program to employees, training supervisors to recognize impairment, and the use of follow up tests and other safeguards against false positives. There was significant variation in drug testing policies across industries and sectors of the economy.
Saturated hydraulic conductivities of granitic materials of the Idaho batholith

Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) of granitic bedrock in the Idaho batholith was determined using a borehole pressure testing technique. Tests were conducted at approximately 1.6 m depth increments ranging from about 1.6 m to an average maximum depth of 7.8 m. A total of 58 valid tests were obtained in nine holes located at five sites in a 145 km long transect line running north-south in the southwest quarter of the batholith. Sites represent a wide range in rock fracturing and weathering properties. Seismograph profiles were also run at each test hole. A conditional probability analysis showed that Ksat values were lognormally distributed with a lower bound at zero. Values for Ksat were unrelated to depth, rock matrix porosity, seismic velocity, or rock fracture density. However, Ksat did vary with rock weathering characteristics. Conductivity was lowest in unweathered rock probably because of restricted fracture apertures. The second least weathered rock class had the highest average Ksat. There was a general decrease in Ksat with increased weathering through the remaining five weathering classes even though rock porosity and fracture density increased with rock weathering. We believe this inverse trend in Ksat with increased weathering is the result of progressively increasing clay formation and mineral expansion that restricts flow in both fractures and the rock matrix. Ksat for bedrock averages an order of magnitude less than Ksat for soil cores and two orders of magnitude less than Ksat obtained by tracer tests during subsurface flow making shallow, sub-surface flow a major hydrologic process at many locations on the steep, mountain slopes.
Determination of Ice Water Path and Mass Median Particle Size Using Multichannel Microwave Measurements

Abstract The method of simultaneously retrieving ice water path and mass median diameter using microwave data at two frequencies is examined and implemented for tropical nonprecipitating clouds. To develop the retrieval algorithm, the authors first derived a bulk mass–size relation for ice particles in tropical clouds based on microphysical data collected during the Central Equatorial Pacific Experiment. This relation effectively allows ice particle density to decrease with particle size. In implementing the retrieval algorithm, 150- and 220-GHz Millimeter-Wave Imaging Radiometer data collected during the Tropical Ocean and Global Atmosphere Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Response Experiment were used. Ice water path and mass median diameter are determined based on a lookup table generated by a radiative transfer model. The lookup table depends on cloud type, cloud liquid water path, and atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles. Only nonprecipitating clouds are studied in this paper. Error analyses were pe...
On the Crashworthiness of Shear-Rigid Sandwich Structures

This paper deals with the evaluation of the crashworthiness of thin-walled sandwich box structures for automotive applications. Quasi-static crushing simulations are carried out to estimate the energy absorption of prismatic box columns made from sandwich sheets. The sandwich sheets have perforated cores of different densities with staggered holes perpendicular to the panel faces. It is found that the specific energy absorption of columns made of sandwich sheets is approximately the same as that of conventional columns composed of homogeneous sheets of the same total wall thickness. Furthermore, theoretical analysis indicates that by increasing the core thickness, sandwich structures could be up to 50% lighter while providing the same mean crushing force. However, these gains may not be achieved in practical applications since increasing the core thickness also increases the likelihood of premature face sheet fracture during crushing.
Building a Portfolio of Case Decisions to Teach Tax: An Illustration of Elaboration Using the Casualty Deduction

Historical cases are developed from examples of real situations and companies and are valuable pedagogical tools in our classrooms. For the tax instructor, the challenge may not rest with writing and publishing cases, but in making choices among the available case histories in the legal records to provide a portfolio for case study. In this paper the author describes one method for tax instructors to select cases into case study. The method is helpful in teaching the details of tax algorithms. Applying this method, individual readings elaborate the details of the tax provision by providing interesting examples. These elaborations act as cues in the student's memory for the basic tax algorithm. The collection of readings helps students to understand the process of applying the complexity and ambiguity of tax law to the facts presented in daily life.
Clinical comparison of two electronic spirometers with a water-sealed spirometer.

