bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of the Sociolinguistic Competence Strategies in Teaching and Learning English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Dorgham Rasha
Published: July 2024

Examining the effects of applying sociolinguistic competency teaching strategies on university students' linguistic proficiency and sociological variance among EFL learners is one of the key goals of this study, which aims to investigate one of the major obstacles associated with learning EFL. The research objectives were investigated through the use of a quantitative, descriptive approach. A questionnaire was employed as a means of gathering research data. One hundred fifty EFL students from several universities in Egypt were chosen at random to participate in this study. The data analysis was performed using SPSS. The research findings show that the implementation of sociolinguistic competence teaching strategies has a positive impact on linguistic proficiency and sociological variation as perceived by university EFL students. The results revealed that there are statistically significant differences (α ≤ 0.05) in the impact of implementing sociolinguistic competence strategies for teaching EFL on linguistic proficiency and sociological variation as perceived by participants according to gender. In addition, the results revealed that there are statistically significant differences (α ≤ 0.05) in the impact of implementing sociolinguistic competence strategies for teaching EFL on language proficiency and sociological variation as perceived by students according to academic level. The findings of the study demonstrated how crucial it is to use sociolinguistic competency techniques to illustrate linguistic performance and sociological variances in order to achieve sociological realization. Furthermore, the results indicated that this is the primary method used by EFL students in Egyptian universities to develop sociolinguistic competence.
The Effect of Using Verbal Thinking Skills on Enhancing Effective Verbal Communication Among Ninth-Grade Female Students in Jordan
Authors: Ashour Rateb Qasem , Muhaidat Iman Ali
Published: July 2024

This research examined how students' levels of verbal thinking correlated with their ability to communicate effectively in ninth grade among Jordanian females. A control group and an experimental group were established in accordance with a semi-experimental design. The students were recruited from Yarmouk University Model School utilizing a preexisting strategy. The research included 40 students, with 20 in the experimental group getting training in verbal thinking abilities and the other 20 in the control group receiving teaching in traditional ways. A validated and reliability-assessed 30-item multiple-choice test was used to accomplish the study's goals. The experimental and control groups were evaluated at the beginning and end of the trial, respectively, using this instrument. The study's results showed statistically significant differences, demonstrating the beneficial influence of training verbal thinking skills on developing competent oral communication.
Code Mixing Phenomena in Vietnam Online Newspapers
Authors: Vinh Le Thi Thuy
Published: July 2024

Along with the development of society, based on the internet platform, in addition to other types of written and visual newspapers, online newspapers were born, allowing people around the world to quickly access news without delay depends on space and time. To attract readers, the language of online newspapers is also increasingly being innovated to meet readers' tastes. Code mixing is a fairly common phenomenon in online newspapers, giving readers interesting impressions. Therefore, the article "Code mixing phenomena in Vietnam online newspapers” will survey the forms of code mixing in languages in Vietnamese online newspapers, thereby providing comprehensive assessments of this phenomenon on the Internet  journalistic language in particular and communication in general.
Reactivation of paremia with the name of KYIV in modern communication
Authors: Syzonov Dmytro ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: July 2024

The article describes the process of reactivation of paremies with the oikonym "Kyiv" in Ukrainian-language communication. The status of paremias in modern linguistics is considered, various approaches to the understanding and scientific interpretation of paremia units are presented, in particular, their study in a broad perspective is necessary – as sayings and proverbs, precedent sayings, aphorisms, etc. The author emphasizes the most commonly used paremic constructions in Ukrainian, such as язик до Києва доведе, Київ – мати міст руських, як до Києва рачки, etc. On the material of lexicographic works, artistic texts of Ukrainian literature, spoken and media communications, parallels are drawn with the usage and functional possibilities of paremys with the oikonym "Kyiv". It was followed how paremic units with the element "Kyiv" in their structure changed and transformed in mass communication. The status of media paremia and its discursive parameters are also determined. A separate locus of the article is devoted to new phraseological units that appear in mass communication. Thus, paremias are actualized in various types of media, in the structure of which the lexeme "Kyiv" is a key manipulator: Kyiv holds the blow; Maidan starts from Kyiv; take Kyiv in three days; This is Kyiv, baby; KyivNotKiev, etc. The "discussion" of such paremias is also an indication of the dynamism of such constructions in mass communication, which is motivated by the needs of the media to influence the recipients. It was found that the occurrenceq of paremies with the oikonym "Kyiv" is a frequent phenomenon associated with the status of the city in the geopolitics, economy, and culture of Ukraine. Such a complex of extra-lingual factors indicates the dynamism of the structure and stylistic possibilities of paremias, capable of being actualized in new communicative conditions.
Application of the m* and d* Statistics for Assessing the Quality of Data in Psychological Research Using Benford's Law (Illustrated with Reaction Time Measurements)
Authors: Kolachev N.I.
Published: July 2024

