cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of business internships on job marketability: the employers' perspective

– This paper seeks to report the results of an empirical investigation of the relationship between internship participation and student employment marketability. The study aims to identify the value that employers attribute to internships as a qualification for employment and as a factor in determining compensation., – The study presents the results of a survey of 185 employers of 392 interns enrolled in an AACSB‐accredited business college in a Northeastern US university. The survey examined the perceived value of the internship experience, the effect of intern performance on internship value perceptions, and the relationship between internship participation and employer selection and compensation decisions., – The survey results indicate significantly more full‐time opportunities for undergraduates with internship experience, corroborating earlier published empirical research. Additionally, while even average‐performing interns were significantly more likely to receive full‐time job offers than non‐interns, high‐performing interns were more likely to receive higher starting salaries. Finally, the study shows that high intern performance results in enhanced employer‐perceived value of the internship program., – Field internships are endorsed by business schools as an effective way to gain practical experience and enhance employment marketability. However, few studies have provided empirical evidence linking internship participation to success in postgraduation employment. The study confirms the value of an internship in job marketability. In addition, the study provides an estimate of the perceived value of internship experience in employee compensation. Finally, the paper affirms the internship as a component of experiential learning that can enhance the employability development opportunities offered by institutions of higher learning.
Getting Off to a Bad Start: The Relationship Between Communication During an Initial Episode of a Serial Argument and Argument Frequency

This study explores the relationships between features of an initial serial argumentative episode and the number of subsequent episodes. Initiators of the initial episode report a self-demand/partner-withdraw pattern occurs and this pattern is positively related to the number of subsequent episodes. Also, targets of the initial episode report that in the first episode they engaged in partner-demand/self-withdraw, and this pattern was positively related to their perception of constructive outcomes, but these constructive outcomes are not related to the number of subsequent episodes. Participants report that mutual hostility often results in partner-demand/self-withdraw, which is positively related to constructive outcomes. This model is produced in a sample of individuals in intact relationships and replicated in a sample of participants in terminated relationships.
Perioperative Single Dose Systemic Dexamethasone for Postoperative Pain: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background Dexamethasone is frequently administered in the perioperative period to reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting. In contrast, the analgesic effects of dexamethasone are not well defined. The authors performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the dose-dependent analgesic effects of perioperative dexamethasone. Methods We followed the PRISMA statement guidelines. A wide search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effects of a single dose systemic dexamethasone on postoperative pain and opioid consumption. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effect model. Effects of dexamethasone dose were evaluated by pooling studies into three dosage groups: low (less than 0.1 mg/kg), intermediate (0.11-0.2 mg/kg) and high (≥ 0.21 mg/kg). Results Twenty-four randomized clinical trials with 2,751 subjects were included. The mean (95% CI) combined effects favored dexamethasone over placebo for pain at rest (≤ 4 h, -0.32 [0.47 to -0.18], 24 h, -0.49 [-0.67 to -0.31]) and with movement (≤ 4 h, -0.64 [-0.86 to -0.41], 24 h, -0.47 [-0.71 to -0.24]). Opioid consumption was decreased to a similar extent with moderate -0.82 (-1.30 to -0.42) and high -0.85 (-1.24 to -0.46) dexamethasone, but not decreased with low-dose dexamethasone -0.18 (-0.39-0.03). No increase in analgesic effectiveness or reduction in opioid use could be demonstrated between the high- and intermediate-dose dexamethasone. Preoperative administration of dexamethasone appears to produce a more consistent analgesic effect compared with intraoperative administration. Conclusion Dexamethasone at doses more than 0.1 mg/kg is an effective adjunct in multimodal strategies to reduce postoperative pain and opioid consumption after surgery. The preoperative administration of the drug produces less variation of effects on pain outcomes.
Hormonal control of pulmonary surfactant synthesis.

Abstract The specific activities of palmitoyl-CoA synthetase, phospholipase A2, and lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase enzymes were low in the lungs of diabetic and hypophysectomized rats as compared to those found in the normal controls. Administration of triiodothyronine (T3), to the diabetic and hypophysectomized rats restored the normal activities of these enzymes. Stimulation of the enzyme activities were also observed when normal rats were injected with the above hormone. The enhancement of the enzyme activities was also found to be dependent on the dose and duration of the hormonal treatment. Optimum levels were achieved at a dose of about 100 μg/100 g body weight of T3, 3–4 days after the administration of this hormone. Actinomycin D or cycloheximide abolished the hormone-mediated stimulation of these enzymes in diabetic and hypophysectomized rats. Reduced rate of in vivo palmitoyl-CoA synthetase synthesis was observed in the lungs of diabetic and hypophysectomized animals. Administration of T3 stimulated the rate of synthesis of this enzyme indicating increasing synthesis of this enzyme and not of activation of the pre-existing inactive species. Reduced phospholipid contents, specially decreased amount of lecithin and dipalmitoyl lecithin (DPL) were observed in the lungs of the diabetic and hypophysectomized animals as compared to those in the normal animals. T3 also increased the lecithin and DPL content of the normal rat lungs. These results provide evidence for the involvement of the thyroid hormones in the control of the pulmonary surfactant. The results further suggest that T3 was capable of inducing the enzymes of the “deacylation-reacylation” pathway involved in palmitate incorporation into phosphatidylcholine thereby contributing to the stimulation of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis.
Effects on Body Temperature Produced by Micro-Injection of Prostaglandin into the Third Cerebral Ventricle of the Chicken

