Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Business travellers' perception of service quality: a prefatory study of two European city centre hotels.

The business traveller contributes significantly to the turnover of the hotel industry and, with the globalisation of business, this sector shows signs of increasing growth. Service quality has now become one of the main factors used to gain competitive advantage, thus the industry must focus more specifically on the needs and expectations of its business customers. The aim of this paper is to focus on the business travel market and more specifically on the comparison of two hotels in two European cities, Brussels and Manchester. This area of research has not been attempted before and will provide an interesting comparison with findings in USA. A literature review identified the relevant attributes used to measure service quality, which were utilised to design a questionnaire, distributed to customers in a five star hotel in Manchester and in Brussels. The primary data obtained were then compared with the findings of other researchers. The analysis indicated that Brussels scored the majority of the attributes more highly (many significantly) than did Manchester. This may be influenced by the international profile of the Brussels respondents who tended to travel on business more frequently than the Manchester sample. The comparisons with the USA surveys found some inconsistencies that might be attributed to societal differences.Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibition of Mutant αB Crystallin‐Induced Protein Aggregation by a Molecular Tweezer

Background Compromised protein quality control causes the accumulation of misfolded proteins and intracellular aggregates, contributing to cardiac disease and heart failure. The development of therapeutics directed at proteotoxicity‐based pathology in heart disease is just beginning. The molecular tweezer CLR01 is a broad‐spectrum inhibitor of abnormal self‐assembly of amyloidogenic proteins, including amyloid β‐protein, tau, and α‐synuclein. This small molecule interferes with aggregation by binding selectively to lysine side chains, changing the charge distribution of aggregation‐prone proteins and thereby disrupting aggregate formation. However, the effects of CLR01 in cardiomyocytes undergoing proteotoxic stress have not been explored. Here we assess whether CLR01 can decrease cardiac protein aggregation catalyzed by cardiomyocyte‐specific expression of mutated αB‐crystallin (CryABR 120G). Methods and Results A proteotoxic model of desmin‐related cardiomyopathy caused by cardiomyocyte‐specific expression of CryABR 120G was used to test the efficacy of CLR01 therapy in the heart. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were infected with adenovirus expressing either wild‐type CryAB or CryABR 120G. Subsequently, the cells were treated with different doses of CLR01 or a closely related but inactive derivative, CLR03. CLR01 decreased aggregate accumulation and attenuated cytotoxicity caused by CryABR 120G expression in a dose‐dependent manner, whereas CLR03 had no effect. Ubiquitin‐proteasome system function was analyzed using a ubiquitin‐proteasome system reporter protein consisting of a short degron, CL1, fused to the COOH‐terminus of green fluorescent protein. CLR01 improved proteasomal function in CryABR 120G cardiomyocytes but did not alter autophagic flux. In vivo, CLR01 administration also resulted in reduced protein aggregates in CryABR 120G transgenic mice. Conclusions CLR01 can inhibit CryABR 120G aggregate formation and decrease cytotoxicity in cardiomyocytes undergoing proteotoxic stress, presumably through clearance of the misfolded protein via increased proteasomal function. CLR01 or related compounds may be therapeutically useful in treating the pathogenic sequelae resulting from proteotoxic heart disease.
Tracking Asset Volatility By Means of a Bayesian Switching Regression

It is often desirable to know whether or not a risky asset's beta coefficient has changed and, if so, at what point in time the change occurred. For example, this knowledge is of obvious importance to beta-using security analysts and portfolio managers. As another example, a given theory may imply that a particular firm's beta should have changed at different points in time. Investigators may want to test such a hypothesis. Furthermore, tests are frequently performed on the effects of events on residuals of the market model, tests requiring the assumption of beta stability. For these, and possibly other reasons, it is useful to be able to detect that a change in beta did, in fact, take place as well as, in some instances, identifying the point in time at which the change took place.
Light Deprivation Affects Larval Development and Arrestin Gene Expression in Anopheles stephensi

Abstract The role of light exposure on the final stages of development of Anopheles stephensi larvae to pupae and adult mosquitoes was explored. We demonstrated a significant reduction in the development of adult mosquitoes when larvae were bred in the absence of light compared with the control group bred in alternating 12 h of light and 12 h of dark. To correlate these findings at the molecular level, RNA levels of the visual arrestin gene were examined. Arrestins are an important gene family that play a role in the vectorial capacity of Anopheles and mediate neurotransmission as well as olfactory and visual sensory reception in insects. Semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction showed a reduction in the expression of the visual arrestin gene in pupae that developed from larvae in the absence of light compared with larvae bred under normal conditions.
Genotype and sex effects on the relationship between energy intake and protein deposition in growing pigs.

