Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Hotplug in a multikernel operating system

The future manycore architectures present serious challenges to operating system designers. The traditional operating system designs can no longer manage the capabilities and power of the diverse heterogeneous cores with complex memory hierarchies, interconnects resembling networks, and distributed I/O configurations. The Barrelfish multikernel operating system addresses these issues by treating hardware as a distributed system. Co-operation in such an environment is achieved by message passing. We borrow similar design ideas in this thesis and present a distributed USB hot plugging infrastructure for a multikernel Barrelfish operating system. We have divided the USB system into three primary modules with different responsibilities: Host controller driver, USB manager and client drivers. This modular design provides necessary isolation and flexibility required in manycore systems. It also provides freedom to schedule and, if required, migrate any module independently among the cores depending upon the system workload and the application requirements. These modules communicate by explicit message passing but a few frequently updated and performance critical data structures are shared using shared memory mechanism. In this thesis, we try to design, implement and evaluate this system on top of message services and abstractions provided by the Barrelfish operating system.
Antifungal and antibacterial activities of Taxus wallichiana Zucc

Current study was undertaken to evaluate the in vitro antifungal and antibacterial potential of methanol extract and subsequent fractions obtained after partitioning in organic solvents with variable polarity of the aerial parts of the tree Taxus wallichiana Zucc. Traditionally, this plant is often used in folk medicines in Pakistan for treating microbial infections. In order to rationalize the traditional use, methanol extracts of leaf, bark, and heartwood of Taxus wallichiana Zucc. were tested against six bacteria and six fungal strains using the Hole diffusion and macro-dilution methods. All extracts and fractions displayed significant antimicrobial effect. Only three fungal strains, Trichophyton longifusus, Microspoum canis, and Fusarium solani were susceptible to the extracts and fractions with MICs ranging from 0.08 to 200 mg/mL. In case of bacterial strains, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella typhi were susceptible to the extracts and fractions with MICs ranging from 0.08 to 200 mg/mL. Comparison results were carried out using imipinem, miconazole and amphotericin B as standard antibiotics.
Earnings Management Strategies and the Trade‐Off between Tax Benefits and Detection Risk: To Conform or Not to Conform?

ABSTRACT: Prior research has separately examined pretax earnings management activities that have current taxable income consequences (book‐tax “conforming earnings management”) and those that do not have current taxable income consequences (book‐tax “nonconforming earnings management”). Our study documents the prevalence of, and then investigates the firm‐specific characteristics that impact the choice between, these earnings management strategies. We utilize a sample of firms that restated their earnings downward due to accounting irregularities and thus can be presumed to have managed earnings upward. We find that nonconforming earnings management is more prevalent and that firms trade off the net present value of tax benefits against the net expected detection costs associated with nonconforming earnings management. In particular, firms having NOL carryforwards, using a high‐quality auditor, or engaging in the most egregious misstatements rely less on nonconforming earnings management strategies. We al.
The leaf waxes of the genus Eucalyptus L'Héritier

A survey of 315 species of the genus Eucalyptus demonstrated that the patterns of leaf wax structure as revealed by means of electron microscopy can in some instances aid the classification of this taxonomically complex genus. Within Eucalyptus there are three main wax types: plates, tubes, and a mixed wax of both plates and tubes. The degree of ornamentation of the margins of the plates can frequently be correlated with taxonomic groupings or suggested evolutionary trends based on other lines of evidence. Similarly tube waxes, depending on their branching pattern and arrangement on the leaf surface, also proved useful as indicators of natural groupings of species. A number of taxa known to be misfits on various morphological characters within the most widely used classification of the genus (Blakely's "Key to the Eucalypts") are also shown to be misfits on the basis of wax characters. Already recognized affinities of large groups of species within the genus are supported by evidence from wax morphology. A study of the chemistry of eucalypt waxes by means of infrared and ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy confirms many of the results of the taxonomic study based on wax morphology.
Measurement of the strange quark contribution to the vector structure of the proton

