cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Titan's Smile and Collar : HST Observations of Seasonal Change 1994-2000

We observed Titan with the Hubble Space Telescope in November 2000 using the Wide-Field Plane- tary Camera (WFPC2) and the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS). Considerable change is apparent be- tween these and observations in 1994-1997 : in particular the North-South asymmetry at visible wavelengths has re- versed, with the southern hemisphere brighter, as during the Voyager epoch. The asymmetry shows considerable varia- tion with wavelength in the near-infrared : in the 889nm methane band the asymmetry (which formerly resembled a 'smile') has reversed in the last 3 years, while at 953nm the southern limb is still bright. A south polar collar, dark at ultraviolet wavelengths, is apparent some five years after equinox.
Total Synthesis of Hibispeptin A via Pd-Catalyzed C(sp3)–H Arylation with Sterically Hindered Aryl Iodides

To access the key Ile-Hpa pseudodipeptide motif in hibispeptins, a series of bidentate carboxamide-based auxiliary groups have been explored to facilitate the palladium-catalyzed arylation of unactivated γ-C(sp3)–H bonds of Ile precursor with aryl iodides. A new pyridylmethylamine-based auxiliary group PR is introduced, which permits the use of more sterically hindered ortho-substituted aryl iodide substrates and can be removed under mild conditions. Pd-catalyzed PR-directed γ-C(sp3)–H arylation enabled the first total synthesis of hibispeptin A.
Enhanced desalination using carboxylated carbon nanotube immobilized membranes

Abstract In carbon nanotube immobilized membrane (CNIM), the nanotubes serve as a sorbent that provides additional pathways for solute transport. In this paper we present that carboxylated nanotubes which are significantly more polar and can increase interactions with the water vapor in CNIM to improve desalination efficiency in membrane distillation (MD). The encapsulation of the nanotubes in PVDF prevented the carboxylated nanotubes from making the overall membrane more hydrophilic and thus retain its performance. Overall, desalination was consistently better with carboxylated nanotubes than with unfunctionalized ones with flux reaching as high as 19.2 kg/m2 h in a sweep gas membrane distillation mode.
Markers of exposure to diesel exhaust and cigarette smoke in railroad workers

Diesel exhaust is a complex mixture of combustion gases, vapors and particles, and personal exposure can be estimated indirectly only. Quantitative estimates of exposure were developed for thirteen job groups in a large epidemiologic study of mortality among railroad workers. Three possible markers of exhaust exposure were developed. The first index was the concentration of respirable particles because this was simple and inexpensive to measure precisely. Major positive interference, however, was found from environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and inorganic respirable particles from other emission sources. Composited job group samples were analyzed for particulate nicotine so the ETS component could be subtracted from the respirable particle concentration. This produced a second exposure index, the adjusted respirable particle concentration. Since there are nondiesel sources of particles in some work areas, a third marker was sought. Diesel exhaust particles have a relatively high content of dichloromethane ...
Developmental changes in the contextual control of recognition

In three experiments, we explored potential developmental differences in the contextual control of target recognition using elementary perceptual features that differed only in their spatial relations. Three- and 6-month-old infants were trained in the presence of black horizontal and vertical line segments arranged as Ls, Ts, or +s on a pink background and were tested in the presence of the same line segments in a different spatial arrangement. At both ages, target recognition required a match between the primitive perceptual features in the test context and those present during training. Delayed recognition by younger but not older infants also required a match between specific spatial arrangements of the horizontal and vertical segments (+s versus Ls or Ts), despite the fact that infants of both ages had initially encoded these relations. These data suggest that by 6 months, spatial information in the periphery is detected preattentively via a parallel-processing mechanism, as it is in children and adults.
Vizability: a tool for usability engineering process improvement through the visualization of usability problem data

We present Vizability, a usability engineering tool that is motivated by the variability of analysis processes and facilitates the analysis of existing problem data with the goal of process improvement. Usability engineers spend considerable resources performing usability testing and analyzing the resulting data, but their work is often limited to a single development effort or a small set of similar efforts. To extend the analysis process to multiple diverse efforts, it is necessary to categorize and store data in a consistent manner and have techniques for discovering patterns in that data. Our tool is designed to work with problem data that has been organized according to a hierarchical framework of usability concepts, which ensures consistency through completeness and precision. In addition, our tool helps engineers discover weaknesses in their process through exploratory browsing of a visualization of the tree structure and visual filtering based on cost, importance, and keywords.
A New Form of Coherer

DURING the past eighteen months I have been called upon to demonstrate the principles of wireless telegraphy in connection with my regular lecture courses, and now and then, while wireless telegraphy was still the latest scientific novelty, in popular lectures.
Signal velocity, causality, and quantum noise in superluminal light pulse propagation

Summary form only given. It is well known that the group velocity v/sub g/ of a light pulse can exceed c in an anomalously dispersive medium. As discussed many years ago by Sommerfeld and Brillouin, a group velocity greater than c does not violate causality because it is not the velocity of information transmission. They noted that the "frontal velocity," the velocity at which an infinitely sharp step-function-like disturbance of the light intensity propagates, can serve as a velocity of information transfer. We suggest here an operational definition of the signal velocity and apply it to the recently observed superluminal propagation of a light pulse in a gain medium.
Entrainment and the primate circadian rhythm.

