cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New Security Threats on FPGAs: From FPGA Design Tools Perspective

The growing market share of FPGAs motivates the increasing number of attackers to tamper with FPGA systems. The majority of existing research efforts on FPGA security focus on counterfeiting devices, hardware Trojans, reverse engineering hardware designs via decomposing or decrypting bitstream files, and side-channel analysis attacks. Those attacks are typically limited to the FPGA systems implemented in standalone FPGA devices. As more cloud-based FPGA providers, third-party accelerator suppliers, and open-source FPGA design tools are available for prototyping, hardware acceleration, and high-performance computing, new FPGA utilization models are gradually formed. The increasing number of entities involved in the new FPGA use model leads to the emergence of new security threats and attack surfaces. Although the security issues on FPGA systems design and piracy have been widely investigated, there is limited investigation available disclosing the security threats from the FPGA design tools perspective. This work conducts a comprehensive survey on the FPGA tool security and proposes a thorough security threat landscape for the new FPGA utilization model in the era of machine learning and cloud computing.
Erkrankungen der Aorta und des arteriellen Gefäßsystems

In diesem Kapitel werden die syphilitische Aortitis, die Aortenaneurysmen, die verschiedensten Arteriitiden, die systemarteriellen Embolien sowie die arteriovenosen Fisteln des Korperkreislaufs beschrieben. Arteriitiden und Embolien treten in Verbindung mit einer Reihe von Erkrankungen auf. An dieser Stelle sollen hauptsachlich die kardiologischen Aspekte behandelt werden. Zum Teil wurden die systemarteriellen Embolien bereits bei den haufig zugrunde liegenden Herzkrankheiten besprochen.
Inhibition of Photophosphorylation in Spinach Chloroplasts by Inorganic Sulfate

Abstract Illumination of chloroplasts in the presence of sulfate, ADP, and Mg2+ causes 35 to 50% inhibition of a subsequent phosphorylation reaction; ADP cannot be replaced by other nucleotides. Compounds that normally inhibit photophosphorylation prevent the appearance of the sulfate-induced inhibition. No evidence was found for phosphorylation site specificity of the sulfate inhibition. In chloroplasts inhibited by preliminary illumination with sulfate, the light-induced pH rise and the P/e2 ratio in a phosphorylating Hill reaction are inhibited as much as photophosphorylation is. The pH rise can be restored by dicyclohexylcarbodiimide. Both the trypsin- and dithiothreitol-activated Ca2+-dependent ATPase activities associated with the chloroplast coupling factor (CF1) are decreased in sulfate-inhibited chloroplasts. Removal of CF1 from the membranes followed by recombination with CF1 from noninhibited chloroplasts restores the pH rise completely and phosphorylation to a large extent. From these and other experimental results it is concluded that sulfate, in the presence of ADP and Mg2+, interacts with CF1 on chloroplast membranes under conditions of coupled electron flow so as to cause a modification of CF1 structure.
Phospholipase A of snake venoms. II. Catalytic properties of the enzyme from Naja naja.

Abstract Several isoenzymes of phospholipase A from Naja naja venom have been studied in regard to specificity of action on pure phosphatides (natural and synthetic) and on membrane-bound phospholipids and compared with phospholipases A from other species. Test systems for membrane-bound substrates included the solubilization of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase from inner membranes of heart mitochondria, choline dehydrogenase from liver mitochondria, α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase from brain mitochondria, and the formation of endogenous inhibitors of NADH oxidase in inner membrane. Although it is clear that all of these activities are due to the action of phospholipase A itself, the kinetics of action on membrane systems are complex, so that the activity on membranes is not a simple function of phospholipase concentration. Marked differences have been noted among phospholipases A from different venoms in regard to specificity toward membrane-bound phospholipids, the effect of added Ca+2 ions and of inorganic phosphate. Significant differences in specificity have also been noted among isoenzymes from the same venom (N. naja and Russell's viper). The effect of inhibitors selective for thiol, disulfide, histidine, and serine groups on the isoenzymes from these sources has also been examined.
Energy metabolism in the liver

The liver is an essential metabolic organ, and its metabolic function is controlled by insulin and other metabolic hormones. Glucose is converted into pyruvate through glycolysis in the cytoplasm, and pyruvate is subsequently oxidized in the mitochondria to generate ATP through the TCA cycle and oxidative phosphorylation. In the fed state, glycolytic products are used to synthesize fatty acids through de novo lipogenesis. Long-chain fatty acids are incorporated into triacylglycerol, phospholipids, and/or cholesterol esters in hepatocytes. These complex lipids are stored in lipid droplets and membrane structures, or secreted into the circulation as very low-density lipoprotein particles. In the fasted state, the liver secretes glucose through both glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. During pronged fasting, hepatic gluconeogenesis is the primary source for endogenous glucose production. Fasting also promotes lipolysis in adipose tissue, resulting in release of nonesterified fatty acids which are converted into ketone bodies in hepatic mitochondria though β-oxidation and ketogenesis. Ketone bodies provide a metabolic fuel for extrahepatic tissues. Liver energy metabolism is tightly regulated by neuronal and hormonal signals. The sympathetic system stimulates, whereas the parasympathetic system suppresses, hepatic gluconeogenesis. Insulin stimulates glycolysis and lipogenesis but suppresses gluconeogenesis, and glucagon counteracts insulin action. Numerous transcription factors and coactivators, including CREB, FOXO1, ChREBP, SREBP, PGC-1α, and CRTC2, control the expression of the enzymes which catalyze key steps of metabolic pathways, thus controlling liver energy metabolism. Aberrant energy metabolism in the liver promotes insulin resistance, diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases.
Dual band infrared/visible quantum well detector and optically pumped intersubband laser

