cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A performance comparison of DTN protocols for high delay optical channels

Designed for long propagation delay and frequent channel disruptions, delay tolerant networking (DTN) protocols are supporting the latest proposed optical space internetworking communication missions. While previous DTN-based testbeds experimented with bandwidth capacity in megabits, this paper presents a channel emulation testbed that supports multiple gigabit-bandwidth Ethernet clients and servers simultaneously. In addition to capacity, this testbed modeled optical link properties with channel emulation, and provided high flexibility by utilizing virtual LANs and link aggregation connected through a gigabit switch. The testbed emulated propagation delay, asynchronous channel rates, and bit errors, including free-space optical bit errors that varied as a function of time. We emulated an optical flight terminal relaying data between ground stations, and measured the maximum goodput of various DTN configurations while increasing the relay's round trip times. Results showed that for a 200 ms to one second round trip time, BP/TCPCL/TCP transmitted higher goodput than BP/LTP/UDP, and TCP/IP. For round trip times longer than one second, BP/LTP/UDP transmitted higher goodput than BP/TCPCL/TCP, and TCP/IP.
From Memory Arts to the New Code Paradigm: The Artist as Engineer of Virtual Information Space and Virtual Experience

This paper examines contemporary developments in the creation and experience of immersive 3D art projects in the context of spatial and information design. It takes into consideration historic forebears, particularly the ancient Greek art of memory, contemporary theorists, and current new media artists who are pushing code and application design to new limits. The essay specifically addresses the role of the artist as “coder” and application engineer and anticipates concerns and possible technological developments in data visualization and virtual spaces. As new media artists write their own code, current boundaries between disciplines and sectors become blurred and new aesthetic judgments become pivotal. Additionally, current management and organizational structures are challenged to confront a world that increasingly visualizes and communicates in 3D.
Heavy ion beam induced current/charge (IBIC) through insulating oxides

Model experiments were performed on MOS (metal-oxide semiconductor) capacitors to study ion beam induced charge generation in silicon-on-insulator (SOI) devices. Surprisingly large induced charge was found and a lateral non-uniformity of the induced charge was discovered across the top electrode of the capacitor. In this paper we will give a simple model for the charge induction in MOS structures and an explanation of the lateral changes in the amount of induced charge.
EPA-1211 – Role of 5-HT2a and mglu2 as a gpcr heterocomplex in antipsychotic action

The serotonin (5-HT) and glutamate (Glu) neurotransmitter systems are suspected in the etiology and pathophysiology of schizophrenia, as well as in the mechanism of action of antipsychotic drugs. A high affinity for the serotonin 5-HT 2A receptor is a common characteristic of all atypical antipsychotics. Hallucinogenic 5-HT 2A agonists, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) or psilocybin, produce psychosis-like syndrome in humans that resembles the first episodes of schizophrenia. In addition, in recent clinical studies, a metabotropic glutamate 2/3 (mGlu2/3) receptor agonist has shown promise as a new treatment for schizophrenia. We show that 5-HT 2A and mGlu2 receptors form a specific G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) heteromeric complex through which serotonin and glutamate elicit a unique pattern of G protein coupling in living cells. Our findings suggest that the 5-HT 2A -mGlu2-mediated changes in Gq and Gi activity predict the psychoactive behavioral effects of a variety of pharmacological compounds, including antipsychotic and hallucinogen. These observations provide a molecular mechanistic insight into antipsychotic action.
CYCLIC HOMOLOGY AND THE BEILINSON-MANIN- SCHECHTMAN CENTRAL EXTENSION

We construct central extensions of the Lie algebra of differen- tial operators on a one-dimensional affine variety over a field of characteristic zero, generalizing the Virasoro extension. The construction is an application of recent calculations of the Hochschild and cyclic homology of algebras of differential operators. If M is a smooth affine variety with function ring ??M over a field of characteristic zero, let 2m denote the algebra of differential operators over @m, let Vm C 3!m denote the Lie subalgebra of vector fields on M, and let UM denote the space of fc-forms on M. Recall that if M is one-dimensional and the ground field is R, then the universal central extension of the Lie algebra of Vm has centre isomorphic to H1(M) = UM/dUli (this extension is called the Virasoro extension): »
Field effect transistor as ultrafast detector of modulated terahertz radiation

Abstract Theoretical analysis of the detection of modulated sub-terahertz and terahertz radiation by a short channel field effect transistor (FET) predicts a very high upper limit for modulation frequency, Ωmax, up to 100 GHz or even higher. Even the minimal value of Ωmax, which is reached deep below the threshold, lies in the gigahertz range, thus promising for usage of FET-based structures for ultrafast detection of modulated terahertz radiation
Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry for Elemental Speciation: Applications in the New Millennium

Abstract The current status of elemental speciation using inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) as the method of detection is examined in this paper. Manuscripts that describe specific speciation applications using on‐line hyphenation of gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), capillary electrophoresis (CE), and field flow fractionation (FFF) with ICP‐MS detection are presented. This review covers the application papers published between January 2000 and December 2003. Evaluation of the current literature shows that LC is the most prevalent separation technique for elemental speciation followed by CE, GC, and FFF, respectively.
Effect of human plasma apolipoproteins on the activity of purified lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase.

