cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Triplet state properties of dichlorobenzenes

The triplet-triplet absorption spectra have been determined by laser flash photolysis for ortho, meta and para dichlorobenzene. The wavelength of maximum absorption λmax was 290 nm for both the ortho and meta isomers and was 310 nm for the para isomer. The triplet decay was studied in cyclohexane and in methanol. It was found to be a function of the initial triplet concentration and the rate constants for triplet-triplet annihilation and the first-order decay were obtained. The relative triplet yields in methanol were determined by energy transfer to anthracene, and absolute quantum yields were estimated. From this and comparison with literature data for the photodecomposition quantum yields, it was concluded that the photochemically active state in methanol is the excited singlet.
Characterization of 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci of Pityopsis graminifolia var. latifolia

Pityopsis graminifolia (Michx.) Small var. latifolia (Fern.) Semple is an herbaceous perennial that grows in close proximity to the federally endangered species P. ruthii (Small) Small. Twelve polymorphic microsatellite loci were identified from 87 samples of P. graminifolia var. latifolia and additionally characterized with P. ruthii and P. falcata samples. Alleles per locus ranged from 4 to 21. Expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.077 to 0.106 and Shannon’s Information Index ranged from 0.135 to 0.244. These microsatellite loci can be used to study genetic diversity and population diversity of P. graminifolia var. latifolia and its relationship to other Pityopsis species.
Study of scanning tunneling microscopy images and probable relaxations of the SrTiO3(100) surface by electronic structure calculations

Abstract Partial electron density plots were calculated for a model SrTiO 3 (100) surface with √5 × √5 ordered oxygen vacancy to examine why the bright spots of the scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) images of SrTiO 3 (100) observed in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) correspond to the oxygen vacancy sites. Possible dependence of the image on the polarity and magnitude of the bias voltage was also discussed on the basis of partial electron density plot calculations. Our study strongly suggests that the UHV STM imaging involves the lowest-lying d-block level of every two Ti 3+ centers adjacent to an oxygen vacancy, the tip-sample distance involved in the UHV STM experiments is substantially larger than that involved in typical ambient-condition STM imaging, and the Ti 4+ and Ti 3+ sites of SrTiO 3 (100) are reconstructed.
Serologic Survey for Selected Arboviruses and Other Potential Pathogens in Wildlife from Mexico

During 1988 and 1989, a serologic survey of wildlife was conducted in northeastern Mexico to determine the presence, prevalence, and distribution of arboviruses and other selected disease agents. Eighty mammal specimens were tested. Antibodies to vesicular stomatitis-Indiana, Venezuelan equine encephalitis–Mena II, Rio Grande virus, and vesicular stomatitis-New Jersey were detected predominately in small mammals. Deer and mouflon (Ovis musimon) had antibodies to bluetongue and epizootic hemorrhagic disease. Two species had serologic evidence of recent exposure to Francisella tularensis. A white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) had antibodies to Anaplasma marginale. All specimens tested for antibodies against Yersinia pestis and Brucella abortus were negative. Sera from 315 birds were tested for antibody against five equine encephalitis viruses and six avian pathogens. During 1988, antibodies to Venezuelan equine encephalitis–Mena II, Venezuelan equine encephalitis-TC83, St. Louis encephalitis, eastern...
Intimacy development in middle adolescence : its relationship to gender and family cohesion and adaptability

The relationships of family cohesion and adaptability to adolescent intimacy development were explored by administering the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales survey and the Fundamental Interpersonal Relationship Orientation - Behavioral Version survey to 207 middle adolescents (70 males and 137 females) from a small midwestern high school. The adolescents' perceptions of family adaptability correlated with the amount of responsibility the teens expressed in their relationships, while cohesion correlated with companionship and affection in their relationships; however, females' scores were related to cohesion, while males' scores were related to satisfaction with cohesion in their families. The study suggests that family cohesion and adaptability differentially influence intimacy development based on the adolescent's gender.
Vitamin E and C supplementation reduces oxidative stress, improves antioxidant enzymes and positive muscle work in chronically loaded muscles of aged rats

Abstract Aging is associated with increased oxidative stress. Muscle levels of oxidative stress are further elevated with exercise. The purpose of this study was to determine if dietary antioxidant supplementation would improve muscle function and cellular markers of oxidative stress in response to chronic repetitive loading in aging. The dorsiflexors of the left limb of aged and young adult Fischer 344 Brown × Norway rats were loaded 3 times weekly for 4.5 weeks using 80 maximal stretch–shortening contractions per session. The contra-lateral limb served as the intra-animal control. The rats were randomly assigned to a diet supplemented with Vitamin E and Vitamin C or normal non-supplemented rat chow. Biomarkers of oxidative stress were measured in the tibialis anterior muscle. Repetitive loading exercise increased maximal isometric force, negative work and positive work in the dorsiflexors of young adult rats. Only positive work increased in the aged animals that were supplemented with Vitamin E and C. Markers of oxidative stress (H2O2, total GSH, GSH/GSSG ratio, malondialdehyde and 8-OHdG) increased in the tibialis anterior muscles from aged and young adult animals with repetitive loading, but Vitamin E and C supplements attenuated this increase. MnSOD activity increased with supplementation in the young adult animals. CuZnSOD and catalase activity increased with supplementation in young adult and aged animals and GPx activity increased with exercise in the non-supplemented young adult and aged animals. The increased levels of endogenous antioxidant enzymes after Vitamin E and C supplementation appear to be regulated by post-transcriptional modifications that are affected differently by age, exercise, and supplementation. These data suggest that antioxidant supplementation improves indices of oxidative stress associated with repetitive loading exercise and aging and improves the positive work output of muscles in aged rodents.
A Cost-Effectiveness Strategy for Transtelephonic Arrhythmia Monitoring

