cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cosmological perturbations in generalized gravity theories: Solutions.

We have derived second-order differential equations for cosmological perturbations, using gauge-invariant variables in a Friedmann-Lema\^{\i}tre-Robertson-Walker background, for each of the following gravity theories: $f(R)$ gravity, generalized scalar-tensor gravity, gravity with nonminimally coupled scalar field, and induced gravity. Assuming a spatially flat background, each equation is put into a form suggested by Mukhanov, and asymptotic solutions are derived for the large- and small-scale limits. We also present conservation quantities which remain constant in the large-scale limit.
A cascaded IIR-FIR adaptive ANC system with output power constraints

This paper develops a new power-constrained adaptive filter architecture and algorithm intended for use in active noise control systems where the noise source consists of a narrowband (periodic) component and an uncorrelated wideband component (e.g., background noise). In addition to using a transducer to generate an anti-noise output to destructively cancel the noise source, we impose the additional requirement of limiting the maximum output power level to prevent system overdrive. This is accomplished by separating the narrowband and wideband input components, and then using a penalty function formulation to place output power constraints on the narrowband portion. The new filter architecture offers improved performance compared to previous methods, including explicit output power control and frequency-selective power limiting.
Thermally Actuated Omnidirectional Walking Microrobot

We describe a walking microrobot that is propelled by cilialike thermal bimorph actuator arrays. The robot consists of two actuator array chips, each having an 8 × 8 array of “motion pixels,” which are composed of four orthogonally oriented cilia. Each group of unidirectional cilia is controlled independently for each chip, which provides planar motion with three degrees of freedom (x, y, θ). The robot is approximately 3 cm in length, 1 cm in width, and 0.9 mm in height and has a mass of 0.5 g. By varying the actuation frequency and motion gait strategy, the direction and velocity of the motion can be controlled. In this paper, we present the system architecture, control mechanism, and modeling of the robot, as well as experimental results, during linear and rotary motion. The robot can carry loads up to seven times its own mass, and it can operate at speeds up to 250 μm/s with step sizes from 1 to 4 μm.
Creating a Game Development Course with Limited Resources: An Evaluation Study

This article provides an overview of the challenges in implementing a game development course with limited resources in computing curricula. An approach to a holistic game development course is outlined in terms of its organization, software, and instructional methods. The course had 23 students enrolled in its first offering and was systematically evaluated in light of the approach using multiple sources of data. Descriptive statistics and measures of internal consistency reliability are provided. Three important findings resulted from this research: 1) a game development course can be implemented with limited institutional monetary support for a reasonable cost per student, 2) cooperation and competition can be effectively integrated into a game development course as instructional strategies, and 3) integrated lecture and computer lab sessions with cooperative learning is an effective instructional method for a game development course. Finally, insights and lessons learned are provided to assist educators in creating their own game development courses.
Effect of ACTH on whole blood coagulability.

SummaryA reproducible sensitive test, which minimizes contamination with thromboplastically active tissue juices is outlined for determination of the whole blood coagulation time. No significant alteration of the coagulation time was found with the administration of ACTH to human subjects or in patients with hypo- or hyper—adrenocorticism when this method was used.
Über die Verwendung von Elektronenröhren und ungedämpften Hochfrequenzschwingungen in der quantitativen Spektralanalyse

1. Eine Beschreibung einer Versuchsanordnung fur die Erzeugung von Funken fur die Spektralanalyse mittels ungedampfter Hochfrequenzschwingungen wird gegeben; sie stellt eine Art von Resonanz-transformator dar, gespeist durch eine Elektronenrohre, bietet die Moglichkeit, hochfrequente Strome von einer Spannung zu erzeugen, die mehrfach groser ist als die normalen Spannungen in den Schwingungskreisen der Rohre selbst. Die verwendete Apparatur ergibt bei einer Frequenz von 1,5 · 106 bis 7,5·106 (λ = 200—40 m) eind Spannung von 80–100 kV.
Hexosamine interference with the determination of protein by the Lowry procedure.

Abstract 1. 1. d -glucosamine and d -galactosamine and their corresponding N-acetyl derivatives interfere in the determination of protein by the Lowry assay. 2. 2. At the level of 0.5 mg/ml of free hexosamine, d -glucosamine gave an apparent protein level of 0.055 mg/ml and d -galactosamine, 0.070 mg/ml. At 2.0 mg/ml hexosamine, the respective values were 0.128 mg/ml and 0.220 mg/ml. 3. 3. The N-acetyl derivatives yielded approximately one-fifth of these values. 4. 4. Chondroitin 6-sulfate does not interfere with the Lowry protein assay.
Mechanisms of proximal tubule sodium transport regulation that link extracellular fluid volume and blood pressure