The existence of a 23-hr periodicity in the free-running Nemestrina circadian rhythm is confirmed. This rhythm exerts considerable influence on simple entrained operant behavior.
A strain-energy based failure criterion for non-linear analysis of composite laminates subjected to biaxial loading

The non-linear responses of a lamina under uniaxial longitudinal tension and compression, transverse tension and compression and shear loadings are used to predict the stress/strain response, failure onset and progression in composite laminates subjected to in-plane biaxial loading. A piecewise cubic spline interpolation scheme has been used to represent the basic material properties along the lamina material axes. A laminated plate theory that includes an iterative incremental constitutive law to account for the non-linear behavior of the laminae is combined with a strain-energy based failure criterion for orthotropic materials. Unloading of the failed laminae and subsequent failure progression of the laminate are included in the model. Results for failure onset and progression are presented for a wide variety of unidirectional and symmetric laminates under biaxial loading.
Active coupling enhancement of piezoelectric networks for vibration delocalization of nearly periodic structures

An approach for vibration delocalization of nearly periodic structures using piezoelectric networks with active coupling enhancement is presented. Piezoelectric networks are synthesized to reduce the localization effect by absorbing the vibratory mechanical energy into the electric circuits and distributing it through an additional strong electrical wave channel. The effectiveness of electro-mechanical coupling of the system is increased through the use of active actions via a negative capacitance circuit. It is demonstrated that the delocalization effect of the piezoelectric networks can be greatly enhanced by using the proposed treatment.
SCANNING-ALANINE MUTAGENESIS OF LONG LOOP RESIDUES 33-53 IN FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE BETA SUBUNIT

Abstract Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is a gonadotropin and member of the pituitary/placental glycoprotein hormone family which bind to G-protein-coupled receptors. These hormones are heterodimers composed of a common α and distinct β-subunits. Previous experimental evidence suggested that the FSHβ-subunit long loop comprised of amino acids Tyr 33 to Phe 53 is involved in receptor binding and activation and in subunit interaction. According to recently reported crystal structures of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the homologous long loop of the β-subunit of hCG associates with the α-subunit and is partially exposed to solvent. This report describes the results of scanning alanine mutagenesis used to determine if amino acid side chains in this region of the molecule are required for receptor binding and/or subunit contact. Five mutations were made which spanned this loop and the mutant FSHβ-subunits were co-expressed with α-subunit in a Baculovirus-infected insect-cell expression system. Mutation of 48 QKTCT 52 to 48 AAACA 52 produced a FSHβ-subunit that failed to form heterodimer, consistent with the crystal structure of hCG which shows these amino acids are buried at the subunit interface. The four remaining mutants produced heterodimer and were assayed for binding to and activation of human FSH receptors. Mutation of 37 LVY 39 to 37 AAA 39 caused a 20-fold reduction in receptor binding (ID 50 of 7.0 nM compared with 0.3 nM for wildtype). Mutation of 34 TRDL 37 to 34 AAAA 37 or 44 RPKI 47 to 44 APAA 47 caused lesser but measurable effects with ID 50 values of 1.1 nM and 1.9 nM, respectively. The 40 KDPA 43 to 40 AAPA 43 mutation had little effect on receptor binding (ID 50 = 0.5 nM). Each of the mutant heterodimers could activate human FSH receptors as measured by progesterone production in an in vitro bioassay. These results corroborate the notion that the hFSHβ long loop contains amino acids involved in subunit association as shown in the hCG model. This loop also contains residues not previously identified ( 37 LVY 39 ) whose side chains affect receptor interaction and steroidogenesis.
I-V characteristics of microwave-driven Josephson junctions in the low-frequency and high-damping regime

Experimental I-V curves of microwave-driven Josephson tunnel junctions with resistive shunts are reported. The results are in very good agreement with numerical calculations using the resistively shunted junction model. In the low-frequency regime there are three distinct regions in the I-V curves and two different types of Shapiro steps. It is demonstrated that the overall shape of the I-V curves can be explained by using an adiabatic interpretation of the junction response. The two different types of Shapiro steps are related to a compensation effect between dc and rf bias currents.
Transnational Intellectual Networks: Forms of Academic Knowledge and the Search for Cultural Identities Christophe Charle, Jürgen Schriewer, & Peter Wagner

(2009). Transnational Intellectual Networks: Forms of Academic Knowledge and the Search for Cultural Identities Christophe Charle, Jurgen Schriewer, & Peter Wagner. European Education: Vol. 41, Looking Back, Looking Forward: Continuity and Change in Scholarship on European Education (part II), pp. 93-101.
Thermally reversible polymer gels for biohybrid artificial pancreas

