cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Soil heat flux estimation based on the finite-difference form of the transient heat flow equation

Soil heat flux (G) often aids in interpreting the response of plants to the growing environment, but methods of estimating G are needed that require limited soil temperature and physical property information. This study describes a method for estimating G by implicitly solving the finite-difference form of the transient heat flow equation for the apparent daily thermal conductivity. The derived apparent thermal conductivity and measured soil temperature gradient are applied to Fourier's law for estimating G. This method requires the measurement of soil bulk density and daily water content (for volumetric heat capacity) and hourly temperatures at three depths. Hourly G measured by heat flux plates buried at depths of 0.05 m in apple and peach orchards and 0.03 m in a barley stubble field were compared with G estimated using the harmonic method and our proposed finite-difference method. The finite-difference method performed better, as indicated by a smaller root-mean-square error (r.m.s.e.), than the harmonic method for 71 of the 83 daily data sets used in this study. The average r.m.s.e. in estimating hourly G for the 83 data sets was 10.9 W m−2 for the finite-difference method and 16.3 W m−2 for the harmonic method. Daily net warming or cooling of the soil was correctly estimated for 95% of the data sets using the finite-difference method. The harmonic method, however, results in no net warming or cooling of the soil when deviations are not accounted for in the periodicity.
Napping versus resting: effects on performance and mood

In order to determine the effects of napping and resting on mood and performance for nappers and nonnappers, 48 habitual nappers and 46 habitual nonnappers were randomly assigned to take a nap, to rest in bed without falling asleep, or to watch a neutral videotape (control group). Measurements were obtained from a 10-min auditory reaction time task, a 10-min addition task, and three self-report mood measures 15 min before and after each condition. Subjects in the nap and rest conditions had electrodes attached for recording EEG, EOG, and EMG during the hour-long treatments. Results showed that napping and resting served to improve mood regardless of whether a person habitually naps or not. Sleep itself may not be crucial in improving mood; what may be more important is the period of relaxation common to napping and resting in bed. Overall, performance measures were not affected by either napping or resting.
Molecular characterization of human prostate carcinoma cell lines

BACKGROUND This study presents a comprehensive survey and characterization of available prostate carcinoma cell lines, most of which have been widely used but are incompletely characterized. METHODS A total of 21 cell lines were investigated, including three “classical” (DU 145, LNCaP, and PC-3) and 18 “non-classical” lines (1013L, 22Rv1, ALVA-55, ALVA-101, ARCaP, CWR-R1, DuCaP, DuPro-1, LAPC-4, MDA PCa 1, MDA PCa 2a, MDA PCa 2b, NCI-H660, PC-346C, PC-93, PSK-1, UM-SCP-1, and VCaP). Cytogenetics, DNA profiling, expression of basal, luminal, and neuroendocrine differentiation markers, and mutation analyses of the TP53 and androgen receptor (AR) genes were performed. RESULTS Based on cytogenetics and DNA profiling analyses, out of the 18 “non-classical” lines, six were confirmed to be unique, eight (in four pairs) were confirmed to be related in origin, and four lines were identified as cross-contaminants. Of this latter group, PC-93 was found to be a derivative of HeLa, whereas DuPro-1, ALVA-55, and ALVA-101 were derivatives of PC-3. The 17 genuine prostate cell lines expressed keratin 8 (K8) and K18. Nine showed AR expression, of which five harbored mutations in the AR gene. Prostate-specific antigen and DD3 were exclusively detected in AR expressing cell lines. Seven lines expressed the basal cell marker K5, three of these lines showed co-expression of AR. CONCLUSIONS This study defines a collection of 17 genuine prostate carcinoma cell lines. This collection, although small, constitutes a variety of different types and stages of prostate cancer, while it also partly reflects the heterogeneous nature of this malignancy. Prostate 57: 205–225, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The neuronal basis of feeding in the snail, Helisoma, with comparisons to selected gastropods.

Abstract Research on identified neurons during the last quarter century was forecast at a conference in 1973 that discussed ‘neuronal mechanisms of coordination in simple systems.’ The focus of the conference was on the neuronal control of simple stereotyped behavioral acts. Participants discussing the future of such research called for a comparative approach; emphasis on structure–function interactions; attention to environmental and behavioral context; and the development of new techniques. Significantly, in some cases amazing progress has been made in these areas. Major conclusions of the last quarter century are that so-called simple behaviors and the neural circuitry underlying them tend to be less simple, more flexible, and more highly modulated than originally imagined. However, the comparative approach has, as yet, failed to reach its potential. Molluscan preparations, along with arthropods and annelids, have always been at the forefront of neuroethological studies. Circuitry underlying feeding has been studied in a handful of species of gastropod molluscs. These studies have contributed substantially to our understanding of sensorimotor organization, the hierarchical control of behavior and coordination of multiple behaviors, and the organization and modulation of central pattern generators. However, direct interspecific comparisons of feeding circuitry and potentially homologous neurons have been lacking. This is unfortunate because much of the vast radiation of the class Gastropoda is associated with variations in feeding behaviors and feeding apparatuses, providing ample substrates for comparative studies including the evolution of defined circuitry. Here, the neural organization of feeding in the snail, Helisoma , is examined critically. Possible direct interspecific comparisons of neural circuitry and potentially homologous neurons are made. A universal model for central pattern generators underlying rasping feeding is proposed. Future comparative studies can be expected to combine behavioral, morphological, electrophysiological, molecular and genetic techniques to identify neurons and define neural circuitry. Digital resources will undoubtedly be exploited to organize and interface databases allowing illumination of the evolution of homologous identified neurons and defined neural circuitry in the context of behavioral change.
Time-domain target detection using a double-sided broadband antenna

