cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Measuring long term effects of technology transfer in developing nations: the case of Internet training at the Romanian Academy of Science

Technology diffusion in developing nations is dependent on a continuous flow of good training for all users and potential users. Yet relatively little analysis of the results of this training has been done beyond cursory post-course evaluations. Despite the extensive investments in IT training by donors, multilateral organizations and the national governments, the return on investment for these courses and programs is not clear. This study aims to give a more explicit, long term perspective on IT training in developing nations by employing a popular evaluation model used widely in industry. The Kirkpatrick model treats the training event as only a first step in a process that ultimately involves changing attitudes, behaviors and even life styles. The Romanian Internet Academy case is a pilot study aimed at exploring longer term changes in attitudes and behaviors. While many predictor variables are appropriate, only age, gender, academic productivity and academic discipline were used in this preliminary study. Results indicate that this process can yield useful results for determining the true value of these courses and, just as important, can lead to establishing policies for improving results significantly.
Automatic posing of a meshed human model using point clouds

We introduce a markerless approach to deform a quality human body template mesh from its original pose to a different pose specified by a point cloud. The point cloud may be noisy, incomplete, or even captured from a different person. In this approach, we first build coarse correspondences between the template mesh and the point cloud through a squeezed spectral embedding technique that exploits human body extremities. Based on these correspondences, we define the goal of non-rigid registration using an elastic energy functional and apply a discrete gradient flow to reduce the difference between a coarse control mesh and the point cloud. The deformed template mesh can then be obtained from the deformation of the control mesh using mean value coordinates afterwards. Our experiments show (see the supplementary video) that the approach is capable of equipping a mesh with the pose of a scanned point cloud data even if it is incomplete and noisy. Graphical abstractDisplay Omitted HighlightsA markerless approach to deform a human body template mesh by a point cloud.A spectral based method that establishes correspondence between different human poses.A variational approach for human body deformation and alignment.
Efficient numerical simulation of electron states in quantum wires

We present a new algorithm for the numerical simulation of electrons in a quantum wire as described by a two‐dimensional eigenvalue problem for Schrodinger’s equation coupled with Poisson’s equation. Initially, the algorithm employs an underrelaxed fixed point iteration to generate an approximation which is reasonably close to the solution. Subsequently, this approximate solution is employed as an initial guess for a Jacobian‐free implementation of an approximate Newton method. In this manner the nonlinearity in the model is dealt with effectively. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in a set of numerical experiments which study the electron states on the cross section of a quantum wire structure based on III‐V semiconductors at 4.2 and 77 K.
Diffraction tomography I: The wave-equation

A general wave equation for sound propagation in a viscoelastic medium is obtained. From this general equation an approximate inhomogeneous wave equation is derived by perturbation methods. Born's and Rytov's approximations are considered. The equation is finally brought into a form which provides transformation properties under rotation of the test object required for diffraction tomography.
Local Adaptive Importance Sampling for Multivariate Densities with Strong Nonlinear Relationships

Abstract We consider adaptive importance sampling techniques that use kernel density estimates at each iteration as importance sampling functions. These can provide more nearly constant importance weights and more precise estimates of quantities of interest than the sampling importance resampling algorithm when the initial importance sampling function is diffuse relative to the target. We propose a new method that adapts to the varying local structure of the target. When the target has unusual structure, such as strong nonlinear relationships between variables, this method provides estimates with smaller mean squared error than alternative methods.
Optimization of Engine Torque Management Under Uncertainty for Vehicle Driveline Clunk Using Time-Dependent Metamodels

Quality and performance are two important customer requirements in vehicle design. Driveline clunk negatively affects the perceived quality and must be therefore, minimized. This is usually achieved using engine torque management, which is part of engine calibration. During a tip-in event, the engine torque rate of rise is limited until all the driveline lash is taken up. However, the engine torque rise, and its rate can negatively affect the vehicle throttle response which determines performance. Therefore, the engine torque management must be balanced against throttle response. In practice, the engine torque rate of rise is calibrated manually. This paper describes an analytical methodology for calibrating the engine torque, considering uncertainty, in order to minimize the clunk disturbance, while still meeting throttle response constraints. A set of predetermined engine torque profiles which span the practical range of interest, are used and the transmission turbine speed is calculated for each profile using a bond-graph vehicle model. The turbine speed quantifies the clunk disturbance. Using the engine torque profiles and the corresponding turbine speed responses, a time-dependent metamodel is created using principal component analysis and Kriging. The metamodel predicts the turbine speed response due to any engine torque profile and is used in a deterministic and reliability-based optimization which minimizes the clunk disturbance while still meeting the throttle response target. Compared with commonly used production calibration, the clunk disturbance is reduced substantially without negatively affecting the vehicle throttle response.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Plan-IT-2: The next generation planning and scheduling tool