Abstract In conclusion, TTM appears more effective than ambulatory ECG for the detection of arrhythmias associated with intermittent central nervous system or cardiac symptoms. Limiting TTM to patients with primarily cardiac symptoms and to a 1-week time period would have optimized cost-effectiveness in this group of patients.
Characterization of neutral species produced by electron interactions with N2, O2, CO and Ar

Abstract A neutral fragment mass spectrometer has been used to generate and characterize the neutral products formed when energetic electrons interact with N 2 , O 2 , CO and Ar and mixtures thereof. Atomic nitrogen in its ground state is produced from N 2 . All other neutral products observed are in excited states, primarily in atomic Rydberg states.
Influence of different particle sizes on reactivity of finely ground glass as supplementary cementitious material (SCM)

Abstract Finely ground glass can be pozzolanically reactive and serve as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). In this study, the pozzolanic reactivity of three narrow size ranges of green glass cullet, 63–75 μm, 25–38 μm, and 0–25 μm was investigated in order to understand the effects of particle size on glassy SCM reactivity. Isothermal calorimetry, chemical shrinkage, thermogravimetric analysis, and leaching tests were used to measure cement and glass dissolution and reactions. Images taken by scanning electronic microscope (SEM) in backscattered (BS) mode were analyzed to measure glass degree of hydration. In addition, mortar compressive strength and water absorption of samples containing glass powder at different curing temperatures and ages were used to relate reaction degree to performance. Results showed that hydration degree of the glass particles could be directly accounted for through linear correlation with particles surface area.
Infrared measurements of atmospheric ethane (C2H6) from aircraft and ground-based solar absorption spectra in the 3000 cm−1 region

A number or prominent Q-branches or the upsilon(sub 7) band or C2H6 have been identified near 3000/ cm in aircraft and ground-based infrared solar absorption spectra. The aircraft spectra provide the column amount above 12 km at various altitudes. The column amount is strongly correlated with tropopause height and can be described by a constant mixing ratio of 0.46 ppbv in the upper troposphere and a mixing ratio scale height of 3.9 km above the tropopause. The, ground-based spectra yield a column of 9.0 x 10(exp 15) molecules/sq cm above 2.1 km; combining these results implies a tropospheric mixing ratio of approximately 0.63 ppbv.
Lymphocyte turnover in HIV-1 infection and the role of the thymus in SIV infection

We investigated the dynamics of lymphocyte turnover in normal subjects as well as in HIV-1-infected patients using a novel labeling technique based on the administration of deuterium-containing glucose. A new mathematical model was also used to interpret the results. This approach provided direct determination of lymphocyte proliferation and death rates. We believe our findings convincingly demonstrate the increased turnover (3-6 fold) of both CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes in HIV-1 infection. Furthermore, we also noted that the heightened T-cell turnover reverted toward normal upon effective combination antiretroviral therapy. Collectively, these data show that the lymphocyte depletion seen in AIDS is not a consequence of a T-cell regenerative failure.We have also assessed the role of thymus in contributing to T lymphocyte homeostasis with and without SIV infection. Upon thymectomy in rhesus macaques, we noted a very gradual decline in the number of recent thymic emigrants as measured by the number of T-cell receptor excision circles. These results suggest that the normal thymic output in monkeys is small, and that recent thymic emigrants typically have a prolonged lifespan. We have also found relatively little impact of thymectomy on the outcome of SIV infection. Again, these findings indicate that thymus does not play a major role in the lymphocyte depletion observed in SIV or HIV infection.
The Palatinate Church Order of 1563

The ground and provocation of the German Reformed Church are first considerations in the appreciation of its character. It is understood that the Palatinate Church Order of 1563, containing the Heidelberg Catechism and the Palatinate liturgy, introduced a permanent Reformed tradition to Germany. It should also be understood that that kirchenordnung represented the effort of a Melanchthonian church to maintain its evangelical consciousness against the pressures of Gnesio-Lutheranism. Later Palatinate religion arose thus from the ground of Melanchthonianism and in the context of the Crypto-Calvinist controversy—the creation of Zacharius Ursinus, a pupil of Melanchthon and Martyr, and more deeply of John a Lasco, the Polish reformer whose influence in this connection remains untold.
Dirac cone dispersion of acoustic waves in plates without phononic crystals