A double-sided broadband antenna with a double-sided feed line is presented. Compared with traditional broadband antennas, it is quite practical to fabricate and use. A mathematical model to simulate the structure and performance of the antenna is established, based on dipole antenna array theory. A formula for the electric field is derived, and the radiation patterns are calculated. It is clear that this antenna works well over a broad frequency range (i.e. from 50 MHz to 10.05 GHz). Specific measurements are carried out to test the performance of the antenna. Finally, a landmine detection system is designed and tested, yielding very encouraging results.
In Defense of “Pure” Legal Moralism

In this paper I argue that Joel Feinberg was wrong to suppose that liberals must oppose any criminalization of “harmless immorality”. The problem with a theory that permits criminalization only on the basis of his harm and offense principles is that it is underinclusive, ruling out laws that most liberals believe are justified. One objection (Arthur Ripstein’s) is that Feinberg’s theory is unable to account for the criminalization of harmless personal grievances. Another (Larry Alexander’s and Robert George’s) is that it cannot account for public decency laws. I shall reject both of these underinclusiveness objections in favor of one that focuses on the “free floating evil” of corpse desecration. Liberals need “pure” legal moralism (PLM) to explain their support for a criminal ban on mistreatment of the dead. I also argue that while deterrence is plausibly regarded as the primary rationale for criminalizing and punishing wrongs like murder or rape, it is not plausibly regarded as any part of the rationale for criminalizing free floating evils. The point of punishing corpse desecrators has to be either retribution or the promotion of virtue/discouraging of vice. Finally, I consider Feinberg’s reason for rejecting all PLM, namely, that competent adults have a right to personal sovereignty or autonomy, and the state’s duty to respect that right trumps the desirability of punishing or reducing the vice associated with harmless immorality. I argue that Feinberg’s argument here fails because it exaggerates the right’s strength and scope.
Pregabalin in the discontinuation of long‐term benzodiazepines' use

Objective Tolerance, dependence, and adverse effects on cognitive functions are well-known consequences of long-term use of benzodiazepines (BDZ), especially at high doses, raising thorny therapeutic problems in their discontinuation. One promising pharmacological agent in BDZ discontinuation might be the newer anti-epileptic pregabalin, already successfully tested in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Methods We report on a sample of 15 patients with long-term, mostly high-dose dependence from BDZ, treated with pregabalin in an open-label study at doses 225–900 mg. Results All patients discontinued successfully BDZ in 3–14 weeks, moreover with a significant reduction of their previous anxiety levels under BDZ. In addition, patients showed also a significant amelioration in their cognitive functioning. Pregabalin's side-effects were mild and transient, lasting only during the first 2 weeks of treatment. Conclusion Although preliminary, our findings suggest that pregabalin may be one new promising agent in the treatment of BDZ dependence. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diné Bikéya: Teaching about Navajo Citizenship and Sovereignty

The Navajo Nation, comprising the largest land area allocated mainly to a Native American jurisdiction in the United States, offers a unique opportunity to enhance students’ understandings of citiz...
Luttinger parameters for GaAs determined from the intersubband transitions in GaAs/Al x Ga 1-x As multiple quantum wells

Electronic Raman scattering (ERS) measurements of photoexcited holes have been performed on $\mathrm{GaAs}/{\mathrm{Al}}_{x}{\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}\mathrm{As}$ multiple quantum wells grown in the [111] $b$ and [100] directions. These measurements indicate that the heavy- and light-hole masses along the [111] direction are $0.75{m}_{0}$ and $0.082{m}_{0}$, respectively. These values, compared with the heavy- and light-hole masses in the [100] direction ($0.34{m}_{0}$ and $0.094{m}_{0}$ respectively), reveal the highly anisotropic nature of the valence band in GaAs. We propose a new set of Luttinger parameters that describes this anisotropy.
Avascular necrosis of the metacarpal head: a report of two cases and review of literature

Background Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the metacarpal head is a rare condition that can go unrecognized on radiography and progress to degenerative arthritis. Few reports describe the association with trauma, steroid use and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Optimal treatment for this condition has not been established and long-term prognosis is unknown.
Combined organ of Corti/modiolus technique for preparing mammalian cochleas for quantitative microscopy

An improved cochlear preparation technique is described with the following key features: 1) Preservation of the organ of Corti (OC) and the spiral ganglion cells (SGCs) in the same cochlea for quantitative, high-resolution microscopic evaluation; 2) Dissection of the plastic-embedded cochlea so that the entire OC can be prepared as whole mounts for quantitative study while the modiolus remains in a single block; 3) Decalcification and serial sectioning of the modiolus so that all SGC bodies are available for microscopic examination. This technique will be valuable for correlating the condition of the OC, nerve terminals, nerve fibers and the SGC bodies in normal and damaged cochleas.
Dealing with daily hassles: smoking and African-American adolescent girls.