PLAN-IT is a scheduling program which has been demonstrated and evaluated in a variety of scheduling domains. The capability enhancements being made for the next generation of PLAN-IT, called PLAN-IT-2 is discussed. PLAN-IT-2 represents a complete rewrite of the original PLAN-IT incorporating major changes as suggested by the application experiences with the original PLAN-IT. A few of the enhancements described are additional types of constraints, such as states and resettable-depletables (batteries), dependencies between constraints, multiple levels of activity planning during the scheduling process, pattern constraint searching for opportunities as opposed to just minimizing the amount of conflicts, additional customization construction features for display and handling of diverse multiple time systems, and reduction in both the size and the complexity for creating the knowledge-base to address the different problem domains.
Molecular pathogenesis of Bartter’s and Gitelman’s syndromes

A 42-year-old man presented to UCLA with a history of chronic hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia. His medical history was unremarkable except for occasional cramps in his calves. He had no history of laxative or diuretic abuse or of vomiting, and he was taking no medications. His 47-year-old brother also had a history of chronic hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia and severe intermittent muscle cramps. He was being treated with amiloride and magnesium supplementation. Both parents and a third brother were asymptomatic and had no electrolyte abnormalities. Physical examination revealed a well-developed white male in no distress. His blood pressure was 110/70 mm Hg: heart rate. 72 beats/min; jugular venous pressure was estimated to be 7 cm: his chest was clear to auscultation. Cardiovascular examination disclosed a regular rate and rhythm, and no murmurs. rubs, or gallops; his abdomen was nontender without hepatosplenomegaly. Neurologic examination revealed cranial nerves 2-12 intact, no sensory or motor deficit, and no Chvostek or Trousseau sign. He did not have peripheral edema. Laboratory values were: serum sodium, 136 mEq/liter; potassium, 2.4 mEq/liter; chloride. 94 mEq/liter; total CO 2 , 28 mEq/liter; venous pH, 7.47 and PCO 2 , 38 mm Hg; BUN, 10 mg/dl; serum creatinine. 0.7 mg/dl; ionized calcium, 1.25 mmol/liter; total calcium, 9.2 mg/dl; phosphorus, 3.2 mg/dl; magnesium, 1.1 mg/dl; supine plasma renin, 16.6 ng/ml/hr; supine aldosterone, 168 pg/ml; PTH, 13 pg/ml; 1,25(OH) 2 vitamin D, 42 pg/ml. Urine chemistries were: sodium, 64 mEq/liter; potassium. 42 mEq/liter; chloride, 58 mEq/liter; calcium, I mg/dl; magnesium, 4.3 mg/dl; phosphorus, 67.4 mg/dl; and creatinine, 81 mg/dl, A diuretic screen was negative. The patient was discharged on no medications and has remained asymptomatic.
Diophantine Geometry from Model Theory

§1. Introduction. With Hrushovski's proof of the function field Mordell-Lang conjecture [16] the relevance of geometric stability theory to diophantine geometry first came to light. A gulf between logicians and number theorists allowed for contradictory reactions. It has been asserted that Hrushovski's proof was simply an algebraic argument masked in the language of model theory. Another camp held that this theorem was merely a clever one-off. Still others regarded the argument as magical and asked whether such sorcery could unlock the secrets of a wide coterie of number theoretic problems. In the intervening years each of these prejudices has been revealed as false though such attitudes are still common. The methods pioneered in [16] have been extended and applied to a number of other problems. At their best, these methods have been integrated into the general methods for solving diophantine problems. Moreover, the newer work suggests limits to the application of model theory to diophantine geometry. For example, all such known applications are connected with commutative algebraic groups. This need not be an intrinsic restriction, but its removal requires serious advances in the model theory of fields.
Partitioning programs for parallel execution

The ability of parallel computers to execute multiple instruction streams (tasks) simultaneously gives rise to the problem of partitioning a program into a set of tasks that can be assigned to different processors. The degree to which parallelism can be exploited, the amount of overhead involved during parallel execution of a program and a number of other factors depend directly on partitioning. A good partitioning scheme must take into account all these factors. In this paper we present algorithms to compute optimal partitions in diverse models of the problem. Both directed and undirected graph representations of a parallel program are considered. For some instances of the problem where practical optimal schemes are not possible we suggest simple and efficient heuristics. Finally, a polynomial time algorithm to compute optimal partitions for chains is given.
Theoretical studies of the stability of ordered A 8 B compounds

