cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Calcium Release in FDB Muscle Fibers of the RyR-R163C Mutant Model of Malignant Hyperthermia

The R163C is one of the most frequent missense mutations of the human RyR1; it confers malignant hyperthermia susceptibility and results in central cores. Alterations of the excitation contraction (EC) coupling associated with the R163C mutation have been studied in myotubes and, to a lesser extent, in adult FDB fibers of the transgenic R163C mouse. In order to further evaluate the pathophysiology of the EC coupling in these animals, we studied the properties of Ca2+ release microdomains evoked by action potentials (AP), and measured the rate of Ca2+ release in global (spatially averaged) transients evoked by APs and/or voltage clamp pulses. Current- and voltage-clamp experiments were done in adult FDB fibers isolated from R163C and control mice internally equilibrated with a solution containing 250 μM OGB-5N and 30:15 mM EGTA:Ca2+. The properties of AP-evoked global Ca2+ transients were similar in fibers of R163C and control animals. Also, peak Ca2+ release fluxes of transients elicited by depolarizations to +60mV were not significantly different in R163C (236±60 μM/ms, n=3) with respect to those in control fibers (242±58 μM/ms, n=6). However, the voltage-dependence of the peak Ca2+ fluxes was significantly shifted to more negative potential (by 10 mV, n=3) in fibers from R163C. Finally, the amplitude of Ca2+ release microdomains varied significantly along consecutive triads of R163C fibers, which contrasts with the monotonous dependence with position along the fiber's longitudinal axis in control fibers. Altogether our results show that though EC coupling is on-average mildly compromised in R163C mutants, Ca2+ release sites at the triads are conspicuously altered by the RyR1 mutation. Supported by NIH grants AR047664, AR041802, and AR054816. The R163C mice were kindly provided by Dr. I. Pessah, UC Davis.
Numerical study of field theories coupled to 2D quantum gravity

Abstract We study the scaling properties of models which, being formulated on dynamical lattices, include a coupling to afluctuating metric. The first of these deals with a set of bosonic fields whose action may be written in terms of an extrinsic curvature. We present evidence for a ‘crumpling’ transition, estimate certain critical exponents and discuss possible condinuum limits. The second study concerns fermionic fields, represent here as Ising spins. A careful finite size scaling study is performed yielding exponents in agreement with analytical predictions. We further study the equation of state and the intrinsic spin-spin correlation function.
Absolute cross sections for electron-impact excitation of N 2 +

Crossed beams of ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}^{+}$ and electrons were used to measure the absolute cross sections for the excitation, $\mathrm{N}_{2}^{}{}_{}{}^{+}(X^{2}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{g}^{+}, v=0)+e\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\mathrm{N}_{2}^{}{}_{}{}^{+}(B^{2}\ensuremath{\Sigma}_{u}^{+}, v=0)+e$, over an electron energy range from below threshold (3.17 eV) to 91 eV. Absolute emissions of the 391.4-nm band were measured from impact of electrons on ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}^{+}$ ions in various state mixtures. Corrections were made to the data to account for state mixtures and other effects to obtain the cross section for the above process. The cross section falls from its finite threshold value of 3.0 \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}16}$ to 0.30 \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}16}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ at 91 eV. The present values are more than an order of magnitude smaller than either the 1968 values of Lee and Carleton or the 1973 value of Daschenko et al. At threshold the Gaunt-factor formula of Seaton predicts a value only 45% of that measured, but at the highest energy, the predictions of the Seaton formula have converged to within 20% of the present values of the cross section. Rate coefficients calculated from the present measurements are consistent with the recent rate-coefficient measurements of McLean et al. Total uncertainty at high confidence is about 18%, taken as the quadrature sum of random uncertainty (15% at 98% confidence level) with systematic uncertainties (about 8% at high confidence). The analysis leading to interpretation of the emission cross section in terms of an excitation cross section between specific states is subject to uncertainties which are not well defined, and are not included in the stated uncertainty.
Mechanistic and fuel-cell implications of a tristable response in the electrochemical oxidation of methanol