Two electronic spirometers which use a hot-wire anemometer to measure air flow were clinically compared with a water-sealed spirometer. The forced vital capacity (FVC), the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV 1 ), the FEV 1 /FVC%, the mean forced expiratory flow between 200 and 1,200 ml of the FVC, the mean forced expiratory flow during the middle half of the FVC, the mean forced expiratory flow between 75 and 85 percent of the FVC, and the maximum voluntary ventilation were determined for a group of 67 subjects. Techniques are described for connecting the spirometers in series to permit evaluation by human subjects or by syringe injection. High correlation coefficients generally were obtained when comparing the electronic spirometers with the water-sealed spirometer, but the actual range of percent difference was greater than 11 percent in all spirometric tests. The results indicate the need for systematic evaluation of electronic spirometers to characterize their deviation from accepted standards. Frequent calibration is necessary to maintain consistent performance.
High-Performance Near-IR Photodiodes: A Novel Chemistry-Based Approach to Ge and Ge–Sn Devices Integrated on Silicon

Ge/Si heterostructure diodes based on n++Si(100)/i-Ge/p-Ge and p++Si(100)/i-Ge/n-Ge stacks and intrinsic region thickness of ~350 and ~900 nm, respectively, were fabricated using a specially developed synthesis protocol that allows unprecedented control of film microstructure, morphology, and purity at complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor compatible conditions. From a growth and doping perspective, a main advantage of our inherently low-temperature (390°C) soft-chemistry approach is that all high-energy processing steps are circumvented. Current-voltage measurements of circular mesas (60-250 μm in diameter) show dark current densities as low as 6 ×10-3 A/cm2 at -1 V bias, which is clearly improved over devices fabricated under low thermal budgets using traditional Ge deposition techniques. Spectral photocurrent measurements indicate external quantum efficiencies between 30 and 60% of the maximum theoretical value at zero bias, and approaching full collection efficiency at high reverse biases. The above Ge devices are compared to analogous low-temperature-grown (350°C) Ge0.98Sn0.02 diodes. The latter display much higher dark currents but also higher collection efficiencies close to 70% at zero bias. Moreover, the quantum efficiency of these Ge0.98Sn0.02 diodes remains strong at wavelengths longer than 1550 nm out to 1750 nm due to the reduced band gap of the alloy relative to Ge.
Short-distance interconnection bandwidth: the scarce resource

We discuss the progress, challenges, and projections for short-distance optical interconnections. It will focus on hardware packaging issues. The paper will also introduce the notion that new systems architectures are needed to take advantage of the high communication bandwidth available in the new modality of interconnection.
Photosynthetically produced dissolved organic carbon: An important carbon source for planktonic bacteria1

A serial filtration technique was used to estimate microbial assimilation of photosynthetically produced dissolved organic carbon (PDOC) in Mirror Lake, New Hampshire. A single filtration at one pore size did not separate all heterotrophic microorganisms from photosynthetic algae. It was possible, however, to calculate microbial assimilation of PDOC if filters of several pore sizes were used simultaneously in combination with an independent estimate of heterotrophic activity in each size class. Microbial net assimilation of algal PDOC in the epilimnion in summer (about 2 pg C* liter-lad-‘) w’ cls of a magnitude comparable to that of total bacterial production (4-8 pg C * liter-l-d-l) as estimated by the 35S0, technique. This comparison suggests that PDOC is an important source of carbon for planktonic microbes. The amount of PDOC measured in the water is smaller than the amount actually released by phytoplankton because microbes metabolize PDOC rapidly. Failure to account for microbial utilization could lead to a serious underestimate of gross PDOC during measurements of primary production.
Indium 111 autologous tagged leukocytes in the diagnosis of intraperitoneal sepsis.