The objective of the proposed study was to examine the properties of statistics used to assess the conformity of the distribution of the first significant digit to Benford's Law, m* and d*, with relatively modest sample sizes (10≤n ≤70). A simulation study was conducted to achieve this goal. Data were simulated following a log-normal distribution with parameters that mimic the distribution of reaction time measurements. The distribution of the first significant digit was examined in standardized values raised to the power of γ; 5≤γ≤100. It was found that the statistic m* does not depend on the power of the number, unlike d*. Critical values were established for samples ranging from 10 to 70 observations with an increment of h=10. It turned out that for small n, the critical values of the statistic d* are close to asymptotic, while the critical values of the statistic m* are significantly larger. The functionality of the established critical values was tested within the framework of an experimental study: one respondent performed the Stroop cognitive test in accordance with the instructions (control case), while another violated them (experimental case). It was discovered that the statistic d* does not allow for differentiation in the behavior of subjects. Conversely, m* proved sensitive to changes in respondent behavior, and in the experimental case, it significantly more often allowed for the rejection of the null hypothesis regarding the conformity of the distribution of the first significant digit of the standardized value of reaction time to Benford's Law compared to the control. Thus, a preliminary conclusion is made that the statistic m* is more functional compared to d* in studying the quality of data on reaction time with small n.
Review of Open-Source Libraries for Solving Time Series Forecasting Problems
Authors: Svekolnikova E.A. , Panovskiy V.N.
Published: July 2024

An overview of various open-source Python libraries for time series analysis and forecasting is presented. It covers such tools as Prophet, Kats, Merlion, as well as ARIMA, LSTM algorithms, which allow to study seasonality, trends and anomalies in time series data. The capabilities of each library, their advantages and applications in time series data analysis are discussed in detail.
The Experience of Developing an Adaptive Hybrid EEG Signal Filter with Extended Information Adaptability
Authors: Yuryev G.A.
Published: July 2024

This article discusses the development of a hybrid EEG signal filter based on independent component analysis (ICA) and wavelet transform. The purpose of the filter is to remove artifacts from EEG signals caused by physiological processes that can be identified by synchronous time series data. The article describes the algorithm and justifies the suitability of the method for the task. Empirical results from real experimental studies are also presented.
The last system by Cavalier-Smith
Authors: Zmitrovich Ivan V. , Perelygin Vladimir V. , Zharikov Mikhail V.
Published: July 2024

At the end of 2022, after the death of T. Cavalier-Smith, his fundamental synthesis under the title “Ciliary transition zone evolution and the root of the eukaryote tree: implications for opisthokont origin and classification of kingdoms Protozoa, Plantae, and Fungi” was published on the “Protoplasma” pages. This work highlights the organization of the transition zone of the eukaryotic flagellum and provides a new author’s system for this domain. Since the analysis of this heuristically important paper was not included in any memorial essay dedicated to Cavalier-Smith published in 2021–2022, this writing is dedicated to attempt of such an analysis. In addition, a glossary is provided containing specific terms introduced by Cavalier-Smith, which will help to better navigate the theoretical heritage of this scientist.
A fully integrated fabry-perot interferometric sensor having distributed feedback internal mirrors
Authors:   , Ryley James Francis , Herczfeld Peter R
Published: July 2024

A fully integrated Fabry-Perot interferometric sensor has been designed, fabricated and tested. The basic waveguiding structure was formed by K⁺-Na⁺ ion exchange from the molten salt. The resulting waveguide refractive index profile has been approximated by an exponential to allow solution of the wave equation. Microprobe analysis indicates this to be a reasonable assumption. Distributed Bragg reflectors have been used as internal mirrors. These reactive ion etched structures provided moderate reflectivities in the 23%-40%. Coupled mode formalism has been used in the modelling of these reflectors. Grating transfer functions were also experimentally determined for both gratings on the final device. These have been discussed in the light of the analytic system that was developed. The full sensing device has been demonstrated in both the bulk and evanescent modes. Temperature response was used to demonstrate bulk mode sensitivity. Separate control of the gratings' temperatures was found to be necessary. Evanescent sensitivity was demonstrated via a series of droplet experiments that involved a sequence of droplets of various sizes and refractive indices. The experimental results show the 'as made' device to be somewhat more sensitive than the equivalent Mach-Zehnder design.
Development of a fiberoptic ultrasonic sensor using light diffraction technique
Authors:   , Wu Yunqiu , Lewin Peter Andreas , Shankar P Mohana
Published: July 2024