One-hundred years ago, Starling articulated the interdependence of renal control of circulating blood volume and effective cardiac performance. During the past 25 years, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the interdependence of blood pressure (BP), extracellular fluid volume (ECFV), the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), and sympathetic nervous system (SNS) have begun to be revealed. These variables all converge on regulation of renal proximal tubule (PT) sodium transport. The PT reabsorbs two-thirds of the filtered Na+ and volume at baseline. This fraction is decreased when BP or perfusion pressure is increased, during a high-salt diet (elevated ECFV), and during inhibition of the production of ANG II; conversely, this fraction is increased by ANG II, SNS activation, and a low-salt diet. These variables all regulate the distribution of the Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 3 (NHE3) and the Na+-phosphate cotransporter (NaPi2), along the apical microvilli of the PT. Natriuretic stimuli provoke the dynamic redistribution of these transporters along with associated regulators, molecular motors, and cytoskeleton-associated proteins to the base of the microvilli. The lipid raft-associated NHE3 remains at the base, and the nonraft-associated NaPi2 is endocytosed, culminating in decreased Na+ transport and increased PT flow rate. Antinatriuretic stimuli return the same transporters and regulators to the body of the microvilli associated with an increase in transport activity and decrease in PT flow rate. In summary, ECFV and BP homeostasis are, at least in part, maintained by continuous and acute redistribution of transporter complexes up and down the PT microvilli, which affect regulation of PT sodium reabsorption in response to fluctuations in ECFV, BP, SNS, and RAS.
Thermal transport of the single-crystal rare-earth nickel borocarbides RNi2B2C

The quaternary intermetallic rare-earth nickel borocarbides $R{\mathrm{Ni}}_{2}{\mathrm{B}}_{2}\mathrm{C}$ are a family of compounds that show magnetic behavior, superconducting behavior, and/or both. Thermal transport measurements reveal both electron and phonon scattering mechanisms, and can provide information on the interplay of these two long-range phenomena. In general the thermal conductivity $\ensuremath{\kappa}$ is dominated by electrons, and the high temperature thermal conductivity is approximately linear in temperature and anomalous. For $R=\mathrm{Tm},$ Ho, and Dy the low-temperature thermal conductivity exhibits a marked loss of scattering at the antiferromagnetic ordering temperature ${T}_{N}.$ Magnon heat conduction is suggested for $R=\mathrm{Tm}.$ The $\ensuremath{\kappa}$ data for $R=\mathrm{Ho}$ lends evidence for gapless superconductivity in this material above ${T}_{N}.$ Unlike the case for the non-magnetic superconductors in the family, $R=\mathrm{Y}$ and Lu, a phonon peak in the thermal conductivity below ${T}_{c}$ is not observed down to $T=1.4\mathrm{K}$ for the magnetic superconductors. Single-crystal quality seems to have a strong effect on $\ensuremath{\kappa}.$ The electron-phonon interaction appears to weaken as one progresses from $R=\mathrm{Lu}$ to $R=\mathrm{Gd}.$ The resistivity data shows the loss of scattering at ${T}_{N}$ for $R=\mathrm{Dy},$ Tb, and Gd; and the thermoelectric power for all three of these materials exhibits an enhancement below ${T}_{N}.$
Multistability in the lactose utilization network of Escherichia coli

Multistability, the capacity to achieve multiple internal states in response to a single set of external inputs, is the defining characteristic of a switch. Biological switches are essential for the determination of cell fate in multicellular organisms1, the regulation of cell-cycle oscillations during mitosis2,3 and the maintenance of epigenetic traits in microbes4. The multistability of several natural1,2,3,4,5,6 and synthetic7,8,9 systems has been attributed to positive feedback loops in their regulatory networks10. However, feedback alone does not guarantee multistability. The phase diagram of a multistable system, a concise description of internal states as key parameters are varied, reveals the conditions required to produce a functional switch11,12. Here we present the phase diagram of the bistable lactose utilization network of Escherichia coli13. We use this phase diagram, coupled with a mathematical model of the network, to quantitatively investigate processes such as sugar uptake and transcriptional regulation in vivo. We then show how the hysteretic response of the wild-type system can be converted to an ultrasensitive graded response14,15. The phase diagram thus serves as a sensitive probe of molecular interactions and as a powerful tool for rational network design.
Cellular Binding of Charged Nanoparticle-Protein Complexes

Nanoparticles used for biomedical applications are exposed to a complex mixture of extracellular serum proteins that non-specifically adsorb to the nanoparticle surface. The resulting “protein corona” dominates interactions of the nanoparticle with the cellular environment. As nanoparticle binding to the cell surface is the first step in the course of most biomedical applications, we have focused on the role of the initial nanoparticle surface charge in the cellular binding of nanoparticles. Cationic, amine-modified and anionic, carboxylate-modified polystyrene nanoparticles were studied as a model system. Although both cationic and anionic nanoparticles form a protein corona, cellular binding follows opposite trends as determined from fluorescence microscopy experiments. The cellular binding of cationic nanoparticles is enhanced in the presence of serum proteins, while anionic nanoparticle binding is inhibited by the presence of serum proteins. Competition assays performed with flow cytometry enabled us to identify the cellular receptors used by the nanoparticle-protein complexes. We have determined that complexes formed with anionic nanoparticles bind to native protein receptors, while those formed with cationic nanoparticles bind to scavenger receptors. Similar trends were observed for anionic nanoparticles with biomedical applications including quantum dots, Au nanospheres, and low-density lipoprotein. To probe the underlying cause for the charge-dependent differences in cellular binding, we are currently characterizing the structure of the adsorbed proteins using circular dichroism, fluorescence spectroscopy, and isothermal titration calorimetry. Preliminary results suggest that protein structure is lost upon binding to cationic nanoparticles, and protein structure is retained on anionic nanoparticle surfaces. Our results indicate that, in the presence of blood serum proteins, initial nanoparticle surface charge mediates nanoparticle-cell interactions.
MULTIFACE: multimodal content adaptations for heterogeneous devices