As an approach to replacing islets of Langerhans in an implanted biohybrid artificial pancreas, thermally reversible polymers based on N-isopropylacrylamide were synthesized and then evaluated as an extracellular matrix for islets in an immunoprotecting membrane pouch. A high molecular weight poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid (2 mole % in feed)) demonstrated gelation at 37°C and became a solution below 30°C. This polymer exhibited minimum syneresis (water separation) upon gelation from a solution state when the temperature was raised from room temperature to 37°C, while poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) exhibited considerable syneresis under the same conditions. These properties influence the efficiency of islet entrapment. The copolymer was able to entrap rat islets almost 100%, but the homopolymer entrapped less than 50%. The static insulin secretion of the islets in the copolymer matrix at high glucose concentration (16.5 mM) was comparable to that of control islets, however, the entrapped islets showed prolonged viability in vitro. These results indicate the potential of developing a rechargeable biohybrid pancreas using thermally reversible polymer gels.
Classifications of the International League Against Epilepsy: time for reappraisal.

Recent advances in neurodiagnostic technology, new insights into fundamental neuronal mechanisms of epilepsy, and rapid developments in molecular genetics have greatly improved our understanding of epileptic seizures and epileptic disorders since 1981, when the current International Classification of Epileptic Seizures was adopted, and since 1989, when the International Classification of Epilepsies, Epileptic Syndromes, and Related Disorders was adopted. Although both have been universally accepted and have proven to be of considerable clinical value, it has become clear that more is needed for specific applications of growing importance, such as presurgical evaluation, clinical pharmacology trials, and epidemiological studies. Therefore, an International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) task force has evaluated the need for revising our current classification and terminology and has begun developing four specific documents. The first is a descriptive terminology for ictal phenomena, incorporating some of the concepts included in the preceding paper by Dr. Hans Luders; however, this will be a glossary, not a classification. The second is a classification of epileptic seizures based on known or presumed pathophysiological and anatomic substrates, to replace the current classification, which is based entirely on phenomenology. The third is a classification of epileptic syndromes and epileptic diseases, adapted from the current Classification of Epilepsies, Epileptic Syndromes, and Related Disorders, which will take into account the fact that disorders with unique etiologies, such as a single gene, should be considered diseases, and which will be reorganized for maximum practical application to differential diagnosis. The fourth is a new classification of functional disability due to seizures or epilepsy, based on a new impairment classification for neurological disorders being developed by the World Health Organization. Working groups are currently in the process of developing each of these documents, and their chairs would benefit from any comments or suggestions from those who ultimately will be using these systems of classification and terminology.
The effect of pressure on the excess enthalpies of cyclohexane + n-hexane at 298.15 K

Abstract Excess enthalpies have been measured at pressures of 1, 68.9, and 136.9 atm by means of a high-pressure flow calorimeter for cyclohexane + n -hexane at 298.15 K. An equation was derived from which the effect of pressure on the excess enthalpy can be calculated for pressures up to 136.9 atm. Excess enthalpies were also calculated from excess volumes and compared with directly measured enthalpies.
Antibacterial Activity of Cassia reticulata Willd

Extracts of Cassia reticilata Willd. inhibit the growth of some microorganisms when tested by the F. D. A. Agar Plate method. A dealcoholized extract, approximately 50 per cent in strength, partially inhibited the growth of E. coli, A. fecalis, S. lutea, P. vulgaris, S. typhosa, Ps. aeruginosa, M. pyogenes var. aureus, M. pyogenes var. albus, and S. pyogenes but failed to inhibit the growth of A. aerogenes, S. marcescens, B. subtilis, and H. influenzae. An aqueous extract was less active. Tests for anthra-quinones, emodin, and chrysophanic acid in C. reticulata leaflets were positive. The plant and the crude drug, the latter used in the preparation of the extracts for inhibitory activity, are described, And some new -characteristics are recorded.
Viability and sensorimotor development of mice exposed to prenatal short-term ethanol

The identification of the fetal alcohol syndrome in man has led to an abundant, but sometimes contradictory body of research examining the effects of prenatal ethanol exposure in animals. The present study examines the early sensorimotor development of heterogenous stock mice after ethanol exposure during one of two time periods in gestation, days 8--12, or days 14--18. Animals received either a liquid diet containing 20% ethanol derived calories, an isocalorically balanced yoked control diet or a lab chow control diet. Results indicated no apparent effects due to administration of alcohol during the middle of gestation, but a marked decrease in offspring viability, birthweight, and growth due to administration during the last part of gestation. The late gestation treatment group also showed a slight delay in the rate of development of the grasping and horizontal screen tasks. Overall, animals that survived showed relatively normal sensorimotor development.
Uptake and translocation of polymeric nanoparticulate drug delivery systems into ryegrass

