cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of molecular diversity in Crinipellis perniciosa with AFLP markers

Crinipellis perniciosa causes a serious disease of cacao known as witches’ broom (WB). Heritable resistance to witches’ broom has been used in cacao improvement programs. ‘SCA6’ and ‘SCA12’ are highly resistant and are the most commonly used parents in the breeding schemes. However, SCA hybrids are not resistant to witches’ broom in all production areas. Presumably, different populations of C. perniciosa cause these variable responses. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers were used to assess variation and population structure in this pathogen. We examined 40 isolates of C. perniciosa and one isolate of Melanotus subcuneiformis. Nine of 64 primer pairs produced consistent and informative DNA amplification, and were used to screen all isolates. Fifteen haplotypes (AFLP fingerprints) were detected with 186 polymorphic markers. Cluster analysis grouped isolates of the C biotype (pathogenic on cacao) from Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador and Trinidad together in a major cluster that was distinct from isolates of the S biotype (pathogenic on solanaceous hosts) and M. subcuneiformis. Isolates of the C biotype were divided further into well supported, country-specific groups. Segregation of AFLP alleles was not observed among basidiospore isolates from the same basidiome, broom, tree or field, supporting previous reports that the fungus did not outcross. The results corroborated prior conclusions that C. perniciosa was probably introduced into the Bahia state of Brazil from the Amazon basin. Representative isolates from the genetically distinct groups that were revealed will be used to examine pathogenic specialization in C. perniciosa and differential responses that have been reported in ‘SCA6’-derived germplasm.
Buckling of a heavy standing plate with top load

Buckling of a standing plate subjected to self weight and top load is studied. The vertical sides are simply supported and Levy separation yields an ordinary differential equation that is integrated by an accurate, efficient initial value method. Exact and asymptotic formulas are also found. The effects of self weight and top load both contribute to the buckling. Their contributions are not linear. For narrow plates, if top load dominates it does not matter whether an end is clamped or simply supported. If self weight dominates, the buckling of a narrow plate only depends on the bottom condition.
Assessment of attention threshold in rats by titration of visual cue duration during the five choice serial reaction time task

Background The 5 choice serial reaction time task (5CSRTT) is commonly used to assess attention in rodents. We sought to develop a variant of the 5CSRTT that would speed training to objective success criteria, and to test whether this variant could determine attention capability in each subject.
Acrylamide gel electrophoresis of housefly esterases

Abstract The esterases in extracts of one susceptible and six insecticideresistant strains of houseflies, Musca domestica L., were studied by acrylamide-gel electrophoresis, using alpha-naphthyl acetate as substrate. The results show that: (1) esterase patterns varied considerably between strains and within strains; (2) the esterases, except for one, acted as anions under these conditions; (3) not all of the esterases were mobilized in these experiments; and (4) no clear-cut, consistent differences were observed between resistant and susceptible flies. The results are discussed in relation to the research performed on the same species with other separation media and in relation to the resistance patterns of the housefly strains.
The cytoplasmic accumulations of the cataract-associated mutant, Connexin50P88S, are long-lived and form in the endoplasmic reticulum.

Mutant connexins have been linked to hereditary congenital cataracts. One such mutant causes a proline-to-serine substitution at position 88 in human connexin 50 (CX50P88S). In transfected cells, CX50P88S does not form gap junctions, but localizes in cytoplasmic multilamellar structures. We studied the dynamics of formation and the stability of these structures in HeLa cells stably transfected with CX50P88S containing a tetracysteine motif appended to its C-terminus (HeLa–CX50P88S(Cys)4 cells). The tetracysteine motif binds the membrane-permeable biarsenical compounds, FlAsH and ReAsH, which become fluorescent upon binding allowing detection of CX50P88S(Cys)4 by fluorescence microscopy or by transmission electron microscopy after the ReAsH-driven fluorescent photoconversion of diaminobenzidine. CX50P88S structures were long-lived. Pulse labeling of HeLa–CX50P88S(Cys)4 cells with FlAsH followed by a chase and ReAsH labeling showed a differential distribution of the labels, with older CX50P88S surrounded by newly synthesized protein. Formation of CX50P88S accumulations was not affected by treatments that block ER-to-Golgi transport. Transmission electron microscopy and tomographic reconstruction revealed that CX50P88S accumulations corresponded to closely apposed circular or semicircular membrane stacks that were sometimes continuous with the rough endoplasmic reticulum. These results suggest that CX50P88S accumulations originate from the rough endoplasmic reticulum and that mutant protein is sequentially added resulting in long-lived cytoplasmic particles. The persistence of these particles in the lens may cause light scattering and the pulverulent cataracts observed in affected individuals.
Modified polyol synthesis of bulk-scale nanostructured bismuth antimony telluride

