Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Investigating Differences in Vigilance Tactic Use within and between the Sexes in Eastern Grey Kangaroos

Aggregation is thought to enhance an animal’s security through effective predator detection and the dilution of risk. A decline in individual vigilance as group size increases is commonly reported in the literature and called the group size effect. However, to date, most of the research has only been directed toward examining whether this effect occurs at the population level. Few studies have explored the specific contributions of predator detection and risk dilution and the basis of individual differences in the use of vigilance tactics. We tested whether male and female (non-reproductive or with young) eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) adopted different vigilance tactics when in mixed-sex groups and varied in their reliance on predator detection and/or risk dilution as group size changed. This species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism with females being much smaller than males, making them differentially vulnerable toward predators. We combined field observations with vigilance models describing the effects of detection and dilution on scanning rates as group size increased. We found that females with and without juveniles relied on predator detection and risk dilution, but the latter adjusted their vigilance to the proportion of females with juveniles within their group. Two models appeared to equally support the data for males suggesting that males, similarly to females, relied on predator detection and risk dilution but may also have adjusted their vigilance according to the proportion of mothers within their group. Differential vulnerability may cause sex differences in vigilance tactic use in this species. The presence of males within a group that do not, or only partially, contribute to predator detection and are less at risk may cause additional security costs to females. Our results call for reexamination of the classical view of the safety advantages of grouping to provide a more detailed functional interpretation of gregariousness.
EVOLUTION OF VIVIPARITY: A PHYLOGENETIC TEST OF THE COLD‐CLIMATE HYPOTHESIS IN PHRYNOSOMATID LIZARDS

The evolution of viviparity is a key life‐history transition in vertebrates, but the selective forces favoring its evolution are not fully understood. With >100 origins of viviparity, squamate reptiles (lizards and snakes) are ideal for addressing this issue. Some evidence from field and laboratory studies supports the “cold‐climate” hypothesis, wherein viviparity provides an advantage in cold environments by allowing mothers to maintain higher temperatures for developing embryos. Surprisingly, the cold‐climate hypothesis has not been tested using both climatic data and phylogenetic comparative methods. Here, we investigate the evolution of viviparity in the lizard family Phrynosomatidae using GIS‐based environmental data, an extensive phylogeny (117 species), and recently developed comparative methods. We find significant relationships between viviparity and lower temperatures during the warmest (egg‐laying) season, strongly supporting the cold‐climate hypothesis. Remarkably, we also find that viviparity tends to evolve more frequently at tropical latitudes, despite its association with cooler climates. Our results help explain this and two related patterns that seemingly contradict the cold‐climate hypothesis: the presence of viviparous species restricted to low‐elevation tropical regions and the paucity of viviparous species at high latitudes. Finally, we examine whether viviparous taxa may be at higher risk of extinction from anthropogenic climate change.
The CMU mobile computers: a new generation of computer systems

A novel class of mobile, wearable computer systems designed and manufactured at Carnegie Mellon University is described. These wearable systems provide a variety of capabilities including head mounted display, speech recognition, wireless telecommunication, and global position sensing. The mobile computer emphasizes the integration of computer supplied information in the mobile workspace. Three generations of wearable computers representing an evolution in capabilities are described: VuMan 1, VuMan 2, and Navigator. <<ETX>>
Reduced nitrogen losses after conversion of row crop agriculture to perennial biofuel crops.

Current biofuel feedstock crops such as corn lead to large environmental losses of N through nitrate leaching and NO emissions; second-generation cellulosic crops have the potential to reduce these N losses. We measured N losses and cycling in establishing miscanthus (), switchgrass ( L. fertilized with 56 kg N ha yr), and mixed prairie, along with a corn ( L.)-corn-soybean [ (L.) Merr. ] rotation (corn fertilized at 168-202 kg N ha). Nitrous oxide emissions, soil N mineralization, mid-profile nitrate leaching, and tile flow and nitrate concentrations were measured. Perennial crops quickly reduced nitrate leaching at a 50-cm soil depth as well as concentrations and loads from the tile systems (year 1 tile nitrate concentrations of 10-15 mg N L declined significantly by year 4 in all perennial crops to <0.6 mg N L, with losses of <0.8 kg N ha yr). Nitrous oxide emissions were 2.2 to 7.7 kg N ha yr in the corn-corn-soybean rotation but were <1.0 kg N ha yr by year 4 in the perennial crops. Overall N balances (atmospheric deposition + fertilization + soybean N fixation - harvest, leaching losses, and NO emissions) were positive for corn and soybean (22 kg N ha yr) as well as switchgrass (9.7 kg N ha yr) but were -18 and -29 kg N ha yr for prairie and miscanthus, respectively. Our results demonstrate rapid tightening of the N cycle as perennial biofuel crops established on a rich Mollisol soil.
Reliability-based controller placement algorithm in software defined networking

