The influence of teammates' shared mental models on team processes and performance was tested using 56 undergraduate dyads who "flew" a series of missions on a personal-computer-based flightcombat simulation. The authors both conceptually and empirically distinguished between teammates' task-and team-based mental models and indexed their convergence or "sharedness" using individually completed paired-comparisons matrices analyzed using a network-based algorithm. The results illustrated that both shared-team-and task-based mental models related positively to subsequent team process and performance. Furthermore, team processes fully mediated the relationship between mental model convergence and team effectiveness. Results are discussed in terms of the role of shared cognitions in team effectiveness and the applicability of different interventions designed to achieve such convergence.

Intimacy-anger and attachment 3 Abstract One hundred and twenty men referred for treatment for wife assault and forty demographic controls completed self-report questionnaires assessing attachment patterns, anger, jealousy, Borderline Personality Organization and trauma symptoms. This constellation, with the exception of attachment, has been found to represent a profile related significantly to frequency of both verbal and physical abuse. In the present study, attachment was found to correlate significantly with these other measures. A measure of secure attachment correlated significantly but negatively with the constellation measures. A measure of fearful attachment correlated significantly and positively.

Increased agricultural intensification has led to well-documented declines in the fauna and flora associated with intensive grasslands in the UK. We aimed to quantify the effectiveness of different field margin management strategies for putting bumblebee and butterfly biodiversity back into intensive grasslands. 2. Using four intensive livestock farms in south-west England, we manipulated conventional management practices (addition of inorganic fertilizer, cutting frequency and height, and aftermath grazing) to generate seven grass-based treatments along a gradient of decreasing management intensity. We also tested two more interventionist treatments which introduced sown components into the sward: (i) a cereal, grass and legume mix, and (ii) a diverse conservation mix with kale, mixed cereals, linseed and legumes. These crop mixtures were intended to provide forage and structural resources for pollinators but were not intended to have agronomic value as livestock feed. Using a replicated block design, we monitored bumblebee and butterfly responses in 27 plots (10 × 50 m) in each farm from 2003 to 2006. 3. Bumblebees were most abundant, species-rich and diverse in the sown treatments and virtually absent from the grass-based treatments. The diverse conservation mix treatment supported larger and more diverse bumblebee assemblages than the cereal, grass and legume mix treatment. The sown treatments, and the most extensively managed grass-based treatments, had the highest abundance, species richness and diversity of adult butterflies, whereas butterfly larvae were only found in the grass-based treatments. 4. Bumblebee and butterfly assemblage structure was driven by floral abundance, floral richness, the availability of nectar resources, and sward structure. Only vegetation cover was correlated with butterfly larval abundance. 5. Synthesis and applications . This study has identified management options in the margins of intensive grasslands which can enhance bumblebee and butterfly biodiversity. Extensification of conventional grass management by stopping fertilization, reducing cutting frequency and not grazing, benefits butterflies. However, to enhance bumblebees requires a more interventionist approach in the form of sowing flower-rich habitat. Both approaches are potentially suitable for adoption in agri-environment schemes in the UK and Europe.

Paavolainen, Leena, Keijo Hä kkinen, Ismo Hämä lä inen, Ari Nummela, and Heikki Rusko. Explosivestrength training improves 5-km running time by improving running economy and muscle power. J. Appl. Physiol. 86(5): 1527-1533, 1999.-To investigate the effects of simultaneous explosive-strength and endurance training on physical performance characteristics, 10 experimental (E) and 8 control (C) endurance athletes trained for 9 wk. The total training volume was kept the same in both groups, but 32% of training in E and 3% in C was replaced by explosive-type strength training. A 5-km time trial (5K), running economy (RE), maximal 20-m speed (V 20 m ), and 5-jump (5J) tests were measured on a track. Maximal anaerobic (MART) and aerobic treadmill running tests were used to determine maximal velocity in the MART (V MART ) and maximal oxygen uptake (V O 2 max ). The 5K time, RE, and V MART improved (P Ͻ 0.05) in E, but no changes were observed in C. V 20 m and 5J increased in E (P Ͻ 0.01) and decreased in C (P Ͻ 0.05). V O 2 max increased in C (P Ͻ 0.05), but no changes were observed in E. In the pooled data, the changes in the 5K velocity during 9 wk of training correlated (P Ͻ 0.05) with the changes in RE [O 2 uptake (r ϭ Ϫ0.54)] and V MART (r ϭ 0.55). In conclusion, the present simultaneous explosive-strength and endurance training improved the 5K time in well-trained endurance athletes without changes in their V O 2 max . This improvement was due to improved neuromuscular characteristics that were transferred into improved V MART and running economy. distance running; neuromuscular characteristics; maximal oxygen uptake; maximal anaerobic treadmill running; endurance athletes ENDURANCE TRAINING ENHANCES the function of the cardiorespiratory system and the oxidative capacity and glycogen stores of the muscles (e.g., Refs. 1,. Heavyresistance strength training results in neural and muscle hypertrophic adaptations that are known to be primarily responsible for improved strength performance (e.g., Refs. 13,. A specific type of strength training, explosive-strength training, may lead to specific neural adaptations, such as the increased rate of activation of the motor units, whereas muscle hypertrophy remains much smaller than during typical heavyresistance strength training .