Abstract Hens injected with 1–2 μg. of either prostaglandin E1 or F1α into the third cerebral ventrical had significantly higher (P
Crystal structures of an intrinsically active cholera toxin mutant yield insight into the toxin activation mechanism

Cholera toxin (CT) is a heterohexameric bacterial protein toxin belonging to a larger family of A/B ADP-ribosylating toxins. Each of these toxins undergoes limited proteolysis and/or disulfide bond reduction to form the enzymatically active toxic fragment. Nicking and reduction render both CT and the closely related heat-labile enterotoxin from Escherichia coli (LT) unstable in solution, thus far preventing a full structural understanding of the conformational changes resulting from toxin activation. We present the first structural glimpse of an active CT in structures from three crystal forms of a single-site A-subunit CT variant, Y30S, which requires no activational modifications for full activity. We also redetermined the structure of the wild-type, proenzyme CT from two crystal forms, both of which exhibit (i) better geometry and (ii) a different A2 "tail" conformation than the previously determined structure [Zhang et al. (1995) J. Mol. Biol. 251, 563-573]. Differences between wild-type CT and active CTY30S are observed in A-subunit loop regions that had been previously implicated in activation by analysis of the structure of an LT A-subunit R7K variant [van den Akker et al. (1995) Biochemistry 34, 10996-11004]. The 25-36 activation loop is disordered in CTY30S, while the 47-56 active site loop displays varying degrees of order in the three CTY30S structures, suggesting that disorder in the activation loop predisposes the active site loop to a greater degree of flexibility than that found in unactivated wild-type CT. On the basis of these six new views of the CT holotoxin, we propose a model for how the activational modifications experienced by wild-type CT are communicated to the active site.
Quantum Instability of Dimensional Reduction

Abstract We study the question of whether quantum effects can cause certain classically allowed patterns of dimensional reduction to become unstable. In particular, in the case of general relativity with d toroidally compact dimensions in D -dimensional space-time, we show by means of a one-loop effective potential computation that the only stable possibility is for one of the d dimensions to contract and the other ( d − 1) dimensions to expand.
Facial asymmetry in superior oblique muscle palsy and pulley heterotopy

Abstract Introduction: Some observers have considered facial asymmetry as characteristic of congenital superior oblique muscle (SO) palsy. However, recent orbital imaging studies have determined that incomitant vertical strabismus resembling SO palsy can be caused by heterotopic rectus muscle pulleys. This finding suggests that facial asymmetry may predict the presence of abnormal orbital anatomy rather than be secondary to ocular torticollis. Methods: Subjects who underwent orbital computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging were divided into 5 groups based on clinical evaluation and previously established imaging criteria: (1) congenital SO palsy; (2) acquired SO palsy; (3) strabismus with pulley heterotopy; (4) strabismus without SO palsy or pulley heterotopy; and (5) orthotropic subjects. Frontal photographs were digitized and the following 3 facial morphometric features recorded: (1) angle of inclination of each orbit; (2) relative facial size; and (3) facial angle. Results: The 79 subjects who underwent imaging were divided into the 5 groups as follows: 6 with congenital SO palsy; 7 with acquired SO palsy; 20 with pulley heterotopy; 26 with strabismus without SO palsy or pulley heterotopy; and 20 control subjects. All subjects with either congenital or acquired SO palsy had torticollis. Multivariate analysis demonstrated no significant differences in any of the 3 facial morphometric features among any of the groups. Conclusion: Facial asymmetry as assessed by these 3 morphometric features is not useful in distinguishing between congenital SO palsy or pulley heterotopy and other acquired forms of strabismus. This finding casts doubt on the relationship between ocular torticollis and facial asymmetry. (J AAPOS 2000;4:233–9)
Quantum-based SI traceable electric-field probe

We are presently investigating the feasibility of developing a technique that will allow direct traceable microwave electric field (E-field) measurements. The new approach is based on atomic rf-resonance spectroscopy, where an applied electrical field causes a transition between high-lying Rydberg states of an atom. The new technique will allow direct E-field measurements traceable to fundamental physical constants and SI units. If successful, this self calibrating probe will provide more accurate field measurements along with better sensitivity than do present techniques. Direct traceable E-field measurements with sensitivities below 0.1 V/m could be possible.
Biosynthetic preparation of diethylstilbestrol monoglucuronide – (glucuronyl‐U‐14C)

The production of diethylstilbestrol monoglucuronide – (glucuronyl-U-14C) by incubation of uridine diphospho-D- glucuronic acid-U-14C with diethylstilbestrol in the presence of guinea pig liver microsomes is described. The specific activity of the product was 9.1 mCi/mmole and the overall radiochemical yield was 13%, based on UDPGA – (glucuronyl-U-14C).
Upgrading home heating systems improved subjective symptoms in children with asthma.