Ten out of 27 possible ${\mathit{A}}_{8}$B (prototype ${\mathrm{Pt}}_{8}$Ti) compounds, where A=Ni, Pd, Pt, and B are IVA, VA, and VIA elements, have been experimentally observed. For these compounds to be thermodynamically stable, their T=0 formation energy \ensuremath{\Delta}H must be negative, and \ensuremath{\Delta}H must lie below the tie line connecting neighboring ground states. Using the first-principles total-energy approach as implemented in the linearized augmented-plane-wave LAPW method, we have calculated the T=0 \ensuremath{\Delta}H of (Ni,Pd,Pt${)}_{8}$B (B=V, Cr, Mo, and W) and of their neighboring known (or suspected) ground-state structures. We find that (i) \ensuremath{\Delta}H0 for these compounds except for ${\mathrm{Pd}}_{8}$Cr, for which \ensuremath{\Delta}Hg0; (ii) \ensuremath{\Delta}H(${\mathit{A}}_{8}$B) lies below the tie line connecting the neighboring known (or suspected) ground states and the end point (pure element). These ${\mathit{A}}_{8}$B structures appear to be true, stable ground states for these systems. We further elucidate the stability or instability of these systems in terms of their underlying electronic structures, and also calculate their electron-phonon interactions. We conclude that these materials are unlikely to be superconductors.
O rex mundi triumphator : Hohenstaufen politics in a sequence for Saint Charlemagne

In March 1152, the German princes gathered in the city of Frankfurt and elected Frederick ‘Barbarossa’ of Hohenstaufen (r. 1152–90) their new king. The dynamic young Swabian duke took the throne with a sense of entitlement unknown since the days of the Emperor Henry III (r. 1039–56). Shortly after his election, he confidently notified Pope Eugenius III of his new station. Seeking neither warrant nor approval, Frederick informed the pope of a new relationship between the imperium and the Roman Church. Barbarossa portrayed his election, as well as his subsequent anointment by Pope Hadrian IV in 1155, as the fulfilment of preordained circumstances. The new king was determined to make the imperial title more than a hollow honour, and from the first years of his reign he sought to strengthen his position by adding to his dominion the wealth and resources of Italy, riches he deemed the rightful assets of his office.
SEMATECH and collaborative research: Lessons in the design of high‐technology consortia

This article reviews the experience of SEMATECH as a model for high-technology research consortia. SEMATECH's original aims of developing next-generation manufacturing technology proved hard to achieve, and the program has refocused on generic technology and the equipment industry infrastructure. Though more modest, these new objectives have produced significant tangible results. The study considers the reasons for the change and implications for consortium design. This is contrasted with the history of other major collaborative research programs in Japan, Europe, and the United States.
Effects of Inlet Mass Flow Distribution and Magnitude on Reactant Distribution for PEM Fuel Cells

The mass flow distribution and local flow structures that lead to areas of reactant starvation are explored for a small power large active area PEM fuel cell. A numerical model was created to examine the flow distribution for three different inlet profiles; blunt, partially developed, and fully developed. The different inlet profiles represent the various distances between the blower and the inlet to the fuel cell and the state of flow development. The partially and fully developed inlet profiles were found to have the largest percentage of cells that are deficient, 20% at a flow rate of 6.05 g/s. Three different inlet mass flow rates (stoichs) were also examined for each inlet profile. The largest percent of cells deficient in reactants is 27% and occurs at the highest flow rate of 9.1 g/s (3 stoichs) for the partially and fully developed turbulent profiles. In addition to the uneven flow distribution, flow separation occurs in the front four channels for the blunt inlet profile at all flow rates examined. These areas of flow separation lead to localized reactant deficient areas within a channel.
1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D Hydroxylase in Adipocytes

Abstract High vitamin D intake is associated with reduced insulin resistance. Expression of extra-renal 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D hydroxylase (1α-hydroxylase) has been reported in several tissues and contributes to local synthesis of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 (1,25(OH) 2 D) from the substrate 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD). Expression and dietary regulation of 1α-hydroxylase in tissues associated with energy metabolism, including adipose tissue, has not been assessed. Male Wistar rats were fed a high calcium (1.5%) and high vitamin D (10,000 IU/kg) or a low calcium (0.25%), low vitamin D (400 IU/kg) with either a high fat (40% energy) or high sucrose (66% energy) dietary background for 14 weeks. Expression of 1α-hydroxylase, assessed by real time PCR, was detected in adipose tissue and did not differ with dietary level of calcium and vitamin D. 1α-Hydroxylase mRNA was also detected in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and 25OHD treatment at 10 nM levels induced 1,25(OH) 2 D responsive gene, CYP24, and this response was reduced in the presence of the p450 inhibitor, ketoconazole. In addition, 3 H 25OHD was converted to 3 H 1,25(OH) 2 D in intact 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Cumulatively, these results demonstrate that 1α-hydroxylase is expressed in adipose tissue and is functional in cultured adipocytes. Thus, the capacity for local production may play a role in regulating adipocyte growth and metabolism.
Multiple sensor based UGV localization using fuzzy extended Kalman filtering

A method for localization of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) that are equipped with multiple sensors is presented and evaluated based on derivation of a fuzzy extended Kalman filter (EKF). The fuzzy EKF is used to fuse information acquired from the UGV odometer, stereo vision system and laser range finder in order to estimate the vehicle position and orientation. The noise distribution of the multiple sensor readings is identified via a set of fuzzy logic (FL) controllers also used to update the measurement covariance matrix of the EKF. Artificial landmarks are recognized by the stereo vision system and distances between the vehicle and the landmarks are computed by both the laser range finder and the stereo vision system. Each FL controller is dedicated to one sensor and its primary function is to adjust the parameters of the sensor readings noise distribution. Range information, odometer measurements and FL controller outputs are inputs to the EKF that estimates the current position of the vehicle. As a case study, experiments with a skid steering mobile robot navigating indoors and outdoors are performed, and obtained experimental results demonstrate that the fuzzy EKF performs better than the EKF in terms of position accuracy.
Low-Energy Inelastic Atomic Collisions