In this study, we demonstrate the versatility of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOFMS) protein profiling for the species differentiation of a diverse suite of Bacillus spores. MALDI-TOFMS protein profiles of 11 different strains of Bacillus spores, encompassing nine different species, were evaluated. Bacillus species selected for MALDI-TOFMS analysis represented the sporeforming bacterial diversity of typical class 100K clean room spacecraft assembly facilities. A one-step sample treatment and MALDI-TOFMS preparation were used to minimize the sample preparation time. A library of MALDI-TOFMS spectra was created from these nine Bacillus species, the most diverse protein profiling study of the genus reported to date. Linear correlation analysis was used to successfully differentiate the MALDI-TOFMS protein profiles from all strains evaluated in this study. The MALDI-TOFMS protein profiles were compared with 16S rDNA sequences for their bacterial systematics and molecular phylogenetic affiliations. The MALDI-TOFMS profiles were found to be complementary to the 16S rDNA analysis. Proteomic studies of Bacillus subtilis 168 were pursued to identify proteins represented by the biomarker peaks in the MALDI-TOFMS spectrum. Four small, acid-soluble proteins (A, B, C, and D), one DNA binding protein, hypothetical protein ymf J, and four proteins associated with the spore coat and spore coat formation (coat JB, coat F, coat T, and spoIVA) were identified. The ability to visualize higher-molecular-mass coat proteins (10 to 25 kDa) as well as smaller proteins (<10 kDa) with MALDI-TOFMS profiling is critical for the complete and effective species differentiation of the Bacillus genus.

Fermilab is developing and investigating different high-field magnet designs for present and future accelerators. The magnet R&D program was focused on the 10-12 T accelerator magnets based on Nb 3 Sn superconductor and explored both basic magnet technologies for brittle superconductors-wind-and-react and react-and-wind. Magnet design studies in support of LHC upgrades and VLHC are being performed. A series of 1-m long single-bore models of cos-theta Nb 3 Sn dipoles based on wind-andreact technique was fabricated and tested. Three 1-m long flat racetracks and the common coil dipole model, based on a singlelayer coil and wide reacted Nb 3 Sn cable, have also been fabricated and tested. Extensive theoretical studies of magnetic instabilities in Nb3Sn strands, cable and magnet were performed which led to successful 10 T dipole model. This paper presents the details of the Fermilab's high field accelerator magnet program, reports its status and major results, and formulates the program next steps.

Theory at both the micro and macro level predicts that investments in superior human capital generate better firm-level performance. However, human capital takes time and money to develop or acquire, which potentially offsets its positive benefits. Indeed, extant tests appear equivocal regarding its impact. To clarify what is known, we meta-analyzed effects drawn from 66 studies of the human capital-firm performance relationship and investigated 3 moderators suggested by resource-based theory. We found that human capital relates strongly to performance, especially when the human capital in question is not readily tradable in labor markets and when researchers use operational performance measures that are not subject to profit appropriation. Our results suggest that managers should invest in programs that increase and retain firm-specific human capital.

Capparis decidua (Family, Capparidaceae) is commonly known as ‘Kair’. It is distributed throughout the arid regions of India and other countries. Kair is a caducous plant, so in the foliage condition mainly stem and fruits are common. It is also known as Capparis aphylla. Since the plant is xerophytic, it is generally found in dessert area and is highly draught resistant plant which can survive for long. Tribal people prepare pickle from the fruits of Kair. Some of the communities use Kair fruits as vegetables and food additives. The plant is used traditionally as anti-inflammatory, laxative, anti-diabetic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, astringent, digestive, diaphoretic and anodyne. It is reported to possess beneficial effects in various ailments, like rheumatism, asthma, diabetes, liver disorders, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension and microbial infections. Studies have revealed the presence of various phytoconstituents especially spermidine alkaloids, glucosinolates and other glyc...

