cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Plasma enhancement of femtosecond laser-induced electromagnetic pulses at metal and dielectric surfaces

In a previous report, we have shown that the long wavelength, electromagnetic-pulsed (EMP) energy generated by ultrashort (38 fs) laser pulse ablation of a metal target is enhanced by an order of magnitude due to a preplasma generated by a different, 14-ns-long laser pulse. Here, we further investigate this EMP enhancement effect in a 2- to 16-GHz microwave region with different target materials and laser parameters. Specifically, we show a greater than two orders of magnitude enhancement to the EMP energy when the nanosecond and ultrashort laser pulses are coincident on a glass target, and greater than one order of magnitude enhancement when the pulses are coincident on a copper target.
Methyl Phenylalkanoates as Substrates to Probe the Active Sites of Esterases

We have used methyl esters of phenylalkanoic acids to probe the active site of two esterases (FAE-III and CinnAE) from Aspergillus niger. Only methyl 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamate and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylpropionate out of 19 substrates tested were significant substrates for both enzymes (k(cat) values about 10(2) s(-1) and 10(3) s(-1), respectively). Lengthening or shortening the aliphatic side chain while maintaining the same aromatic substitutions completely abolished activity for both enzymes, which demonstrates the importance of the correct distance between the aromatic group and the ester bond. Differences in Km values for FAE-III were small (0.45-2.08 mM) but there were two orders of magnitude difference in k(cat) values (12.1-1063 s(-1)), whereas for CinnAE, there were large differences in values for both Km (0.014-1.32 mM) and k(cat) (41.3-1410 s(-1)). Lability of the ester bonds, as estimated from second-order rate constants (k2) for chemical reaction with sodium hydroxide, did not correlate to k(cat) for CinnAE (r = 0.33) or for FAE-III (r = 0.43). Maintaining the phenylpropenoate structure but altering the substitutions on the aromatic ring demonstrated the following: a 3-methoxy group is essential for FAE-III activity, whereas a 3-methoxy group precluded activity of CinnAE, with the exception of methyl 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamate which was a relatively poor substrate for CinnAE; (b) increasing the number of methoxy substitutions increased the activity of FAE-III, and decreased the activity of CinnAE; (c) 4-hydroxy substituents, and additional hydroxy substituents, increased the activity of CinnAE, but decreased that of FAE-III; (d) the rate of hydrolysis with sodium hydroxide of the methyl esters in general is decreased by hydroxy substitutions on the aromatic ring but increased by methoxy substitutions. Analysis of kinetic data obtained in the presence of inhibitors indicated that substrate analogs were able to bind to both free CinnAE and to a CinnAE-substrate complex, but conversely, were only able to bind to free FAE-III. The results show that the specificities of the two A. niger esterases are complementary. The rate of hydrolysis by this class of carboxylic ester hydrolase does not depend on the intrinsic lability of the ester bond, but depends on both the distance between the aromatic ring and the ester bond, and the substitutions on the aromatic ring.
The Higgs resonance shape

Abstract We calculate perturbatively the Higgs resonance shape in longitudinal vector-boson scattering. We find that the physical Higgs mass is less than the energy at which the modulus of the amplitude peaks. Our calculation respects the upper bound imposed by unitarity on the modulus of the amplitude.
Off the Paved Paths: Exploring Nature with a Mobile Augmented Reality Learning Tool

Mobile augmented reality (MAR) is an increasingly popular technology for enhancing how people interact with and learn about the environment and objects in the physical world. However, little is known about what aspects of a MAR interface can enhance student learning and engagement. Building on field observations and interviews with experts, and formative studies on how mobile learners navigate spaces using different interfaces, the authors have designed, built, and evaluated the GreenHat MAR application to help students learn about biodiversity and sustainability issues in their natural environment. The authorsâ€™ evaluation of the GreenHat MAR prototypes suggests that in comparison to a digital map on the same smartphone, MAR encouraged students to more carefully scrutinize physical field sites, and led them to make more personal discoveries to the subject matter being learned. They present the iterative design process, results from the authorsâ€™ studies, and discuss the implications for the design of mobile learning tools.
Forced Convection in a Channel Filled With a Porous Medium: An Exact Solution

In this paper fully developed forced convection in a porous channel bounded by parallel plates is considered based on the general flow model. Exact solutions are obtained and presented for both the velocity and the temperature fields. From these results the Nusselt number can be expressed in terms of the Darcy number and the inertia parameter. Finally, comparisons are made with the limiting case of no inertia and/or boundary effects. These results provide an in-depth insight into the underlying relationships between all of the pertinent variables. Furthermore, they can be used as strong candidates for bench marking of many numerical schemes.
Staphylococcus aureus infections in the early period after lung transplantation: epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes.