We are interested in applying and extending existing frameworks for combining output modalities for adaptations of multimodal content on heterogeneous devices based on user and device models. In this paper, we present Multiface, a multimodal dialog system that allows users to interact using different devices such as desktop computers, PDAs, and mobile phones. The presented content and its modality will be customized to individual users and the device they are using.
Conversion of emodin to physcion by a cell-free preparation of Aspergillus parasiticus

Abstract Cultures of Aspergillus parasiticus contained 1.2 mg/litre of physcion. A cell-free extract of a 3-day-old culture of A. parasiticus catalysed the conversion of [ 3 H]emodin and S -adenosyl- L -[Me- 14 C]methionine to 3 H- and 14 C-labelled physcion. Methylation of emodinanthrone was 9% of the methylation of emodin. Methylation of norsolorinic acid or versicolorin A, compounds associated with aflatoxin biosynthesis, was not detected.
Vibrational kinetics of SF6 dissolved in simple cryogenic liquids

Abstract Both linear and infrared—infrared double resonance measurements of the ν 3 absorption band of SF 6 dissolved in liquid O 2 and Ar are reported. Saturation measurements of the infrared absorption give a V—T relaxation time of 27 ± 7 ps in liquid O 2 and 160 ± 40 ps in liquid Ar. The unique features of the spectroscopy of complex molecules in simple liquid hosts offer potential advantages for laser photochemistry.
Model Selection Techniques and Merging Rules for Range Data Segmentation Algorithms

The problem of model selection is relevant to many areas of computer vision. Model selection criteria have been used in the vision literature and many more have been proposed in statistics, but the relative strengths of these criteria have not been analyzed in vision. More importantly, suitable extensions to these criteria must be made to solve the problems unique to computer vision. Using the problem of surface reconstruction as our context, we analyze existing criteria using simulations and sensor data, introduce new criteria from statistics, develop novel criteria capable of handling unknown error distributions and outliers, and extend model selection criteria to apply to the surface merging problem. The new and existing model selection criteria and merging rules are tested (over a wide range of experimental conditions using both synthetic and sensor data. The new surface merging rules improve upon previous results and work well, even at small step heights (h=2?) and at crease discontinuities. Our results show that a Bayesian criterion and its bootstrapped variant perform the best, although for time-sensitive applications, a variant of the Akaike criterion may be a better choice. Unfortunately, none of the criteria work reliably for small region sizes, implying that model selection and surface merging should be avoided unless the region size is sufficiently large.
Intrathecal 6-hydroxydopamine or cervical spinal hemisection reduces norepinephrine content, but not the density ofα2-adrenoceptors, in the cat lumbar spinal enlargement

Abstract The effect of the intrathecal administration of the catecholaminergic neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine, or of hemisection of the spinal cord at the Cl level, on the density of α 2 -adrenoceptors and on the norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin content in the cat lumbar spinal enlargement was determined 2, 7 or 21 days after performance of each type of lesion. The intrathecal administration of 6-hydroxydopamine produced a time-dependent reduction of norepinephrine content in the cat lumbar spinal enlargement (95% reduction at 21 days) without significantly altering the serotonin content in this same tissue of the same cats. The dopamine content of the dorsal horn was not changed significantly, whereas ventral horn dopamine content was depleted after intrathecal 6-hydroxydopamine. α 2 -Adrenoceptor binding site density was not significantly different from control either 2 or 21 days after 6-hydroxydopamine, but was increased significantly (50%) over the control density 7 days after 6-hydroxydopamine. Hemisection of the cervical spinal cord produced a bilateral 40–60% reduction of norepinephrine content in both the dorsal and ventral horns of the cat lumbar spinal enlargement 7 and 21 days later. Cervical hemisection did not significantly alter the α 2 -adrenoceptor binding site density in these same cats either 2, 7, or 21 days after performance of the lesion. It is concluded that α 2 -adrenoceptors located on the terminals of descending noradrenergic or other spinopetal fibers do not represent a significant fraction of the total population of α 2 -adrenoceptors present in the dorsal or ventral cat lumbar enlargement.
Estimating lower confidence limits on system reliability using a Monte-Carlo technique on binomial data

Abstract It is known that the use of a Bayes method for computing lower confidence limits for system reliability leads to conservative limits when using a uniform prior distribution. A method of using the component data to modify the beta prior distribution is proposed. It is seen that such a method leads to an improvement in the lower confidence limit, that is, its conservatism is decreased.
Preliminary Design of NCSX Central Computing and Control