Bismuth antimony telluride, Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3, is a prototype thermoelectric alloy for which nanostructuring has been shown to improve the thermoelectric figure of merit. Most bulk-scale nanostructured thermoelectric materials are synthesized using either traditional solid-state routes or “top-down” physical methods such as ball milling, sputtering, etc. “Bottom-up” chemical methods represent an important alternative route to nanostructured thermoelectrics, but often produce small sample sizes that make transport measurements difficult. Here, nanostructured Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 has been synthesized in half-gram quantities using a simple and scalable modified polyol process. Stoichiometric amounts of appropriate metal salts were combined in tetraethylene glycol with and without poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP), reduced with sodium borohydride, and heated in solution and in powder form to obtain samples of crystalline Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3. The structure, composition, and morphology of the products were characterized using powder XRD, TEM, SEM, and EDS mapping data. The Seebeck coefficient, measured from 300–500 K for 1 cm sintered pellets of Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3, increased with temperature and was found to be +256 µV K−1 at 500 K. Bulk-scale nanostructured powders of other thermoelectrics could also be synthesized, including Bi2Te3, PbTe, Sb2Te3, AgSbTe2, and Pb1−xSnxTe.
Investigating the astrophysically important Ex = 2.646 MeV state in 20Na

Abstract Observations of neon lines in the spectra of energetic novae have prompted a renewed look at explosive hydrogen burning. The 19Ne(p, γ)20Na reaction is expected to play a major role in the breakout of the hot CNO cycle to the rp-process, which can process CNO nuclei to heavier elements. The reaction rate is dominated by the lowest resonance in the 19Ne + p system, corresponding to the Ex = 2.646 MeV state in 20Na. A large variety of nuclear experimental techniques have been used to study this state; e.g. charge exchange reactions, β-delayed proton decay and radioactive beams. Their results have lead to a Jπ = 3+ assignment for this state [B. Brown et al., Phys. Rev. C 48 (1993) 1456], allowing an estimate of the proton width (Γp). This leaves the gamma width (Γγ) to be determined. We have performed 20Ne(3He, experiments to measure the branching ratio ( Γ γ Γ ) of the Ex = 2.646 MeV excited state in 20Na.
Effect of Vehicles and Other Active Ingredients on Stability of Hydrocortisone

The stability of hydrocortisone in various types of vehicles, aqueous, water-washable (polyethylene glycol ointment base), and oil in water or water in oil-type emulsified vehicles, and in the presence of other ingredients, iodochlorhydroxyquin, menthol, and phenol, was studied under normal conditions (room temperature and weakly acidic pH). The study was conducted using a stability-indicating assay method, high-pressure liquid chromatography. The hydrocortisone was very unstable in water and water-washable ointment base. The addition of alcohol and glycerin to water had a stabilizing effect. Under drastic conditions (very acidic or very basic pH), hydrocortisone proved to be unstable only on the basic side. The data at higher temperatures confirmed that the decomposition in water and polyethylene glycol was pseudo-first order. The decomposition process appears to be different in the highly basic solution versus weakly acidic media or in water versus polyethylene glycol ointment base.
A Transient Hardened Junction Isolated Bipolar Technology

The CDI variation has demonstrated that it can be hardened to transient ionizing radiation and will not latch-up. Furthermore, preliminary results indicate that it presently satisfies most neutron radiation requirements. The process involves only a minor variation from the conventional bipolar process, and that is the use of a p-type as opposed to an n-type epitaxial layer. It is unquestionably an easier process than the dielectric isolation process and should have the same defect density (but higher packing density) as the commercial bipolar technology. Further experiments will investigate the incorporation of Schottky clamps and both vertical p-n-p and n-p-n transistors for linear applications. Further transient and total dose radiation experiments are planned and the transient upset levels will be characterized. Presently, preliminary radiation and yield data indicate that this technology is a viable, reliable, and economical replacement for the dielectric isolated technology.
Use of a Collective Narrative Process to Articulate Practice-Based Advising Competencies.