BACKGROUND Staphylococcus aureus infections among lung transplant recipients are poorly studied. METHODS We conducted a 5-year retrospective study of the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, risk factors, and outcomes of patients infected with S aureus within the first 90 days after lung transplantation. RESULTS An S aureus infection developed in 109 of 596 lung transplant (18%) recipients. Methicillin-susceptible S aureus (MSSA; 62%) was more common than methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA; 38%); however, the proportion of infections caused by MRSA increased over time. Pneumonia (48%) was the most common infection, followed by tracheobronchitis (26%), bacteremia (12%), intrathoracic infections (7%), and skin/soft tissue infections (7%). Risk factors included mechanical ventilation for >5 days and isolation of S aureus from recipients' sterility cultures. Patients with MRSA cultured from the nares or respiratory tract at the time of transplant were at an increased risk for MRSA infection ( p p =0.02, respectively). Infected patients required longer hospital and intensive care unit stays ( p p =0.048) and 3 years ( p =0.002), and higher rates of mortality at 1 ( p =0.058) and 3 years ( p =0.009). Conclusions S aureus infections within the first 90 days of lung transplant were associated with low short-term mortality but increased long-term rates of mortality and acute and chronic rejection. Future studies are needed to explore the utility of S aureus eradication strategies in reducing disease burden and improving outcomes.
Wind-Driven Circulation in the Chesapeake Bay, Winter, 1975

Abstract Nontidal circulation in Chesapeake Bay was examined from one-month current records at 50 and 200 km from the entrance. The monthly mean flow was basically a two-layered circulation; in addition, there were large wind-driven velocity fluctuations at several-day time scales. Corresponding to velocity changes, the salinity distribution had large variations, comparable to its seasonal change. Bay water responded to longitudinal (local) wind and coastal (nonlocal) Ekman flux. The response was barotropic in the lower Bay, and baroclinic (frictional) in the upper Bay. The difference in response characteristic appears to be due to the counter-effects of the near-surface windstress shear and the depth-independent surface slope. A frictional model accounts for most of the observed features. Results of this study provide further evidence of large, atmospherically induced exchange between the estuary and coastal ocean. The importance of wind on upstream salt intrusions is also clearly demonstrated.
Characterization of the muscarinic receptor subtype mediating pilocarpine-induced tremulous jaw movements in rats

Abstract Four muscarinic receptor antagonists with varying selectivities for the four pharmacologically-defined muscarinic receptor subtypes (M1–M4) were administered into the lateral ventricle to determine their relative potency in reducing tremulous jaw movements induced by i.p. injection of the muscarinic receptor agonist pilocarpine (4.0 mg/kg). All four muscarinic receptor antagonists reduced tremulous jaw movements in a dose-dependent manner, with the following rank order of potency: scopolamine>methoctramine≥telenzepine>pirenzepine. This pattern is inconsistent with the rank order of affinity of these agents at the muscarinic M1 receptor, and is consistent with their rank order of affinity at muscarinic M2 or M4 receptors. Because tremulous jaw movements are related to striatal function, and the muscarinic M4 receptor is more predominant than the muscarinic M2 receptor as a post-synaptic receptor in striatum, the present results suggest that pilocarpine induces jaw movements due to muscarinic M4 receptor stimulation. In view of the hypothesized relation between parkinsonism and cholinomimetic-induced jaw movements, these data suggest that a centrally-acting muscarinic M4 receptor antagonist could be useful as an antiparkinsonian agent.
Information warfare: peering inside Pandora’s postmodern box

Aims to demonstrate how information warfare (IW) is being progressively domesticated and how it democratizes warfare. Briefly outlines the so‐called Revolution in Military Affairs. Presents an overview of the various modalities of IW. Introduces the defining features of IW from both the attacker’s and the target’s perspective. Describes types of offence and defence. Assesses the extent to which IW and information terrorism are having or will have an impact on the daily lives of individual groups and considers the various social actors. Offers some observations on the negative externalities and possible longer term social costs associated with IW and information terrorism in the civil sphere.
Carriage burden, multiple colonization and antibiotic pressure promote emergence of resistant vaccine escape pneumococci

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines target the limited subset of the more than 90 known serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae responsible for the greatest burden of pneumococcal disease and antibiotic resistance. Following the introduction of these vaccines, serotypes not targeted were able to expand and resistance became more common within these types. Here we use a stochastic dynamic model of pediatric pneumococcal carriage to evaluate potential influences on the emergence of new resistant lineages following the introduction of a vaccine targeting more common resistant types. Antibiotic pressure was the strongest driver, with no emergence at low levels and universal emergence at high levels. At intermediate levels of antibiotic pressure, higher carriage burden and a greater degree of dual carriage promoted emergence. This may have implications for current plans to introduce childhood pneumococcal vaccination in several high-burden countries.
Structures and gas separation properties of asymmetric polysulfone membranes made by dry, wet, and dry/wet phase inversion

