Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Importance of land‐surface parameterization for latent heat simulation in global atmospheric models

Simulations of atmospheric general circulation models' (AGCMs') continental latent heat flux (LH) depend on the land‐surface schemes (LSSs), the atmospheric forcing and feedbacks between these. This paper introduces a novel method for evaluating the dependence of 19 Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project AGCMs' LH on the LSS by excluding the impact of forcing from, and feedback to, the atmosphere. Pseudo LSSs (PLSSs) for LH in the form of multi‐variable linear models expressing mean monthly LH as a function of atmospheric forcing are developed. Analysis over three large and climatically diverse river basins shows estimates of mean annual LH from the PLSSs agreeing well with the AGCMs' simulations. Root mean square errors range from 0.4 to 2.2 Wm−2 depending on the region and the AGCM. When the PLSSs are driven by single realisations of atmospheric forcing, different LSSs interact differently with the atmosphere, exhibiting a range of climate sensitivities, and the variability of mean annual LH among AGCMs increases. We conclude that LSSs are important to AGCM predictions and new, or changed, land‐surface components will increase diversity among climate simulations.
Protective Role for Caspase-11 during Acute Experimental Murine Colitis

Activation of the noncanonical inflammasome, mediated by caspase-11, serves as an additional pathway for the production of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. Noncanonical inflammasome activity occurs during host defense against Gram-negative bacteria and in models of acute septic shock. We propose that the noncanonical inflammasome is activated in mice during acute intestinal inflammation elicited by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), a model of experimental colitis. We find that caspase-11−/− mice display enhanced susceptibility to DSS, because of impaired IL-18 production. The impaired IL-18 levels observed are shown to result in reduced intestinal epithelial cell proliferation and increased cell death. We also suggest that a novel type II IFN–dependent, type I IFN-TRIF–independent signaling pathway is required for in vivo caspase-11 production in intestinal epithelial cells during DSS colitis. Collectively, these data suggest that IFN-γ–mediated caspase-11 expression has a key role maintaining intestinal epithelial barrier integrity in vivo during experimentally induced acute colitis.
Parameter constraints for flat cosmologies from cosmic microwave background and 2dFGRS power spectra

We constrain flat cosmological models with a joint likelihood analysis of a new compilation of data from the cosmic microwave background (CMB) and from the 2dF Galaxy Redshift Survey (2dFGRS). Fitting the CMB alone yields a known degeneracy between the Hubble constant h and the matter density Omega(m), which arises mainly from preserving the location of the peaks in the angular power spectrum. This 'horizon-angle degeneracy' is considered in some detail and is shown to follow the simple relation Omega(m) h(3.4) = constant. Adding the 2dFGRS power spectrum constrains Omega(m) h and breaks the degeneracy. If tensor anisotropies are assumed to be negligible, we obtain values for the Hubble constant of h = 0.665 +/- 0.047, the matter density Omega(m) = 0.313 +/- 0.055, and the physical cold dark matter and baryon densities Omega(c)h(2) = 0.115 +/- 0.009, Omega(b)h(2) = 0.022 +/- 0.002 (standard rms errors). Including a possible tensor component causes very little change to these figures; we set an upper limit to the tensor-to-scalar ratio of r < 0.7 at a 95 per cent confidence level. We then show how these data can be used to constrain the equation of state of the vacuum, and find w < -0.52 at 95 per cent confidence. The preferred cosmological model is thus very well specified, and we discuss the precision with which future CMB data can be predicted, given the model assumptions. The 2dFGRS power-spectrum data and covariance matrix, and the CMB data compilation used here, are available from http://www.roe. ac.uk/similar towjp/.
Behavioral Recognition and multi-target tracking in partially observed environments. (Reconnaissance comportementale et suivi multi-cible dans des environnements partiellement observés)

In this thesis, we are interested in the problem of pedestrian behavioral tracking within a critical environment partially under sensory coverage. While most of the works found in the literature usually focus only on either the location of a pedestrian or the activity a pedestrian is undertaking, we stands in a general view and consider estimating both data simultaneously. The contributions presented in this document are organized in two parts. The first part focuses on the representation and the exploitation of the environmental context for serving the purpose of behavioral estimation. The state of the art shows few studies addressing this issue where graphical models with limited expressiveness capacity such as dynamic Bayesian networks are used for modeling prior environmental knowledge. We propose, instead, to rely on richer contextual models issued from autonomous agent-based behavioral simulators and we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach through extensive experimental evaluations. The second part of the thesis addresses the general problem of pedestrians’ mutual influences, commonly known as targets’ interactions, on their respective behaviors during the tracking process. Under the assumption of the availability of a generic simulator (or a function) modeling the tracked targets' behaviors, we develop a yet scalable approach in which interactions are considered at low computational cost. The originality of the proposed approach resides on the introduction of density-based aggregated information, called ‘’representatives’’, computed in such a way to guarantee the behavioral diversity for each target, and on which the filtering system relies for computing, in a finer way, behavioral estimations even in case of occlusions. We present the modeling choices, the resulting algorithms as well as a set of challenging scenarios on which the proposed approach is evaluated.
Understanding Our Understanding of Strategic Scenarios: What Role Do Chunks Play?