Seventy-two crossbred (Large White X Landrace) pigs were used in a 3 X 7 factorial experiment to investigate the response of two strains of boars (strains A and B) and of castrated male pigs (strain B) to seven levels of intake of a single diet (ranging from 5.3 Mcal digestible energy [DE]/d to ad libitum) between 45 and 90 kg live weight. All aspects of growth performance and body composition were affected to different degrees by both strain and sex. At all levels of energy intake strain A boars grew faster, had a lower feed to gain ratio and contained less fat and more water in the empty body than strain B boars, which in turn exhibited faster live weight gain and more efficient and leaner growth than castrated males. The magnitude of the differences in growth performance between strain A and strain B boars and castrates increased with increased energy intake above 7.88 Mcal DE/d, and these differences were associated with concomitant strain differences in their respective capacity for protein growth and in the relationship between energy intake and protein deposition. For strain A boars the rate of protein deposition increased linearly from 92 to 188 g/d with increased energy intake from 5.3 Mcal DE/d to ad libitum. For strain B boars and castrates the rate of protein deposition increased linearly with increased energy intake up to 7.88 Mcal DE/d, but thereafter it remained constant at 128 and 85 g/d, respectively. For castrates protein deposition was depressed (P less than .01) when the diet was offered ad libitum. Strain A boars had a higher energy requirement for maintenance (3.55 Mcal DE/d) than strain B boars (2.77 Mcal DE/d) or castrates (2.60 Mcal DE/d). Strain A boars also contained less protein and more water in the fat free empty body than the other two pig types.
Convenience yield, mean reverting prices, and long memory in the petroleum market

The paper analyses convenience yields in the petroleum market. The implied convenience yield for petroleum and petroleum products is found to be driven by a non-stationary and mean reverting long memory process. The theoretical implication of this finding is established. It is suggested that this might be attributed to the fact that the market is expecting mean reversion in the spot prices. It is demonstrated that crude oil and unleaded gasoline are driven by similar mean reversion processes whereas heating oil exhibits a more seasonal pattern. This suggests that the market expects a more seasonal fluctuation in heating oil than crude oil or unleaded gasoline prices. Furthermore, the volatility process and its relation with the mean process has been found to be in accordance with the prediction of the theory of storage, i.e. positive convenience yields tend to be more volatile. In addition, it is argued that, consistent with implications of the theory of storage, higher convenience yields tend to cause higher volatility. However, the asymmetric nature of this causality implies that positive convenience yields are more likely to cause higher volatility than negative.
The CellML Model Repository

SUMMARY The CellML Model Repository provides free access to over 330 biological models. The vast majority of these models are derived from published, peer-reviewed papers. Model curation is an important and ongoing process to ensure the CellML model is able to accurately reproduce the published results. As the CellML community grows, and more people add their models to the repository, model annotation will become increasingly important to facilitate data searches and information retrieval. AVAILABILITY The CellML Model Repository is publicly accessible at http://www.cellml. org/models.
A multifactor volatility Heston model

We model the volatility of a single risky asset using a multifactor (matrix) Wishart affine process, recently introduced in finance by Gourieroux and Sufana. As in standard Duffie and Kan affine models the pricing problem can be solved through the Fast Fourier Transform of Carr and Madan. A numerical illustration shows that this specification provides a separate fit of the long-term and short-term implied volatility surface and, differently from previous diffusive stochastic volatility models, it is possible to identify a specific factor accounting for the stochastic leverage effect, a well-known stylized fact of the FX option markets analysed by Carr and Wu.
Improved clustering and association rules mining for university student course scores

In order to help students improve their performance in college, this paper discovered the association rules among the scores of different courses, and introduced the parameter "Interest" to help filtering the rules. In order to meet the demand for score discretization in association rules mining, this paper analyzed score distribution characteristics, and proposed an initial cluster center optimized and isolated point pre-processed K-means clustering algorithm based on sample distribution density. This algorithm can reduce the sensitivity of K-means algorithm to initial cluster centers and isolated points. The numerical results and evaluation index show that this algorithm can meet the requirements of score discretization. The result of association rules mining using this improved K-means algorithm for score discretization can efficiently reduce the invalid and wrong rules.
DIRECTORS' REMUNERATION AND ITS DETERMINANTS: What do we know?

This article surveys the literature along two dimensions that reflect important issues in managerial compensation. The first part reviews components and structure of managerial pay. The second part reviews determinants of directors’ compensation. My review demonstrates that firm performance is the most studied determinant of directors’ pay. For this reason, I have separated studies conducted in the UK and those conducted in the US and other countries. Further, I discuss other factors that influence directors’ remuneration. Overall, this survey helps to highlight areas where directors’ compensation research has stalled, areas it has ignored, as well as providing direction for reactivating the field by outlining queries for future research and theory building.
Unique functions of Sonic hedgehog signaling during external genitalia development.