Deals with a detector concept for the simultaneous detection of thermal infrared and visible (or near infrared) light. We use both interband and intersubband transition processes in a quantum well structure for the device operation. Experimental results on both InGaAs/InP and GaAs/AlGaAs structures demonstrate the validity of this concept. The idea of dual band operation of an InGaAs/InP quantum well infrared photodetector (QWIP) is straightforward. A usual QWIP structure with InGaAs wells and InP barriers is used for mid-infrared detection. The second part reports on results ofa newly developed optically pumped intersubband laser. Intersubband transition between confined states in quantum wells is a fully collective phenomenon displaying distinct many-body effects. These effects are seen in an optically pumped intersubband laser.
Taking advantage of tool's performance for dynamic lot dispatch

A method for dynamic matching of wafer lots waiting for processing and available tools to maximize wafer output. Wafer lot information and tool capability and availability is provided. Priority wafer lots are processed first. All permutations of the remaining no priority lots and available tools are then formed. The longest process time for each permutation is then calculated. A permutation wafer per hour (PWPH) equal to the total number of wafers processed for each permutation divided by the longest process time for that the permutation is calculated. If only one permutation has the highest PWPH that the permutation is selected for processing. If more than one permutation has the highest PWPH, the total wafer per hour (TWPH) equals to the sum of the wafer per hour capability of each tool in the permutation that is calculated for those permutations. Any permutation with the highest PWPH and TWPH is selected for processing.
Flexible fine-grained version control for software documents

Internal structures of software artifacts, especially program source code, are very important to software engineers in developing and maintaining a high-quality software. However, existing version control and configuration management systems often treat a software system as a set of files in directories on a file system. They usually disregard the logical structures of documentations and program source code and treat them as a set of lines for version control. Therefore, it creates burdensome for ordinary developers because the implementation domain (logical level) and the version control domain (file level) require different mental models. This paper describes the fine-grained version control tool of the software concordance environment that is flexible to manage the evolution of many different structural levels in a software document.
William R. Maples and the Development of the American Board of Forensic Anthropology

If a person's death is marked by the good he has done, then William R. Maples's passing will be remembered long and well. One of Bill's professional bestowal's was serving on many forensic sciences committees and boards. This paper examines his contribution to forensic anthropology through his activities in the American Board of Forensic Anthropology as a diplomate, director, treasurer, and president.
Demographic Changes in the El Paso-Juárez-Las Cruces

La region binacional integrada por los municipios de El Paso, Las Cruces y Ciudad Juarez es uno de los mayores centros metropolitanos en la frontera Mexico-Estados Unidos. En este trabajo se examinan los padrones y los componentes de los cambios de poblacion en esta area durante la decada de los ochenta con proyecciones de la poblacion por edad y sexo. Asimismo, considerando la migracion e indices de fertilidad por grupos etnicos, se presentan proyecciones para los Estados Unidos hasta el ano 2000 y el 2010. De donde se concluye que la migracion latina esta anadiendo relativamente mas hombres y, sobre todo, mas hispanos al lado estadunidense de la frontera, mientras que El Paso presenta una migracion no hispana hacia afuera. Para finalizar se proyecta una poblacion de 2.6 millones de gente para el ano 2010 en la region, es decir, aproximadamente 700,000 menos que para la region metropolitana de San Diego-Tijuana en 1990.
Historical resources, uncertainty and preservation values: An application of option and optimal stopping models

State agencies and private historical organizations frequently acquire historical sites with unknown characteristics. In this paper, we provide two approaches to evaluating the preservation decision. In the first approach, we show that a historical site which is not permanently preserved provides citizens with a certain flexibility whose value can be measured as an option on the maximum between the current real estate value and the preservation value. In the second approach, we assume that the organization has an infinite planning horizon and chooses the optimal sale date. Using a contingent valuation estimate of the public's willingness to pay for preservation of a specific historical site and the real estate price, we provide simulation values of the preservation option value and the optimal stopping rule.
The prevalence of cobalamin deficiency among vegetarians assessed by serum vitamin B12: a review of literature

The prevalence of cobalamin deficiency among vegetarians assessed by serum vitamin B12: a review of literature
A simple derivation of minimal and near-minimal realization of 2-D transfer functions

The realizations of 2-D transfer functions presented in [1] are derived by an alternative procedure. This procedure is very simple, intuitively appealing, and allows cases more general than those in [1] to be effortlessly treated.
Clinical manifestations in patients with antibody to PL-12 antigen (alanyl-tRNA synthetase)