Integrally skinned asymmetric gas separation membranes were prepared by (i) dry, (ii) wet, and (iii) dry/wet phase inversion processes. The membranes were cast from a polysulfone/methylene chloride/1,1,2-trichloroethane/2-methyl-2-butanol casting system. Wet and dry/wet phase inversion membranes were quenched in methanol. Membranes made by dry/wet phase inversion using convective evaporation showed optimum gas separation performance. The average O2/N2 and He/N2 selectivities of these membranes were within 85% of those determined for a dense, solution-cast polysulfone film, suggesting that the ultrathin skin layers were essentially defect free. The average apparent skin layer thickness of all samples tested was 270 A. Scanning electron photomicrographs revealed that optimum membranes made by dry/wet phase inversion consist of an ultrathin skin layer, a tightly packed nodular transition layer, and an open-cell, sponge-like substructure. Dry/wet phase inversion membranes prepared by free-standing evaporation resulted either in high flux and low selectivity membranes or essentially defect-free membranes with fluxes lower than those made by convective evaporation. Dry-phase inversion membranes exhibited extremely low gas fluxes due to thick (17.5 μm) skin layers. On the other hand, wet phase inversion membranes showed O2/N2 selectivities < 1, indicating that gas transport was determined by pore flow through skin layer defects.
Optimal Target t Designation Techniques

Studies of signal processing techniques are presented for achieving optimal autonomous acquisition of stationary targets located in a moderately intense nonhomogeneous radar ground clutter background. The process of target acquisition comprises three basic functions: 1) target detection, 2) target selection or designation, and 3) reacquiring the target for tracking. It is the second of these functions, i.e., autonomous designation of a target, that is the subject of this discussion. Theoretical analyses and predictions of the probability of correct target designation for two acquisition search methods are presented and compared with results achieved using real radar imagery.
The Role of a Dipeptide Outer-Coordination Sphere on H2-Production Catalysts: Influence on Catalytic Rates and Electron Transfer

The outer-coordination sphere of enzymes acts to fine-tune the active site reactivity and control catalytic rates, suggesting that incorporation of analogous structural elements into molecular catalysts may be necessary to achieve rates comparable to those observed in enzyme systems at low overpotentials. In this work, we evaluate the effect of an amino acid and dipeptide outer-coordination sphere on [Ni(PPh2NPh-R2)2]2+ hydrogen production catalysts. A series of 12 new complexes containing non-natural amino acids or dipeptides were prepared to test the effects of positioning, size, polarity and aromaticity on catalytic activity. The non-natural amino acid was either 3-(meta- or para-aminophenyl)propionic acid terminated as an acid, an ester or an amide. Dipeptides consisted of one of the non-natural amino acids coupled to one of four amino acid esters: alanine, serine, phenylalanine or tyrosine. All of the catalysts are active for hydrogen production, with rates averaging ~1000 s-1, 40% faster than the unmodified catalyst. Structure and polarity of the aliphatic or aromatic side chains of the C-terminal peptide do not strongly influence rates. However, the presence of an amide bond increases rates, suggesting a role for the amide in assisting catalysis. Overpotentials were lower with substituents at the N-phenyl meta position. This is consistentmore » with slower electron transfer in the less compact, para-substituted complexes, as shown in digital simulations of catalyst cyclic voltammograms and computational modeling of the complexes. Combining the current results with insights from previous results, we propose a mechanism for the role of the amino acid and dipeptide based outer-coordination sphere in molecular hydrogen production catalysts.« less
Semiactive Control for Vibration Attenuation

With the advent of materials, such as electrorheological fluids, whose material prop erties can be altered rapidly by means of external stimuli, employing such materials as actuators for the contro...
Cyclization of the phosphorus chain of the methylene-bridged analogs of adenosine triphosphate.

Abstract The phosphorus-containing side chains of two methylene-bridged analogs of adenosine triphosphate have been cyclized to produce the corresponding analogs of monoadenosine-5′-trimetaphosphate: adenosine-5′-O P(O)OP(O)(OH)CH 2 P(O)(OH)O and adenosine-5′-O P*(O)CH 2 P(O)(OH)OP(O)(OH)O The molecules, which were generated in anhydrous media through a carbodi- imide-mediated condensation, were characterized by 31P nuclear-magnetic resonance, and the white-noise 1H decoupled spectra were simulated. These molecules are quite reactive and readily converted to their corresponding linear forms upon hydrolysis. The second structure contains an asymmetric phosphorus atom, and both of the possible cyclic molecules have been ob- served and the diasteroisometric mixture has been isolated.
Eating behaviors of children in the context of their family environment