Software Defined Networking (SDN) change the routing architecture from distribution to centralization. Then the centralized controller placement becomes an important issue since network delay and synchronization will be affected. In this paper, the problem of controller placement to optimize the network average reliability is studied. We first consider the optimization problem for controller placement under the assumption with the shortest path between controller and switches, and a clustering based optimal controller placement algorithm and sub-optimal algorithm base on greedy algorithm are proposed, respectively. Then, we extend the controller placement problem to more general case with multi-paths between controller and switches. In this case, to reduce the computation complexity, a Reliability Factor is defined to replace the network average reliability. After that, modified clustering based and greedy based algorithms are proposed to make the optimal and sub-optimal solution, respectively. Finally, simulation results demonstrate the performance of the proposed algorithms better than regular placement stratagem with the Internet2 OS3E and the Internet Topology Zoo.
Too Good to be True? Ideomotor Theory from a Computational Perspective

In recent years, Ideomotor Theory has regained widespread attention and sparked the development of a number of theories on goal-directed behavior and learning. However, there are two issues with previous studies’ use of Ideomotor Theory. Although Ideomotor Theory is seen as very general, it is often studied in settings that are considerably more simplistic than most natural situations. Moreover, Ideomotor Theory’s claim that effect anticipations directly trigger actions and that action-effect learning is based on the formation of direct action-effect associations is hard to address empirically. We address these points from a computational perspective. A simple computational model of Ideomotor Theory was tested in tasks with different degrees of complexity. The model evaluation showed that Ideomotor Theory is a computationally feasible approach for understanding efficient action-effect learning for goal-directed behavior if the following preconditions are met: (1) The range of potential actions and effects has to be restricted. (2) Effects have to follow actions within a short time window. (3) Actions have to be simple and may not require sequencing. The first two preconditions also limit human performance and thus support Ideomotor Theory. The last precondition can be circumvented by extending the model with more complex, indirect action generation processes. In conclusion, we suggest that Ideomotor Theory offers a comprehensive framework to understand action-effect learning. However, we also suggest that additional processes may mediate the conversion of effect anticipations into actions in many situations.
Retrieval-Based Learning : Research at the Interface between Cognitive Science and Education

This essay reviews research on retrieval-based learning, which refers to the general finding that practicing active retrieval enhances long-term,meaningful learning. The idea that retrieval promotes learning has existed for centuries, and the first experiments demonstrating retrieval practice effects were carried out near the beginning of experimental research on learning and memory. Interest in retrieval practice was sporadic during the past century, but the topic has received intense interest in recent years as part of a broadermovement to integrate research from cognitive sciencewith educational practice. The essay provides a selective review of foundational research and contemporarywork that has been aimed at deepening our theoretical knowledge about retrieval practice and integrating retrieval-based learning within educational activities and settings.
Bystander Training as Leadership Training: Notes on the Origins, Philosophy, and Pedagogy of the Mentors in Violence Prevention Model

This article outlines the origins, philosophy, and pedagogy of the Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) program, which has played a significant role in the gender violence prevention field since its inception in 1993. MVP was one of the first large-scale programs to target men for prevention efforts, as well as the first to operate systematically in sports culture and the U.S. military. MVP also introduced the “bystander” approach to the field. MVP employs a social justice, gender-focused approach to prevention. Key features of this approach are described and contrasted with individualistic, events-based strategies that have proliferated on college campuses and elsewhere in recent years.
Defected Image ( Luminance ) Steerable Filter Decomposition Defect Simulator-Adjacent Channel Inhibition ( Masking ) Subband Response Prediction

Masking is a perceptual effect in which contents of the image reduce the ability of the observer to see the target signals hidden in the image. Characterization of masking effects plays an important role in modern image quality assessment (IQA) algorithms. In this work, we attribute the reduced sensitivity to the inhibition imposed by adjacent visual channels. In our model, each visual channel is excited by the contrast difference between the reference and distorted image in the corresponding channel and suppressed by the activities of the mask in adjacent channels. The model parameters are fitted to the results of a psychophysical experiment conducted with a set of different natural texture masks. Cross-validation is performed to demonstrate the model’s performance in predicting the target detection threshold. The results of this work could be applied to improve the performance of current HVS-based IQA algorithms.
HEV Motor Comparison of IPMSM With Nd Sintered Magnet and Heavy Rare-Earth Free Injection Magnet in the Same Size

In the near future, usage of heavy rare-earth element needs to be reduced, due to resource risk and rising price with vehicle electrification. This paper compared two hybrid electric vehicle traction motors of the same size using Nd sintered magnet and heavy rare-earth free magnet. We designed two interior permanent magnet synchronous motors varying only the rotor design and material. A new motor was developed using heavy rare-earth free magnet with performance and size equal to Nd sintered motor. The rotor shape was designed as the one of a synchronous reluctance motor to overcome the lack of heavy rare-earth free motor torque. The motor performance was verified with a series of experiments.
A stroking device for spatially separated couples

