Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Fungal Gene Expression on Demand: an Inducible, Tunable, and Metabolism-Independent Expression System for Aspergillus niger

ABSTRACT Filamentous fungi are the cause of serious human and plant diseases but are also exploited in biotechnology as production platforms. Comparative genomics has documented their genetic diversity, and functional genomics and systems biology approaches are under way to understand the functions and interaction of fungal genes and proteins. In these approaches, gene functions are usually inferred from deletion or overexpression mutants. However, studies at these extreme points give only limited information. Moreover, many overexpression studies use metabolism-dependent promoters, often causing pleiotropic effects and thus limitations in their significance. We therefore established and systematically evaluated a tunable expression system for Aspergillus niger that is independent of carbon and nitrogen metabolism and silent under noninduced conditions. The system consists of two expression modules jointly targeted to a defined genomic locus. One module ensures constitutive expression of the tetracycline-dependent transactivator rtTA2S-M2, and one module harbors the rtTA2S-M2-dependent promoter that controls expression of the gene of interest (the Tet-on system). We show here that the system is tight, responds within minutes after inducer addition, and allows fine-tuning based on the inducer concentration or gene copy number up to expression levels higher than the expression levels of the gpdA promoter. We also validate the Tet-on system for the generation of conditional overexpression mutants and demonstrate its power when combined with a gene deletion approach. Finally, we show that the system is especially suitable when the functions of essential genes must be examined.
A cluster analysis of climate change mitigation behaviours among SMTEs

Research on tourism and climate change has emphasised the contribution that the sector should make to the effort to reduce and stabilise greenhouse gas emissions. However, the tourism sector response on the supply side has been disappointing and highly variable between and within its sub-sectors. This paper addresses the knowledge gap on the willingness and capacity for tourism businesses to mitigate. Innovation is used as the conceptual framework. At the firm level, mitigation requires innovation, yet businesses innovate at different rates and hence their ability to contribute towards emission reductions varies. A cluster analysis is presented of over 400 accommodation providers from south-west England, a major UK destination region. Three distinctive clusters of small- and medium-sized tourism enterprises are identified based on how they innovated to mitigate climate change. The smallest (12%) had introduced a range of process and managerial innovations and was most forward thinking and active. A second cluster (23%) had introduced several process innovations but its approach to managerial innovations was both partial and confused. The largest cluster (65%) had mainly enacted straightforward process innovations but failed to introduce managerial innovations to measure, monitor and act on their environmental performance. Taken together, these data suggest that the contribution from accommodation providers to emissions reductions targets has been at best modest. Moving forward, greater analytical precision is needed if (this part of) the tourism sector is to be widely mobilised towards tackling climate change. Specifically, policy interventions have to be more effectively targeted at business needs and based on a more differentiated view of planned and enacted behaviour changes. One-size-fits-all prescriptions are inappropriate, arguably even counterproductive for encouraging the greatest level of mitigation activity across the widest range of tourism businesses.
Evolution of the Public–Private Sector Wage Differential during Transition in Estonia

This article estimates the public–private sector wage differential in Estonia over the transition period. Quantile regression is used with a dataset from Estonian Labour Force Surveys from 1989 to 2004 for this purpose. The results of the analysis indicate that the public–private sector wage differential was negative during early transition but has decreased subsequently. It also shows that employees with low potential wages tend to gain more or lose less from working in the public sector than workers with high potential wages. The public–private sector wage differential is negatively related to the number of public employees and tends to be counter-cyclical. Political cycles have no effect on the public–private sector wage differential in Estonia.
Valuation Errors Caused by Conservative Accounting in Residual Income and Abnormal Earnings Growth Valuation Models

The impact of conservative accounting in residual income valuation (RIV) and abnormal earnings growth (AEG) valuation modeling is investigated in this paper. Unconstrained and two types of constrained model specifications are evaluated regarding their ability to withstand biases in book values and earnings due to accounting conservatism. Given that the “clean surplus relation” holds and that the precision of forecasted accounting numbers is unaffected by the type of accounting principles, the unconstrained valuation models are – not surprisingly – found to be immune to conservatism. This does not hold for the constrained models, even though conservatism can be accommodated in these if the time-series specification of the conservative bias fulfils certain conditions. In a comparison between terminal value constrained models, the AEG model is found to be superior to the RIV model if the growth of the conservative bias in the terminal period is not too extreme. Comparing the information dynamics constrained models being proposed in Ohlson (1995) and Ohlson & Juettner-Nauroth (2005), the AEG model is potentially more accurate than the RIV model. However, in a company steady state setting with constant growth, there is no comparative advantage for the AEG model. Also, using the same set of forecasted accounting numbers in the information dynamics constrained RIV model as in the corresponding AEG model, the two models cannot be ranked.
Evaluation of carbazole degradation by Pseudomonas rhodesiae strain KK1 isolated from soil contaminated with coal tar