Lamb waves in elastic plates exhibit Dirac-like cone dispersion at zero wavevector at the points of accidental degeneracy between longitudinal and transverse thickness resonances. The Lamb mode dispersion can be fine-tuned to yield a conical point by coating a plate with a layer of a different material and varying the thickness of the latter. Similarities and differences with respect to Dirac-like cone dispersion in phononic crystals and possible observable effects are discussed.
Identification of nonlinearities for damage inspection of thin-walled structures

This paper shows that time-frequency analysis is most appropriate for nonlinearity identification, and presents advanced signal processing techniques that combine time-frequency decomposition and perturbation methods for parametric and non-parametric identification of thin-walled structures and other dynamical systems. Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) is a recent data-driven adaptive time-frequency analysis technique that combines the use of empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and Hilbert transform (HT). Because EMD does not use predetermined basis functions and function orthogonality for component extraction, HHT provides more concise component decomposition and more accurate timefrequency analysis than the short-time Fourier transform and wavelet transform for extraction of system characteristics and nonlinearities. However, HHT's accuracy seriously suffers from the end effect caused by the discontinuity-induced Gibbs' phenomenon. Moreover, because HHT requires a long set of data obtained by high-frequency sampling, it is not appropriate for online frequency tracking. This paper presents a conjugate-pair decomposition (CPD) method that requires only a few recent data points sampled at a low frequency for sliding-window point-by-point adaptive timefrequency analysis and can be used for online frequency tracking. To improve adaptive time-frequency analysis, a methodology is developed by combining HHT and CPD for noise filtering in the time domain, reducing the end effect, and dissolving other mathematical and numerical problems in time-frequency analysis. For parametric identification of a nonlinear system, the methodology processes one steady-state response and/or one free damped transient response and uses amplitude-dependent dynamic characteristics derived from perturbation analysis to determine the type and order of nonlinearity and system parameters. For non-parametric identification, the methodology uses the maximum displacement states to determine the displacement-stiffness curve and the maximum velocity states to determine the velocity-damping curve. Numerical simulations and experimental verifications of several nonlinear discrete and continuous systems show that the proposed methodology can provide accurate parametric and non-parametric identifications of different nonlinear dynamical systems.
Electromagnetic theory of the semi-conductor junction laser

Abstract A review is given of the electromagnetic mode properties of the present semiconductor junction lasers. Previous treatments are simplified, and also generalized, by the basic approximation of representing the active region as a lumped negative sheet conductance and sheet susceptance. A lower limit for the threshold current density is given in terms of the bulk absorption coefficient and surface reflectivity. Transitions between impurity levels, or impurity bands, are briefly discussed.
A compliant contact-aided revolute joint

This paper presents the compliant contact-aided revolute (CCAR) joint, a planar mechanism capable of performing the functions of a bearing and a spring. The pseudo-rigid-body model is used to predict the behavior of the CCAR joint, and this model is validated through the use of finite element analysis and prototype testing. The CCAR joint is shown to have high maximum rotation and lateral stiffness. A case study is presented, and manufacturing considerations are discussed for the macro, meso, and micro scales.
Isolation and characterization of two linked mouse U1b small nuclear RNA genes

A 6.9 kilobase Eco R1 fragment containing genes for two U1 RNAs has been isolated from a library of mouse DNA. The two genes code for an RNA which is very similar, if not identical, to mouse U1b RNA as judged by S1 nuclease mapping. This RNA is one base longer than the mouse U1a RNA, human U1 RNA, and rat U1 RNA and differs in six nucleotide substitutions from rat U1 RNA. The two genes are five kilobases apart and the U1 RNAs are coded for on opposite strands of the DNA with the 5' ends juxtaposed. The sequences flanking the genes are identical for 700 bases 5' to the gene and at least 80 bases 3' to the gene.
Finescale parameterizations of turbulent dissipation

Fine- and microstructure data from a free fall profiler are analyzed to test models that relate the turbulent dissipation rate (e) to characteristics of the internal wave field. The data were obtained from several distinct been previously available. Observations from the ocean interior with negligible large-scale flow were examined to address the buoyancy scaling of e. These data exhibited a factor of 140 range in squared buoyancy frequency (N 2 ) with depth and uniform internal wave characteristics, consistent with the Garrett-Munk spectrum. The magnitude of e and its variation with N(∼N 2 ) was best described by the dynamical model of Henyey et al. A second dynamical model, by McComas and Muller, predicted an appropriate buoyancy scaling but overestimated the observed dissipation rates. Two kinematical dissipation parametrizations predicted buoyancy scalings of N 3/2 ; these are shown to be inconscient with the observations. Data from wave fields that depart from the canonical GM description are also examined an interpreted with reference to the dynamical models. The measurements came from a warm core ring dominated by strong near-inertial shears, a region of steep topography exhibiting high-frequency internal wave characteristics, and a midocean regime dominated at large wavelengths by an internal tide. Of the dissipation predictions examined, those of the Henyey et al. model in which eN − 2 scales as E 2 , where E is the nondimensional spectral shear level, were most consistent with observations. Nevertheless, the predictions for these cases exhibited departures from the observations by more than an order of magnitude. For the present data, these discrepancies appeared most sensitive to the distribution of internal wave frequency, inferred here from the ratio of shear spectral level to that for strain. Application of a frequency-based correction to the Henyey et al. model returned dissipation values consistent with observed estimates to within a factor of 2. These results indicate that the kinetic energy dissipation rate (and attendant turbulent mixing) is small for the background Garrett and Munk internal wave conditions (0.25eN −2 ∼ 0.7 × 10 − 5 m 2 s − 1). Dissipation and mixing become large when wave shear spectral levels are elevated, particularly by high-frequency waves. Thus, internal wave reflection/generation at steep topographic features appear promising candidates for achieving enhanced dissipation and strong diapycnal mixing in the deep ocean that appears required by box models and advection-diffusion balances
An N-terminal Inhibitory Function, IF, Suppresses Transcription by the A-isoform but Not the B-isoform of Human Progesterone Receptors