This study focuses on the transport behavior of model polymeric nanoparticulate drug delivery systems (PNDDSs) across ryegrass roots to determine whether uncontrolled and accidental releases of PNDDSs may enter into the food chain. It was shown that uptake of PNDDS ranging from 46 nm to 271 nm into ryegrass roots could take place. Upon exposing ryegrass to an aqueous PNDDS dispersion for 312 h, 91 ± 6%, 64 ± 3%, and 26 ± 8% of PNDDSs were localized in and on the ryegrass for 46 nm, 159 nm, and 271 nm PNDDS, respectively. The overall transport of PNDDSs from the solution to the ryegrass could be modeled well as a first-order adsorption process, which was followed by a first-order uptake process. The adsorption of PNDDSs onto the roots was found to be much faster than the uptake of PNDDSs into the roots.
Mean-Variance Portfolia Optimization When Means and Covariances are Unknown

Markowitz’s celebrated mean-variance portfolio optimization theory assumes that the means and covariances of the underlying asset returns are known. In practice, they are unknown and have to be estimated from historical data. Plugging the estimates into the efficient frontier that assumes known parameters has led to portfolios that may perform poorly and have counter-intuitive asset allocation weights; this has been referred to as the "Markowitz optimization enigma." After reviewing different approaches in the literature to address these difficulties, we explain the root cause of the enigma and propose a new approach to resolve it. Not only is the new approach shown to provide substantial improvements over previous methods, but it also allows ﬂexible modeling to incorporate dynamic features and fundamental analysis of the training sample of historical data, as illustrated in simulation and empirical studies.
Apparent 85Kr ages of groundwater within the Royal watershed, Maine, USA.

Abstract Specific 85 Kr activity is mapped from 264 domestic and municipal wells sampled during 2002–2004 in the Royal watershed (361 km 2 ), Maine. Gas samples are collected at 20 m, 40 m, and >50 m interval depths within the unconfined aquifers. Gas extraction for 85 Kr from wells is obtained directly via a wellhead methodology avoiding conventional collection of large sample volumes. Atmospheric 85 Kr input to the recharge environment is estimated at 1.27 Bq m −3 by time-series analyses of weighted monthly precipitation (2001–2004). Numerical simulation of Kr gas transport through the variable unsaturated zones to the water table suggests up to 12-year time lags locally, thus biasing the 85 Kr groundwater ages. Apparent 85 Kr ages suggest that ≈70% of groundwater near 20 m depth was recharged less than 30 years BP (2004). Mass–age transport modeling suggests that post mid-1950s recharge penetrates to part of the basin's floor and that older groundwater seeps from the underlying fractured bedrock may occur.
Chronic exposure to morphine, but not ethanol, attenuates the expression of interleukin-1β converting enzyme in rat spleen

Abstract IL-1 β converting enzyme (ICE), a proteolytic enzyme that converts the inactive precursor of interleukin-1 β (IL-1 β ) to its mature active form, has been abundantly detected in the IL-1 β producing cells in the spleen. Since IL-1 β is a potent neuro-endocrine-immuno modulator, alterations in the production of IL-1 β by an exogenous factor, such as morphine or ethanol, may have deleterious effects on the system as a whole. In this study, we examined the expression of ICE in the spleens of rats given chronic treatment with morphine versus ethanol using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The expression of ICE in the spleen of rats given chronic morphine was clearly less than that of the animals given placebo, however, it was similar for both rats on ethanol and control diets. These data suggest that chronic use of morphine, but not ethanol, attenuates the expression of ICE in the spleen.
Alkylcyclohexanes in Environmental Geochemistry

The n -alkylated cyclohexanes (CHs) are a homologous series of hydrocarbon compounds that are commonly present in crude oil and refinery products such as diesel fuel. These compounds exhibit specific distribution patterns for different fuel types, providing useful fingerprints for characterizing petroleum products, especially after degradation of n -alkanes has occurred. However, there are no published data to show how these compounds are altered in the environment after long-term spillage of petroleum products. This paper presents two case studies of oil spills that demonstrate the changing distribution patterns resulting from long-term anaerobic microbial degradation. These spills are the 1979 crude-oil spill in Bemidji, Minnesota, and a chronic diesel-fuel spillage from 1953-1991 at Mandan, North Dakota. The alkyl CHs in both spilled oil products are affected by similar biodegradative processes in which the compounds undergo a consistent pattern of loss from the high molecular weight end of the homolog...
Combined Liver—Total Bowel Transplantation Has No Immunologic Advantage Over Total Bowel Transplantation Alone: A Prospective Study in a Porcine Model