The results of experiments and calculations on the oxidation of methanol are presented in this paper. The oxidation process was considered under conditions of constant current. Experimental measurements reveal that the oxidation of methanol exhibits a response in which three different branches of steady-state potentials exist under the same conditions. Characteristics of the measurements and the present understanding of the electrochemical mechanism are consistent with the hypothesis that the two lower branches coexist because an intermediate, surface bonded CO, can react with both surface water molecules and surface bonded hydroxyl radicals. Calculations show that the coexistence of the two lower branches of states can exist because of the two reactions. Calculations reveal also a feedback mechanism that causes the system to make a transition between the two branches. The latter instability has practical importance, as it can cause a methanol-air fuel cell potential to drop suddenly.
Isolation and characterization of sulfite mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Sulfite-resistant and sulfite-sensitive mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae were isolated and characterized. Genetic analysis indicated that one and four genes were responsible for the resistant and sensitive responses, respectively, and suggested that defects in methionine and cysteine metabolism were not involved. Some resistant alleles, all of which were dominant, conferred greater resistance than others. Mutations conferring sensitivity were recessive and one co-segregated with impaired respiration. Two of the sensitive mutants exhibited cross-sensitivity to other metabolic inhibitors: sulfometuron methyl, cycloheximide, oligomycin, and antimycin A. A 50% glutathione deficiency in one sensitive mutant was not sufficient in itself to account for its sensitivity. Screening of other relevant mutants revealed that relative to wild-type, met8 and a thioredoxin null mutant are sensitive, and met3 and met14 mutants are not. Reduced production of extracellular acetaldehyde, a compound that detoxifies sulfite, was observed in three of the four sensitive mutants. However, acetaldehyde was also underproduced in the resistant mutant. Because sulfite is a reducing agent, cells were tested for coincident sensitivity or resistance to ascorbate, selenite, dithiothreitol, nitrite, thiosulfate, reduced glutathione, and cysteine. No consistent pattern of responses to these agents emerged, suggesting that the response to sulfite is not a simple function of redox potential.
Visual determinants of performance on a close inspection job

SUMMARY This study presents the experiences of the author in constructing optometric predictive models to be used as a part of the personnel selection policy of ‘Beden Terbiyesi Genel Mudurlugˇu Spor Toto Teskilati’ (BTGMSTT) of Turkey. The job under consideration is a close visual inspection job. The visual functions and performance data obtained in the field and the laboratory were analysed using multivariate statistical techniques. A statistically and practically significant predictive model was obtained only through the controlled condition (laboratory simulation).
Photon stimulated desorption from KI: Laser control of I-atom velocity distributions

Irradiation of cleaved KI single crystals with photons near the bulk absorption threshold between 5.1 and 6.0 eV produces hyper-thermal I(2P3/2) emission with a minor thermal component, and with little spin orbit excited I(2P1/2) emission. The I-atom kinetic energy distribution may be tuned by choice of photon energy indicating that control of photon energy and pulse power can produce I-atoms in selectable quantities and velocity distributions.
Analysis of the structure of vibration signals from mechanical systems in the process of growth of a defect

We construct a statistical model of vibration response of a thin body containing a crack and study the dynamics of changes in the cross-correlation links between the stationary components of the vibration signal. It is shown that the crack size affects neither the shape of correlation functions nor the width of their central maximum.
From Ribosome to Riboswitch: Control of Gene Expression in Bacteria by RNA Structural Rearrangements

Structural elements in the 5' region of a bacterial mRNA can have major effects on expression of downstream coding sequences. Folding of the nascent RNA into the helix of an intrinsic transcriptional terminator results in premature termination of transcription and in failure to synthesize the full-length transcript. Structure in the translation initiation region of an mRNA blocks access of the translation initiation complex to the ribosome binding site, thereby preventing protein synthesis. RNA structures can also affect the stability of an RNA by altering sensitivity to ribonucleases. A wide variety of mechanisms have been uncovered in which changes in mRNA structure in response to a regulatory signal are used to modulate gene expression in bacteria. These systems allow the cell to recognize an impressive array of signals, and to monitor those signals in many different ways.
Zinc and copper status of adolescent females

Abstract Dietary, plasma and erythrocyte zinc and copper status of 92 adolescent females 14–16 years of age (38% were black) were evaluated. Two 24-hour dietary recalls were used to assess dietary intakes. Plasma and RBC concentrations were analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Mean dietary zinc intake was 81% of the RDA for this population. Ten percent of the adolescent females were marginally deficient in zinc on the basis of plasma levels (
The Role of Minimally Invasive Surgery in Thoracolumbar Spine Trauma

Minimally invasive surgical stabilization of thoracolumbar spine injuries has the potential to reduce surgical morbidity, improve postoperative care and rehabilitation, and even serve as a lifesaving measure in the treatment of patients with multiple traumatic injuries. The advantages of minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of thoracolumbar trauma have been investigated. Although it seems to offer considerable advantages over conventional open surgery, more outcome data are needed to prove its true advantages. The role of minimally invasive surgery in treating spine trauma will likely increase significantly as the field progresses and as techniques are enhanced and more widely learned.
Prespawning Characteristics of Lampreys Native to Lake Michigan

Prespawning native lampreys were collected from seven Lake Michigan tributaries and fecundity, relative fecundity (eggs/body weight), egg diameter, gonadosomic index, sex ratio, and length and weight were determined. The study included two parasitic lampreys, Ichthyomyzon castaneus and I. unicuspis, and two nonparasitic lampreys, I. fossor and Lampetra appendix. Fecundity was estimated at 14,078 for I. castaneus from the Muskegon River. Fecundity estimates varied significantly (P <0.05) for I. unicuspis from the Menominee River (13,403) when compared with samples from the Peshtigo (21,259) and Oconto (22,820) rivers. Estimated fecundity for I. fossor did not differ significantly among specimens from the Little Cedar and Little Wolf rivers and Walla Walla Creek (1,475 to 1,668), but differed significantly (P <0.05) for L. appendix from the Fox River (1,617, the lowest reported) and from the Betsie River (2,020). Fecundity increased with total length (P < 0.05) for all species in seven of the nine rivers. Females were larger than males for each species except L. appendix. Males predominated in the five rivers where nonparasitic lampreys were collected and in two of four rivers from which parasitic specimens were taken. Although absolute fecundity was much greater in parasitic lampreys, relative fecundity was greater for nonparasitic species. Ichthyomyzon unicuspis was collected from tributaries of the eastern shoreline for the first time. Prespawning measurements, especially fecundity, are important not only for understanding the competitive advantage that Petromyzon marinus has over endemic species, but also if restoration is attempted in areas where these species are depleted by lampricide application to control P. marinus.
Self-reported body weight perception and dieting practices in community-dwelling patients with schizophrenia.

