cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Avatar Personalization: Towards the Enhancement of Competence Beliefs

The authors explored the influence of avatar personalization on students' competence beliefs in a virtual world-based assessment environment. The avatar personalization options allowed seventh and eighth grade students (n = 110) to customize the appearance of their avatar and provided them with the option to personalize their in-world conversations by choosing a name for their avatar. Based on self-determination theory the authors hypothesized that the personalization in a virtual-world environment would influence students' motivation to engage by stimulating their situational interest and enable positive competence beliefs and deeper engagement. The results indicated that personalization stimulated situational interest and situational interest significantly predicted competence beliefs. This research contributes to the body of literature on the personalization principle by extending this work to a virtual environment. The findings highlight the importance of addressing students' affective needs and illustrate the value of interest; which can potentially influence students' attitudes towards testing and towards science.
The origin of brain stem-spinal projections at different stages of development in the North American opossum ☆

The origin of brain stem neurons giving rise to axons innervating the thoracic cord has been determined in a developmental series of pouch-young opossums. The first spinal axons identified (17 days after conception, postnatal day 5) arise from the medullary and pontine reticular formation, certain raphe nuclei, the vestibular nuclei and the coeruleus complex. The contribution of the red nucleus before postnatal day 10 is not certain. The brain stem sensory relay nuclei and the hypothalamus do not project spinalwards until much later in development.
The PIRLA project (Paleoecological Investigation of Recent Lake Acidification): an introduction to the synthesis of the project

Collected sets of papers synthesizing data derived from the PIRLA project (Paleoecological Investigation of Recent Lake Acidification) will appear in coming issues of the Journal of Paleolimnology. This paper is designed to highlight these forthcoming papers, review the development and objectives of PIRLA, and acknowledge the many who have supported PIRLA in so many crucial ways.
A continuous damage random thresholds model for simulating the fracture behavior of nacre

This study investigates the fracture properties of nacre using a discrete lattice model based on continuous damage random threshold fuse network. The discrete lattice topology of the model is based on nacre's unique brick and mortar microarchitecture. The mechanical behavior of each of the bonds in the discrete lattice model is governed by the characteristic modular damage evolution of the organic matrix and the mineral bridges between the aragonite platelets. The numerical results obtained using this simple discrete lattice model are in very good agreement with the previously obtained experimental results, such as nacre's stiffness, tensile strength, and work of fracture. The analysis indicates that nacre's superior toughness is a direct consequence of ductility (maximum shear strain) of the organic matrix in terms of repeated unfolding of protein molecules, and its fracture strength is a result of its ordered brick and mortar architecture with significant overlap of the platelets, and shear strength of the organic matrix.
An efficient method for solving implicit and explicit stiff differential equations

When the s-stage fully implicit Runge–Kutta (RK) method is used to solve a system of n ordinary differential equations (ODE) the resulting algebraic system has a dimension ns. Its solution by Gauss elimination is expensive and requires 2s3n3/3 operations. In this paper we present an efficient algorithm, which differs from the traditional RK method. The formal procedure for uncoupling the algebraic system into a block-diagonal matrix with s blocks of size n is derived for any s. Its solution is s2/2 times faster than the original, nondiagonalized system, for s even, and s3/(s−1) for s odd in terms of number of multiplications, as well as s2 times in terms of number of additions/multiplications. In particular, for s=3 the method has the same precision and stability properties as the well-known RK-based RadauIIA quadrature of Ehle, implemented by Hairer and Wanner in RADAU5 algorithm. Unlike RADAU5, however, the method is applicable with any s and not only to the explicit ODEs My′=f(x, y), where M=const., but also to the general implicit ODEs of the form f(x, y, y′)=0. The block-diagonal form of the algebraic system allows parallel processing. The algorithm formally differs from the implicit RK methods in that the solution for y is assumed to have a form of the algebraic polynomial whose coefficients are found by enforcing y to satisfy the differential equation at the collocation points. Locations of those points are found from the derived stability function such as to guarantee either A- or L-stability properties as well as a superior precision of the algorithm. If constructed such as to be L-stable the method is a good candidate for solving differential-algebraic equations (DAEs). Although not limited to any specific field, the application of the method is illustrated by its implementation in the multibody dynamics described by both ODEs and DAEs. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanistic analysis of fatigue crack initiation in medium-density polyethylene

Kinetics parameters of craze evolution preceding fatigue crack initiation (FCI) in mediumdensity polyethylene (MDPE) pipe materials were determined and analysed within fracture mechanics theory. A single craze initially preceded the notch tip, a root craze, which subsequently became accompanied by a few side crazes. Crack initiation transpired after the craze-zone growth had reached its fully developed configuration. The length of the root craze of the fully developed zone was found to be equal to the length of the first discontinuous crack band on the fracture surface. The growth of the root-craze length and the crack-tip opening displacement (CTOD) followed a power law over the major portion (94%) of the FCI time. Measurable rupture of the craze material was only noted within the final portion of the FCI time and was associated with exponential increase of the CTOD. The Dugdale/Barenblatt model overestimated the craze length by 30% and underestimated the CTOD by 50% which was hypothesized to be due to multiple crazing at the notch tip.
Students with Learning Disabilities in the University Environment A Study of Faculty and Student Perceptions

