Showing papers by "Oklahoma State University–Stillwater published in 1995"

Neural network design

Abstract: This book, by the authors of the Neural Network Toolbox for MATLAB, provides a clear and detailed coverage of fundamental neural network architectures and learning rules. In it, the authors emphasize a coherent presentation of the principal neural networks, methods for training them and their applications to practical problems. Features Extensive coverage of training methods for both feedforward networks (including multilayer and radial basis networks) and recurrent networks. In addition to conjugate gradient and Levenberg-Marquardt variations of the backpropagation algorithm, the text also covers Bayesian regularization and early stopping, which ensure the generalization ability of trained networks. Associative and competitive networks, including feature maps and learning vector quantization, are explained with simple building blocks. A chapter of practical training tips for function approximation, pattern recognition, clustering and prediction, along with five chapters presenting detailed real-world case studies. Detailed examples and numerous solved problems. Slides and comprehensive demonstration software can be downloaded from hagan.okstate.edu/nnd.html.

Factors Influencing Voluntary Annual Report Disclosures By U.S., U.K. and Continental European Multinational Corporations

Abstract: This study examines factors influencing the voluntary disclosures of three types of information (strategic, nonfinancial, financial) contained in the annual reports of MNCs from the U.S., U.K. and Continental Europe. While company size, country/region, listing status, and, to a lesser extent, industry are the most important factors explaining voluntary disclosures overall, the importance of the factors varies by information type.

Water Quality Data: Analysis and Interpretation

Abstract: Introduction Geochemical Spheres Industrial Raw Materials Industrial Production Geochemical Investigations Presentation of Material in this Book Review of Basic Chemistry and Geology Introduction to Atomic Structure Oxidation Numbers Concentration Units Rocks and Minerals Rock-Water Interactions Exercises Major Inorganic Constituents of Water Introduction Weathering Balancing Weathering Equations Introduction to Water Quality Exercises Water Quality Interpretation Introduction Sampling Laboratory Sample Analysis Analysis Reliability Interpretation of Water Quality Data Graphical Methods Groundwater Reactions Mass-Balance Modeling Brine Contamination Geochemical Equilibrium Modeling Introduction Chemical Thermodynamics Equilibrium Constant (K) Activity (a) Speciation Mineral Saturation Index (SI) Reduction/Oxidation (Redox) Reactions Exercises Geochemical Environments Introduction Factors Influencing the Mobility of Trace Elements Exercises Organic Chemistry Nomenclature Introduction Bonding of Organic Compounds Naming Organic Compounds Hydrocarbons Halogenated Organic Compounds Oxygen Functional Groups Organic Nitrogen Compounds Organic Compounds Containing Sulfur Organic Phosphorus Compounds Complex Nomenclature Exercises Ecosystem Partitioning and Solute Transport Introduction Ecosystem Partitioning Groundwater Flow Models Pollutant Degradation Summary Exercises Computer Programs Introduction MFLASH OFCARD WATEVAL WATEQ4F ECOPLUS

The Oklahoma Mesonet: A Technical Overview

Abstract: The Oklahoma mesonet is a joint project of Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma. It is an automated network of 108 stations covering the state of Oklahoma. Each station measures air temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed and direction, rainfall, solar radiation, and soil temperatures. Each station transmits a data message every 15 min via a radio link to the nearest terminal of the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Telecommunications System that relays it to a central site in Norman, Oklahoma. The data message comprises three 5-min averages of most data (and one 15-min average of soil temperatures). The central site ingests the data, runs some quality assurance tests, archives the data, and disseminates it in real time to a broad community of users, primarily through a computerized bulletin board system. This manuscript provides a technical description of the Oklahoma mesonet including a complete description of the instrumentation. Sensor inaccuracy, resolution, height ...

