Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Teacher Induction Revisited

Four beginning teachers' experiences of induction programs in Queensland secondary schools are described. Interviews with principals and other senior teachers indicated keen and sympathetic awareness of the complexities of entry into teaching. The beginning teachers of the study complained that induction programs offered were inadequate, inappropriate, or both. These research findings are discussed in terms of the research literature and current official policy on induction in Queensland. It is argued that current induction programs are based for the most part on a deficit model of beginning teachers. Recommendations are made for further research in two main areas: critical examination of teacher induction, the term itself, its purpose and underlying theoretical assumptions; and context-specific studies of programs of support for new teachers.
Possible roles for Munc18-1 domain 3a and Syntaxin1 N-peptide and C-terminal anchor in SNARE complex formation

Munc18-1 and Syntaxin1 are essential proteins for SNARE-mediated neurotransmission. Munc18-1 participates in synaptic vesicle fusion via dual roles: as a docking/chaperone protein by binding closed Syntaxin1, and as a fusion protein that binds SNARE complexes in a Syntaxin1 N-peptide dependent manner. The two roles are associated with a closed–open Syntaxin1 conformational transition. Here, we show that Syntaxin N-peptide binding to Munc18-1 is not highly selective, suggesting that other parts of the SNARE complex are involved in binding to Munc18-1. We also find that Syntaxin1, with an N peptide and a physically anchored C terminus, binds to Munc18-1 and that this complex can participate in SNARE complex formation. We report a Munc18-1–N-peptide crystal structure that, together with other data, reveals how Munc18-1 might transit from a conformation that binds closed Syntaxin1 to one that may be compatible with binding open Syntaxin1 and SNARE complexes. Our results suggest the possibility that structural transitions occur in both Munc18-1 and Syntaxin1 during their binary interaction. We hypothesize that Munc18-1 domain 3a undergoes a conformational change that may allow coiled-coil interactions with SNARE complexes.
The Miller Assessment for Preschoolers: Analysis of Score Patterns for Children with Developmental Delays

This paper describes data trends of the Miller Assessment for Preschoolers (MAP) (Miller, 1982) in a clinical sample of children with suspected or confirmed developmental delay. A retrospective chart review was carried out for 95 subjects, 30 girls and 65 boys, aged 34–68 months. The subjects were assigned to one of six groups based on primary medical or developmental diagnosis or to a no-diagnosis group. Analysis of MAP score patterns was performed using Pearson product moment correlations. Descriptive procedures were used to examine MAP score and item performance. The findings suggest that MAP score patterns differ among some categories of medical/developmental diagnoses, and that the patterns differentiate both specific and more generalized delays.
Estimation of muscle forces in gait using a simulation of the electromyographic activity and numerical optimization

Clinical gait analysis provides great contributions to the understanding of gait patterns. However, a complete distribution of muscle forces throughout the gait cycle is a current challenge for many researchers. Two techniques are often used to estimate muscle forces: inverse dynamics with static optimization and computer muscle control that uses forward dynamics to minimize tracking. The first method often involves limitations due to changing muscle dynamics and possible signal artefacts that depend on day-to-day variation in the position of electromyographic (EMG) electrodes. Nevertheless, in clinical gait analysis, the method of inverse dynamics is a fundamental and commonly used computational procedure to calculate the force and torque reactions at various body joints. Our aim was to develop a generic musculoskeletal model that could be able to be applied in the clinical setting. The musculoskeletal model of the lower limb presents a simulation for the EMG data to address the common limitations of these techniques. This model presents a new point of view from the inverse dynamics used on clinical gait analysis, including the EMG information, and shows a similar performance to another model available in the OpenSim software. The main problem of these methods to achieve a correct muscle coordination is the lack of complete EMG data for all muscles modelled. We present a technique that simulates the EMG activity and presents a good correlation with the muscle forces throughout the gait cycle. Also, this method showed great similarities whit the real EMG data recorded from the subjects doing the same movement.
Unsuspected osteochondroma-like outgrowths in the cranial base of Hereditary Multiple Exostoses patients and modeling and treatment with a BMP antagonist in mice