Precise ultrasonic field measurements are desirable to determine the acoustic output of medical ultrasonic equipments, and study potential bioeffects caused by ultrasound, etc. A PVDF hydrophone, which is the most commonly used device to measure the characteristics of ultrasonic fields, suffers from a number of drawbacks. It perturbs the field distribution and leads to spatial averaging effects due to its finite aperture. In addition, it is very delicate and susceptible to damage. The goals of this research were to develop a fiberoptic ultrasonic sensor to overcome these problems, and to evaluate its potential capability in biomedical applications. The probe developed is based on the mechanism of acoustooptic interaction. An optical fiber acts as an extrinsic sensor to carry a coherent light beam into the ultrasonic field and another optical fiber collects the diffracted beams. A photodetector is used to measure the optical signal. By analyzing this signal, both the amplitude and the frequency information of the acoustic field can be retrieved. Initial efforts have been focused on the choices of the individual components, the implementation of the fiberoptic ultrasonic sensor, and the optimization of the experimental setup. A series of experiments have been conducted using the fiberoptic ultrasonic sensor and a calibrated PVDF needle hydrophone to evaluate the sensor's performance in terms of its sensitivity, linearity, frequency response, as well as the temporal and spatial responses to the focused and unfocused transducers with resonant frequencies from 2.25 to 20 MHz. Experimental results presented clearly demonstrate the sensor's ability in measuring the temporal responses and beam profiles of a variety of transducers and its applicability in high frequency and high intensity measurements. No other probe currently available is able to measure the high frequency ultrasound, in a simple fashion, without affecting the field distribution. In addition, the developed sensor is immune to electromagnetic interference and can withstand hazardous environment. It has immediate applications in biomedical and industrial areas. The work presented in this thesis is part of a major effort toward the ultimate goal of designing a fiberoptic ultrasonic sensor that can characterize the ultrasonic field in vivo.
Relationships between impairments, three-dimensional kinematics, functional limitation, and disability in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome
Authors:   , Michener Lori A. , McClure Philip W.
Published: July 2024

Subacromial impingement syndrome is a multi-dimensional musculoskeletal disorder. This disorder can theoretically result from a variety of contributory factors, impacting a patient in a variety of ways. The medical management for subacromial impingement syndrome is commonly based on the theoretical disablement model. This model indicates that impairments lead to functional limitations then consequentially to disability. The purposes of this study were to examine: (1) measures of shoulder-specific functional limitation; (2) psychometric properties of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES); and (3) relationships between impairment, functional limitation, and disability in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome. To examine the measures of self-report shoulder function, a MEDLINE literature search was performed to locate these scales. Eleven scales were selected for review, with methodological and practical criteria established to evaluate each scale. All scales met the minimal criteria, however not all scales were equal with regard to the criteria established for analysis. To examine the psychometric properties of the ASES, patients with shoulder dysfunctions (n = 63) completed the ASES, the University of Pennsylvania Shoulder Score (Penn), and the Short-form 36 (SF-36) during their initial evaluation, 24-72 hours later, and then after 3-4 weeks of physical therapy. The test re-test reliability, internal consistency, error, and responsiveness values were acceptable. Construct and discriminant validity was demonstrated. The ASES is a reliable, valid, and responsive outcome tool. To examine the relationships between the entities of the disablement model, patients with subacromial impingement syndrome (n = 48) completed three questionnaires; the SF-36, ASES, and Penn. Impairments of pain, range of motion, strength of the rotator cuff and scapular musculature, thoracic spine and forward shoulder posture, glenohumeral and scapulothoracic kinematics were assessed with various methods. Results demonstrated that there were multiple relationships between the measures. However, pain was the only impairment that demonstrated the ability to predict function limitation and disability. Relationships among the composite variables of impairments, functional limitation, and disability demonstrated moderate associations however, the data from this study suggested that the causal model of disablement described by Nagi is not the manner in which in which to characterize patients with subacromial impingement syndrome.
Integrability and chaos in quantum systems (as viewed from geometry and dynamical symmetry)
Authors:   , Zhang Wei-Min , Feng Da Hsuan
Published: July 2024