This study examines faculty and student perceptions regarding university students with learning disabilities, sensitivity to such students' special needs, accommodations, and the perceived impact of a learning disability. Results reveal a general sensitivity to the special needs of students with learning disabilities; however, group differences suggest several areas warranting further attention.
Crystallization and gelation of isotactic poly (4-methyl-1-pentene) in n-pentane and in n-pentane + CO2 at high pressures

Abstract High pressure miscibility and phase separation of isotactic poly (4-methyl-1-pentene) in n -pentane and n -pentane + carbon dioxide mixtures have been studied in the pressure range from 10 to 50 MPa. For solutions containing 1.0, 3.0, 4.6 and 6.5 wt.% polymer in n -pentane no liquid–liquid phase separation was observed over a temperature range from 298 to 423 K. The fluid–solid phase boundaries (crystallization and melting temperatures) for these solutions were determined at a range of selected pressures. The experiments in n -pentane + CO 2 were carried out with a 4.6 wt.% polymer solution containing 5, 10, 20, 40 and 50 wt.% CO 2 . In the systems containing 5–20 wt.% CO 2 , no liquid–liquid phase separation boundary could be identified. In solutions containing 40 and 50% carbon dioxide, instead of crystallization, a sol–gel type phase transformation was observed. NMR characterization showed that the original polymer was of crystal modification Form I with a DSC melting transition at 506 K. When the polymer is recrystallized from n -pentane at ambient pressures, it transforms to Form III displaying a DSC endotherm at 347 K, and a multiple melting endotherm clustered around 506 K. When recrystallized at higher pressures, it transforms to Form II crystal modification, in which the 347 K endotherm disappears, but an endotherm at 406 K appears. Crystallization in solutions containing up to 20 wt.% carbon dioxide led to Form II crystal modification. The polymer samples collected after sol–gel transformation showed crystalline features of Form I. The SEM results revealed that the polymer transforms from a lacy appearance after crystallization in n -pentane to more porous structures in after sol–gel transformation in n -pentane + carbon dioxide solutions.
Synthesis of Polyethylene Magnetic Nanoparticles

ABSTRACT Very low molecular weight polyethylene (average MW 700 g/mole) magnetic nanocomposite particles were synthesized by nonsolvent and temperature induced crystallization along with ultrasonication. The particles are further coated with poly dl-lactic acid to functionalize the polyethylene particles for biomedical applications. A solvent-nonsolvent emulsion was made with polyethylene and surface modified iron oxide and was raised to very high temperature followed by rapid cooling. Decalin and octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (OMCTS) were used as solvent and tetraglyme as nonsolvent. The synthesized particles were found to have two different types of morphology. Particles sizes can be varied depending on the choice of solvent, polymer concentration and amplitude of ultrasonication. The composite particles were characterized by scanning transmission electron microscopy. Magnetic properties of the composite particles were also studied.
The relation of glycaemia to the risk of development and progression of retinopathy in the Diabetic Control and Complications Trial.

We have assessed the relation between the quarterly capillary glucose profile and the risk of the development and progression of retinopathy in the DCCT. Seven point (preprandial and 90-min postprandial for each meal and bedtime) capillary glucose data were analysed from volunteers whose collections were complete in 80 %, or more, of quarterly periods and who were in the study longer than 4 years (n = 296, conventional therapy; n = 269, intensive therapy). The study cohort differed from excluded patients in having more women and lower HbA1 c at baseline and fewer adolescents, older age and lower baseline mean blood glucose in the intensive therapy group. Univariate analysis showed significant (p < 0.01) associations to sustained 3-step change in retinopathy of each updated glycaemic parameter: mean blood glucose, mean preprandial glucose, mean postprandial glucose, each preprandial, postprandial and bedtime glucose; range glucose, standard deviation glucose; M-value of Schlichtkrull and mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions, albeit with relatively small hazard ratios. Multivariate analyses showed updated mean blood glucose to be the primary risk factor (p < 0.001) with a weak contribution of mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions at baseline (p < 0.005); no other variables added significantly to the model. The association between updated mean blood glucose and risk for retinopathy was nonlinear: risk progressively increased above updated mean blood glucose of 8.3 mmol/l. A gradient of risk could not be determined below this level because events were few. Within the limitations provided by quarterly 7-point capillary glucose measurements as an expression of overall glycaemic behaviour, the major risk for progression of retinopathy is conveyed by updated mean blood glucose especially above 8.3 mmol/l. [Diabetologia (2001) 44: 1215–1220]
Diphenhydramine kinetics following intravenous, oral, and sublingual dimenhydrinate administration