The National Compact Stellarator Experiment (NCSX) is the centerpiece of the U.S. effort to develop the physics understanding of the compact stellarator and evaluate its potential for future fusion energy systems. A core component of the NCSX project is central computing and control, which is comprised of seven elements: 1) Networking and fiber optic infrastructure, 2) Central instrumentation and controls, 3) Diagnostic data acquisition and facility computing, 4) Facility timing and synchronization, 5) Realtime plasma and power supply control, 6) central safety and interlock system, and 7) Control room facility. NCSX central computing will build upon the success of the central computing model of the National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX). Like NSTX, a key design principle for the NCSX computing system is to use commodity computing hardware, and open-source and collaborative software wherever practical. Three major software codes of this type will be used: EPICS, MDSplus, and the integrated plasma control software from General Atomics. This paper will present an overview of the primary elements of the Central Computing and Controls, illustrate the use of open-source and collaborative software, and describe the new technologies that will advance the computing and control capabilities for NCSX.
PIV for granular flows

Particle image velocimetry (PIV) has been adapted for use in measuring particle displacement and velocity fields in granular flows. “Seeding” is achieved by using light and dark particles. The granular flow adjacent to a clear bounding wall is illuminated with a strobe, and the recorded images are analyzed using standard PIV techniques. The application is demonstrated by measuring convection rolls in a granular bed undergoing vertical oscillations. The PIV measured displacement is consistent with displacement of a marked layer of particles.
An improved Lindemann melting rule

Abstract The Lindemann melting rule associates the value of the melting point with that of the temperature-dependent thermal vibration amplitude at the melting point. We test the rule over a wide range of metallic elements. It works fairly well over the entire periodic system, from Li to Pu, provided that the temperature dependence of the elastic properties and the variation in the critical vibrational amplitude with mass are taken into account. The accuracy of various modifications of the Lindemann rule is evaluated. We propose a new physical interpretation of the Lindemann rule, based on the phonon mean free path.
Expanding the domain of systems analysis

Systems often contain a human component. The human reacts, interprets, errs, ..., succeeds or fails. However, usual analyses of such systems omit the human component, concentrating instead on the, more easily analyzed, software and hardware subsystems. A technique has been developed for including human decision processes by the use of an expert system in a systems analysis. This technique is applied to a surveillance system consisting of sensors which respond to stimuli and the interpretation of these responses by humans. The analysis is carried out via simulations of hardware responses to stimuli, simulations of human inter pretations of those hardware responses, and a measure of the performance of the total system. While the technique was ap plied to a particular system, the inclusion of simulations of human decision processes is essentially independent of the application.
Preparation and properties of bovine heart cytochrome c oxidase with high solubility in detergent free media

Abstract Cytochrome c oxidase is isolated from bovine heart by a procedure that involves differential precipitation, fractionation with ammonium sulfate in 0.5% cholate, and removal of residual cholate by molecular sieve chromatography. The oxidase is highly active and is unusually soluble in phosphate buffer without added detergent; solutions with several millimolar concentrations, yet low viscosities, are readily prepared. The preparation contains ca. 20% lipid with a Cu to Fe ratio of 1:1. Intensities of visible and Soret bands in oxidized and reduced states are ca. 25% lower than in the presence of detergent (0.75% Tween 20). Oxidized cytochrome c inhibits and binds more tightly than does the reduced species (KI, 18 μM; KM, 25 μM) as noted in mitochondria.
Review: A Male President for Mt. Holyoke College: The Failed Fight to Maintain Female Leadership, 1934-1937 by Ann Karus Meeropol

Review of A Male President for Mt. Holyoke College: The Failed Fight to Maintain Female Leadership, 1934-1937 by Ann Karus Meeropol.
Effects of self-steered turn size and turn bias upon simulated chemoklinotactic behavior

Self-steered turns play a critical role in klinotactic chemo-orientation. The effects of self-steered turn size and bias (handedness) were investigated, using computer simulations of source location in a linear chemical gradient emanating from a point source. In simulations where the model organisms are biased (right turns only) turn angles between 70 and 150 degrees confer greatest efficiency to klinotactic behavior, as evidenced by the shortest routes to the source. Changes in average turn size also affect patterns of orientation movements. Four turning behaviors associated with self-steered turns of different sizes are observed—single turns, zig-zags, loops, and circling movements. Relatively small loops represent a most effective klinotactic strategy. In unbiased simulations the range of optimal turn angles narrows (90–160 degrees) and unbiased maneuvers on the whole result in longer routes to the source. Both of these effects are the result of a short-circuiting of normal looping behavior. The results compare favorably with the turning behavior of real organisms, emphasizing the importance of self-steered turn size and bias as parameters of chemoorientation.
Social partner preferences of male and female fighting fish (Betta splendens)

While the social interactions of Betta splendens have been studied in the contexts of dominance hierarchies, mate choice and communication networks, the social partner preferences of Betta have been largely overlooked. In this study, we presented male and female Betta with a single male, a single female, and a group of three females in dichotomous choice tests in order to better understand basic social interactions in this largely nonsocial species. The highly territorial Betta preferred associating with conspecifics in nearly every configuration we tested, with exceptions noted when single females were given the choice between a lone male and an empty chamber, and when males were presented with a single female and an empty chamber. Also, in most tests, the fish chose to spend more time with the larger group of females. The motivation for this preference certainly varied from reproductive to anti-predator. While such behavior might not suggest true shoaling behavior, it does demonstrate a subtle degree of sociality.
Using XML for simulation modeling