• We report the results of a new test, indium oxine In 111 scanning, in the diagnosis of postoperative infection. Indium 111 was used to label autologous polymorphonuclear leukocytes, which when reinjected migrate to sites of infection, inflammation, or both. Standard scintigraphy localizes the labeled inflammatory cells at these sites. Sixty-six scans were performed in 43 surgical patients. Thirty-seven scans were categorized as true-positive; 19 scans were categorized as true-negative. Therefore, the accuracy rate was 85%. Two scans (3%) in one patient represented false-positive results. Two scans (3%) were positive for inflammation but there was no infection present; this group was denoted as equivocal. Six scans (9%) were false-negative; false-negative scans are more likely in old lesions with poor blood supply and in areas that overlap regions of normal uptake. The noninvasive nature of the test, high accuracy rate, and ease of administration make it a potentially useful tool in the diagnosis of postoperative infection. ( Arch Surg 114:386-392, 1979)
Probing Electronic Properties of Conjugated and Saturated Molecules in Self-Assembled Monolayers

: We have measured the electron transport properties of single and bundled molecules imbedded in crystalline monolayers of alkanethiols self-assembled on Au{111} surfaces. These measurements have been performed using scanning tunneling microscopy and microwave difference frequency alternating current scanning tunneling microscopy on molecules with saturated and fully conjugated chains. We have learned to separate the contributions of the molecules and of the tunneling junction. We have also found a means to determine the value of the contact conductance due to the choice of chemical connection to the substrate.
Umbilical artery occlusion and fetoplacental thromboembolism

Background : To our knowledge, fetoplacental thromboembolism has been described only in autopsy specimens. We report the antepartum diagnosis of an umbilical artery occlusion and neonatal diagnosis of an aortic thrombus and placental emboli. Case : A gravida at 31 weeks' gestation was referred for evaluation of decreased fetal movement and an enlarged fetal bladder. A two-vessel umbilical cord with a collapsed, echogenic third vessel was noted, whereas views of a normal three-vessel cord were available from an examination 5 weeks earlier. A positive oxytocin contraction test prompted delivery. Neonatal color flow Doppler imaging demonstrated an aortic thrombus below the renal arteries and above the bifurcation. Gross and microscopic study of the placenta demonstrated necrosis of the collapsed umbilical artery and numerous placental emboli. The aortic thrombus resolved gradually, and the infant went home on the 39th day of life. Conclusion : Umbilical artery occlusion can be diagnosed ultrasonographically and may be a sign of fetoplacental thromboembolism. Assessment of fetal oxygenation status by biophysical profile or contraction stress test may be helpful in the evaluation of umbilical artery occlusion.
REMOTE OSCILLATORY RESPONSES TO A SOLAR FLARE