The "think manager-think male" (TMTM) association underlies many gender inequalities in the workplace. However, research into the "glass cliff" has demonstrated that the suitability of male and female managers varies as a function of company performance such that in times of poor performance people may "think female" . Three studies examined gender and managerial stereotypes in the context of companies that are doing well or doing badly. Study 1 reproduced TMTM associations for descriptions of managers of successful companies but demonstrated a reversal for managers of unsuccessful companies. Study 2 examined the prescriptive nature of these stereotypes. No TMTM relationship was found for ideal managers of successful companies, but ideal managers of unsuccessful companies were associated with the female stereotype. Study 3 suggested that women may be favored in times of poor performance, not because they are expected to improve the situation, but because they are seen to be good people managers and can take the blame for organizational failure. Together, the studies illustrate the importance of context as a moderator of the TMTM association. Practical and theoretical implications for gender discrimination in the workplace are discussed.

The few studies that have investigated emotion labeling in children with specific language impairment (SLI) have generally focused on global identification performances and appear contradictory. The current study is a fine-grained examination of how children with SLI and typical peers differ in the accuracy of their emotional lexicon use. Children underwent a free labeling task of five basic emotions expressed by still face photographs. Results revealed that children with SLI were less accurate in their label use than typical children. However, pattern of confusions between the two groups differed only by a confusion between sadness and anger displayed by the SLI group. It is argued that this emotion labeling deficiency may rely on semantic fields overlap.

The authors used meta-analytic procedures to examine the relationship between specified training design and evaluation features and the effectiveness of training in organizations. Results of the meta-analysis revealed training effectiveness sample-weighted mean ds of 0.60 (k ϭ 15, N ϭ 936) for reaction criteria, 0.63 (k ϭ 234, N ϭ 15,014) for learning criteria, 0.62 (k ϭ 122, N ϭ 15,627) for behavioral criteria, and 0.62 (k ϭ 26, N ϭ 1,748) for results criteria. These results suggest a medium to large effect size for organizational training. In addition, the training method used, the skill or task characteristic trained, and the choice of evaluation criteria were related to the effectiveness of training programs. Limitations of the study along with suggestions for future research are discussed.

1. Increased intensification in agricultural grasslands has led to well-documented declines in the associated flora. Manipulation of field margins for biodiversity enhancement in arable systems has been extensively investigated. However, there is a paucity of corresponding long-term research within intensively managed grasslands. 2. We investigated a combination of establishment and management methods to enhance botanical diversity of newly established field margins in intensively managed grasslands. Three methods of field margin establishment were investigated including fencing, natural regeneration by rotavation, or seeding with a wildflower mixture. Subsequent sward management by either grazing or mowing was tested at three margin widths. Success of establishment was addressed in terms of persistence of species richness, plant community composition and incidence of noxious weeds. 3. Seeding with a wildflower mixture was the most successful establishment method to enhance plant species richness and this effect persisted throughout the 7 years of the experiment (x = 16AE4 ± 0AE43 SE plant species richness per 1 · 3 m 2 quadrat). Mown (x = 6AE01 ± 0AE30 SE) and rotavated (x = 9AE7 ± 0AE34 SE) treatments contained significantly fewer plant species; grazed controls contained 9AE83 ± 0AE24 species. 4. Grazing led to a significant, but modest increase in species richness in fenced and rotavated plots compared to the mowing treatment, but had no effect in seeded plots. Grazing also led to an increased frequency and cover of competitive grasses in the seeded treatment. 5. Although margin width was not found to significantly influence species richness, there was increased herb cover and reduced abundance of noxious weeds in the wider seeded margins. 6. Synthesis and applications. The choice of establishment method and subsequent management of grassland field margins significantly affected their conservation value. The botanical diversity of margins within intensively managed pasture can be enhanced by sowing wildflower seed mixtures. This diversity can be maintained over time through appropriate management, i.e. either the reduction of high grazing pressure by seasonal fencing, or annual mowing. Management approaches that involve minimal change are currently adopted in many agri-environment schemes (such as fencing and ⁄ or the cessation of nutrient inputs) but did not produce swards of conservation value in this study.

Background We predicted that repeated interviewing would improve the informativeness of children with intellectual disabilities who were questioned in criminal investigations. Materials The chronological ages of the 19 children, involved in 20 cases, ranged between 4.7 and 18 years (M = 10.3 years) at the time of the first alleged abuse. Method The utterances used by interviewers to elicit information in both initial and later interviews were examined. We then assessed the substantive information provided in both interviews and compared information elicited using focused questions in the initial interview with responses about the same topic elicited using open questions in the second interview. Results The hypothesis was supported: over 80% of the information reported in the repeated interviews was about completely new topics or was new information elaborating upon previously discussed topics. However, because the interviewing techniques were so poor in both first and second interviews, information provided in the repeated interviews may have been contaminated irrespective of the children's capacities. Conclusion When children with intellectual disabilities are given a second chance to provide information about their abuse, they can further develop the information that they report and even provide entirely new information about their experiences. When interviewers are not specially trained in how to interview children with intellectual disabilities, we cannot assume that repeated interviews provide reliable and accurate information, however.