The goal of the G0 experiment is to determine the contribution of the strange quarks in the quark-antiquark sea to the structure of the nucleon. To this end, the experiment measured parityviolating asymmetries from elastic electron-proton scattering from 0.12 ≤ Q2 ≤ 1.0 (GeV/c)2 at Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility. These asymmetries come from the interference of the electromagnetic and neutral weak interactions, and are sensitive to the strange quark contributions in the proton. The results from the forward-angle measurement, the linear combination of the strange electric and magnetic form factors GsE +ηGsM, suggest possible non-zero, Q2 dependent, strange quark contributions and provide new information to understand the magnitude of the contributions. This dissertation presents the analysis and results of the forward-angle measurement. In addition, the G0 experiment measured the beam-normal single-spin asymmetry in the elastic scattering of transversely polarized 3 GeV electrons from unpolarized protons at Q2 = 0.15, 0.25 (GeV/c)2 as part of the forward-angle measurement. The transverse asymmetry provides a direct probe of the imaginary component of the two-photon exchange amplitude, the complete description of which is important in the interpretation of data from precision electron-scattering experiments. The results of the measurement indicate that calculations using solelymore » the elastic nucleon intermediate state are insufficient and generally agree with calculations that include significant inelastic hadronic intermediate state contributions. This dissertation presents the analysis and results of this measurement. « less
Hematology, Serum Chemistry, and Cytology Findings from Apparently Healthy Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) Inhabiting the Estuarine Waters of Charleston, South Carolina

This study reports comprehensive baseline data for hematology, serum chemistry, and cytology variables in 63 apparently healthy Atlantic bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) inhabiting the estuarine waters of Charleston (CHS), South Carolina (SC). Blood and cytology samples were collected from bottlenose dolphins in August 2003 and August 2004 during capture-release health assessment studies. Means, medians, standard deviations, 95% CI, and ranges were calculated for the population’s hematology, serum biochemistry, and serum protein electrophoresis parameters. All of the parameters for which a published range was available were close to or within the ranges previously reported. Comparisons by age, gender, and pregnancy status revealed statistically significant differences (p ences (p ences ( < 0.05) for several hematology and serum chemistry parameters. Blowhole, rectal, and gastric swabs were examined for cytologic abnormalities, utilizing light microscopy. There were no pathologic findings in the samples; however, 4% (2/51) of the dolphins sampled had mild or moderate blowhole inflammation. The prevalence of gastric inflammation was 26% (13/50), and severe gastric inflammation was present in three of the dolphins sampled (6%). The majority of animals with gastric inflammation were male (10/13, 77%). In fact, all cases of severe inflammation occurred in males, and none were present in 2004. These data provide a baseline from which to compare hematological, serum chemistry, and cytological parameters in wild dolphin populations.
Hepatocyte Growth Factor Regulation of Uterine Epithelial Cell Transepithelial Resistance and Tumor Necrosis Factor α Release in Culture1

Abstract Underlying stromal cells are essential for the normal development of epithelial cells (ECs) at mucosal surfaces. Recent studies from our laboratory have shown that uterine stromal cells regulate EC integrity, measured as transepithelial resistance (TER) as well as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α α secretion by ECs in culture. Using stromal cells in coculture with polarized ECs grown on inserts, we found that stromal cells produce soluble mediators that increase TER and decrease TNFα secretion. The purpose of the present study was to identify the mechanisms whereby stromal cells exert their effects on uterine epithelium. We report that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), a known mesenchymal growth factor that mediates EC proliferation, increases TER but, at the same time, decreases apical TNFα release. When ECs and/or stromal cells were incubated with anti-HGF or anti-HGF receptor (HGFR) antibody before HGF, the effects of HGF were blocked. These findings indicate that ECs express the HGFR at their basolateral surfaces and that HGFR mediates the effects of HGF on TER and TNFα. Neutralization of stromal cell secretions with antibodies for HGF and HGFR demonstrate that stromal-derived HGF is the mediator of EC TER. In contrast, neither anti-HGF antibody nor HGFR antibody had any effect on stromal cell-induced decreases in TNFα secretion. From these results, we conclude that stromal cell regulation of EC TER is mediated through the secretion of stromal HGF. Furthermore, because neutralization of stromal media failed to affect TNFα secretion, these findings suggest that other growth factors, in addition to HGF, affect EC cytokine production.
An exploration of student perception of a business simulation game