The processes governing energy storage and release in the Sun are both related to the solar magnetic field. We demonstrate the existence of a magnetic connection between the energy released by a flare and increased oscillatory power in the lower solar atmosphere. The oscillatory power in active regions tends to increase in response to explosive events at other locations, but not in the active region itself. We carry out timing studies and show that this effect is probably caused by a large-scale magnetic connection between the regions, instead of a globally-propagating wave. We show that oscillations tend to exist in longer-lived wave trains with short periods (P < 200 s) at the time of a flare. These wave trains may be mechanisms by which flare energy can be redistributed throughout the solar atmosphere.
Effects of davunetide on N-acetylaspartate and choline in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in patients with schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is associated with extensive neurocognitive and behavioral impairments. Studies indicate that N-acetylaspartate (NAA), a marker of neuronal integrity, and choline, a marker of cell membrane turnover and white matter integrity, may be altered in schizophrenia. Davunetide is a neurotrophic peptide that can enhance cognitive function in animal models of neurodegeneration. Davunetide has recently demonstrated modest functional improvement in a study of people with schizophrenia. In a subset of these subjects, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) was conducted to explore the effects of davunetide on change in NAA/creatine (NAA/Cr) and choline/creatine (choline/Cr) over 12 weeks of treatment. Of 63 outpatients with schizophrenia who received randomized davunetide (5 and 30 mg/day) or placebo in the parent clinical trial, 18 successfully completed 1H-MRS in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) at baseline and at 12 weeks. Cognition was assessed using the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB). NAA/Cr was unchanged for combined high- and low-dose davunetide groups (N=11). NAA/Cr in the high-dose davunetide group (N=8) suggested a trend increase of 8.0% (P=0.072) over placebo (N=7). Choline/Cr for combined high- and low-dose davunetide groups suggested a 6.4% increase (P=0.069), while the high-dose group showed a 7.9% increase (P=0.040) over placebo. Baseline NAA/Cr correlated with the composite MCCB score (R=0.52, P=0.033), as did individual cognitive domains of attention/vigilance, verbal learning, and social cognition; however, neither metabolite correlated with functional capacity. In this exploratory study, 12 weeks of adjunctive davunetide appeared to produce modest increases in NAA/Cr and choline/Cr in DLPFC in people with schizophrenia. This is consistent with a potential neuroprotective mechanism for davunetide. The data also support use of MRS as a useful biomarker of baseline cognitive function in schizophrenia. Future clinical and preclinical studies are needed to fully define the mechanism of action and cognitive effects of davunetide in schizophrenia.
Evaluation of different embryonating bird eggs and cell cultures for isolation efficiency of avian Influenza A Virus and Avian paramyxovirus serotype 1 from real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction–positive wild bird surveillance samples:

Virus isolation rates for influenza A virus (FLUAV) and Avian paramyxovirus serotype 1 (APMV-1) from wild bird surveillance samples are lower than molecular detection rates for the specific viral genomes. The current study was conducted to examine the possibility of increased virus isolation rates from real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR) using alternative virus isolation substrates such as embryonating duck eggs (EDEs), embryonating turkey eggs (ETEs), Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cell cultures, and African green monkey kidney (Vero) cell cultures. Rectal swabs of birds in the orders Anseriformes and Charadriiformes were tested by real-time RT-PCR for the presence of FLUAV and APMV-1 genomes, and virus isolation (VI) was attempted on all real-time RT-PCR-positive samples. Samples with threshold cycle (Ct) ≤ 37 had VI rates for FLUAV of 62.5%, 50%, 43.8%, 31.5%, and 31.5% in embryonating chicken eggs (ECEs), ETEs, EDEs, MDCK cells, and Vero cells, respectively. A higher isolation rate was seen with ECEs compared to either cell culture method, but similar isolation rates were identified between the different embryonating avian eggs. Virus isolation rates for APMV-1 on samples with real-time RT-PCR Ct ≤ 37 were 75%, 100%, 100%, 0%, and 37.5% in ECEs, ETEs, EDEs, MDCK cells, and Vero cells, respectively. Significantly higher VI rates were seen with ECEs as compared to either cell culture method for all real-time RT-PCR-positive samples. Because of the limited availability and high cost of ETEs and EDEs, the data support the continuing usage of ECEs for primary isolation of both FLUAV and APMV-1 from real-time RT-PCR-positive wild bird surveillance samples.
Admissions, Length of Stay, and Medication Use Among Women in an Acute Care State Psychiatric Facility

OBJECTIVE: Despite growing numbers of elderly persons with serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, little research has been conducted on the manifestation of serious mental illness in later life, and our understanding of the mental health care needs of this population is limited. This study examined length of stay and medication use among women age 50 and older admitted to an acute care state psychiatric facility. METHODS: A computerized record search for all women discharged from a large urban state psychiatric facility over a one-year period was undertaken. Demographic and resource utilization data, including total length of stay and pharmacy utilization, were obtained from the hospital database. RESULTS: The database search produced the records of 564 women, with a mean age of 37.5 years. Women constituted 60 percent of patients over age 50. The mean length of stay was 16.1 days for the entire group; for women under age 50 (N=492), mean length of stay was 15 days, and for women age 50 and older (...
Differential Role of IFN-γ-Inducible Protein 10 kDa in a Cockroach Antigen-Induced Model of Allergic Airway Hyperreactivity: Systemic Versus Local Effects