A set of advising competencies was developed by a collective examination of actual practices among faculty and staff who provide advising services to adult learners. A storytelling methodology prov...
Current status of tests of carbaryl for reproductive and teratogenic effect

Abstract A 3-generation rat reproduction study with technical carbaryl (1-naphthyl methylcarbamate) added to the diet to provide daily doses up to 10 mg/kg resulted in no statistically significant, dose-related effect upon fertility, gestation, viability of pups or lactation. A rat teratogenic study with carbaryl added to the diet to provide daily doses up to 500 mg/kg resulted in no increase in teratogenic anomalies and no effect on fertility or gestation. Only at the highest dose was weight gain reduced; many pups in this group died before weaning from carbaryl-fed mothers. A rat reproduction study included groups receiving carbaryl in the diet at daily doses up to 200 mg/kg, while other groups concurrently received carbaryl by po intubation of doses up to 100 mg/kg/day. A dose of 100 mg/kg/day given by intubation before mating resulted in mortality, signs of cholinesterase inhibition and reduced fertility. None of these effects were seen in groups dosed in the diet. Reduction in growth at 100 mg/kg/day given by intubation was equivalent to that of 200 mg/kg/day given in the diet. Guidelines for an acceptable experimental design of studies to evaluate human risks are discussed in relation to published articles and unpublished reports on the effect of carbaryl on animal reproduction or teratology. Only 1 study other than the 3 reported here conformed to all the guidelines; in this study it was reported that no reproductive effects occurred in rats given 2000 ppm in the diet.
Crystallization in electric fields of a semiflexible copolymer: p-hydroxybenzoateethylene terephthalate

Abstract This work has studied crystallization in electric fields of a semiflexible polymer containing poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) segments. Electric (E) stimuli were found to either suppress or enhance PET crystallization depending on E-field strength. Over a relatively narrow field range the effect changes from suppression to enhancement of crystallinity. It is suggested that either inter-chain cooperative phenomena or electromechanical effects in the context of nucleation and/or growth may be affecting crystallization. For example, electrical alignment of rigid (mesogenic) segments in the copolymer structure leading to distension of the crystallizable and more flexible PET segments.
SU-E-T-416: Targeting Accuracy of a TrueBeam System for Multi-Lesion Cranial Radiosurgery with Single Isocenter

Purpose: To investigate the targeting accuracy of a Varian TrueBeam System for delivering intracranial radiosurgery to multiple lesions using a single isocenter (ISO). Methods: The study was performed using hidden target (BB) tests along with a MV portal imager (EPID). Six BBs were inserted into a head phantom simulating the locations of multiple metastatic tumors. One BB acted as the common ISO. The distances from the ISO to the other BBs were 2.9 to 7.1 cm. Simulating the actual patient treatment in our clinic, the phantom was immobilized using a BrainLAB U‐shape frame and a head mask. CT image was acquired with 1 mm slice thickness. For a selected couch, gantry and collimator angle combination, a 3×3 cm MLC‐shaped field was created for each BB. The centers of BB and the field were aligned, and the distance from the plan was read out on the DRR. Before shooting the tests, CBCT was used to setup the phantom, and the translational/rotational mismatch was corrected iteratively until less than 1 mm and 0.1 degree respectively. The actual positions of the BBs relative to their corresponding field centers were measured on the portal images. The deviation between the measured and planned BB positions quantifies the geometric targeting error. The test was performed for various couch, gantry and collimator angle combinations (total 88 tests). Results: The mean±SD of the BB position deviations were 0.0±0.4 and 0.2±0.4 mm in the image transverse‐and longitudinal‐direction respectively; and 0.5±0.3 mm for the vector length. Six of 88 BB tests (6.8%) exceeded the vector length of 1 mm with a maximum of 1.2 mm Conclusion: The mechanical targeting accuracy of the TrueBeam System at our institution is acceptable for delivery of intracranial radiosurgery with a single isocenter for treatment of multiple targets. Application of this technique is being investigated.
Low-temperature magnetic studies on various substituted rare earth (R)-transition metal (T) compounds RT5