P Howden-Chapman Prof P Howden-Chapman, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand; philippa.howden-chapman@otago.ac.nz Does upgrading home heating systems improve the health of children with asthma? ### Design: randomised controlled trial. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00489762 ### Allocation: concealed. ### Blinding: unblinded. ### Follow-up period: baseline measures taken during winter 2005 and follow-up measures taken during winter 2006. ### Setting: households in 5 communities in New Zealand. ### Patients: 409 children 6–12 years of age who had physician diagnosed asthma that was symptomatic in the previous year and slept ⩾4 nights/week in a house with a less effective form of heating (unflued gas or plug-in electric heaters). ### Intervention: installation of a non-polluting, more effective replacement heater (heat pump, wood pellet burner, or flued gas) before winter 2006 (n = 200) or maintenance of the old heating system for another winter (n = 209) (this group received new heaters after completion of the trial). Houses in both groups were insulated to …
3′,5′-Diesters of 5-fluoro-′-deoxyuridine and thymidine: Hydrolysis by esterases in human, mouse, and insect tissue☆

Abstract 3′,5′-Aliphatic diesters of 5-fluoro-2′-deoxyuridine (FUDR) and thymidine are hydrolyzed by homogenates and centrifugal fractions of normal and tumor tissues taken from humans and mice, and by homogenates of houseflies and pea aphids. The esterases involved are widely distributed among all tissues and tissue fractions examined; are more active in most of the normal mouse tissues than in the mouse tumor or human tissues studied; generally have optimal activity with FUDR esters containing C4 to C8 acids; hydrolyze thymidine esters more rapidly than FUDR esters; and are sensitive to inhibition by organophosphates and eserine. The rate and site of initial attack on the 3′,5′-diesters depend on the esterase source and the ester chain length. Activity of these esterases is inhibited in vivo by administration of selective organophosphates.
Diversity in mechanisms of substrate oxidation by cytochrome P450 2D6. Lack of an allosteric role of NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase in catalytic regioselectivity.

Cytochrome P450 (P450) 2D6 was first identified as the polymorphic human debrisoquine hydroxylase and subsequently shown to catalyze the oxidation of a variety of drugs containing a basic nitrogen. Differences in the regioselectivity of oxidation products formed in systems containing NADPH-P450 reductase/NADPH and the model oxidant cumene hydroperoxide have been proposed by others to be due to an allosteric influence of the reductase on P450 2D6 (Modi, S., Gilham, D. E., Sutcliffe, M. J., Lian, L.-Y., Primrose, W. U., Wolf, C. R., and Roberts, G. C. K. (1997) Biochemistry 36, 4461–4470). We examined the differences in the formation of oxidation products ofN-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyridine, metoprolol, and bufuralol between reductase-, cumene hydroperoxide-, and iodosylbenzene-supported systems. Catalytic regioselectivity was not influenced by the presence of the reductase in any of the systems supported by model oxidants, ruling out allosteric influences. The presence of the reductase had little effect on the affinity of P450 2D6 for any of these three substrates. The addition of the reaction remnants of the model oxidants (cumyl alcohol and iodobenzene) to the reductase-supported system did not affect reaction patterns, arguing against steric influences of these products on catalytic regioselectivity. Label from H218O was quantitatively incorporated into 1′-hydroxybufuralol in the iodosylbenzene- but not in the reductase- or cumene hydroperoxide-supported reactions. We conclude that the P450 systems utilizing NADPH-P450 reductase, cumene hydroperoxide, and iodosylbenzene use similar but distinct chemical mechanisms. These differences are the basis for the variable product distributions, not an allosteric influence of the reductase.
The Effect of Meal-Eating on Egg Production and Body Weight of White Leghorn Chickens

Abstract S. C. White Leghorn adult females were fed a diet, with 17.5 percent protein and metabolizable energy of 3.00 kcal./g., under 6 different schedules for 6 weeks starting soon after the onset of egg production. Hens converted to meal-eaters and fed split schedules of two 2½-hour periods or one 4-hour period had significantly improved feed/egg ratios of 15 and 11 percent on 20 and 23 percent less food, respectively, as compared to controls fed ad libitum. Body weights on restricted schedules showed no change or a 3 to 5 percent loss, as compared to control body weight which increased 9 percent during the 6 weeks of the experiment. Meal-eaters on two 1½-hour or two 2-hour periods produced 8 percent less eggs with a total weight 20 percent less than the 22.0 kg. of eggs produced by the ad libitum fed groups. The latter restricted groups showed no significant improvement in feed/egg ratios. Following the restricted feeding schedules, the hens were observed for 8 weeks on ad libitum feeding schedules. Those previously restricted the most consumed more diet and gained enough weight to equal or exceed control values.
Dark recovery of uv-irradiated phage TI. I. A minor recovery effect whose exclusion permits the study of survival kinetics under presumably repairless conditions.