Both a family history of obesity and early childhood obesity have been identified as strong predictors of adult obesity risk. The finding that parental obesity, maternal obesity in particular, increases a child's risk for developing obesity suggests that either shared genes, or environment, or likely a combination of both may promote overeating and excessive weight gain in children. Parents not only create food environments for children's early experiences with food and eating, but they also influence their children's eating by modeling their own eating behaviors, taste preferences, and food choices. Thus, it is important to identify intermediary behavioral eating traits which promote overeating and obesity in children and to determine the extent to which associations between eating traits and excessive weight gain in children may be influenced by genetic factors, environmental factors, or both. Behavioral genetic methods can be used to help partition genetic and environmental sources of variability in behavioral traits. The focus of this paper is to review and discuss findings from both short-term experimental and prospective cohort studies on eating behaviors of children at various stages in their lives. Select child eating traits and parent-child resemblances in eating will be further examined in the context of children's home environment and their familial predisposition to obesity. The paper represents an invited review by a symposium, award winner or keynote speaker at the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior [SSIB] Annual Meeting in Portland, July 2009.
The in situ generation of Ph3P=C(CF3)2. a facile one pot conversion of aldehydes to bis-trifluoromethyl olefins.

Abstract The in situ reaction of triphenylphosphine with tetrakis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dithietane in the presence of aliphatic or aromatic aldehydes gives good to excellent yields of bis-trifluoromethyl olefins.
High-Energy Photodisintegration of He 4

The two-body photodisintegration of ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ into two deuterons has been observed for average photon energies of 221 MeV and 265 MeV. The forward deuteron was detected at a laboratory angle of 45\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}. Absolute differential cross sections for the process were determined and total cross sections, assuming a ${sin}^{2}\ensuremath{\theta}$ ${cos}^{2}\ensuremath{\theta}$ angular distribution, were calculated and compared with upper limits on the cross section for the inverse process, $d+d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{He}}^{4}+\ensuremath{\gamma}$. The results were also compared with theoretical estimates for the cross sections using two different wave functions to describe the ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ ground state. Data were also obtained for photoproton emission from ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ and are compared with previous measurements. These latter results are also discussed in the light of the quasideuteron model of Levinger.
Illustrating two complementary enterprises at the interface of psychology and religion through reading Winnicott

Our work at the interface of psychology and religion can proceed in two complementary directions. When reading a psychological theory, (1) we may pay special attention to how certain concepts in particular, and the system of ideas as a whole, are being or might be used to interpret religious phenomena. We may focus on how those ideas may be involved in doing “psychology of religion”: the psychological interpretation of religious phenomena. Alternatively, (2) we may pay special attention to how certain concepts in particular, and the system of ideas as a whole, are being or might be used, either implicitly or explicitly, to make claims about “human nature,” about the meaning and purpose of life, about “God.” We may identify the “psychology as religion-theology”: psychological ideas potentially functioning in a religious-theological manner. I will illustrate this by: (a) examining D. W. Winnicott's article, “Transitional Objects and Transitional Phenomena” (1953/1986) in terms of three successive concepts or categories: transitional object, transitional phenomena, and “a third intermediate area of experiencing”; (b) considering how these categories can be used in psychology “of” religion; (c) reconsidering how the “psychological” categories may function “as” religious-theological. The discussion is intended to illustrate how we might more fully appreciate how and why a psychological theory may “work” well in doing psychology of religion when we more fully appreciate how that psychology implicitly functions as theology.
Ribosomal Mutations in Arcanobacterium pyogenes Confer a Unique Spectrum of Macrolide Resistance

Four macrolide-resistant Arcanobacterium pyogenes isolates contained A2058T, A2058G, or C2611G (Escherichia coli numbering) mutations in their 23S rRNA genes. While these mutations conferred resistance to erythromycin, oleandomycin, and spiramycin, they did not confer resistance to tylosin.
New SETI Sky Surveys for Radio Pulses

Berkeley conducts 7 SETI programs at IR, visible and radio wavelengths. Here we review two of the newest e orts, Astropulse and Fly’s Eye. A variety of possible sources of microsecond to millisecond radio pulses have been suggested in the last several decades, among them such exotic events as evaporating primordial black holes, hyper-flares from neutron stars, emissions from cosmic strings or perhaps extraterrestrial civilizations, but to-date few searches have been conducted capable of detecting them. The recent announcement by Lorimer et al. of the detection of a powerful ( 30 Jy) and highly dispersed ( 375 cm 3 pc) radio pulse in Parkes multi-beam survey data has fueled additional interest in such phenomena. We are carrying out two searches in hopes of finding and characterizing these s to ms time scale dispersed radio pulses. These two observing programs are orthogonal in search space; the Allen Telescope Array’s (ATA) “Fly’s Eye” experiment observes a 100 square degree field by pointing each 6m ATA antenna in a di erent direction; by contrast, the Astropulse sky survey at Arecibo is extremely sensitive but has 1/3,000 of the instantaneous sky coverage. Astropulse’s multibeam data is transferred via the internet to the computers of millions of volunteers. These computers perform a coherent de-dispersion analysis faster than the fastest available supercomputers and allow us to resolve pulses as short as 400 ns. Overall, the Astropulse survey will be 30 times more sensitive than the best previous searches. Analysis of results from Astropulse is at a very early stage. The Fly’s Eye was successfully installed at the ATA in December of 2007, and to-date approximately 450 hours of observation has been performed. We have detected three pulsars (B0329+54, B0355+54, B0950+08) and six giant pulses from the Crab pulsar in our diagnostic pointing data. We have not yet detected any other convincing bursts of astronomical origin in our survey data.
Decrements in Nuclear Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR) Protein Levels and DNA Binding in Aged Rat Hippocampus