The large tropical lucinid clam Codakia orbicularis has a symbiotic relationship with intracellular, sulfide-oxidizing chemoautotrophic bacteria. The respiration strategies utilized by the symbiont were explored using integrative techniques on mechanically purified symbionts and intact clam-symbiont associations along with habitat analysis. Previous work on a related symbiont species found in the host lucinid Lucinoma aequizonata showed that the symbionts obligately used nitrate as an electron acceptor, even under oxygenated conditions. In contrast, the symbionts of C. orbicularis use oxygen as the primary electron acceptor while evidence for nitrate respiration was lacking. Direct measurements obtained by using microelectrodes in purified symbiont suspensions showed that the symbionts consumed oxygen; this intracellular respiration was confirmed by using the redox dye CTC (5-cyano-2,3-ditolyl tetrazolium chloride). In the few intact chemosymbioses tested in previous studies, hydrog...

The pathogenic oomycete Aphanomyces invadans is the primary etiological agent in ulcerative mycosis, an ulcerative skin disease caused by a fungus-like agent of wild and cultured fish. We developed sensitive PCR and fluorescent peptide nucleic acid in situ hybridization (FISH) assays to detect A. invadans. Laboratory-challenged killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus) were first tested to optimize and validate the assays. Skin ulcers of Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus) from populations found in the Pamlico and Neuse River estuaries in North Carolina were then surveyed. Results from both assays indicated that all of the lesioned menhaden (n = 50) collected in September 2004 were positive for A. invadans. Neither the FISH assay nor the PCR assay cross-reacted with other closely related oomycetes. These results provided strong evidence that A. invadans is the primary oomycete pathogen in ulcerative mycosis and demonstrated the utility of the assays. The FISH assay is the first molecula...

The opiate antagonist naloxone was effective in reducing self-abusive behavior in two mentally retarded clients with an extensive history of such behavior. Three doses of naloxone (0.1, 0.2, 0.4 rag) were compared with a vehicle solution in a double-blind, crossover design. Naloxone greatly attenuated self-abusive episodes in one client and eliminated them entirely in the second client. In addition, use of self-restraining behavior by one client was reduced. The findings suggested that some clients with self-injurious behavior may have disturbances of the endogenous opiate system. Maintenance of self-abuse by tonically elevated pain threshold and~or by the putative addictive characteristics of such behavior was discussed.

Experimental performance evaluation of heat pump-based steam supply system T Kaida, I Sakuraba, K Hashimoto et al. -Fluid-Structure interaction analysis and performance evaluation of a membrane blade M. Saeedi, R. Wüchner and K.-U. Bletzinger -Optimization and performance evaluation for nutrient removal from palm oil mill effluent wastewater using microalgae Raheek I Ibrahim, Z H Wong and A W Mohammad -This content was downloaded from IP address 168.151.1.23 on 24/09

Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis of a soil microbial community was coupled with 13C isotope tracer analysis to measure the community’s response to addition of 35 μg of [13C]toluene ml of soil solution−1. After 119 h of incubation with toluene, 96% of the incorporated 13C was detected in only 16 of the total 59 PLFAs (27%) extracted from the soil. Of the total 13C-enriched PLFAs, 85% were identical to the PLFAs contained in a toluene-metabolizing bacterium isolated from the same soil. In contrast, the majority of the soil PLFAs (91%) became labeled when the same soil was incubated with [13C]glucose. Our study showed that coupling 13C tracer analysis with PLFA analysis is an effective technique for distinguishing a specific microbial population involved in metabolism of a labeled substrate in complex environments such as soil.

We introduce length-sensing and control schemes for the dual-recycled cavity-enhanced Michelson interferometer configuration proposed for the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory ͑LIGO͒. We discuss the principles of this scheme and show methods that allow sensing and control signals to be derived. Experimental verification was carried out in three benchtop experiments that are introduced. We present the implications of the results from these experiments for Advanced LIGO and other future interferometric gravitational-wave detectors.

A depth-enhanced three-dimensional integral imaging system with electrically variable image planes is proposed. For implementing the variable image planes, polymer-dispersed liquid-crystal (PDLC) films and a projector are adopted as a new display system in the integral imaging. Since the transparencies of PDLC films are electrically controllable, we can make each film diffuse the projected light successively with a different depth from the lens array. As a result, the proposed method enables control of the location of image planes electrically and enhances the depth. The principle of the proposed method is described, and experimental results are also presented.