Materials with partial substitution of the Co in SmCo$sub 5$ by the elements Ni, Pt, Cu, Ag, Al, In, Si, and Sn, were prepared and their structures identified. In a similar vein, Sm substitution by Zr in SmCo$sub 5$ was investigated as was Al substitution for Co in CeCo$sub 5$. Furthermore, results on Al substitution for Co in RCo$sub 5$ compounds, with R = Y, Gd, and Tb, are included. Stacking faults in the basal plane were observed in as-melted homogeneous compounds with Al and Si substitution for Co in SmCo$sub 5$. The magnetic properties of these materials, such as saturation moments and coercive forces, were investigated at 4.2$sup 0$K. Al and Si substitution for Co in SmCo$sub 5$ results in outstanding coercive forces of the order of 30 to 50 kOe in powder and bulk materials. All other systems were disappointing in terms of magnetic hardness. The origin of outstanding magnetic hardness is discussed in terms of a model of the pinning of extremely energetic domain walls on obstacles of atomic dimension.
[3′-32P]-labeling tRNA with nucleotidyltransferase for assaying aminoacylation and peptide bond formation

Abstract The analysis of reactions involving amino acids esterified to tRNAs traditionally uses radiolabeled amino acids. We describe here an alternative assay involving [3′- 32 P]-labeled tRNA followed by nuclease digestion and TLC analysis that permits aminoacylation to be monitored in an efficient, quantitative manner while circumventing many of the problems faced when using radiolabeled amino acids. We also describe a similar assay using [3′- 32 P]-labeled aa-tRNAs to determine the rate of peptide bond formation on the ribosome. This type of assay can also potentially be adapted to study other reactions involving an amino acid or peptide esterified to tRNA.
DMOBO: an improvement on the OBO orthoester protecting group.

Conversion of a carboxylic acid to an orthoester provides protection toward nucleophiles and strong bases. The addition of methyl substituents to the oxetane precursor of the commonly used [2.2.2]-bicyclic OBO orthoester significantly increased the ease of orthoester formation and its resistance to hydrolysis. NMR kinetics show the DMOBO protecting group is formed 85 times faster than the OBO group, and that its stability toward aqueous hydrolysis is 36 times greater. Nucleophilic attack of the ester carbonyl on the oxetane ring was shown by 18O-labeling to take place at the most substituted position.
The Impacts of an Antitrust Investigation: A Case Study in Agriculture

We analyze the impacts of an antitrust investigation on the purchasing practices of a buying collaboration and its common bidding agent. Using a repeated cross section of prices across procurement auctions that were and were not subjected to the investigation, we find that auction prices in the targeted auctions: (i) significantly increased as soon as the targets were made aware they were under investigation; (ii) remained higher as long as the investigation was open; and (iii) systematically declined to the same low pre-knowledge state after the closure of the investigation without prosecution. Finally, the counterfactual impact on auction prices by the removal of the common bidding agent and the demise of the buying collaboration at a later date was on par with the impacts of the investigation.
Pulmonary Resistance during Halothane Anesthesia is not Determined only by Airway Caliber

Studies of the effect of halothane on airway smooth muscle have used pulmonary resistance as an index of airway caliber. However, pulmonary resistance (RL) is the sum of airway resistance (Raw), which changes with airway caliber, and of tissue resistance (Rti), which depends on the pressure-volume hysteresis of the lung. To separate the effects of halothane on airway caliber from its possible effects on tissue pressure-volume hysteresis in the unstimulated lung and during bronchoconstriction, the authors measured both components of RL before and during vagus nerve stimulation in 12 dogs before and during halothane administration. Rti was always the major component of RL, constituting 77 +/- 14% (mean +/- SD) of RL before vagus nerve stimulation and 64 +/- 21% of RL during stimulation in the absence of halothane. Vagus nerve stimulation caused approximately equal increases in both Rti and Raw. Halothane attenuated the response of both Rti and Raw to vagus nerve stimulation in a dose-dependent fashion. At 1 MAC, the Rti response was 44 +/- 13% of its value before halothane administration and the Raw response was 32 +/- 12% of its value before halothane administration; these responses were not significantly different. The authors conclude that changes in RL during halothane administration are caused not only by changes in airway caliber, as previously assumed, but also reflect a significant effect of halothane on lung tissue pressure-volume hysteresis.
Interspike interval method to compute speech signals from neural firing