A homogeneous preparation of active lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT EC 23.1.43) was isolated from human plasma by density ultracentrifugation, high density lipoprotein affinity chromatography, DEAE-Sepharose. and hydroxylapatite chromatography. The enzyme with an apparent molecular weight of 66,000 ± 2,000 was characterized by a high content of glutamic acid, aspartic acid, leucine and glycine, and contained approximately 35 moles of glycosamine/105 g protein and no galactosamine. The purified enzyme, stored at 40 µg/ml at 4 °C, had a half life of 18-30 days. The effect of purified human plasma apolipoproteins A-I, A-II, C-I, C-II, C-III and D on the activity of purified LCAT was studied, using egg-yolk lecithin (40 nM):cholesterol (10 µM) vesicles prepared in 1.25% ethanol in the absence or presence of 0.5% albumin. Significant transacylation occurred only with apoA-I or apoC-I, with maximum activation at 0.18-0.44 µM A-I (n = 11), and 0.71 µM C-I (n = 9). Addition of albumin to the incubation...
Phosphorus Treatment Capability of Marshland Upwelling System under High Background Salinity Conditions

The marshland upwelling system (MUS) is an alternative onsite wastewater treatment system developed for coastal communities. The phosphorus treatment efficiency of the MUS operated under high background salinity conditions (∼32 ppt) was examined over the course of a one-year field study. Five individual studies were investigated by intermittently injecting wastewater at a depth of 3.8 m using flow rates/injection frequency regimes of 1.9 L∕min (30 min∕3 h) , 5.5 L∕min (30 min∕3 h) , 2.8 L∕min (30 min∕3 h) , and 2.8 L∕min (15 min∕h) . There were two studies conducted within the 2.8 L∕min (30 min∕3 h) flow regime: (1) with normal influent and (2) with high strength synthetic wastewater. Over the course of the study, no signs of phosphorus saturation were observed. The overall system efficiency for the entire study was estimated to be >98% . Removal rate coefficients ranged from 0.73– 1.25 m−1 and 0.66– 1.08 m−1 for total phosphorus and orthophosphate, respectively. Upon completion of the final 2.8 L∕min (15...
Connections of the bullfrog striatum: efferent projections.

Autoradiographic and degeneration techniques were used to describe striatal efferents in the bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana). Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was then placed in the major terminal fields to reveal the striatal cells responsible for these projections. Except for the small ventral eminence of the lateral pallium immediately adjacent to the dorsal striatum, no pallial region receives a striatal projection. Most striatal efferents descend in the lateral forebrain bundle (LFB), passing through the anterior entopedun-cular nucleus, where one large fascicle decussates in the anterior commissure and innervates the contralateral anterior entopeduncular nucleus and caudal ventral striatum. A smaller fascicle exits the LFB to terminate in the ipsilateral lateral amygdala. The remaining efferents continue caudal in the LFB through the posterior entopeduncular nucleus, with sparse projections to the ventral thalamus, the adjacent preoptic areas, and the posterior tuberculum leaving the bundle at various points. At pretectal levels, some efferents leave the LFB to run dorsally, through the caudal pole of the central thalamic nucleus and into the posterior division of the lateral nucleus and the lateral portion of the posterior thalamic nucleus. Efferents also continue caudal, through the superficial tegmental cell groups (nucleus profundus mesencephali and superficial isthmal reticular nucleus) before turning dorsomedially into the ventral anterodorsal, lateral anteroventral, and rostral pole of the posterodorsal tegmental fields. A small superficial projection continues to isthmal levels but cannot be traced beyond. Tegmental HRP injections retrogradely fill cells in the dorsal and ventral striatum as well as nucleus accumbens and the anterior entopeduncular nucleus. Pretectal HRP injections fill cells only in the caudal ventral striatum and anterior entopeduncular nucleus. Anterior entopeduncular nucleus HRP injections fill numerous cells in all striatal divisions, but some of this filling may be due to interrupted fibers of passage. Thus the anuran striatum, which receives its major input from thalamic nuclei relaying tectal and toral input, can in turn influence the midbrain roof via several disynaptic pathways: through the anterior entopeduncular nucleus, pretectum, and tegmentum, all of which project directly to the tectum and torus (Wilczynski and Northcutt, ′77; Wilczynski, ′81). Additional trisynaptic routes through the anterior entopeduncular nucleus and its pretectal and tegmental connections parallel the striatal routes.
Modeling the post-reform Chinese economy

Abstract This paper draws on recent theoretical literature to develop a price-responsive empirical model of the post-reform Chinese economy taking into account the two-tier pricing systems operating domestically and in the market for foreign exchange. Model results for major macroeconomic and trade policy changes are presented using a computable general equilibrium model with 24 production sectors. The results are consistent with the underlying theory and highlight the complex policy linkages in post-reform China and the need to take into account the interactions between macroeconomic and trade policies when analyzing economic developments in China.
Heterogeneous Void Nucleation Study in Flip Chip Assembly Process Using No-Flow Underfill