Abstract Introduction Many patients with schizophrenia are exposed to serious health risks associated with their excess body weight. Evidence exists that even a moderate amount of weight loss may have significant health benefits. Thus, weight control in schizophrenia patients has become an important treatment goal. Although studies in the general population show that satisfaction with body weight is an important predictor for engagement in various weight loss measures, the perspective of schizophrenia patients has not been assessed. Method Information on self-reported weight perception, desire to lose weight as well as weight loss attempts was obtained according to methods employed in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, Cycle III (NHANES III). Body weight and height were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Results Perception of body weight and desire to lose weight were correlated to BMI. Both obese female and male subjects (BMI⩾30) were aware of their weight status. However, whereas overweight females (BMI>25≤29.9) accurately perceived themselves so, males in this category had difficulties perceiving themselves overweight, and consequently neither wanted to lose weight, nor tried to lose weight. As means of weight loss, caloric restriction (diet) was most frequently employed (by more than 80% of study subjects); yet only a third of study subjects (34.4%) engaged in the recommended combination of diet and exercise to lose weight. Questionable weight loss practices were also frequently employed, especially among women. Conclusions Obese patients (BMI≥30) were generally aware of their excess body weight and wanted to lose weight. Only non-obese, yet overweight males (BMI>25≤29.9) did not perceive themselves as overweight and consequently did not try to lose weight. Weight loss practices did not always follow established recommendations. Especially women were likely to approach weight loss with questionably appropriate and unsafe methods.
Exploring the Language–Culture Nexus through German Kabarett

As a contribution toward envisioning how translingual and transcultural competence may be realized in the foreign language classroom, this article shows that German Kabarett serves as especially suitable material for facilitating students’ awareness of language as a tool with which to access culture and as an integral aspect of culture itself. I discuss materials, methods and outcomes of my course “Flashy Erotics to Forbidden Laughter: German Kabarett through the 20th Century,” unfolding the ways that Kabarett speaks to a vast array of cultural discourses, engaging the language-culture nexus on the textual and performative levels.
Descartes and Pascal

There is a popular view that Descartes and Pascal were antagonists. I argue instead that Pascal was a Cartesian, in the manner of other Cartesians in the seventeenth century. That does not, of course, mean that Pascal accepted everything Descartes asserted, given that there were Cartesian atomists, for example, when Descartes was a plenist and anti-atomist. Pascal himself was a vacuuist and thus in opposition to Descartes in that respect, but he did accept some of the more distinctive and controversial aspects of Cartesianism, including his mechanistic philosophy and the consequent view that animals are automata.
Spectrophotometric determination of phosphate by extraction of reduced molybdoantimonylphosphoric acid with acetophenone-chloroform

Abstract A 90% ( v v ) mixture of acetophenone-chloroform is an effective extractant for reduced molybdoantimonylphosphoric acid. The extraction is quantitative over the acidity range of 0.04 to 4.8 N sulfuric acid. The mixed solvent extractant is virtually immiscible with water and can be used at aqueous/organic volume ratios from 1:1 to 40:1 with no loss of solvent or decrease in % extraction. Phosphate is easily determined from 5 to 1000 ppb. No interference from silicate was experienced.
Optimal search efficiency of Barker’s algorithm with an exponential fitness function

Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods may be employed to search for a probability distribution over a bounded space of function arguments to estimate which argument(s) optimize(s) an objective function. This search-based optimization requires sampling the suitability, or fitness, of arguments in the search space. When the objective function or the fitness of arguments vary with time, significant exploration of the search space is required. Search efficiency then becomes a more relevant measure of the usefulness of an MCMC method than traditional measures such as convergence speed to the stationary distribution and asymptotic variance of stationary distribution estimates. Search efficiency refers to how quickly prior information about the search space is traded-off for search effort savings. Optimal search efficiency occurs when the entropy of the probability distribution over the space during search is maximized. Whereas the Metropolis case of the Hastings MCMC algorithm with fixed candidate generation is optimal with respect to asymptotic variance of stationary distribution estimates, this paper proves that Barker’s case is optimal with respect to search efficiency if the fitness of the arguments in the search space is characterized by an exponential function. The latter instance of optimality is beneficial for time-varying optimization that is also model-independent.
Comparing Bertrand and Cournot Equilibria: A Geometric Approach