It is known that the development and deep understanding of modern interaction theory and classical mechanics are made through geometry and symmetry. Yet, quantum mechanics which was regarded to be the microscopic theory of classical mechanics and achieved the crowning success in interpreting the entire microscopic world was developed purely from algebraic methods. In this thesis, we will study the geometry and dynamical symmetry in quantum systems, from which the question of integrability and chaos are explicitly addressed. First of all, the quantum dynamical degrees of freedom and quantum integrability are precisely defined and the inherent geometrical structure of quantum systems is explored from the fundamental structure of quantum theory. Such a geometrical structure can provide a framework to simultaneously build quantum and classical mechanics. The quantum-classical correspondence is then explicitly deduced. The dynamics of quantum system before it reaches the classical limit is formulated. Thus, the classical chaos is proven to be a special limiting phenomena of quantum systems and the dynamics before the system reaches its classical chaos is explored. The latter is the first step to seek the quantum manifestation of chaos. The relationship between integrability and dynamical symmetry are studied and some universal properties are discovered: a dynamical system (both quantum and classical) is integrable if it possesses a dynamical symmetry. Chaos will occur if the system undergoes a dynamical symmetry breaking and is accompanied by a structural phase transition. Thus, the concept of dynamical symmetry can be used to predict the general behaviors of a system. The theoretical underpinnings developed in this thesis are verified by many basic quantum mechanical examples. In the second part, we have applied the theory to construct the geometrical description for fermionic systems and then use this general formulation to study the geometrical properties, integrability and chaos in nuclear collective motions. The study of geometry for the fermion systems clearly show how the pure quantum properties (e.g. Pauli principle) are exhibited in geometry and how these geometrical manifestations can interpret experimental facts in nuclear collective motion (e.g. the satiation of nuclear deformation and narrow oblate window). The dynamical symmetry and dynamical symmetry breaking in nuclear collective motion are extensively studied.
Estimation of signal characteristics and coherent patterns in spatially variable seismic ground motions
Authors:   , Zhang Ouqi , Zerva Aspasia
Published: July 2024

A methodology for the investigation of the spatial variation of seismic ground motions is presented. The approach is first applied to simulated motions for performance validation. Data recorded at the SMART-1 dense instrument array in Lotung, Taiwan, during Events 5 and 39 are then used in the analysis. The seismic motions are modeled as superpositions of sinusoidal functions, described by their amplitude, frequency, wavenumber and phase. For each event and direction (horizontal or vertical) analyzed, the approach identifies a coherent, common component in the seismic motions at all recording stations, and variabilities in amplitudes and phases around the common component sinusoidal characteristics, that are particular for each recording station. It is shown that the variation in both the amplitudes and phases of the motions at the station locations around the common component characteristics contribute significantly to the spatially variable nature of the motions. The dispersion range of the amplitude and phase variability around their corresponding common components appear also to be associated with physical parameters. The spatially variable arrival time delays of the waveforms at the stations due to their upward traveling through the site topography, in addition to the wave passage delays identified from signal processing techniques, constitute another important cause for the spatial variation of the motions; their consideration in the approach facilitates also the identification of the correlation patterns in the amplitudes and phases.
A model of psychosocial factors and pain in fibromyalgia
Authors:   , Rudnicki Susan R. , Graham Julie Landel
Published: July 2024

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a well-recognized musculoskeletal pain disorder of unknown etiology. The purpose of this study was to evaluate an exploratory model of psychosocial factors that contribute to the experience of FM pain. Seventy-six women with FM were recruited from two outpatient rheumatology offices. Patients completed a battery of psychosocial measures including measures of perceived and attentional (solicitous) social support, internal locus of control (LOC), self-efficacy, active and passive coping, and depression. Women also reported pain levels and pain-related disability. A series of hierarchal regression equations were conducted for the purpose of path analysis. Analysis of the individual paths suggested that perceived social support, self-efficacy, and passive coping affect the pain experience, and that an internal LOC, perceived social support, self-efficacy, and passive coping are related to psychosocial outcomes in this model. Importantly, this investigation also demonstrated the mediating influence of self-efficacy in coping with FM pain. Clinical interventions to target these psychosocial factors in FM are discussed. Future prospective studies are needed to test the causal relationships among these variables.
The impact of psychological individualism/collectivism, control systems, and task structure on group task performance
Authors:   , Latshaw Craig A. , Curatola Anthony Paul , Walters-York Melissa L
Published: July 2024

A basic tenet of the theory of evolution is that organisms must adapt to their environment or become extinct. The same could be said about accounting and its ability to contribute value to organizations. Contemporary management and operational techniques, have changed the organizational environment in which accounting operates. In response, accounting "fit theory" contends that organizational components should "fit" together. If not, friction is created, which produces less than optimal results. These operating techniques have also increased the value of workers to organizations and have increased the focus on human behavior. Recent individualism/collectivism (I/C) psychological research suggests that a major determinant of human behavior is how individuals perceive themselves. Individuals who see themselves in relation to others (collectivists) behave differently than individuals who see themselves as independent of others (individualists) However, little, if any, empirical accounting fit theory research has addressed the impact of U.S. workers' I/C tendencies on the effectiveness of different types of control systems. Specifically, total group units of output were determined when U.S. subjects were grouped in homogeneous teams based on their I/C tendencies, placed in a simulated cooperative flexible manufacturing task environment, and exposed to individual or group goals/incentives. No significant differences in group productivity were achieved as long as either the goal/incentive system or the task structure were aligned with the subjects' I/C orientation. However, a significant decrease in productivity occurred when the I/C orientation of the subjects was inconsistent with both the goal/incentive system and the task structure. Finally, there was no significant increase in productivity when subject I/C orientation, goal/incentive system, and task structure were all aligned. This study's results have two important implications for accounting. The first implication is that, even within the U.S., accountants need to consider the behavioral differences between individualists and collectivists if accounting control systems are to promote organizationally desirable behavior. Second, this study provides evidence that the effectiveness of group or individually based accounting systems may be contingent on the I/C orientation tendencies of the workers.
Wideband and efficient ultrasonic transducers using multiple piezoelectric polymer films
Authors:   , Zhang Qian , Lewin Peter Andreas
Published: July 2024