On the machining of fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) composite laminates

Abstract: With the increasing use of fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) composites outside the defense, space and aerospace industries, namely, civilian industries, machining of these materials is assuming a significant role. Unit cost rather than solely performance at any cost will be the consideration for the implementation of FRP composites to consumer industries. The current knowledge of machining FRP composites, unfortunately, is inadequate for its optimum utilization in many applications. This paper presents some observations made on the orthogonal machining of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastic (UD-CFRP) laminates with different fiber orientations. Iosipescu shear test was adopted to evaluate the inplane shear strength of varied fiber angle test specimens. A model for predicting the cutting forces and the dependence of cutting direction on machinability requirements is presented.

Unconventional cryptographic keying variable management

Abstract: We present three unconventional approaches to keying variable management. The first approach is based on using a public key cryptosystem (PKC) that is breakable in short, but on average less, time than it takes to set up an ultrawide bandwidth modem that is then used to transport a keying variable for a classical cryptosystem. The second concept proposes using the characteristics of an urban UHF radio channel, determined by mutual sounding, as the cryptovariable. The third concept encourages research into ill-conditioned problems as potentially fruitful ground for PKCs not based on finite field arithmetic. >

Tick salivary gland physiology

Abstract: The multifunctional, morphologically complex salivary glands are essential to the biological success of ticks and are intricately involved in the transmission of pathogens. They are innervated, and there is convincing evidence that dopamine is a neurotransmitter at the neuroeffector junction controlling fluid secretion. As feeding progresses, the rate of salivary fluid secretion increases greatly, enabling the ixodid tick to concentrate the bloodmeal by returning excess water and ions to the host. Saliva in feeding ticks is rich in bioactive components and exhibits a range of pharmacological properties. Factors identified in saliva or salivary glands include cement to help anchor the mouthparts to the host, various enzymes and inhibitors, histamine agonists and antagonists, prostaglandins, antihemostatic factors, and immuno-modulating factors. A secretion from the salivary glands allows ticks to absorb water from the air during the lengthy periods off their hosts. The physiology of this remarkable organ provides a striking example of strategies that have evolved to meet the challenge of a unique parasitic life style.

Experimental transmission of Ehrlichia chaffeensis (Rickettsiales: Ehrlichieae) among white-tailed deer by Amblyomma americanum (Acari: Ixodidae)

Abstract: Ehrlichia chaffeensis Anderson, Dawson & Wilson, causative agent of human (predominantly monocytic) ehrlichiosis, was successfully transmitted experimentally by Amblyomma americanum (L.) to white-tailed deer, Odocoileus virginianus (Zimmerman). Deer were needle-exposed intravenously to E. chaffeensis in tissue-culture canine macrophage (DH82) cells, and 11 d later were exposed to laboratory-reared A. americanum larvae, nymphs, and adults for acquisition feeding. Three months after this feeding, naive deer and dogs were exposed to recently molted nymphs and adults. Attempted reisolation of the pathogen by way of tissue culture was successful from one needle-exposed deer but not from the tick-exposed deer or dogs. Based on serologic evidence and polymerase chain reaction data, both nymphal and adult ticks transmitted E. chaffeensis to naive deer but not to dogs.

Glucose Oxidase as an Analytical Reagent

Abstract: Glucose oxidase (EC 1.1.3.4) is the most widly employed enzyme as analytical reagent. This is the result of (1) its utility in the determination of glucose, an analyte of wide analytical interest, and (2) its relatively low cost and good stability that make the glucose/glucose oxidase system a very convenient model for method development (particularly in the area of biosensors). This review discusses in detail enzyme structure, biocatalysis, enzymes as analytical reagents, properties of glucose oxidase (including a historical account), and the use of glucose oxidase as an analytical reagent in homogeneous systems as well as an immobilized reagent.

Effects of insulin-like growth factor I and insulin on proliferation and on basal and luteinizing hormone-induced steroidogenesis of bovine thecal cells: involvement of glucose and receptors for insulin-like growth factor I and luteinizing hormone.