XML represents a new way of organizing information and knowledge of the World Wide Web, using markup languages. Whereas HTML is used for presentation-specific content, XML builds upon its SGML lineage to separate content from presentation, and provide a semantic labeling for elements that comprise a document. With XML, the concept of "document" is broadened to include an encapsulation of information and knowledge, and not only a flat medium. This suggests that XML can be used for model specification and computer simulation. With this in mind, we have used XML to create two modeling specification languages: MXL and DXL. We begin by overviewing XML, discussing MXL and DXL, and then showing an example of how the languages are employed in the modeling process, and can be used with a variety of presentations.
Disruptive Burning of Aluminum/arbon Slurry Droplets

Abstract Abstract–The disruptive combustion of probe-supported and free-falling Al/C/JP-lO slurry droplets (200 to 1OOO, μm in diameter) was investigated experimentally. The disruption processes and disruption times were analyzed using backlit or natural-light film records taken with a high-speed motion picture camera. Parametric studies were conducted to investigate the influence of the relative proportions of aluminum and carbon in the solids and of surfactant and stabilizing additive levels; and disruption times were quantified with respect to droplet diameter, total solids loading. ambient gas temperature, and oxygen mole fraction. Slurry composition parameters were found to affect the type and strength of the observed disruptive phenomena presumably by altering the porosity and plasticity of the surface shells of solids formed during the early stages of gasification.
On the feasibility of synthesizing CAD software from specifications: generating maze router tools in ELF

The application of program synthesis techniques to the generation of technology-sensitive VLSI physical design tools is described. The architecture and implementation of a particular software generator (called ELF) targeted at the generation of maze routing software is described. ELF strives to meet the demands of the target technology by automatically generating maze router implementations to match the application requirements. ELF has three key features. First, a very high level language, lacking data structure implementation specifications, is used to describe algorithm design styles. Second, application-specific expertise about routing and application independent code synthesis techniques are used to guide search among alternative design styles for algorithms and data structures. Third, code generation is used to transform the resulting abstract descriptions of selected algorithms and data structures into final, executable code. Code generation is an incremental, stepwise refinement process. Experimental results are presented covering several correct. fully functional routers synthesized by ELF from varying high-level specifications. Results from synthetic and industrial benchmarks are examined to illustrate ELF's capabilities. >
A comparison between survival from cancer before and after a physical traumatic injury: physical trauma before cancer is associated with decreased survival

Prior traumatic experiences have been associated with poorer coping strategies, greater distress, and more posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms following a subsequent cancer diagnosis affecting their survival. However, the impact of prior physical traumatic injury on cancer survival has not been examined. The present study matched patients from the same Level 1 Trauma center who appeared in both the trauma and cancer registries. A total of 498 patients met the criteria between 1998 and 2014 who have experienced both a diagnosis of cancer and a physical traumatic injury. The survival between the patients who had physical trauma before cancer (TBC) versus those that had physical trauma after the cancer diagnosis (TAC) were compared. The TBC group had a higher percentage of males (48 % vs 33 % p = 0.001) and motor vehicle collisions (18 % vs 7 %, p < 0.001), than the TAC group. TBC patients were also significantly younger than TAC patients at the time of the physical traumatic event (68.7 ± 14.6 vs 76.2 ± 12.0 years, p < 0.001), and longer length of time between the cancer diagnosis and physical traumatic injury (2.9 ± 2.9 vs 1.7 ± 2.6 years, p < 0.001). The overall probability of survival for the entire sample was 68 %. Percent survival for the TBC (n = 251) and TAC (n = 247) groups was 56 and 80 % respectively (p < 0.001). Results were consistent regardless of stage of cancer at diagnosis (hazard ratio (HR (Standard Error)). After adjusting for comorbidities Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) (HR = 1.2 (0.06), p = 0.009)), cancer stage (HR = 2.8 (0.12), p < 0.001)), lung cancer (HR = 1.7 (0.25), p < 0.001) and bladder cancer (HR = 3.5 (0.55), p = 0.02), experiencing a prior physical traumatic injury was associated with an increased HR for mortality of 4.6 (0.93), p < 0.001). A physical traumatic episode before cancer diagnosis (TBC) increased the risk of death 4.6 fold compared to the TAC group even after adjusting for CCI, stage of cancer at diagnosis, lung cancer, and bladder cancer. These findings suggest considering a history of physical traumatic injury in cancer patients as a possible risk factor for faster cancer progression and mortality.
Longevity, fecundity, and progeny sex ratio of Pteromalus cerealellae in relation to diet, host provision, and mating