Presently used ultrasound imaging transducers employ almost exclusively PZT or PZT composite materials, and are designed to operate at fundamental half wavelength resonance frequency. These transducers use front matching layers which limit the transducer's bandwidth and overall resolution of the imaging system. This thesis describes the development of a new type of wideband imaging transducers. The approach proposed here, namely, a switchable Barker code transducer (SBCT) design, uses multiple piezopolymer films and allows transducer to be operated at off-resonance mode. More specifically, the transducer described here can be driven by an arbitrary excitation signal, which will allow image resolution to be tailored to diagnostic needs at clinically relevant frequency, between 2-10 MHz. Also, the design proposed improves electrical matching between the polymer transducer and the excitation source, and allows the pulse-echo sensitivity of the polymer transducers to be comparable with that of the PZT or PZT composite transducers. The principle of the multilayer transducer design is described together with a new model developed to predict the transducer performance. The model accounts for all losses in piezoelectric material and allows the influence of tissue, backing material and excitation signals to be determined. Comprehensive computer simulations of both multilayer SBCT and conventional PZT transducer behavior were carried out. The computer predictions indicate that the design proposed here will outdo resonant PZT transducers with respect to the axial resolution and sensitivity. To verify the computer modeling, several prototypes of Barker code transducers were constructed and tested. The experimental data were found to be in good agreement with the theoretical predictions. Fundamental limitations of the non-resonant Barker code design are discussed and the advantages of using the multilayer transducers in the 2-10 MHz frequency range, typical of that presently used in medical diagnostic ultrasound are pointed out. Finally, the potential use of the multilayer transducers in the 25-100 MHz frequency range is examined and the suggestions for future improvements of the design are also included.
Measuring self-care independence in cystic fibrosis
Authors:   , Patton Susana R. , Graham Julie Landel
Published: July 2024

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a serious genetic illness that affects the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems of patients. CF treatment may include a complex and rigorous daily regimen of medication, dietary, and lung clearance recommendations. These behaviors involve many lifestyle changes for patients and families. A number of recent studies have uncovered psychosocial and medical factors that may promote or inhibit the adherence rates of patients. Moreover, they have identified developmental factors which can moderate the relationship between psychosocial correlates of adherence and patients' adherence. The findings of these studies warrant keen attention to theories of child development when designing research and intervention projects for young patients with CF. The goal of this project was to investigate the self-care independence in a sample of pediatric patients with CF. There were two main objectives: first, to develop an empirically validated measure of self-care independence for patients with CF and second, to use the proposed measure to examine the percentage rates of children with CF who had mastery of self-care skills at specific chronological ages. Data were collected from 80 patients with CF (ages 4 to 17 years) and their families. Outcome variables were obtained from self-report questionnaires and through structured interviews. A separate sample of 174 professionals who work with pediatric patients with CF was recruited to provide age estimates of skill mastery for 44 self-care behaviors. Data supporting the internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and concurrent validity of the proposed independence measure are presented in this paper. Additional analyses evaluating the predictive validity of the independence measure with patient adherence offered only limited support of the hypothesized relationship between these constructs. In fulfillment of the second objective, the percentage rates of children with specific skill mastery in each of 14 chronological age groups are examined. These data are compared by patient and professional samples and yield four profiles of comparative relationships.
Cognitive bias in adolescents with social anxiety disorder
Authors:   , Rheingold Alyssa Ann , Herbert James D
Published: July 2024