Hippocampal glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) are believed to play a major role in age-related cognitive decline and cellular vulnerability. It has been proposed that these receptors mediate damaging effects of elevated glucocorticoid secretion on cellular function. In the present report we present evidence that intracellular trafficking of the GR is impaired with hippocampal aging, manifest as decreased nuclear translocation and deficient DNA binding. We also present evidence that chaperone proteins responsible for GR nuclear translocation are decreased with hippocampal aging. Age-related nuclear GR decreases are not observed in hypothalamus, indicating regional specificity of trafficking deficits. Aging did not affect nuclear or cytosolic MR levels. These data suggest that GR signaling is diminished, rather than enhanced, during hippocampal aging. Diminished GR signaling capacity may attenuate the beneficial effects of glucocorticoids on hippocampal regulation of memory and stress integration.
Revisiting Database Resource Choice: A Framework for DBMS Course Tool Selection

Database courses have long been a core dimension of Information Systems programs. As database tools and resources continue to evolve, educators are faced with changing options for supporting database education, including enterprise systems such as Oracle, DB2, and Teradata, open source alternatives such as MySQL and PostGreSQL, and commonly available PC-focused products such as Access and SQLServer. Based on a pilot survey of database educators worldwide, this paper presents an overview of the tool options within a context of the varied criteria used by educators to make their choices: cost, accessibility for students, ease of installation and use, support, industry relevance, and pedagogical goals. The purpose of this discussion is not to argue for a particular choice, but to provide a framework for selection based in individual database course or IS program needs and constraints.
Core complement policies for memory allocation and analysis

The increasing availability of hardware and software monitors facilitates the measurement of computer systems. The effective utilization and interrelation of these measurements is increased by the development of suitable system models. Model construction, in turn, requires a careful identification of the type of information which the model is to provide.
Dynamic pricing in a reputation brokered agent mediated knowledge marketplace

We study the microeconomic effects in a reputation brokered agent mediated knowledge marketplace, when we introduce dynamic pricing algorithms. We study the market with computer simulations of multiagent interactions. In this marketplace, the seller reputations are updated in a collaborative fashion based on the performance of the user in the delegated tasks. We investigate the different equilibria reached, based on the level of intelligence of the selling agents, the level of price-importance elasticity of the buying agents and the level of unemployment in the marketplace. In this agent mediated knowledge marketplace, buying agents try to maximize their owners' utilities based on the expected performance of the sellers (represented by their reputations) and the demanded compensations. Buyers configure their agents with their budget and time constraints and the importance of the specific task. The buying agents reveal only their time constraints and the descriptions of the tasks.
Towards quantitative metagenomics of wild viruses and other ultra‐low concentration DNA samples: a rigorous assessment and optimization of the linker amplification method

Summary Metagenomics generates and tests hypotheses about dynamics and mechanistic drivers in wild popula- tions, yet commonly suffers from insufficient (< 1 ng) starting genomic material for sequencing. Current solutions for amplifying sufficient DNA for metage- nomics analyses include linear amplification for deep sequencing (LADS), which requires more DNA than is normally available, linker-amplified shotgun libraries (LASLs), which is prohibitively low throughput, and whole-genome amplification, which is significantly biased and thus non-quantitative. Here, we adapt the LASL approach to next generation sequencing by offering an alternate polymerase for challenging samples, developing a more efficient sizing step, inte- grating a 'reconditioning PCR' step to increase yield and minimize late-cycle PCR artefacts, and empiri- cally documenting the quantitative capability of the optimized method with both laboratory isolate and wild community viral DNA. Our optimized linker amplification method requires as little as 1 pg of DNA and is the most precise and accurate available, with G + C content amplification biases less than 1.5-fold, even for complex samples as diverse as a wild virus community. While optimized here for 454 sequencing, this linker amplification method can be used to prepare metagenomics libraries for sequencing with
A dynamic model, including contact bounce, of an electrostatically actuated microswitch

Microelectromechanical devices are increasingly being integrated into electronic circuitry. One of these types of devices is the microswitch, which acts much like a three-terminal field-effect transistor (FET). While various microswitches are currently being developed, their dynamic behavior is not well understood. Upon closing, switches bounce several times before making permanent contact with the drain. In this paper, a time-transient finite difference analysis is used to model the dynamic behavior of two different electrostatically actuated microswitch configurations. The model uses dynamic Euler-Bernoulli beam theory for cantilevered beams, includes the electrostatic force from the gate, takes into account the squeeze-film damping between the switch and substrate, and includes a simple spring model of the contact tips. The model and simulation can be used as design tools to improve switch performance and reduce switch bounce in future designs.
Evaluation of Vapor-Plated Oxide Films for Capacitor Dielectrics