Abstract Purpose: To examine cigarette use and its relationship to daily life hassles in an urban sample of African-American adolescent girls. Methods: A sample of 105 African-American adolescent girls (mean age of 15.45 years) derived from a larger cross-sectional research project titled "Female Adolescent Substance Experience Study" funded by the National Institute of Drug Abuse comprised the sample. The sample was divided into adolescents who had ever smoked in their lifetime and adolescents who had never smoked before. Student's t -tests were conducted to determine whether there were differences between these groups on demographic characteristics and the number of daily life hassles. Pearson product moment correlations were also conducted to examine the association between age of smoking initiation and number of hassles. Results: Less than 50% of the teenagers had ever smoked cigarettes in their lifetime, and of those who had ever smoked, the average age of initiation was 12.55 years (SD = 2.63). Furthermore, girls who had ever smoked, in contrast to girls who had never smoked, had a significantly greater number of daily life hassles, in general, and within the school/academic and family/economic domains in particular. Age of smoking initiation was negatively related to the number of hassles, indicating that girls who started to smoke at a younger age reported more hassles. Conclusions: These findings are discussed in terms of developing an understanding of gender and ethnic-specific correlates of smoking that can be used to better delineate the developmental smoking trajectory of African-American girls.
Cultural variations in sex-typing

The sex-typing of 581 Fiji secondary school and 240 university students was measured using the Personal Attributes Questionnaire (PAQ). Same-sex-typing is less marked in Fiji than in the United States, and there are no differences between the sexes in sex-typing patterns. Minor ethnic group variations among Fiji students occur. University students, especially females, are more similar to their United States counterparts than are secondary school students. The pattern of intercorrelations of PAQ scales suggests a different definition of sex roles in the two countries. The use of the PAQ to tap meaningful cultural differences is discussed.
Threshold Routing to Trade Off Waiting and Call Resolution in Call Centers

In a call center, agents may handle calls at different speeds, and also may be more or less successful at resolving customers' inquiries, even when only considering customers calling with similar requests. One common measure of successful call resolution is whether or not the call results in the customer calling back. This presents a natural trade-off between speed and quality, where speed is defined as the average time before an incoming call is answered (the average waiting time) and quality is defined as the percentage of all arriving calls that do not result in callbacks (the call resolution). The relevant control is the routing, that is, the decision concerning which agent should handle an arriving call when more than one agent is available. In an inverted-V model setting, we formulate an optimization problem with the dual performance objective of minimizing average customer waiting time and maximizing the call resolution. We solve this optimization problem asymptotically in the Halfin–Whitt many-ser...
The health behaviors of the older US worker

BACKGROUND: As the US workforce ages, lifestyle factors will increasingly affect their health, yet little information is available on their prevalence in older working populations. METHODS: Using the nationally representative 1997-2003 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), reported current smoking, risky drinking and leisure-time physical activity behaviors of older workers(>/= 65 years) were compared with older non-workers. These behaviors were evaluated by age, gender, race, ethnicity, and occupation, as well as prototype "healthy" and "risky" persons. RESULTS: The study population of 4,946 older US workers and 38,313 older non-workers represented an estimated 3.9 million older workers and 28.9 million older non-workers annually. Relative to older non-workers, older workers reported more current smoking and risky drinking, but higher levels of leisure-time physical activity with variations by subpopulations. CONCLUSIONS: Less than 4% of the older US worker population reported overall healthy behaviors. Certain occupations and other subpopulations can be targeted for age-appropriate behavioral interventions. Language: en
The Angular Distribution of Electrons Scattered Elastically and Inelastically in Mercury Vapor

A long electron gun was mounted to rotate about a well-shielded scattering region from which electrons scattered by gas molecules through a definite angle from a beam of small cross-section were collected, and their velocities determined, by a stationary collector containing an efficient Faraday cage, 6.0 cm in length. Angular distribution curves for electrons scattered elastically, for electrons scattered due to excitation of the atom (mainly 6.7 volt energy loss), and for electrons resulting from ionizing impacts are presented for 80, 120, 230, 490, and 700-volt electrons. In general, for a particular group, the curves are steeper the higher the velocity of the incident electron. The elastic group shows a diffraction pattern at large angles and the positions of the peaks agree well with those found by Arnot. The curves for the excitation group are much steeper than are those for the elastic group, and fall to very small values at large angles. The curves for the ionization group are also steeper but not so steep as the excitation group; at large angles the scattering is due mainly to slow electrons of this group. The ionization group is divided into sections and further characteristics are observed. Numerical integration of these curves gives the cross-sectional area for collision, the efficiency of ionization, and the efficiency of excitation.
Production of Induced Volatiles by Datura wrightii in Response to Damage by Insects: Effect of Herbivore Species and Time