Eight healthy volunteers received 50 mg of dimenhydrinate, a theoclate salt of diphenhydramine, orally, sublingually, and intravenously on three separate occasions in random sequence. Plasma diphenhydramine concentrations during 12 h after each dose were measured by gas-liquid chromatography with nitrogen-phosphorous detection. Mean peak plasma concentrations after sublingual administration were slightly lower than after oral dosage (38.3 vs 47.8 ng ml-1), and the time of peak concentration was similar (2.6 vs 2.3 h after dose). These differences did not reach statistical significance. The mean total area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) for sublingual administration was slightly but not significantly smaller than after oral dosage (221 vs 270 h ng ml-1). Systemic availability of diphenhydramine after sublingual dimenhydrinate, measured by the ratio of oral AUC to intravenous AUC, was slightly less than after oral dimenhydrinate (0.58 vs 0.69, NS), and both were significantly less than 1.0. Thus sublingual and oral administration of dimenhydrinate result in comparable, but incomplete, systemic availability of diphenhydramine.
Performance comparison of 1.5-T endorectal coil MRI with 3.0-T nonendorectal coil MRI in patients with prostate cancer.

Rationale and Objectives To compare prostate morphology, image quality, and diagnostic performance of 1.5-T endorectal coil magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (MRI) and 3.0-T nonendorectal coil MRI in patients with prostate cancer. Materials and Methods MR images obtained of 83 patients with prostate cancer using 1.5-T MRI systems with an endorectal coil were compared to images collected from 83 patients with a 3.0-T MRI system. Prostate diameters were measured, and image quality was evaluated by one American Board of Radiology (ABR)–certified radiologist (reader 1) and one ABR-certified diagnostic medical physicist (reader 2). The likelihood of the presence of peripheral zone cancer in each sextant and local extent was rated and compared to histopathologic findings. Results Prostate anterior–posterior diameter measured by both readers was significantly shorter with 1.5-T endorectal MRI than with 3.0-T MRI. The overall image quality score difference was significant only for reader 1. Both readers found that the two MRI systems provided a similar diagnostic accuracy in cancer localization, extraprostatic extension, and seminal vesicle involvement. Conclusions Nonendorectal coil 3.0-T MRI provides prostate images that are natural in shape and that have comparable image quality to those obtained at 1.5 T with an endorectal coil, but not superior diagnostic performance. These findings suggest an opportunity exists for improving technical aspects of the 3.0-T prostate MRI.
Invertase Activity in Normal and Mutant Maize Endosperms during Development

A bound invertase and two soluble invertases are found in the developing endosperm of maize (Zea mays L.). The two soluble invertases can be separated on diethylaminoethyl-cellulose and Sephadex columns and distinguished by their kinetic constants. One soluble invertase, invertase I, is present from the 10- to 28-day stages of endosperm development with maximal activity per normal endosperm at the 12-day stage. In two endosperm mutant lines, shrunken-1 and shrunken-2, there is a second increase in invertase I activity later in development which could be a secondary effect caused by the abnormal metabolism in these lines. Another soluble invertase, invertase II, is present in the embryo upon germination and is also found in the very young developing endosperm (6-day stage). The third form of invertase, bound invertase, is present in the endosperm by the 6-day stage, and its activity remains approximately constant during development.
Reports of chimpanzee natural history, including tool use, in 16th- and 17th-century Sierra Leone

Several Portuguese language sources from the 16th and 17th centuries document observations of chimpanzees in Sierra Leone, made by Eur-African traders, Jesuit priests, and their informants. They detail both naturalistic observations of chimpanzees and a unique record of historical perceptions and folklore of chimpanzee behavior and physical traits. In particular, a description of chimpanzees using stone hammers to crack open oil palm nuts is the earliest record of such behavior.
Medication coaching program for patients with minor stroke or TIA: A pilot study

Patients who are hospitalized with a first or recurrent stroke often are discharged with new medications or adjustment to the doses of pre-admission medications, which can be confusing and pose safety issues if misunderstood. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of medication coaching via telephone after discharge in patients with stroke. Two-arm pilot study of a medication coaching program with 30 patients (20 intervention, 10 control). Consecutive patients admitted with stroke or TIA with at least 2 medications changed between admission and discharge were included. The medication coach contacted intervention arm patients post-discharge via phone call to discuss risk factors, review medications and triage patients’ questions to a stroke nurse and/or pharmacist. Intervention and control participants were contacted at 3 months for outcomes. The main outcomes were feasibility (appropriateness of script, ability to reach participants, and provide requested information) and participant evaluation of medication coaching. The median lengths of the coaching and follow-up calls with requested answers to these questions were 27 minutes and 12 minutes, respectively, and participant evaluations of the coaching were positive. The intervention participants were more likely to have seen their primary care provider than were control participants by 3 months post discharge. This medication coaching study executed early after discharge demonstrated feasibility of coaching and educating stroke patients with a trained coach. Results from our small pilot showed a possible trend towards improved appointment-keeping with primary care providers in those who received coaching.
Electron Capture and Alpha Decay of Np 235