The ability of IFN-γ to antagonize established Th2 type allergic responses is well documented. To investigate the role of IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 kDa (IP10) in the allergic response, we chose to investigate the effect of IP10 neutralization on an established Th2 response. Systemic neutralization of IP10 at the time of allergen challenge increased airway hyperreactivity as well as airway eosinophil accumulation. Interestingly, IFN-γ levels were markedly reduced in both the lung and peripheral lymph node following IP10 neutralization. Furthermore, the number of CXCR3 + CD4 + T cells was decreased in the peripheral lymph node following neutralization of IP10. Introduction of exogenous IP10 into the airway at the time of allergen challenge also dramatically increased eosinophil accumulation in the airway. Protein levels of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 were significantly increased in the lung following exogenous airway administration of IP10 with allergen. Interestingly, airway hyperreactivity was significantly decreased at early time points following concurrent IP10 and allergen challenge but rebounded at 24 and 48 h post allergen challenge. Although IP10 may initially be acting locally to dampen the allergic response, its ability to recruit eosinophils may ultimately supersede any immunomodulatory effect it may have in an established allergic response. These results suggest that while systemic levels of IP10 are beneficial in controlling the allergic response, possibly by regulating cellular trafficking in the lymph node, local administration of exogenous IP10 into an established allergic response may be detrimental.
Managing culturally diverse buyer-seller relationships: The role of intercultural disposition and adaptive selling in developing intercultural communication competence

Given the increase in cultural diversity within marketing organizations as well as within current and potential customer bases, possessing the appropriate communication skills becomes crucial to success in managing culturally diverse relationships. Although marketing researchers have recognized the importance of adaptive selling behavior for successful buyer-seller relationships, the exploration of the intercultural aspects of these relationships has only recently begun. This article examines how adaptive selling behaviors and intercultural dispositions of marketing executives contribute to their perceived intercultural communication competence. Results show that in addition to being adaptive, the intercultural disposition of a marketer is of key importance in developing intercultural communication competence. Theoretical and practical implications for incorporating intercultural communication into the development of successful buyer-seller relationships are discussed.
Forty simple computer games and what they could mean to educators

The purpose of this study was to evaluate computer games or components of the games that would lend themselves for use in an educational setting. Participants included 20 men and 20 women who volunteered to participate. All participants played four randomly assigned computer-based shareware or freeware games from among eight categories. Participants offered numerous suggestions for instructional applications of the noneducational games. Results suggested diverse patterns of preference and use between genders. Participants indicated many key features regarded as essential for an effective gaming environment as well as those that distracted them from play. Trial and error was observed to be the dominant strategy used across all game categories. In addition, participants suggested numerous educational applications for common categories of computer games.
Effect of porcine conceptus secretory proteins on interestrous interval and uterine secretion of prostaglandins.

Porcine conceptus secretory proteins (pCSP) were obtained from medium in which pig conceptuses, collected on Day 15 of pregnancy, were cultured for 30 h. Culture medium was pooled, dialyzed, and concentrated by Amicon ultrafiltration for intrauterine infusion. Serum proteins (SP) were obtained from blood collected from a Day 15 pregnant gilt and diluted for intrauterine infusion. Catheters were placed into both uterine horns and the inferior vena cava of cyclic (Day 8) gilts. Single blood samples were collected at 0800 h on Days 9, 10, and 11. On Day 11, all gilts received 1 mg estradiol-17 beta (E2) i.m. at 0800 h. Protein infusions commenced on Day 12 and continued through Day 15, twice daily at 0800 h and 2000 h. Protein infusions per uterine horn were (1) 4.0 mg pCSP + 4.0 mg SP (pCSP, 4 gilts) and (2) 8.0 mg SP (SP, 4 gilts). Blood samples were collected every 15 min on Days 12 through 17 between 0805 h and 1100 h. Single blood samples were collected at 0800 h after Day 17 until gilts exhibited estrus. Concentrations of prostaglandin (PG) E, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF2 alpha (PGFM), and progesterone (P4) were measured by specific radioimmunoassays. Interestrous intervals for pCSP-treated (18.2 days) and SP-treated (18.0 days) gilts were not different (SEM = 0.8 days) and temporal changes in concentrations of P4 in plasma did not differ between pCSP-treated (29.2 ng/ml) and SP-treated (31.2 ng/ml) gilts.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Achieving HBSE Competencies Through Service-Learning