An approximation method is described which is useful for finding inelastic collision cross sections for atomic collisions at energies above about 1 electron volt near threshold. The method uses classical paths for the atoms and the distance of closest approach which is determined from known interatomic forces. The method is applied to the problem of finding the ionization cross section of helium-helium collisions. The comparison of theory and experiment shows satisfactory results.
Extending the western North American Proterozoic and Paleozoic continental crust through the Mojave Desert

Data supporting the existence of Proterozoic basement in the central and western Mojave Desert include U-Pb zircon geochronology and Nd, Sr, and Pb isotopic values of quartzofeldspathic gneisses, detrital zircon provenance ages, and the presence of basement clasts in Paleozoic and Mesozoic conglomerates. These data corroborate existing isotopic data from Mesozoic and Tertiary intrusive rocks that suggest involvement of Proterozoic crust in their genesis. Exposures of Proterozoic basement and Late Proterozoic and Paleozoic transitional miogeoclinal-cratonal facies trends in the central and western Mojave Desert consistently imply that cratonal North America continues westward uninterrupted through this region to the San Andreas fault. These data place geographic limits on the position of several pre-Tertiary tectonic elements speculated to exist in the Mojave Desert.
Diffuse Reflectance Interferometric Spectroscopy in the Far Infrared Region

Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopy in the far infrared (FIR) has been found to be feasible to ~40 cm−1. High-density polyethylene powder was used as the non-absorbing matrix and diluent. DRIFT spectra in the FIR of compounds representing organic, inorganic, corrdination, glass, catalysts, and others are presented, and are compared with Nujol mull transmission spectra. Other sampling techniques are suggested, including specular (external reflectance–1 pass) reflectance in the FIR.
Fear of snakes in wild- and laboratory-reared rhesus monkeys ( Macaca mulatta )

Experiment 1 compared the responses of 10 laboratory-reared and 10 wild-reared rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) to a real snake and to a range of snake-like objects. Most wild-reared monkeys showed considerable fear of the real, toy, and model snakes, whereas most lab-reared monkeys showed only very mild responses. Fear was indexed by unwillingness to approach food on the far side of the snake and by behavioral disturbance. Experiment 2 examined the effectiveness of seven flooding sessions in reducing snake fear in 8 wild-reared rhesus monkeys. Mean latency to reach for food, trials to criterion (four consecutive short latency responses), and total exposure time to criterion declined significantly across flooding sessions. Behavioral disturbance declined within sessions but not across sessions. Results of a final behavioral test revealed that substantial long-lasting changes had occurred in only 3 of the 8 monkeys. The results are discussed in the context of dissociation between different indices of fear.
A modified shifted means-based segmentation approach to detect active regions and coronal holes in the solar dynamics observatory images

Solar images taken at different wavelengths enable scientists to visualize and analyze the suns activities. The Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) provides high-resolution images of the sun, with cadence in seconds, taken at varying wavelengths, resulting in finely detailed, almost continuous data for researcher's examination. We propose an approach to find active regions and coronal holes that involves shifted means based segmentation, and voting based edge linking to link fragments combined with Moore's neighbor tracing algorithm to highlight the regions of interest. This approach is illustrated by using the images taken by the AIA telescopes onboard of the SDO mission. We obtain a segmented image that clearly isolates the active regions. Moreover this method is comparatively faster than the commonly used fuzzy logic based methods. This method is capable of forming a foundation for the analysis of various other features of the sun like detection of prominences.
Effect of ion bombardment on martensite formation in 1095 steel

Abstract The effect of argon and helium ion bombardment on the resulting structure and mechanical properties of martensite in 1095 steel was studied as a function of ion dosage. Thin wire (0.005 in) and sheet (0.010 in) samples were resistively heated to the austenitic range in an inert atmosphere for homogenization, were bombarded with the gas ions at this temperature (900°C) and were then quenched by a spray of liquid nitrogen in situ to induce transformation to martensite. Optical microscopy shows a distinct structural difference between the quenched and the ion-implanted-and-quenched martensitic structures attained. Scanning electron microscope analysis on the cross section of the sheet samples indicate that the ion-implanted martensitic structure is uniform throughout the thickness while both field ion microscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses reveal a much finer structure than that of quenched martensite. X-ray diffraction analysis also indicates that 4%–5% retained austenite is present in the final martensitic structures after ion implantation, in a similar amount to that found in the quenched martensite samples. Within the range of ion energies utilized (190 – 240 eV for helium and 200 – 225 eV for argon) the hardness of martensite is increased from 945 kgf mm−2 for the direct-quenched samples to 976–1125 kgf mm−2 for argon-ion implanted martensite and to 960–1095 kgf mm−2 for helium-ion implanted martensite samples. Similarly, tensile strength values are seen to increase, over the quenched value of 85.5 × 103 lbf in−2, to (86.8–96.0) × 103 lbf in−2 for argon-ion implanted samples and to (85.9 – 94.9) × 103 lbf in−2 for martensitic structures produced after helium ion implantation.
Development of chemically-tailored, corrosion-resistant, single-crystal YBCO

