Texas A&M University

About: Texas A&M University is a education organization based out in College Station, Texas, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Finite element method. The organization has 72169 authors who have published 164372 publications receiving 5764236 citations.

Mapping and genome organization of microsatellite sequences in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Abstract: In order to enhance the resolution of an existing genetic map of rice, and to obtain a comprehensive picture of marker utility and genomic distribution of microsatellites in this important grain species, rice DNA sequences containing simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were extracted from several small-insert genomic libraries and from the database. One hundred and eighty eight new microsatellite markers were developed and evaluated for allelic diversity. The new simple sequence length polymorphisms (SSLPs) were incorporated into the existing map previously containing 124 SSR loci. The 312 microsatellite markers reported here provide whole-genome coverage with an average density of one SSLP per 6 cM. In this study, 26 SSLP markers were identified in published sequences of known genes, 65 were developed based on partial cDNA sequences available in GenBank, and 97 were isolated from genomic libraries. Microsatellite markers with different SSR motifs are relatively uniformly distributed along rice chromosomes regardless of whether they were derived from genomic clones or cDNA sequences. However, the distribution of polymorphism detected by these markers varies between different regions of the genome.

The automaticity of complex motor skill learning as a function of attentional focus

Abstract: The present experiment was designed to test the predictions of the constrained-action hypothesis. This hypothesis proposes that when performers utilize an internal focus of attention (focus on their movements) they may actually constrain or interfere with automatic control processes that would normally regulate the movement, whereas an external focus of attention (focus on the movement effect) allows the motor system to more naturally self-organize. To test this hypothesis, a dynamic balance task (stabilometer) was used with participants instructed to adopt either an internal or external focus of attention. Consistent with earlier experiments, the external focus group produced generally smaller balance errors than did the internal focus group and responded at a higher frequency indicating higher confluence between voluntary and reflexive mechanisms. In addition, probe reaction times (RTs) were taken as a measure of the attention demands required under the two attentional focus conditions. Consistent with the hypothesis, the external focus participants demonstrated lower probe RTs than did the internal focus participants, indicating a higher degree of automaticity and less conscious interference in the control processes associated with the balance task.

Hippo pathway inhibits Wnt signaling to restrain cardiomyocyte proliferation and heart size.

Abstract: Genetic regulation of mammalian heart size is poorly understood. Hippo signaling represents an organ-size control pathway in Drosophila, where it also inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis in imaginal discs. To determine whether Hippo signaling controls mammalian heart size, we inactivated Hippo pathway components in the developing mouse heart. Hippo-deficient embryos had overgrown hearts with elevated cardiomyocyte proliferation. Gene expression profiling and chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that Hippo signaling negatively regulates a subset of Wnt target genes. Genetic interaction studies indicated that β-catenin heterozygosity suppressed the Hippo cardiomyocyte overgrowth phenotype. Furthermore, the Hippo effector Yap interacts with β-catenin on Sox2 and Snai2 genes. These data uncover a nuclear interaction between Hippo and Wnt signaling that restricts cardiomyocyte proliferation and controls heart size.

Attitude Change: Persuasion and Social Influence

Abstract: This chapter reviews empirical and theoretical developments in research on social influence and message-based persuasion. The review emphasizes research published during the period from 1996-1998. Across these literatures, three central motives have been identified that generate attitude change and resistance. These involve concerns with the self, with others and the rewards/punishments they can provide, and with a valid understanding of reality. The motives have implications for information processing and for attitude change in public and private contexts. Motives in persuasion also have been investigated in research on attitude functions and cognitive dissonance theory. In addition, the chapter reviews the relatively unique aspects of each literature: In persuasion, it considers the cognitive and affective mechanisms underlying attitude change, especially dual-mode processing models, recipients' affective reactions, and biased processing. In social influence, the chapter considers how attitudes are embedded in social relations, including social identity theory and majority/minority group influence.