Epoxidized natural rubber–alumina nanoparticle composites were prepared by melt compounding with an internal mixer for a constant filler loading of 10 phr. Mixer parameters such as the mixing temperature, mixing time, and rotor speed were screened and optimized with response surface methodology to maximize the impact strength. The parameters were selected as three independent variables and the impact strength (J/m) was selected as the response in a screening factor study. The mixing temperature and its interaction terms were identified as insignificant factors with a P value greater than 0.0500. The optimum calculated values of the tested variables (rotor speed and mixing time) for the maximum impact strength were found to be a rotor speed of 60 rpm and a mixing time of 6 min with a predicted impact strength of 208.88 J/m. These predicted optimum parameters were tested in real experiments. The final impact strength was found to be close to the predicted value of 215.84 J/m, with only a 3.33% deviation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010

Cadmium sulfide thin films were prepared by chemical bath on glass substrates at 80°C. CdS was Er-doped during the growth process by adding water-diluted Er͑NO 3 ͒ 3 3·H 2 O to the CdS aqueous growing solution. The relative volume of the doping solution was varied in order to obtain different doping levels. The crystalline structure of CdS:Er films was cubic zinc blende for all the doped layers prepared. The ͑111͒ interplanar distance has an irregular variation with the Er doping level. Consequently, the band gap energy ͑E g ͒ firstly increases and afterward diminishes becoming, at last, approximately constant at around E g = 2.37 eV. For higher doping levels, in the as-grown films, dark electrical conductivity ͑͒ values reach 1.8ϫ 10 −2 ⍀ −1 cm −1 at room temperature. The logarithm of vs 1 / kT plot, where k is Boltzmann's constant and T the absolute temperature, indicates an effective doping of CdS as a result of the Er introduction into the lattice of the material. Hall effect measurements reveal a n-type doping with 2.8ϫ 10 19 cm −3 as maximum carrier density.

When Campylobacter jejuni NCTC 11351 was grown microaerobically in rich medium at 39°C, entry into stationary phase was followed by a rapid decline in viable numbers to leave a residual population of 1% of the maximum number or less. Loss of viability was preceded by sublethal injury, which was seen as a loss of the ability to grow on media containing 0.1% sodium deoxycholate or 1% sodium chloride. Resistance of cells to mild heat stress (50°C) or aeration was greatest in exponential phase and declined during early stationary phase. These results show that C. jejuni does not mount the normal phenotypic stationary-phase response which results in enhanced stress resistance. This conclusion is consistent with the absence of rpoS homologues in the recently reported genome sequence of this species and their probable absence from strain NCTC 11351. During prolonged incubation of C. jejuni NCTC 11351 in stationary phase, an unusual pattern of decreasing and increasing heat resistance was observed that coincided with fluctuations in the viable count. During stationary phase of Campylobacter coli UA585, nonmotile variants and those with impaired ability to form coccoid cells were isolated at high frequency. Taken together, these observations suggest that stationary-phase cultures of campylobacters are dynamic populations and that this may be a strategy to promote survival in at least some strains. Investigation of two spontaneously arising variants (NM3 and SC4) of C. coli UA585 showed that a reduced ability to form coccoid cells did not affect survival under nongrowth conditions.

We developed a staff management system for maintaining treatment gains achieved on a specialized continence unit located in a geriatric nursing home. Geriatric assistants learned to use a prompted voiding procedure to maintain improved dryness for 4 elderly residents. The staff management system induded self-monitoring and recording of prompted voiding activities and supervisory monitoring and feedback based on group performance of these activities. Results show that the system was effective in maintaining prompted voiding activities with corresponding maintenance of improved patient continence. However, a gradual decline in staff performance was noted 4 to 5 months after the initiation of the system. During a subsequent phase of the study, provision of individual feedback restored staff performance to previous levels. Results are discussed in relation to the practicality of prompted voiding interventions in nursing home environments and the applicability of staff management systems in this setting.

The pervaporation separation of water-isopropanol mixtures was carried out using carboxymethylated poly(vinyl alcohol) (CMPVA) composite membranes. Carboxymethylated PVA (CMPVA) was synthesized by reacting PVA with various concentrations of monochloroacetic acid. Substitution efficiency of the CMPVA ranged from 12-32%. The cross-sectional structure of the composite membrane for pervaporation was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) exhibiting a 20-m active skin layer. Glass transition temperature of the CMPVA was in the range of 74 -84°C, and decreased with increasing substitution efficiency. Degree of swelling and permeation flux for water-isopropanol in pervaporation increased with the substitution degree of carboxymethylation. CMPVA composite membrane, having 16% substitution efficiency, showed the following pervaporation performance; permeation flux of 831 g/m 2 h and separation factor of 362 measured at 80°C and 85 wt % feed isopropanol concentration.