The development of vapor-plating techniques has made possible the preparation of a variety of oxide dielectric films. The work described in this paper is a preliminary evaluation of the physical and chemical properties of some of these films and their suitability for use as capacitor dielectrics. The physical structure of the films has been investigated by X-ray diffraction techniques. Physical and chemical stability of the films was evaluated by thermal shock tests, resistance to scratch and nature of scratch fractures produced, and a variety of chemical treatments. Optical interferomatic techniques were developed for the accurate measurement of film thickness for determination of dielectric constant, dielectric strength and resistivity. Electrical properties of the films were evaluated by capacitor measurements. Results indicate that vapor plated oxide dielectrics have good potential for capacitor applications. This technique has allowed fabrication of capacitors which show a dissipation factor of less than 1 per cent in the frequency range of 100 cps to 300 kc, a capacitance of more than 100 uuf/mm2, and a time constant of open circuit voltage decay in excess of 1000 seconds. Environmental and accelerated aging tests were carried out on the capacitors and a good correlation with the physical and chemical stability of the films was shown. Other applications for these films are under study.
Extracting Information about Security Vulnerabilities from Web Text

The Web is an important source of information about computer security threats, vulnerabilities and cyber attacks. We present initial work on developing a framework to detect and extract information about vulnerabilities and attacks from Web text. Our prototype system uses Wikitology, a general purpose knowledge base derived from Wikipedia, to extract concepts that describe specific vulnerabilities and attacks, map them to related concepts from DBpedia and generate machine understandable assertions. Such a framework will be useful in adding structure to already existing vulnerability descriptions as well as detecting new ones. We evaluate our approach against vulnerability descriptions from the National Vulnerability Database. Our results suggest that it can be useful in monitoring streams of text from social media or chat rooms to identify potential new attacks and vulnerabilities or to collect data on the spread and volume of existing ones.
VLSI-friendly algorithm for real-time spike sorting in Brain Machine Interface applications

Recent research in brain machine interface (BMI) has shown that cortical implants can record and wirelessly transmit neural activity to external workstations for further processing, spike sorting, and decoding. In order to reduce complexity, bandwidth, and power consumption of such systems we introduce a miniaturized real-time spike sorting VLSI architecture that is to very low signal-to-noise ratios (SNR). This completely eliminates any external spike sorting dependencies, thus, bringing the entire system one step closer to be all integrated and fully implanted. The algorithm used in this architecture exploits three features to achieve better classification and real-time sorting: the spatial neuronal distribution across electrodes, the temporal and spectral information in the spike waveforms from individual neurons, and hardware limitations imposed by the size of the implant.
Parental Investment Theory and Nest Defense by Eastern Kingbirds

Abstract Nest defense represents a parental strategy to maximize fitness by enhancing prospects of offspring survival. We used a taxidermic mount of a nest predator to measure nest defense of Eastern Kingbirds (Tyrannus tyrannus) at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in southeastern Oregon in 2003 and 2004 to test the hypotheses that intensity of nest defense (1) was individually repeatable, (2) differed between males and females, and (3) predicted nest success. We also predicted that (4) intensity of defense would increase with age and number of young, but decline over the breeding season. Intensity of nest defense was significantly repeatable for male kingbirds. Male response was twice as strong as female response during incubation and the nestling period, but nest success was independent of defense scores of males and females. Simple paired comparisons suggested female responses did not change between incubation and the nestling period, whereas males tended to defend nestlings more vigorously than eggs. ...
Synthetic biology: new engineering rules for an emerging discipline

Synthetic biologists engineer complex artificial biological systems to investigate natural biological phenomena and for a variety of applications. We outline the basic features of synthetic biology as a new engineering discipline, covering examples from the latest literature and reflecting on the features that make it unique among all other existing engineering fields. We discuss methods for designing and constructing engineered cells with novel functions in a framework of an abstract hierarchy of biological devices, modules, cells, and multicellular systems. The classical engineering strategies of standardization, decoupling, and abstraction will have to be extended to take into account the inherent characteristics of biological devices and modules. To achieve predictability and reliability, strategies for engineering biology must include the notion of cellular context in the functional definition of devices and modules, use rational redesign and directed evolution for system optimization, and focus on accomplishing tasks using cell populations rather than individual cells. The discussion brings to light issues at the heart of designing complex living systems and provides a trajectory for future development.
Autism in the Balance