No-flow underfill process has exhibited a narrow feasible process window due to electrical assembly yield loss or underfill voiding. In general, the assembly yield can be improved using reflow process designed at high temperature, while the high temperature condition potentially causes serious underfill voiding. Typically, the underfill voiding can result in critical defects, such as solders fatigue cracking or solders bridge, causing early failures in thermal reliability. Therefore, this study reviews a classical bubble nucleation theory to model voids nucleation during reflow process. The established model designed a reflow process possibly preventing underfill voiding. The reflow process was validated using systematic experiments designed on the theoretical study with a commercial high I/O counts (5000>), fine-pitch (<150 μm) flip chip. The theoretical model exhibits good agreement with experimental results. Thus, this paper presents systematic studies through the use of structured experimentation designed to achieve a high, stable yield, and void-free assembly process on the classical bubble nucleation theory.
Interphase boundary structures of intragranular proeutectoid α plates in a hypoeutectoid TiCr alloy

Abstract Interphase boundary structure on the board faces of proeutectoid α plates in a retained β matrix has been studied in a Ti-6.62at. %Cr alloy by means of conventional and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Misfit compensating ledges with b = c /2[0001] α are observed on the broad faces of α plates. Growth ledges, irregular in path, spacing and alignment, are also observed. The apparent habit plane of the broad faces of α plates and the riser directions of the misfit compensating ledges, determined by trace analysis, imply the presence of the structural ledges predicted in the companion modeling study. High-resolution TEM observation has revealed that biatomic structural ledges with ( 1 1 00) α //(2 11 ) β terraces do indeed exist on the broad faces of α plates, with exactly the characteristics predicted. This result provides the first experimental evidence for structural ledges in any b.c.c.:h.c.p. system.
Lactic acid and xanthan fermentations on an alternative potato residues media – Carbon source costs

Abstract This study estimates the carbon source costs for producing xanthan and lactic acid on alternative potato residues media and assesses the potential for profitability and social net benefits of xanthan and lactic acid fermentations. Xanthan fermentations were conducted in solid and semi-solid mode where there was 60–240 kg dry matter t −1 of potato residues. Average xanthan yield was 249 g kg −1 dry matter, with standard deviation of 149 g kg −1 . Lactic acid fermentations were conducted in submerged mode with starch concentrations of 30–60 kg m −3 . Nine to 54 kg of the starch was fermented to lactic acid with average conversion efficiency of about 60 percent. Fermentation of the residues into xanthan or lactic acid could generate profit and net social benefits; the potential for positive externalities emanates from: i) reducing environmental costs of the residues disposal, and ii) alleviating the pressure on materials that are both conventional media for xanthan and lactic acid fermentations and inputs in subsidized markets for food and fuel.
The Importance of Work and Welfare on Migration of the Poor in the United States

Abstract This paper addresses the effects of work and welfare benefits upon the state-to-state migration of poor in the United States. Evidence is not found to support the welfare-magnet hypothesis. Poor people are not moving to states with higher welfare benefits. AFDC benefits are found to have a negative effect on migration at the origin. Wages and unemployment rates have a negative effect at the destination. Migration is towards areas where the wages and unemployment rates are lower. Poor people, when they can move, follow the jobs, even though these jobs are low paying. Female-headed households and households with more children are also found to be less likely to migrate. Households with the fewest resources are those least likely to move.
Crossed Molecular Beam Study on the Formation of Phenylacetylene and Its Relevance to Titan's Atmosphere

The crossed molecular beam experiment of the deuterated ethynyl radical (C2D; X2Σ+) with benzene [C6H6(X1A1g)] and its fully deuterated analog [C6D6(X1A1g)] was conducted at a collision energy of 58.1 kJ mol−1. Our experimental data suggest the formation of the phenylacetylene-d6 via indirect reactive scattering dynamics through a long-lived reaction intermediate; the reaction is initiated by a barrierless addition of the ethynyl-d1 radical to benzene-d6. This initial collision complex was found to decompose via a tight exit transition state located about 42 kJ mol−1 above the separated products; here, the deuterium atom is ejected almost perpendicularly to the rotational plane of the decomposing intermediate and almost parallel to the total angular momentum vector. The overall experimental exoergicity of the reaction is shown to be 121 ± 10 kJ mol−1; this compares nicely with the computed reaction energy of −111 kJ mol−1. Even though the experiment was conducted at a collisional energy higher than equiva...
Tight-binding model of adsorbate structures

Tight-binding calculations are presented of the ground state energies of metal atoms absorbed on the surface of the same or similar metals. We consider rows and clusters of adsorbate, and find significant energy variations as a function of the number of the atoms. Results are presented for the (001) face both for fcc and bcc crystals. General results that are applicable for any elemental fcc or bcc crystal are obtained in the present paper. We include only s-wave tight-binding orbits in the nearest neighbor approximation.
How U.S. Multinational Corporations, Unions, and Government View Each other and the Direction of U.S. Policies

