Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Intercultural service encounters : an integrated framework for the banking industry of Cyprus

This doctoral investigation considers the exploration of two theoretical concepts, namely Trust and Emotional Intelligence (EI) within Intercultural Service Encounters (ICSEs), taking into consideration customers΄ and employees΄ perception. The conducted systematic and narrative literature review on ICSEs provided the foundations for the development of an initial conceptual framework on affective trust during ICSEs. The researcher as a symbolic interactionist adopts a case study approach to explore the role of EI on the development of affective trust during ICSEs in the banking industry of Cyprus. Cyprus used to have an extremely sizeable financial and banking industry but the financial crisis has influenced adversely customers΄ trust towards the employees and the banking institutions. In order to gain a deeper understanding on ICSEs in Cyprus, the researcher adopts the critical incident technique (CIT) and conducts semi-structured interviews with frontline service employees (FSEs) and foreign customers within the banking industry. The collected data were analyzed via the template technique with the assistance of qualitative data analysis software NVivo 10. The research findings suggest that affective trust is very important for the financial services that aim to develop trust during ICSEs. The empirically validated conceptual framework reflects an in-depth exploration of the negative emotions that emerge during ICSEs and innovatively enables a holistic understanding on the role of EI in the development of affective trust in the banking industry of Cyprus. As a practical contribution, the researcher delineates a training agenda to local retail banking institutions, which includes strategies and specific emotion management tactics that directly address the development of affective trust during ICSEs.
Application of polymerase chain reaction to fingerprinting Aspergillus fumigatus by random amplification of polymorphic DNA

A new method for fingerprinting Aspergillus fumigatus by random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) by using single primers with arbitrary sequences is described. Five primers were examined with 19 isolates from six patients with aspergilloma as well as with A. fumigatus NCPF 2109. Two of the primers (GCT GGT GG and GCG CAC GG, 5' to 3') gave adequate discrimination between isolates, generating five and six types, respectively. Combination of the results obtained with each of these two primers generated 12 types. This compares very favorably with immunoblot fingerprinting and XbaI-generated restriction fragment length polymorphisms on the same isolates. Typeability and reproducibility were good with RAPD, and RAPD was less labor-intensive than immunoblot fingerprinting. RAPD typing results suggested that aspergillomas sometimes contain isolates of more than one type.
Perturbation of the tight junction permeability barrier by occludin loop peptides activates β‐catenin/TCF/LEF‐mediated transcription

Here we show that interference with the integrity of the transepithelial permeability barrier of mouse mammary epithelial cells by treatment with synthetic peptides, homologous to the second extracellular domain of occludin, decreased the amount of occludin protein present at tight junctions and led to the formation of multilayered, unpolarized cell clusters. In addition, transcription of the adherens junction protein β‐catenin was induced. Following accumulation of soluble β‐catenin protein, transcription by β‐catenin/TCF/LEF was increased, as revealed by transcriptional assays following transient transfection of the reporter construct. Furthermore, treatment with occludin‐II peptides up‐regulated RNA levels of the known β‐catenin/TCF/LEF downstream target gene c‐myc. The data presented imply a functional cross‐talk between tight and adherens junctions that possibly contributes to the stepwise transformation during oncogenesis.
Cinemagraph Image Study for the Online Food Marketing

The purpose of this study is to compare and analyze the product image produced by the cinemagraph image and the product image produced by the general image in the electronic trade. The cinemagraph refers to the image with a special characteristic that provides the motion clue by playing the part of the picture endlessly in the form of a video. For this study, we explored how the perceived monetary value, brand attitude, and perceived taste would influence on the purchase intention, and it was analyzed that all of the three factors significantly influenced on the purchase intention. However, it was investigated that the purchase intention of the group watching the image by the cinemagraph was significantly influenced by the perceived monetary value and the perceived taste, and the purchase intention of the other group watching the general image was significantly influenced by the brand attitude and the perceived taste; therefore, it was verified that there was a difference between the group watching the cinemagraph and the group watching the general image. In this result, it could be interpreted that when the people watching the cinemagraph purchase a product in the shopping mall, the price becomes the important requirement, and when the people watching the general image purchase a product in the shopping mall, the brand becomes the important requirement; therefore, these results could provide great implications to the food marketers.
Innovative Behavior: Relations with Developmental Culture, Psychological Empowerment, Distributive Justice and Organizational Learning Capacity