Auditory perception neurons also called inner hair cells (IHC) transform the mechanical movements of the basilar membrane into electrical impulses. The impulse coding of the neurons is the main information carrier in the auditory process and is the basis for improvements of cochlea implants as well as for low rate, high quality speech processing and compression. This paper shows how to compute the speech signal from the neural firing based on the analysis of the interspike interval histogram. This new approach solves problems which other standard analysis methods do no solve sufficiently well.
Nitric oxide and prostacyclin in ultrasonic vasodilatation of the canine internal mammary artery

Abstract Background Investigators recently demonstrated increased free blood flow from radial artery free grafts harvested using ultrasonic technology. We investigated the mechanism underlying this phenomenon. Methods Canine internal mammary artery segments (with and without intact endothelium) were precontracted with norepinephrine and sonicated 3 seconds in organ chambers with ultrasonic coagulating shears (Harmonic Scalpel; Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Cincinnati, OH) functioning at level 2. Vessel tension was continuously measured to examine vasoactivity in response to sonication alone (control) or with N u -Nitro-l-arginine (l-NNA) and indomethacin added to the chamber medium individually or in combination. Tissue heating, acoustic pressure, and endothelial damage as detected by scanning electron micrography were also assessed. Results In vitro sonication with the Harmonic Scalpel induced predominately endothelium-dependent internal mammary artery vasorelaxation but a small endothelium-independent contribution was also observed. Early vasorelaxation (1 minute after stimulus) was maximally inhibited by l-NNA alone and in combination with indomethacin. Relaxation during this period was insignificantly affected by indomethacin alone. Only the combination of l-NNA and indomethacin maximally inhibited late vasorelaxation (5 minutes after stimulus), whereas inhibitory effects of l-NNA diminished during this time period. Indomethacin inhibited relaxation substantially during this phase, although significantly less than did l-NNA alone. The Harmonic Scalpel minimally heated the tissue surface (0.3 ± 0.03°C) and did not disrupt endothelial cell integrity while operating at 50 mW/cm 2 intensity (acoustic pressure 40 kPa). Conclusions Sonication induces vasorelaxation almost completely by time-dependent endothelial nitric oxide and prostacyclin release, which appears unrelated to tissue heating or endothelial architectural disruption.
Why "On Denoting"?

A recent trend in Russell scholarship has been towards the thesis that, contrary to his own recollections, Bertrand Russell really didn’t need the 1905 theory of descriptions to deflate an excessive ontology, because (1) there was no excessive ontology in The Principles of Mathematics , at least not one with golden mountains and the like, and so (2) Russell’s real motive, at least his main one, was not ontological but rather was to replace the incoherent sense–reference distinction on which the old theory of denoting depended. I want to gently dispute that thesis by showing that Russell’s old theory in the Principles was ambivalent on ontic commitment to non-existent things and it could not give an adequate account of the central problem which Russell faced before “On Denoting”, viz. our apparent discourse—including our ability to make true and false propositions—about non-existent things. I also show briefly how the new theory solves the old problem.
A Modular Approach to Synthetic RNA Binders of the Hepatitis C Virus Internal Ribosome Entry Site

Natural products that target the RNA components of bacterial ribosomes, and thereby act as antibiotics that shut down microbial protein synthesis, have provided a rich source of inspiration for the design and synthesis of small molecule ligands directed at RNA targets.[1, 2] A prominent example of a privileged scaffold for RNA recognition occurring in natural aminoglycoside antibiotics is 2-deoxystreptamine (2-DOS),[3] which contains a rigid framework of hydrogen bond donors among which the rigid cis-1,3 arrangement of amino groups is responsible for selective interaction with structural motifs in RNA targets (Figure 1).[4] In an approach to reduce the complexity of chemical library synthesis involving the highly functionalized 2-DOS scaffold, we have recently developed the 3,5-diaminopiperidine heterocycle (DAP) as a structural mimetic of the RNA-recognizing pharmacophore of the 2-DOS scaffold (Figure 1). Structure-guided design had been applied to discover a series of antibacterial DAP-triazine derivatives that act on the same ribosomal RNA target as the natural aminoglycoside antibiotics which initially served as the inspiration for the conception of the DAP compounds.[5, 6]
A Shared Autonomy Interface for Household Devices