This article reports on the findings of field interviews with officials of MNCs, unions, and the U.S. government. The findings delineate perceptual gaps among the three groups that, in particular, thwart any meaningful union/MNC and union/government dialogues.
Continuous negative chest-wall pressure as therapy for severe respiratory distress in an older child: Preliminary observations**

fibrous retroperitonitis, Surg. Gynecol. Obstet. 115: 737, 1962. 4. Duffy, J. L.: Fetal retroperitoneal fibrosis associated with hydramnios. Case report with comments upon factors controlling amniotic fluid volume, J. A. M. A. 198: 993, 1966. 5. Hissong, S. L., and Freimanis, A. K.: Retroperitoneal fibrosis: extraretroperitoneal lesions. Report of three unusual areas of involvement, Am. J. Roentgenol. 107: 776, 1969. 6. Packham, D. A., and Yates-Bell, J. G.: The symptomatology and diagnosis of retroperitoneal fibrosis. A review and presentation of case reports, Br. J. Urol. 40: 207, 1968. 7. Schifrin, A., Oppenheimer, G. D., and Krawitt, D. R.: Idiopathic non-specific fibrosing retroperitonitis causing bilateral ureteral compression, Mt. Sinai J. Med. 24: 1186, 1957. 8. Mulvancy, W. P.: Periureteritis obliterans; a retroperitoneal inflammatory disease, J. Urol. 79: 410, 1958. 9. Leffall, L. D., White, J. E., and Mann, M.: Retroperitoneal fibrosis--Two unusual cases, Arch. Surg. 89: 1070, 1964. 10. Lemmon , W. T., and Kiser , W. S.: Id iopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis: Diagnostic enigma: Report of a case simulating diabetes insipidus and a review of the literature, J. Urol. 96: 658, 1966.
Toward a More Meaningful Measure of Firm Growth

firm has frequently been conducted within the context of growth. Growth is also frequently used by business managers as a measure of success over time. A multitude of measures have been used to chart the rate of growth and in most cases the particular measure used appears to be based as much on expediency as on sound reasoning. For researchers to determine optimum growth strategies, or for firm managers to correctly measure their rate of progress and appropriately evaluate business alternatives, an unambiguous comprehensive measure of growth is required. Optimum firm organization can be defined in terms of the configuration of assets and processes used at a particular time and optimum growth in terms of changes in the configuration through time. An optimum growth path specifies a preferred firm organization in each time period. However, an optimal firm organization determined for any isolated time period is not necessarily consistent with optimum growth. An appropriate measure of growth must accurately reflect progress over a series of time periods. As commonly measured, the growth rate can be defined as g = (E/B)-" 1, where g is compound growth rate, E is size of firm at end of growth period, B is size of firm at beginning of growth period, and n is number of years in the growth period. This definition provides a simple approach to determining average growth rates over time and reduces the problem of measuring growth to a question of the appropriate measure of size. Thus, selection of an unambiguous comprehensive measure of growth requires selection of the appropriate measure of size. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the superiority of an appropriately defined wealth measure of size for use in measuring farm growth. The shortcomings of size measures frequently used are identified. The wealth measure of size and a limited information derivative, profit units, are defined. Finally, the proposed measures are evaluated in an empirical example. The wealth measure proposed should be easily adoptable in research situations where net income is available. For empirical studies where net income information is limited, the profit units measure may be more applicable. Shortcomings of Common Size Measures
Contribution of 5-HT2A receptor in nematode infection-induced murine intestinal smooth muscle hypercontractility.

Background & Aims: Enteric nematode infection induces a smooth muscle hypercontractility that depends on interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 activation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 6. Serotonin (5-HT) is involved in the physiologic regulation of gut function. The present study investigated the contribution of 5-HT and its receptors in nematode-induced intestinal smooth muscle hypercontractility. Methods: Mice were infected with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis ( N brasiliensis ) or Heligmosomoides polygyrus ( H polygyrus ) or injected intravenously with IL-13. Segments of jejunum were suspended in organ baths, and smooth muscle responses to 5-HT were determined in the presence or absence of specific 5-HT antagonists. IL-4, IL-13, and 5-HT receptor messenger RNA expressions were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: 5-HT evoked a modest contraction of smooth muscle in wild-type (WT) mice that was unaltered by the 5-HT 2A antagonist ketanserin. N brasiliensis infection induced a smooth muscle hypercontractility to 5-HT that was abolished by 5-HT 2A antagonists but not by other 5-HT antagonists. Infection-induced up-regulation of 5-HT 2A expression was correlated with the smooth muscle hypercontractility to 5-HT. The infection-induced up-regulation of 5-HT 2A in WT mice was observed also in IL-4 −/− mice but was not seen in IL-13 −/− or STAT6 −/− mice. In addition, smooth muscle responses to 5-HT and 5-HT 2A expression in WT mice were also enhanced by IL-13 or H polygyrus infection. Conclusions: These data show that 5-HT 2A is one of the molecules downstream from STAT6 activation that mediates changes in smooth muscle function. 5-HT 2A represents a novel therapeutic target for modulating immune-mediated effects on intestinal motility.
The Innovation Diffusion Process in a Heterogeneous Population: A Micromodeling Approach