Abstract We have developed a method to successfully grow cation-substituted versions of single-crystal YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−δ (YBCO). The target composition is Y 0.6 Ca 0.4 Ba 1.6 La 0.4 Cu 3 O 7−δ . Polycrystalline samples with this composition are known to be less reactive [1]. Reduced reactivity in single-crystal samples will be useful for surface and interface research and applications. We modify a standard 1-4-10 flux method of producing single-crystal YBCO by including the desired cations in the flux. We compare measured Ca:Y and La:Ba ratios in the single crystals to those of stoichiometrically ideal polycrystalline samples. To bring the ratios into agreement with the polycrystalline data, we systematically vary the composition of the flux. We achieve the closest agreement in those crystals whose flux had both relatively high amounts of calcium and relatively low amounts of lanthanum. We find that even when the stoichiometry is not ideal, corrosion resistance is enhanced as compared to YBCO.
Surveys of Anomalous Experience in Chinese, Japanese, and American Samples*

SchoLars often assume thut religious preference, Teligiosity, and saenufic taining affect the irridence of anomalous experiences. Caucasian-Amezican, A^ican-American, Chinese, a7ld Japanese college stltdents were polled Tegarding deXa vu, nighlt paralysis, extrasensory perception (ESP), conS txt with the dead, out-cf-boly expenence (OBE), and belief in ESP. Although the incidence of reported episode vaTied ctoss-cultaraUy, vtedge of a respederu's religioxs preference, self-reported religiosity, or scientific tTaiTung provided little predicave capacity Tegarding fre4uency of anomulous expenence or belief in ESP. These findings contradict prevaleTlt assumpuons regardi'ng Cnornalous expenence ard occult belief.
A note on the inverse estimator for the linear calibration problem

In the simple linear calibration problem, two main competing estimators are the classical estimator and the inverse estimator. The Bayesian and compound-estimation approaches have been used to support the inverse estimator. The purpose of this note is to show that one can also derive the inverse estimator by the cross-validatory method. This derivation does not require any specific distributional assumptions.
Shock-tube chemistry. I - The laminar-to-turbulent boundary layer transition

A model is proposed for calculating laminar-turbulent transition in the boundary layer of flows in chemical shock tubes. It is shown that the time to turbulent transition may be treated as the time required by the shocked gas to move over one shock-tube diameter. The model is shown to provide a means of predicting the turbulent transition time in any shock tube experiment, provided the condition of limiting flow is met. Knowing the transition time, it becomes possible to obtain the density and temperature profiles and, hence, to determine precisely the effect of shock tube boundary layers on the measurement of chemical rate constants.
A Model for Particle Microphysics,Turbulent Mixing, and Radiative Transfer in the Stratocumulus-Topped Marine Boundary Layer and Comparisons with Measurements

A detailed 1D model of the stratocumulus-topped marine boundary layer is described. The model has three coupled components: a microphysics module that resolves the size distributions of aerosols and cloud droplets, a turbulence module that treats vertical mixing between layers, and a multiple wavelength radiative transfer module that calculates radiative heating rates and cloud optical properties. The results of a 12-h model simulation reproduce reasonably well the bulk thermodynamics, microphysical properties, and radiative fluxes measured in an approx. 500-m thick, summertime marine stratocumulus cloud layer by Nicholls. However, in this case, the model predictions of turbulent fluxes between the cloud and subcloud layers exceed the measurements. Results of model simulations are also compared to measurements of a marine stratus layer made under gale conditions and with measurements of a high, thin marine stratocumulus layer. The variations in cloud properties are generally reproduced by the model, although it underpredicts the entrainment of overlying air at cloud top under gale conditions. Sensitivities of the model results are explored. The vertical profile of cloud droplet concentration is sensitive to the lower size cutoff of the droplet size distribution due to the presence of unactivated haze particles in the lower region of the modeled cloud. Increases in total droplet concentrations do not always produce less drizzle and more cloud water in the model. The radius of the mean droplet volume does not correlate consistently with drizzle, but the effective droplet radius does. The greatest impacts on cloud properties predicted by the model are produced by halving the width of the size distribution of input condensation nuclei and by omitting the effect of cloud-top radiative cooling on the condensational growth of cloud droplets. The omission of infrared scattering produces noticeable changes in cloud properties. The collection efficiencies for droplets less than 30-micrometers radius, and the value of the accommodation coefficient for condensational droplet growth, have noticeable effects on cloud properties. The divergence of the horizontal wind also has a significant effect on a 12-h model simulation of cloud structure. Conclusions drawn from the model are tentative because of the limitations of the 1D model framework. A principal simplification is that the model assumes horizontal homogeneity, and, therefore, does not resolve updrafts and downdrafts. Likely consequences of this simplification include overprediction of the growth of droplets by condensation in the upper region of the cloud, underprediction of droplet condensational growth in the lower region of the cloud, and underprediction of peak supersaturations.
Employee Engagement and Organizational Behavior Management