The electron capture and alpha decay of ${\mathrm{Np}}^{235}$ have been investigated. An $\frac{L}{K}$ capture ratio of 30\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2 is found from absolute $L$ and $K$ x-ray measurements. No gamma rays are observed in the electron capture decay of ${\mathrm{Np}}^{235}$. An alpha branching ratio of (3.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.4)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$ was measured for this nuclide. The alpha particles have coincident 26- and 85-kev gamma rays with an intensity of 0.054\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.005 gamma per alpha disintegration for the 85-kev gamma ray. The intensity of the 26-kev gamma ray is comparable, although somewhat more uncertain.
Inside money and real output

Abstract An example shows that anticipated, non-neutral, monetary policy disturbances can result in correlation between real output and lagged inside money that is observationally equivalent to the ‘real business cycle’ interpretation.
Assessment and Intervention for Academic Task Attack Strategy Competencies

Many students who underachieve in schools may not be learning as effectively as they could. Direct assessments such as the Academic Competence Evaluation Scales (ACES), School Motivation and Learning Strategies Inventory (SMALSI), and the Academic Task Attack Checklist System (ATACS) can be used to evaluate students’ knowledge and use of strategies that facilitate learning. Research indicates that evidence-based intervention programs that focus on academic task attack strategies (e.g., Challenging Horizons Program (CHP), Testbusters Program, Solution Shop, and Homework, Organization and Planning Skills (HOPS) interventions) have resulted in improved academic outcomes. The purposes of this article are to provide an introduction to the literature on students’ use of academic task attack strategies, to present methods of assessment, and to describe research on selected interventions in a three-tiered model.
Valproate is associated with new-onset oligoamenorrhea with hyperandrogenism in women with bipolar disorder.

Background Preliminary evidence suggests that valproate is associated with isolated features of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), while contradictory data support an association between epilepsy and PCOS. The development of PCOS features after initiation of valproate was therefore examined in women with bipolar disorder using a standardized definition of PCOS. Methods Three hundred women 18 to 45 years old with bipolar disorder were evaluated for PCOS at 16 Systematic Treatment Enhancement for Bipolar Disorder sites. A comparison was made between the incidence of hyperandrogenism (hirsutism, acne, male-pattern alopecia, elevated androgens) with oligoamenorrhea that developed while taking valproate versus other anticonvulsants (lamotrigine, topiramate, gabapentin, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine) and lithium. Medication and menstrual cycle histories were obtained, and hyperandrogenism was assessed. Results Among 230 women who could be evaluated, oligoamenorrhea with hyperandrogenism developed in 9 (10.5%) of 86 women on valproate and in 2 (1.4%) of 144 women on a nonvalproate anticonvulsant or lithium (relative risk 7.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.7–34.1, p = .002). Oligoamenorrhea always began within 12 months of valproate use. Conclusions Valproate is associated with new-onset oligoamenorrhea with hyperandrogenism. Monitoring for reproductive-endocrine abnormalities is important when starting and using valproate in reproductive-aged women. Prospective studies are needed to elucidate risk factors for development of PCOS on valproate.
CATALASE ACTIVITY AND SEX IN PLANTS

A review of the literature indicates that a number of the workers on catalase have come to the conclusion that this enzym, while possibly not directly connected with, is nevertheless a valuable indicator of, plant metabolism. The present study of catalase activity was made to shed light, if possible, on the relation between the sexual expression of plants and the general metabolic level of the sexual parts, or the structures associated with them.
Estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) mRNA and protein in serotonin neurons of macaques

This study used double in situ hybridization (ISH) to examine the colocalization of estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) mRNA in serotonin neurons of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). In addition, immunocytochemistry (ICC) was used to examine the expression and regulation of ERβ protein in raphe neurons of the macaque midbrain. For double ISH, monkey specific riboprobes for ERβ incorporating radiolabeled-UTP and a riboprobe for the human serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) incorporating digoxigenin were applied to midbrain sections from spayed rhesus macaques. ERβ mRNA hybridization signal was expressed in most cells containing SERT mRNA in the dorsal and median raphe and pons. There were also non-SERT neurons expressing ERβ mRNA. In addition, ERβ protein was detected with an affinity purified polyclonal antibody generated against a synthetic peptide corresponding to the D domain of human ERβ conjugated to bovine serum albumin (provided by Dr. Philippa Saunders, MRC, Edinburgh). Midbrain sections containing the dorsal raphe from spayed rhesus macaques with and without hormone replacement therapy were processed for ERβ immunostaining. ERβ protein was detected at a similar intensity and in a similar number of cells in the dorsal raphe neurons in all treatment groups. Thus, the expression of ERβ protein in the dorsal raphe was consistent with the expression of ERβ mRNA. In conclusion, ERβ mRNA is expressed by serotonin neurons and it is translated to protein. ERβ protein, like ERβ mRNA, is detected at similar levels in the presence or absence of ovarian hormones.
Cloud aided semi-active suspension control