In this study, strain KK1 isolated from coal tar‐contaminated soil was found to be able to mineralize carbazole as a sole source of carbon by radiorespirometric analysis. KK1 cells pregrown on phenanthrene were able to mineralize carbazole much more rapidly than cells pregrown on naphthalene, suggesting a possible close linkage between the pathways for carbazole and phenanthrene catabolism. Also, Rieske‐type iron sulfur center sequence of dioxygenase from KK1 was analyzed to evaluate carbazole catabolism by KK1. A gene cloned out from KK1 using a universal dioxygenase primer set was found a dioxygenase for initial catabolism of carbazole based on deduced amino acid sequences. Northern hybridization using the putative carbazole dixoygenase gene fragment as a probe provided the information that catabolism of carbazole might be greatly activated in phenanthrene‐grown cells. Analysis of PLFAs extracted from KK1 cells exposed to carbazole revealed that lipids 10:0 3OH, 17:0 cyclo, and 18:0 were representatives produced or significantly increased in response to carbazole. Strain KK1 was identified as Pseudomonas species with 94% confidence when BIOLOG system was applied, as Pseudomonas sp. with over 90% confidence by total cellular compositions of fatty acid, and as Pseudomonas rhodesiae with 99% confidence by 16S rRNA sequence. Accordingly, strain KK1 was identified as Pseudomonas rhodesiae based on combination of the data, and designated Pseudomonas rhodesiae KK1. The phylogenetic tree based on 16S rRNA suggested that strain KK1 was far away in the phylogenetic distance from the strains that can degrade carbazole.
Antitoxic immunity in experimental canine cholera.

A syndrome that is virtually identical to human cholera in clinical, immunological, biochemical, and pathophysiological aspects has been produced in dogs by orogastric challenge with broth cultures of Vibrio cholerae [I]. A similar illness of shorter duration has been produced with sterile, cell-free filtrates of V. cholerae broth cultures [2]. Isolated loops of canine small bowel also respond to intraluminal challenge with sterile filtrates of broth culture of V. cholerae by producing large volumes of isotonic fluid [3]. The canine data suggest that the major pathophysiological derangements in cholera are caused by a toxin1 elaborated by the vibrio and confirm earlier studies in the rabbit model in this regard [5-8].
State of the art laryngeal imaging: research and clinical implications

Purpose of reviewThis study provides a review of the latest advances in videostroboscopy, videokymography and high-speed videoendoscopy, and outlines the development of new laryngeal imaging modalities based on optical coherence tomography, laser-depth kymography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), published in the past 2 years. Recent findingsVideostroboscopy and videokymography: Image quality has improved and several image processing and measurement techniques have been published.High-speed videoendoscopy: Significant progress has been made through increased sensitivity and frame rates of the cameras, and the development of facilitative playbacks, phonovibrography and several image segmentation and measurement methods. Clinical evidence was presented through applications in phonosurgery, comparisons with videostroboscopy, normative data, and better understanding of voice production.Optical coherence tomography: Latest developments allow the capture of dynamic high-resolution cross-sectional images of the vibrating vocal fold mucosa during phonation.Depth kymography: New laser technique allowing recording of the vertical movements of the vocal folds during phonation in calibrated spatial values.Laryngeal magnetic resonance: New methods allow high-resolution imaging of laryngeal tissue microstructure, or measuring of dynamic laryngeal structures during phonation. SummaryThe endoscopic laryngeal imaging techniques have made significant advances increasing their clinical value, whereas techniques providing new types of potentially clinically relevant information have emerged.
Backward Linkages from Construction

One argument for increasing construction investment is the number of jobs and related multipliers associated with property investment. However, economic activity does not begin and end with actual construction: there are important backward linkages into the input markets for construction. If these markets can be shown to be primarily indigenous or at least with the potential to be locally-based, then there are wider local and regional benefits that may accrue from construction programmes. This paper is based on recent Scottish research which traced back the linkages from construction to specific building supplies markets in materials, semi-finished and finished products. Strong economy-wide multiplier effects are identified for construction output, for those on low incomes and in terms of job creation. Scottish construction is found to be primarily self-contained with consequent opportunities to maxi-mise the local economic impact of construction work. The research suggests that policies need to target specific supply industries, meet the skills shortage challenge and confront the problems associated with construction tendering.
HEDONICS AND DEMAND ANALYSIS: THE IMPLICIT DEMAND FOR PLAYER ATTRIBUTES