Service-learning pedagogy allows social work educators to create meaningful learning opportunities for students and better prepare them for practicum, while at the same time, meeting a community need. This paper outlines the relevance of incorporating service-learning into the social work curriculum, specifically the human behavior and the social environment (HBSE) area. Using Bloom’s taxonomy as a guide, the authors propose how the CSWE competencies and practice behaviors specific to HBSE may be assessed using service-learning pedagogy. An example is reviewed to illustrate how service-learning can assist faculty and students achieve the HBSE competencies and practice behaviors. Finally, implications for service-learning as a pedagogical strategy for social work education are discussed.
Thermal, magnetic, and transport properties of single-crystal Sr 1 − x Ca x RuO 3 ( 0 x 1 . 0 )

${\mathrm{SrRuO}}_{3}$ is a highly correlated, narrow $d$-band metal which undergoes a ferromagnetic transition at ${T}_{c}=165\mathrm{K}.$ ${\mathrm{CaRuO}}_{3},$ which is also a highly correlated metal, has the same crystal structure, comparable electrical resistivity and similar effective Ru moment, but it remains paramagnetic at least down to 1 K. High- and low-field magnetization and susceptibility, thermoremanent magnetization, low-temperature heat capacity, electrical resistivity, and Hall effect measurements are presented on as-grown, untwinned, orthorhombic single-crystal samples of ${\mathrm{Sr}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Ca}}_{x}{\mathrm{RuO}}_{3}$ for the entire concentration range $0l~xl~1.0.$ ${T}_{c}$ is depressed uniformly with increasing $x,$ all the way to $x=1.0,$ with possible spin-glass-type ordering for $x$ close to 1.0. The critical Sr doping of paramagnetic ${\mathrm{CaRuO}}_{3}$ required to cause magnetic correlations among the Ru moments is $\ensuremath{\cong}1\mathrm{at}.%.$ Magnetization to 7 T shows strong hysteresis for mixed $(xg0)$ crystals only, with evidence for a rotation of the easy magnetic axis out of the $\mathrm{ab}$ plane. Low-temperature magnetization in dc fields to 30 T for $x=0$ shows a lack of saturation to the full $S=1$ moment, $2{\ensuremath{\mu}}_{B}/\mathrm{Ru}\mathrm{}\mathrm{atom},$ underscoring the itinerant character of the ferromagnetism. Similar data for $x=1.0$ show it to be a highly exchange enhanced paramagnet, a borderline antiferromagnet or ferromagnet. This is consistent with previous Ru-O in-plane and out-of-plane doping studies. Low-temperature heat capacity $(1lTl20\mathrm{K})$ shows that the mass enhancement ($\ensuremath{\gamma}=29{\mathrm{m}\mathrm{J}/\mathrm{m}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{l}\mathrm{}\mathrm{K}}^{2}$ and ${m}^{*}\ensuremath{\approx}3$ for $x=0$) and the Debye temperature (${\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{D}=390\mathrm{K}$ for $x=0$) are nonmonotonically varying with increasing $x.$ The large electrical resistivity suggests these materials are ``bad'' metals, with a mean free path at room temperature $\ensuremath{\approx}10\mathrm{A}$ for $x=0.$ The Hall effect shows a sign reversal for $x=0$ and $x=1.0,$ but not for mixed crystals. The data are compared where it is appropriate to data derived from comparable experiments from polycrystalline samples and from epitaxially grown thin films. The results support the highly electron-correlated nature of ordered magnetism in Ru-based oxides and the results should help to advance our understanding of the transport, magnetic, and thermodynamic properties of bad metals.
Small-incision 4-point scleral suture fixation of a foldable hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens in the absence of capsule support