Competitive advantage has a significant role in organizations’ survival and the key path to achieve that advantage passes through innovation. Organizations need employees who do not just create new ideas but also implement them. These innovative behaviors may provide great contributions to both organizational performance and success. There are certain factors which motivate employees to exhibit such behaviors. Concordantly, the present study aims to discover how innovative behaviors of employees are related with developmental culture and psychological empowerment as well as distributive justice and organizational learning. The study sample included 276 participants from the aviation sector. The study data were collected through the survey method and data analysis was performed via SPPS and AMOS programs. The results showed that developmental culture and psychological empowerment had positive relationships with innovative behavior, whereas distributive justice and organizational learning capacity positively affected developmental culture.
The UVA/PADOVA Type 1 Diabetes Simulator

Objective: Recent studies have provided new insights into nonlinearities of insulin action in the hypoglycemic range and into glucagon kinetics as it relates to response to hypoglycemia. Based on these data, we developed a new version of the UVA/PADOVA Type 1 Diabetes Simulator, which was submitted to FDA in 2013 (S2013). Methods: The model of glucose kinetics in hypoglycemia has been improved, implementing the notion that insulin-dependent utilization increases nonlinearly when glucose decreases below a certain threshold. In addition, glucagon kinetics and secretion and action models have been incorporated into the simulator: glucagon kinetics is a single compartment; glucagon secretion is controlled by plasma insulin, plasma glucose below a certain threshold, and glucose rate of change; and plasma glucagon stimulates with some delay endogenous glucose production. A refined statistical strategy for virtual patient generation has been adopted as well. Finally, new rules for determining insulin to carbs ratio (CR) and correction factor (CF) of the virtual patients have been implemented to better comply with clinical definitions. Results: S2013 shows a better performance in describing hypoglycemic events. In addition, the new virtual subjects span well the real type 1 diabetes mellitus population as demonstrated by good agreement between real and simulated distribution of patient-specific parameters, such as CR and CF. Conclusions: S2013 provides a more reliable framework for in silico trials, for testing glucose sensors and insulin augmented pump prediction methods, and for closed-loop single/dual hormone controller design, testing, and validation.
Mapping the Twilight Zone - What We Are Missing between Clouds and Aerosols

Scientific understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions can profit from an analysis of the transition regions between pure aerosol and pure clouds as detected in satellite data. This study identifies and evaluates pixels in this region by analysing the residual areas of aerosol and cloud products from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Radiometer (MODIS) satellite sensor. These pixels are expected to represent the “twilight zone” or transition zone between aerosols and clouds. In the analysis period (February and August, 2007–2011), about 20% of all pixels are discarded by both MODIS aerosol and cloud retrievals (“Lost Pixels”). The reflective properties and spatial distribution of Lost Pixels are predominantly in between pure aerosol and cloud. The high amount of discarded pixels underlines the relevance of analyzing the transition zone as a relevant part of the Earth’s radiation budget and the importance of considering them in research on aerosol-cloud interactions.
Propagation of Light in a Disordered Waveguide System: Average Amplitude

The coupled mode equation describing the propagation of light in a disordered waveguide system composed of randomly different cores in size is analytically solved by the perturbation method and the average amplitude of light is derived. In the summation of a perturbation series only successive scatterings from different cores are taken into account. The result obtained shows that the average amplitude behaves as if in an ordered waveguide system composed of identical cores at short distance and decreases exponentially with increasing distance at large distance. The result is compared with the result obtained by the coherent potential approximation and the both results are in good agreement with each other. The results are also compared with the results obtained by numerically solving the coupled mode equation.
Differential Contributions of Mammalian Rad54 Paralogs to Recombination, DNA Damage Repair, and Meiosis

ABSTRACT Homologous recombination is a versatile DNA damage repair pathway requiring Rad51 and Rad54. Here we show that a mammalian Rad54 paralog, Rad54B, displays physical and functional interactions with Rad51 and DNA that are similar to those of Rad54. While ablation of Rad54 in mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells leads to a mild reduction in homologous recombination efficiency, the absence of Rad54B has little effect. However, the absence of both Rad54 and Rad54B dramatically reduces homologous recombination efficiency. Furthermore, we show that Rad54B protects ES cells from ionizing radiation and the interstrand DNA cross-linking agent mitomycin C. Interestingly, at the ES cell level the paralogs do not display an additive or synergic interaction with respect to mitomycin C sensitivity, yet animals lacking both Rad54 and Rad54B are dramatically sensitized to mitomycin C compared to either single mutant. This suggests that the paralogs possibly function in a tissue-specific manner. Finally, we show that Rad54, but not Rad54B, is needed for a normal distribution of Rad51 on meiotic chromosomes. Thus, even though the paralogs have similar biochemical properties, genetic analysis in mice uncovered their nonoverlapping roles.
Mitochondrial Metabolism in Developing Embryos of Brassica napus*♦