The survival of uv-irradiated phage Tl is much lower in excision repair- deficient than in excision repair-proficient E.coli cells, due to lack of host ceH reactivation (HCR). sn additional decrease in phage survival occurs when repair-deficient (HCR-) host cells have been exposed to uv doses from 3000 to 10,000 erg mm/-sup 2/ of 254 nm uv radiation prior to infection. The observed effect is attributed to loss of a minor phage recovery process, which requires neither the bacterial excision repair nor the bacterial REC repair system. This type of recovery is little affected by caffeine or acriflavine at concentrations that preclude HCR completely. Its full inhibition by uv-irradiation of the cells requires on approximately 8 times larger dose than complete inhibition of HCR. In heavily preirradiated cells, the TI burst size is extremely small and multiplicity reactivation is considerably less extensive than in unirradiated cells. Presumably the survival of singly infecting Tl in these cells reflects absence of any type of repair. The observed phage sensitivity and shape of the curve are compatible with the expectation for completely repairless conditions. The mechanism underlying the minor recovery is not known; theoretical considerations make a phage REC repair mechanism seem likely. (auth)
Enkephalin Glycopeptide Analogues Produce Analgesia with Reduced Dependence Liability

Endogenous peptides (e.g. enkephalins) control many aspects of brain function, cognition, and perception. The use of these neuroactive peptides in diverse studies has led to an increased understanding of brain function. Unfortunately, the use of brain-derived peptides as pharmaceutical agents to alter brain chemistry in vivo has lagged because peptides do not readily penetrate the blood−brain barrier. Attachment of simple sugars to enkephalins increases their penetration of the blood−brain barrier and allows the resulting glycopeptide analogues to function effectively as drugs. The δ-selective glycosylated Leu-enkephalin amide 2, H2N-Tyr-d-Thr-Gly-Phe-Leu-Ser(β-d-Glc)-CONH2, produces analgesic effects similar to morphine, even when administered peripherally, yet possesses reduced dependence liability as indicated by naloxone-precipitated withdrawal studies. Similar glycopeptide-based pharmaceuticals hold forth the promise of pain relief with improved side-effect profiles over currently available opioid an...
Satellite remote sounding of atmospheric boundary layer temperature inversions over the subtropical eastern Pacific

[1] We describe atmospheric temperature inversions and height-resolved water vapor fields over the wintertime subtropical northeastern Pacific Ocean in observations by the satellite-borne Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) experiment. A comparison with model analyses shows good agreement in temperature. Water vapor comparisons with operational radiosondes at four sites in California and Hawaii during December 2002–January 2003 have low biases in the 1000–700 and 700–500 hPa layers. Maps of inversion frequency, and, water vapor at 1000–700 and 700–500 hPa over the subtropical northeast Pacific during 1–16 January 2003–when high pressure and clear conditions prevail–show inversions occurring at a local minimum in water vapor at 1000–700 hPa. Water vapor at 700–500 hPa has a broad minimum extending from Baja California to Hawaii, with inversions found on its eastern half. These observations illustrate the potential of the AIRS data for describing a climatology of temperature and water vapor in subtropical oceanic regions.
Evaluation of trauma team performance using an advanced human patient simulator for resuscitation training.

Background: Human patient simulation (HPS) has been used since 1969 for teaching purposes. Only recently has technology advanced to allow application to the complex field of trauma resuscitation. The purpose of our study was to validate an advanced HPS as an evaluation tool of trauma team resuscitation skills. Methods: The pilot study evaluated 10 three-person military resuscitation teams from community hospitals that participated in a 28-day rotation at a civilian trauma center. Each team consisted of physicians, nurses, and medics. Using the HPS, teams were evaluated on arrival and again on completion of the rotation. In addition, the 10 trauma teams were compared with 5 expert teams composed of experienced trauma surgeons and nurses. Two standardized trauma scenarios were used, representing a severely injured patient with multiple injuries and with an Injury Severity Score of 41 (probability of survival, 50%). Performance was measured using a unique human performance assessment tool that included five scored and eight timed tasks generally accepted as critical to the initial assessment and treatment of a trauma patient. Scored tasks included airway, breathing, circulation, and disability assessments as well as overall organizational skills and a total score. The nonparametric Wilcoxon test was used to compare the military teams’ scores for scenarios 1 and 2, and the comparison of the military teams’ final scores with the expert teams. A value of p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The 10 military teams demonstrated significant improvement in four of the five scored (p < 0.05) and six of the eight timed (p < 0.05) tasks during the final scenario. This improvement reflects the teams’ cumulative didactic and clinical experience during the 28-day trauma refresher course as well as some degree of simulator familiarization. Improved final scores reflected efficient and coordinated team efforts. The military teams’ initial scores were worse than the expert group in all categories, but their final scores were only lower than the expert groups in 2 of 13 measurements (p < 0.05). Conclusion: No studies have validated the use of the HPS as an effective teaching or evaluation tool in the complex field of trauma resuscitation. These pilot data demonstrate the ability to evaluate trauma team performance in a reproducible fashion. In addition, we were able to document a significant improvement in team performance after a 28-day trauma refresher course, with scores approaching those of the expert teams.
Veterans' attitudes regarding a database for genomic research.