A model of the innovation diffusion process is developed using a micromodeling approach that explicitly considers the determinants of adoption at the individual level in a decision analytic framework, and incorporates heterogeneity in the population with respect to initial perceptions, preference characteristics, and responsiveness to information. The micromodelling approach provides a behavioral basis for explaining adoption at the disaggregate level and the consequent pattern of diffusion at the aggregate level. The analytical implications of the model are compared and contrasted with the traditional, aggregate-level, diffusion models. An advantage of our approach is its micro-theory driven flexibility in accommodating various patterns of diffusion. Examples are provided of conditions under which the model yields diffusion patterns identical to those of some well-known aggregate models. A pilot study is reported, outlining procedures for data collection and estimation of the individual-level parameters, and providing a preliminary test of the predictive performance of the model. Measurement of the individual parameters prior to product launch enables potential applications of the model for segmentation of the target population in terms of their expected adoption times.
MARC record services: A comparative study of library practices and perceptions

The number of journal titles available in digital format to libraries through aggregators and publisher packages has increased, but library resources to catalog these titles have not kept pace with the increases. More libraries are therefore turning to MARC record service vendors to provide batches of electronic serials bibliographic records, either full or brief. This study presents the results of a survey asking library personnel about their experiences with and attitudes toward MARC record services. Although many survey participants expressed satisfaction with the services, they also responded that they would like a greater number of more accurate full bibliographic records. Also, although a majority of libraries use a separate records approach with the services, a significant minority use a single record approach.
Dialectical possibilities of thwarted responsibilities

Abstract The university’s responsibility in the new world dominated by global organizations is to articulate the contemporary socio-economic challenges brought about by the globalization of capital and capitalistic enterprises, enlighten society to the implications, and formulate and disseminate means for responding in an informed and just manner to the challenges. The paper argues that the colonization of the lifeworld of the university, especially schools and departments of accounting, has, and continues to, inhibit, indeed actively thwarts, the academy in carrying out its social responsibility. In a previous work (Dillard & Tinker, 1996), the authors argue that the international management system is directly implicated in dictating process and content within business schools by, among other things, influencing the accreditation standards of the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The current paper evaluates the developments subsequent to the total quality management (TQM) based accreditation standards implemented in the early 1990s. The focus is primarily on accounting education, accounting department/schools, and the accounting academic. A case is made for the position that the new Baldridge Award criteria for education performance excellence, the new AACSB accounting accreditation guidelines approved in 2000, the revolutionary changes in the constitution and by-laws of Beta Alpha Psi (the US professional accounting fraternity), and the current position of the American Accounting Association (AAA) as articulated in AAA monograph (Accounting Education Series, No. 16) by Albrecht and Sack are manifestations of the managerialist influence continuing to at best neutralize the academy’s responsibilities to any constituencies other than global capitalism primarily articulated in the demands of the Big 5 professional service (formally accounting) firms. The discussion evaluates the recommendations of each of the four regulative documents in terms of the underlying ideology and concludes with a discussion of the dialectic possibilities confronting accounting education.
THE FISCAL HISTORY OF VIRGINIA FROM 1860 TO 1870

s of Doctoral Dissertations 543 Virginia financed its Civil War operations principally by taxation and short-term debts. Virginia Treasury notes were hoarded, while Confederate notes circulated with ever increasing velocity. During the war the state's chief fiscal officer, the Auditor of Public Accounts, replaced legislative committees in preparing estimates of income and expenditures and in recommending needed changes in fiscal laws. By Act of Congress, Civil War debts were declared null and void. However, between 1865 and 1870, the prewar debt weighed heavily on the destitute Commonwealth. Accrued interest was funded several times. Though there was no long-term state borrowing during the Reconstruction, by 1870 the debt amounted to almost $45 million. Throughout the Reconstruction, Virginia was governed by conservative military commanders, and at no time did the radicals gain control of the state government. However, radicals did frame the Constitution of 1867-68. As finally adopted, this constitution represented great progress in the tax and spending policies of Virginia. The errors it contained were eliminated by amendments, but improvements which it made in Virginia's fiscal system have endured through the years. The state's fiscal system was more favorable to the development of a free-market economy after the adoption of this constitution required the reassessment of property every five years; it limited the rate of the capitation tax; and it prohibited the contracting by the state for debt except under stringent conditions. As Virginia entered the decade of the 1870's, the problem facing its legislature was: How can Virginia pay interest and principal on the public debt and conduct the functions required by its new constitution? This content downloaded from 40.77.167.85 on Mon, 11 Jul 2016 06:07:39 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms
Biological control of apple mites - Impact of Zetzellia mali (Acari, Stigmaeidae) on Typhlodromus pyri and Metaseiulus occidentalis (Acari, Phytoseiidae)