Abstract purpose: Anti-PL-12 antibody is directed at the enzyme alanyl-tRNA synthetase (ARS). Studies have clearly associated anti-Jo-1, also directed at an aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase (histidyl-tRNA synthetase), with a subgroup of myositis marked by a high frequency of interstitial lung disease (ILD) and arthritis. A similar syndrome has been reported in patients with antibodies to PL-12, but few patients have been studied. We describe the clinical manifestations in a new series of patients with antibody to PL-12. patients and methods: Sera from patients with polymyositis and sora found to contain anticytoplasmic antibodies were screened for antibody to PL-12 by testing for inhibition of ARS enzymatic activity by serum, and by immunoprecipitation. results: Nine sera inhibited ARS. These nine plus two additional sera with anticytoplasmic antibodies immunoprecipitated an identical pattern of tRNAs and a polypeptide of 110 kd. Of the 10 patients that could be evaluated, eight had some evidence of myositis, including six that satisfied the criteria for myositis. Three of these six, all with dermatomyositis, had severe muscle involvement. Eight of the 10 patients had radiographic evidence of pulmonary fibrosis, and seven of the eight had clinical pulmonary impairment, including four with clinically severe ILD. Joint manifestations were found in five patients, and arthritis was the only clinical problem in one patient. conclusion: We conclude that anti-PL-12, like anti-Jo-1 and anti-PL-7, was frequently associated with the "Jo-1 syndrome" of myositis with ILD. ILD was a major clinical problem in this group of patients.
Development of broad-host-range vectors for expression of cloned genes in Pseudomonas.

Abstract The cloning and expression of genes in Pseudomonas have been difficult, until now, due to the absence of vector systems that contain multiple restriction sites downstream from promoter sequences that are functional in Pseudomonas. We report here the construction of several broad-host-range vectors that can be utilized in either Pseudomonas or Escherichia coli and that rely on easily selectable antibiotic resistance markers with multiple cloning sites. These vectors were constructed by inserting the entire pUC13 sequence into derivatives of the RSF1010 wide-host-range plasmid. From this construction, other derivatives were obtained, specifically a lacZ:: KmR fusion gene which provides an easily selectable marker in both E. coli and Pseudomonas. These vectors have been used to express the Pseudomonas putida cytochrome P450 monoxygenase gene in a P450-deficient P. putida strain. Thus, these vectors allow for the cloning, expression and selection of Pseudomonas genes in Pseudomonas by complementation.
In vitro synthesis of bacteriophage f1 proteins

Abstract Covalently closed, circular, double-stranded DNA isolated from cells infected with bacteriophage f1 has been used as a template for coupled transcription and translation in vitro. By using appropriate amber mutants of the phage, it has been possible to identify six gene-specific polypeptides. Three of these correspond to previously known proteins (products of genes III, V and VIII), while three others had not been previously identified (products of genes I, II and IV). No polypeptides could be identified as the products of genes VI and VII. The relative amounts of the various polypeptide products are highly sensitive to the concentration of magnesium ions, somewhat sensitive to the concentration of monovalent cations, but are not affected by the introduction of a limited number of single-strand breaks into the template. No differences could be detected between the profile of products made in extracts of phage f 1 -infected cells when compared with the profile of products made in extracts of uninfected cells. Suppression of the amber mutations by Su+ tRNA is demonstrated. Additionally, however, Su+ tRNA added to the in vitro system promotes the synthesis of an additional polypeptide not found in the presence of Su− tRNA. This phenomenon is independent of the genetic constitution of the template, and is postulated to result from the suppression of a weak terminator.
Estimating Energy Costs Using a Markov Model for a Midwest Off-Grid Residence

The use of energy storage in conjunction with renewable energy sources such as wind and solar is receiving more attention to help mitigate the effects of the intermittent nature of these sources at off-grid residences. One wishes to maximize the probability that there will be enough energy available to meet the residential load demand while minimizing the cost of both the renewable energy sources as well as the energy storage device(s). In this paper, the energy storage required to ensure high reliability of supply to an off-grid residence in the Midwest is determined iteratively based on the amount of installed solar power. A Markov model is employed consisting of 288 state transition matrices to generate synthetic solar data for analysis. By accounting for the costs of both the photovoltaic system and the energy required energy storage, an optimal cost solution is provided.
In Vitro Analysis of Cotton Pollen Germination