By presenting a geometric analysis of a duopoly, this article attempts to provide some insights into recent results by Singh and Vives regarding Bertrand and Cournot equilibria and the relative dominance of price and quantity strategies. It shows that under fairly general and reasonable assumptions (a) Cournot equilibrium prices (quantities) are higher than Bertrand equilibrium prices (quantities) and (b) a quantity (price) strategy dominates a price (quantity) strategy if the goods are substitutes (complements).
Rapid determination of the pollen content in lake sediment cores as a tool in paleoenvironmental research

Pollen analysis of lake sediments is a time-consuming technique. The laborious sample preparation hampers quick determination of the pollen content and localization of sediment intervals based on palynological criteria within long sediment cores. This study introduces a quick and almost non-destructive pollen analytical method using smear-slides that allows the preliminary determination of the pollen content of lake sediments. Pollen grains are stained with Calberla’s solution. To test the reliability of the method, the results of the smear-slide technique were compared to those of a standard pollen analysis from the same stratigraphic sequence. The data from both techniques produced largely consistent results. Differences between both data sets reflect the statistical uncertainties associated with the low pollen concentrations in the smear slides and the low pollen counts employed in this technique. Despite these limitations, application of this method during the initial investigation of lake sediments can overcome some of the major challenges of paleoenvironmental research projects. The method can be used to rapidly determine important changes in the pollen stratigraphy, which allows the identification of sediment intervals for further, more detailed proxy analysis and the correlation of sediment cores. Knowledge of the pollen stratigraphy at an early stage of a research project can also assist in the selection of samples for radiocarbon dating. In addition, staining of sediment samples in the field can be used to verify the success of lake coring campaigns by comparing preliminarily determined pollen contents with expected pollen assemblages.
Maternal serum triglycerides as predictive factors for large-for-gestational age newborns in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

AbstractObjective. To determine the contribution of maternal lipids in predicting large-for-gestational age (LGA) newborns born to women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Design. Retrospective study. Setting. Yonsei University Health System, Korea. Population. A total of 104 women diagnosed with GDM between January 2000 and June 2008. Methods. Women who were positive on the 50 g oral glucose challenge test (24–28 weeks' gestation) and who were referred patients suspected of GDM underwent a 3 hours, 100 g oral glucose tolerance test for GDM diagnosis. Maternal fasting serum triglycerides and total, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were determined at 24–32 weeks' gestation. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine maternal parameters independently associated with delivering LGA newborns at term. Main outcome measures. Risk contributions for LGA newborns. Results. Maternal fasting serum triglyceride levels were significantly higher in mothe...
Zone-Center Raman Active Modes In Cubic And Hexagonal Diamond

The recent interest in the growth of thin diamond films has led us to consider the differences between the hexagonal (lonsdaleite) and cubic structures. Both phases have very similar properties, and empirical and theoretical considerations indicate that their structural energies are nearly identical. When thin films are grown the hexagonal phase may compete with the cubic phase, making characterization of the film difficult. Cubic diamond has one Raman active mode, while hexagonal diamond has three. The opportunity thus exists for Raman spectroscopy to differentiate between the two tetrahedrally bonded phases (as well as "amorphous" or graphitic phases). Electronic structure calculations can be used to obtain theoretical Q=0 frequencies of the Raman active modes in both structures. We have used the first principles Linearized Augmented Plane Wave method within the local density approximation to calculate the zone center phonon frequencies. The calculated frequency of the cubic diamond Raman mode is 1336 cm-1, very close to the experimental value of 1333 cm-1. Our calculations indicate that the hexagonal structure A t has a zone-center frequency of 1269 cm-1, the Elg mode is at 1215 cm-1, and the E1g mode is at 430 cm-1. Anharmonic corrections are rather large (2-3%) in the cubic diamond Raman mode and in the hexagonal Al mode, but are not important in the E2g and Elg modes. We will compare our results with the available experimental information.
Hormonal regulation of protein degradation in hepatoma cells in tissue culture.

The effects of dexamethasone and insulin on the degradation of total cellular protein have been investigated in an established line of rat hepatoma cells (HTC) in suspension culture by measuring the release of acid-soluble radioactivity from previously labeled protein. When incubated in a chemically-defined, serum-free medium, HTC cells lose approximately 2 to 3% of their labeled protein per hour. Dexamethasone (0.1 μM) causes a 20% increase in the apparent rate of protein degradation. The addition of insulin (0.1 U/ml) to dexamethasone-treated cells causes a 26% decrease in the rate of protein degradation by a mechanism which does not require concomitant RNA synthesis. Since actinomycin D blocks the modest enhancement of amino acid incorporation into protein stimulated by insulin, but does not affect the inhibition of protein breakdown by insulin, it appears that the effect of insulin on protein degradation is independent of its effects on protein synthesis. Bovine serum (5%), which mimics the insulin st...
Computing occluding contours using spherical images