Hereditary Multiple Exostoses (HME) is a rare pediatric disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the genes encoding the heparan sulfate (HS)-synthesizing enzymes EXT1 or EXT2. HME is characterized by formation of cartilaginous outgrowths—called osteochondromas- next to the growth plates of many axial and appendicular skeletal elements. Surprisingly, it is not known whether such tumors also form in endochondral elements of the craniofacial skeleton. Here, we carried out a retrospective analysis of cervical spine MRI and CT scans from 50 consecutive HME patients that included cranial skeletal images. Interestingly, nearly half of the patients displayed moderate defects or osteochondroma-like outgrowths in the cranial base and specifically in the clivus. In good correlation, osteochondromas developed in the cranial base of mutant Ext1f/f;Col2-CreER or Ext1f/f;Aggrecan-CreER mouse models of HME along the synchondrosis growth plates. Osteochondroma formation was preceded by phenotypic alteration of cells at the chondro-perichondrial boundary and was accompanied by ectopic expression of major cartilage matrix genes -collagen 2 and collagen X- within the growing ectopic masses. Because chondrogenesis requires bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling, we asked whether osteochondroma formation could be blocked by a BMP signaling antagonist. Systemic administration with LDN-193189 effectively inhibited osteochondroma growth in conditional Ext1-mutant mice. In vitro studies with mouse embryo chondrogenic cells clarified the mechanisms of LDN-193189 action that turned out to include decreases in canonical BMP signaling pSMAD1/5/8 effectors but interestingly, concurrent increases in such anti-chondrogenic mechanisms as pERK1/2 and Chordin, Fgf9 and Fgf18 expression. Our study is the first to reveal that the cranial base can be affected in patients with HME and that osteochondroma formation is amenable to therapeutic drug intervention.
Innovations in pre-service education and training for English language teachers

DT to include this sometimes very neglected group of language learners in a powerful way. Chapter 6 leads on by exploring the challenges provided by new technologies and inclusion for student teachers and teacher educators. Meiring and Norman give a very useful and detailed comparison of context and legislation in England and Wales. This is followed by a discussion, illustrated with classroom examples, on developing methodological principles for an approach where technology and inclusion are integrated into a wider pedagogy. Chapter 7 presents Margaret Crombie’s analysis of inclusive practice in the context of dyslexia and the pros and cons of using DT to support teaching and learning in a mixed-needs classroom. In Chapter 8, John Connor picks up the theme raised in Chapter 6, of an integrated and principled pedagogy, leading into a practical review of a wide variety of Web 2.0 applications. He includes many useful resource references. The final chapter is by Jeitler and Wassermann from Klagenfurt University, who both specialise in providing universal accessibility to education. This important chapter focuses on the key issues of student access to resources for reading and writing and the knotty problem of storing material. This book is distinctive in combining the issues of DT and inclusion in the context of foreign language pedagogy. It provides extensive reference to theory, policy from around Europe, examples of good practice and where to look to find further information. It emphasises how an integrated approach to new technology with pedagogy and understanding of learning needs, can benefit all learners.
How Emotional Stability and Openness to Experience Support Invention: A Study with German Independent Inventors

How does invention depend on personality? Do inventors differ from noninventors? This study investigated the personal factors influencing a sample of independent inventors in Germany (N = 69). Standardized psychological questionnaires were employed to assess the Big Five personality dimensions, willingness to take risks, self-concept, and self-efficacy. For a comparison with noninventors, scores from reference samples were taken. Hypotheses were formulated based on research into creativity and entrepreneurship and the normative DABEI Stage Model of invention. As expected, the independent inventors showed higher levels of extraversion and openness to experience. In addition, independent inventors stood out in terms of emotional stability (low neuroticism scores). Surprisingly, in this sample success as an inventor correlated negatively with openness to experience. The interpretation is along the lines that inventors may work in a focused manner and technical implementation of an innovative idea may be optimized with great persistence. Discussion centers around the generalizability of the results.
The Evolution of Respiratory Cryptosporidiosis: Evidence for Transmission by Inhalation