Judgmental biases for threat-relevant stimuli are thought to be important mechanisms underlying the etiology and maintenance of anxiety disorders. Previous research has shown that adults with social anxiety disorder provide higher probability and greater cost estimates of negative social situations than do nonanxious adults. That is, adults with social anxiety disorder rate negative social events as more likely (probability) to occur as well as more distressing (cost). However, no empirical research has examined the cognitive processes of social anxiety disorder in the adolescent population. A growing body of research suggests that adolescence is a critical period in the development of social anxiety disorder. Elucidation of the cognitive processes of social anxiety disorder, in the adolescent population may aid in a better understanding of the etiology and maintenance of the disorder, as well as provide direction for treatment and prevention efforts. This study investigated the judgmental differences, specifically probability and cost estimations, of negative social and nonsocial events between adolescents with social anxiety disorder and adolescents without social anxiety disorder. Results indicate that adolescents with social anxiety disorder do in fact have specific judgment biases for negative social situations. Socially phobic adolescents overestimated the cost and probability of negative social events compared to nonanxious adolescents, after controlling for depressive symptoms. Implications and limitations of these findings are discussed.
The functional significance of angiocidin expression in breast carcinoma progression
Authors:   , Sargiannidou Irene , Tuszynski George P.
Published: July 2024

Thrombospondin 1 (TSP-1) is a high molecular weight extracellular matrix glycoprotein released from thrombin-stimulated platelets and synthesized by many cell types, including epithelial and tumor cells. This extracellular matrix molecule is involved in angiogenesis, but the exact role is controversial. Previous findings in our laboratory strongly support TSP-1's involvement in promoting tumor progression and angiogenesis. Each of the three polypeptide chains of TSP-1 is composed of domains consisting of homologous amino acid sequences. In 1993, we isolated a protein that bound the CSVTCG residues of the type I repeat domain of TSP-1. Antibody raised against the purified protein was used to screen a prostate tumor cell library. The protein, named angiocidin, was successfully cloned using the polyclonal antibody. In this thesis the role of angiocidin expression in breast carcinoma progression was investigated. MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells were transfected with the full-length angiocidin cDNA in the sense or antisense orientation in order to either over-express or block its expression. Cell adhesion assays were performed to test the adhesive property of the transfected cells to TSP-1. Angiocidin transfectants adhered to TSP-1 more rapidly and about 25% increased adhesion was observed as compared to the control transfectants, while antisense expressing cells were about 60% less adhesive than the control transfectants. The ability of the cells to invade through a porous membrane towards the chemoattractant TSP-1 was also tested using the Boyden chamber invasion assay. The sense transfected cells showed 50% decreased invasion compared to controls and the antisense transfected cells showed a 50% increased invasion compared to controls. The in vivo function of angiocidin was then tested using athymic mice. Angiocidin over-expressing cells showed significant tumor growth suppression compared with the control cells. These studies suggested that angiocidin functions to inhibit the invasive behavior of breast epithelium and contributes to the regression of tumor growth. Long-term goals of this study will be to develop synthetic peptides that mimic the activity of angiocidin. These results may eventually be used as treatment of breast carcinomas.
The role of management control systems to promote performance improvement in an environment of continuous improvement
Authors:   , Sim Khim Ling
Published: July 2024

This research seeks to better understand whether the design of management control systems relates to performance/productivity improvement, measured in terms of customer perceived quality, on time delivery, waste reduction, and cycle time reduction. Using theories developed across several disciplines, five explanatory variables (i.e., Total Quality Management, Just-in-time, work group concept, proper goal setting procedures, and information feedback) are closely examined. Other factors, which may affect improvement have been controlled in this study. They are timing for TQM and JIT implementation, workers' mode of compensation, and the existence of major structural changes, which are non-TQM or non-JIT related. The sample of electronic firms selected were located within the United States with annual sales of $10 million and above. Letters requesting participation in this research study were sent to the manufacturing directors of 1,500 randomly selected firms which met the above criterion. One hundred and twenty-six firms (8.4 percent) responded positively to the request while 3 firms agreed to review the questionnaire before making a commitment to participate. Out of this group of 129 firms, 83 firms completed the questionnaires, yielding an overall response rate of 6.2 percent. This study contributes to the existing literature in several ways. First, using an integrated framework, the results seem to support the theory which states that management control systems, if properly designed and implemented, will assist the process of continuous improvement. Specifically, the results indicate that, in general, firms which implemented the notion of continuous improvement through TQM and JIT techniques, as well as team work concepts tended to have relatively greater improvements in performance. In addition, these high-improvement firms tend to set goals, provide more frequent feedback on performance information to their shop floor personnel, as well as using incentive plans. These findings have important implications for organizations. Overall, they imply that, without proper planning (i.e., designing) and control (i.e., the implementation and monitoring of performance), organizational goals or objectives may not be readily attained. The second contribution of this study lies within the realm of management accounting. The results suggest that, as an important component of performance monitoring systems, today's management accounting systems should provide performance information feedback to shop floor personnel. Such feedback of information serves as diagnostic signals to the employees, so that they can promptly react to production problems, such as a sudden increase in the defect rate, cycle-time and setup time. If the diagnostic signals come too late, or are not provided, process improvement activities may be jeopardized.
Body Fat Deposition in College-Aged Women
Authors:   , Berner Laura A. , Lowe Michael R
Published: July 2024