Crops with economically valuable reproductive structures show the greatest negative discrepancy between average and record yields. To alleviate environmental stress-related yield reductions, a better understanding of the relative sensitivities of pollen development, dehiscence, pollen germination, pollen tube growth, fertilization, and subsequent boll development is needed. Progress in identifying the sensitivities of these developmental stress responses has been hampered in part by the lack of a rapid and reliable method of germinating cotton (Gossyplum spp.) pollen in vitro. The present study describes the development of an in vitro cotton pollen germination system that provides improved pollen germination levels and pollen tube growth over existing methods. This procedure was used to evaluate the temperature sensitivity of pollen from greenhouse and field-grown cotton. The medium comprises 10% (w/v) agarose (pH 7.6), 25% (w/v) sucrose, 0.52 mM KNO 3 , 3.06 mM MnSO 4 , 1.66 mM H 3 BO 3 , 0.42 mM MgS0 4 .7H 2 0, and 1.0 μM A 3 gibberellie acid. The medium is overlayed with a layer of 1.5% agarose before use. Optimum pollen germination and rapid tube elongation occurred between 28 and 31°C under 80% relative humidity. Decreed pollen germination occurred at temperatures above 37°C, and decreased tube elongation occurred at temperatures above 32°C. Evaluation of pollen, taken at 1400 h from field-grown cotton plants, showed that pollen from flowers exposed to direct sunlight had reduced viability compared with pollen from flowers inside the canopy. This could be attributed to the fact that flowers from field-grown irrigated cotton plants exposed to full sunlight experienced internal temperatures as high as 39°C, well above the 28 to 31°C optimum for pollen germination.
Identification of risk factors for the development of clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea following treatment of polymicrobial surgical infections.

The United States has experienced a recent rise in the incidence of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD).1–6 Much of this rise is thought to be attributable to a new, more virulent strain of C. difficile.3 This strain, restriction-endonuclease analysis group BI and North American Pulse Field Gel Electrophoresis type 1 (BI/NAP1), has been associated with an increasing morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients who have developed CDAD since 2001, and has also been implicated in CDAD among otherwise healthy persons in the community.3,7–10 Both surgery and advanced age are risk factors for hospital-associated CDAD, making the problem especially pertinent to surgeons.4,11–13 Of equal importance, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has threatened to add CDAD to the list of healthcare-associated conditions for which Medicare will no longer pay at a higher weighted Medicare severity diagnosis-related group.14 Prevention of CDAD is of paramount importance and predicated on understanding and mitigating the risk factors associated with its development. Exposure to penicillins, clindamycin, and cephalosporins has classically conferred the greatest risk of CDAD development,11,15,16 while advanced age, increased exposure to C. difficile spores, and decreased immunity are commonly described host-derived risk factors.4,11–13,17 Other risk factors have more recently emerged including exposure to fluoroquinolones8,18–21 and proton-pump inhibitors.20,22 The role of certain antibiotics in lessening CDAD risk is less well defined.2,23 Specifically, the use of a CDAD therapeutic agent (metronidazole or vancomycin) during treatment of other infections to prevent the development of symptomatic CDAD has been employed despite the absence of guidelines or documented evidence supporting this approach23; it can be reasonably inferred that the use of metronidazole to treat infections with a potential anaerobic component may have preventive effects against subsequent CDAD. Infections among surgical patients, including intra-abdominal, surgical site, and skin/skin structure infections, are frequently anaerobic or mixed aerobic-anaerobic infections and are therefore subject to polymicrobial antibiotic coverage, including metronidazole. Accordingly, we sought to identify risk factors for CDAD development in surgical patients following treatment of polymicrobial infections. Specifically, we hypothesized that those patients treated with metronidazole would be at lower risk for subsequent C. difficile infection.
Dose effects of stents in intravascular brachytherapy for in-stent restenosis: a Monte Carlo calculation

Abstract Purpose: Intravascular brachytherapy (IVBT) has been recognized as a preferred treatment for coronary in-stent restenosis (ISR) in routine practice. Stents made of high-Z materials will inevitably perturb the dose distribution of IVBT. In this work, we have conducted a systematic study on these dose perturbations for three commercially available IVBT sources. Methods and Materials: The EGSnrc Monte Carlo codes were used to calculate the dose distributions for the 90 Sr, 32 P, and 192 Ir IVBT sources with and without a metallic stent in place. The ring stent type made of different material and with different strut size, metallic surface area (MSA), and radius was studied. Results: Calculations show that dose enhancement of 5% to 20% occurs inside stent in the region close to the stent struts (luminal side) for all three sources. In the region outside stent (adventitial side), dose reduction of 5% to 20% is observed for a beta source, whereas the dose effect is negligible for the gamma source. For a given stent design, the tantalum stent yields a larger dose effect than other stents made of steel, Ti, Ni, or nitinol. It is found that the dose effect significantly depends on strut thickness, and it is strongly correlated to MSA. The MSA may be used to characterize the dose effect of a stent. Sample empiric equations to relate the dose perturbations to MSA for a given source, a stent material, and a strut thickness were derived. Conclusions: The dose perturbations due to the presence of metallic stents were found to be significant in IVBT for ISR. The dose effects of a stent can be estimated from its MSA based on derived empiric equations. The data presented are practically useful to consider the dose effects of stents in dose evaluation/treatment planning for using IVBT to treat ISR.
The politics of performance evaluation: Independent evaluation at the International Monetary Fund