There is a crucial debate concerning the nature of chess chunks: One current possibility states that chunks are built by encoding particular combinations of pieces-on-squares (POSs), and that chunks are formed mostly by "close" pieces (in a "Euclidean" sense). A complementary hypothesis is that chunks are encoded by abstract, semantic information. This article extends recent experiments and shows that chess players are able to perceive strong similarity between very different positions if the pieces retain the same abstract roles in both of them. This casts doubt on the idea that POS information is the key information encoded in chess chunks, and this article proposes, instead, that the key encoding involves the abstract roles that pieces (and sets of pieces) play-a theoretical standpoint in line with the research program in semantics that places analogy at the core of cognition.
The effects of autonomy support in physical education classes [Efectos del soporte de autonomía en clases de educación física].

The aim of this study was to analyze the behavioral, affective and cognitive effects that an intervention based on autonomy support has in physical education classes. The sample consisted of 145 students aged between 10 and 12 (M = 10.37; SD = .68). The experimental group (n = 91) consisted of four groups (two fifth grade and two sixth) and control group (n = 54) for a fifth year and one sixth of primary education. Autonomy support, the basic psychological needs, intrinsic motivation, importance attributed to physical education and the rate of regular physical activity were measured. Before the study began, the instructor involved participated in a workshop on autonomy support. During the same he was taught the concepts advocated by the SDT motivation and behavior training to facilitate greater levels of autonomy support, in addition to lowering the driver style statements in their classes. After the intervention (21 programmed physical education classes in four months), the results showed that the experimental group experienced significant increases in autonomy, intrinsic motivation, importance of physical education, intention to do sport and regular physical activity. Autonomy support in students had positive cognitive, affective and behavioral consequences.
Effect of anti‐IL‐1β antibody (canakinumab) on insulin secretion rates in impaired glucose tolerance or type 2 diabetes: results of a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial

Evaluate anti‐interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) antibody, canakinumab, in patients with type 2 diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in whom hyperglycaemia may trigger IL‐1β‐associated inflammation leading to suppressed insulin secretion and β‐cell dysfunction.
N-Acetyl-d-glucosaminylphosphatidylinositol De-N-acetylase from Entamoeba histolytica

PIG-L/GPI12 proteins are endoplasmic reticulum-resident membrane proteins involved in the second step of glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor biosynthesis in eukaryotes. We show that the Entamoeba histolytica PIG-L protein is optimally active in the acidic pH range. The enzyme has an intrinsic low level of de-N-acetylase activity in the absence of metal and is significantly stimulated by divalent cations. Metal binding induces a large conformational change in the protein that appears to improve catalytic rates while not altering the affinity of the enzyme for its substrate.
Original Contribution A Prospective Study of Arsenic Exposure From Drinking Water and Incidence of Skin Lesions in Bangladesh

Elevated concentrations of arsenic in groundwater pose a public health threat to millions of people worldwide. The authors aimed to evaluate the association between arsenic exposure and skin lesion incidence among participants in the Health Effects of Arsenic Longitudinal Study (HEALS). The analyses used data on 10,182 adults free of skin lesions at baseline through the third biennial follow-up of the cohort (2000–2009). Discrete-time hazard regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for incident skin lesions. Multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios for incident skin lesions comparing 10.1–50.0, 50.1–100.0, 100.1–200.0, and 200.1 lg/L with 10.0 lg/L of well water arsenic exposure were 1.17 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.92, 1.49), 1.69 (95% CI: 1.33, 2.14), 1.97 (95% CI: 1.58, 2.46), and 2.98 (95% CI: 2.40, 3.71), respectively (Ptrend 1⁄4 0.0001). Results were similar for the other measures of arsenic exposure, and the increased risks remained unchanged with changes in exposure in recent years. Dose-dependent associations were more pronounced in females, but the incidence of skin lesions was greater in males and older individuals. Chronic arsenic exposure from drinking water was associated with increased incidence of skin lesions, even at low levels of arsenic exposure (<100 lg/L).
Android smartphone adoption and intention to pay for mobile internet: Perspectives from software, hardware, design, and value