Background: Rejection remains a major obstacle to successful bowel transplantation in humans. It has been suggested that a simultaneous liver transplant would shield the bowel graft from immunologic attack, but the liver shortage would be aggravated. In a preclinical model, we studied the influence of simultaneous liver grafting by comparing the incidence of early bowel rejection after combined liver—total (small- and large-) bowel transplants vs total bowel transplants alone. Methods: We assessed the incidence of early posttransplant rejection, graft-vs-host disease, and infection after combined liver—total bowel transplants (group 1, n=10) and total bowel transplants alone (group 2, n=9) in outbred Yorkshire Landrace pigs. Liver and bowel grafts were transplanted orthotopically with portal vein drainage after recipient hepatectomy (group 1) and total enterectomy (groups 1 and 2). Posttransplant immunosuppression was performed with intravenous tacrolimus (whole blood levels, 15 to 30 ng/mL) and prednisolone. In groups 1 and 2, bowel biopsy specimens from the ileostomy were obtained daily. In group 1, liver biopsy specimens were obtained weekly. Rejection was graded according to a 4-point scoring system (none, mild, moderate, and severe). Results: Overall graft survival at days 7, 14, and 21 was 89%, 44%, and 11%, respectively, in group 1 vs 100%, 100%, and 86%, respectively, in group 2 (P Conclusions: Simultaneous liver grafting did not further reduce the incidence of early bowel rejection or graft-vs-host disease when compared with total bowel transplants alone. Based on the results of this preclinical study, simultaneous liver grafting is not indicated for patients with short-bowel syndrome and normal liver function. Arch Surg. 1997;132:1077-1085
Discovery research: innovation and automation

Abstract Drug discovery involves identifying, characterizing, and validating the target, and designing potent and specific chemical leads. Every aspect of this process is undergoing a technical and conceptual revolution. Medicinal chemists are synthesizing combinatorial libraries to probe rapidly and efficiently the chemical structure-activity relationship (SAR). In addition, SAR tools that employ artificial intelligence are receiving a great deal of attention. Biochemists are finding sophisticated ways of characterizing the target's mechanism and determining the effect of structure on function. Cell biologists are probing the complexity of signal transduction and cellular trafficking. Molecular biologists have become more efficient at cloning and expressing target molecules. They are also attempting to sequence the entire human genome. Pharmacologists are evaluating the role of animal transgenics in the discovery process. As a results of some of these advances, there has been an increase in the number of assays performed and the quantity of information recorded; therefore, scientists must be innovative in their approach to target testing and employ all tools available to analyze and interpret this information. Our goal is to design robust and sensitive assays that can rapidly and quantitatively characterize the targets, and to perform detailed analyses on a very large number of chemical leads. This paper will address our vision of the role of automation and several new technologies in the drug discovery process.
An evaluation of Space Shuttle Orbiter forward fuselage surface pressures - Comparison with wind tunnel and theoretical predictions

In order for ground-based pressure distribution techniques to be verified by the actual performance of the Space Shuttle Orbiter in flight, a comparative study of flight pressure data and both wind tunnel and computational data is presented. The flight pressure data, obtained from measurements on the Orbiter's surface during atmospheric reentry, are part of the overall Orbiter flight data system designated Development Flight Instrumentation. Also given is an analysis of the Orbiter pressure data system, including its transducers, their behavior, and their calibration. The two analyses are the bases of an error assessment calculation for the flight data, as well as an explanation of any discrepancies between flight and ground-based data.
Key controls on accumulation and high production of large non-marine gas fields in northern Sichuan Basin

Abstract Based on the data from multiple sample analysis and tests and exploration practice, key factors controlling gas accumulation, enrichment and high production in the continental Triassic Xujiahe–Jurassic Ziliujing formations in Yuanba, Tongnanba and other areas, northern Sichuan Basin, were discussed. Natural gas in continental strata in this part of the basin are derived from the source rocks in the same strata, which are good – very good source rocks with high abundance of organic matter (mostly type III) and generally in high mature – overmature gas generating stage. Depending on provenance, multi-period (fan) delta systems are developed in the research area, where the main fluvial channel sands are superimposed in multi periods and distributed extensively, and reservoirs and source rocks form the “lower generation and upper storage” and “inter-bedded” assemblages. Five typical high-yield wells in the Jiulongshan, Malubei and Yuanba areas are investigated and an overall concept for exploration and research in the area is proposed: sedimentary source controls rock types, cementation types and sedimentary microfacies; source rocks control the size and location of gas accumulation; structural types control the magnitude and location of fractures; the combination of fracture and reservoir determines the level and retention duration of gas production. According to this model, the following areas have enriched gas and high production: Xu-3 and Xu-4 members of Xujiahe Formation in the western Yuanba and Jiange, Xu-4 member and Ziliujing Formation in the mid-eastern Yuanba, Zhenzhuchong and Xu-2 members in Malubei and Hebachang areas in the Tongnanba structure.
Do adherence variables predict outcome in an online program for the prevention of eating disorders