How has the Fund institutionalized independent evaluation as a means of assessing its performance? This paper process-traces the contentious creation of the Fund’s Independent Evaluation Office (IEO). I use primary interviews conducted at the Fund headquarters in 2008–2010 and Fund archive documents dating back to the beginning of the debate over independent evaluation in 1992 to analyze the interaction of internal and external actors and interests that led finally to the creation of the IEO in 2001. I then comment on the ‘performance of the performance evaluator.’ I draw from a recent external evaluation of the IEO (Lissakers et al. 2006), as well as interviews and secondary sources, to identify enduring contestation over the IEO’s function and scope of authority and to discern how this has affected the ability of the IEO to inform and shape the Fund’s process and outcome performance. To this end, I discuss four issues currently facing the IEO: the need to establish both actual and perceived independence, the problems of ambiguous or non-existent metrics for assessing Fund performance, difficulties in balancing candor of evaluation reports with credibility in the eyes of multiple constituencies, and the challenges of fostering a culture of learning in the Fund.
Early experience with dobutamine stress testing and cardiac cine- tomographic imaging in the elderly: Antianginal effects of nifedipine-GITS

OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of nifedipine-GITS (GITS = gastrointestinal transport system) on angina and cardiovascular responses to stress-dobutamine infusion, we used ultrafast cine-computed tomography (CT) to assess regional wall motion, myocardial perfusion, and indices of ventricular filling and emptying. DESIGN Randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled efficacy study after an open-label dose titration phase. SETTING University of California, San Francisco. PATIENTS Elderly patients (> 60 years; n = 9:8 male, 1 female) with coronary artery disease by history and diagnostic treadmill or coronary angiography. INTERVENTION After a 3-week open-label dose-titration phase, eight subjects were randomized to receive either placebo or nifedipine-GITS at the highest tolerated dose for 2 weeks, followed by a crossover to the alternate therapy for 2 weeks. One declined because of singulus in the open-label period. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Symptomatic angina relief (frequency and nitroglycerin consumption), dobutamine stress responses (time to ischemia during dobutamine infusions, cardiac output, cardiac ejection fraction, ventricular segmental wall motion, and perfusion as measured by ultrafast cine-CT), and reported adverse effects. RESULTS When compared with placebo, nifedipine-GITS administration was associated with less frequent angina and nitroglycerin consumption (NS) and significantly decreased systolic blood pressure. Nifedipine-GITS administration also increased resting supine heart rates. Dobutamine infusions increased heart rate, cardiac output, cardiac ejection fraction, and stroke volume and induced angina symptoms. Neither double product at angina nor systolic indices of cardiac function in response to dobutamine differed between nifedipine-GITS and placebo, although heart rate responses were greater during nifedipine. A trend toward increased peak filling rates was seen during dobutamine stress in the nifedipine-administration period. In most subjects (6/8), perfusion and regional wall motion abnormalities were not visualized on regional wall motion abnormalities were not visualized on either rest or stress cine-CT studies. Edema without congestive heart failure occurred frequently during nifedipine-GITS administration. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that (1) dobutamine stress can be used to induce cardiac ischemia in elderly patients with coronary artery disease, (2) nifedipine-GITS provides symptomatic angina relief in elderly patients, (3) peripheral edema is frequent in elderly patients on nifedipine-GITS, and (4) ultrafast computed cine-tomography testing can be used to assess ventricular performance, but current methodology may not detect perfusion or wall motion abnormalities during angina.
OccK channels from Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibit diverse single-channel electrical signatures but conserved anion selectivity.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative bacterium that utilizes substrate-specific outer membrane (OM) proteins for the uptake of small, water-soluble nutrients employed in the growth and function of the cell. In this paper, we present for the first time a comprehensive single-channel examination of seven members of the OM carboxylate channel K (OccK) subfamily. Recent biochemical, functional, and structural characterization of the OccK proteins revealed their common features, such as a closely related, monomeric, 18-stranded β-barrel conformation with a kidney-shaped transmembrane pore and the presence of a basic ladder within the channel lumen. Here, we report that the OccK proteins exhibited fairly distinct unitary conductance values, in a much broader range than previously expected, which includes low (∼40–100 pS) and medium (∼100–380 pS) conductance. These proteins showed diverse single-channel dynamics of current gating transitions, revealing one-open substate (OccK3), two-open substate (OccK4–Occ...
Protein diffusion coefficient measurements by laminar flow analysis: method and applications.

Abstract Laminar flow in an open tube leads to solute band spreading. This process is opposed by radial diffusion. The translational diffusion coefficient of a solute can be calculated from the band dispersion, tube length, and flow rate. No calibration is necessary. A simple apparatus was used to measure the diffusion coefficients of several small solutes and 18 proteins. Most results were within ±10% of literature values. Each determination required 7–90 min, depending on the magnitude of the diffusion coefficient. The amount of protein needed was approximately 25 μg. The diffusion coefficient data were useful for the estimation of molecular weights.
Effect of Communications Headset, Hearing Ability, Flight Workload, and Communications Signal Quality on Pilot Performance in an Army Black Hawk Helicopter Simulator