In this paper we present a device to support the communication of couples in long-distance relationships. While a synchronous exchange of factual information over distance is supported by telephone, e-mail and chat-systems, the transmission of nonverbal aspects of communication is still unsatisfactory. Videocalls let us see the partners' facial expression in real time. However, to experience a more intimate conversation physical closeness is needed. Stroking while holding hands is a special and emotional gesture for couples. Hence, we developed a device that enables couples to exchange the physical gesture of stroking regardless of distance and location. The device allows both sending and receiving. A user test supported our concept and provided new insights for future development.
Variants in Striatin Gene Are Associated With Salt-Sensitive Blood Pressure in Mice and Humans

Striatin is a novel protein that interacts with steroid receptors and modifies rapid, nongenomic activity in vitro. We tested the hypothesis that striatin would in turn affect mineralocorticoid receptor function and consequently sodium, water, and blood pressure homeostasis in an animal model. We evaluated salt sensitivity of blood pressure in novel striatin heterozygote knockout mice. Compared with wild type, striatin heterozygote exhibited a significant increase in blood pressure when sodium intake was increased from restricted (0.03%) to liberal (1.6%) sodium. Furthermore, renal expression of mineralocorticoid receptor and its genomic downstream targets serum/glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1, and epithelial sodium channel was increased in striatin heterozygote versus wild-type mice on liberal sodium intake while the pAkt/Akt ratio, readout of mineralocorticoid receptor’s rapid, nongenomic pathway, was reduced. To determine the potential clinical relevance of these findings, we tested the association between single nucleotide polymorphic variants of striatin gene and salt sensitivity of blood pressure in 366 white hypertensive subjects. HapMap-derived tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms identified an association of rs2540923 with salt sensitivity of blood pressure (odds ratio, 6.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.7–20; P=0.01). These data provide the first in vivo evidence in humans and rodents that associates striatin with markers of mineralocorticoid receptor activity. The data also support the hypothesis that the rapid, nongenomic mineralocorticoid receptor pathway (mediated via striatin) has a role in modulating the interaction between salt intake and blood pressure.
Single-phase cascaded semi-Z-source inverter for photovoltaic applications

In this paper, a single phase cascaded semi-Z-source inverter is proposed for photovoltaic (PV) applications. The proposed semi-Z-source inverter utilizes a nonlinear Sinusoidal Pulse Width Modulation (SPWM) to produce sinusoidal voltage at the output as microinverter. The proposed system is able to produce an AC voltage at its output terminals by utilizing only four switches for each PV cell. Moreover, the proposed system overcomes the shading problem of PV systems as the maximum power point tracking can be independently achieved. One of the main advantages of the proposed topology is its modularity, which leads directly to increase the installed power. In addition, the proposed topology reduces the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) and DC current components at the output during DC-AC conversion.
The antihypertensive drug pindolol attenuates long‐term but not short‐term binge‐like ethanol consumption in mice

Alcohol dependence is a debilitating disorder with current therapies displaying limited efficacy and/or compliance. Consequently, there is a critical need for improved pharmacotherapeutic strategies to manage alcohol use disorders (AUDs). Previous studies have shown that the development of alcohol dependence involves repeated cycles of binge‐like ethanol intake and abstinence. Therefore, we used a model of binge–ethanol consumption (drinking‐in‐the‐dark) in mice to test the effects of compounds known to modify the activity of neurotransmitters implicated in alcohol addiction. From this, we have identified the FDA‐approved antihypertensive drug pindolol, as a potential candidate for the management of AUDs. We show that the efficacy of pindolol to reduce ethanol consumption is enhanced following long‐term (12 weeks) binge–ethanol intake, compared with short‐term (4 weeks) intake. Furthermore, pindolol had no effect on locomotor activity or consumption of the natural reward sucrose. Because pindolol acts as a dual beta‐adrenergic antagonist and 5‐HT1A/1B partial agonist, we examined its effect on spontaneous synaptic activity in the basolateral amygdala (BLA), a brain region densely innervated by serotonin and norepinephrine‐containing fibres. Pindolol increased spontaneous excitatory post‐synaptic current frequency of BLA principal neurons from long‐term ethanol‐consuming mice but not naïve mice. Additionally, this effect was blocked by the 5‐HT1A/1B receptor antagonist methiothepin, suggesting that altered serotonergic activity in the BLA may contribute to the efficacy of pindolol to reduce ethanol intake following long‐term exposure. Although further mechanistic investigations are required, this study demonstrates the potential of pindolol as a new treatment option for AUDs that can be fast‐tracked into human clinical studies.
Self-Determined Motivation and Sportsmanship Orientations: An Assessment of Their Temporal Relationship