Engagement is a “buzz” word that has gained popularity in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Based on a “Positive Psychology” approach, engagement is perceived as a valuable state for employees, because surveys on the construct have found it correlates with some organizational tactics (e.g., human resource policies, procedural justice) and positive outcomes (e.g., growth, lower costs, lower absenteeism). Reviews of the engagement literature suggest engagement is not clearly defined, which is common with some popular cognitive/emotional constructs. Positive Psychology is nothing new to behavior analysis (Luthans, Youssef, & Rawski, 2011), which has many applications through the field of Organizational Behavior Management to create an “engaged” workforce and culture.
Chemical C2-elongation of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Abstract Three fatty acids were synthesized from commercially available α-linolenic, stearidonic and eicosapentaenoic acids by C2-elongation using a four step preparative technique. The parent fatty acid methyl esters were reduced to alcohols with LiAlH 4 , converted to bromides by treatment with triphenylphosphine dibromide, coupled with a lithiated C2-elongation block – 2,4,4-trimethyl-2-oxazoline – to form the corresponding 2,2-dimethyloxazolines of C2-elongated fatty acids, and finally, converted to the target polyunsaturated fatty acids by acidic alcoholysis. Yields of more than 60% were achieved on a gram scale. The resulting 11Z,14Z,17Z-eicosatrienoic, 8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z-eicosatetraenoic and 7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z-docosapentaenoic acids were obtained as colorless oils with >98% purity and could be used for biochemical investigations without additional purification. The elongated fatty acids were free of byproducts that could result from Z-E isomerization or migration of double bonds.
EXPERIMENTAL INFECTIONS OF SARCOCYSTIS SPP. IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK (CERVUS ELAPHUS) CALVES

Four 4-mo-old elk calves (Cervus elaphus) obtained from northeastern Oregon (USA) each were inoculated orally with 250,000 sporocysts of Sarcocystis spp., including S. sybillensis and S. wapiti. Three similar elk calves of comparable ages and weights served as uninoculated controls maintained with the inoculated elk during the experimental period between September and December 1993. Body weights were evaluated at 0 and 90 days postinoculation (PI); packed cell volumes of whole blood were evaluated at 0, 30, and 60 days PI, and numbers of sarcocysts in histologic sections from 11 selected tissues were evaluated at 90 days PI. Significant differences in blood packed cell volumes were not detected between groups (P > 0.05). Except for weight gain, elk remained healthy. Mean (± SE) weight gain of inoculated elk (27.1 ± 1.6 kg) was significantly (P < 0.05) less than that of controls (40.2 ± 4.9 kg). Mean (±SE) number of sarcocysts in tissues of inoculated (114.4 ± 25.7 cm2) and controls (4.5 ± 1.4 cm2) differe...
Geometry of Reinhardt domains of finite type in ℂ2

The asymptotic behavior of the holomorphic sectional curvature of the Bergman metric on a pseudoconvex Reinhardt domain of finite type in ℂ2 is obtained by rescaling locally the domain to a model domain that is either a Thullen domain Ω m = {(z 1,z 2); ¦z 1¦2 + ¦z 2¦2m < 1 or a tube domainT m = {(z 1,z 2); Imz1 + (Imz2)2m < 1}. The Bergman metric for the tube domainT m is explicitly calculated by using Fourier-Laplace transformation. It turns out that the holomorphic sectional curvature of the Bergman metric on the tube domainT m at (0, 0) is bounded above by a negative constant. These results are used to construct a complete Kahler metric with holomorphic sectional curvature bounded above by a negative constant for a pseudoconvex Reinhardt domain of finite type in ℂ2.
Analysis of the targeting of the hypermutational machinery and the impact of subsequent selection on the distribution of nucleotide changes in human V rearrangements

Summary: B cells are unique in that they generate and tolerate a high rate of mutations in their antigen receptor genes and employ these mutations as a basis of avidity maturation. The precise role of the mutational machinery versus subsequent selection in determining the frequency and distribution of mutations has not been fully analyzed. To address these issues, the influence of the intrinsic mutational machinery and subsequent selection on the frequency and distribution of mutations in the expressed human immunoglobulin repertoire was analyzed. Analysis of non-productively rearranged vH genes from individual human B cells provided an opportunity to examine the immediate impact of somatic hypermtitation without superimposed selective influences. Comparison with the frequency and distribution of mutations in the productively rearranged human VH genes permitted an estimate of the influences of subsequent selection.
Alterations of Methionine to Cysteine Conversion Rates and Nutritional Muscular Dystrophy in Chicks.