As robots begin to enter our homes and workplaces, they will have to deal with the devices and appliances that are already there. Unfortunately, devices that are easy for humans to operate often cause problems for robots [3]. In teleoperation settings, the lack of tactile feedback often makes manipulation of buttons and switches awkward and clumsy [7]. Also, the robot's gripper often occludes the control, making teleoperation difficult. In the autonomous setting, perception of small buttons and switches is often difficult due to sensor limitations and poor lighting conditions. Adding depth information does not help much, since many of the controls we want to manipulate are small, and often close to the noise threshold of currently-available depth sensors typically installed on a mobile robot. This makes it extremely difficult to segment the controls from the other parts of the device. In this paper, we present a shared autonomy approach to the operation of physical device controls. A human operator gives high-level guidance, helps identify controls and their locations, and sequences the actions of the robot. Autonomous software on our robot performs the lower-level actions that require closed-loop control, and estimates the exact positions and parameters of controls. We describe the overall system, and then give the results of our initial evaluations, which suggest that the system is effective in operating the controls on a physical device.
Dynamic optical breast imaging for neoadjuvant therapy monitoring

Near-infrared optical measurements have been shown to offer a promising non-invasive way for monitoring breast neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and predicting outcome. In this study, we extend optical measurements to capture additional hemodynamic and metabolic biomarkers revealed by dynamically imaging breast tissue during fractional mammographic compression. We are obtaining pre-treatment, day 7 and optional monthly scans in breast cancer patients undergoing NAC. The difference in hemodynamic response to compression between healthy and tumor-bearing breast decreases over the course of neoadjuvant therapy in responders compared to nearly no change in patients not responding to the chemotherapy.
Activation analysis of gold-bearing scrap solders

Abstract Neutron activation analysis is used to meet the metallurgical research requirements for the rapid, non-destructive, analysis of SnPb solders to which Al has been added to effect a phase separation of Au. The 2·8-MeV neutrons from the (D, d) reaction are used to activate Au. although this reaction is interference-free, the relatively low neutron flux precludes detection of Au below ∼ 50 ppm. The other elements of interest (Sn, Pb, Al and Sb) are determined by the use of 14·8-MeV neutrons. Three separate irradiations are necessary to take advantage of the half-life differences in the radio nuclides produced and thereby achieve a direct instrumental analysis of the four elements. If only Au and Al are to be determined, approximately 24 solder samples can be analyzed per day, but if all five elements are to be determined, 2 additional days are needed to complete the analysis.
Sitting time and health outcomes among Mexican origin adults: obesity as a mediator

Sitting time and sedentary behaviors have been associated with adverse health outcomes including obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) within non- Hispanic White populations. Similar associations have not been described within Hispanic populations despite their high CVD risk profile. This study aimed to assess the association between sitting time and obesity, self-reported diagnosed diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol among a large cohort (N=11,268) of Mexican origin adults and to assess whether obesity mediated these associations. Using a cross-sectional design, data collected between 2004 and 2010 were analyzed in late 2010. Regression analyses evaluated associations between self-reported daily sitting hours and disease outcomes, controlling for demographics, employment status, family disease history, and light, moderate and strenuous physical activity. Participants were mostly female (81.1%) Mexican origin adults. Sitting time was associated with increased odds of being obese, having diabetes and having hypertension, but not high cholesterol. Adjusted odds ratios of participants who reported sitting > 4 hours/day compared to those sitting 1-2 hours/day were for obesity OR=1.55 (95% CI 1.39, 1.73), p<.001, for diabetes OR=1.29 (95% CI, 1.09, 1.52), p=.003, for hypertension OR=1.17 (95% CI, 1.01, 1.37), p=.041. Associations controlled for physical activity and employment status. Effects on hypertension and diabetes were mediated by obesity. Sitting time was significantly associated with detrimental health outcomes, independent of physical activity. Obesity mediated these relationships for diabetes and hypertension. Future research should assess whether interventions addressing sitting time are feasible and effective among Mexican origin populations.
Evaluation of Strawberry Cultivars in Florida