This paper considers the problem of vehicle suspension control from the perspective of a Vehicle-to-Cloud-to-Vehicle (V2C2V) distributed implementation. A simplified variant of the problem is examined based on the linear quarter-car model of semi-active suspension dynamics. Road disturbance is modeled as a combination of a known road profile, an unmeasured stochastic road profile and potholes. Suspension response when the vehicle hits the pothole is modeled as an impulsive change in wheel velocity with magnitude linked to physical characteristics of the pothole and of the vehicle. The problem of selecting the optimal damping mode from a finite set of damping modes is considered, based on road profile data. The information flow and V2C2V implementation are defined based on partitioning the computations and data between the vehicle and the cloud. A simulation example is presented.
GOALI: A National Science Foundation University-Industry Liaison Program

A major objectiveof theNational ScienceFoundation (NSF) is to improve the nation's capacity for intellectual and economic growth. It does this by supporting the discovery of new knowledge and the enhancement of a skilled workforce. Both outcomes are supported by the different mechanisms of industry-university linkages available in NSF's GOALI initiative. By addressing long-term, generic research within an intellectual envelope shared by the industrial partner, the intellectual capital of academe and emerging technologies from industry are brought together in ways that increase the value to both partners. Industry can leverage its research investment, and university researchers can gain access to new technical challenges.
Drawing and extrusion of superplastic metals through cone-shaped dies

Abstract Closed-form solutions are obtained for the stress and die pressure distributions, time and flow rates for drawing and extruding superplastic cylinders through a cone-shaped die with Coulomb friction. Numerical examples are presented graphically and the possible existence of a maximum limit for area reduction in the drawing process is pointed out and discussed.
The stabilization of calf-brain microtubule protein by sucrose☆

Abstract A sucrose solution has been used as a stabilizing medium for the colchicine-binding activity of microtubule protein isolated from calf brain. The sucrose itself is shown not to interfere with the binding ability and the protein could be stored below 0 °C in the sucrose solution for at least 2 weeks without any significant loss of colchicine-binding activity.
The effect of mono- and divalent cations on the quantum yields for electron transport in chloroplasts

Abstract We have previously shown (Gross, E. L. and Hess, S. C. (1973) Arch. Biochem. Biophys 159, 832–836) that low concentrations of monovalent cations (3–10 mM) caused changes in chlorophyall a fluorescence indicative of a transfer of excitation energy from Photosystem II to Photosystem I. These effects were reversed by divalent cations or higher concentrations of monovalent cations. In this study, we have examined the effects of cations on the relative quantum yields for Photosystem II (dichlorophenolindophenol reduction) and Photosystem I (diphenylcarbazone disproportionation) with the following results. 1. (1) Low concentrations of monovalent cations decreased the quantum yield for dichlorophenolindophenol reduction and increased that for diphenylcarbazone disproportionation. These results confirm that cations promote excitation energy transfer to Photosystem I. 2. (2) Higher concentrations of monovalent cations (30–100 mM) had no effect on electron transport. Therefore, the increases in chlorophyll a fluorescence observed at these concentrations may be due to a decrease in the rate constant for radiationless decay. 3. (3) In the absence of Tricine, divalent cations also promote energy transfer from the light harvesting pigments to Photosystem I. However, a direct inhibition of Photosystem II photochemistry cannot be ruled out. 4. (4) Tricine biases the system in favor of Photosystem I and divalent cations can reverse the Tricine effects.
Rapid quantification of the activating effects of hydrogen-bonding catalysts with a colorimetric sensor.

A sensor has been developed to quickly and simply assess the relative reactivity of different hydrogen-bonding catalysts. Specifically, blue-shifts seen upon treatment of H-bonding catalysts with the colorimetric compound 7-methyl-2-phenylimidazo[1,2-a]pyrazin-3(7H)-one correlate well to the Keq of binding to the sensor. The blue-shifts also show a high degree of correlation with relative rates in Diels–Alder reactions of methyl vinyl ketone and cyclopentadiene employing the H-bonding catalysts. The relevance of the sensor blue-shifts to the LUMO-lowering abilities of the H-bonding catalysts is discussed.
Seeking serendipity: The paradox of control

Purpose – This paper aims to present selected findings of a recent study of serendipity in information seeking, exploring the paradox of control inherent in the concept of “seeking serendipity”.Design/methodology/approach – After providing an overview of the research study, the paper locates the research findings in the context of the literature. The discussion explores the research findings in relation to both the paradox of control and the related concept of “seeking serendipity”.Findings – The definition/description of serendipity is examined, the concept of process‐perception duality is introduced, and links with the literature are explored. The discussion reassesses the paradox of control in light of the research findings, raising the possibility that information literacy educators have a role to play in developing the perception aspect of serendipity.Practical implications – The paper proposes that, despite the possibly uncomfortable challenges presented by the paradox of control, serendipity deserv...
Manipulation and expression of the maize zein storage proteins in Escherichia coli