Unlike traditional interventions, Internet interventions allow for objective tracking and examination of the usage of program components. Student Bodies (SB), an online eating disorder (ED) prevention program, significantly reduced ED attitudes/behaviors in college-aged women with high body image concerns, and reduced the development of EDs in some higher risk subgroups. The authors investigated how adherence measures were associated with ED attitudes and behaviors after treatment. Female SB participants (n = 209) completed the Eating Disorders Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q; C. G. Fairburn & S. J. Beglin, 1994) at baseline, posttreatment, and 1-year follow-up. Total weeks participation and frequency of utilizing the online Web pages/journals predicted pre- to posttreatment changes in EDE-Q Restraint but not in other ED symptoms. In participants with some compensatory behaviors, discussion board and booster session use were associated with increased weight/shape concerns during follow-up. In overweight participants, higher online Web page/journal use was related to decreased EDE-Q Eating Concern scores during follow-up. This is the first study to investigate the relationship between adherence to specific program components and outcome in a successful Internet-based intervention. Results can be used to inform future development and tailoring of prevention interventions to maximize effectiveness and facilitate dissemination.
Preservice Elementary Teachers' Perceptions of Their Understanding of Inquiry and Inquiry-Based Science Pedagogy: Influence of an Elementary Science Education Methods Course and a Science Field Experience

Results of this study suggest that when multiple inquiry-based experiences, from guided to open inquiries, that challenge preservice teachers’ learning in a constructivist environment are integrated into the elementary science methods course, ePSTs not only develop an understanding of inquiry-based science instruction but also develop an appreciation for the benefits of teaching and learning science through inquiry in a constructivist environment, indicating comfort with using inquiry-based science teaching strategies in their own classroom practice when they become practicing teachers. Additionally, having ePSTs concurrently involved in field experiences which reinforce inquiry-based science pedagogy taught in the elementary science methods course helps preservice teachers conceptualize their own pedagogy in science and helps them start defining and accepting their changing role as a facilitator as envisioned in theNSES (NRC, 1996, 2000). However, even though the majority of the ePSTs in this study indicated their intent to use inquiry-based strategies to teach science in their classrooms and even though there is evidence in literature suggesting that a mathematics methods courses can change preservice teachers’ beliefs and attitudes to be more consistent with the current reform movement in mathematics (Wilkins & Brand, 2004), a follow-up study is needed to explore how many of these ePSTs actually incorporate inquiry-based science teaching into their classes. p ]This research study was limited in that it examined the perceptions of ePSTs regarding their understanding of scientific inquiry and inquiry-based science pedagogy after concurrently completing a traditional eSEM course and its associated science field experience at only one large Midwestern university campus. Not all campuses offer the eSEM course and the science field experience in the same semester. Also, this study did not examine the effect of gender, socioeconomic factors, or ethnicity on ePSTs’ understanding of inquiry or inquiry-based pedagogy to teach science as all of the participants were White females from upper middle class backgrounds.
Application of a variational principle to systems with radiation loss

A variational principle for the frequency of electromagnetic systems with radiation is derived from Maxwell's equations. Expressions for the quality factor Q are obtained in three illustrative examples: a leaky transmission line resonator, a grating coupler, and a curved slab waveguide. Extensive numerical results for the Q of the grating coupler are presented in normalized form. By optimization of the variational expressions with respect to the amplitudes of the forward and backward waves, coupled-mode equations are derived for a grating structure. The variational formulas agree with results obtained from a perturbational analysis.
Nonlinear analysis of a mitigating steel nose cone

Abstract The ability of a structure to mitigate energy associated with impacting hard surfaces plays a significant role in the design and survivability of internal components. This paper summarizes the design and analysis of an efficient nose cone for impacting rigid surfaces. A two-dimensional finite element quasistatic model, utilizing large displacement, large strain formulations, contact-impact surfaces and elastic-plastic material models, was used in the design-iteration phase of the study. Results from the analyses agreed with experimentally tested scaled nose cones, thus permitting the design changes which resulted in an efficient structure for axisymmetric loading to be completed in minimal time. A three-dimensional explicit, dynamic, finite element program was used in the evaluation of an asymmetrical static crush. The solution, obtained on a CRAY-1 computer also agreed extremely well with experimental tests. Efforts to model the material property variation with strain rate led to encouraging results and more work will be required in this area.
Effects of patterning on the interface toughness of wafer-level Cu–Cu bonds

Abstract The chevron test has been employed to characterize the toughness of patterned wafer-level Cu–Cu thermocompression bonds created at 300 °C, for pattern sizes ranging from 2 to 500 μm. Features oriented perpendicular to the debond propagation direction (lines and pads) exhibited a significant increase in toughness (from 3 to 30 J m −2 under mode I) with decreasing feature size (from 250 to 25 μm) for both mode I and mixed-mode loading, while no size-dependence was observed for debond propagation in the direction parallel to the bonded lines. The bond toughness was found to scale with the degree of discontinuity along the debond growth direction, due to greater energetic cost for multiple crack initiation events in the ductile bonded stack. Fractured surfaces of the discontinuous bonded interfaces exhibited ductile cohesive failure through the Cu film stack, signifying enhanced plastic energy dissipation leading to higher bond toughness.
Opportunities abound in HRM and innovation