Field studies were conducted over two seasons to examine the performance of strawberry cultivars. During the 2007–2008 season, the cultivars tested were ‘Winter Dawn’, ‘Florida Elyana’, ‘Florida Radiance’, ‘Ruby Gem’, ‘Strawberry Festival’, ‘Treasure’, and ‘Camarosa’; whereas in the 2008–2009 season, ‘Winter Dawn’, ‘Florida Elyana’, ‘Florida Radiance’, ‘Strawberry Festival’, ‘Treasure’, ‘FL 05–73’, and ‘FL 05–107’ were planted. During both growing seasons, ‘Strawberry Festival’ consistently produced the highest early and total fruit numbers among all tested cultivars. Similarly, the same cultivar had the highest early fruit weight. With regards to total fruit weight, ‘Florida Radiance’, ‘Treasure’, and ‘Strawberry Festival’ resulted in the highest values among all cultivars tested during both seasons. There was no consistency on specific cultivars producing the largest early fruit, while ‘Florida Radiance’ and ‘Florida Elyana’ had the largest total weight per fruit during both seasons. These results indic...
Chlorpromazine effects upon rabbit lens water and electrolyte balance

Chlorpromazine (CPZ) concentrations of 5 x 10(-5)M or greater were found to disrupt lens electrolyte and water balance significantly. Lens sodium and calcium levels increased while potassium decreased. These changes were accompanied by water accumulation. Such effects of CPZ were not dependent upon exposure to ultraviolet light. Electrical measurements revealed that CPZ induced depolarization of the lens potential but little change of overall lens conductance. 86Rb efflux from the lens was unaltered by a 1 hr exposure to CPZ. The active sodium pump in the lens was inhibited by CPZ, as evidenced by a reduction in Na- K-ATPase activity.
The Meaning of Non-Combatant Immunity in the Just War/Limited War Tradition

N commenting on a passage of Robert W. Tucker's which discusses the possible distinction between combatants and non-combatants in war, Paul Ramsey remarks, "It is significant that the memory of this distinction is still alive in American doctrine .... ."1 In the passage which evokes this judgment from Ramsey, Tucker explores and then discards the possibility of a distinction based on treatment of individuals as individuals. Ramsey does not quarrel with Tucker's rejection of any distinction of this kind because, as he argues in various places, the differentiation between combatant and non-combatant in a charity-based just war doctrine (such as his own) truly comes at the point of considering the function of persons vis-d-vis the war.2 If a person is materially cooperating in the prosecution of the war, he is to be classed as a combatant and treated as such. Besides soldiers, whom everyone agrees are combatants, Ramsey includes in this class "persons in command positions... even though they wear tweed suits" and all civilians who are close in material cooperation.3 Elsewhere, however, he is concerned only with the fact that there exist non-combatants in a place to be attacked or mixed inextricably with a group of combatants such as soldiers in uniform.4 The Christian teaching on just war not only permits Christians to participate in wars which meet criteria of justice; it also limits their participation. This, Ramsey argues, is the locus from which comes the distinction between combatants and non-combatants.5
Political corruption, economy, and citizens' evaluation of democracy in South Korea

South Korean politics has been haunted by numerous corruption scandals as well as the prosecution of politicians and their cronies for their corruption. Yet despite the prevalence and salience of political corruption, many citizens of South Korea tend to overlook the problem by continuing to support corrupt politicians and administrations. This study defines under what circumstances political corruption shapes citizens' judgment of government and the political system as a whole in South Korea. The results indicate that national economic conditions as a perceptual screen mediate the effect of political corruption on the evaluation of democratic governance.
Energetics of oxide nanoparticles

New calorimetric techniques enable the measurement of surface enthalpies and phase transformation enthalpies of oxide nanoparticles. These experimental values can benchmark theoretical calculations. A complex and delicate balance of energies of phase transformation, surfaces, and hydration leads to crossovers in thermodynamic stability of polymorphs at the nanoscale. ZnO and TiO2 are discussed in detail as examples. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Resistivity anomalies and phase transitions in alkali-metal graphite intercalation compounds