Abstract Occluding contours are an important feature of the projection of solid objects, and as such have been the subject of many studies. To further aid these studies, I developed an algorithm for computing the folds and occluding contours of solid objects from arbitrary vantage points. The algorithm exploits the fact that the spherical image of a fold is confined to a great circle on the unit sphere in case of orthographic projection, and a small zone in case of perspective projection. The algorithm starts by computing an object's spherical image, which needs to be done only once. Then for each view, it determines the great circle corresponding to the current vantage point, extracts folds from the great circle, and projects them onto the image surface to obtain the occluding contours. Representing an object by its spherical image and its folds by great circles also provides intuitive insights into the behavior of folds and, hence, occluding contours under changes in viewing position.
Toward On-Site Closed Nuclear Cycles Not Requiring Deep Burial of Waste

We discuss a non-chemical means for onsite reprocessing of spent fuel from hybrid reactors such as LIFE and also deep burn fission reactors. Using a plasma-based Archimedes Filter of standard design, actinides could be removed in a few passes through the Filter to qualify as TRU waste that could be disposed of in a site like WIPP. An improved Filter is discussed that could reduce waste to 1 cubic meter per year, suitable for shallow burial.
Primary lung carcinoma metastatic to a solitary fibrous tumor

We report the case of a 78-year-old man with a 2 month history of newly diagnosed metastatic lung adenocarcinoma, who presented with a left gluteal soft tissue mass. Histological examination of the mass revealed a solitary fibrous tumor containing metastases from adenocarcinoma.
Anti-SS-A/Ro SS-B/La antibodies bind to neonatal rabbit cardiac cells and preferentially inhibit in vitro cardiac repolarization

The neonatal lupus syndrome is the most common cause of isolated congenital heart block. There is, at present, little information about the putative role of anti-SS-A/Ro SS-B/La antibodies in the pathogenesis of congenital heart block in the neonatal lupus syndrome. Using an in vitro experimental model, the present study was designed to test the hypothesis that IgG antibodies in the sera of anti-SS-A/Ro SS-B/La-positive mothers of infants with isolated congenital heart block bind to and affect the transmembrane action potential of rabbit cardiac tissue. The results demonstrate a preferential inhibition of membrane repolarization (ADP-50 and ADP-90) and staining of cardiac cells within the neonatal, in contrast to the adult, rabbit heart by sera and IgG-enriched fractions from anti-SS-A/Ro SS-B/La-positive individuals. The results of the electrophysiologic studies demonstrate a pathophysiologic role for the IgG fraction of anti-SS-A/Ro SS-B/La-positive maternal sera in inhibiting neonatal rabbit cardiac repolarization. It is possible that antibodies to similar determinants expressed on the cell membrane of cardiac-conducting cells also may play a pathophysiologic role in the development of idiopathic congenital heart block in humans.
The Nuremberg effect on contemporary international criminal justice

International conflicts have increased over the twentieth and twenty‐first centuries along with industrialization and economic globalization. In this paper I propose to analyze the process of international criminal justice at the International Military Tribunal and how the Nuremberg Trial continues to affect the international community’s attempt for justice of ethnic cleansing and genocide during the 1990s and currently with the establishment of the International Criminal Court. This paper explores the possible links between justice after the commission of crimes against humanity and genocide, including the prosecution of perpetrators, and the fulfillment of ideals of international criminal justice overall in the aftermath of international crimes.
Molecular modeling of particle reinforcement in elastomers: Effect of particle radius and volume fraction

Monte-Carlo simulations of the configurations of polymer chains in reinforced elastomers reveal extensive wrapping of the chains around particle clusters. The resulting increase in chain entanglement density leads to a 3.5 power law dependence of modulus on particle loading, in perfect agreement with experimental observation. Our model also gives a consistent molecular explanation of the Payne effect and the associated energy dissipation in strained reinforced elastomers.
Comments on Orphanides and Williams’ “Robust monetary policy”

Abstract Comments on the paper by Orphanides and Williams from the November 2006 Carnegie-Rochester conference.
Large-Scale Sequencing Library Production: An Adapter-Based Strategy

Abstract A significant bottleneck in large-scale DNA sequencing projects is the creation of high-quality random libraries suitable for sequencing. We have utilized an adaptor-based strategy and developed a simple protocol to reliably generate single-insert random subclone M13 libraries yielding uniform coverage and >10 3 clones per microgram of DNA. Of the resulting white plaques, 95% contained inserts,
Improving training impact through effective follow‐up: techniques and their application

Purpose – This paper aims to describe a variety of cost‐effective methods that employers can use to support training activities and promote the transfer of skills and knowledge to the workplace. These techniques work to positively impact the workplace environment through peer and supervisory support.Design/methodology/approach – The application of action plans, performance assessment, peer meetings, supervisory consultations, and technical support is illustrated in two case examples.Findings – Follow‐up activities resulted in improved transfer and had positive quantitative and qualitative effects on operations and firm performance.Practical implications – Billions of dollars are spent annually by organisations on employee training and management development. It is important that managers implement procedures that encourage transfer of learning in order to achieve greater training impact. The techniques discussed have wide application and significant effects on trainee motivation and workplace environment ...
An observer-based compensator for distributed delays