The B-isoform of human progesterone receptors (PR) contains three activation functions (AF3, AF1, and AF2), two of which (AF1 and AF2) are shared with the A-isoform. AF3 is in the B-upstream segment (BUS), the far N-terminal 164 amino acids of B-receptors; AF1 is in the 392-amino acid N-terminal region common to both receptors; and AF2 is in the C-terminal hormone binding domain. B-receptors are usually stronger transactivators than A-receptors due to transcriptional synergism between AF3 and one of the two downstream AFs. We now show that the N terminus of PR common to both isoforms contains an inhibitory function (IF) located in a 292-amino acid segment lying upstream of AF1. IF represses the activity of A-receptors but is not inhibitory in the context of B-receptors due to constraints imparted by BUS. As a result, IF inhibits AF1 or AF2 but not AF3, regardless of the position of IF relative to BUS. IF is functionally independent and strongly represses transcription when it is fused upstream of estrogen receptors. These data demonstrate the existence of a novel, transferable inhibitory function, mapping to the PR N terminus, which begins to assign specific roles to this large undefined region.
Evaluation of Structural Equation Mixture Models: Parameter Estimates and Correct Class Assignment

Structural equation mixture models (SEMMs) are latent class models that permit the estimation of a structural equation model within each class. Fitting SEMMs is illustrated using data from 1 wave of the Notre Dame Longitudinal Study of Aging. Based on the model used in the illustration, SEMM parameter estimation and correct class assignment are investigated in a large-scale simulation study. Design factors of the simulation study are (im)balanced class proportions, (im)balanced factor variances, sample size, and class separation. We compare the fit of models with correct and misspecified within-class structural relations. In addition, we investigate the potential to fit SEMMs with binary indicators. The structure of within-class distributions can be recovered under a wide variety of conditions, indicating the general potential and flexibility of SEMMs to test complex within-class models. Correct class assignment is limited.
Experimental Investigation of Multicycle Irradiation and Annealing Effects on Notch Ductility of A533-B Weld Deposits

Postirradiation heat treatment (annealing) at 399°C has demonstrated a capability for the relief of radiation embrittlement to reactor vessel steels. Building on an earlier investigation, this report describes a study of Charpy-V (C V ) notch ductility and tensile properties behavior of two representative reactor vessel welds under cyclic 399°C postirradiation annealing and 288°C reirradiation. The welds were by the submerged-arc process and were chosen for their high radiation sensitivity (high copper content) and for their difference in as-fabricated C V upper-shelf energy levels derived from different welding fluxes. Weld properties were determined at each phase of the anneal-reirradiation-reanneal-reirradiation sequence. The study clearly demonstrates the capability of the annealing method for maintaining property changes for reactor steels, including C V upper-shelf reduction and transition temperature elevation, below prefixed limits. In addition, the study confirms a significantly greater rate of embrittlement by heat-treated material compared with nonheat-treated material. Pronounced dissimilarities between C V upper-shelf energy and transition temperature behavior were observed, but parallels were shown with tensile ductility and strength changes, respectively, during annealing and reirradiation.
Opioids regulate the release of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone from trophoblast tissue

Abstract Opioid ligands were investigated for their effect on hCG release from trophoblast tissue obtained from term human placenta. Data obtained indicate that opiate agonists stimulate in vitro basal hCG release from trophoblast tissue. The potency of these opioid agonists correspond to their kappa receptor selectivity, i.e., the greater the selectivity the lower is the effective concentration causing maximum stimulation. Opioid antagonists inhibit the release of hCG due to their reversal of the stimulation caused by endogenous opioid peptides. Potency of the antagonists correspond also to their kappa receptor selectivity. Antagonists reverse the stimulation of hCG release caused by agonists indicating the ligand's action is mediated by the placenta kappa opioid receptors. The bell shaped response curves for agonists and antagonists suggest that opioids play a role in the regulation of hCG release from trophoblast tissue, but other mechanism(s) may also exist.
Long-term efficacy of the pubovaginal Mersilene mesh sling.