Cockpit noise, flight workload, and hearing loss all likely influence U.S. Army pilot performance; however, hearing loss flight waiver decisions are largely based on audiometric evaluation results. Twenty Army helicopter pilots (two hearing level groups) participated in this study. The pilots flew three flights in a full motion-base Black Hawk helicopter simulator, each involving a different headset configuration as well as varying flight workload levels and varying communication signal quality in a counterbalanced ordering. Objective flight performance parameters of heading, altitude, and airspeed deviation and air traffic control (ATC) command readbacks and subjective measures of workload and situation awareness were measured. Results support a conclusion that factors other than hearing thresholds and speech intelligibility in a quiet environment should be considered when evaluating Army helicopter pilots' flight safety with regard to hearing sensitivity. Results also support a recommendation that heari...
Autonomous Airborne Geomagnetic Surveying and Target Identiflcation

This work considers algorithms for maritime search and surveillance missions. Search and identiflcation of magnetic anomalies are evaluated. A combination of a particle fllter and a neural network are used to identify and classify anomalies. Communication among vehicles is assumed to update a centralized occupancy based map which represents a discretized belief of target locations. Control decisions are based on a nearest neighbor search of the surrounding cells of the occupancy map. Simulation is performed using a planar kinematic model and actual aeromagnetic data.
Antagonism of 2–5 A-mediated inhibition of protein synthesis in intact cells by 2',5'-(pA)3

Abstract In vitro studies have shown that the translational inhibitory activity of 2–5 A can be blocked by the oligoribonucleotide 2',5'-(pA) 3 . We have examined the effect of simultaneous introduction of inhibitor and antagonist into intact mouse cells using calcium phosphate coprecipitation. Upon introduction of 10 −4 M 2',5'-(pA) 3 and 10 −6 M 2–5 A, inhibition of protein synthesis was prevented. Efficiency of calcium phosphate precipitation of 2–5 A in the presence or absence of 2',5'-(pA) 3 was comparable. Introduction of 2',5'-(pA) 3 analogs showed that nucleotides which do not bind well to the 2–5 A dependent endonuclease do not prevent 2–5 A inhibitory activity. Thus, 2',5'-(pA) 3 functions as an antagonist of 2–5 A in vivo.
Model ecosystem determination of the metabolic and environmental fate of tetrachloro-DDT

A potential hazardous waste site investigation was conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency to determine whether ground water, surface water, or area soils and sediments were contaminated as a result of waster water discharges or improper solid waste disposal practices of a pesticide manufacturer. One of the compounds discharged into the environment was 1,1,1,2-tetrachloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane, commonly referred to as tetrachloro-DDT. Unlike a great many of the DDT analogs, tetrachloro-DDT has come under only limited scrutiny, mainly because it was dismissed as having poor insecticidal properties relative to DDT and other analogs. Its metabolism in ingesting organisms, and degradative pathways in the environment have consequently been left uncertain. This model ecosystem study was undertaken to examine the unanswered questions concerning the metabolic and environmental fate of tetrachloro-DDT. The relevance of this study pertains to disposal practices of pesticide manufacturers who use tetrachloro-DDT as a product precursor.
The effect of aerodynamic handlebars on oxygen consumption while cycling at a constant speed

In this study, the oxygen consumption (VO2) of bicycling was measured at a fixed speed (40 km.h-1), on level terrain, with normal and aerodynamic handlebars using a Douglas bag collection system. Eleven elite (USCF category 1 or 2) men cyclists age 24 to 40 years (mean = 28.5, SD +/- 4.6) performed four consecutive (two with each bar in alternating order) steady state rides at 40 km.h-1 over a 4 km flat course (same direction each trial). Expired gases were collected in a 1501 Douglas bag attached to a following vehicle during the last 45 s (approx. 0.5 km) of each trial. A repeated measures analysis of variance revealed a significant (p < 0.02) handlebar effect. Specifically, VO2 was 2% lower under the aerodynamic handlebar treatment (mean = 4.26, SD +/- 0.36 l.min-1) when compared with that of the normal handlebar treatment (mean = 4.34, SD +/- 0.35 l.min-1). The results of this study demonstrate that the reported aerodynamic advantage of the aerodynamic handlebars produces a small but significant reduction in the VO2 of bicycling at 40 km.h-1.
Simple and rapid extraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons collected on polyurethane foam adsorbent

Abstract A single-pass flow through extraction (FTE) method for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that have been collected on poly-ether type polyurethane foam (PUF) is described and demonstrated. The method is based on the principles of trace enrichment and solid-phase extraction where the analyte of interest is collected or concentrated on the expanded PUF matrix. Following collection, the PUF is compressed to reduce the solvent requirement and a single-pass gravity fed mobile-phase extraction is used to remove the analyte. Two extraction mobile phases were tested (dichloromethane, DCM and a 10% (V:V) mixture of acetone in hexane, AH). We obtained quantitative recoveries of 18 PAHs from 115 cm 3 PUF plugs with less than 4 ml of DCM or 6 ml of AH. Average standard recoveries of 18 spiked PAHs were 97% and 104% for the DCM and the AH extractions, respectively. The semi-volatile fraction of PAHs in an environmental sample of a complex mixture (diesel exhaust) were also quantitatively extracted using the FTE method. Finally, the FTE method was used to extract samples collected from an exposure chamber that was designed to measure the transfer of semi-volatile atmospheric pollutants into vegetation. Total variance reported as percent relative standard deviation in the measured steady-state atmospheric concentrations of pyrene, fluoranthene, anthracene and phenanthrene were 3.4, 10.5, 8.5 and 4.4%, respectively, thus demonstrating the excellent precision of the method. The FTE method is simple, fast and effective for extracting PAH that has been collected on PUF adsorbent.
Nuclear data sheets for A = 81