Purpose – The paper examines research fronts in the areas of innovation and human resource management (HRM), specifically integrates them and offers potential for interesting, exciting and important research for scholars in the People's Republic of China and around the world. The paper aims to identify those roles and encourage researchers to consider pursuing them in Chinese HRM research. Design/methodology/approach – The paper takes the form of a literature review. Findings – It appears that virtually all countries and firms around the world today want to and need to become more innovative. Fortunately there are many aspects of HRM that can play important roles in fostering and facilitating innovation. The paper identifies a number of critical areas for research on the topic of Chinese HRM and innovation. These include HRM policies and practices clusters, types of innovation strategies and goals, organizational design, ownership types, stages of innovation, intervening mechanisms, and cultural differenc...
Fostering awareness of diversity and multiculturalism in adult and higher education

The authors use personal stories to discuss how race affects classroom dynamics and student interactions. In this chapter they focus on the role of emotions in the teaching-learning exchange, providing recommendations and strategies for fostering multiculturalism in the classroom.
The spin down of rotating stratified fluids

The transient process by which an incompressible dissipative rotating stratified fluid adjusts to a small change in the rotation rate of its container is examined theoretically. The aim is to clarify the effects of the imposed density stratification and of the boundary condition specified for the density perturbation on the behaviour of the fluid, particularly during the time span when the adjustment is performed in a homogeneous fluid. For a weakly stratified fluid in a cylinder, it is shown how these two factors govern the nature and intensity of boundary layers on the vertical wall which close the secondary meridional circulation generated by Ekman layers along the horizontal boundaries. For a more strongly stratified fluid, the usefulness and importance of potential vorticity conservation in determining the quasi-steady motion is verified, and a calculation for a spherical container demonstrates some new features that arise only when the container boundaries are not normal or parallel to the rotation axis. It is shown that experimental results of Holton (1965) are in less good agreement with predictions of the linear theory than had been previously indicated.
Blood pressure regulation IV: adaptive responses to weightlessness

During weightlessness, blood and fluids are immediately shifted from the lower to the upper body segments, and within the initial 2 weeks of spaceflight, brachial diastolic arterial pressure is reduced by 5 mmHg and even more so by some 10 mmHg from the first to the sixth month of flight. Blood pressure thus adapts in space to a level very similar to that of being supine on the ground. At the same time, stroke volume and cardiac output are increased and systemic vascular resistance decreased, whereas sympathetic nerve activity is kept surprisingly high and similar to when ground-based upright seated. This was not predicted from simulation models and indicates that dilatation of the arteriolar resistance vessels is caused by mechanisms other than a baroreflex-induced decrease in sympathetic nervous activity. Results of baroreflex studies in space indicate that compared to being ground-based supine, the carotid (vagal)-cardiac interaction is reduced and sympathetic nerve activity, heart rate and systemic vascular resistance response more pronounced during baroreflex inhibition by lower body negative pressure. The future challenge is to identify which spaceflight mechanism induces peripheral arteriolar dilatation, which could explain the decrease in blood pressure, the high sympathetic nerve activity and associated cardiovascular changes. It is also a challenge to determine the cardiovascular risk profile of astronauts during future long-duration deep space missions.
Electronic realisation of recurrent neural network for solving simultaneous linear equations

An electronic neural network for solving simultaneous linear equations is presented. The proposed electronic neural network is able to generate real-time solutions to large-scale problems. The operating characteristics of an opamp based neural network is demonstrated via an illustrative example.
Assessing landscape change in Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada, using multitemporal composites constructed from terrestrial repeat photographs

The objective of this paper is to investigate landscape level changes that have occurred in Waterton Lakes National Park (WLNP), Canada between the years 1914 and 2005 using digital image processing techniques usually associated with satellite image analysis. Multitemporal colour composites, image classification, and principal components analysis were used to process registered images of the montane ecotone from photographic pairs of Bellevue Hill, Horseshoe Basin and Lakeview Ridge. The resulting digital images offered insight into the spatial nature of the vegetation changes that have occurred over the last 90 years at these sites. Changes observed included increased forest cover through vertical migration and the infill of conifers and aspen both on the slopes and the valley bottoms of WLNP.
Damage Detection Based on Adaptive Estimation of Amplitude and Phase

This paper presents a novel structural health monitoring method that shows promise in identifying damage location within a structure while providing some means of indicating the severity of the damage. The proposed method is based on an adaptive sinusoid-tracking algorithm (STA), which is capable of tracking sinusoid parameters, namely amplitude, phase, and frequency. The proposed method makes use of the estimated amplitude and phase parameters obtained by processing strain recordings at individual sensors located along an excited structure to identify damage locations and severity. Damage indices have been developed that compare the tracked amplitude/phase from a baseline (or healthy) case to the tracked amplitude/phase from the structure under test at specific locations. The proposed methodology is applied to both simulated and experimental plates in a number of damage scenarios. The results of both simulated and experimental data indicate that the proposed method is promising in the detection of the damage, its location and its severity.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Issues in thin film PV manufacturing cost reduction