Purpose To determine the visual outcomes and complications of a new small-incision technique for 4-point fixation of a hydrophilic acrylic posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) in the absence of capsule support. Setting Three North American tertiary referral centers and a private practice. Design Retrospective case series. Methods Secondary IOL placement was performed from 2011 to 2014. Indications for surgery, clinical results, and complications were analyzed. Primary outcomes included postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and surgical complications. Results Charts of 35 patients (37 eyes) were reviewed. The mean age at surgery was 56 years, and the mean follow-up was 6 months (range 3 to 24 months). Clinical indications included a dislocated IOL (30%), ocular trauma (19%), crystalline lens subluxation (19%), uveitis–glaucoma–hyphema syndrome (5%), post-complicated cataract (8%), congenital cataract (8%), and decompensated cornea (3%). The mean CDVA improved from 20/80 preoperatively to 20/40 postoperatively ( P Conclusion Small-incision 4-point scleral fixation of the Akreos AO60 hydrophilic acrylic IOL in the absence of capsule support appears to be a safe and effective technique for secondary IOL placement. Financial Disclosures Drs. Berdahl and Ayres are consultants to Bausch & Lomb, Inc. Drs. Ayres and Fram have received speaker fees from Bausch & Lomb. Dr. Terveen does not have a financial or proprietary interest in any material or methods mentioned.
Embeddings of topological products of circularly chainable continua

In a recent paper (5), the author has established the Euclidean spaces of least dimension in which the topological products of finite collections of k-cell-like continua can be embedded. Specifically, it was shown that, for each pair of positive integers k and n, the topological product of any collection of n k-cell-like continua can be embedded in Euclidean space of dimension k(n + 1). This result includes a theorem of Bennett (1) that the topological product of any finite collection of n snakelike continua can be embedded in Euclidean space of dimension n + 1.
Effect of experimental parameters on optimal reflection of light from opaque media

Previously we considered the effect of experimental parameters on optimized transmission through opaque media using spatial light modulator (SLM)--based wavefront shaping. In this study we consider the opposite geometry, in which we optimize reflection from an opaque surface such that the backscattered light is focused onto a spot on an imaging detector. By systematically varying different experimental parameters (genetic algorithm iterations, bin size, SLM active area, target area, spot size, and sample angle with respect to the optical axis) and optimizing the reflected light we determine how each parameter affects the intensity enhancement. We find that the effects of the experimental parameters on the enhancement are similar to those measured for a transmissive geometry, but with the exact functional forms changed due to the different geometry and the use of a genetic algorithm instead of an iterative algorithm. Additionally, we find preliminary evidence of greater enhancements than predicted by random matrix theory, suggesting a possibly new physical mechanism to be investigated in future work.
Methodology of transient simulation in time domain for DG and microgrid(3): case study and validation

Typical DGs and corresponding control strategies are selected for validating the correctness and effectiveness of transient simulation algorithm for DG system.Different DG systems are modeled and simulated,including PV,SOFC,microturbine and battery.The transients from grid-connected mode to islanded mode are investigated for typical European low-voltage microgrid and the simulative results are compared in detail between TSDG and MATLAB / SimPowerSystems,which shows the maximum relative error is less than 0.1 %,proving the high numerical accuracy and numerical stability of TSDG.The application of pseudo Newton method enhances the calculation speed.The concepts of parallel processing and multi-rate algorithm to improve the calculation performance in future work are discussed.
Achieving Mental Health Care Parity Might Require Changes In Payments And Competition