We investigated the effects of diet (sugar feeding), host provision, and mating on the longevity, fecundity, and progeny sex ratio of Pteromalus cerealellae (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), an ectoparasitoid of several stored-product insects. Sugar feeding (25% sucrose solution) increased male lifespan by a factor of 3–4 relative to sugar-starved (provided water only) or completely starved (provided no water and no sugar solution) males, irrespective of mating status or host provision. Sugar feeding also increased longevity of females which were not provided hosts, but had no effect on longevity of females which were provided hosts, suggesting that supplemental sugar feeding is beneficial to females only in the absence of hosts. Females had a significantly greater longevity than males: Mean (± SE) longevity of sugar-fed unmated females provisioned with no hosts (36.3 ± 1.2 days) was significantly greater than mean longevity of sugar-fed unmated males provisioned with no hosts (29.7 ± 0.9 days). A negative effect of mating on longevity was recorded only in the absence of hosts but not when hosts were provided. In general, sugar feeding resulted in a modest increase in progeny production by female P. cerealellae and this was significant for one batch of attacked hosts. However, cumulative lifetime progeny (mean ± SE) of sugar-fed females (64.2 ± 9.2) was not significantly greater than that of sugar-starved (44.5 ± 6.8), or completely starved (54.5 ± 9.3) females. Nevertheless, progeny of sugar-fed females was female-biased (53% females) compared to male-biased progeny recorded for completely-starved females (37% females). These results suggest the potential impact of sugar feeding on survival, fecundity, and sex allocation in P. cerealellae.
Toward synthesizing artificial neural networks that exhibit cooperative intelligent behavior: Some open issues in artificial life

The tasks that animals perform require a high degree of intelligence. Animals forage for food, migrate, navigate, court mates, rear offspring, defend against predators, construct nests, and so on. ...
Proteome Analysis of Human Hair Shaft From Protein Identification to Posttranslational Modification

The human hair proteome was investigated using two-dimensional LC-MS/MS. Among the 343 identified proteins, 70 were detected in high relative abundance, including keratin intermediate filament proteins, largely extractable with denaturants. Over 300 proteins were found to constitute the insoluble complex formed by transglutaminase cross-linking. The intracellular distribution of identified proteins is wide from cytoplasm to nucleus, mitochondria, ribosome, and plasma membrane. These results help rationalize ultrastructural features visible in the mature hair. Keratins and several substrates for transglutaminase were found to be posttranslationally modified by methylation and dimethylation. Evidence for ubiquitination of hair proteins was also obtained.
Horner's syndrome and bilateral esophageal duplications

Bilateral esophageal duplications are exceptionally rare. A 3-month-old male presented with a left-sided Horner's syndrome. Upon further investigation, bilateral upper thoracic masses with an air-fluid level within the right-sided mass were found. Sequential thoracotomies at 1-week intervals confirmed the presence of bilateral esophageal duplications. At 1 year of age the patient is growing normally and is asymptomatic except for a persistent Horner's syndrome. We believe this to be the first case of bilateral esophageal duplication cysts presenting with Horner's syndrome.
Production of High Quality Crude Oil From Northern Great Plains Province Coal

A previous paper described a plant for producing high quality crude and low cost power from W. coal. Continuing research and development, and detailed review of all available data, make it possible to conceive a plant with a better product mix and one that is appropriate for the Montana area. The primary product to be produced in this plant is crude, but some local refining would be expected to meet the needs of the Inter-Mountain West. Naturally, any actual plant would be studied by corporate management to determine plant size, location, products, and the like. The plant projected is expected to require 16,500,000 tons of coal per yr, based on a daily consumption of 50,000 tons. Primary product from this plant would be 100,000 bpd of crude, 20,000 bpd of gasoline-oil mix, 100 million cu ft of pipeline gas, and 40 million kw-hr of power. The water demand for this plant is expected to be relatively small-- about 35,000 acre-ft/yr.
Keynote: Virtual Clusters for Grid, Cloud, and High-performance Computing

In this talk, the impact of cloud computing and emerging Internet applications will be accessed. A virtual-machine approach to cluster partitioning and mechanisms for replicated data protection will be presented. These techniques enable dynamic cloud resource provisioning and secure data management in web-scale distributed computing and business applications. The talk covers the impact of virtualization on grid, cloud, and high-performance computing platforms. He will discuss research frontiers in building virtualized grid/cloud infrastructures and assessing some grid/cloud projects at USA, France, Japan, and China, that explore distributed server clusters and globally deployed data-centers.
A microbial biofuel cell with an air-breathing cathode for in vivo glucose sensing applications

A hybrid biofuel cell employing baker's yeast and an abiotic cathode was designed and experimented. Using a customized membrane electrode assembly and simple fabrication techniques, the prototype device was capable of detecting various glucose concentrations in human blood plasma, showing strong potential for patch type sensor development.
Efficacy of Colony-Stimulating Factors in Acute Leukemia

OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the literature describing the safety and efficacy of the hematopoietic colony—stimulating factors (CSFs) for the management of treatment-related adverse effects in patients with acute leukemia.DATA SOURCES:A systematic MEDLINE search of the English-language literature (1995–April 2000) was performed to identify all randomized trials evaluating CSF use in acute leukemia. The following search terms were used: granulocyte colony—stimulating factor, filgrastim, granulocyte-macrophage colony—stimulating factor, sargramostim, acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), acute nonlymphocytic leukemia, and acute myeloid leukemia. The references from relevant literature were also examined in order to identify reports not discovered in the MEDLINE search.DATA SYNTHESIS:Six randomized trials in pediatric ALL, nine in adult AML, and four in adult ALL have examined the safety and efficacy of the CSFs. Tw o of the pediatric trials supported a reduction in either the durati...
Reconstruction of 2D signals from unions of shifted lattices

We consider sampling theory for nonuniform sampling sets of minimal density which are structured. An efficient method for the reconstruction of band-limited discrete signals from sampling sets which are unions of shifted lattices is developed. These sets are not necessarily periodic. A signal can be reconstructed from its samples provided the sampling set and the spectrum of the signal satisfy certain compatibility conditions. While explicit reconstruction formulas for unions of sampling lattices are possible, it is more convenient to use a recursive algorithm. A numerical example implemented in MATLAB is given.
Selective Ablation of Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Exacerbates Experimental Colitis: Contrasting Role of Gelatinases in the Pathogenesis of Colitis

The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), MMP-2 and MMP-9, share structural and substrate similarities and are up-regulated during human as well as animal models of inflammatory bowel disease. We recently demonstrated that epithelial-derived MMP-9 is an important mediator of inflammation and tissue damage in colitis. In this study, we examined the role of MMP-2 in acute colitis. Colitis was induced using two models, administration of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) and Salmonella enterica subsp. serovar Typhimurium (S.T.). Bone marrow chimeras were performed using bone marrow cells from wild-type (WT) and MMP-2−/− mice. Colitis was evaluated by clinical symptoms, myeloperoxidase assay, and histology. MMP-2 protein expression and activity were up-regulated in WT mice treated with DSS or S.T. MMP-2−/− mice were highly susceptible to the development of colitis induced by DSS (or S.T.) compared with WT. During inflammation, MMP-2 expression was increased in epithelial cells as well as in the infiltrating immune cells. Bone marrow chimera demonstrated that mucosa-derived MMP-2 was required for its protective effects toward colitis. Furthermore, we demonstrate that severe colitis in MMP-2−/− is not due to a compensatory increase in MMP-9. Finally, we show that MMP-2 regulates epithelial barrier function. In contrast to MMP-9, mucosa-derived MMP-2 may be a critical host factor that is involved in the prevention or cessation of the host response to luminal pathogens or toxins, an important aspect of healing and tissue resolution. Together, our data suggest that a critical balance between the two gelatinases determines the outcome of inflammatory response during acute colitis.
Salmonella “Sops” Up a Preferred Electron Receptor in the Inflamed Intestine

ABSTRACT The microbiota of the mammalian intestinal tract represents a formidable barrier to colonization by pathogens. To overcome this resistance to colonization, bacterial pathogens use virulence factors to induce intestinal inflammation, which liberates nutrients for selective use by the infecting microbe. Studies of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium ( S . Typhimurium) infection in a streptomycin-treated mouse colitis model show how virulence factor-induced inflammation can produce nutrients used selectively by the pathogen. Type III secreted effectors of invading S . Typhimurium induce inflammation in the intestine (epithelial cells and lamina propria macrophages) that causes changes in the composition of the lumen. For example, neutrophils entering the intestine produce superoxide, resulting in production of tetrathionate, which S . Typhimurium in the lumen uses as an electron acceptor for anaerobic respiration. In their recent study, Lopez et al. demonstrate that S . Typhimurium strains that are lysogenized with a phage encoding type III effector SopE induce the host to produce nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS) in the intestine (C. A. Lopez et al., mBio 3:e00143-12, 2012). Nitric oxide is converted to a highly favorable electron acceptor, nitrate. As a result, growth of sopE + S . Typhimurium in the intestine lumen is boosted by nitrate respiration. This is a striking example of how acquisition of a virulence factor by horizontal gene transfer can increase the metabolic fitness of a pathogen. Interestingly, survival of the invading bacteria is probably decreased as a result of the SopE-induced immune response, and yet the S . Typhimurium bacteria that multiply in the lumen of the intestine can efficiently disseminate to another host, ensuring success for the pathogen.
Globally optimal rational approximation using homotopy continuation methods

Homotopy continuation methods are applied to the nonlinear problem of approximating a higher-order system by a lower-order rational model, such that the mean-square modeling error is minimized. A homotopy function is constructed which creates distinct paths from each of the known solutions of a simple problem to each of the solutions of the desired nonlinear problem. This homotopy function guarantees that the globally optimum rational approximation solution may be determined by finding all the solutions. A simple numerical continuation algorithm is described for following the paths to the optimum solution. A numerical example is included which demonstrates that the globally optimum model will be obtained by applying this homotopy continuation method. >
A Simple Apparatus and Technique for Contact-Angle Measurements on Small-Denier Single Fibers

A simple apparatus and technique are described for measuring contact angles of liquids on small-denier fibers. This technique is based on the level-surface method and can be used to obtain either a...
A Universal Thermal Module™ for Clusterable RTP and MOCVD Applications