Purpose – The research goal of this study is to explore the factors influencing the adoption of Android smartphones and the intention to pay for mobile internet services.Design/methodology/approach – The present study proposes a framework based on theory of reasoned action (TRA) from the perspectives of software (interface convenience and perceived content), hardware (perceived infrastructure), design (design aesthetics) and perceived value (emotional value, price/value for money, performance/quality value, and social value). A web survey was conducted, and data were collected from a total of 881 users of Android smartphones in Taiwan. The casual model was validated using partial least squares (PLS) techniques.Findings – The results indicated that the influence of the factors on the intention of the mobile internet users and non‐users were different. Surprisingly, the effect of design aesthetics was not significant in all of the groups. Male users were found to be more likely to read e‐books on their smar.
Alcohol, Drugs, Fighting and Suicide Attempt/Ideation

In a representative U.S. sample of 18,352 current drinkers 18 years of age and over, past-year alcohol- or other drug-related fighting and suicide attempt/ideation both showed strong positive bivariate associations with volume of alcohol intake, proportion of drinking days resulting in intoxication (the intoxication index) and past-year drug use, especially multiple drug use. After adjusting for potential confounders in a series of multiple logistic regression models, average daily ethanol intake retained a significant positive association with the odds of alcohol- and other drug-related fighting, as did the intoxication index–except among drinkers who used marijuana only (i.e., no other drugs). The odds of this outcome also were increased by use of simulants or cocaine only, use of multiple drugs and use of marijuana–the latter primarily among women. The odds of past-year suicide attempt/ideation were positively associated with the intoxication index but were not significantly associated with average dai.
‘‘Poppin’ bottles, getting wheysted.” Exploring young men’s engagement with fitspiration content and its consequential influences on attitudes and behaviour.

This paper explores young males’ current interaction with fitspiration. Its focus resides in the experiences and behaviours of the users and the content’s influence on body satisfaction, exercise behaviour, and attitudes towards masculinity. Existing literature has focused on traditional media, its creation of ideals and its effects on body image. However it has also highlighted how online sphere growth creates space for identity exploration, and one’s ability to pick and choose their own media to suit personal goals and gratifications. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore phenomena, with findings from the interpretive study suggesting men are selective about fitspiration they access, and ideals portrayed in mainstream media do not trickle down through social media, due to the sheer range of identities portrayed in online discourse. However, it also recognises how new media maintains the ability to influence ideas about masculinity, encouraging men to compare physiques and personalities to those they see in fitspiration. Normal 0 false false false EN-GB JA X-NONE
WOMEN'S GOSSIP AND SOCIAL CHANGE

Between 1920 and 1940, increasing proportions of urban Italian and Jewish women gave birth under the supervision of doctors in clinics and hospitals and limited the number of children they bore. We examine the role of women's informal conversation in accounting for the differences between Jewish and Italian women in the timing of these social changes. Women in both groups drew on relatives, friends, and neighbors for information and social support, but differences in the composition of Italian and Jewish networks were relevant for the timing of change in these reproductive behaviors.
Facilitating asynchronous discussions in learning communities: the impact of moderation strategies

A facilitator or moderator is often responsible for supporting processes and their progress in learning communities. In this article we present an approach for supporting moderators of asynchronous processes in learning communities. This approach follows the socio-technical perspective: it includes a theory-based development of moderator tasks and the technical features designed to support these tasks. Starting with relevant work in this area, we describe our approach to moderator support in the collaborative learning environment KOLUMBUS 2. In a qualitative study, a professional moderator facilitated the discussion processes of a group of 12 students based on KOLUMBUS 2. The moderator used different methods and varying levels of participation intervention. The study showed that different intervention strategies led to different levels of student participation and different successes in finding common results at the end of the discussions. Suggestions for the design of technical features are also made.
Commonalities and contradictions in research on human resource management and performance. Forthcoming (2005) - Human Resource Management Journal.

We present an overview of what we believe to be every empirical research article into the linkages between human resource management and performance published in pre-eminent international refereed journals between 1994 and 2003 (n=104). The analysis covers the design of the study, including the primary level of analysis and the identity of the respondent; the dominant theoretical framework(s) informing the article; how HRM is conceived and operationalised; how performance is conceived and operationalised, and which control and/or contingency variables are incorporated. Finally, the article examines how each study depicts the so-called "black box" stage between HRM and performance. We report wide disparities in the treatment of these components, but also some welcome commonalities and indicative trends that point toward a gradual convergence on how future research into this complex relationship might usefully be conducted. The findings are compared with previous reviews of the literature. The analysis should illuminate the ongoing debate about the linkages between HRM and performance and prove valuable for future research designs.
New Striatal Neurons in a Mouse Model of Progressive Striatal Degeneration Are Generated in both the Subventricular Zone and the Striatal Parenchyma