The metabolism of developing plant seeds is directed toward transforming primary assimilatory products (sugars and amino acids) into seed storage compounds. To understand the role of mitochondria in this metabolism, metabolic fluxes were determined in developing embryos of Brassica napus. After labeling with [1,2-13C2]glucose + [U-13C6]glucose, [U-13C3]alanine, [U-13C5]glutamine, [15N]alanine, (amino)-[15N]glutamine, or (amide)-[15N]glutamine, the resulting labeling patterns in protein amino acids and in fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fluxes through mitochondrial metabolism were quantified using a steady state flux model. Labeling information from experiments using different labeled substrates was essential for model validation and reliable flux estimation. The resulting flux map shows that mitochondrial metabolism in these developing seeds is very different from that in either heterotrophic or autotrophic plant tissues or in most other organisms: (i) flux around the tricarboxylic acid cycle is absent and the small fluxes through oxidative reactions in the mitochondrion can generate (via oxidative phosphorylation) at most 22% of the ATP needed for biosynthesis; (ii) isocitrate dehydrogenase is reversible in vivo; (iii) about 40% of mitochondrial pyruvate is produced by malic enzyme rather than being imported from the cytosol; (iv) mitochondrial flux is largely devoted to providing precursors for cytosolic fatty acid elongation; and (v) the uptake of amino acids rather than anaplerosis via PEP carboxylase determines carbon flow into storage proteins.
Diagnostic and therapeutic implications of relationships between fasting, 2-hour postchallenge plasma glucose and hemoglobin a1c values.

BACKGROUND Increased fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and 2-hour postchallenge plasma glucose (PCPG) levels with normal hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels are recognized as risk factors for cardiovascular disease. We undertook this study to determine the relationships between FPG and 2-hour PCPG levels over the normal HbA1c range and to assess the need to control FPG and 2-hour PCPG levels to achieve HbA1c targets recommended by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and American College of Endocrinology (ACE). METHODS The data of all healthy individuals with HbA1c values less than 7.0% (N = 457) who underwent oral glucose tolerance tests between 1986 and 2002 for either screening as potential research volunteers (93%) or diagnostic purposes (7%) were analyzed. RESULTS Of 404 individuals with normal HbA1c levels (<6.0%), 60% had normal glucose tolerance, 33% had impaired glucose tolerance, 1% had isolated impaired FPG, and 6% had type 2 diabetes mellitus. Of 161 individuals without normal glucose tolerance, 80% had normal FPG levels. Both FPG and 2-hour PCPG levels increased as HbA1c increased and were significantly correlated (r = 0.63, P<.001), but the 2-hour PCPG level increased at a rate 4 times greater than FPG and accounted for a greater proportion of HbA1c. People who met the IDF and ACE HbA1c targets (<6.5%) had significantly lower 2-hour PCPG levels than those who met the ADA target (<7.0%) (P =.03), whereas FPG levels were similar. CONCLUSIONS Most individuals with HbA1c values between 6.0% and 7.0% have normal FPG levels but abnormal 2-hour PCPG levels, suggesting that an upper limit of normal for FPG at 110 mg/dL (6.11 mmol/L) is too high and that attempts to lower HbA1c in these individuals will require treatment preferentially directed at lowering postprandial glucose levels.
Work–life balance policies : the use of flexitime within a South African organisation

The general aim of this study was to understand employee perceptions regarding the implementation of flexitime as a WLB policy within a South African organisation. A non-probability purposive, voluntary sample of 15 participants was taken from the offices of an international auditing and consulting organisation located in Johannesburg, where the use of flexitime was offered to employees. Qualitative research was conducted in the form of semi-structured in-depth interviews, which were later transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis. Seven themes were extracted from the data: variations in the use of flexitime, factors influencing the use of flexitime, challenges relating to the use of flexitime, perceptions regarding the use of flexitime, required aspects for the effective use of flexitime, consequences relating to the use of flexitime, and the benefits resulting from the use of flexitime. It was apparent that participants were aware of the significant benefits of flexitime, both for themselves (i.e. experienced work-life balance and psychological benefits) and for the organisation (i.e. productivity and employee loyalty, commitment and motivation). Regardless of these benefits, challenges and consequences of use were experienced both on the individual and organisational level, and were described by participants in detail. Prerequisites for the effective use of flexitime were also described by research participants, who gave helpful insight into the requirements necessary for successful implementation of flexitime (e.g. effective communication; professional discipline; supportive relationships; control and measurement; and informed awareness and understanding). Negative perceptions surrounding the use of flexitime (which in some cases restricted employees’ use) were also identified as an additional challenge when implementing flexitime. Based on these findings, recommendations were made for future research and for the organisation regarding the implementation of flexitime.
Keratinocytes contribute intrinsically to psoriasis upon loss of Tnip1 function