SUMMARY The protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium infects all major vertebrate groups and causes significant diarrhea in humans, with a spectrum of diseases ranging from asymptomatic to life-threatening. Children and immunodeficient individuals are disproportionately affected, especially in developing countries, where cryptosporidiosis contributes substantially to morbidity and mortality in preschool-age children. Despite the enormous disease burden from cryptosporidiosis, no antiprotozoal agent or vaccine exists for effective treatment or prevention. Cryptosporidiosis involving the respiratory tract has been described for avian species and mammals, including immunocompromised humans. Recent evidence indicates that respiratory cryptosporidiosis may occur commonly in immunocompetent children with cryptosporidial diarrhea and unexplained cough. Findings from animal models, human case reports, and a few epidemiological studies suggest that Cryptosporidium may be transmitted via respiratory secretions, in addition to the more recognized fecal-oral route. It is postulated that transmission of Cryptosporidium oocysts may occur by inhalation of aerosolized droplets or by contact with fomites contaminated by coughing. Delineating the role of the respiratory tract in disease transmission may provide necessary evidence to establish further guidelines for prevention of cryptosporidiosis.
Social Capital and the Myth of Minority Self-Employment: Evidence from Canada

Using data from the Ethnic Diversity Survey conducted by Statistics Canada in 2001, this paper shows that visible minorities, particularly blacks, are the least likely to be self-employed when compared to Europeans. The rate of self-employment for visible minorities is lowest in manufacturing and the primary sectors of the economy. To the extent that social capital is important for self-employment, its benefits vary by type of social capital and industry. There is also evidence that the employment benefits derived from social capital vary across ethno-racial groups, challenging the view that social capital is a source of ethnic advantage for minority groups.
Exploring Corporate Citizenship and Purchase Intention: Mediating Effects of Brand Trust and Corporate Identification

Corporate citizenship represents various organizational activities and status related to the organization's societal and stakeholder obligations. This study develops five different dimensions of corporate citizenship and examines the relationship between the five dimensions and purchase intention by including two key mediators. In the proposed model of this study, purchase intention is indirectly affected by economic, legal, ethical, general philanthropic, and strategic philanthropic citizenship via the mediation of corporate identification and brand trust. Empirical testing using a survey of 353 consumers from various industries confirms most of our hypothesized effects. Last, managerial implications for corporate leaders and limitations of our findings are discussed in depth.
An Exploration of Polygamous Marriages: A Worldview

Polygamy remains one of the key topics in various societies. It is through cultural practices, beliefs and also on the individuals’ choices that people decide to be committed to polygamy lifestyles. Polygyny remains widespread across the world. Over seventy percent of the societies known to Anthropologists permit men to marry more than one wife. There are consequences to each type of marriage that certain individuals might adapt to. Women who have entered into polygamous marriages have different experiences that can be enriching to those who practice monogamy.This paper highlights what people in polygamous marriages face on a daily basis. It argues that there are more disadvantages for women who are in polygamous marriages than there are for their counterparts in monogamous relationships. The paper further suggests that the patriarchal power structure appears to play a powerful and effective role in polygamous marriages in our societies. However, there is also a realization that many people practsing polygamy are happier. There is also an exploration of the complexities of polygamous marriages from a worldview with the hope of understanding the nature and evolution of polygamous marriages. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014. v5n27p1058
Why and how people of limited intelligence become calendrical calculators