Zetzellia mali (Ewing) feeds on and is fed upon by Typhlodromus pyri Scheuten and Metaseiulus occidentalis (Nesbitt), especially when phytophagous mites are scarce on apple foliage. These mites interact indirectly through competition for prey. Probably because of both indirect and direct effects, T. pyri was less dense and M. occidentalis was much less dense in plots with Z. mali than in plots where Z. mali was suppressed by endosulfan. M. occidentalis also had less effect on Z. mali than T. pyri . Biological control of Panonychus ulmi (Koch) and Aculus schlechtendali Nalepa was effective where Z. mali occurred alone at high levels or with either or both phytoseiids. Plots that received mixed T. pyri–M. occidentalis had effective control of pest mites with or without Z. mali. Z. mali displaced M. occidentalis and controlled pest mites in plots with M. occidentalis only. In plots with T. pyri only, dominance of T. pyri or Z. mali was mixed—most often near equal levels occurred, but sometimes one or the other dominated. In mixed plots T. pyri displaced M. occidentalis in 1991, but interactions between T. pyri and Z. mali in 1992 were like those in plots with T. pyri only. Releases of 25–50 M. occidentalis and 200–300 P. ulmi into trees with many Z. mali did not allow for establishment of M. occidentalis , but establishment readily occurred where few Z. mali were present. Management of M. occidentalis, T. pyri, Z. mali , and pest mites is discussed in relation to long-term biological control.
Systems of differential equations that are competitive or cooperative. V: Convergence in 3-dimensional systems

Abstract For 3-dimensional systems that are competitive or cooperative we present new criteria for existence of equilibria and cycles, convergence of all trajectories, global stability, and structural stability. A certain type of positive feedback loop is shown to be structurally stable.
Determination of usnic acid in lichen toxic to elk by liquid chromatography with ultraviolet and tandem mass spectrometry detection.

Usnic acid is unambiguously confirmed by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) in tumbleweed shield lichen, Xanthoparmelia chlorochroa. The lichen contains 2% usnic acid by liquid chromatography with UV quantification at 282 nm. The UV linear range for usnic acid quantification is from its 4 ng limit of detection to 2 μg injected. UV signal saturation is recognized by distortion of the usnic acid UV spectrum. Positive ion electrospray−tandem mass spectrometry offers no similar means to recognize quantification data recorded above the linear range of electrospray. Electrospray ionization capacity and matrix effects limit the reliability of tandem mass spectrometry quantification. The combination of UV quantification and MS confirmation provides a reliable analytical method for measuring usnic acid levels in plant material. Keywords: Elk deaths; liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry; LC-MS/MS; tumbleweed shield lichen; Usnea barbata; usnic acid; Xanthoparmelia chlorochroa
A Review of Assessment of Student Learning Programs at AACSB Schools: A Dean's Perspective

The authors report the results of a survey of 420 deans at Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-accredited business schools in an attempt to describe how these schools have implemented the new assurance of learning standards. The results indicate that the majority of schools budget over $10,000 annually to implement their assessment programs. Written or oral assignments are frequently used as direct measures of student leaning. Surveys of graduating seniors and alumni are often used as indirect measures of student learning. Minor modifications to existing courses and closer coordination of multisection courses were the most frequent changes made to improve student learning. Faculty frequently participate in assessment tasks, including defining the learning goals of the degree program, developing instruments to measure student learning, and creating and implementing changes to improve student learning. Major causes of faculty resistance to assessment include the demanding time commitment a...
Equilibrium equivalence theorem and its applications to control and stability analysis

This article studies dynamical systems under perturbations. We prove an Equilibrium Equivalence Theorem that guarantees that the dynamics of the system remains unchanged under perturbations with certain fairly general assumptions. We also prove that a power system is robust with respect to parameter changes in generic situations. Concepts of equilibrium equivalence and equilibrium equivalence structural stability are developed and are applied to studies of bifurcations of vector fields on noncompact manifolds. A constructive approach to equilibrium equivalence structural stability verification is emphasized. General results on structural stability of vector fields on differential manifolds are established and important applications of this theory to stability analysis are considered.
Synergistic role of progestogens in estrogen induction of LH and FSH surge.

A synergistic effect of 20∞OH pregn-en-3-one (20∞P) on estrogen induced LHFSH peak was demonstrated in castrate female rats. When high doses of 40 μg and 100 μg/day ethinyl estradiol (EE) were administered over 5 days time to castrate rats, a biphasic response in serum LH was seen. During the first 4 days, LH concentrations progressively fell and then on day 5 a surge or peak occurred. FSH also fell progressively, but no peak occurred on day 5. Lower doses of EE resulted in suppression of both serum LH and FSH, but no surge of LH occurred. However, when 20∞P was added on the Sth day of treatment with a subthreshold (for stimulation of LH) dose of EE (0.4 μg/day), a surge in both serum LH and FSH occurred. If progesterone was given instead of 20∞P on day 5, a surge of serum LH but not FSH occurred. 17∞OH progesterone (17∞P) had no synergistic effect. P, 20∞P or 17∞P given alone to castrate rats had no effect on serum LH or FSH. We postulate that in rats 20∞P may have a synergistic effect with estradiol in ...
Virus infection alters the predatory behavior of an omnivorous vector