One of the most prominent features of the Affordable Care Act has been the promotion of individual health plans chosen by consumers in the Marketplaces. These plans are subject to regulation and paid by risk-adjusted capitation, a set of policies known as managed competition. Individual health insurance markets, however, are vulnerable to what economists describe as efficiency problems stemming from adverse selection, and Marketplaces are no exception. Health plans have incentives to discriminate against services used by people with certain chronic illnesses, including mental health conditions. Parity regulations, which dictate coverage for mental health benefits on par with medical and surgical benefits, can eliminate discrimination in coverage but redirect discrimination toward hard-to-regulate tactics from managed care such as restrictive network design and provider payment. This article reviews policy options to contend with ongoing selection issues. “Better enforcement” of parity has less chance of s...
Anwendung des Kulturmanagements in der Betriebspraxis

Als Ubungsbeispiel werden hier die Arbeitsszenen aus dem Projektalltag ausgesucht. Die konkreten Ablaufbeschreibungen sowie die Darstellung der Uberlegungen aus asiatischer Sichtweise zeigen Ihnen die Moglichkeit, wie sich die Kulturmanagements-Werkzeuge in der Praxis anwenden lassen.
Implementing and refining a Reflective Portfolio course sequence in a college of pharmacy

Abstract Background and purpose In 2007, ACPE Standards and Guidelines were modified to include a requirement for standardized student portfolios with self-assessment of curricular outcomes and faculty assessment of student portfolio entries. The objective of this article is to describe the initial structure, components, and evolution of a Reflective Portfolio course sequence designed to meet this requirement. Educational activity and setting An e-portfolio process embedded within a Reflective Portfolio course sequence in which students provided self-assessment of curricular outcomes and faculty assessed student entries was developed and implemented. Following course implementation, a structured evaluation plan was developed and implemented to obtain feedback from students via surveys and focus groups. Eight student surveys were administered over three years. Findings Overall, feedback from the surveys identified that 47–87% of students indicated that some outcomes were more difficult to reflect on than others. Surveys also helped to identify the specific outcomes with which students struggled to find evidence and complete reflections. Student focus group feedback was categorized into the following six themes: course timing, lectures, workshops, evidence and portfolio entries, grading and advisors, and other. Discussion Based on the results of surveys and focus groups, the timing of lectures and workshops was modified, the curricular outcomes assigned to each year were changed and the number of outcomes assigned for reflection on an annual basis was decreased. Summary A quality improvement approach was utilized in the development and evolution of this Reflective Portfolio course sequence. This approach resulted in a four-year course sequence with e-portfolio student reflections evaluated by faculty advisors.
Modern Portfolio Theory. II

The previous column presented the basic ideas of modern portfolio theory (MPT). This column covers additional aspects of the theory and presents a result known as the capital asset pricing model (CAPM). The underlying theory is not always easy to grasp on a first encounter but is presented here because it plays a central role in investment theory and practice
Choosing among qualitative traditions

The qualitative research beginner is attracted to the joys of exploring the authentic experiences of his or her fellow beings. It may be a surprise to confront the complexity of the varying qualitative traditions. The purpose of this article is to demystify some of the more common traditions, and to give guidance to the qualitative beginner.
Security verification of hardware-enabled attestation protocols

Hardware-software security architectures can significantly improve the security provided to computer users. However, we are lacking a security verification methodology that can provide design-time verification of the security properties provided by such architectures. While verification of an entire hardware-software security architecture is very difficult today, this paper proposes a methodology for verifying essential aspects of the architecture. We use attestation protocols proposed by different hardware security architectures as examples of such essential aspects. Attestation is an important and interesting new requirement for having trust in a remote computer, e.g., in a cloud computing scenario. We use a finite-state model checker to model the system and the attackers, and check the security of the protocols against attacks. We provide new actionable heuristics for designing invariants that are validated by the model checker and thus used to detect potential attacks. The verification ensures that the invariants hold and the protocol is secure. Otherwise, the protocol design is updated on a failure and the verification is re-run.