Abstract Calendrical calculation is the rare talent of naming the days of the week for dates in the past and future. Calendrical savants are people with low measured intelligence who have this talent. This paper reviews evidence and speculation about why people become calendrical savants and how they answer date questions. Most savants are known to have intensively studied the calendar and show superior memory for calendrical information. As a result they may answer date questions either from recalling calendars or by using strategies that exploit calendrical regularities. While people of average or superior intelligence may become calendrical calculators through internalizing formulae, the arithmetical demands of the formulae make them unlikely as bases for the talents of calendrical savants. We attempt to identify the methods used by a sample of 10 savants. None rely on an internalised formula. Some use strategies based on calendrical regularities probably in conjunction with memory for a range of years. For the rest a decision between use of regularities and recall of calendars cannot be made.
Carcinogenic activities of various steroidal and nonsteroidal estrogens in the hamster kidney: relation to hormonal activity and cell proliferation.

The therapeutic use of estrogens has been associated with an increased risk of some of the most predominant, as well as less prevalent, cancers in women. The estrogen-induced renal tumor is one of the primary animal models to evaluate the carcinogenic properties of estrogens. Correlations were made with various estrogens by using parameters of estrogenicity end points such as competitive binding, progesterone receptor induction, and alterations in prolactin levels; in vitro renal proximal cell proliferation; and in vivo estrogen-induced carcinogenicity. The most potent estrogens were Moxestrol (MOX), diethylstilbestrol (DES), and 17 beta-estradiol, followed by indenestrol B, 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone, and 11 beta-methoxyestradiol with moderate estrogenic activities, whereas 11 beta-methylestradiol, 17 alpha-estradiol, indanestrol, and deoxoestrone were all relatively weaker. As expected, hydrolyzed Premarin (unconjugated estrogens) was strongly estrogenic. Of the estrogens tested, MOX was the most potent carcinogenic estrogen in the hamster kidney. Both 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone and 11 beta-methoxyestradiol induced intermediate tumor incidences with distinctly lower frequencies of renal tumor foci compared to the most potent carcinogenic estrogens. However, hamsters treated for 9.0 months with 11 beta-methylestradiol, 17 alpha-estradiol, deoxoestrone, and indanestrol exhibited no tumors. In contrast, treatment with estrone, equilin plus d-equilenin, and hydrolyzed Premarin for the same time period resulted in 100% renal tumor incidences and numerous tumor foci. Cell proliferation studies of cultured hamster kidney proximal tubule cells were carried out at varying estrogen concentrations (0.01-100 nM). Exposure to MOX resulted in consistently high renal cell proliferative response over a concentration range of 0.1-10 nM. Strongly carcinogenic estrogens such as estrone had a maximal renal cell proliferation response (2.4-fold above untreated control levels) between 0.1 and 10 nM, DES and 17 beta-estradiol responded at 1.0 nM, and 4-hydroxyestradiol responded at 10 nM. Interestingly, exposure to ethinylestradiol, a potent estrogen, at similar or higher doses as those used for DES and 17 beta-estradiol, yielded only a 10% renal tumor incidence and induced only a 1.7-fold increase in proximal tubule cell proliferation. In contrast, 17 alpha-estradiol, deoxoestrone, indanestrol, and 11 beta-methylestradiol, all weakly estrogenic and noncarcinogenic agents, had relatively little effect on tubule cell proliferation. The hydrolyzed Premarin exhibited a maximal 2.0-fold cell proliferative response at 10 nM. The present results provide clear evidence that, in the hamster kidney, the degree of carcinogenicity of a given estrogen correlates with its ability to induce proximal tubule cell proliferation in vitro. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Antennal fine morphology of the threatened beetle Osmoderma eremita (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), revealed by scanning electron microscopy