This paper presents an algorithm for compensating delays that are distributed between the sensor(s), controller and actuator(s) within a control loop. This observer-based algorithm is specially suited to compensation of network-induced delays in integrated communication and control systems. The robustness of the algorithm relative to plant model uncertainties has been examined.
Concentration of oxygen around capillaries in polygonal regions of supply

Abstract The steady-state diffusion of oxygen inside a disk, a hexagon, a square, and a triangle is studied theoretically and numerically. It is assumed that the oxygen emanates from a central capillary, and its consumption is spatially constant. A formula is derived that relates the radial pressure drops to the sum of products of oxygen consumption times the logarithm of the diffusion distances. These studies reveal that the spread of the radial oxygen pressure drops from the capillary to the boundary of the polygons is reduced by a factor of about ten when the angular diffusion coefficient is increased from zero to the value of the radial diffusion coefficient. The maximal and minimal radial oxygen pressure drops in the three polygonal regions for any constant values of oxygen consumption and diffusion coefficient are presented in graphs. The uncertainty of the capillary density inferred from experimental data is calculated.
On the dynamics of influence networks via reflected appraisal

In any modern society, individuals interact to form opinions on various topics, including economic, political, and social aspects. Opinions evolve as the result of the continuous exchange of information among individuals where interpersonal influences play the key role. The study of influence network evolution has wide applications in the field of social organization and social psychology. A compelling model is Friedkin's reflected appraisal model where each individual's self-appraisal is set equal to the relative control and power that the agent exerted over prior issue outcomes. Motivated by this empirical framework, we (i) present a rigorous mathematical formulation of the reflected appraisal influence network dynamics, (ii) study the equilibria and the convergence properties of the dynamical influence systems, and (iii) construct the social conditions leading to the emergence of single opinion leaders, clusters of leaders, or diffuse and democratic power structures. In particular, an appropriately-defined eigenvector centrality of the influence network is proved to determine each individual's social power and self-appraisal evolution, and then determine the opinion formulation of the whole network.
Death rates in the U.S. due to Krabbe disease and related leukodystrophy and lysosomal storage diseases

Leukodystrophies (LD) and lysosomal storage disorders (LSD) have generated increased interest recently as targets for newborn screening programs. Accurate epidemiological benchmarks are needed in the U.S. Age-specific mortality rates were estimated for Krabbe disease (KD) and nine related disorders. U.S. mortality records with E75.2 cause of death code during 1999-2004 were collected from 11 open record states. All E75.2 deaths in the United States were distributed into specific disease type based on proportions observed in these states. Yearly population sizes were obtained from the CDC and averaged. Mortality rates (per million individuals per year) by age group for the specific diseases were (for <5 or ≥5 years): Pelizaeus-Merzbacher (0.037/0.033); sudanophilic leukodystrophy (SLD) (0.037/0.004); Canavan (0.037/0.011), Alexander (0.147/0.022); Krabbe (0.994/0.007); metachromatic leukodystrophy (0.331/0.135); Fabry (0.000/0.124); Gaucher (0.221/0.073); Niemann-Pick (NP) (0.442/0.088); multiple sulfatase (0.000/0.004). This is the first report of mortality rates for the LD/LSD diseases in the U.S. Approximated birth prevalence rate for the early infantile Krabbe phenotype (onset 0-6 months) was based on the <5 year old mortality rate of one early infantile case per 244,000 births, which matches the 1 in 250,000 observed in the NYS newborn screening program as of 2011. It should be noted however that the NYS calculation refers only to the early infantile phenotype and does not include the majority of babies identified in the program with low GALC and two mutations who have remained clinically normal. It is presumed that most, if not all, will develop later onset forms of the disease, but this is by no means certain.
Using fossil spring deposits in the Death Valley region, USA to evaluate palaeoflowpaths†

Spring deposits reveal the timing and environment of past groundwater discharge. Herein, however, the potential for fossil spring deposits to infer water sources and palaeoflowpaths through trace elements and stable and radiogenic isotopes is examined. Past discharge (70 to 285 ka) in the Tecopa Basin in the Death Valley region of southeastern California is represented by tufa deposits, including mounds, pools, cemented ledges and rare calcite feeder veins. δ18O values indicate that spring discharge was a mixture of far-travelled (regional) water with a significant, and perhaps dominant contribution of local recharge on a nearby range front and alluvial pediment, rather than simply representing an elevated regional water table. δ13C values indicate regional water had a high TDS, whereas solute data imply low overall solute contents, consistent with dilution by a large component of local recharge. Radiogenic isotope data (U-series, 87Sr/86Sr) for tufa indicate that siliciclastic rocks (a regional aquitard) interacted with discharging water. To access this aquitard, regional flow was probably partitioned into a permeable north–south damage zone of a north–south range-bounding fault along the foot of the Resting Spring Range, which ultimately controlled the location of groundwater discharge. Existing models for modern discharge in the Tecopa Basin, by contrast, call upon westward interbasin flow in carbonate rocks from the Spring Mountains through the intervening (and nearly perpendicular) Nopah and Resting Spring Ranges. Understanding the controls on regional groundwater flow is critical in this and other arid regions where water is, by definition, a scarce resource. Thus, although it is a case study, this report highlights a fruitful approach to palaeohydrology that can be widely applied. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The search for the causes of breast and colon cancer