Abstract: The objective of the present study was to determine the effects of IGF-I and insulin on cell proliferation, LH receptors, and basal and LH-induced progesterone and androstenedione production by bovine thecal cells. Cells from large (> or = 8mm) bovine follicles were cultured for 1 or 2 d in medium containing 10% fetal calf serum (FCS) and treated for 1 or 2 d in serum-free medium with IGF-I, insulin, and(or) LH. Treatment with 30 and 100 ng/mL of IGF-I for 1 or 2 d increased thecal cell numbers in the absence of LH regardless of whether treatments were initiated after 1 or 2 d of exposure to 10% FCS. Co-treatment with LH reduced the stimulatory effect of IGF-I on thecal cell numbers. Insulin at 10 and 100 ng/mL increased cell numbers in the presence of LH. Both IGF-I and insulin were ineffective at stimulating thecal cell progesterone or androstenedione production in the absence of LH. However, IGF-I and insulin increased (P .10) on the numbers of IGF-I binding sites on thecal cells but increased (P < .05) androstenedione production. Treatment with 10 and 100 ng/mL IGF-I increased (P <.01) numbers of LH/hCG binding sites. These results indicate that IGF-I and insulin may each play a significant role in thecal cell mitogenesis and LH-induced thecal cell steroidogenesis during follicular development in cattle and that glucose enhances these effects. Furthermore, the synergism between IGF-I and LH on increasing steroidogenesis does not seem to be mediated through increased binding sites for IGF-I in bovine thecal cells but rather, in part, through increased binding sites for LH.

Far-infrared terahertz time-domain spectroscopy of flames.

Abstract: We present what is to our knowledge the first comprehensive far-infrared absorption measurement of flames. These measurements, covering the region of 7–88 wave numbers (0.2–2.65 THz) are only now made possible by the technique of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. We observe a large number of absorption lines— including those of water, CH, and NH3—in a stationary, premixed, propane–air flame. The absorption strength permits the determination of species concentration along the beam path. The flame temperature is determined by comparison of the relative strengths of the water vapor lines.

Forums for management information systems scholars

Abstract: hat is " scholarly nzsearch " and which pub& cation outlets are considered 'best " ? In any academic discipline, the answers to these questions ate sought by:. Selection, promotion, and tenure committees as they seek to secure and retain the best possible individuals for thar faculty [5,151; l Researchers, as they seek to determme appropriate outlets for their research findings [5,6, 151; l Individuals seelung to identify the significant research streams in an academxc disciphne [25]; l Journal editors and assoaates as they seek to raise the quality of their journal to the highest possible l&l; I l The academic discipline in question as it seeks to gain an identity of its own, especially if it is a relatively young field [ 11, 251; l Students of the discipline as they seek to gain an understanding of what the discipline encompasses [6, 11,251; and l Librarians as they seek to wisely invest their ever-decreasing funds. Borrowing from the vernacular of consumer behavior theory, these constituents all have an interest in the " consumption " of knowledge. As with any consumption decision, limited resources dictaw that decisions be made concerning which " products " to consume. Thus, in the academic setting, this consumption decision concerns determining the bestjournals to further the discipline [15]. From the demand perspective, consumers of knowledge (e.g., researchers, individuals interested in the field, libraries) wish to invest their time and money economically, consuming the best material possible. On the supply side, producers of knowledge (e.g., researchers,journal editors, associates) wish to produce material that best meets consumer demand. Thus, many constituents have a definite interest in the determination of the relevance of publication outlets in a particular discipline. This study was undertaken to determine the important publishing journals and/or other outlets for management information systems (MIS) faculty. The MIS faculty were viewed as expert consumers of MIS research. In particular, three dimensions of each expert's background were considered important: the expert's education, role orientation, and academic lifestyle. The impact of these dimensions was studied to determine their influence on MIS faculty perception of publishing journals. Finally, presenting the results within an analytically sound framework will permit future researchers in MIS forums to use this study's model to better present their findings. Previous pertinent research done on potential MIS research forums and factors influencing their results are assessed and discussed in the following subsections. In 1983, Hamilton and …

A Review of Livestock Grazing and Wheat Grain Yield: Boom or Bust?