Acute striatal lesions increase proliferation in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and induce migration of SVZ neuroblasts to the striatum. However, the potential of these cells to replace acutely degenerated neurons is controversial. The possible contribution of parenchymal progenitors to striatal lesion-induced neurogenesis has been poorly explored. Here, we present a detailed investigation of neurogenesis in the striatum of a mouse model showing slow progressive neurodegeneration of striatal neurons, the Creb1Camkcre4Crem−/− mutant mice (CBCM). By using BrdU time course analyses, intraventricular injections of a cell tracker and 3D reconstructions we showed that neurodegeneration in CBCM mice stimulates the migration of SVZ neuroblasts to the striatum without altering SVZ proliferation. SVZ-neuroblasts migrate as chains through the callosal striatal border and then enter within the striatal parenchyma as individual cells. In addition, a population of clustered neuroblasts showing high turnover rates were observed in the mutant striatum that had not migrated from the SVZ. Clustered neuroblasts might originate within the striatum itself because they are specifically associated with parenchymal proliferating cells showing features of intermediate neuronal progenitors such as clustering, expression of EGF receptor and multiple glial (SOX2, SOX9, BLBP) and neuronal (Dlx, Sp8, and to some extent DCX) markers. Newborn striatal neurons had a short lifespan and did not replace projection neurons nor expressed sets of transcription factors involved in their specification. The differentiation failure of endogenous neuroblasts likely occurred cell autonomously because transplanted wild type embryonic precursors correctly differentiated into striatal projection neurons. Thus, we propose that under progressive degeneration, neither SVZ derived nor intra-striatal generated neurons have the potential to differentiate into striatal projection neurons.
Exploring Undergraduate Students' Skills, Level of Comfort, and Perceived Benefit of Using Technology for Learning.

Today’s undergraduate students are unique for having grown up in a digital society. An emerging body of empirical research has attempted to understand how young people use technology in the academic context. Our research involved 111 students enrolled in 7 courses in the College of Education at a Mid-Atlantic university, and sought to understand college students’ comfort level with, and the perceived benefits of, a variety of technologies for their academic study. Results indicated a significant relationship between the perceived benefit of a particular technology, and college/discipline, skill level, and frequency of use. Implications for the design of technology-supported learning opportunities in preservice teacher education are discussed.
The Rip11/Rab11-FIP5 and kinesin II complex regulates endocytic protein recycling

Sorting and recycling of endocytosed proteins are required for proper cellular function and growth. Internalized receptors either follow a fast constitutive recycling pathway, returning to the cell surface directly from the early endosomes, or a slow pathway that involves transport via perinuclear recycling endosomes. Slow recycling pathways are thought to play a key role in directing recycling proteins to specific locations on cell surfaces, such as the leading edges of motile cells. These pathways are regulated by various Rab GTPases, such as Rab4 and Rab11. Here we characterize the role of Rip11/FIP5, a known Rab11-binding protein, in regulating endocytic recycling. We use a combination of electron and fluorescent microscopy with siRNA-based protein knockdown to show that Rip11/FIP5 is present at the peripheral endosomes, where it regulates the sorting of internalized receptors to a slow recycling pathway. We also identify kinesin II as a Rip11/FIP5-binding protein and show that it is required for directing endocytosed proteins into the same recycling pathway. Thus, we propose that the Rip11/FIP5-kinesin-II complex has a key role in the routing of internalized receptors through the perinuclear recycling endosomes.
Students' Undergraduate Expectations and Post‐graduation Experiences of the Value of a Degree

The internationally shared belief that higher education has a role to play in delivering graduates with an ability to contribute to the knowledge‐based economy is one of the main driving forces behind the ‘employability agenda’ that has emerged in UK higher education in recent years. For a variety of reasons, including the genuine desire to meet the needs of its graduates, geography is responding to the employability agenda through curriculum change and innovation. However, it is important that any employment‐related developments and initiatives are informed by the opinions and experiences of present and former students. This paper addresses this need by comparing the undergraduate career expectations and post‐graduation career experiences of geography students from the University of Plymouth. The study allows comparisons to be made between two cohorts and reveals which aspects of their degree the graduate cohort found to be most and least useful in their current employment.
The Sex Glands

the expert nursing which is more important in this than in almost any other infectious disease. Secondly, every outbreak should be fully studied by an expert bacteriologist. It seems that sometimes no more is done than the minimum necessary for diagnosis. This is not enough. The bacteriological history of each patient should be recorded as fully as the clinical. Investigation of the channels of spread should be checked by repeated examinations of sewage, water, milk, etc., and this may now be attempted with a reasonable hope of success. If it were done regularly our knowledge of and control over enteric fever would be materially increased.