Epidemiological studies of breast and colon cancers implicate diet as a causative factor but the evidence is stronger for colon cancer, the occurrence of which may be reduced by diets with less animal fat and more fruit and vegetables.
The Application of Self-Determination Theory to Eating Disorders

In this article, the role of self-determination theory (SDT) is applied to eating disorders. SDT posits that individuals revolve around three specific innate psychological needs: competence, autonomy, and relatedness. For an individual to function at an optimal level of growth and integration to establish social development and personal well-being, all three needs must be met. The conclusion of this analysis is that general self-determination may create a buffer for women against the sociocultural pressures to maintain a thin “ideal body.” The level of self-determination and the type of motivation play an intricate role in how an individual copes with body dissatisfaction. We also include a section on the implications of this analysis for social work and mental health practitioners. As such, we explain training or intervention techniques that practitioners could use when treating clients with eating disorders.
Characterization of the DNA-binding properties and the transactivation activity of Schistosoma mansoni nuclear receptor fushi tarazu-factor 1α (SmFTZ-F1α)

A FTZ-F1-related orphan nuclear receptor SmFTZ-F1alpha was previously identified from Schistosoma mansoni. The deduced SmFTZ-F1alpha protein contains a highly conserved DNA binding domain (DBD, C domain), a less conserved ligand binding domain (LBD, E domain) and three highly variable regions, the N-terminal A/B domain (108 aa), a large hinge region (D domain, 1027 aa) and an F domain (220 aa). Herein, we characterize the DNA binding properties and the transactivation activity of SmFTZ-F1alpha. In in vitro assays, SmFTZ-F1alpha bound as a monomer to a response element (FF1RE: TCAAGGTCA) recognized by mammalian steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1), and to related sequences (p14: TTAAGGTCA and SmFF1a-2: CGAAGGTCA) derived from known schistosome gene promoters. Competition assays with p14 oligonucleotides containing a single mutation at each nucleotide position defined the optimum DNA sequence required for SmFTZ-F1alpha binding. The optimal consensus sequence for SmFTZ-F1alpha binding is TN(A/G)AGGTC(A/G) (N: any base). This sequence is similar but not identical to the SF-1 response element (SFRE) consensus sequence [(T/C)CAAGG(T/C)C(A/G)]. By performing yeast one-hybrid assays, the ability of SmFTZ-F1alpha to bind productively to a p14-derived 9-base pair sequence was demonstrated in vivo. The ability of the full-length SmFTZ-F1alpha to transactivate reporter gene expression was shown to be A/B domain-dependent in a yeast system. In addition, the hinge region contained an unexpected activation function (AF) domain, termed AF-3, while no transactivation activity was detected within the E/F domain. This AF-3 region (from aa 982 to aa 1110) revealed a strong autonomous transactivation activity, which was masked when it was present in the full-length SmFTZ-F1alpha. Taken together, our results suggest that SmFTZ-F1alpha possesses the characteristic DNA binding specificity of FTZ-F1 subfamily members and the capacity to transactivate a reporter gene.
The colorimetric estimation of α-d-galactosidase activity and some comparisons with β-d-galactosidase

Abstract A method for the colorimetric estimation α- d -galactosidase with a new chromogenic substrate is described. A tabulation of the enzymic activities of various tissues of the rat and human is given. The highest activity was noted in endocrine organs of the rat with α- d -galactosidase, whereas, the highest activity with β- d -galactosidase was in rat liver. The activity of α- and β- d -galactosidases is higher in the spleens and thyroids in female rats than in male rats, although the ratio of the two enzymes is constant in these tissues.
Laboratory Evaluation of Selected Chemicals as Antidesiccants for the Protection of the Entomogenous Nematode, Steinernema feltiae (Rhabditidae: Steinernematidae), Against Lymantria dispar (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)

The entomogenous nematode Steinernema feltiae is very sensitive to drying, which limits its usefulnessas an effective biological control agent. In the laboratory, materials were not only evaluated on their ability to retard evaporation, but on their biological activities against the host insect, Lymantria dispar (L.), as well as the nematode, S. feltiae Filipjev. Eighty-eight materials were tested for their ability to retard evaporation during a 19-h drying period. Sixty-seven materials were no more effective than water, while 21 materials were effective in retarding evaporation. Base oil, folicote, and sag 470 (at 1–10%); foam fighter F, glycerol, and klearol (at 2.5–10%); 2251 oil (at 5–10%); and several oils (at 10%) were effective antievaporants. While some of the materials were nontoxic to L. dispar larvae (folicote, sag 470, and glycerol), some showed moderate toxicity (mineral oil, Sunspray oil, and orchex Exxon), and others were extremely toxic (pyronyl oil and Savol oil). Under severe drying conditions, some of the materials had an adverse effect upon S. feltiae infective nemas (klearol, base oil, orchex Exxon, and orchex 796W); upon nema-progeny production (foam fighter F); or upon the host, the nema, and hema-progeny production (base oil and orchex 796W). In some cases, however, nema-progeny production was unaffected despite some (mineral oil) or high (klearol and orchex Exxon) host (=insect) mortality. Only folicote and, to a lesser extent, mineral oil appeared to have little adverse effect upon the host as well as the nematode parasite.
Effect of losses in micro-ring all-pass filters