Coordinated growth and differentiation of external genitalia generates a proximodistally elongated structure suitable for copulation and efficient fertilization. The differentiation of external genitalia incorporates a unique process, i.e. the formation of the urethral plate and the urethral tube. Despite significant progress in molecular embryology, few attempts have been made to elucidate the molecular developmental processes for external genitalia. The sonic hedgehog (Shh) gene and its signaling genes have been found to be dynamically expressed during murine external genitalia development. Functional analysis by organ culture revealed that Shh could regulate mesenchymally expressed genes, patched 1 (Ptch1), bone morphogenetic protein 4 (Bmp4), Hoxd13 and fibroblast growth factor 10 (Fgf10), in the anlage: the genital tubercle (GT). Activities of Shh for both GT outgrowth and differentiation were also demonstrated. Shh(-/-) mice displayed complete GT agenesis, which is compatible with such observations. Furthermore, the regulation of apoptosis during GT formation was revealed for the first time. Increased cell death and reduced cell proliferation of the Shh(-/-) mice GT were shown. A search for alterations of Shh downstream gene expression identified a dramatic shift of Bmp4 gene expression from the mesenchyme to the epithelium of the Shh mutant before GT outgrowth. Regulation of mesenchymal Fgf10 gene expression by the epithelial Shh was indicated during late GT development. These results suggest a dual mode of Shh function, first by the regulation of initiating GT outgrowth, and second, by subsequent GT differentiation.
Bibulocystis gloriosa sp. nov. (Pucciniales) on Caesalpinia scortechinii in Queensland, with comments on Spumula caesalpiniae

A rust causing leaf spotting and distortion of twigs and branches of Caesalpinia scortechinii in Queensland is described as the new species Bibulocystis gloriosa. Uredinia and telia occur on spotted pinnules, and pycnia, aecial uredinia and telia on galled and twisted leaf rachides, twigs and branches. B. gloriosa is similar to Bibulocystis viennotii on Albizia granulosa in New Caledonia in having a macrocyclic life cycle with all spore states, and teliospores with two fertile cells and two cysts. It differs in having aecial urediniospores and urediniospores with uniformly thickened walls and several scattered germ pores, rather than the apically thickened walls and equatorial germ pores of B. viennotii. Teliospores in the two species are similar in size, but those of B. gloriosa have proportionally larger fertile cells and smaller cysts than in B. viennotii. To date, B. gloriosa is known from only two localities in south-eastern Queensland. Comparison with the type specimen of Spumula caesalpiniae on Caesalpinia nuga from Indonesia has shown that the two rusts are generically distinct.
Desipramine inhibits salivary Ca(2+) signaling and aquaporin translocation.

OBJECTIVE Desipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant with a negative side effect of dry mouth. The Na(+) /H(+) exchanger was suggested to be a target of desipramine in salivary gland cells. However, it is unclear whether desipramine has other targets in the salivary secretion pathway. Here, we studied the effect of desipramine on salivary Ca(2+) signaling. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cytosolic free Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+) ]i ) was determined with the fluorescent Ca(2+) indicator fura-2/AM. Aquaporin translocation was analyzed by Western blotting and immunocytochemistry of confocal microscopy. RESULTS Desipramine inhibited the carbachol- and histamine-mediated increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+) ]i ) in a concentration-dependent manner. However, desipramine did not affect increases in [Ca(2+) ]i mediated by extracellular ATP, sphingosine-1-phosphate, or thapsigargin. The adrenergic receptor blockers prazosin and propranolol did not reverse the desipramine-mediated inhibition of carbachol- and histamine-induced increases in [Ca(2+) ]i . We also found that desipramine inhibits the increase in membrane aquaporin-5 level triggered by carbachol and histamine treatments. CONCLUSIONS These results imply that desipramine blocks muscarinic and histamine receptor-mediated Ca(2+) signaling and the subsequent translocation of aquaporin-5 in human salivary gland cells, suggesting a novel mechanism for the xerogenic effects of desipramine.
Commentary: Is There Hope for Policy?

State policies in Cape Town, Auckland, Mumbai and London are openly driving gentrifi cation. These policies have a global pattern: writing on Cape Town, Visser and Kotze identify “the role of neo-liberal local governance in the context of global city ambitions so central to third-wave debates . as central to these unfolding processes of gentrifi cation” (p. 2567). Redistributive local policies in the interests of the poor are overshadowed by the South African government’s efforts to “aggressively grow” the national economy by making its cities “globally competitive”. A raft of neo-liberal policies, including restructuring government and deregulating markets, paved the way for corporate and institutional investment which produced direct and indirect displacement consistent with ‘Anglo-American’ theories of gentrifi cation. In New Zealand, Murphy argues that an “ostensibly aspatial programme” of economic reform (p. 2521), associated also with restructuring government and with deregulation of the national planning system, resulted in a predictable ‘neoliberal spatial fi x’ for property developers and Commentary: Is There Hope for Policy?
AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS RESEARCH AND EXTENSION MARKETING PROGRAMS: HOW WELL ARE THEY INTEGRATED?