Thin film PV technologies face a number of hurdles as they advance towards low-cost goals that are competitive with traditional sources of electricity. The US Department of Energy cost goal for thin films is about $0.33/Wp, which is based on a module efficiency goal of about 15% and module manufacturing costs of about $50/m2. This paper investigates the issues associated with achieving the $50/m2 goal based on opportunities for manufacturing cost reductions. Key areas such as capital costs, deposition rates, layer thickness, materials costs, yields, substrates, and front and back end costs will be examined. Several prior studies support the potential of thin films to reach $50/m2. This paper will examine the necessary process research improvements needed in amorphous silicon, copper indium diselenide, cadmium telluride, and experimental thin film silicon PV technologies to reach this ambitious goal. One major conclusion is that materials costs must be reduced because they will dominate in mature technologies. Another is that module efficiency could be the overriding parameter if different thin films each optimize their manufacturing to a similar level.
Higgs boson decays to τ-pairs in the s-channel at a muon collider

Abstract We study the observability of the τ − τ + decay mode of a Higgs boson produced in the s -channel at a muon collider. We find that the spin correlations of the τ − τ + in τ → πν τ , ρν τ decays are discriminative between the Higgs boson signal and the Standard Model background. Observation of the predicted distinctive distribution can confirm the spin-0 nature of the Higgs resonance. The relative coupling strength of the Higgs boson to b and τ can also be experimentally determined.
Isolation and lipid composition of spinach chloroplast envelope membranes.

Abstract The double outer or envelope membranes, which have a role in CO 2 diffusion and metabolite transport during photosynthesis, were separated from intact spinach chloroplasts by osmotic shock. The envelope membranes were purified by differential centrifugation followed by centrifugation in a discontinuous sucrose gradient. Electron micrographs, enzymatic assays, and chemical analyses showed the envelope membranes were free of stromal, lamellar, mitochondrial, and bacterial contamination. The envelope membrane had a density of 1.10 g cm −3 and a mg lipid/mg protein ratio of 0.78. The lipid composition of the envelope membranes was distinct from that of the lamellar membranes. The major and minor lipids of both membranes were glycolipids and phospholipids, respectively. The envelope membranes contained more monogalactosyldiglyceride, digalactosyldiglyceride, and phosphatidylcholine and less sulfolipid and phosphatidylglycerol than the lamellar membranes. Lipids present exclusively in the envelope membranes were cerebroside (shown for the first time to be a chloroplast lipid), sterylglycoside, acylated sterylglycoside, phosphatidylethanolamine, sterol, and steryl esters. Other lipids identified in the envelope membranes were trigalactosyldiglyceride, phosphatidylinositol, diphosphatidylglycerol, lysophosphatidylcholine, quinone, fatty acids and their methyl esters, and triglycerides. Approximately 90% of the total lipids were accounted for. The large difference in lipid composition between the two kinds of chloroplast membranes probably reflects fundamental differences between their functions in the photosynthetic process.
Dimensional recursion for multivariate adaptive integration

We consider multivariate integrals which can be expressed as iterated integrals over product regions. The iteration over the dimensions is applied recursively for a numerical evaluation. We evaluate a scheme for setting the tolerated error in the interface between the integration levels and address the efficiency of the resulting method with respect to time and space requirements.
The synthesis of estrogens in the gonads of the chick embryo

Abstract Gonads of 2.0- to 20.5-day-old chick embryos and 1-day posthatch chicks (Day 21.5) were examined immunocytochemically for the presence of estrone and 17β-estradiol. Both estrone and 17β-estradiol were first observed in approximately equal amounts in the interstitial cells of indifferent gonalds of both sexes on Day 3.5 of incubation. This is 3.0 days prior to the morphological differentiation of these gonads into either testes or ovaries on Day 6.5. On Day 6.5 estrone first appeared in the medullary (primary) cords of all gonalds, at which time left ovaries exhibited a greater amount of estrone and 17β-estradiol than did testes. Day 13.5 was the time of initial appearance of estrone and 17β-estradiol in the cortical (secondary) cords and cortical interstitial cells of left ovaries. Estrone was the predominant estrogen synthesized by left ovaries and testes throughout embryonic development. Also, estrone and 17β-estradiol were synthesized in greater quantities by left ovaries than right ovaries or testes. Results are discussed in terms of Wolff's and Willier's theories of gonadal sex differentiation, as well as the growth profile of the female left Mullerian duct.
Estimating Root Length Density by the Core-Break Method

The core-break technique, in which the number of roots visible at a broken cross section of a soil core is used to estimate rooting, was evaluated as a means of measuring RLD. Root systems of wheat, Triticum aestivum L., cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., and sorghum, Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench, were sampled and core-break root counts regressed on RLD measured in the same soil core. (...)