Abstract: Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown as a dual-purpose crop is a unique and economically important resource, especially in the southern Great Plains. Since the last major review of grazing effects on grain yield, in 1956 wheat cultivars have been developed that may affect the productivity of the grazing-grain enterprise. Thus, we decided to review current research on grazing winter wheat and the effects on grain yield in light of earlier information. During a year of favorable precipitation and adequate to excess soil fertility, tall winter wheat cultivars grazed prior to jointing experienced increased grain yield relative to nongrazed wheat, because of reduced lodging. Current research suggests that the grain yield of semidwarf wheat cultivars is more sensitive to forage removal than for tall cultivars. Grazing termination dates necessary to prevent grain yield reduction of semidwarf cultivars also appear to be much earlier than for taller wheat cultivars. The reason for the difference in grazing tolerance is not clear; however, research suggests that semidwarf cultivars require maximum leaf area at anthesis for maximum grain yield. Tall wheat cultivars are not affected in the same manner, and decreased leaf area due to later grazing does not reduce grain yield of taller wheat cultivars to the same extent as for the semidwarf cultivars. Thus, taller wheat cultivars have the potential for extending the grazing period for livestock producers while producing grain yield similar to that of semidwarf wheat cultivars (which generally produce more grain in a nongrazed situation)

Sex identification in mammals with polymerase chain reaction and its use to examine sex effects on diameter of day-10 or -11 pig embryos.

Abstract: The objectives of this study were to develop a rapid method for sex determination for several mammalian species using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and to use this method to determine whether there is a significant developmental difference in spherical diameter between male and female d-10 or -11 porcine embryos. The PCR system was developed and verified using genomic DNA from pigs of known sex, then it was tested with genomic DNA from several other mammalian species. Sex is determined by amplification of two genes in a single reaction. The presence or absence of a region of the Sry (sex-determining region Y) gene determines sex, and amplification of the Zfy (male) or Zfx (female) genes acts as a positive control for PCR. Sex determination was successful for all animals tested, including pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, llamas, horses, humans, baboons, dogs, cats, rats, and mice. A total of 209 embryos were collected from 21 crossbred gilts on d 10 or 11 of gestation, and their diameters were measured. No significant difference in embryo diameter was detected between male and female embryos, indicating that sexual dimorphism in embryonic growth in pigs does not occur before the period of rapid embryo elongation. The present sexing technique using PCR is rapid (approximately 6 h from receipt of embryos to results), and it may be useful for examining the effects of sex on any trait of interest in early porcine embryos and embryos from several other mammals.

Solubilization and partial characterization of extensin fragments from cell walls of cotton suspension cultures. Evidence for a covalent cross-link between extensin and pectin

Abstract: Extensin, a major hydroxyproline (Hyp)-rich glycoprotein in walls of cultured cells of dicotyledonous plants, is very difficult to solubilize. To learn about the nature of the insolubilization, we have tested the ability of a variety of selective hydrolytic methods, and combinations of them, to liberate extensin or fragments of extensin from suspension-culture cell walls. After the complete deglycosylation of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) walls, trypsinization solubilized 80% of the Hyp. The sequences of three abundant peptides were: (a) serine-Hyp-Hyp-Hyp-Hyp-Hyp-Hyp-serine-Hyp-Hyp-lysine, (b) serine-Hyp-Hyp-Hyp-Hyp-valine-lysine, and (c) serine-Hyp-Hyp-serine-alanine-Hyp-lysine. After a sequential treatment of walls with endopolygalacturonase, cellulase, -73 degrees C anhydrous hydrogen fluoride solvolysis, and ammonium bicarbonate extraction, only sugars indicative of rhamnogalacturonan I and protein remained insoluble. Trypsin treatment of this residue liberated 50% of the Hyp. A significant proportion of rhamnogalacturonan-associated sugars co-solubilized and co-purified along with the extensin fragments following the trypsinization. By sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis and gel filtration, the glycopeptides fell into two classes. One class contained distinctly sized molecules with relative molecular weights in the range of 4,000 to 24,000. The other class did not enter the resolving gel and was hetero-disperse. After complete deglycosylation by a 0 degrees C anhydrous hydrogen fluoride treatment, the first class was little affected in its electrophoretic mobility, whereas the larger heterogeneous material mostly entered the separating gel. After further trypsinization of the deglycosylated peptides and analysis by capillary zone electrophoresis, the peptides in both size classes were shown to contain the sequences described above. From our observations we suggest that cotton extensin becomes insolubilized into cell walls in part by pectin-protein cross-links in addition to the protein-protein (or protein-phenolic-protein) cross-links that have been repeatedly suggested.