The aim of this study was to characterize the antennal morphology of Osmoderma eremita, a threatened scarab beetle inhabiting tree hollows. O. eremita males produce a sex pheromone, (R)‐(+)‐γ‐decalactone, responsible mainly for the attraction of females but also other males. Gross and fine morphology of microstructures including sensilla, microsculpture and pores were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The antenna of O. eremita showed the typical lamellicorn shape of scarab beetles, with a basal scape, a pedicel, a funicle composed of five antennomeres and a club composed of three lamellae. Six different subtypes of sensilla chaetica (Ch.1 − 6), Böhm sensilla (Bo), one subtype of sensilla basiconica (Ba.1), two subtypes of sensilla coeloconica (Co.1 − 2), two subtypes of sensilla placodea (Pl.1 − 2), pores and peculiar folds were described. The two sexes did not show any significant differences in the occurrence and number of the sensilla placodea, known to be responsible for the pheromone reception. Instead, some sexual differences were found on the occurrence and topology of three different microstructures: (1) one subtype of sensillum chaeticum (Ch.2) occurring on the pedicel only in males; (2) a characteristic pore occurring on the funicle only in males; (3) a peculiar fold occurring on different antennomeres of the funicle in the two sexes, on the fourth in males and on the fifth in females. A comparison between sensilla of O. eremita and those of other Scarabaeoidea is provided. Microsc. Res. Tech. 79:178–191, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Aging, Obsolescence, and Organizational Innovation

This paper investigates the relationship between organizational aging and innovation processes to illuminate the dynamics of high-technology industries, as well to resolve debates in organizational theory about the effects of aging on organizational functioning. We test hypotheses based on two seemingly contradictory consequences of aging for organizational innovation: that aging is associated with increases in firms' rates of innovation and that the difficulties of keeping pace with incessant external developments causes firms' innovative outputs to become obsolete relative to the most current environmental demands. These seemingly contradictory outcomes are intimately related and reflect inherent tradeoffs in organizational learning and innovation processes. Multiple longitudinal analyses of the relationship between firm age and patenting behavior in the semiconductor and biotechnology industries lend support to these arguments.
The Issue of Grammaticalization in Early German Second Language

This paper treats the development of the expression of grammatical categories in German in the early second language acquisition of Turkish and German children attending a bilingual day-care center in a multilingual speech community in Berlin. We examine case and gender marking on noun phrases and pronouns and tense/aspect and agreement marking on verb phrases. These are examined in light of the following general issues: (a) Do grammatical markers develop from independent lexical items in child language as well as in diachronic development? (b) Do the markers initially mark pragmatic categories before being grammaticalized as syntactic functors? (c) Do grammaticalizations of the first language influence the development of the second language? We find no evidence that pragmatic precede syntactic categories; however, some evidence indicates that grammatical markers develop first as independent words—for example, pronominal use preceding definite article use of der, die, das, and main verb use preceding auxiliary use of sein (‘be’) and haben (‘have’). Some evidence that the categories of the first language (Turkish) play a role in the development of German second language is found in compound verb constructions.
A Dig into the Past Mitochondrial Diversity of Corsican Goats Reveals the Influence of Secular Herding Practices

The goat (Capra hircus) is one of the earliest domesticated species ca. 10,500 years ago in the Middle-East where its wild ancestor, the bezoar (Capra aegagrus), still occurs. During the Neolithic dispersal, the domestic goat was then introduced in Europe, including the main Mediterranean islands. Islands are interesting models as they maintain traces of ancient colonization, historical exchanges or of peculiar systems of husbandry. Here, we compare the mitochondrial genetic diversity of both medieval and extant goats in the Island of Corsica that presents an original and ancient model of breeding with free-ranging animals. We amplified a fragment of the Control Region for 21 medieval and 28 current goats. Most of them belonged to the A haplogroup, the most worldwide spread and frequent today, but the C haplogroup is also detected at low frequency in the current population. Present Corsican goats appeared more similar to medieval goats than to other European goat populations. Moreover, 16 out of the 26 haplotypes observed were endemic to Corsica and the inferred demographic history suggests that the population has remained constant since the Middle Ages. Implications of these results on management and conservation of endangered Corsican goats currently decimated by a disease are addressed.