Abstract The cDNA sequence for the mature form of the zein protein A20 was inserted into the lac cloning region of two different M13mp phage vectors. Translation of these recombinant phage in E. coli cells produced a β-galactosidase—zein fusion protein. Another zein clone was constructed in which the entire coding sequence, including that of the signal peptide, was cloned into a M13mp vector. This clone was designed to produce a pre-zein protein which did not contain any β-galactosidase amino acids. Expression of these phage-coded proteins in E. coli cells was detected on Western blots using zein antibodies. Expression of the β-galactosidase—zein fusion protein was extremely low, comprising less than 1% of the total E. coli proteins. Levels of expression were increased slightly when this same sequence was cloned into a pUC-derived expression plasmid containing the highly efficient trp—lac promoter.
Closed-loop multilevel control of large nonlinear systems via invariant imbedding techniques

Abstract An efficient multilevel control technique is developed whereby the closed-loop control policy is derived for a wide class of large non-linear dynamic systems using the invariant imbedding algorithms. The basic idea behind the developed technique is the decomposition-coordination procedure of hierarchical multilevel systems theory. Modification of the local subproblems at the first level results in the requirement of solving essentially the dynamic state equations as well as the Ricatti-like ordinary matrix equations. At the second level the coordinator updates the intervention parameters using a conjugate gradient algorithm. A principal feature of the developed technique is reflected in the possibility of being implemented in a real-time. Computer simulation of practical system applications greatly supports the potentiality of the developed two-level optimization technique.
Optimal simultaneous structural and control design of maneuvering flexible spacecraft

An optimization problem for maneuvering flexible spacecraft is discussed wherein both structural parameters and active control forces are to be determined so that a specific cost functional is minimized. The problem is an application of the general theory of optimal control of parametric systems. For simplicity, only maneuvers from a specified initial state to a specified final state in a specified time interval are considered. Numerical examples are presented for single-axis slew maneuvers of a symmetric four-boom flexible structure. The mass and stiffness distributions of the booms are determined as part of the optimization problem.
Performance Analysis of Optimum Zero-Forcing Beamforming with Greedy User Selection

In this letter, an exact performance analysis is presented on the sum rate of zero-forcing beamforming with a greedy user selection algorithm in a downlink system. Adopting water-filling power allocation, we derive a compact form for the joint probability density function of the scheduled users' squared subchannel gains when a transmitter with multiple antennas sends information to at most two scheduled users with each having a single antenna. The analysis is verified by numerical results.
Effects of Sex Hormones and Antifertility Steroids on Brain Thresholds in the Rabbit

A study of the effects of antifertility norsteroids and progesterone derivatives on brain function in the rabbit reveals that in ovulation-blocking dosages both types of steroid elevate the threshold of an electrically stimulated cerebral response called the EEG afterreaction. This response includes phases of slow wave sleep and paradoxical sleep. In anti-ovulatory dosages the norsteroids fail to influence the threshold of a second response known as EEG arousal. The natural and synthetic progesterone derivatives generally synergize with estrogen to exert biphasic influences on both responses, an initial depression followed by an elevation in threshold. The long-acting derivatives prolong both phases of the biphasic response. In the absence of estrogen, only the second or elevated phase is activated by the progesterone derivatives. In most instances the EEG arousal threshold changes are more closely related to estrous behavior than to blockade of pituitary-gonad function, whereas the EEG afterreaction thre...
A sparse proximal implementation of the LP dual active set algorithm

We present an implementation of the LP Dual Active Set Algorithm (LP DASA) based on a quadratic proximal approximation, a strategy for dropping inactive equations from the constraints, and recently developed algorithms for updating a sparse Cholesky factorization after a low-rank change. Although our main focus is linear programming, the first and second-order proximal techniques that we develop are applicable to general concave–convex Lagrangians and to linear equality and inequality constraints. We use Netlib LP test problems to compare our proximal implementation of LP DASA to Simplex and Barrier algorithms as implemented in CPLEX.
Unpacking the relationships between learning mechanisms, culture types, and plant performance

This study examines relationships between two learning mechanisms—conceptual learning and operational learning—and plant performance. It examines the individual and mediation effects of these two learning mechanisms on plant performance. It also examines the effects of individualism/collectivism cultural dimension on learning mechanisms. Based on a survey sample of 162 manufacturing plants, results of this study provide empirical evidence for the positive individual effects of operational learning and conceptual learning on plant performance. Further, operational learning mediates the effect of conceptual learning on plant performance. More interestingly, this study found that the indirect effect of conceptual learning is stronger under a collectivism culture than individualism culture. We conclude this study by discussing theoretical and managerial implications pertaining to the effects of learning mechanisms and cultural context on plant performance.
The democratic classroom: Mistake or misnomer

(1986). The democratic classroom: Mistake or misnomer. Theory Into Practice: Vol. 26, Educational Perspectives, Then and Now, pp. 480-489.
Burden: The Phenomenon of Mothering With HIV