Natural enemies of herbivorous insects utilize numerous chemical cues to locate and identify their prey. Among these, volatile plant compounds produced after attack by herbivores may play a significant role (hereafter herbivore-induced plant volatiles or HIPVs). One unresolved question is whether the composition of the volatile cue blends induced by different herbivore species differ consistently enough to indicate not only that the plants are damaged by herbivores but also the identity of the herbivore species causing the damage. We studied HIPV production in the undomesticated plant species Datura wrightii in the laboratory when damaged by either of two leaf-chewing herbivore species, Lema daturaphila or Manduca sexta, or when damaged by L. daturaphila and the piercing-sucking bug, Tupiocoris notatus, or both L. daturaphila and T. notatus, for 24 hr. HIPV production was monitored 1 d before induction, the day of induction, and for 7 d after induction. In all experiments, both the quantities and composition of the HIPV blends varied with the time since induction as different components reached peak production at different times after induction. HIPV blends did not differ consistently with the herbivore species causing the damage. For plants damaged by both L. daturaphila and T. notatus, greater amounts of HIPVs were produced than by plants damaged by either species alone, but the amounts did not differ from that predicted as the sum from damage inflicted by each herbivore species independently. The HIPVs of D. wrightii are a general rather than specific indicator of damage by herbivores. Because generalist predators are the most abundant natural enemies in this system, general cues of herbivore damage may be all that are required to facilitate the discovery by predators of plants damaged by any of several suitable prey species.
The Effects of Na 2 O, Al 2 O 3 , and 3203 ON HfO 2 Solubility in Borosilicate Glass

A single borosilicate glass composition has previously been shown to dissolve 10 and 25 mass% PuO2 under oxidizing and reducing conditions, respectively. A simplified version of this glass has been thoroughly investigated to determine the effect of increasing the alkali:aluminum ratio on the HfO2 solubility in borosilicate glasses. We are investigating HfO2 solubility because specific Pu wastes are being considered for disposal in glass, and Hf(IV) serves as a structural surrogate for Pu(IV) and as a neutron absorber in glass. Three series of base glasses were produced using the same initial composition, but varying the oxides B2O3, Al2O3, or Na2O one at a time. In a fourth series of the same initial composition, both Na2O and A12O3 were varied. Hafnia was added to these glasses and the mixture equilibrated for 2 hours: 1 hour at 1450°C after 1 hour at 1560°C. A wide range of HfO2 additions were made to the base glasses, and the solubility of HfO2 determined to within ±1 mass%. The highest solubility determined was 14 mol% (35 mass%) HfO2 in a low-Al glass. We conclude that increasing Na2O/Al2O3 increases the HfO2 solubility, and increasing the B2O3 content apparently has little effect on HfO2 solubility in the borosilicate glasses studied.
Pre-event smallpox vaccination for healthcare workers revisited—the need for a carefully screened multidisciplinary cadre

As healthcare institutions are a focus of smallpox transmission early in an epidemic, several mathematical models support pre-event smallpox vaccination of healthcare workers (HCWs). The deciding factor for HCW voluntary vaccination is the risk of disease exposure versus the risk of vaccine adverse events. In a United States military population, with careful screening to exclude atopic dermatitis/eczema and immunosuppression, over 1 million vaccinia (smallpox) vaccinations were delivered with one fatality attributed to vaccination. Among 37901 United States civilian volunteer HCWs vaccinated, 100 serious adverse events were reported including 10 ischemic cardiac episodes and six myocardial infarctions - two were fatal. This older population had a higher rate of adverse events due to age-related coronary artery disease. T-cell mediated inflammatory processes induced by live vaccinia vaccination may have a role in the observed acute coronary artery events. With exclusion of individuals at risk for coronary artery disease, atopic dermatitis/eczema, and immunosuppression, HCWs can be smallpox vaccinated with minimal risk. A carefully screened multidisciplinary cadre (physician, nurse, infection control practitioner, technician), pre-event vaccinated for smallpox, will supply the necessary leadership to alleviate fear and uncertainty while limiting spread and initial mortality of smallpox.
Sensitivity of fusion performance to classifier model variations