Abstract Level schemes and decay characteristics are presented for all nuclei with mass number 81. Experimental data, adopted values, comparisons with theory, and arguments for spin and parity assignments are given. The adopted level schemes and decay properties are based on data received before July 1, 1974.
Molecular characterization of the trithorax gene, a positive regulator of homeotic gene expression in Drosophila

The Drosophila gene trithorax (trx) is required for the normal expression of a number of the homeotic genes in the bithorax complex (BX-C) and the Antennapedia complex (ANT-C). Flies homozygous for trx mutations exhibit segmental identity transformations similar to those caused by loss-of-function mutations in the homeotic genes Sex combs reduced (Scr), Ultrabithorax (Ubx), abdominal-A (abd-A), and Abdominal-B (Abd-B). We present a molecular characterization of the trx locus and show that it is necessary for normal levels of Antennapedia (Antp), Ubx, and abd-A protein accumulation. Interestingly, the loss of trx function differentially affects the expression these proteins; Ubx protein levels are greatly reduced, abd-A protein levels are reduced to a lesser extent, and Antp protein levels are only slightly reduced. P-element mediated transformation using 34 kb of genomic DNA containing the 25 kb trx transcription unit identifies all sequences necessary for normal trx function and limits the 5' and 3' flanking sequences that could be used in a regulatory capacity to relatively small regions. The primary transcription unit is differentially spliced to produce two large transcripts of 12 and 15 kb that have different developmental profiles.
OPN08-06: On the Throughput-Cost Tradeoff of Multi-Tiered Optical Network Architectures

In this work, we conduct a throughput-cost study of several optical network architectures: optical flow switching (OFS), tell-and-go (TaG), electronic packet switching (EPS), and generalized multiprotocol label switching (GMPLS). The simple, multi-tiered optical network that we consider comprises two groups of users, each in a distinct metropolitan-area network (MAN), which wish to communicate over a wide-area network (WAN). Our network cost model focuses on initial capital expenditure: transceiver, switching, routing, and amplification costs. Our results indicate that: OFS is the most scalable architecture of all, in that it is most cost-efficient when the average user data rate is high and the number of users in the network is large; EPS is most sensible when the product of the number of users and the average user data rate is low; the GMPLS architecture, which is conceptually intermediate to EPS and OFS, is optimal when the product of the number of users and the average user data rate is moderate; and, finally, there does not exist an optimal regime for TaG.
A visual approach to improve clustering based on cluster ensembles

Iterative clustering (e.g. K-Means, EM) is one of the most commonly used clustering methods, which attempts to iteratively find a local optimum starting from an initial condition, including initial centroids and initial number of clusters. For iterative clustering, research has shown that the initial conditions are crucial to clustering quality and running time of a clustering computation. Using a novel visualization tool, CComViz (Cluster Comparison Visualization), we present an innovative approach to refine the initial centroids and the number of clusters by visually analyzing multiple clustering results generated by different clustering algorithms. As an example, we apply our new approach to a gene expression case study for generating a better and converging clustering. The proposed approach is considered to be an extension to cluster ensembles since the original data sources are reused, while in classic cluster ensembles they are not.
A hybrid method for combining quasi-static and full-wave techniques for electromagnetic scattering problems

Electromagnetic scattering problems containing subregions which are electrically small but geometrically complex are examined. By utilizing quasi-static methods for the small regions, full-wave methods in the remaining region, and determining necessary coupling relations between the small regions and the overall geometry, a considerable improvement in numerical efficiency is realized. The particular method developed here is valid for quasi-static regions in which magnetic induction can be ignored. Results using the proposed method have been obtained for a pair of closely spaced collinear wires. A comparison of these results with the wire antenna code, MININEC, showed excellent agreement. >
New Photointermediates in the Two Photon Signaling Pathway of Sensory Rhodopsin-I†

Sensory rhodopsin-I (SRI) functions as a color discriminating receptor in halobacterial phototaxis. SRI exists in the membrane as a molecular complex with a signal transducer protein. Excitation of its thermally stable form, SRI587, generates a long-lived photointermediate of its photocycle, S373, and an attractant phototactic response. S373 decays thermally in a few seconds into SRI587. However, when S373 is excited by UV−blue light, it photoconverts into SRI587 in less than a second, generating a repellent phototactic response. Only one intermediate of this back-photoreaction, Sb510, is known. We studied the back-photoreaction in both native SRI and its transducer free form fSRI by measuring laser flash induced absorption changes of S373 photoproducts from 100 ns to 1 s in the 350−750 nm range. Using global exponential fitting, we determined the spectra and kinetics of the photointermediates. S373 and fS373 when pumped with 355 nm laser light generate in less than 100 ns two intermediate species: a pre...
Mechanical Response of Single Biological Cells to Externally Applied Forces