We study the effects of waveguide and intensity insertion losses on the amplitude and phase responses of microring all-pass filters. For the cascaded microring filter, we discuss the combined effects of side coupling and losses. The switching from normal to chaotic mode in microrings is also investigated.
Language accent classification in American English

Abstract It is well known that speaker variability caused by accent is one factor that degrades performance of speech recognition algorithms. If knowledge of speaker accent can be estimated accurately, then a modified set of recognition models which addresses speaker accent could be employed to increase recognition accuracy. In this study, the problem of language accent classification in American English is considered. A database of foreign language accent is established that consists of words and phrases that are known to be sensitive to accent. Next, isolated word and phoneme based accent classification algorithms are developed. The feature set under consideration includes Mel-cepstrum coefficients and energy, and their first order differences. It is shown that as test utterance length increases, higher classification accuracy is achieved. Isolated word strings of 7–8 words uttered by the speaker results in an accent classification rate of 93% among four different language accents. A subjective listening test is also conducted in order to compare human performance with computer algorithm performance in accent discrimination. The results show that computer based accent classification consistently achieves superior performance over human listener responses for classification. It is shown, however, that some listeners are able to match algorithm performance for accent detection. Finally, an experimental study is performed to investigate the influence of foreign accent on speech recognition algorithms. It is shown that training separate models for each accent rather than using a single model for each word can improve recognition accuracy dramatically.
MAPPING FLUOROPHORE DISTRIBUTIONS IN THREE DIMENSIONS BY QUANTITATIVE MULTIPLE ANGLE-TOTAL INTERNAL REFLECTION FLUORESCENCE MICROSCOPY

The decay of evanescent field intensity beyond a dielectric interface depends upon beam incident angle, enabling the 3-d distribution of fluorophores to be deduced from total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM) images obtained at multiple incident angles. Instrumentation was constructed for computer-automated multiple angle-TIRFM (MA-TIRFM) using a right angle F2 glass prism (n(r) 1.632) to create the dielectric interface. A laser beam (488 nm) was attenuated by an acoustooptic modulator and directed onto a specified spot on the prism surface. Beam incident angle was set using three microstepper motors controlling two rotatable mirrors and a rotatable optical flat. TIRFM images were acquired by a cooled CCD camera in approximately 0.5 degree steps for >15 incident angles starting from the critical angle. For cell studies, cells were grown directly on the glass prisms (without refractive index-matching fluid) and positioned in the optical path. Images of the samples were acquired at multiple angles, and corrected for angle-dependent evanescent field intensity using "reference" images acquired with a fluorophore solution replacing the sample. A theory was developed to compute fluorophore z-distribution by inverse Laplace transform of angle-resolved intensity functions. The theory included analysis of multiple layers of different refractive index for cell studies, and the anisotropic emission from fluorophores near a dielectric interface. Instrument performance was validated by mapping the thickness of a film of dihexyloxacarbocyanine in DMSO/water (n(r) 1.463) between the F2 glass prism and a plano-convex silica lens (458 mm radius, n(r) 1.463); the MA-TIRFM map accurately reproduced the lens spherical surface. MA-TIRFM was used to compare with nanometer z-resolution the geometry of cell-substrate contact for BCECF-labeled 3T3 fibroblasts versus MDCK epithelial cells. These studies establish MA-TIRFM for measurement of submicroscopic distances between fluorescent probes and cell membranes.
Regulation of scytophycin accumulation in cultures of Scytonema ocellatum. I. Physical factors

Scytonema ocellatum (Cyanobacteria or Cyanophyta) produces macrolide antibiotics of the scytophycin family that are antifungal, cytostatic agents and act by disrupting actin microfilaments. Scytophycin accumulation paralleled vegetative growth. Tolytoxin continued to accumulate throughout the growth cycle, whereas 6-hydroxy-7-O-methylscytophycin E (HMSE) and 19-O-demethylscytophycin C (DMSC) reached plateau levels prior to cessation of growth, suggesting a logical biosynthetic pathway of DMSC → ? → HMSE → tolytoxin. A rapid decrease in scytophycin content observed in newly inoculated cultures suggests that the scytophycins are continuously metabolized. The optimal temperature for production was 25°C. Continuous illumination at an intensity of at least 25 μml photons m−2 s−1 was required for maximum yield. Growth and metabolite production were optimal in the pH range of 8.0 to 8.5.