Extension marketing economists were surveyed to determine whether they are using available research results and whether research is being conducted on topics relevant to extension marketing economists. In some cases, the beliefs of extension marketing economists differ from recent research results. The research topics recommended by extension economists and the topics of papers presented at the 1994-97 annual NCR-134 Conference on Applied Commodity Price Analysis, Forecasting, and Market Risk Management are well matched. While relevant research is being done, many extension economists desire marketing strategies that both reduce risk and increase income. Research, however, has not produced such strategies.
Revisiting Plog’s Model of Allocentricity and Psychocentricity... One More Time

Stanley Plog’s model of allocentricity and psychocentricity, a seminal tourism model, has been widely cited in the tourism literature and is included in virtually every hospitality and tourism text. At the same time, it has been scrutinized by a host of critics who questioned aspects of the model’s applicability and validity. This study of travelers’ vacation histories seeks to add to the research regarding this important model. The results present an interesting dichotomy, indicating that although the model does not really help to predict where travelers are likely to visit, it is highly effective in suggesting where they would ideally like to visit. These findings should be of significant value to tourism marketers and researchers attracted to Plog’s model.
Platelet-derived growth factor stimulated vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and its molecular mechanism.

AIM To study the molecular mechanism of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB-stimulated vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation. METHODS DNA synthesis was measured by [3H]thymidine incorporation. Phosphorylation of the 42- and 44-kDa Ca(2+)-calmodulin dependent protein kinase (CCDPK) was measured by Western blotting method. The expression of c-myc specific mRNA was detected by in situ hybridization. RESULTS PDGF-BB (2 micrograms.L-1) induced DNA synthesis and activated CCDPK in a concentration-dependent manner and a induced a marked c-myc mRNA expression. Egtazic acid (EGTA, 5 mmol.L-1), genistein (400 mumol.L-1) or PD 98059 (50 mumol.L-1) reduced PDGF-BB (2 micrograms.L-1)-induced CCDPK activities and inhibited VSMC [3H]thymidine incorporation (P < 0.05). PD 98059 (50 mumol.L-1) also inhibited PDGF-BB (2 micrograms.L-1)-induced c-myc mRNA expression. CONCLUSION PDGF stimulated VSMC proliferation by activation of p44/p42 CCDPK, which is mediated by Ca2+ and protein tyrosine kinase (PTK), and up-regulation of c-myc mRNA expression.
Outbound Open Innovation and its Effect on Firm Performance: Examining Environmental Influences

Firms may open up their innovation processes on two dimensions. While inbound open innovation refers to the acquisition of external technology in open exploration processes, outbound open innovation describes the outward transfer of technology in open exploitation processes. Prior open innovation research has focused on the inbound dimension, whereas the outbound dimension has been relatively neglected. Therefore, this article addresses the relationship between outbound open R&D strategies and firm performance. We use data from 136 industrial firms to test four hypotheses on the moderating effects of environmental factors in the relationship between open innovation strategies and firm performance. The results show that the degree of technological turbulence, the transaction rate in technology markets, and the competitive intensity in technology markets strengthen the positive effects of outbound open innovation on firm performance. By contrast, the degree of patent protection does not facilitate successful open innovation. The results are crucially important to managers because they show under what environmental conditions open innovation strategies enhance performance.
The Trade Impact of Indian Antidumping Measures against China: Evidence from Monthly Data

China’s importance for India as a trading partner has increased tremendously over the recent years. At the same time, China has become the main target of Indian antidumping measures with a number of measures that is unprecedented worldwide. This article provides a detailed analysis of trade flows between the two emerging economies and investigates on which type of products and in which sectors the Indian government applies antidumping measures against China. Then, this article estimates the trade impact of those measures that were imposed during the Great Recession, using monthly data on exports from China to India. The use of monthly data is relatively new to the literature and allows a detailed examination of the trade impact of antidumping measures and its dynamics. This article finds that antidumping measures decrease the Chinese export value and quantity to India immediately and to a significant extent. The impact is quite stable over time.
Individual Utility Effects of Minimum Wages in a New Activity-Choice Framework

A new model combining occupational and consumption choices into activity choices is applied to estimate the effect of a minimum wage on utility levels. It is shown that utility is affected negatively by a minimum-wage boundary, regardless of whether the individual concerned switches to a different job or to self-employment, or whether he leaves the working sector to pursue activities in the unpaid or consumer sector. So long as wages remain the main tool for redistributing wealth, there will be an unavoidable trade-off between utility maximisation and distributional equality.