Purpose: Large cohort studies to investigate interactions between genes, environment, and lifestyle require large representative samples of the population. The Department of Veterans Affairs health care system is uniquely positioned to carry out such research, with a large patient population and a sophisticated system of electronic medical records. As Veterans Affairs considers establishing a large database of genetic information and medical records for research purposes, a survey of 931 Veterans Affairs patients was carried out to measure their willingness to participate, what their concerns would be, and their preferences about some aspects of study design. Methods: A sample of veterans who receive Veterans Affairs health care was surveyed online in April and May of 2008. The proposed genomic study was described to respondents, who then were asked about their support for the study and willingness to participate, and their opinions about the study and some of its components. A descriptive analysis examined differences in attitudes among demographic groups, and whether general beliefs were associated with support or willingness to participate. Results: Most respondents (83%) said the database should definitely or probably be created, and overall, 71% said they would definitely or probably participate. Conclusion: Majorities of Veterans Affairs health patients in a broad range of demographic groups supported the establishment of a genomic database and showed willingness to participate. Although the desire to learn about one's own health from the study was high, altruistic characteristics were strongly related to whether or not veterans would participate.
Lessons Learned from the Kepler Mission and Space Telescope Management

This paper presents lessons learned over the course of several space telescope mission and instrument developments spanning two decades. These projects involved astronomical telescopes developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and were designed to further our understanding of the Universe. It is hoped that the lessons drawn from these experiences may be of use to future mission developers.
Separation of Bone Marrow Cells by Sedimentation at Unit Gravity

THE extreme heterogeneity of the bone marrow in which leucocytes and erythrocytes develop has impeded studies of the biochemical changes accompanying the growth and maturation of these cells. All stages of their development are intermingled in this tissue, together with other cell types. Centrifugation in density gradients, exploiting differences in sedimentation rate1 and in buoyant density2,3, electrophoresis in specially designed apparatus4, or sedimentation at 1g in a density-stabilized system of horizontally flowing liquid layers5 have achieved the separation of myeloid cells from erythroid but provided little or no resolution of the maturing cells within these series.
Viscious Drag Computation for Axisymmetric Bodies at High Reynolds Numbers

A critical comparison has been made between the drag characteristics of a number of the best available axisymmetric body shapes using a numerical drag calculation scheme. Assuming a turbulent boundary layer over most of the body surface at Rv = 10 , the study shows that all profiles have almost equal drag coefficients when referenced to the two-third power of the body volume. However, based on the projected area, several laminar bodies were found to have substantially lower drag coefficients. Transition studies indicate that a short run of laminar boundary-layer flow, XIL to about 0.2, may be expected by moving the maximum thickness forward and carefully designing the nose shape through the inverse method. At Rv = 5 x 10, all bodies, with the exception of the Shark and F-57, have the same transition and drag characteristics. The study also shows that the F-57 shape has a much higher transition risk than the Shark in the range 0 . 0 8 < X / L < 0 . 1 3 . Otherwise, the F-57 shape has better performance. Increasing the flow acceleration in this range is expected to eliminate the transition possibility and the superiority of the F-57 profile becomes undisputed.
Some answers to puzzles in testing unbiasedness in the foreign exchange market

Similar but alternative specifications of tests of forward rate unbiasedness provide conflicting evidence on the rejection of the hypothesis. These conflicting results are reconciled by demonstrating that although the root cause is simultaneity bias, the severity of this bias and the resulting rejection or non-rejection of the hypothesis depends entirely on the relative error variance empirical regularity common to foreign exchange markets. The analysis presented here applies to both stationary and non-stationary specifications of the model.
Phase studies of the Cd-Fe-Se system in the Cd-rich region

The cadmium-rich region of the semi-magnetic semiconductor Cd-Fe-Se phase diagram has been partially determined, for the first time, by x-ray diffraction techniques and by metallurgical microscopy. The maximum solid solubility of iron in CdSe, employing annealing techniques, has been found in this work to be about 19 at. % at 925°C, while the solid solubility limit is generally discussed to be about 12 at %. The CdFeSe system appears to be a pseudo-binary one. Further considerations about the structure of this system are discussed.
Public administration implications of the north american free trade agreement

The emerging North American trade bloc presents both challenges and opportunities for Mexico, Canada, and the United States. Free trade among disparate partners is a complex undertaking. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) will bring important benefits to all three countries, but it will also raise many important issues. The sharp differences in wage rates, worker productivity, and education levels among the partners has fueled fears of job losses on both sides of the border. Disparity among NAFTA nations on labor practices, health and occupational safety laws and regulations are also sources of conflict. Effective dispute resolution mechanisms must exist for both the trade and non-trade issues. Practical guidance, in this regard, can come from the experience of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) and the European Economic Community (EEC; European Union since 1993). New political and administration mechanisms will be required to deal with each of these challenging issues.
Galaxy formation: Caught in the act?