Objective The objective of the study was to determine the efficacy of the pubovaginal Mersilene mesh sling (PVMMS) for complicated urodynamic stress incontinence (USI). Study Design Between 1990 and 2008, patients with USI plus an at-risk diagnosis underwent a PVMMS by a single surgeon. They were followed up with urodynamics (UDE) and Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-short form 20 (PFDI-20). Stratification was in an at-risk hierarchy: intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) greater than recurrent USI (RUSI) greater than USI with chronically increased intraabdominal pressure (CI-IAP). A cough stress test determined objective cure. PFDI question 17 assessed subjective cure. Results Three hundred six patients with ISD (43.5%), RUSI (26.8%), and CI-IAP (29.7%) had objective cure rates of 89.2% in the short term, 86.7% in the intermediate term, and 91.2% in the long term. A group of 48 patients with both short- and long-term UDEs showed cures of 100% and 91.7%. Long-term objective cure rates were: ISD, 90.5% (n = 21); RUSI, 84.2%, (n = 19); CI-IAP, 100% (n = 17). The mean score of postoperative PFDI question 17 was 0.57 (n = 119). Mean symptom improvement was –2.98 (n = 52; P Conclusion We demonstrated PVMMS to be subjectively and objectively effective in long-term treatment of complicated forms of USI.
Design for rectangular hyperbolic crop-weed competition

Fitting curves to data rather than doing multiple pairwise comparisons necessitates consideration of design. For the rectangular hyperbolic model of crop-weed competition, emphasising extreme weed densities is shown to be efficient relative to experiments using a traditional design.
Applying the scientific method to small catchment studies: a review of the Panola Mountain experience

A hallmark of the scientific method is its iterative application to a problem to increase and refine the understanding of the underlying processes controlling it. A successful iterative application of the scientific method to catchment science (including the fields of hillslope hydrology and biogeochemistry) has been hindered by two factors. First, the scale at which controlled experiments can be performed is much smaller than the scale of the phenomenon of interest. Second, computer simulation models generally have not been used as hypothesis-testing tools as rigorously as they might have been. Model evaluation often has gone only so far as evaluation of goodness of fit, rather than a full structural analysis, which is more useful when treating the model as a hypothesis. An iterative application of a simple mixing model to the Panola Mountain Research Watershed is reviewed to illustrate the increase in understanding gained by this approach and to discern general principles that may be applicable to other studies. The lessons learned include the need for an explicitly stated conceptual model of the catchment, the definition of objective measures of its applicability, and a clear linkage between the scale of observations and the scale of predictions.
Conceptualizing the International For-Profit Social Entrepreneur

This article looks at social entrepreneurs that operate for-profit and internationally, offering that international for-profit social entrepreneurs (IFPSE) are of a unique type. Initially, this article utilizes the entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship, and international entrepreneurship literatures to develop a definition of the IFPSE. Next, a proposed model of the IFPSE is built utilizing the dimensions of mindset, opportunity recognition, social networks, and outcomes. Case studies of three IFPSE are then used to examine the proposed model. In the final section, findings from the case studies are used to examine the proposed model and more fully elucidate the dimensions of the IFPSE.
Airway Clearance Therapy: Finding the Evidence

Disease processes can impair ciliary function, alter secretion production and mucus rheology, and interfere with the cough reflex. Airway clearance therapy has been a cornerstone of therapy aimed at minimizing the devastating effects of airway obstruction, infection, and inflammation due to mucus stasis on the conducting airways and lung parenchyma. Although challenges to performing clinical studies evaluating the effectiveness of airway clearance therapeutic modalities exist, resources are available in the literature. In addition to device evaluations and original clinical research, the expert opinion, systematic reviews, and evidence-based practice guidelines can be found. These tools can be used to develop protocols and pathways to guide our practice. Monitoring and reporting patient, process, and financial outcomes are essential steps germane to the implementation of evidence-based care.
Activities Contributing to Total Energy Expenditure in the United States: Results from the NHAPS Study

BACKGROUND: Physical activity is increasingly recognized as an important factor influencing health and disease status. Total energy expenditure, both low-intensity and high-intensity, contributes to maintenance of healthy body weight. This paper presents the results of a quantitative approach to determining the activities that contribute to total energy expenditure in the United States. METHODS: Data from the National Human Activity Pattern Survey (NHAPS) were used. In 1992-1994 the NHAPS sampled 4,185 females and 3,330 males, aged 18 years and over, weighted to be representative of the 48 contiguous United States. A detailed report of each activity performed in the previous 24 hours was obtained. A score was created for each activity, by multiplying duration and intensity for each individual and summing across individuals. This score was then used to rank each activity according to its contribution to total population energy expenditure, for the total sample and separately for each gender, race, age, region, and season. RESULTS: This analysis reveals our society to be primarily sedentary; leisure time physical activity contributed only approximately 5% of the population's total energy expenditure. Not counting sleeping, the largest contributor to energy expenditure was "Driving a car", followed by "Office work" and "Watching TV". Household activities accounted for 20.1% and 33.3% of energy expenditure for males and females respectively. CONCLUSION: The information presented in this paper may be useful in identifying common activities that could be appropriate targets for behavioral interventions to increase physical activity.
Egalitarian Justice versus the Right to Privacy