Alterations in the balance of excitatory and inhibitory activity in neurons are hypothesized to drive many aspects of autism. As genetic causes of autism are identified, a central challenge will be to identify specific pathways through which these can pathologically alter the excitatory-inhibitory (E-I) balance. A recent study by Bateup et al . identifies specific alterations linked to the tuberous sclerosis complex mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway and sheds light on how individual alterations exert either pathological or compensatory effects on E-I balance. Autism and epilepsy are major features of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in TSC1 or TSC2 , which negatively regulate mTOR complex 1. Although activity in the TSC-mTOR pathway is well known to promote cell growth and tumor formation, its effects on neuronal circuits are less clear. Bateup et al. identified genetic, cellular, and neural circuit changes that result from the loss of TSC1 by studying hippocampal cultures from mice in which TSC1 was knocked out as well as brain slices and mice in which TSC1 has been removed from more limited populations of neurons. They found that TSC1 knockout cultures have increased neuronal activity, and mice lacking TSC1 in forebrain excitatory neurons have spontaneous seizures. Some of the changes, such as the down-regulation of AMPA-type glutamate receptors and decreases in the intrinsic excitability of individual neurons, appear to represent compensations that nevertheless fail to restore the E-I balance. In contrast, a cell-autonomous decrease in the strength of inhibitory synapses on excitatory hippocampal neurons could tip the E-I balance toward excitation, leading to seizures. These types of changes are believed to lead to symptoms of autism in many cases as well. This study demonstrates that even though “E-I balance” may sometimes seem like a nebulous concept, it can be quantified in a meaningful way, making it possible to measure how specific factors alter this balance. At the same time, this work raises many questions, such as why are apparently compensatory processes engaged, but not in a way that ultimately restores E-I balance? In addition, previous studies have found that mutations linked to autism exert very different effects in different brain regions, so it will be important to determine whether the alterations in E-I balance observed here also occur outside the hippocampus. H. S. Bateup et al. , Excitatory/inhibitory synaptic imbalance leads to hippocampal hyperexcitability in mouse models of tuberous sclerosis. Neuron 78 , 510–522 (2013). [[Abstrct]][1] [1]: http://www.cell.com/neuron/retrieve/pii/S089662731300264X
Influence of Modified Atmosphere Packaging on Radiation Tolerance in the Phytosanitary Pest Melon Fly (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) produces a low-oxygen (O2) environment that can increase produce shelf life by decreasing product respiration and growth of pathogens. However, low O2 is known to increase insect tolerance to irradiation, and the use of MAP with products treated by irradiation before export to control quarantine pests may inadvertently compromise treatment efficacy. Melon fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillet (Diptera: Tephritidae), is an important economic and quarantine pest of tropical fruits and vegetables, and one of the most radiation-tolerant tephritid fruit flies known. The effect of low O2 generated by MAP on the radiation tolerance of B. cucurbitae was examined. Third-instar larval B. cucurbitae were inoculated into ripe papayas and treated by 1) MAP + irradiation, 2) irradiation alone, 3) MAP alone, or (4) no MAP and no irradiation, and held for adult emergence. Three types of commercially available MAP products were tested that produced O2 concentrations between 1 and 15%, and a sublethal radiation dose (50 Gy) was used to allow comparisons between treatments. Ziploc storage bags (1-4% O2) increased survivorship to adult from 14 to 25%, whereas Xtend PP61 bags (3-8% O2) and Xtend PP53 bags (11-15% O2) did not enhance survivorship to the adult stage in B. cucurbitae irradiated at 50 Gy. Radiation doses approved by the United States Department of Agriculture and the International Plant Protection Commission for B. cucurbitae and Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Mediterranean fruit fly) are 150 and 100 Gy, respectively. In large-scale tests, 9,000 B. cucurbitae and 3,800 C. capitata larvae infesting papayas in Ziploc bags were irradiated at 150 and 100 Gy, respectively, with no survivors to the adult stage. MAP can increase insect survivorship during irradiation treatment at certain doses and O2 concentrations, but should not compromise the efficacy of the 150-Gy generic radiation treatment for tephritid fruit flies or the 100-Gy radiation treatment for C. capitata.
Neurofeedback to Improve Physical Balance, Incontinence, and Swallowing

An innovative neurofeedback protocol for the treatment of problems with physical balance, incontinence, and swallowing is de- scribed. Successful case reports from four consecutively treated cases are presented. This protocol holds potential promise for work with the elderly, stroke and head injury patients, primary nocturnal enuresis, and in peak performance training where balance is important. Further con- trolled research is warranted. (Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-HAWORTH. E-mail address: Website:
An Expansin Gene Expressed in Ripening Strawberry Fruit