Which came first, the stars and gas that make up a galaxy, or the giant black hole at its centre? Observations of a distant galaxy, caught as it forms, could help solve this chicken-and-egg problem.
Cultural Dimensions: A Factor Analysis of the World Ethnographic Sample1

This research (a) scales quantitatively the 30 cultural characteristics of Murdock's (1957) World Ethnographic Sample, (b) correlates them over all 565 societies, (c) factors these correlations, to show that nine dimensions largely summarize the original 30 characteristics, and (d) repeats the correlation and factoring separately in all six cultural regions, to show that these characteristics are related at least partly because of functional necessity rather than solely because of historical diffusion from a common source. This general finding, like the many specific relations here reported, is supported by the large size of the sample, by its worldwide representativeness, and by use of the same variables throughout—but above all by the comparisons between regions.
Kinetics of the gas-phase reaction CH3F + I2 ? CH2FI + HI: The C?H bond dissociation energy in methyl and methylene fluorides

The kinetics of the gas-phase reaction of CH3F with I2 have been studied spectrophotometrically from 629 to 710 K, and were determined to be consistent with the following mechanism: (1) A least-squares analysis of the kinetic data taken in the initial stages of reaction resulted in where θ = 4.575T/1000 kcal/mol. The errors represent one standard deviation. The experimental activation energy E4 = 30.8 ± 0.2 kcal/mol was combined with the assumption E3 = 1 ± 1 kcal/mol and estimated heat capacities to obtain The enthalpy change at 298 K was combined with selected thermochemical data to derive The kinetic studies of ĊHF2 and CH2F2 have been reevaluated to yield These results are combined with literature data to yield the CH, CF, and CCl bond dissociation energies in their respective fluoromethanes, and the effect of α-fluorine substitution is discussed.
Students versus faculty members as admissions interviewers: comparisons of ratings data and admissions decisions.

PURPOSE To explore variations both in interview ratings data and in medical school admissions decisions when current medical students do and do not participate in interviewing applicants. METHOD The research team conducted this randomized controlled trial by performing identical analyses for each of six independent cohorts of applicants (n = 3,868) to Baylor College of Medicine for the academic years 2005-2006 through 2010-2011. A pair of randomly selected interviewers--either two faculty members or a faculty member and a student--interviewed each applicant in a one-on-one interview. RESULTS Interviewer pairs randomly structured to include either two faculty members (n = 1,523) or one faculty member and one student (n = 2,345) produced ratings of similar means as well as homogeneity across ratings. The structure of the rater pairs, as expected, was not predictive of the final admissions decisions after the authors took into account Medical College Admission Test scores and grade point average. CONCLUSIONS These results, showing that student involvement does not compromise the ratings of interviewed applicants, support the continued involvement of students in medical school admissions interviews.
Feedback-Seeking and Social Networking Behaviors During Job Search A Conceptual Model

This paper combines research on self-regulation, social resource theory, and weak tie theory to propose a conceptual model for why some people network more than others when searching for a job. This article explores the hypothetical relationship between social networking behaviors and self-regulatory mechanisms. Specifically, the focus is on explaining the differences in the job seeker’s feedback-seeking and networking behaviors and how they vary depending on state and trait goal orientation, motives for feedback seeking, and types of ties the job seekers connect with. A conceptual model of self-regulation and social networking behaviors presents a set of testable relationships that can be explored using correlational and experimental methods. The article also proposes specific research directions for testing the model and discusses the practical implications of the relationships.
Host defense against Mycobacterium avium does not have an absolute requirement for major histocompatibility complex class I-restricted T cells.

The role of CD8 + T cells was evaluated in a mouse model of disseminated Mycobacterium avium infection. C57BL/6J and C57BL/6Jβ 2 −/− (β 2 −/− ) mice were infected intravenously, and the number of viable bacteria in each liver and spleen was determined. No significant difference between the number of bacteria in the two strains of mice was observed at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks after infection. Histopathological examination of granulomas from C57BL/6J and β 2 −/− mice did not show any difference either in the number of organisms per granuloma or in the size of the granulomas. Investigation of the cytokine profile in the spleen demonstrated that the β 2 −/− strain of mice produced a significantly lower amount of gamma interferon at 8 weeks after infection and significantly increased concentrations of tumor necrosis factor alpha compared with that from the wild-type mouse. Interleukin-12 and transforming growth factor β 1 levels did not differ between the two strains of mice at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. Although previous work had found that host response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis involves major histocompatibility complex class I-restricted T cells, our results indicate that chronic deficiency of CD8 + T cells does not lead to a different expression of the disease and that if CD8 + T cells are involved in the host response, their function can be assumed by other immune cells.
THE EFFECTS OF CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE ON COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT, ILLNESS CAUSALITY CONCEPTS, AND VULNERABILITY