Background: Badminton is racquet sport played using racquets to hit a shuttlecock across a net. The important factors for badminton players are muscle strength, muscular endurance, power, speed, agility, flexibility, balance and coordination. The core muscles strength help to improve muscle coordinator between upper and lower extremities as well as reducing injury risk and improving performance. Agility is required in required in badminton as it is characterized by changing actions of short period and high or intensity coupled with a short resting time. As core strength and agility has an equal importance among the players which has an impact on the players performance. Aim: To find out the correlation of core strength and agility in badminton players. Method: A total of 30 sub elite badminton players were selected considering their no. of hours of playing badminton daily and no. of years of playing badminton. The players were evaluated for the core strength testventral, left lateral, right lateral, and dorsal and illionis agility test. The relation between the core strength and agility were evaluated by correlation analysis. The individual core strength test was correlated with the illionis agility test. Results: The result showed the correlation of core strength and agility. The result showed that there is a perfect negative correlation between core strength and agility in relation to time as the r values of ventral core strength test, left and right lateral core strength test and dorsal core strength test with agility are-0.64,-0.67,-0.67, and-0.58 respectively. Conclusion: This study suggests that there is a correlation seen between the core strength and agility in badminton players.

The incorporation of Te into the crystal lattice, when it is used as an n-type dopant for GaAs grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy, is studied. For this purpose, several growth temperatures, total pressures, growth rates, and substrate misorientations have been analyzed, from which it is concluded that depending on the substrate misorientation and total pressure used, the Te behaves like a volatile dopant or a nonvolatile dopant as result of the enhancement or minimization of its adsorption onto the growth surface.

The acid-base indicator properties of aqueous and ethanol extracts from calyces of H. sabdariffa (Zobo) and a dye obtained from the ripe fruits of Basella alba (Indian spinach), two local plants, were investigated. A purple coloured dye obtained from the ripe fruits of Basella alba showed a λ max at 580nm, absorptivity of 0.2269 and was found to be photochemically unstable. A deep red coloured dye obtained from aqueous and ethanol extracts of H. sabdariffa had λ max of 520nm and 540nm and absorptivities of 0.1909 and 0.1187 respectively. The peaks are associated with n→Л* transitions. In strong acid/strong base titrations using the dyes as indicators, the end-points obtained agreed well with those obtained using conventional indicators. The dyes were found not suitable for weak acid/weak base titrations. The K a of the purple dye from Basella alba was of the order of 10-5 while that of the red dye from H. sabdariffa was of the order of 10-6. @JASEM

2-O-␤-Mannosylglycerate, a solute that accumulates in some (hyper)thermophilic organisms, was purified from Pyrococcus furiosus cells, and its effect on enzyme stabilization in vitro was assessed. Enzymes from hyperthermophilic, thermophilic, and mesophilic sources were examined. The thermostabilities of alcohol dehydrogenases from P. furiosus and Bacillus stearothermophilus and of glutamate dehydrogenases from Thermotoga maritima and Clostridium difficile were improved to a significant extent when enzyme solutions were incubated at supraoptimal temperatures in the presence of 2-O-␤-mannosylglycerate, but no effect on the thermostability of glutamate dehydrogenase from P. furiosus was detected. On the other hand, there was a remarkable effect on the thermal stabilities of rabbit muscle lactate dehydrogenase, baker's yeast alcohol dehydrogenase, and bovine liver glutamate dehydrogenase, which were used as model systems to evaluate stabilization of enzymes of mesophilic origin. For all of the enzymes examined and at the highest temperatures tested, 2-O-␤-mannosylglycerate was a better thermoprotectant than trehalose. The stabilizing effect exerted by 2-O-␤-mannosylglycerate on enzymes suggests a role for this compound as a protein thermostabilizer under physiological conditions. 2-O-␤-Mannosylglycerate was also effective in the protection of enzymes against stress imposed by freeze-drying, with its protecting effect being similar to or better than that exerted by trehalose. The data show 2-O-␤-mannosylglycerate to be a potential enzyme stabilizer in biotechnological applications.

Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), used in total joint replacement implants, undergoes oxidative degradation due to gamma radiation sterilization and to exposure to oxidizing agents in the body environment. UHMWPE components also experience large stresses both on and near the articulating surface. It is hypothesized that there is a causal relationship between chemical degradation and mechanical loading of UHMWPE joint components. This report describes the development of an in vitro test to examine the combined effects of chemical environment and cyclic loading history on the chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of UHMWPE. The test apparatus consists of modular load trains, in which strings of UHMWPE test specimens can be subjected to cyclic tensile and compression load ranges, while being exposed to either control or degrading environments. Following cyclic loading for specified time intervals, the specimens can be statically loaded to determine the effect of cyclic loading and environment on the monotonic tensile and compressive stress-strain behavior of UHMWPE. To determine the appropriate control and degrading environments, gamma radiation sterilized UHMWPE specimens were maintained (unloaded) for up to 6 months in aqueous environments of distilled water and three concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (0.01, 0.1, and 1.0%) in distilled water at 37 "C. Specimens were evaluated with depth from the surface for changes in density. Infrared spectroscopy (IR) analysis was conducted on selected surface sections. No significant changes in density or surface IR spectra occurred for specimens in distilled water as compared with the UHMWPE in the initial radiation sterilized condition. Specimens exposed to hydrogen peroxide solutions demonstrated changes in density and IR spectra consistent with oxidative degradation and comparable to the changes previously observed on retrieved UHMWPE components. Based on these results, distilled water was selected for the control environment. A 0.5% hydrogen peroxide solution was selected for the test environment, to produce moderate changes at a rate compatible with the maximum 12-month time period of the experiment.

Many changes occur in the biochemical composition of microalgae in response to stress conditions. In the present study, two nitrogen-stressed Chlorella minutissima strains (MACC 360 and 452) were placed in media containing a range of nitrogen concentrations (7-700 mg L −1 N). Biomass, chlorophyll a and b, carotenoid, protein and lipid concentrations were monitored over 15 days. There was lower biomass accumulation in nitrogen-deficient treatments while lipid yields increased to 40-46% DW in response to nitrogen deficiency. Chlorophyll concentrations initially recovered in response to the nitrogen spike with maximum concentrations recorded on days 6-8 and decreased thereafter as nitrogen became limiting. In comparison, proteins recovered faster with maximum concentrations recorded on day 4. Carotenoid concentrations did not increase in response to the nitrogen spike.

Merera, C., Abebe, G., Sebsibe, A. and Goetsch, AL 2010. Effects and interactions of origin of sheep in Ethiopia (Highland vs Lowland areas), feeding and lengths of rest and feeding on harvest measures. J. Appl. Anim. Res., 37: 33–42. Yearling sheep from ...

Multimedia bridges the gap between the teaching and learning processes in the Physics classroom by the fruitful realisation of the curricular objectives. The study purported to develop a Teacher-Assisted Multimedia Instructional Package in Physics and to test its effectiveness in augmenting Science Learning Interest of Secondary School Students of Kerala. Further, this effectiveness was to be compared with that of the Activity Oriented Method of Instruction. The Quasi Experimental Method with the Pre-Test Post-Test Non Equivalent Groups Design was found to be suitable for the study. The Teacher-Assisted Multimedia Instructional Package and the Activity Oriented Method of Instruction were the independent variables while Science Learning Interest was the dependent variable of the study. The experiment was conducted on a sample of 400 Secondary School Students of Kerala with 200 each in the Experimental and Control Groups. The results of the study showed that the TeacherAssisted Multim...

Physical activity modulates inflammation and immune response in both normal and pathologic conditions. We investigated whether regular and moderate exercise before the induction of experimental sepsis reduces the risk of lung and distal organ injury and survival. One hundred twenty-four BALB/c mice were randomly assigned to two groups: sedentary (S) and trained (T). Animals in T group ran on a motorized treadmill, at moderate intensity, 5% grade, 30 min/day, 3 times a week for 8 wk. Cardiac adaptation to exercise was evaluated using echocardiography. Systolic volume and left ventricular mass were increased in T compared with S group. Both T and S groups were further randomized either to sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture surgery (CLP) or sham operation (control). After 24 h, lung mechanics and histology, the degree of cell apoptosis in lung, heart, kidney, liver, and small intestine villi, and interleukin (IL)-6, KC (IL-8 murine functional homolog), IL-1β, IL-10, and numb...

Data are lacking regarding regional morphological changes among women after prolonged physical training. This study employed dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to assess changes in whole body and regional (i.e., trunk, legs, arms) fat mass, lean mass, and bone mineral content body composition adaptations in 31 healthy women pre-, mid-, and post-6 mo of periodized physical training. These results were compared with those of 1) a control group of women who had not undergone the training program and were assessed pre- and post-6 mo and 2) a group of 18 men that was tested only once. Additionally, magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess changes in muscle morphology of the thigh in a subset of 11 members of the training group. Physical training consisted of a combination of aerobic and resistance exercise in which the subjects engaged for 5 days/wk for 24 wk. Overall, the training group experienced a 2.2% decrease, a 10% decrease, and a 2.2% increase for body mass, fat mass, and soft...