Introduction It is well established in the literature that simulation games are, in themselves, not self-teaching (Gillespie, 1973) and that a number of features impinge upon the learning experience. These include various aspects of course and simulation game design. Important issues comprise choice of assessment method, the roles of briefing and debriefing, and the effective integration of other taught elements. Equally, research in a variety of educational contexts indicates that the personal characteristics of students influence many aspects of learning, for example learning style and instructional preferences. Thus, the profile of students taking part in a simulation game is likely to be important. Personal characteristics such as age and gender may have an impact on how students perceive and experience learning through simulation games, as might their prior educational and learning experiences.
Effects of the introduced ectoparasite Philornis downsi on haemoglobin level and nestling survival in Darwin's Small Ground Finch (Geospiza fuliginosa)

The physiological impacts and fitness costs of parasitism by an introduced ectoparasitic fly, Philornis downsi (Muscidae), were studied in nestlings of Darwin's Small Ground Finch, Geospiza fuliginosa (Geospizinae), on the Galapagos Archipelago. Whole blood haemoglobin (Hb) concentration was used to measure host response to ectoparasitism due to its high repeatability and validity, as well as for its key role in aerobic activities that affect fitness, such as flight capacity and nestling begging intensity. Increased numbers of ectoparasitic larvae of P. downsi were strongly correlated with lower Hb levels in nestlings in the absence of blood parasites. Furthermore, immature red blood cell counts were negatively correlated with Hb level and positively correlated with P. downsi intensity. Nestlings with high levels of parasitism suffered higher mortality, which varied with clutch size. Our results provide evidence that endemic Galapagos bird populations are physiologically compromised by P. downsi and experience substantial fitness costs due to ectoparasitism.
Effects of CO2Enrichment on Trees and Forests: Lessons to be Learned in View of Future Ecosystem Studies

Abstract Because of their prominent role in global bioproductivity and because of their complex structure and function, forests and tree species deserve particular attention in studies on the likely impact of elevated atmospheric CO2on terrestrial vegetation. Besides a synoptic review of some of the most prominent above-ground response processes, particular attention is given to below-ground responses of trees to elevated atmospheric CO2, while some feedback processes and interactions with various biotic and abiotic factors are also briefly summarized. At the leaf level there is little evidence of the long-term loss of sensitivity to CO2that was suggested by earlier experiments with tree seedlings in pots. Future studies on photosynthesis measurements will probably not alter our conclusions about acclimation, but should focus more on respiration under elevated CO2, which is still poorly understood. At the tree level, the increase in growth observed in elevated CO2results from an increase in both leaf area and leaf photosynthetic rate (per unit leaf area). Tree growth enhancement is generally larger at high rates of nutrient supply; when nutrient supply rates do not meet growth rates, tree nutrient status declines and nutrients become limiting. In many studies at the canopy level, a shift in whole-tree carbon allocation pattern towards below-ground parts has been associated with increased atmospheric CO2concentrations. At the ecosystem level, a larger amount of carbon being allocated below-ground could show up by either (1) more root growth and turnover, (2) enhanced activity of root-associated microorganisms, (3) larger microbial biomass pools and enhanced microbial activity, or (4) increased losses of soil carbon through soil respiration. Fine root production is generally enhanced, but it is not clear whether this response would persist in a forest. As elevated CO2stimulates biomass production, litterfall and rhizodeposition also increase. This increased delivery of labile organic matter to the soil could influence soil microbial communities and subsequent decomposition rates, nutrient availability and carbon storage in soil. There are, however, contradictory hypothesis about the direction in which nutrient availability will be affected. Knowledge of the response of these and other ecophysiological processes to elevated CO2is the key to understanding the functioning of the whole forest ecosystem. Our current knowledge is sufficiently large with regard to how the carbon uptake process and individual tree growth respond under atmospheric changes, but more emphasis should be put in future experiments on the interactions between various processes, such as the carbon and nitrogen cycles, and on below-ground responses.
Saproxylic Insect Ecology and the Sustainable Management of Forests