We present an experimental technique capable of applying and measuring very small forces (nanoNewtons) on live biological cells. The technique is based on combing microfabricated molded elastomeric microneedles, and substrate deformation to actively apply loads on single cells. By using fluorescence and differential interference contrast imaging we can quantitatively study the response of biological cells to force exerted on it via the extra cellular matrix. Bovine Aortic Endothelial Cells were cultured on the micropillars and strained in-vitro to demonstrate the experimental technique.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
A magic-angle spinning system for bullet-type rotors in electromagnets

Abstract A simple, but effective, magic-angle spinning system is described for electromagnet spectrometers, based on a bullet-shaped rotor and an Andrew-type stator. Major advantages are achieved with this design, and the remaining disadvantages have been minimized. Reliable spinning in the 1.5 to 3.5-kHz range is achieved with the design that is described. Details of the electronic and mechanical design of the probe are presented.
Growth and characterization of silicon ribbons produced by a capillary action shaping technique

Silicon ribbons 0.5 mm in thickness were grown by a capillary action shaping technique using graphite capillary dies. Ribbons up to 1.3 m in length and 12 mm in width were obtained. Crystallographic ribbon perfection was studied through X-ray topography. MOS structures were used to measure minority carrier lifetimes. Unintentionally doped ribbons were approximately 10 Ωcm and p-type. Ribbons of high perfection had lifetime values comparable to those measured on zero dislocation density Czochralski-grown substrates, i.e. greater than 100 μs. Siliziumbander von 0,5 mm Dicke wurden mit Hilfe eines Graphitstempels, der eine Kapillare enthielt, und durch Anwendung einer Kristallziehtechnik, die auf der Kapillarwirkung beruht, hergestellt. Es wurden 1,3 m lange und 12 mm breite Siliziumbander gezogen. Die kristallographische Perfektion der Bander wurde durch Rontgentopographie untersucht. Die Minoritatstragerlebensdauer in den Siliziumbandern wurde mit Hilfe von MOS-Strukturen gemessen. Unabsichtlich dotierte Bander hatten einen Widerstand von 10 Ωcm und waren p-dotiert. Bander mit guter Perfektion ergaben fur die Lebensdauer Werte von 100 μs und besser. Diese Daten sind vergleichbar mit Werten die man an guten Czochralskigezogenen Siliziumscheiben erhalt.
Special applications of solvent-free solid support scintillation systems in the measurement of beta emitters

Abstract A solvent-free scintillation medium (Ready Cap TM — Beckman) for nonvolatile microvolume samples is now available for use in liquid scintillation counters (LSC). Although its applications have limitations, it has advantages over traditional solvents by being a limited fire hazard, convenient to use, and having lower disposal costs. The spectral light output from this scintillator is shifted versus that of liquid scintillators, and instrument settings may need to be adjusted from normal energy presets. This solid support system permits the assay of beta emitters in whole blood without extremes of sample preparation usually needed.
Genetically Engineered and Irradiated Foods - Attitudes Held by Dietitians

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To identify prevalent attitudes and current knowledge held by registered dietitians toward genetically engineered and irradiated foods Attitudes and knowledge toward genetically engineered and irradiated foods held by registered dietitians (RDs) in Iowa (N = 767) were assessed through a mail questionnaire. Of the 275 returned surveys, 269 (35.1%) were complete and usable for statistical analysis. The majority of respondents were female (98%) with almost two-thirds between 30 and 49 years of age. Over half of respondents had completed some graduate work. Respondents indicated sources most often used to learn information about new food technologies were newspapers, broadcasting, and professional meetings. Mean ratings of agreement to 30 attitude statements ranged from 2.35 (5 = strongly agree) for "the use of genetic modification to change animals should be strictly regulated," to 4.28 for "I want to know more about genetically engineered foods." A mean rating of 3.36 for all 30 statements about genetically engineered foods was calculated. RDs expressed an interest in learning more about irradiated foods (M = 4.20), yet indicated "More research needs to be done on irradiation before it is used commercially by food processors" (M = 3.03). RDs supported The American Dietetic Association's (ADA) position papers on genetically engineered and irradiated foods, with respective mean ratings of 3.59 and 3.71. Just 4 of 15 knowledge statements about genetically engineered foods were answered correctly by 75% or more of the RDs, although over 50% answered 11 of the statements correctly. Respondents were most knowledgeable about practical applications of genetic modification of foods (90.3%), while some uncertainty was indicated with close to one-third of respondents selecting the "unsure" option for eight knowledge statements. Only 2 of 15 knowledge statements about food irradiation were answered correctly by 75% or more of RDs, although over 50% selected the correct response to 7 items. Results from this study showed RDs were least knowledgeable about products approved for treatment with irradiation and labeling requirements for service of irradiated foods. Findings from this study indicated the need for increased education to nutrition professionals about new food technologies of genetic engineering and irradiation.