During design of classifier fusion tools, it is important to evaluate the performance of the fuser. In many cases, the output of the classifiers needs to be simulated to provide the range of fusion input that allows an evaluation throughout the design space. One fundamental question is how the output should be distributed, in particular for multi-class continuous output classifiers. Using the wrong distribution may lead to fusion tools that are either overly optimistic or otherwise distort the outcome. Either case may lead to a fuser that performs sub-optimal in practice. It is therefore imperative to establish the bounds of different classifier output distributions. In addition, one must take into account the design space that may be of considerable complexity. Exhaustively simulating the entire design space may be a lengthy undertaking. Therefore, the simulation has to be guided to populate the relevant areas of the design space. Finally, it is crucial to quantify the performance throughout the design of the fuser. This paper addresses these issues by introducing a simulator that allows the evaluation of different classifier distributions in combination with a design of experiment setup, and a built-in performance evaluation. We show results from an application of diagnostic decision fusion on aircraft engines.
Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase from human erythrocyte membranes. Kinetic mechanism and competitive substrate inhibition by glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate☆

Abstract Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPD) was isolated from human erythrocyte ghosts by a simple procedure utilizing ammonium sulfate precipitation and affinity chromatography on NAD+-Sepharose 4B. The purified enzyme had a specific activity of 98 units/mg protein. The kinetic mechanism of GAPD was studied by product and deadend inhibition using NADH, α-glycerophosphate, nitrate, and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate. The results indicated that the human erythrocyte GAPD-catalyzed reaction follows an ordered ter bi mechanism characterized by the sequential addition of NAD+, glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate (GAP), and phosphate to the enzyme and the sequential release of 1,3-diphosphoglycerate and NADH from the enzyme. This contrasts with the mechanism (rapid equilibrium random ter bi) proposed by Oguchi (1970, J. Biochem. (Tokyo)68, 427–439) who based his conclusion on the initial rate data alone. Since the Michaelis-Menten kinetics were not applicable to this enzyme because of the competitive substrate inhibition by GAP, we devised a new kinetic approach for determining the parameters of the GAPD-catalyzed reaction. Results of this study indicate that the GAPD-catalyzed reaction is regulated by both ATP and GAP. We propose that GAP acts as an “amplifier” for the feedback inhibition effect of ATP. We discuss the effect this may have played in causing controversy over the regulatory role of this enzyme in glycolysis.
Generalized Cone Comparison Principle for Viscosity Solutions of the Aronsson Equation and Absolute Minimizers

For any non-negative, quasi-convex Hamiltonian H ∈ C 2(R n ), we consider the L ∞-functional F(u, ·) = ‖H(∇ u)‖ L ∞(·) over . We introduce the notion of comparison with generalized cones (abbreviated CGC) and prove that CGC, viscosity solutions of the Aronsson equation, and absolute minimizers of F(·) are equivalent. This extends an earlier result by Crandall et al. (2001).
In the Shadow of Iraq: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in 2007

raq has become a more effective incubator for posttrau- matic stress disorder (PTSD) in the American service members than any mad scientist could conceivably design. The combat zone in Iraq has no frontline, no safe zone, and the embattled soldier has little with which to differentiate friend from foe, no warning of when or where the next improvised explosive device will be detonated. It is hardly surprising that we are seeing high rates of depression, PTSD, and other anxiety PTSD was rarely diagnosed (identified in the medical record for only 11% of those meeting criteria) in an urban primary care population, reported in this issue ofJournal of General Internal Medicine. Misdiagnosis was commonplace, with a diagnosis of depression recorded for 43% of those who met the criteria for PTSD but not depression. PTSD was also three times more common (adjusted prevalence 35%) in those who did have depression in this population of predominantly poor, inner city, unmarried African Americans than those who did not (11%). Nearly identical depression-PTSD comorbidity rates were identified by Campbell et al., 7 also in this issue, in predominantly older white males receiving primary care at Veterans Administration facilities; similar rates have been reported elsewhere. 8,9 Whereas the comorbidity appears com- pelling, these are both cross-sectional studies, so it is im- possible to say which condition developed first. Moreover, as Liebschutz et al. demonstrate, this relationship is hardly unique to depression; those with other anxiety disorders also had three times the rate of PTSD, and those with chronic pain or irritable bowel syndrome each had twice the rate of PTSD as those who did not. Because the overall prevalence of PTSD in this inner city population was 23%, a cogent argument can be made to screen all comers for PTSD, rather than trying to
Purification and calcium dependence of transglutaminases from sheep hair follicles

To study the calcium sensitivity of sheep hair follicle transglutaminase, which was reportedly calcium-independent [H. W. Harding and G.E. Rogers, Biochemistry, 11, 2858-2863 (1972)], the enzyme was purified from a homogenate of merino sheep hair follicles and its calcium dependence was examined. As a result of purification, two types of transglutaminases (DEAE-unabsorbed and absorbed transglutaminase, DU-TG and DA-TG, respectively) were obtained. The molecular mass of DU-TG was 77 and 82 kDa by SDS-PAGE and gel filtration, respectively, while that of DA-TG was 40 and 80 kDa. Each enzyme was obviously calcium dependent and contained (a) cysteine residue(s) in the active site, like other known mammalian transglutaminases. Maximum activation of DU-TG and DA-TG was observed at 1 and 0.1 mM CaCl2, respectively.
A review of resistance breeding options targeting western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte).