Several lines of evidence suggest considerable overlap of predictors of weight gain and eating disturbance, particularly bulimic pathology. While psychological predictors have been extensively researched, relatively few studies have focused on biological predictors apart from weight. Prior findings suggest that body weight relative to previous highest weight (weight suppression) predicts weight gain and eating disturbance, but the psychological and biological mechanisms underlying this relationship remain unexplored. In the current study, body fat, a biological variable that seems to have both biological (e.g., metabolic) and psychological (e.g., body-image influencing) salience for bulimia nervosa was examined in relation to weight suppression, body image, and eating disturbance in non-eating disordered college-aged women who were followed prospectively for two years. Women with greater fat stores, independently ofBMI, had higher levels of body dissatisfaction, and women with more central fat deposition at baseline were more likely to lose weight and fat over two years. Those who lost weight and fat over two years were more likely to develop eating disturbance over two-year follow-up, and women higher in WS at baseline were more likely to develop compensatory behaviors at two-year follow-up. The results of this study deepen our current understanding of the interplay between biological and psychological risk factors for eating disorders and could inform eating disorder prevention efforts by suggesting that women with higher central fat deposition are more distressed about their appearance.
Microtubule-associated protein 1B (MAP1B) gene expression in the nervous system
Authors:   , Liu Dong , Fischer Itzhak
Published: July 2024

Microtubule-associated protein 1B (MAP1B) is an major constituent of the neuronal cytoskeleton that is highly expressed during early development of the nervous system and plays a role in axonal growth. To study the regulation of MAP1B transcription we have isolated genomic clones containing up to 11 kb of the upstream region of the rat MAP1B gene, sequenced about 1.8 kb of the proximal promoter region and identified several consensus elements and inverted repeats. S1 nuclease and RNase protection assays identified two groups of transcription initiation sites corresponding to two TATA boxes that were utilized differentially in distinct regions of the nervous system during development. Transient transfection assays demonstrated that two DNA fragments of 229 bp and 127 bp, each containing a TATA box and its adjacent region, could independently direct neuron-specific expression of a reporter gene using the in vivo initiation sites. Structural analysis identified a DNase I hypersensitive site at the proximal promoter region that appears to be specific to brain. Fine mapping with S1 nuclease sensitivity assay detected two adjacent sites in the same region. Electrophoresis mobility shift assay showed that two consensus elements present in the proximal promoter region, Sp1 and CRE, had strong binding activity with all nuclear extracts. In contrast, two previously identified common sequences, a neuronal motif (TGGAGGAGTGGAGGCAGCCACCACGAG) and a TCC repeat motif, showed a much weaker binding activity with brain nuclear extract relative to other tissue. These results suggest that two alternative promoters regulate the temporal and tissue-specific expression of the rat MAP1B gene. This expression pattern is regulated by the active chromatin structure in the proximal promoter region and the interaction of specific nuclear factors with positive and negative control elements in this region. Finally, several founder lines of transgenic mice were generated with two constructs of the MAP1B promoter-LacZ gene that will be used to further study the in vivo function of the MAP1B promoter during normal development and nerve regeneration after injury.
Optical transmitter with millimeter-wave subcarrier
Authors:   , Vieira Amarildo J. , Herczfeld Peter R
Published: July 2024

There is increasing need for high-speed fiberoptic links operating in the microwave and millimeter wave range for applications like cellular personal communication systems (PCS), high capacity distribution systems (HDTV, data, interactive multimedia), phased array, remote antennas, etc. The conventional methods of high frequency modulation at millimeter-wave frequencies do not satisfy system requirements like low relative intensity and phase noise, and high dynamic range. They are also costly. Solid-state lasers are well known for their high spectral purity, high optical power output and satisfy the requirements for a high performance optical transmitter for high capacity distribution systems. A compact and mass-producible form of solid state laser is the microchip laser whose short cavity length can lead to high mode-locking frequencies. This thesis concerns the design, fabrication, and characterization of a Neodymium-doped Lithium Niobate (Nd:LiNbO3) mode-locked microchip laser. The 3.48mm long microchip laser radiates at 1.084[mu]m and was mode-locked at 20GHz and 40GHz frequencies. The maximum optical output power was 35mW, and the modulation index of the microwave and millimeter-wave subcarrier was 95.6%. A compatible monolithic Fabry-Perot intensity modulator was also developed to be combined with the microchip laser. With this device the information signal can be superimposed on the millimeter-wave subcarrier. The modulator was designed to withstand high optical power over a wide frequency range (3.1GHz). The entire system provides a compact, low noise, high power optical source with a millimeter-wave subcarrier and a wideband modulator.
Characterization of recombinant monomeric sarcosine oxidase from bacillus sp. B-0618
Authors:   , Wagner Mary Ann Hope , Jorns Marilyn S
Published: July 2024