The motives underlying involvement in sport appear to influence how a person will play the game. However, how athletes play the game may also have an impact on their motives for participating in sports. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between self-determined motivation and sportsmanship orientations by using a longitudinal design, as well as recent theoretical approaches to sportsmanship (Vallerand, 199 1, 1994) and motivation (Deci & Ryan, 1985, 1991). Male adolescent elite hockey players (N = 77, mean age = 15.8) completed a questionnaire assessing both constructs 2 weeks into the hockey season (Tl) and at the end of the regular season (T2), 5 months later. The results from cross-lag correlations suggested that, over time, self-determined motivation and sportsmanship orientations have a positive bidirectional relation, in which self-determined motivation has greater influence on sportsmanship. These results give further impetus to the need to consider motivation in future studies on sportsmanship.
Economic activity and patterns of infant growth in a high altitude district of Peru

Changing economic activities bring significant cultural, epidemiological, and nutritional transitions. Infancy represents a critical period when rapid growth and metabolic programming occur, making infants particularly vulnerable to long‐lasting biological changes due to such transitions. This paper examines the relationship between residence in distinct economic production zones (urban, herding, and dairy) and early growth in a highland district of Peru.
Development and analysis of silicon solar cells with laser-fired contacts and silicon nitride laser ablation

SAUAIA, Rodrigo Lopes. Development and analysis of silicon solar cells with laser-fired contacts and silicon nitride laser ablation. Porto Alegre. 2013. Doctoral thesis. Postgraduate Program in Materials Engineering and Technology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul. The goal of this thesis was the development and analysis of crystalline silicon solar cells processed by laser radiation. Solar cells with npp structure on p-type, CZ-Si solar grade substrate were developed, analysed, and evaluated, based on two laser processing techniques: laser-fired rear contacts (LFC) and laser ablation of the front surface silicon nitride by means of laser chemical processing (LPC) or using a mirror galvanometer laser system (SCA). The LFC method was employed to form the rear contacts of crystalline silicon solar cells after the deposition of an aluminium layer. The LCP and SCA methods were used to develop a silicon nitride ablation process. The laser ablation process was employed to open regions of the device’s antireflection coating, followed by selective chemical deposition of Ni/Ag to form the front metal grid. The best laser processing parameters found for LFC solar cells were: 33.0 A pumping lamp current, 20.0 kHz q-switch frequency, and 0.50 mm contact distance. LFC solar cells with screen printed front metallization and SiO2 rear passivation layer achieved an average efficiency of 14.4 % and best value of 15.3 %, after an annealing step at 400 oC with a belt speed of 50 cm/min. Increasing the rear aluminium layer thickness from 2 μm to 4 μm did not improve the performance of the devices significantly. The best laser processing parameters found for the silicon nitride laser ablation process based on the LCP technique were: 15.3 μJ laser pulse energy, 16.0 kHz q-switch frequency, and 100 mm/s processing speed. The best laser processing parameters found for the silicon nitride laser ablation process based on the SCA technique were: 5.0 μJ laser pulse energy, 130.0 kHz q-switch frequency, and 813 mm/s processing speed. Solar cells with silicon nitride laser ablation, front side metallization by Ni/Ag selective electrochemical deposition, and screen-printed rear side metallization achieved an average efficiency of 16.1 % and best value of 16.8 % for the LCP technique and an average efficiency of 16.3 % and best value of 16.6 % for the SCA technique.
Locomotive Recalibration and Prism Adaptation of Children and Teens in Immersive Virtual Environments

As virtual reality expands in popularity, an increasingly diverse audience is gaining exposure to immersive virtual environments (IVEs). A significant body of research has demonstrated how perception and action work in such environments, but most of this work has been done studying adults. Less is known about how physical and cognitive development affect perception and action in IVEs, particularly as applied to preteen and teenage children. Accordingly, in the current study we assess how preteens (children aged 8–12 years) and teenagers (children aged 15-18 years) respond to mismatches between their motor behavior and the visual information presented by an IVE. Over two experiments, we evaluate how these individuals recalibrate their actions across functionally distinct systems of movement. The first experiment analyzed forward walking recalibration after exposure to an IVE with either increased or decreased visual flow. Visual flow during normal bipedal locomotion was manipulated to be either twice or half as fast as the physical gait. The second experiment leveraged a prism throwing adaptation paradigm to test the effect of recalibration on throwing movement. In the first experiment, our results show no differences across age groups, although subjects generally experienced a post-exposure effect of shortened distance estimation after experiencing visually faster flow and longer distance estimation after experiencing visually slower flow. In the second experiment, subjects generally showed the typical prism adaptation behavior of a throwing after-effect error. The error lasted longer for preteens than older children. Our results have implications for the design of virtual systems with children as a target audience.