Significance Psoriasis is a complex inflammatory disease with clear genetic contribution that affects roughly 2% of the population in Europe and North America. Inflammation of the skin, and in many cases the joints, leads to severe clinical symptoms, including disfiguration and disability. Immune cells and their inflammatory effector functions have been identified as critical factors for disease development; however, how genetic susceptibility contributes to disease remains largely unclear. Here we developed mouse models based on the gene TNIP1, whose loss-of-function in humans is linked to psoriasis. Based on these models, we provide evidence that nonimmune cells, specifically skin-resident keratinocytes, contribute causally to disease. This work shifts attention to keratinocytes as causal contributors and therapeutic targets in psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a clear genetic contribution, characterized by keratinocyte proliferation and immune cell infiltration. Various closely interacting cell types, including innate immune cells, T cells, and keratinocytes, are known to contribute to inflammation. Innate immune cells most likely initiate the inflammatory process by secretion of IL-23. IL-23 mediates expansion of T helper 17 (Th17) cells, whose effector functions, including IL-17A, activate keratinocytes. Keratinocyte activation in turn results in cell proliferation and chemokine expression, the latter of which fuels the inflammatory process through further immune cell recruitment. One question that remains largely unanswered is how genetic susceptibility contributes to this process and, specifically, which cell type causes disease due to psoriasis-specific genetic alterations. Here we describe a mouse model based on the human psoriasis susceptibility locus TNIP1, also referred to as ABIN1, whose gene product is a negative regulator of various inflammatory signaling pathways, including the Toll-like receptor pathway in innate immune cells. We find that Tnip1-deficient mice recapitulate major features of psoriasis on pathological, genomic, and therapeutic levels. Different genetic approaches, including tissue-specific gene deletion and the use of various inflammatory triggers, reveal that Tnip1 controls not only immune cells, but also keratinocyte biology. Loss of Tnip1 in keratinocytes leads to deregulation of IL-17–induced gene expression and exaggerated chemokine production in vitro and overt psoriasis-like inflammation in vivo. Together, the data establish Tnip1 as a critical regulator of IL-17 biology and reveal a causal role of keratinocytes in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Simulation and analysis of a Wi-Fi public network using the radio mobile software

The paper presents the simulation output analysis of a Wi-Fi public network using the Radio Mobile application. The network consists of fixed antennas mounted on masts on the Bucharest-Brasov railway track side and access points installed on the roof of the trains circulating on this line. The outputs of the simulations are represented by maps and charts showing the availability and distribution of the radio signal in terms of the area coverage and point-to-point links between the fixed and mobile radio units.
Impact of Membrane Phospholipid Alterations in Escherichia coli on Cellular Function and Bacterial Stress Adaptation

ABSTRACT Bacteria have evolved multiple strategies to sense and rapidly adapt to challenging and ever-changing environmental conditions. The ability to alter membrane lipid composition, a key component of the cellular envelope, is crucial for bacterial survival and adaptation in response to environmental stress. However, the precise roles played by membrane phospholipids in bacterial physiology and stress adaptation are not fully elucidated. The goal of this study was to define the role of membrane phospholipids in adaptation to stress and maintenance of bacterial cell fitness. By using genetically modified strains in which the membrane phospholipid composition can be systematically manipulated, we show that alterations in major Escherichia coli phospholipids transform these cells globally. We found that alterations in phospholipids impair the cellular envelope structure and function, the ability to form biofilms, and bacterial fitness and cause phospholipid-dependent susceptibility to environmental stresses. This study provides an unprecedented view of the structural, signaling, and metabolic pathways in which bacterial phospholipids participate, allowing the design of new approaches in the investigation of lipid-dependent processes involved in bacterial physiology and adaptation. IMPORTANCE In order to cope with and adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions, bacteria have to sense and quickly respond to fluctuating conditions. In this study, we investigated the effects of systematic and controlled alterations in bacterial phospholipids on cell shape, physiology, and stress adaptation. We provide new evidence that alterations of specific phospholipids in Escherichia coli have detrimental effects on cellular shape, envelope integrity, and cell physiology that impair biofilm formation, cellular envelope remodeling, and adaptability to environmental stresses. These findings hold promise for future antibacterial therapies that target bacterial lipid biosynthesis.
Cooperative strategy for multiple mobile manipulators

This paper proposes a simple method for carrying a large object by cooperation of multiple mobile manipulators with position controllers. It is necessary for each robot to have compliance in order to avoid excessive inner forces due to the mutual positioning errors. Thus manipulators on mobile platforms are used as free joint mechanisms by locking some joints and making the rest joints free. These free joints play the role of mechanical compliance. First, compliance needed for cooperation among position-controlled robots is shown. Second, the statics and error characteristics of cooperative systems including compliant mechanisms are analyzed. Some feedback control laws for platforms moving on rough ground are proposed and discussed.