In their celebrated essay “The Right to Privacy,” legal scholars Samuel Warren and Louis Brandeis identified as the generic privacy value “the right to be let alone.” This same phrase occurs in Justice Brandeis's dissent in Olmstead v. U.S. (1927). This characterization of privacy has been found objectionable by philosophers acting as conceptual police. For example, moral philosopher William Parent asserts that one can wrongfully fail to let another person alone in all sorts of ways—such as assault—that intuitively do not qualify as violations of privacy and thus cannot be violations of the right to privacy.
Congenital tracheocutaneous fistulas.

Objective To outline two cases of congenital tracheocutaneous fistula and discuss the potential pathogenesis of this previously unreported developmental abnormality. Methods Two cases of tracheocutaneous fistula evaluated at John Peter Smith Hospital (Fort Worth, TX) from May to October 2001 were reviewed. The surgical treatment of one infant is described. Results Two infants were evaluated with a congenital fistula extending from the suprasternal region of the neck dorsally to the trachea in the midline. The infants were otherwise developmentally normal with unremarkable prenatal histories. Primary surgical closure of a fistula was accomplished without complication. Conclusions Congenital tracheocutaneous fistula appears to be an isolated developmental abnormality not associated with the same degree of morbidity as acquired tracheocutaneous fistula. The development of a congenital tracheocutaneous fistula may be the result of abnormal epidermal migration secondary to a localized midline mesodermal defect. Congenital tracheocutaneous fistula may be successfully treated with primary closure. Observation and close follow-up of asymptomatic fistulas may be reasonable.
MUSTC-Testing: Multi-Stage-Combinational Test scheduling at the Register-Transfer Level

In this paper we discuss a new automatic test scheduling system for architectures that use separate control and data-paths. MUlti-STage-Combinational Testing (MUSTC-Testing) at the Register-Transfer Level significantly eases test generation and can be used in lieu of or to complement sequential test generation at the gate level. We provide a system with eleven signal types to perform test scheduling at the RT level which allows module level pre-computed test sets to be directly used for testing. A test scheduler is then described along with the results obtained.
Modeling Temporal Trends in Aphid Vector Dispersal and Cucumber Mosaic Virus Epidemics in Snap Bean

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) has become a major limiting factor in snap bean production in the Great Lakes region of North America, and epidemics have occurred more frequently since the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura, was introduced. Major aphid vectors of CMV epidemics were identified by statistically relating their temporal dispersal trends to the incidence of CMV. Alates were monitored weekly using water pan traps in 74 snap bean fields in New York and Pennsylvania from 2002 to 2006. Plants were tested for CMV by ELISA one time during late bloom in 2002 and 2003 and weekly over the season from 2004 to 2006. Principal vectors of CMV included Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris), A. glycines, Aphis gossypii Glover, and Therioaphis trifolii (Monell). Among these, A. glycines and T. trifolii were likely responsible for severe CMV epidemics because they were among the most abundant species captured, they efficiently transmit CMV, and their dispersal activity was positively correlated with periods when CMV incidence was highest. Moreover, because high numbers of A. glycines and T. trifolii disperse during July and August, snap bean fields planted beyond late June are at risk for infection during early vegetative stages and are subsequently more at risk for yield loss. In contrast, plantings up to late June are less likely to become infected during early developmental stages and should escape yield loss because major vectors are dispersing infrequently. CMV-resistant or tolerant snap bean varieties should be planted after late June to reduce the risk of yield loss.
Parents’ and Physicians’ Views on Antibiotics

Objective . To describe parents’ opinions and concerns about antibiotics and to contrast these opinions with those of pediatricians. Design . Parents were surveyed using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and pediatricians were mailed a self-administered questionnaire. Results . Parents from two private practices (N = 300) were largely white (84%) and had completed college (81%). The parents from a community health center (N = 100) were mostly black (80%) and had not completed college (91%). Twenty-nine percent of parents were worried that their children were receiving too many antibiotics. Eighty-five percent believed there were problems with receiving too many antibiotics, with 55% mentioning resistance or immunity as concerns. Eighteen percent of parents had given their child an antibiotic at home before consulting a physician. Parents believed that antibiotics were always or sometimes required for ear infections (93%), throat infections (83%), colds (32%), cough (58%), and fever (58%). Fourteen percent of parents believed that their child had required an antibiotic when the doctor did not prescribe one, with clinic parents significantly more likely to report this issue (22%) than private practice parents (12%). Nine percent believed that their doctor had prescribed an antibiotic unnecessarily (private practice = 12%, community health center = 3%). Parents from the private practices were also more likely to report requesting a specific antibiotic (34%) in comparison with 19% of clinic parents. Sixty-one percent of the physician surveys were returned after two mailings and a follow-up phone call. The pediatricians had been in practice for a median of 12 years, seeing a median of 110 patients per week. Fifty-eight percent of pediatricians reported that some, many, or most of the parents in their practices were worried that their children were receiving too many antibiotics. Seventy-one percent indicated that four or more times during the previous month, a parent had requested an antibiotic when the physician believed it was unnecessary, and 35% said that at least occasionally they went along with these requests. Sixty-one percent reported that parents requested a different antibiotic from the one they were going to prescribe at least four times in the previous month, and 30% of pediatricians said that they agreed to parents’ requests often or most of the time. Conclusions . Both the parent and the physician surveys suggest that parents are concerned about the overuse of antibiotics, but often request them when their physicians believe they are unnecessary. Parents often administer antibiotics without physician knowledge, and many parents have misconceptions about which illnesses warrant antibiotic therapy. Understanding parents’ concerns and beliefs about antibiotics and the range of physician practice styles with respect to antibiotics may direct the development of intervention strategies to reduce the inappropriate use of oral antibiotics. antibiotics, parents, pediatricians, resistance.
Rosamicin: Evaluation In Vitro and Comparison with Erythromycin and Lincomycin