Saproxylic insects comprise a diverse, species-rich and dominant functional group that share a dependence on dead wood and the old trees that generate it (mature timber habitat). Recent research has highlighted their sensitivity to forest management, with managed or secondary forests generally supporting fewer individuals, fewer species, and different assemblages compared to old-growth or primary forests. This sensitivity is a product of their association with a habitat that tends to diminish in managed forests. Many species also have low powers of dispersal relative to human-induced fragmentation, making breaks in habitat continuity particularly harmful. In western Europe, many species are now regionally extinct. Information is largely lacking elsewhere, but similar ecological and management principles should apply. Measures taken to protect the habitat of hollow-dependent vertebrates may ensure the survival of some saproxylic insects, but unless their needs are expressly considered, there remains the risk that many others may be lost as forest areas shrink and management of remaining areas intensifies.
Reconnecting to Mission: Connecticut College's Outreach to New London during the Claire Gaudiani Era

During her presidency (1988–2001), Claire Gaudiani reconnected Connecticut College with New London, the college’s home city, whose citizens through grassroots fund raising and donations of land established the college in 1911. Through an emphasis on service-learning, community outreach, and an education not for oneself as well as economic investments in the revitalization of downtown New London, Connecticut College established a model that Gaudiani hoped other colleges would follow. Yet opposition to the investment of College funds to redevelop downtown New London led to Gaudiani’s departure after a majority of Connecticut College’s tenured professors signed a petition calling for her ouster. Though not entirely successful in achieving her economic redevelopment agenda, Gaudiani deserves credit and praise for establishing engagement and service-learning initiatives that continue to manifest the ideals expressed by Connecticut College’s initial founding mission and promise.
Molecular evidence of radiation hormesis at occupational exposure

The idea of favourable effects of low dose ionising radiation in biological systems has existed for many years and is the basis of radiation hormesis hypothesis. New evidence at subcellular levels might contribute to further clarify this problem. We used molecular epidemiological biomarkers (DNA/protein changes in peripheral blood; immunological changes in lymphocytes) in occupationally-exposed individuals (400 Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) workers). Two levels of investigations were studied: molecular (spontaneous and induced DNA repair by unscheduled DNA synthesis, induced protein synthesis, DNA damage) and cellular (lymphocyte subsets, immunofluorescent-stained mouse monoclonal antibodies). Potentially lethal damage is decreased in persons with mean annual dose ≤5 mSv. The highest repair capacity (after 2 Gy γ-rays) was also evaluated. Significant decreases of CD3+4+, CD4+25+, CD4+62L+ lymphocytes and CD4/CD8 ratio were observed at <200 mSv. Simultaneously, increased natural killer cells, CD57+8+, CD8+28+ .
Maternal basking opportunity affects juvenile phenotype in a viviparous lizard