SummaryThe effects of methionine-transmethylation metabolites on nutritional muscular dystrophy and methionine to cysteine conversion rates in vitamin E-deficient chicks have been studied. The results show that guanidoacetic acid accelerates the conversion of methionine to cysteine and reduces the severity of nutritional muscular dystrophy, and that creatine, choline and betaine inhibit that conversion and accentuate the dystrophy. Therefore cysteine, not methionine, must be the metabolically active sulfur amino acid in the prevention of nutritional muscular dystrophy in vitamin E-deficient chicks.
Colonization Resistance: Battle of the Bugs or Ménage à Trois with the Host?

The lower gastrointestinal tract is host to a dense microbial community, known as the gut microbiota, which is dominated by obligate anaerobic bacteria belonging to the phyla Bacteroidetes (class Bacteroidia) and Firmicutes (class Clostridia). This microbial community offers benefit by conferring niche protection against invading microbes, a property known as “colonization resistance” (reviewed in [1]). The concept of colonization resistance was initially derived from studies showing that an antibiotic-mediated disruption of gut-associated microbial communities greatly enhances the ability of facultative anaerobic Enterobacteriaceae, such as Escherichia coli or Salmonella enterica, to colonize the large bowel [2]–[4]. Conventional wisdom holds that resident Bacteroidia and Clostridia confer colonization resistance by “competitive exclusion” of Enterobacteriaceae (phylum Proteobacteria) through microbe-microbe interactions. However, recent studies draw a tantalizing new picture, which suggests that host interactions might play a central role in shaping the microbial community structure. Here we review these new hypotheses and their implications for human health.
Reactions to light in Volvox, with special reference to the process of orientation

1. Volvox rotates on the longitudinal axis as it swims through the water. This is due to the fact that the flagella usually beat diagonally backward. 2. If the luminous intensity is suddenly decreased without changing the direction of the rays photopositive colonies which are oriented stop rotating and spurt directly forward. This is due to a change in the direction of the stroke of the flagella from diagonal to more nearly directly backward. 3. If the intensity is suddenly increased locomotion stops and the rate of rotation increases. This is due to a change in the direction of the stroke of the flagella from diagonal to more nearly sidewise. 4. Photonegative colonies react precisely the same as photopositive colonies except that the effects of increase and decrease in luminous intensity on the direction of the stroke of the flagella is reversed. 5. If, after either of these changes in the direction of the stroke o f the flagella has been initiated, there is no further change in the intensity of the light, the flagella continue to strike in the new direction for only 2.5 + seconds, after which they again strike in the direction which obtained before the intensity was changed. 6. If the intensity is gradually changed, there is no observable response unless the new intensity is maintained for a considerable period of time, which may result in increase or decrease in activity. 7. The eye-spots in Volvox consist of a pigment-cup, a lens which is located at the opening of the cup, and photosensitive substance which is located in the cup. There is one in each zooid, and all face outward. They are primitive eyes. 8. Orientation in photopositive colonies is due to an increase in the backward component of the stroke of the flagella on the shaded side and a decrease in this component on the opposite side. The former is due to reduction of light caused by the shadow of the pigment-cup on the photosensitive substance as the zooids are transferred from the illuminated side of the colony to the shaded side; the latter to increase of light caused by exposure of this substance as the zooids are transferred from the shaded to the illuminated side. 9. In negative colonies precisely the opposite obtains in the process of orientation. 10. Photic orientation is due to a change in the direction of the stroke of the flagella and not to change in activity. Galvanic orientation is due to decrease in activity on the side toward which the colonies turn. The processes involved are consequently not the same. 11. The orienting stimulus and the changes in the direction of the stroke of the flagella which result in orientation cease after the colonies are oriented. They remain oriented because, in the absence of external stimulation, they tend to take a straight course and because, as soon as they swerve from this course, opposite sides become unequally illuminated, resulting in change of intensity on the photosensitive substance in the eyes which leads to reorientation.
Aspartate aminotransferase in rat tissues: Changes with growth and hormones

Abstract Levels of the two isozymal forms of aspartate aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.1) were determined in normal and neoplastic rat tissues. Of the adult tissues with high total aspartate aminostransferase activity heart and muscle contain twice as much soluble than particulate isozyme while in liver and kidney (and tumors whose total activity is low) the particulate isozyme predominates. Mammary gland begins to exhibit aspartate aminotransferase activity after parturition and the soluble isozyme continues to rise throughout lactation. Fetal tissues have generally low aspartate aminotransferase activity; the different rates of its accumulation during gestation and postnatal life determined in liver, kidney and heart. The administration of thyroxine 2 days before birth, or that hydrocortisone 2 days before birth, promotes the accumulation of liver aspartate aminotransferase. Estradiol inhibits the developmental formation of the enzyme in liver and prevents the hydrocortisone induction of soluble aspartate aminostransferase in liver of adult males. The results indicate that the amounts of the two forms of aspartate aminotransferase are subject to different physiological control in different tissues. The response of the liver isozymes to hormones depends on the stage of development and after maturity of the sex of the animal.
Niche variability in late Holocene bison: a perspective from Big Bone Lick, KY