Th e interactions between parasites and their hosts can cause profound changes in host behavior, including changes that can alter other trophic interactions. Th e western fl ower thrips Frankliniella occidentalis is an important omnivorous insect vector of Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), which infects crops worldwide and also infects its thrips vector. Here, we show that tospovirus-infected female thrips become more predaceous, illustrating how the functional role of omnivores may change in response to pathogen infection. Our fi ndings support the hypothesis that increased predation among virus-infected female thrips compensates for the detrimental eff ects of virus infection. Because predatory behavior is unlikely to increase virus transmission to plants, it is doubtful that this shift in feeding behavior is due to an adaptive parasite manipulation of vector behavior. In this study, increases in predatory behavior were observed in female thrips, but not in male thrips. Th is sexually dimorphic compensatory response indicates that male and female thrips utilize diff erent feeding strategies to compensate for parasite infection, the expression of which is constrained by resource availability. Our fi ndings demonstrate a novel, but potentially common pathway by which viruses can infl uence the structure of trophic interactions in food webs.
ATP-dependent Hexameric Assembly of the Heat Shock Protein Hsp101 Involves Multiple Interaction Domains and a Functional C-proximal Nucleotide-binding Domain

Members of the Hsp100 family of heat stress proteins are present in species throughout the bacterial, plant, and fungal kingdoms. Most Hsp100 proteins are composed of five domains that include two nucleotide-binding domains required for their ATP-dependent oligomerization. Mutations within the first but not the second nucleotide-binding site disrupt self-assembly of bacterial Hsp100, whereas the reverse is true for yeast Hsp104. We have examined the functional requirements for oligomerization of plant Hsp101 and have found that Hsp101 resembles Hsp104 in that it assembles into a hexameric complex in an ATP-dependent manner. Self-assembly of Hsp101 involves at least three distinct interaction domains located in the N-proximal domain and in the first and second nucleotide-binding domains. The interaction domain in the second nucleotide-binding domain included the Walker A motif, and mutations within this element disrupted self-assembly of Hsp101. In contrast, mutations affecting conserved residues of the Walker A motif within the first nucleotide-binding site did not affect self-assembly. No interaction between Hsp101 and Hsp104 was observed. These results suggest that plant Hsp101 self-assembly involves multiple evolutionarily diverged interaction domains as well as an evolutionarily conserved requirement for a functional C-proximal nucleotide-binding site.
Mechanisms of sinoatrial node dysfunction in a canine model of pacing-induced atrial fibrillation

Background The mechanism of sinoatrial node (SAN) dysfunction in atrial fibrillation (AF) is unclear. Objective The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that defective spontaneous sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca 2+ release (Ca 2+ clock) is in part responsible for SAN dysfunction in AF. Methods Arrhythmic events and SAN function were evaluated in pacing-induced AF dogs (n = 7) and in normal dogs (n = 19) with simultaneous intracellular calcium (Ca i ) and membrane potential recording. Results AF dogs had frequent sinus pauses during Holter monitoring. Isolated right atrium (RA) from AF dogs showed slower heart rate ( P = .001), longer SAN recovery time ( P = .001), and longer sinoatrial conduction time ( P = .003) than normal. In normal RAs, isoproterenol 0.3 and 1 μmol/L increased heart rate by 96% and 105%, respectively. In contrast, in RAs from AF dogs, isoproterenol increased heart rate by only 60% and 72%, respectively. Isoproterenol induced late diastolic Ca i elevation (LDCAE) at superior SAN in all 19 normal RAs but in only 3 of 7 AF RAs ( P = .002). In AF RAs without LDCAE (n = 4), heart rate increased by the acceleration of ectopic foci. Caffeine (20 mmol/L) injection increased heart rate with LDCAE in all 6 normal RAs but did not result in LDCAE in any of the 5 AF RAs ( P = .002). Type 2 ryanodine receptor (RyR2) in the superior SAN of AF dogs was decreased to 33% of normal ( P = .02). Conclusion SAN dysfunction in AF is associated with Ca 2+ clock malfunction, characterized by unresponsiveness to isoproterenol and caffeine and down-regulation of RyR2 in SAN.
Deposition of tin-doped indium oxide films by a modified reactive magnetron sputtering process

Abstract It has been difficult to deposit high quality indium tin oxide (ITO) films onto large area polymeric substrates that cannot be heated (over 40–50 °C) during deposition or subjected to post-deposition annealing. We have developed a modified process based on reactive magnetron sputtering of a metallic indium tin alloy target to deposit good quality ITO films with deposition rates as high as 4A s-1 at a target-substrate distance of 10 in. Films with sheet resistance less than 10 Ω/□ and integrated visible transmission greater than 85% have been deposited using this process onto 12 in 12 × 12 in polymeric substrates at ambient temperature. A detailed description of the above process with an emphasis on obtaining control over the properties and reproducibility of good quality ITO films using this technique is presented in this paper.
Gentamicin release from two‐solution and powder–liquid poly(methyl methacrylate)‐based bone cements by using novel pH method