1. The effects of external conditions on embryonic development have been repeatedly examined in oviparous reptile species, but the effect of gestation conditions on offspring traits in viviparous species has rarely been examined. 2. The influence of maternal basking opportunities on gestation length and juvenile phenotype was investigated in a viviparous scincid lizard, Niveoscincus ocellatus. Females were housed under one of two experimental regimes (10 or 4 h access to basking) which reflected the natural variation in temperature, potentially one of the most important proximate sources of life-history variation. 3. Females with longer access to basking gave birth significantly earlier than those with reduced basking opportunities. Maternal access to basking significantly affected the phenotype and growth rate of her offspring. 4. Offspring born after relatively rapid development were longer, heavier and in better condition than offspring born after slower development. 5. In standard laboratory conditions, offspring born after rapid development grew more rapidly than those born after slower development, thus amplifying the difference in body size between these two groups postpartum. 6. These results suggest the existence of a strong selective pressure on female basking behaviour through the effect of the maternal environment on embryo development and offspring phenotype and highlight the role of temperature as a proximate source of variation in both the timing of reproductive events and in key life-history traits of neonates.
A simple and universal method for molecular sexing of non-ratite birds

Molecular sexing is an attractive means to determine the sex of sexually monomorphic birds, e.g. chicks of most species. A universal approach for molecular sexing of birds would require that a conserved W chromosome-linked sequence could be analysed, but no single gene has previously been known from any avian W chromosome. The recent discovery of the CHD1W gene, apparently W-linked in all non-ratite birds, has opened new possibilities in this direction, although there is a problem in that the gene also exists in a very similar copy on the Z chromosome (CHD1Z). Here we describe a universal method for molecular sexing of non-ratite birds which is based on the detection of a constant size difference between CHD1W and CHD1Z introns. Using highly conserved primers flanking the intron, PCR amplification and agarose electrophoresis, females are characterised by displaying one (CHD1W) or two fragments (CHD1W and CHD1Z), while males only show one fragment (CHD1Z) clearly different in size from the female-specific CHD1W fragment. With one particular pair of primers (2550F and 2718R) we applied this test to 50 bird species from 11 orders throughout the avian phylogeny, successfully sexing 47 of the species. Using an alternative pair of primers, the three failing species could be reliably sexed. This means that a simple, rapid and cheap universal system for molecular sexing of non-ratite birds is now available.
Flowering Ecology of Some Spring Woodland Herbs

Fecundity characteristics, phenology, and behavior of insect flower-visitors were stud- ied for 7 early flowering woodland herbs: Claytonia virginica, Dentaria laciniata, Dicentra canaden- sis, Dicentra cucullaria, Erythronium albidum, Isopyrum biternatum, and Sanguinaria canadensis. Sanguinaria canadensis is facultatively autogamous, the Dicentras are obligate outcrossers, and the remainder are self-compatible, at least within a stem. All are insect pollinated except sometimes S. canadensis. The numbers of ovules per flower and flowers per stem tended to be inversely correlated, and large-seeded species (S. canadensis, E. albidum, I. biternatum) had lower numbers of potential seeds per stem than did small-seeded species. Flowering of all species typically occurred during the first prolonged period of weather suitable for pollinator activity and ceased by the time the canopy closed. Annual differences in flowering times were associated with differences in average temperatures (i.e., early blooming in a warm, early spring), but cumulative degree-hours or degree-days of air or soil temperatures were not well corre- lated with flowering times. Other constraints on flowering phenology are discussed, including the predictability of suitable conditions, a proposed "fail-safe" mechanism that may assure flowering before canopy closure even if temperatures are abnormally low, and the importance of nontemperature factors in defining suitable conditions. Flowering time was not very finely tuned to the temperature regime and pollinator activity; flowers blooming during the flowering peak often had low seed pro- duction and the fertilization rate of most species was low. Evidence that seed production may have been pollinator limited for several species was obtained by comparing the success of hand pollination and of natural pollination, rarity of certain specialized pollinators, and estimates of the abortion rates of fertilized ovules. We suggest that flowering in early spring is a high-risk option in terms of insect- mediated sexual reproduction. Certain flower-visiting insects favored D. laciniata out of proportion to its abundance, but no effect on seed set of other species was detectable. Honeybees were abundant and active flower visitors with the potential for disrupting ecological/evolutionary relationshps between native insects and flowers.