This study suggests that childhood cardiac illness has a depressive impact on the attainment of conservation tasks, but does not affect illness causality conceptualization. The group of twelve ill children studied appeared to feel somewhat more vulnerable to illness in general, especially when projecting to adult health status, than did a matched group of healthy children.
Cohen elements in Banach algebras

The definition of Cohen elements in a commutative Banach algebra with a countable bounded approximate identity given by Esterle is modified slightly to be more analogous to the invertible elements in a unital Banach algebra. With the modified definition the n1-Cohen factorization results that were proved by Esterle are shown tohold in the semigroup of Cohen elements. If is the algebra of continuous complex valued functions vanishing at infinity on a σ-compact locally compact Hausdorff space X, then the Cohen elements in are identified and a natural quotient of a subsemigroup of Cohen elements is shown to be a group, isomorphic to the abstract index group of C(X∪{∞}).
Antecedents and Consequences of Physical Activity and Exercise Among Older Adults

The antecedents and consequences of four markers of physical activity and exercise are examined for the 6,780 baseline self-respondents to the Longitudinal Study on Aging. These dichotomous markers reflect having a level of physical activity greater than one's peers (45.8%), getting as much exercise as needed (58.9%), having a regular exercise routine (28.4%), and walking a mile or more at least once a week (29.9%). The major factors associated with engaging in these behaviors are having fewer lower body limitations, better perceived health, more non-kin social supports, not worrying about one's health, and having a sense of control over one's health. When added to traditional models predicting subsequent (over the next 6 to 8 years) mortality, nursing home placement, hospital resource consumption, and changes in functional status, the four markers of physical activity and exercise have numerous statistically and substantively significant associations, all of which involve better health outcomes.
Spatially-resolved measurements of critical current density of superconducting films on 2 inch substrates

An apparatus is described that makes non-invasive measurements of the critical current density at an array of 32 locations across a 2 inch diameter wafer. It operates at 77 K, and can resolve variations of a few percent. Measurements of the critical temperature of a single location on the film are also possible. >
Nearly optimal distributed configuration management using probabilistic graphical models

This work studies distributed configuration management of large wireless sensor networks, where management objectives are achieved by local cooperation of individual nodes. Specifically, we study when distributed configuration management is nearly optimal, and how to obtain a nearly-optimal configuration through decentralized adaptation. We first derive a spatial network model that is determined by internal network characteristics and management requirements. We next show that a sufficient condition for distributed configuration management to be nearly-optimal is that the spatial network model belongs to a class of coupled Markov random fields also known as random-bond ising model. Such graphs possess a cross-layer spatial Markov property. We specify the sufficient conditions for the nearly-optimality under different channels and density of nodes. We derive a nearly-optimal distributed algorithm using the probabilistic inference based on the derived network model. The algorithm is applied to spatial-reuse TDMA which configures a logical topology
The Effects of Halofuginone and Salinomycin, Alone and in Combination, on Live Performance and Skin Characteristics of Female Broilers: Influence of a High-Proline Diet Supplemented with Ascorbic Acid and Zinc

Live performance and carcass quality of female broilers were evaluated under four coccidiostat programs (CP) and two feed treatments. The CP consisted of halofuginone (H) and salinomycin (S), fed either continuously (HH and SS) or in rotational programs (HS and SH), during the starter (1 to 21 d) and grower (22 to 35 d) periods, respectively. All groups received an unmedicated withdrawal feed from 36 to 42 d. Feed treatments consisted of a control and a fortified diet high in proline and supplemented with additional ascorbic acid and zinc (50 birds per pen; 4 pens per feed; 8 pens per CP). In addition to live performance and skin puncture strength, carcass quality attributes following processing (at 43 d of age) were assessed. No CP by feed interactions were detected for any of the variables measured. The CP treatments did not differ for live performance. Birds on fortified feed were heavier at 21 d (P < .001) and had an improved feed conversion at 42 d (P < .05). Skin puncture strength was significantly reduced for the birds fed H, either in continuous (HH) or rotational programs (HS and SH). Skin sores-scratches and tears were lowest for the SS and SH groups. The HH treatment resulted in fewer grade A carcasses (P < .001). Halofuginone, when fed continuously or in the starter feed, affected carcass quality of broilers. Higher dietary proline or supplementation with ascorbic acid and zinc did not appear to alleviate the effects of halofuginone on skin quality.
The Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ): psychometric properties of a survey instrument for school-aged children.