Hairpin properties of single-stranded DNA containing a GC-rich triplet repeat: (CTG) 15

Abstract: Although triplet repeat DNA sequences are scattered throughout the human genome, their biological function remains obscure. To aid in correlating potential structures of these nucleic acids with their function, we propose their classification based on the presence or absence of a palindromic dinucleotide within the triplet, the G + C content, and the presence or absence of a homopolymer. Five classes of double-stranded (ds) triplet repeats are distinguished. Class I repeats, which are defined by the presence of a GC or CG palindrome, have the lowest base stacking energies, exhibit the lowest rates of slippage synthesis [Schlotterer and Tautz (1992) Nucleic Acids Res., 20, 211] and are uniquely associated with triplet repeat expansion diseases. The six single-stranded (ss) triplet repeats within Class I also have the potential to form hairpin structures, as determined by energy minimization. To explore the possibility of hairpin formation by ss Class I triplet repeats, studies were performed with a ss oligonucleotide containing 15 prototypic CTG repeats [ss (CTG)15]. Electrophoretic, P1 nuclease and KMnO4 oxidation data demonstrate that ss (CTG)15 forms a hairpin containing base paired and/or stacked thymines in the stem. Potential functions of hairpins containing Class I triplet repeats are discussed with respect to protein translation and mRNA splicing. Further, potential roles of hairpin structures in triplet repeat expansion events are discussed.

Effect of time on feed on performance of feedlot steers, carcass characteristics, and tenderness and composition of longissimus muscles

Abstract: Two hundred fifty-six British and Continental crossbred yearling steers (329 kg initially) were fed to study the effect of time on feed on live performance, carcass characteristics, tissue composition, and steak tenderness. Steers were divided into four slaughter groups and fed for either 105, 119, 133, or 147 d. Daily gains (carcass weight-adjusted basis) increased in a quadratic manner (P < .05; maximum at 119 d), whereas feed intake tended to increase linearly (P < .08) as cattle were fed longer. Feed conversion (carcass weight-adjusted basis) for steers fed 119 d was superior to that of steers fed for 147 d. Carcass weight, s.c. fat thickness, kidney, pelvic, and heart fat, overall carcass maturity, and yield grade increased linearly (P < .01) with time on feed. Marbling score and the percentage of cattle grading U.S. Choice increased (linearly; P < .01) with time on feed but at a decreasing rate (quadratic; P < .05). Cholesterol and total lipid concentrations in longissimus muscle increased linearly (P < .01) as time on feed increased, whereas the percentage of protein and moisture tended to decrease linearly (P < .10 and P < .01). Tenderness of ribeye steaks tended to increase linearly (P < .07) with time on feed, primarily due to a linear decrease (P < .03) in the percentage of steaks considered tough (shear force above 4.50 kg). Performance and carcass characteristics indicate that a feedlot finishing period of 119 to 133 d is ideal for British Continental crossbred yearling steers (329 kg).

Consumers' Conceptualization of Apparel Attributes

Abstract: The purpose of this research was to a) generate a composite list of apparel attributes, b) arrange the attributes in conceptual categories and dimensional levels, and c) examine the attributes in ways that are useful to different types of retailers. Five focus group interviews were conducted with 31 female consumers in four midwestern towns. The focus groups were designed in a three part format to parallel some of the evaluation processes in different types of retail settings. Four conceptual themes and 79 attributes emerged based on the content of the data. The themes were physical appearance, physical performance, expressive, and extrinsic. Themes varied in the unidimensional and multidimensional nature of their attributes. Saliency of the attributes varied in the three parts of discussion which has implications for different types of retailers. Participants were concerned about physical appearance and expressive response when viewing catalog photographs and narrative copy. Concern heightened for physic...