The current study presents a method for assessing the relative effects of attention and escape on noncompliance in preschoolers. Attention and escape conditions were alternated in a multielement design, and a contingency reversal procedure, in which one test condition served as a control for the other, was used to demonstrate control. For all 3 participants, noncompliance was maintained, at least in part, by social attention. Functional analyses of noncompliance such as the one described here may be valuable for developing function-based treatments.

In situations where the accumulation of internal heat limits physical performance, enhanced heat extraction from the body should improve performance capacity. The combined application of local subatmospheric pressure (35–45 mmHg) to an entire hand (to increase blood volume) and a heat sink (18–22°C) to the palmar surface were used to draw heat out of the circulating blood. Subjects walked uphill (5.63 km/h) on a treadmill in a 40°C environment. Slopes of the treadmill were held constant during paired experimental trials (with and without the device). Heat extraction attenuated the rate of esophageal temperature rise during exercise (2.1 ± 0.4° and 2.9 ± 0.5°C/h, mean ± SE, with and without the device, respectively; n = 8) and increased exercise duration (46.1 ± 3.4 and 32.3 ± 1.7 min with and without the device, respectively; n = 18). Hand cooling alone had little effect on exercise duration (34.1 ± 3.0, 38.0 ± 3.5, and 57.0 ± 6.4 min, for control, cooling only, and cooling, and sub...

Transmittance spectra of four gaseous hydrocarbons were measured by using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The analyzed substances are propane, n-butane, ethanol, and iso-octane (2,2,4-trimethyl-pentane). Mixtures of hydrocarbons and nitrogen were prepared and analyzed in an optical cell between 298 and 473 K at pressures up to 1800 kPa. Molecule specific absorption cross sections were calculated for different temperatures and pressures that are relevant for technical absorption measurements. Dependences of the spectral absorption cross sections, as well as the integrated absorption cross sections on temperature and pressure, were investigated.

As an alternative to petroleum-based polyol, hydroxyl containing material was prepared from linseed oil for polyurethane synthesis. Hexamethylene di-isocyanate (HMDI) and/or 4, 4 0-methylene diphenyl di-isocyanate (MDI) were used as isocyanate source. The polymerization reaction was carried out without catalyst. Polymer films were prepared by casting-evaporation technique. The MDI/ HMDI-based polyurethane and its films had higher T g and better thermal property than that of the HMDI-based one because of the existence of benzene ring in the polymer chain. Static water contact angle was determined to be 74 and 77.5 for HMDI and MDI/HMDI-based films, respectively. Water adsorption was found to be around 2.6-3.6% for both films. In vitro degradation of polyurethanes in phosphate buffered saline at 37 C was investigated by gravimetric method. Fourier transform infrared spectros-copy and scanning electron microscopy were used for confirmation of degradation on the polymer surface. The degradation rate of the HMDI-based polyurethane film was found higher than that of the MDI/HMDI-based film. Both the direct contact method and the MMT test were applied for determination of cytotoxicity of polymer films, and the polyurethane films investigated here was not cytotoxic. Silver-containing films were prepared using Biocera A V R as filler and were screened for their antibacterial performance against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and/or Bacillus subtilis. The films prepared with and without Biocera A V R exhibited antibacterial activity.

This paper presents a voltage sag compensator, which uses a flywheel energy storage system with superconducting magnetic axial thrust bearing (SMB) and a permanent magnet radial bearing (PMB). The SMB was built with Nd-Fe-B magnet and YBCO superconducting blocks, refrigerated with liquid Nitrogen. The magnets are assembled with magnetic flux shapers in order to increase the levitation force and the stiffness. The radial PMB is used to positioning the vertically arranged switched reluctance machine (SRM) used as motor/generator. Simulations of the power electronics and SRM show that the system can work up to 30,000 rpm supplying the required energy during disturbances.

We show that by measuring the separation between the Stokes and anti-Stokes peaks excited by two different laser lines we obtain a very precise determination of absolute phonon energies. The method is useful for measuring small changes of these energies with strain, temperature, laser power, etc. It doubles the changes and avoids the necessity of using the reference lines in the Raman spectra. The method can be applied for the determination of phonon deformation potentials, for the characterization of strained heteroepitaxial layers, and for micro-Raman analysis of strain in silicon integrated circuits. We give examples of phonon shifts in Si, Ge, GaAs, InAs, and GaP as a function of applied biaxial strain, laser power, and temperature.