This review presents the latest research regarding maize resistance breeding against western corn rootworm (WCR) in the U.S.A. and Europe. Investigations in Europe on the development of maize cultivars possessing resistant mechanisms against WCR are just beginning. In 2003, the European Commission implemented measures aimed at slowing down the spread of the WCR in Europe. Nevertheless, this pest has already been found in 20 countries of the European region. To establish a sustainable production system, the evaluation of native (nontransgenic) resistance in maize cultivars is essential.This review emphasizes the future challenges involved in the research of native resistance breeding in maize against the insect.
Improving Public Response to Sensitive Transportation Projects

Among the most difficult challenges faced by transportation agencies in the last 25 years relates to informing the public so that opposition to proposed projects is kept to a minimum. This paper examines the methods used by several agencies around the country to inform the public about a variety of environmentally sensitive projects. Those factors which tend to produce positive results are identified, as well as some which do not work well. Lastly, the paper identifies principles and makes recommendations for agencies to use in meeting their public involvement responsibilities.
The impact of structure and process attributes on satisfaction and behavioral intentions

This paper develops a framework that links satisfaction with structure and process attributes to global satisfaction and behavioral intentions. The authors develop and present a structural equation model that encompasses these relationships based on a survey of 635 consumers of healthcare services. The results indicate that satisfaction with both structure and process attributes have a significant impact on global satisfaction. Global satisfaction was found to directly influence both intention to recommend and intention to return to the healthcare service provider.
Can DLCQ test the Maldacena conjecture

We consider the Maldacena conjecture applied to the near horizon geometry of a D1-brane in the supergravity approximation and consider the possibility of testing the conjecture against the boundary field theory calculation using DLCQ. We propose the two point function of the stress energy tensor as a convenient quantity that may be computed on both sides of the correspondence. On the supergravity side, we may invoke the methods of Gubser, Klebanov, Polyakov, and Witten. On the field theory side, we derive an explicit expression for the two point function in terms of data that may be extracted from a DLCQ calculation at a given harmonic resolution. This gives rise to a well defined numerical algorithm for computing the two point function, which we test in the context of free fermions and the 't Hooft model. For the supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory with 16 supercharges that arises in the Maldacena conjecture, the algorithm is perfectly well defined, although the size of the numerical computation grows too fast to admit any detailed analysis at present, and our results are only preliminary. We are, however, able to present more detailed results on the supersymmetric DLCQ computation of the stress energy tensor correlators for two dimensional Yang Mills theories with (1,1) and (2,2) supersymmetries.
Time course of recovery of spermatogenesis and Leydig cell function after cessation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist treatment in the adult rat

This study examined the time course of recovery of spermatogenesis and its relationship to the temporal changes in circulating levels of gonadotropin and testosterone (T) and intratesticular T levels after cessation of treatment with a potent GnRH antagonist (GnRH-A). Adult male rats were given a daily sc injection of Nal-Glu-GnRH antagonist (1250 micrograms/kg BW) for 4 weeks and killed in groups of five 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 weeks after discontinuation of treatment. After cessation of treatment, plasma FSH levels returned to control values by 6 weeks, whereas LH levels returned to control values within 1 week. Both circulating as well as intratesticular levels of T returned to normal levels by 3 and 4 weeks, respectively. Interestingly, a rebound in both FSH and intratesticular T, but not in plasma T, beyond control levels occurred early in the recovery phase. The total volume of Leydig cells, which was only 15% of control values, increased 4.3-fold within 1 week and was not significantly different from control values (92% recovery) by 2 weeks posttreatment. Enumeration of earlier phases of germ cells as well as homogenization-resistant advanced (steps 17-19) spermatids revealed a progressive increase in germ cell numbers with time. Complete restoration of the numbers of preleptotene spermatocytes, pachytene spermatocytes, step 7 spermatids, and advanced spermatids occurred 1, 3, 4, and 6 weeks, respectively, after termination of GnRH-A treatment. There was also a complete reversal of GnRH-A-induced changes in testicular weight, tubule diameter, and volume of seminiferous tubules and their lumens by 6 weeks posttreatment, paralleling the recovery of spermatogenesis. These results suggest that 1) complete recovery of spermatogenesis and various other testicular parameters can be achieved in GnRH-A-treated rats after cessation of treatment; 2) the progression of various germ cells during the recovery period follows the normal time schedule of germ cell development; and 3) the recovery of spermatogenesis is preceded by supranormal levels of FSH and intratesticular T. These findings further emphasize the suitability of antagonistic analogs of GnRH for male fertility control.
Respectful type converters

