GELYMAC: a Macintosh application for calculating DNA fragment size from gel electrophoresis migration data

A program called GELYMAC takes data on the distances migrated by DNA fragments in a one-dimensional electrophoretic gel and, using a cubic-spline best-fit of marker fragment distance migrated versus molecular size, calculates the molecular sizes of the fragments. Written in the Rascal (Real-time Pascal) programming language, the program runs on the Macintosh family of microcomputers. Rapid entry of marker and experimental fragment migration data is afforded using a scroll bar system adjacent to a graphic representation of a gel. Output includes tabular listing of the data, graphic cartoons of the gel, and the fragment locations and molecular sizes for individual gel lanes, and the calibration curve used in data computations.     

Evaluating dynamic performance: The influence of salient Gestalt characteristics on performance ratings.

It is well recognized that performance changes over time. However, the effect of these changes on overall assessments of performance is largely unknown. In a laboratory experiment, we examined the influence of salient Gestalt characteristics of a dynamic performance profile on supervisory ratings. We manipulated performance trend (flat, linear-improving, linear-deteriorating, U-shaped, and ∩-shaped), performance variation (small, large), and performance mean (negative, zero, positive) within subjects and display format (graphic, tabular) between subjects. Participants received and evaluated information about the weekly performance of different employees over a simulated 26-week period. Results showed strong main effects on performance ratings of both performance mean and performance trend, as well as interactions with display format. Theoretical and practical implications of the results are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Construction Robot Path-Planning for Earthwork Operations

In developing an intelligent mobile construction robot, a navigation system that can provide an effective and efficient path-planning algorithm is a very important element. The purpose of a path-planning method for a mobile construction robot is to find a continuous collision-free path from the initial position of the construction robot to its target position. This paper presents an improved Bug-based algorithm, called SensBug, which can produce an effective path in an unknown environment with both stationary and movable obstacles. The contributions, which make it possible to generate an effective and short path, are an improved method to select local directions, a reverse mode, and a simple leaving condition. Some emerging technologies that can be used for implementing an intelligent construction robot are introduced in this paper.     

Multifamily Housing Characteristics and Tenant Satisfaction

This paper examines the long-term impact of structural features and physical amenities on the residential satisfaction of renters in multifamily housing. A cumulative logit analysis of 7,206 rented multifamily units in the 2005 American Housing Survey indicates that features creating separated space (additional room, bathroom, garage/carport, or balcony/patio) were associated with significantly higher satisfaction, even when holding total unit area constant. Conversely, violation of space separation by noise intrusion through walls, floors, or ceilings created dramatically negative effects. Other amenities such as a fireplace, disposal, or dishwasher had no statistically significant impact. Tracking a cohort of 5,170 rented multifamily units from 1997 to 2005 revealed somewhat similar effects on the satisfaction trajectory of residents during this period. More bathrooms, bedrooms, and other rooms, as well as the presence of a balcony/patio were associated with satisfaction improvements. Analyzing cohort units undergoing modifications during the tracking period revealed that the addition of a bathroom or central air conditioning had the clearest impact on satisfaction, followed by the addition of a balcony/patio, other room, dishwasher, or garage/carport.     

Effects of situational demand upon social enjoyment and preference in schizotypy.

The socioemotional functioning of schizophrenic and schizotypic individuals is marked by withdrawal, poor organization, and limited emotional displays. Such behavioral tendencies and lack of social enjoyment in schizotypy could be linked to the relative situational demands or role ambiguity inherent in specific social activities. To determine whether high-schizotypy individuals prefer more clearly role-defined social activities (e.g., visiting relatives) to more ambiguous, novel situations (e.g., going alone to a party), the authors gathered reports from 52 high-schizotypy and 60 low-schizotypy individuals on their enjoyment and frequency of engaging in social situations varying in relative situational demand. Parallel reports were obtained from knowledgeable others. Group × Situational Demand interactions revealed the hypothesized pattern of reduced frequency and enjoyment ratings for ambiguous or novel situations by the high-schizotypy participants in both self and others' reports. Groups were more comparable in their reported frequency and enjoyment of less ambiguous situations. Results suggest the importance of situational demands in the socioemotional experience and behavioral withdrawal in schizotypy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)