If most mothers continually struggle to comply with perceptions of the "good mother" in the face of fatigue, self-doubt, and overwhelming emotion, what must the experience be like for HIV-infected women with dependent children to live and to mother day-to-day with an increasingly chronic, but still fatal, disease? The purpose of this phenomenological study was to gain an understanding of the mothering and end-of-life issues faced by HIV-infected women with dependent children. Sixteen HIV-infected women reflecting diversity of ethnicity, age, number and ages of children, and health status were interviewed in depth. A phenomenon of mothering with HIV revealed a constitutive pattern of burden. Themes revealed were the burden of the diagnosis and health status, the burden of whether or not to reveal to children, the burden of an unknown future for themselves and their children, and relieving the burden of the diagnosis.
The 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase of Aspergillus nidulans

Abstract The 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) of the filamentous fungus Aspergillus nidulans has been analyzed to further characterize the regulatory aspects of ergosterol biosynthesis. The supernatant contained approximately 95% of the total recovered activity following centrifugation (8000g) of homogenized cells. Following ultracentrifugation (105, 000g), total activity was evenly distributed between the supernatant and pellet, although specific activity was 2.5-fold higher in the pellet. The enzyme possessed a pH optimum at pH 7.0, along with a second peak at pH 5.5. The V max was 328 pmol NADPH oxidized per minute, and the apparent K m for dl -HMG-CoA was 28.5 μ M . Consistent with the pattern of sterol production, HMGR specific activity was highest during rapid growth and decreased during stationary phase. This pattern is different from that observed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and suggests that the regulation of ergosterol biosynthesis in A. nidulans is quite different from that observed in yeast. Addition of exogenous ergosterol (1–10 μg/ml) to the medium (in the presence of the sterol synthesis inhibitor micronazole) caused at 31–36% decrease in HMGR specific activity in culture extracts. This reaction to ergosterol (or a metabolic by-product) suggested that A. nidulans may utilize a regulatory response analogous to that reported in animal cells.
Grain boundary accommodation of slip in Ni3Al containing boron

Abstract Experiments at room temperature have established that the addition of 750 ppm by weight (0.35 at.%) of boron to stoichiometric Ni3Al reduces the effectiveness with which grain boundaries strengthen the alloy. This effect leads to boron-induced weakening of the most finely grained aggregates (d ≲ 10 μm). The effect of boron is explained in terms of an increase in the mobility of grain boundary dislocations, and is related to boron-induced ductility.
Choice and stimulus–response compatibility affect duration of response selection

In general, for movements to visual targets, response times increase with the number of possible response choices. However, this rule only seems to hold when an incompatibility exists between the stimulus and response, and is absent when stimulus and response are highly compatible (e.g., when reaching toward the location of the stimulus). Stimulus-response (S-R) compatibility can be manipulated either at the level of stimulus and response characteristics, or at the level of the mapping between elements of the stimulus and response sets. The current study was undertaken to determine the extent of the interaction between choice and each of these two levels of S-R compatibility. Subjects used a joystick to move a cursor in response to two, four or eight possible cues, with S-R compatibility manipulated along two dimensions (type of stimulus, and mapping between stimulus and response sets) in separate blocks of trials. Choice effects were absent when S-R relationships were highly compatible, moderate when incompatible in either of the two dimensions, and greatest when incompatible in both dimensions. These results indicate that choice affects response selection at each stage in the decoding of S-R relationships. Similar but smaller effects were seen for trials in which the stimulus was the same as that presented in the immediately preceding trial, suggesting that repeated stimulus-response transformations are faster and more efficient due to the priming effects of previous trials.
Monitoring nitrogen pollution from sugarcane runoff using15N analysis

In many forested wetlands of Louisiana, surface water quality is being deteriorated by nutrient input from adjacent agricultural production areas. This field study assesses the input of fertilizer N, applied to sugarcane fields, to forested wetlands. The potential use of natural abundance variations in 15N14N ratios for identification and tracing surface water N sources (NH 4 + - and NO3 --N) was evaluated. Runoff and surface water samples were collected from sugarcane fields and bordering forested wetlands (6 stations) over a 16 month period and analyzed for NH 4 + -N, NO 3 - -N, and associated NH 4 + -δ15N and NO 3 - -δ15N ratios. Fertilizer N draining into adjacent forested wetland was estimated to be only a small fraction of the amount applied. Concentrations of NH 4 + - and NO 3 - -N in the collected water samples were low and ranged from 0.02 to 1.79 mg L-1. Isotopic analysis revealed NH 4 + -δ15N and NO 3 - -δ15N means were distinctive and may have the potential to be used as tracers of N contamination. The mean NH 4 + -δ15N value was +18.6 ± 7.1‰ and the NO 3 - -δ15N mean was +8.3 ± 3.1‰. Anomalously high NO 3 - -δ15N values (>30‰) were attributed to denitrification.
Short-term recognition memory for normal and whispered letters.