Sarcosine oxidases are flavoprotein oxidases which demethylate sarcosine, forming glycine and formaldehyde. Under aerobic conditions, hydrogen peroxide is generated as the enzyme flavin passes reducing equivalents to molecular oxygen. There are two major classes of bacterial sarcosine oxidases: heterotetrameric (TSOX, [alpha] = 96-103 kDa, [beta] = 42-45 kDa, [gamma] = 20-23 kDa, [delta] = 6-14 kDa) and monomeric (MSOX, 42-45 kDa). MSOX shares sequence homology with the [beta]-subunit of TSOX. A folate-usage study revealed that during catalysis, TSOX is able to transfer the methyl group of sarcosine to [6S]-tetrahydrofolate, forming 5,10-methylene-tetrahydrofolate instead of formaldehyde. MSOX is unable to use tetrahydrofolate as a one-carbon acceptor. Recombinant Bacillus sp. B-0618 MSOX was overexpressed in E. coli DH1 containing the MSOX expression vector pMAW. The enzyme was purified by ammonium sulfate fractionation and ion-exchange chromatography. The apparent Km and k cat of MSOX was determined in air-saturated solution using sarcosine, N-ethylglycine, and L-proline. The absorbance spectrum of MSOX was perturbed by several sarcosine-like and proline-like substrate analogs. Based on these perturbations, the affinity of MSOX for these compounds was measured. Chemical analysis and sequencing of the MSOX flavin peptide determined the FAD cofactor of MSOX is covalently bound to the protein through an 8[alpha]-(S-cysteinyl) linkage at Cys315. Steady-state kinetic studies, using sarcosine or N-methyl-L-alanine as substrate at various oxygen concentrations, showed that MSOX functions via a ternary complex mechanism. MSOX forms a thermodynamically stable red anionic flavin radical upon anaerobic reduction with a sub-stoichiometric concentration of sarcosine. The red radical was also seen under anaerobic conditions by EDTA light reduction, and upon incubation with dithiothreitol or thioglycolate. A slow-forming enzyme sulfite complex was observed at pH 7.0. A selenomethionine-substituted MSOX derivative was successfully created by expression of the enzyme in the pMAW-containing methionine auxotrophic host, E. coli DL41, cultured in the presence of L-selenomethionine. Purified selenomethionine-substituted MSOX was used in crystallographic studies to determine the atomic structure of MSOX. Based on primary amino acid sequence, MSOX is a member of an emerging family of flavoenzymes which use similar substrates and contain covalently bound flavin.
Efflux and plasma transport of biosynthetic desmosterol
Authors:   , Phillips Jane Ellen , Johnson William J.
Published: July 2024

Previous work shows that the efflux of biosynthetic desmosterol from cells is three times more efficient than that of cholesterol. We wanted to determine the mechanism of this enhanced release. We labeled CHO-K1 cells with (3H) acetate precursor and measured sterols in the whole cells, plasma membranes and caveolae, and those released to high density lipoprotein (HDL3). The (3H) desmosterol-to-(3H) cholesterol ratio was similar in the plasma membrane and whole cells, but was greater in HDL3, suggesting that the more efficient efflux of desmosterol is due to more rapid desorption from the plasma membrane. The ratio in caveolae was similar to that in whole cells, arguing against selective delivery of desmosterol to caveolae as an explanation for the more rapid efflux of this sterol. Additionally, to demonstrate that the enhanced release of desmosterol was not due to enhanced intracellular cycling, we made vesicles from CHO-cell plasma membranes labeled with (3H) desmosterol or (14C) cholesterol, and desmosterol was released three times more rapidly than cholesterol. To determine if this enhanced release occurred without cellular membrane proteins, we measured the transfer of cholesterol and desmosterol between large unilamellar vesicles (LUV), and found that the transfer of desmosterol was two to three times more rapid than cholesterol. A similar differential was seen when HDL3 or low density lipoprotein (LDL) served as the acceptor for the LUV donors. These results show that the greater efflux efficiency of biosynthetic desmosterol can be attributed to more efficient desorption from the plasma membrane, and that this difference is a property of the sterols' association with the lipid bilayer. In vivo, the rapid efflux of biosynthetic sterol intermediates, followed by efficient delivery to the liver, may constitute an important mechanism for preventing the various types of pathology associated with these materials.