The release of gentamicin as a function of time was measured for Palacos and two-solution bone cements by using a novel pH technique. The pH of an aqueous solution of gentamicin is a function of the gentamicin concentration and it decreases linearly over concentrations of 0.0-0.1 wt %. Therefore, a new, direct, and inexpensive in vitro technique was developed based on continuous readings of the pH in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at 37 degrees C to determine the release kinetics of gentamicin from poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-based bone cement. In addition, this method was used to compare the release profiles of Palacos R-40 bone cement with a two-solution bone cement developed in our laboratory and loaded with two different concentrations of gentamicin sulfate. Finally, the pH-based method was used to track the elution of gentamicin in both mixed and static conditions to determine the effect of mixing on the diffusion of gentamicin out of the cement. It was found that Palacos R-40 released 4.95 +/- 0.22 wt % of its gentamicin after 24 h in PBS solution. This data compares favorably with previously reported values of gentamicin elution from Palacos R-40, which ranged from 3 to 8 wt % of the total amount of incorporated gentamicin, depending on the size and the surface area of the samples. The results show that Palacos samples released 4.84 +/- 0.27 mg after 24 h, a two-solution cement loaded with an equivalent concentration of gentamicin sulfate released 3.81 +/- 0.52 mg, and two-solution cement loaded with twice the concentration of Palacos released 5.53 +/- 0.26 mg of gentamicin. A higher percentage of release was recorded from Palacos than from the two-solution bone cement, and the effect of PBS mixing conditions on the release kinetics was only significant in the early stages of release and not at 24 h. It was concluded that monitoring the pH is an effective technique to measure gentamicin release from PMMA-based bone cements in PBS solution.
Improvements of Fast Fluid Dynamics for Simulating Air Flow in Buildings

Fast fluid dynamics (FFD) can potentially be used for real-time indoor air-flow simulations. This study developed two-dimensional fast fluid dynamics (2-D FFD) into three-dimensional fast fluid dynamics (3-D FFD). The implementation of boundary conditions at the outlet was improved with a local mass conservation method. A near-wall treatment for the semi-Lagrangian scheme was also proposed. This study validated the 3-D FFD with five flows that have features of indoor air flow. The results show that the 3-D FFD can successfully capture the three dimensionality of air-flow and provide reliable and reasonably accurate simulations for indoor air flows with a speed of about 15 times faster than current computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools.
Efficacy of Structural-Level Condom Distribution Interventions: A Meta-Analysis of U.S. and International Studies, 1998–2007

This systematic review examines the overall efficacy of U.S. and international-based structural-level condom distribution interventions (SLCDIs) on HIV risk behaviors and STIs and identifies factors associated with intervention efficacy. A comprehensive literature search of studies published from January 1988 through September 2007 yielded 21 relevant studies. Significant intervention effects were found for the following outcomes: condom use, condom acquisition/condom carrying, delayed sexual initiation among youth, and reduced incident STIs. The stratified analyses for condom use indicated that interventions were efficacious for various groups (e.g., youth, adults, males, commercial sex workers, clinic populations, and populations in areas with high STI incidence). Interventions increasing the availability of or accessibility to condoms or including additional individual, small-group or community-level components along with condom distribution were shown to be efficacious in increasing condom use behaviors. This review suggests that SLCDIs provide an efficacious means of HIV/STI prevention.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Water Stable Isotope Compositions at the Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory: Linkages to Subsurface Hydrologic Processes

To better understand flow pathways and patterns in the subsurface, a stable isotope monitoring network was established at the Susquehanna-Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory (SSHCZO). Soil water samples were collected approximately biweekly using suction-cup lysimeters installed at multiple depths along four different transects in the catchment. Groundwater and stream water were collected daily in the valley using automatic samplers, while precipitation samples were collected automatically on an event basis. The 3+ years (2008–2012) of monitoring data showed strong seasonal precipitation isotope compositions, which were imprinted in seasonal patterns of soil water at different spatial locations and depths. The groundwater isotope composition remained relatively constant throughout the year and closely matched the yearly amount-weighted precipitation average, suggesting groundwater received recharge water in each season, although recharge mechanisms differed between growing and nongrowing seasons. Soil water samples showed clear attenuation with depth, with the largest variability in the shallow soil water (≤30 cm) mirroring precipitation inputs, moderate variability in the intermediate depths (40–100 cm), and the least variability in the deep soil water (≥120 cm) where the average remained near the groundwater average. Soil water isotope composition profiles also provided clear evidence for preferential flow occurring both laterally and vertically in different seasons and at various soil depths in the catchment. Putting all together, the extensive dataset of soil water isotopic compositions obtained in this study have provided a number of insights into complex subsurface hydrologic processes that are transferable to other similar landscapes.