Although a significant econometric literature is concerned with the implicit demand for the attributes of differentiated goods in hedonic pricing models, the literature has developed independently of modern econometric demand analysis. This study estimates factor demand systems using data on player characteristics employed by Major League Baseball teams and associated estimated hedonic prices. It is found that the implicit demand for player attributes by teams is largely consistent with the predictions of the neoclassical theory of the firm, in contrast to the results often obtained by empirical demand studies using conventional data sets. Copyright 1998 by Oxford University Press.
Computer-assisted transurethral laser resection of the prostate (CALRP): theoretical and experimental motion plan

Computer-Assisted transurethral laser resection of the prostate (CALRP) is a treatment modality that was designed and developed based on an integrated system of computer, robotics and laser technology in association with a minimally invasive surgery known as laser transurethral resection of the prostate (LRP). CALRP possesses complementary capabilities that could remedy many of the problems faced by surgeons in conventional LRP by delivering a treatment with repeatability and reliability. The work deals primarily in determining the feasibility study of the computer-assisted lasing motion plan (planned motion sequence controlled by a program) for LRP. A theoretical motion plan that analyzes numerically the lasing motion of the fiber was designed by calculating the profile removal rate and in vitro experiments conducted on human cadaveric prostate to verify and validate the designed motion plan. The novel motion plan, which was executed experimentally using the LaserTrode lightguide, accomplished the objective of resecting the enlarged prostate with the aid of computer and robotics technology.
Anti‐CD3‐based bispecific antibody designed for therapy of human B‐cell malignancy can induce T‐cell activation by antigen‐dependent and antigen‐independent mechanisms

Anti‐CD3 × anti‐B‐cell antigen bispecific monoclonal antibodies (bsAbs) can redirect T‐cell‐mediated lysis toward malignant B cells. Clinical trials with CD3‐based bsAbs have shown toxicity in patients which is likely related to non‐specific T‐cell activation and targeting. Our current studies were designed to explore the mechanisms responsible for the observed in vivo toxicity by evaluating the immunologic effects of 2 different bsAb preparations in vitro. 1D10 was used as the tumor specific arm of the bsAbs. This antibody reacts with a variant of HLA‐DR found on a majority of pre‐B‐ and B‐cell malignancies, and normal B cells in some individuals. Anti‐CD3 served as the T‐cell specific arm. A 1D10 × anti‐CD3 bispecific IgG (bsIgG) produced using the hybrid‐hybridoma method was compared to a 1D10 × anti‐CD3 bispecific F(ab′)2 [bsF(ab′)2] produced using the leucine zipper technique. In cytotoxicity assays, both bsIgG and bsF(ab′)2 induced lysis by pre‐activated T cells of 1D10 (+) malignant B cells. bsIgG at high concentrations also induced lysis of 1D10 (−) tumor cells, while bsF(ab′)2 did not. Proliferation of T cells induced by bsIgG and bsF(ab′)2 was also evaluated. Both forms of bsAbs induced T‐cell proliferation in the presence of antigen (+) Raji cells, while only bsIgG did so in the presence of antigen (−) malignant B cells. bsF(ab′)2 induced T‐cell activation in the absence of any tumor cells when testing was performed on samples where the 1D10 target antigen was present on normal peripheral blood B cells. We conclude that non‐specific T‐cell activation from bsAbs can occur in an antigen‐independent manner due to the Fc/Fc receptor (FcR) interaction, or in an antigen‐dependent manner when antigen is expressed on normal or tumor cells. Both mechanisms may have been responsible for the toxicity observed in prior clinical studies. Int. J. Cancer77:251–256, 1998. © 1998 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Econometric Evaluation of the Exchange Rate in Models of the UK Economy

This paper evaluates the exchange rate mechanisms in current large-scale models of the U.K. economy and finds that each has some shortcomings. A new, econometrically preferable, specification is developed. Previous empirical failures of exchange rate models relate to an inadequate treatment of expectations and neglect of the simultaneity between exchange rates and interest rates: the instrumental variable methods employed here remedy these deficiencies. The preferred equation, a forward-looking modified uncovered interest rate parity relation, outperforms a random walk. The sensitivity of overall model properties is examined by replacing the existing equations with the new equation and repeating standard simulation experiments. Coauthors are S. K. Tanna, D. S. Turner, K. F. Wallis, and J. D. Whitley. Copyright 1990 by Royal Economic Society.
A novel approach to negative feedback in RX front-ends

A new approach to negative feedback is proposed and applied to active mixer cells based on Gilbert multiplier. The feedback can be exploited in several ways, and different configurations are derived. A dual-loop topology provides a solution for inductor-less broad-band receiver stages. The nature of the dual loop ensures controlled gain and input matching, and a first-order linearity analysis is presented. A single-loop narrow-band topology is derived from more traditional implementations; main characteristics are examined thoroughly, with specific respect to input matching, noise and stability issues
Modality independence of word comprehension