In converting an object of one type to another, we expect some of the original object's behavior to remain the same and some to change. How can we state the relationship between the original object and converted object to characterize what information is preserved and what is lost after the conversion takes place? We answer this question by introducing the new relation, respects, and say that a type converter function C:A/spl rarr/B respects a type T. We formally define respects in terms of the Liskov and Wing behavioral notion of subtyping; types A and B are subtypes of T. We explain in detail the applicability of respectful type converters in the context of the Typed Object Model (TOM) Conversion Service, built at Carnegie Mellon and used on a daily basis throughout the world. We also briefly discuss how our respects relation addresses a similar question in two other contexts: type evolution and interoperability.
Restoration of the Name, Aedes Hendersoni Cockerell, and Its Elevation to Full Specific Rank (Diptera: Culicidae)

The action indicated is based upon a study of series tain problems relative to this complex of mosquitoes, of fourth-instar larvae, reared adults, the chromosome and for this reason, the descriptions have been based complements, and the type of Aedes hendersoni Cockerell. upon the insects from Boulder, Colorado; the population Collected and reared specimens from Boulder, Colorado in that area is considered to be true hendersoni. The and central Texas have been examined, as well as museum central Texas population for the present has been desigspecimens from other areas. This study has raised cer- nated as the Aedes hendersoni complex.
IterTunnel; a method for predicting and evaluating ligand EgressTunnels in proteins with buried active sites

The computational prediction of ligand entry and egress paths in proteins has become an emerging topic in computational biology due to the potential for estimating kinetic properties of drug binding. These properties are related to important pharmacological quantities such as the kon and koff rate of drugs [1,2].We have investigated the influence of protein flexibility on tunnel prediction using geometric methods by comparing tunnels identified in static structures with those found in structural ensembles of three CYP isozymes. We found drastic differences between tunnels predicted in the crystal structures as opposed to those predicted in the ensembles [3]. Furthermore, we found significant differences between tunnels identified in the apo versus the holo protein ensembles [3]. While geometric prediction provides a good starting point for tunnel prediction, in order to estimate kinetic properties, more detailed investigations of the ligand binding process are required. We have developed a tunnel prediction methodology, IterTunnel, which predicts tunnels in proteins and estimates the free energy of ligand unbinding using a combination of geometric tunnel prediction with steered molecular dynamics and umbrella sampling [4]. Applying this new method to cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6), we demonstrate that the ligand itself plays an important role in reshaping tunnels as it traverses through a protein. This process results in the exposure of new tunnels and the closure of pre-existing tunnels as the ligand migrates from the active site. We found that many of the tunnels that are exposed due to ligand-induced conformational changes are amongst the most energetically favorable tunnels for ligand egress in CYP2B6 [4].
Evaluation of a distributed TDMA rescheduling procedure for mobile packet radio networks

A methodology, consisting of three procedures, that maximizes the use of the bandwidth for a TDMA (time-division multiple access) schedule and allows mobile nodes to locally reschedule transmission slots is described. To evaluate the performance, the methodology is implemented in a detailed radio network simulation. The parameters incorporated into the simulation include the network topology, the time between moves, the length of the TDMA frame, the sampling interval used before starting the collision resolution or secondary assignment procedure, and the error rate. The performance measure used is average packet delay time. Simulation verified that the procedures considered operate correctly in a dynamic environment and correctly recovered from transmission error and collisions. While there are many factors that affect the average packet delay, the most significant are the TDMA frame length, the move rate, and the error rates. >
Regional citrate anticoagulation for continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration using calcium-containing dialysate

Abstract Background: Regional anticoagulation with trisodium citrate for continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) is an effective and safe alternative to heparin, especially in patients at high risk for bleeding. However, regional citrate anticoagulation is not used widely because current protocols are complex, labor intensive, and cumbersome. Existing protocols require the use of calcium-free dialysate with a continuous systemic calcium infusion to prevent hypocalcemia. We evaluated Anticoagulant Citrate Dextrose Formula A (ACD-A) solution for regional anticoagulation in CVVHDF in combination with a commercially available calcium-containing dialysis solution. Methods: Thirty-eight patients in the intensive care units underwent citrate-based CVVHDF using low-calcium peritoneal dialysis solution (calcium, 5.0 mg/dL [1.25 mmol/L]). ACD-A infusion rate was adjusted to maintain postfilter ionized calcium (iCa++) levels at 1.0 to 2.0 mg/dL (0.25 to 0.5 mmol/L). Calcium chloride (10%) solution was administered intravenously every 6 hours on an as-needed basis to maintain systemic serum iCa++ levels at 3.5 to 4.0 mg/dL (0.88 to 1.0 mmol/L). Results: CVVHDF was performed for a total of 394 days using 149 hemofilters. Mean hemofilter life span was 63.5 ± 27.1 hours. Seventy-five percent, 61%, and 49% of hemofilters were patent at 24, 48, and 72 hours, respectively. No patient experienced a change in clinical status caused by hypocalcemia and/or signs and symptoms of citrate toxicity. Four patients developed metabolic alkalosis requiring 0.1 N of hydrochloric acid infusion. Conclusion: Our simplified technique of regional citrate anticoagulation for CVVHDF using calcium-containing dialysate is not associated with increased hemofilter clotting and obviates the need for a continuous systemic calcium infusion and calcium-free dialysate.
Viral structural transition mechanisms revealed by multiscale molecular dynamics/order parameter extrapolation simulation.