Abstract The Big Bone Lick (Boone County, Kentucky) bison fauna offer a glimpse into the population dynamics and behavioral characteristics of eastern Bison bison during the late Holocene. Examination of the Big Bone Lick dentitions suggests a single kill event that took place during winter or spring. Furthermore, osteometric comparisons of crania and metacarpals between the Big Bone Lick (BBL) bison and western Bison samples suggest that this species adapted to environmental conditions in the eastern US by adjusting developmental timing rather than through overt morphological change. Finally, isotopic (δ 13 C, δ 18 O) analyses of bison tooth enamel hydroxylapatite and a unique progression of tooth wear in older age groups indicate these bison were obligate browsers that exhibited substantial differences in inter-annual land-use patterns. The BBL bison assemblage represents a healthy, in situ bison population that successfully occupied a different ecological niche than bison on the Great Plains. Subsistence models that incorporate these animals should consider these important differences.
Effects of frequency and environment on fatigue behavior of an oxide–oxide ceramic composite at 1200 °C

Abstract The effect of frequency on fatigue behavior of an oxide–oxide continuous fiber ceramic composite (CFCC) was investigated at 1200 °C in laboratory air and in steam environment. The composite consists of a porous alumina matrix reinforced with laminated, woven mullite–alumina (Nextel™720) fibers, has no interface between the fiber and matrix, and relies on the porous matrix for flaw tolerance. Tension–tension fatigue tests were performed at frequencies of 0.1 and 10 Hz for fatigue stresses ranging from 75 to 170 MPa. Fatigue run-out was defined as 105 cycles at the frequency of 0.1 Hz and as 106 cycles at the frequency of 10 Hz. The CFCC exhibited excellent fatigue resistance in laboratory air. The fatigue limit was 170 MPa (88% UTS at 1200 °C). The material retained 100% of its tensile strength. Presence of steam significantly degraded the fatigue performance, with the degradation being most pronounced at 0.1 Hz. Composite microstructure, as well as damage and failure mechanisms were investigated. Examination of fracture surfaces revealed higher degrees of fiber pull-out in specimens tested at 10 Hz, indicating weakening of the fiber/matrix interface. A qualitative spectral analysis showed evidence of silicon species migration from the fiber to the matrix.
Radiation therapy for angiosarcoma

Background. Between 1964 and 1998, 19 patients with histologically proven angiosarcoma were treated with curative intent with radiation therapy. Methods. Median follow-up was 37 months (range, 8–234 months). Results. The actuarial 5-year absolute survival and local control rates were 51% and 50%, respectively. Of 12 patients who relapsed, 8 had isolated local recurrence as the first site of treatment failure, 2 had local (1 patient) or regional recurrence in conjunction with distant metastases, and 2 had distant metastases alone. Two of four patients who underwent further therapy for recurrent disease were successfully salvaged. Conclusions. Only the location of the primary tumor was a predictor of local control and absolute survival at 5 years. Angiosarcomas located on the scalp imply a dismal prognosis compared with those in other locations with the predominant pattern of failure being local recurrence. Patients should be treated aggressively with surgical resection and preoperative or postoperative radiation therapy. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 25: 873–878, 2003
Concentration effects on partitioning of dextrans and serum albumin in porous glass

Partitioning of three dextrans and bovine serum albumin (BSA) in controlled-pore glass beads was measured by a batch mass balance technique. For all solutes the measured partition coefficient increased with bulk phase concentration, and the relationship appeared to be linear up to 0.05 g/mL for the dextrans. The measured slopes of partition coefficient versus concentration were compared with predictions using a hard-sphere theory, and while the agreement was tolerable for BSA, the dextran results were much lower than the theory dictated except for very small pores, in which case it was speculated that molecular weight polydispersity resulted in anomalous partitioning of the smaller components.
Efficacy of Netminder ® silicone release coating for biofouling reduction in bay scallop grow-out and comparative effects on scallop survival, growth and reproduction

Netminder ® , a water-based silicone barrier release coating, was highly effective in reducing biofouling of lantern nets during grow-out/overwintering of bay scallops, Argopecten irradians irradians ,i n a large-scale restoration programme in New York, USA. Compared with untreated nets, scallops held in Netminder ® -coated nets experienced reduced survival after 8 months, probably due to higher loads of epibionts on their shells. However, this was countered by higher reproductive and overall condition of scallops in treated vs. untreated nets; there were no consistent differences in shell growth in different net treatments. Although further testing is recommended under a wider range of conditions, we conclude that for the purposes of our scallop restoration work, coating nets with Netminder ® would eliminate the need for a gear change in spring, thus reducing labour costs; the coating process should be refined so that Velcro closures of nets do not become sealed shut.