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to examine the functional anatomy of word comprehension in the auditory and visual modalities of presentation. We asked our subjects to determine if word pairs were semantically associated (e.g., table, chair) and compared this to a reference task where they were asked to judge whether word pairs rhymed (e.g., bank, tank). This comparison showed task‐specific and modality‐independent activation for semantic processing in the heteromodal cortices of the left inferior frontal gyrus (BA 46, 47) and left middle temporal gyrus (BA 21). There were also modality‐specific activations in the fusiform gyrus (BA 37) for written words and in the superior temporal gyrus (BA 22) for spoken words. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that word form recognition (lexical encoding) occurs in unimodal cortices and that heteromodal brain regions in the anterior as well as posterior components of the language network subserve word comprehension (semantic decoding). Hum. Brain Mapping 16:251–261, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Communicating emotions: a model for natural emotions in HRI

Based on different psychological models of emotion, we argue that an intrapersonal account of emotion is not sufficient. Rather, we need interpersonal accounts of emotion that go beyond the assumption that a communicative agent simply displays her internal affective state and takes situational aspects into account. In this paper a computational model for the application of natural emotions in HRI is presented. Having a robot which is able to mimic emotional expressions and also use emotions in a strategic manner will enhance its emotional and social competence.
A non-parametric assessment of weak-form efficiency in the UAE financial markets

This paper tests for market efficiency in the represented sectors of the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and the Abu Dhabi Securities Market (ADSM). Using daily sectoral indexes between 2000 and 2005, variance ratio tests reject the random walk hypothesis in all sectors of the UAE financial markets except in the banking sector of the DFM. Returns in the two financial markets are negatively serially correlated, thus suggesting the presence of a Bull market. Runs tests find insurance in the ADSM to be the only weak-form efficient sector.
Characterization of the Solubilized GABA and Benzodiazepine Receptors from Various Regions of Bovine Brain

Abstract: GABA and benzodiazepine receptors were solubilized from bovine cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus and then partially purified by gel filtration and characterized. The apparent molecular weights of all these receptors were determined to be 600,000–650,000 by gel filtration, the sedimentation coefficients being 11.0–11.3 S by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. [3H]Muscimol was bound to two classes of sites in fractions from all three regions, and [3H]flunitrazepam bound to one class of sites. A comparison of the ratios of Bmax for fiunitrazepam binding to Bmax for muscimol binding revealed that the fractions from the hippocampus exhibited a much higher ratio of benzodiazepine binding sites than were detected in fractions from the cortex and cerebellum. GABA agonist and antagonist inhibited [3H]muscimol binding to the fractions from these three regions, at similar concentrations. Benzodiazepine agonists and antagonists also inhibited [3H]flunitrazepam binding in these three fractions, with similar potency. CL 218,872, however, inhibited [3H]flunitrazepam binding in the cerebellar fraction with the lowest IC50 value and that in the hippocampal fraction with the highest IC50 value. Hill coefficients for CL 218,872 inhibition were 0.98, 0.64, and 0.58 for cerebellum, cortex, and hippocampus, respectively.
New technologies for chronic disease management and control: a systematic review

We conducted a systematic review of the clinical effectiveness of interventions using information and communication technologies (ICTs) for managing and controlling chronic diseases. Electronic databases were searched for randomized clinical trials that assessed the effectiveness of ICTs (except for those that included only telephone communication) and measured some clinical indicator. Information was reviewed and assessed independently by two researchers. Of the 950 clinical trials identified, 56 studies were identified for potential inclusion. Of those, 24 were finally included: 5 studies in asthma, 3 in hypertension, 1 in home telecare, 7 in diabetes, 6 in heart failure and 2 in prevention heart disease. Overall, ICT applications did not show an improvement in clinical outcomes, although no adverse effects were identified. However, ICTs used in the detection and follow up of cardiovascular diseases provided better clinical outcomes, mortality reduction and lower health services utilization. Systems used for improving education and social support were also shown to be effective. At present the evidence about the clinical benefits of ICTs for managing chronic disease is limited.
Technological Options for Power Generation

The demand for electricity is expected to double from 1990 to 2020. This will require 4000 GW of new capacity to be constructed worldwide, both as additions and replacements. Technical progress has made new conventional power plants more efficient and environment friendly than existing ones, and they can be built quicker and cheaper. Fossil fuels already form the basis for two thirds of all electricity and their importance will continue to grow, both as gasfired combined cycle and as coal-fired steam cycle. The technical choice depends on a wide array of considerations, including financial engineering. In liberalised electricity markets with global sourcing the emphasis is on minimum costs and cash-flow. Independent project developers currently fund 30% of all new generating capacity investments and the share is growing. The expanding role of fossil fuels runs counter to policies to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. To reverse the trend would require strong support for renewables and acceptance of nuclear power.