Abstract Rosamicin is a new macrolide antibiotic produced by Micromonospora rosaria. It shares certain chemical and biological characteristics with erythromycin. Activity against gram-positive strains was assayed by broth dilution and compared to that of erythromycin and lincomycin. Rosamicin was bacteriostatic and inhibited most strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, enterococci, viridans streptococci, and group A streptococci in concentrations of 0.02 to 4.0 μg/ml. Results were similar for erythromycin and for lincomycin (excluding enterococci). Cross-resistance of gram-positive organisms to these three antimicrobial agents was incomplete. Rosamicin was more active than erythromycin against Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas at pH 7.2. Alkalinization of the medium enhanced the activity of both rosamicin and erythromycin; however, rosamicin was still more active than erythromycin against all gram-negative strains at pH 7.6 and 8.0. In view of the high degree of in vitro activity of rosamicin against gram-positive organisms, lack of complete cross-resistance with erythromycin and lincomycin, and the greater activity of rosamicin than erythromycin against gram-negative organisms, further investigation of this macrolide is warranted.
Growing reliable gate oxides on thick film SOI substrates

One of the key elements of a reliable CMOS process is a robust, defect free gate oxide. The formation of such layers on bulk substrates is a topic that has been studied for many years and has reached an advanced state of understanding. In contrast the growth of reliable gate oxides on either thick or thin film SOI substrates is considerably less well understood.This paper discusses the formation of gate oxides on thick film SOI substrates. Two topics have been covered in this study, long term reliability of the oxide and early life failure rate of the oxide. >
Stress effects on cotton leaf phytoalexins elicited by cell-free-mycelia extracts of Aspergillus flavus

Abstract The concentrations of five induced phytoalexins, lacinilene C, lacinilene C 7-methyl ether, scopoletin, 2-hydroxy-7-methoxycadalene, and 2,7-dihydroxycadalene, were determined in cotton leaves treated with cell-free mycelial extracts of Aspergillus flavus under a light regime of 14 hr light/10 hr dark and temperature cycles of25/20°, 30/25°, 35/30° and 40/35°. Maximum concentrations were present in plants maintained at a post-inoculation temperature regime of 30/25°. In a separate experiment, the concentrations of the same elicited phytoalexins were measured in cotton leaves treated with the fungal elicitor and maintained at different levels of plant moisture stress. Leaf moisture stress values less than -11.7 bars resulted in decreased production of the five cotton leaf phytoalexins determined two days after the fungal elicitor was applied.
Comparison of probe hybridization array typing to multilocus sequence typing for pathogenic Escherichia coli

Probe hybridization array typing (PHAT) is a previously validated, high-throughput, highly discriminatory binary typing method based on the presence or absence of genetic material. To increase the utility of PHAT, we identified a refined PHAT probe set using 24 known and potential Escherichia coli virulence genes, by which groups similar to multilocus sequence typing (MLST) clonal groups (CGs) could be determined. We PHAT typed 1,132 E. coli isolates, representing at least 62 MLST CGs and diverse disease states, using a “library-on-a-slide” microarray format. Using 24 PHAT probes, all 62 MLST CGs in the representative E. coli collection were distinguished. For major CGs, PHAT correctly classified all sequence types within CG7 and CG17 but misclassified between one and four sequence types for CG13, CG14, CG23, CG38, and CG58, giving an overall sensitivity and specificity of 80.4 and 98.7%, respectively. After application of the PHAT classification to the whole collection, MLST validation of the PHAT probe classification resulted in sensitivities from 0.0 to 100.0% and specificities from 75.0 to 100.0% for individual CGs and an overall sensitivity and specificity of 64.7 and 88.3%, respectively. The refined PHAT probe set is capable of classifying isolates into groups in a manner similar to major clonal complexes of MLST, indicating coevolution between the chromosomal background and the flexible gene pool. Further refinement is needed to distinguish between closely related groups. For analysis of large bacterial collections, PHAT is a relatively time- and cost-efficient method and is ideal for a first level of analysis.
Some Comments on Singular Value Decomposition Analysis