WHEN a subject is asked to recall a list of items, he is asked to recall only certain relevant features of each item. If presentation is visual, subjects are usually not asked to recall the exact size, position, brightness, texture, etc., of the items. If presentation is auditory, subjects are usually not asked to recall the exact frequency, intensity, stress, etc. of the items. Features which are not to be recalled may be termed ‘irrelevant’. However, it is important to note that a logically ‘irrelevant’ feature is not necessarily irrelevant to the memory trace for relevant features. Previous studies have shown that ‘irrelevant’ items in the presented list produce a considerable amount of interference in short-term recall of ‘relevant’ items, even when subjects have complete knowledge of which items are to be ignored1,2.
Color image processing with CGH filters in a white light optical system.

Computer simulation and experimental results of computer-generated hologram (CGH) spatial filters applied to the deblurring of color images in a dispersed white light optical processor are presented. Significant performance can be achieved with moderate resolution images and 1-D processing operations. Color smear and multiband filter/signal spectrum size mismatch limit applications involving large space–bandwidth images and/or 2-D processing operations with the dispersed system configuration. The flexibility of the CGH spatial filter fabrication technique, combined with the added processing dimension of wavelength and the inherent ability to reduce coherent artifact noise, make this processing scheme attractive for many image processing applications.
Finding Optimal Bus Service Routes: Internet-Based Methodology to Serve Transit Patrons

Internet-based transportation systems are becoming widespread due to advances in Internet, computing, and geospatial information system (GIS) technologies. An internet-based methodology that allows...
Quality of Categorized Service and Customer Satisfaction in Banking Industry: An Empirical Study on Private Commercial Banks in Bangladesh

The main objectives of the study are to evaluate the customer satisfaction of the service quality and to assess whether bank services provided by the institutions are satisfactory to Bangladeshi customers especially in term of service categories like general banking, credit banking and foreign exchange banking services. The study also examines empirically the determinants of service quality in Bangladesh. A questionnaire for such purpose was designed and different statistical methods were applied to analyse the collected data. From the study it is found that the overall service quality in private commercial bank in Bangladesh is moderate, where service quality in general banking services is better than the credit banking services and foreign exchange services though its quality is not too bad . In addition, top ranked banks have high service quality in all categories of services and the lower raked banks are struggling seriously with credit and foreign exchange services. So, as policy recommendation, the banks especially the lower ranked banks should give more emphasis on both the credit and foreign exchange banking services. Key Words : Categorized Service; Perceived Service Quality; Customer Satisfaction. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbt.v5i2.9933 Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka) Vol. 5(2), July-December, 2010 19-37
Thermophysical properties of Ni–Nb and Ni–Nb–Sn bulk metallic glass-forming melts by containerless electrostatic levitation processing

Abstract The containerless high-temperature high vacuum electrostatic levitation (ESL) technique was used for the determination of thermo-physical properties of the binary eutectic alloy, Ni 59.5 Nb 40.5 , and the ternary alloy Ni 60 Nb 34.8 Sn 5.2 . The thermo-physical properties measured were density, specific heat over hemispherical total emissivity, surface tension and viscosity. The density for both the melts was found to be higher than that predicted by the rule of mixtures. This was attributed to strong attractive interaction between the constituents. The temperature dependent specific heat capacity of the binary alloy was determined by fitting with TEMPUS results. The hemispherical total emissivity was estimated to be 0.27. Using the specific heat data and the hemispherical total emissivity, the enthalpy and entropy of fusion were calculated for the binary alloy. The viscosities for both the alloys were fit with the Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann equation to obtain the fragility parameter. The surface tension for the binary alloy showed an anomalous positive gradient while that of the ternary alloy showed a small negative gradient with temperature.
Spatially Local and Temporally Smooth PCA for fMRI

PCA has found use as an exploratory technique for fMRI analysis. However underlying it is an implicit model that while allowing temporal non-stationary covariance assumes the same covariance structure for all voxels. Here we relax this assumption for the first time by developing a version of PCA that allows the covariance structure to vary spatially. The new method is applied to real data and provides interesting new insight.
Samira Aghacy. Masculine Identity in the Fiction of the Arab East since 1967. Reviewed by Elizabeth M. Holt

Masculine Identity in the Fiction of the Arab East Since 1967 SAMIRA AGHACY Syracuse, NY, Syracuse University Press, 2009, xii + 225 pp., ISBN 978-0-8156-3237-5 Samira Aghacy's Masculine Identity i...
Prediction of fibre strength at the critical length : a simulation theory and experimental verification for bimodally distributed carbon fibre strengths

A computer simulation model of fragment distribution with respect to the fibre strength in a single-filament composite test is developed using the bimodal Weibull statistics. The predictions of the theory are examined with experimental results for AU carbon fibres coated by zirconium-n-propoxide or a zircoaluminate complex. Weibull analysis reveals a bimodal distribution of fibre strengths, in which the fractions of low- and high-strength populations vary with gauge length. It is seen that the simulation results are in good agreement with experimental data if the best fit model of strength distribution is applied. Thus, the use of a bimodal distribution term in the simulation theory yields a predicted strength at the critical length which is in good agreement with the results of extrapolation of experimental data, while the unimodal distribution term leads to overestimation of the strength.