A Universal Thermal Module™ (UTM™) has been developed for vacuum-integrated cluster RTP and MOCVD as well as stand-alone atmospheric RTP applications. The UTM™ architecture provides highly modular RTP and MOCVD tool configurations for various single-wafer thermal processes. The UTM™ design comprises a temperature-controlled UHV-grade process chamber as well as an ultraclean gearless wafer rotation assembly for improved temperature uniformity and enhanced built-in reliability. The UTM™ RTP employs bottom/backside wafer heating using a multi-zone axisymmetric illuminator and a reflective multi-zone gas showerhead located above the wafer. Precision RTP control is achieved using a multi-zone controller in conjunction with a multipoint sensor system with real-time multi-zone compensations for wafer emissivity and illuminator light interference effects. The RTP temperature measurement and control techniques fully compensate for any axisymmetric or non-axisymmetric wafer emissivity patterns, eliminating the need for pre-RTP wafer backside conditioning. The UTM™ showerhead provides capabilities for ultraclean multi-zone gas injection and in-situ RF plasma for MOCVD and RTCVD processes. The UTM™ MOCVD module meets the most stringent specifications and tool parameters for various metallization and high-K dielectric deposition applications. This module has been used for deposition of low-resistivity copper films with excellent void-free sub-half-micron gap fill for high-performance multilevel interconnects. The UTM™ RTP and MOCVD modules have been implemented based on design optimizations in a virtual reactor environment.
Sex Differences and Perceived Parental Influence on Student Occupational and Educational Aspirations

Previous research has demonstrated the effect of parental influence and expectations on student occupational and educational aspirations. However, most of these studies were conducted prior to 1970; since that time there have been considerable changes in sex roles, the home, and school institutions. The sample for the present study consisted of the 28,240 seniors in 1980 who participated in the High School and Beyond study. Multiple regression analyses revealed that the effects of perceived influence on their children's post-high school plans followed the traditional same-sex role model, whereas the effects of perceived parental expectations did not. Thus, in predicting the future directions of a child, both in terms of occupation and education, the same-sexed parent has a stronger influence on career plans, whereas the opposite-sexed parent has higher expectations.
Efficacy of sisomicin in patients with cystic fibrosis

Sisomicin was administered to 24 patients with cystic fibrosis who were experiencing acute exacerbation of their pulmonary infections. Five patients were given 3 mg/kg/day i.v. in three divided doses (Group I), five patients were given 5 mg/kg/day i.v. in four divided doses (Group II), and 14 were given 5 mg/kg/day combined with 300–600 mg/kg/day of carbenicillin (Group III). In the latter group, the antibiotic doses were staggered at intervals of 1 to 2 hours. All antibiotics were administered by intravenous drip over 15 to 20 minutes. Bacterial isolates were tested for susceptibility to sisomicin before and after treatment. Serial serum samples and sputum samples were obtained for sisomicin assay. Renal excretion was measured in 24 patients for 8–6 hours following the first intravenous dose. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated according to a scoring system devised by the authors. All other antibiotic agents taken prior to hospitalization were discontinued, but vitamins, pancreatic enzymes, aerosol therapy and physical therapy were maintained. In addition to clinical, radiological and physiological evaluation, white blood count and differential count, the hemoglobin, platelet count, renal, liver, vestibular and auditory function of all patients were tested before and at the end of therapy and again two weeks after therapy. Serum levels achieved with a dose of 1.2 mg/kg/6 h i.v. (5 mg/kg/day) were well above the MIC and MBC of pathogens found in patients treated in this study. The combination of sisomicin and carbenicillin substantially extended the half-life of sisomicin, improved clinical response and resulted in higher and more prolonged sputum levels, but the mean percentage of improvement was not statistically significant compared with the result with sisomicin alone at 5 mg/kg/day. The mean percentage of clinical improvement was 16.7 % for patients in Group I, 41.7 % for patients in Group II, and 51.1 % for patients in Group III. There was no evidence of increased resistance to sisomicin. The drug was well tolerated by all patients, and all laboratory tests were within normal limits.
Toxicity of the Insecticide Fipronil and Its Degradates to Benthic Macroinvertebrates of Urban Streams

Fipronil is a phenylpyrazole insecticide with increasing urban use. Sixteen urban waterways and municipal wastewater were sampled for fipronil, its environmental degradates, and pyrethroid insecticides. Because findings could not be interpreted with existing data on fipronil degradate toxicity, EC50s and LC50s for fipronil and its sulfide and sulfone derivatives were determined for 14 macroinvertebrate species. Four species were more sensitive than any previously studied, indicating fipronil's toxicity to aquatic life has long been underestimated. The most sensitive species tested, Chironomus dilutus, had a mean 96-h EC50 of 32.5 ng/L for fipronil and 7–10 ng/L for its degradates. Hyalella azteca, a common testing species, was among the least sensitive. The typical northern California creek receiving urban stormwater runoff contains fipronil and degradate concentrations twice the EC50 of C. dilutus, and approximately one-third the EC50 for a stonefly, a caddisfly, and two mayfly species. The present study...