On the basis of an all-atom multiscale analysis theory of nanosystem dynamics, a multiscale molecular dynamics/order parameter extrapolation (MD/OPX) approach has recently been developed. It accelerates MD for long-time simulation of large bionanosystems and addresses rapid atomistic fluctuations and slowly varying coherent dynamics simultaneously. In this study, MD/OPX is optimized and implemented to simulate viral capsid structural transitions. Specifically, 200 ns MD/OPX simulation of the swollen state of cowpea chlorotic mottle virus capsid reveals that it undergoes significant energy-driven shrinkage in vacuum, which is a symmetry-breaking process involving local initiation and front propagation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 93: 61–73, 2010. This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Sensor interpretation and task-directed planning using perceptual equivalence classes

Consideration is given to how a robot may interpret its sensors and direct its actions so as to gain more information about the world, and to accomplish manipulation tasks. The focus is on general techniques for coping with uncertainty, specifically, to sense the state of the task, adapt to changes, and reason to select actions to gain information and achieve the goal. When the environment is integrated through sensors, one in effect views a projection of the world onto the space of possible sensor values. The structure of this sensor space and its relationship to the world is investigated. It is observed that sensors partition the world into perceptual equivalence classes that can serve as natural landmarks. By analyzing the properties of these equivalence classes a lattice and a bundle structure for the information available to the robot through sensing and action are developed. This yields a framework in which algorithms for sensor-based planning and reasoning are developed and characterized. >
Stellar Content and Chemical Evolution in Spheroidal Populations

Intense study of the stellar population of the nuclear bulge during the last decade has provided important insights into the populations of other bulges and ellipticals. Due to the wide range of abundances in these populations, one expects to find a complex evolved population, with late M giants and RR Lyrae stars coexisting in the same volume. In the galactic bulge, the abundance distribution can be fit by the closed box model; the discovery of correlations between color and local escape velocity in ellipticals suggests that the one-zone model with a wind could describe the abundance distributions in most spheroidal populations. There is growing evidence for an age range as well. Luminous M giants have been found in the bulge of the Milky Way and most recently in the bulge of M31. We consider the possibility that bulges may be formed in starbursts that do not necessarily have to occur at early times.
Isolation of galactosyltransferase from human milk and the determination of its N-terminal amino acid sequence.

Abstract Galactosyltransferase (EC 2.4.1.22), purified to homogeneity from human milk by affinity chromatography, had an apparent molecular weight of 53,000 as determined by denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Subtration of the estimated contribution of the oligosaccharide portion of the molecule leaves a M r of 47,000. An N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis of the isolated protein revealed a sequence similar to that found near the 5′ end of a cDNA clone isolated by Shaper et al (11), which encodes a 35,500 molecular weight protein. Either the molecular weight of galactosyltransferase, has been overestimated, or a discrepancy exists between the actual molecular weight of galactosyltransferase and that predicted by the bovine cDNA clone isolated by Shaper et al (11).
The role of molecular diffusion in the adhesion of EPDM and EPR elastomers

Adhesion of lightly crosslinked sheets of EPDM (ethylene–propylene–diene terpolymer) to themselves and to a Mylar substrate has been investigated over wide ranges of peel rate and test temperature. The effect of incorporating ethylene–propylene copolymer (EPR) before crosslinking, to yield a loose macromolecular network containing dissolved linear EPR macromolecules, was also studied. The self-adhesion of these materials was found to be much greater than their adhesion to Mylar, over a wide range of effective peel rates. This is attributed to interdiffusion of EPR and EPDM molecular strands. At extremely low peel rates the enhancement of adhesion was smaller, probably because of back-diffusion, and at high rates, the strength of adhesion became high in all cases. These results are compared to those obtained previously for polyisobutylene-co- isoprene networks containing linear polyisobutylene molecules. The enhancement of self-adhesion at intermediate rates of peel was considerably greater for the EPDM-based materials, probably because of a lower degree of crosslinking and a greater tendency to form molecular entanglements.
Vibrational spectra and force constants for trans‐sodium hyponitrite

Laser Raman spectra of trans-sodium hyponitrite (Na2N2O2) as a solid and in aqueous solution have been recorded, together with its infrared spectrum. Polarization data for the aqueous solution Raman spectra were also determined for the first time. The results confirm the trans structure of the hyponitrite ion and also have led to a new vibrational assignment. Force constant calculations have been carried out and these accurately predict the observed frequency shifts upon isotopic substitution. The potential energy distributions were also determined and these provide a useful picture of the coupling of the vibrational modes.