Tissue softening accompanies the ripening of many fruit and initiates the processes of irreversible deterioration. Expansins are plant cell wall proteins proposed to disrupt hydrogen bonds within the cell wall polymer matrix. Expression of specific expansin genes has been observed in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) meristems, expanding tissues, and ripening fruit. It has been proposed that a tomato ripening-regulated expansin might contribute to cell wall polymer disassembly and fruit softening by increasing the accessibility of specific cell wall polymers to hydrolase action. To assess whether ripening-regulated expansins are present in all ripening fruit, we examined expansin gene expression in strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.). Strawberry differs significantly from tomato in that the fruit is derived from receptacle rather than ovary tissue and strawberry is non-climacteric. A full-length cDNA encoding a ripening-regulated expansin, FaExp2, was isolated from strawberry fruit. The deduced amino acid sequence of FaExp2 is most closely related to an expansin expressed in early tomato development and to expansins expressed in apricot fruit rather than the previously identified tomato ripening-regulated expansin, LeExp1. Nearly all previously identified ripening-regulated genes in strawberry are negatively regulated by auxin. Surprisingly, FaExp2 expression was largely unaffected by auxin. Overall, our results suggest that expansins are a common component of ripening and that non-climacteric signals other than auxin may coordinate the onset of ripening in strawberry.
BEHAVIORAL AND PSYCHOSOCIAL INTERVENTIONS FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

GERONTOLOGIC RESEARCH in the past 40 years has shown that caring for an older, disabled person affects the health and well-being of the caregiver. This important contribution led to a wide range of programs and services designed to buffer caregivers from the effects of stressors. Many of these programs have been quite innovative. Although empirically validated treatments have lagged behind clinical innovation, a growing number of wellconducted studies are providing a solid foundation that guides practice. Several excellent meta-analyses—with excellent summary tables—of this body of work have been published (Gallagher-Thompson & Coon, 2007; Knight et al., 1993; Pinquart & Sorensen, 2006; Zarit & Zarit, 2007). These reviews concluded that although there are many promising approaches, their benefits for caregivers are sometimes modest, and some interventions appear to have little or no effect. Building on the findings of those meta
PATJ regulates directional migration of mammalian epithelial cells

Directional migration is important in wound healing by epithelial cells. Recent studies have shown that polarity proteins such as mammalian Partitioning-defective 6 (Par6), atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) and mammalian Discs large 1 (Dlg1) are crucial not only for epithelial apico-basal polarity, but also for directional movement. Here, we show that the protein associated with Lin seven 1 (PALS1)-associated tight junction protein (PATJ), another evolutionarily conserved polarity protein, is also required for directional migration by using a wound-induced migration assay. In addition, we found that aPKC and Par3 localize to the leading edge during migration of epithelia and that PATJ regulates their localization. Furthermore, our results show that microtubule-organizing centre orientation is disrupted in PATJ RNA interference (RNAi) MDCKII (Madin–Darby canine kidney II) cells during migration. Together, our data indicate that PATJ controls directional migration by regulating the localization of aPKC and Par3 to the leading edge. The migration defect in PATJ RNAi cells seems to be due to the disorganization of the microtubule network induced by mislocalization of polarity proteins.
Root-knot Nematode Resistance, Yield, and Fruit Quality of Specialty Melons Grafted onto Cucumis metulifer

Interest in specialty melons (Cucumis melo) with distinctive fruit characteristics has grown in the United States in recent years. However, disease management remains a major challenge in specialty melon production. In this study, grafting experiments were conducted to determine the effectiveness of using Cucumis metulifer, a species known for its genetic resistance to root-knot nematodes (RKNs; Meloidogyne spp.), as a potential rootstock for managing RKNs in susceptible specialty melon cultivars. In the greenhouse experiment, honeydew melon 'Honey Yellow' was grafted onto C. metulifer and inoculated with M. incognita race 1. The grafted plants exhibited significantly lower gall and egg mass indices and fewer eggs compared with non- and self-grafted 'Honey Yellow'. Cucumis metulifer was further tested as a rootstock in conventional and organic field trials using honeydew melon 'Honey Yellow' and galia melon 'Arava' as scions. 'Honey Yellow' and 'Arava' grafted onto C. metulifer exhibited significantly lower galling and reduced RKN population densities in the organic field; however, total and marketable fruit yields were not significantly different from non- and self-grafted plants. Although the improvement of RKN resistance did not translate into yield enhancements, incorporating grafted specialty melons with C. metulifer rootstock into double-cropping systems with RKN-susceptible vegetables may benefit the overall crop production by reducing RKN population densities in the soil. At the conventional field site, which was not infested with RKNs, 'Honey Yellow' grafted onto C. metulifer rootstock had a significantly lower total fruit yield than non-grafted 'Honey Yellow' plants; however, fruit yields were similar for 'Arava' grafted onto C. metulifer rootstock and non-grafted 'Arava' plants. Although no significant impacts on the fruit quality attributes of 'Honey Yellow' were observed, grafting onto C. metulifer decreased the flesh firmness of 'Arava' in both field trials and resulted in a reduction in total soluble solids content under conventional production. In summary, grafting RKN-susceptible melons onto C. metulifer rootstock offers promise for growing these specialty melons; however, more studies are needed to elucidate the scion-rootstock interaction effect on fruit yield and quality.