Predicting the timing and potential of the spring emergence of overwintered populations of Heliothis spp

The current state of knowledge dealing with the prediction of the overwintering population and spring emergence of Heliothis spp., a serious pest of numerous crops is surveyed. Current literature is reviewed in detail. Temperature and day length are the primary factors which program H. spp. larva for possible diapause. Although studies on the interaction of temperature and day length are reported, the complete diapause induction process is not identified sufficiently to allow accurate prediction of diapause timing. Mortality during diapause is reported as highly variable. The factors causing mortality are identified, but only a few are quantified. The spring emergence of overwintering H. spp. adults and mathematical models which predict the timing of emergence are reviewed. Timing predictions compare favorably to observed field data; however, prediction of actual numbers of emerging moths is not possible. The potential for use of spring emergence predictions in pest management applications, as an early warning of potential crop damage, are excellent. Research requirements to develop such an early warning system are discussed

VMIFF - Visualization metrics for the identification of file fragments

Visualization of complex data, such as a file system or file, allows a forensic analyst or reverse engineer to rapidly locate areas of interest amidst a large quantity of data. While visualization provides a promising form of analysis, is the subject of much skepticism, as human interaction is required in order for this method to be successful. As a result of this, visualization methods face two major obstacles: tediousness and time. As our contribution, we propose a unique method of graphing visual information into a measurable format suitable for use with machine learning algorithms. This method will still utilize the visual layout of the data but streamline this form into one that can be rapidly processed by a machine. In this work we examine existing methods of file fragment analysis, determine how to apply visualization to this analysis, and transform this visual data into a measurable format for machine leaning algorithms using our tool called VMIFF (Visualization Metrics for the Identification of File Fragments). In its breadth, this work aims to demonstrate that such transformations will still yield meaningful results

Effect of Emamectin Benzoate on Mortality, Proboscis Extension, Gustation and Reproduction of the Corn Earworm, Helicoverpa zea

Newly emerged corn earworm adults, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) require a carbohydrate source from plant or other exudates and nectars for dispersal and reproduction. Adults actively seek and forage at feeding sites upon eclosion in the habitat of the larval host plant or during dispersal to, or colonization of, a suitable reproductive habitat. This nocturnal behavior of H. zea has potential for exploitation as a pest management strategy for suppression using an adult feeding approach. This approach entails the use of a feeding attractant and stimulant in combination with a toxicant that when ingested by the adult will either reduce fecundity/fertility at sub-lethal dosages or kill the adult. The intent of this study was to assess reproductive inhibition and toxicity of emamectin benzoate on H. zea when ingested by the adults when mixed in ppm active ingredient (wt:vol) with 2.5 M sucrose as a feeding stimulant. Because the mixture has to be ingested to function, the effect of emamectin benzoate was also evaluated at sub-lethal and lethal concentrations on proboscis extension and gustatory response of H. zea in the laboratory. Feral males captured in sex pheromone-baited traps in the field were used for toxicity evaluations because they were readily available and were more representative of the field populations than laboratory-reared adults. Laboratory-reared female moths were used for reproduction effects because it is very difficult to collect newly emerged feral females from the field. Emamectin benzoate was highly toxic to feral H. zea males with LC50 values (95% CL) being 0.718 (0.532–0.878), 0.525 (0.316–0.751), and 0.182 (0.06–0.294) ppm for 24, 48 and 72 h responses, respectively. Sub-lethal concentrations of emamectin benzoate did not significantly reduce proboscis extension response of feral males and gustatory response of female H. zea. Sublethal concentrations of emamectin benzoate significantly reduced percent larval hatch of eggs and mating frequency of female H. zea. Larval survival to the pupal stage was also significantly reduced by ingestion of emamectin benzoate by female H. zea. These data suggest that emamectin benzoate is a useful toxicant in an attract-and-kill control strategy against H. zea. Field studies are warranted to validate the results reported in this study

VMIFF - Visualization metrics for the identification of file fragments

Visualization of complex data, such as a file system or file, allows a forensic analyst or reverse engineer to rapidly locate areas of interest amidst a large quantity of data. While visualization provides a promising form of analysis, is the subject of much skepticism, as human interaction is required in order for this method to be successful. As a result of this, visualization methods face two major obstacles: tediousness and time. As our contribution, we propose a unique method of graphing visual information into a measurable format suitable for use with machine learning algorithms. This method will still utilize the visual layout of the data but streamline this form into one that can be rapidly processed by a machine. In this work we examine existing methods of file fragment analysis, determine how to apply visualization to this analysis, and transform this visual data into a measurable format for machine leaning algorithms using our tool called VMIFF (Visualization Metrics for the Identification of File Fragments). In its breadth, this work aims to demonstrate that such transformations will still yield meaningful results.</p

An electrical resistance method for determining the fiber length distribution of cotton lint

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Determining Fiber-Length Distribution of Cotton by Electrical Resistance Measurements

Excerpts from the report: The basic importance of length measurement of cotton fibers has never been greater than it is today, according to the National Cotton Council. In particular, there has been an increasing need for precise determination of the distribution of fiber lengths within a sample of cotton. These determinations allow cotton-mill operators and merchants to select the best length of cotton available for their particular needs. Length-distribution data are also of great importance for studies in genetics, breeding, and cultural practices related to the cotton plant. The purpose of this report is to present a method of detecting differences in the fiber-length distribution patterns between bales, and a method of analysis that would enable the interpretation of these differences if desired