Study objectives To present psychometric data on a comprehensive, parent-report sleep screening instrument designed for school-aged children, the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ). The CSHQ yields both a total score and eight subscale scores, reflecting key sleep domains that encompass the major medical and behavioral sleep disorders in this age group. Design Cross-sectional survey. Setting Three elementary schools in New England, a pediatric sleep disorders clinic in a children's teaching hospital. Participants Parents of 469 school-aged children, aged 4 through 10 years (community sample), and parents of 154 patients diagnosed with sleep disorders in a pediatric sleep clinic completed the CSHQ. Interventions N/A. Measurements and results The CSHQ showed adequate internal consistency for both the community sample (p=0.68) and the clinical sample (p=0.78); alpha coefficients for the various subscales of the CSHQ ranged from 0.36 (Parasomnias) to 0.70 (Bedtime Resistance) for the community sample, and from 0.56 (Parasomnias) to 0.93 (Sleep-Disordered Breathing) for the sleep clinic group. Test-retest reliability was acceptable (range 0.62 to 0.79). CSHQ individual items, as well as the subscale and total scores were able to consistently differentiate the community group from the sleep-disordered group, demonstrating validity. A cut-off total CSHQ score of 41 generated by analysis of the Receiver Operator Characteristic Curve (ROC) correctly yielded a sensitivity of 0.80 and specificity of 0.72. Conclusions The CSHQ appears to be a useful sleep screening instrument to identify both behaviorally based and medically-based sleep problems in school-aged children.
Diversity and retention in engineering

The authors describe three initiatives designed to increase the academic achievement and retention of historically underrepresented students (including females and underrepresented students of color) in engineering.
Design and Function of a Dendrimer-Based Therapeutic Nanodevice Targeted to Tumor Cells Through the Folate Receptor

Purpose. We sought to develop nanoscale drug delivery materials that would allow targeted intracellular delivery while having an imaging capability for tracking uptake of the material. A complex nanodevice was designed and synthesized that targets tumor cells through the folate receptor. Methods. The device is based on an ethylenediamine core polyamidoamine dendrimer of generation 5. Folic acid, fluorescein, and methotrexate were covalently attached to the surface to provide targeting, imaging, and intracellular drug delivery capabilities. Molecular modeling determined the optimal dendrimer surface modification for the function of the device and suggested a surface modification that improved targeting. Results. Three nanodevices were synthesized. Experimental targeting data in KB cells confirmed the modeling predictions of specific and highly selective binding. Targeted delivery improved the cytotoxic response of the cells to methotrexate 100-fold over free drug. Conclusions. These results demonstrate the ability to design and produce polymer-based nanodevices for the intracellular targeting of drugs, imaging agents, and other materials.
A Semiclassical Derivation of the QCD Coupling

The measured value of the QCD coupling alpha(sub s) at the energy M(sub Zo), the variation of alpha(sub s) as a function of energy in QCD, and classical relativistic dynamics are used to investigate virtual pairs of quarks and antiquarks in vacuum fluctuations. For virtual pairs of bottom quarks and antiquarks, the pair lifetime in the classical model agrees with the lifetime from quantum mechanics to good approximation, and the action integral in the classical model agrees as well with the action that follows from the Uncertainty Principle. This suggests that the particles might have small de Broglie wavelengths and behave with well-localized pointlike dynamics. It also permits alpha(sub s) at the mass energy twice the bottom quark mass to be expressed as a simple fraction: 3/16. This is accurate to approximately 10%. The model in this paper predicts the measured value of alpha(sub s)(M(sub Zo)) to be 0.121, which is in agreement with recent measurements within statistical uncertainties.
The Ascension of Kafkaesque Bureaucracy in Private Sector Organizations

Although Weber’s ideal typical model of bureaucracy was developed primarily in relation to the state, studies of private sector organizations typically adhere to its formal-rational conceptions with little adjustment. This is unfortunate since bureaucracy in private sector economic organizations has many elements that are poorly captured by and potentially significantly at odds with Weber’s thinking. Most notable in this regard is the pervasiveness of particularistic and often informal, emergent arrangements − arrangements well documented for many decades by workplace ethnographers. This has significant implications for the conception of modern private sector organizations and indeed offers a picture that is more Kafkaesque than Weberian. Significant support for this point is provided by an analysis of content coded organizational ethnographies. Weberian dimensions of bureaucracy − most notably coordinated and specialized organization and training − are predominant in public institutions; private sector e...
Gender Inequalities and International Military Aggression: The R ole of Feminism in Achieving Peace

International relations scholars have often looked to domestic state composition and structure to examine root causes of interstate behavior, specifically disputes. This research study adds to this growing body of literature by using a feminist perspective to analyze the relationship between state-level gender equality and international military disputes. I hypothesize that those nations with lower fertility rates and higher representations of women in parliament, both variables taken together to represent gender equality, will engage in fewer and less hostile military disputes. The findings of this study confirm my expectations; nations that ascribe to egalitarian ideals and practices typically extend this framework to their international relations as well. It is therefore suggested that future studies in peace consider the positive effects gender equality has upon domestic and international relations.