The singular value decomposition analysis (SVD) method is discussed in the context of the simultaneous orthogonal rotation of two matrices. It is demonstrated that the singular vectors are rotated EOFs and the SVD expansion coefficients are rotated sets of principal component expansion coefficients. This way of thinking about SVD aids in the interpretation of results and provides guidance as to when and how to use SVD.
ANNUAL REPRODUCTIVE CYCLE OF THE FEMALE HAWAIIAN MONK SEAL (MONACHUS SCHAUINSLANDI)

: The annual reproductive cycle is described for the adult female Hawaiian monk seal (Monachus schauinslandi) from data collected at Laysan Island (1982–1991) and Lisianski Island (1982–1983) in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Pupping, lactation, weaning, and molting were directly observed, while mating was rarely observed and was, therefore, inferred from the occurrence of mounting injuries and from adult male and female association patterns. Pooled birth rates during the study period were 0.544 for all adult-sized females and 0.675 for females parous in earlier years. For parturient females, pupping peaked in late March and early April, weaning in May, mounting injuries in May and June, and molting in July. For non-parturient females, the median mounting injury and molting dates occurred 17 and 28 days earlier, respectively. Pupping date set the timing of subsequent events in the annual cycle, but the timing of those events was adjusted by loss of the pup or poor physical condition of the female. Individual pupping patterns varied widely. The mean interval for births in consecutive years was 381 days; females that pupped in consecutive years gave birth later each season. Conversely, females who skipped a year or more gave birth earlier their next pupping season.
Uniform semistability for time-varying dynamical systems and network consensus with time-dependent communication links

This paper focuses on uniform semistability and uniform finite-time semistability for time-varying dynamical systems. Semistability is the property whereby the solutions of a dynamical system converge to Lyapunov stable equilibrium points determined by the system initial conditions. Using these results we develop a framework for designing semistable protocols in dynamical networks with time-dependent communication links. Specifically, we present distributed nonlinear time-varying control architectures for multiagent network consensus with dynamic communication links.
Functionalizing molecular wires: a tunable class of α,ω-diphenyl-μ,ν-dicyano-oligoenes

We describe the synthesis and characterization of a new class of cyano-functionalized oligoenes and their derivatives. We have made the vinylogous series of α,ω-diphenyl-μ,ν-dicyano-oligoenes (DPDCn) comprised of each odd-numbered member from 3 to 13 linear conjugated olefins. Installing cyano groups onto the oligoene backbone lowers HOMO and LUMO energies by up to ∼0.7 eV, thereby stabilizing the molecule with respect to oxidative decomposition; this exemplifies a new approach to the stabilization of conjugated oligoenes. UV-vis absorption spectra and redox potentials across the DPDCn series reveal that the molecular band gap ranges from 2.80 to 1.75 eV. This gap can be further tuned by the facile installation of a variety of aryl end-groups. The choice of end-groups also greatly affects the physical properties such as solubility and the solid-state packing. We also present the longest oligoene crystal structure reported to date. Moreover, we find that the prototypical linear structure makes oligoenes suitable as molecular wires and connectors in the bottom-up construction of nanoscale architectures. As a proof of concept, carboxylic acid terminated oligoenes were used to position 10-nm Fe3O4 nanoparticles on a GaAs (100) substrate.
Capsule Enhances Pneumococcal Colonization by Limiting Mucus-Mediated Clearance

Expression of a polysaccharide capsule is required for the full pathogenicity of many mucosal pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae. Although capsule allows for evasion of opsonization and subsequent phagocytosis during invasive infection, its role during mucosal colonization, the organism's commensal state, remains unknown. Using a mouse model, we demonstrate that unencapsulated mutants remain capable of nasal colonization but at a reduced density and duration compared to those of their encapsulated parent strains. This deficit in colonization was not due to increased susceptibility to opsonophagocytic clearance involving complement, antibody, or the influx of Ly-6G-positive cells, including neutrophils seen during carriage. Rather, unencapsulated mutants remain agglutinated within lumenal mucus and, thus, are less likely to transit to the epithelial surface where stable colonization occurs. Studies of in vitro binding to immobilized human airway mucus confirmed the inhibitory effect of encapsulation. Likewise, pneumococcal variants expressing larger amounts of negatively charged capsule per cell were less likely to adhere to surfaces coated with human mucus and more likely to evade initial clearance in vivo. Removal of negatively charged sialic acid residues by pretreatment of mucus with neuraminidase diminished the antiadhesive effect of encapsulation. This suggests that the inhibitory effect of encapsulation on mucus binding may be mediated by electrostatic repulsion and offers an explanation for the predominance of anionic polysaccharides among the diverse array of unique capsule types. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that capsule confers an advantage to mucosal pathogens distinct from its role in inhibition of opsonophagocytosis--escape from entrapment in lumenal mucus.