Abstract We have observed a number of resistivity anomalies in the temperature range 77 – 360 K in the graphite intercalation compounds of K, Rb and Cs in low stages ( n = 2, 3, 4; stoichiometry C 12 n M). The anomalies consist of sharp rises in the resistivity of between 3 and 12 percent as the sample is warmed through temperature intervals as small as 0.5 K. Two such anomalies are present in most compounds. Possible sources of the anomalies are discussed, including order-disorder transitions, coexistent phases, and saddle point-type charge density waves.
Artificial selection on JHE activity in Gryllus assimilis: Nature of activity differences between lines and effect on JH binding and metabolism

Genetic lines of the cricket Gryllus assimilis selected for elevated vs. decreased activity of hemolymph juvenile hormone esterase (JHE) exhibited a 6.8-fold difference in enzyme activity by the seventh generation of selection. This documents that hemolymph JHE activity has the capability for rapid evolutionary change. This is the only insect endocrine trait for which such data are currently available. The difference in hemolymph JHE activity between the lines was due, to an equivalent degree, to variation in whole-cricket enzyme activity and allocation of JHE activity to the hemolymph compartment. No differences in kinetic or thermostability characteristics were observed between JHEs from the high- vs. low-selected lines. This suggests that the variation in JHE activity between the lines resulted from selection of variable regulatory genetic factors affecting the synthesis, degradation, or activation of enzyme activity. JHE and JHbinding activity in the hemolymph are genetically correlated, possibly due to co-regulation by the same genetic factors. Finally, in vivo JH degradation was significantly elevated in lines selected for elevated JHE activity. This documents that evolutionary changes in JHE activity alter in vivo JH metabolism.
A fast 10v diode quarter square multiplier

This report describes the design and performance of a fast wideband quarter-square diode multiplier de signed to work with the ±10-v low-impedance com puting circuits of a high-speed iterative differential analyzer (ASTRAC II), or in other hybrid analog- digital computer systems. To reduce cost, the new multiplier employs absolute-value squaring circuits and does not require committed computer ampli fiers. Improved combination shunt-series switching circuits and low resistance values ensure wide band width (±0.5% of half-scale dynamic error at 10 Kc, <1 degree phase shift below 70 Kc). Temperature- compensating diodes in the bias networks reduce thermal drift below 0.7 mv/°C, so that the multiplier static accuracy of ±0.20% of half-scale is maintained from 15 to 40° C. A number of useful design hints are listed.
Correlation of detergency with physicochemical factors

It is felt that it would be of interest to conclude this paper by showing some of the correlations already established for selected soil-surfactant series of systems, with particular reference to the variation of the linearity constants K1 and K2 of these systems with corresponding soil or surfactant physicochemical factors. Table IX gives the detergency functions for these multi-soil, common surfactant, and multi-surfactant, common soil, series of systems.
Double electron excitation and the Glauber theory

The electron excitation cross sections for $\mathrm{He} (1{s}^{2}^{1}S\ensuremath{\rightarrow}2{p}^{2}^{3}P)$, $\mathrm{Mg} (3{s}^{2}^{1}S\ensuremath{\rightarrow}3{p}^{2}^{3}P)$, and $\mathrm{Ca} (4{s}^{2}^{1}S\ensuremath{\rightarrow}4{p}^{2}^{3}P)$ have been calculated with the use of the Ochkur, Glauber, and a simplified Glauber approximation. The results are compared with the Born-Oppenheimer approximation and, in the case of helium, with available experimental data. The Glauber and simplified Glauber approximations are found to differ significantly from the Born-Oppenheimer approximation, especially in the high-energy limit.
Staging Studies for Cutaneous Melanoma in the United States: A Population-Based Analysis

Routine cross-sectional imaging for staging of early-stage cutaneous melanoma is not recommended. This study sought to investigate the use of imaging for staging of cutaneous melanoma in the United States. Patients with nonmetastatic cutaneous melanoma newly diagnosed between 2000 and 2007 were identified from the Surveillance Epidemiology End Results-Medicare registry. Any imaging study performed within 90 days after diagnosis was considered a staging study. The study identified 25,643 patients, 3,116 (12.2 %) of whom underwent cross-sectional imaging: positron emission tomography (PET) (7.2 %), computed tomography (CT) (5.9 %), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (0.6 %). From 2000 to 2007, the use of cross-sectional imaging increased from 8.7 to 16.1 % (p < 0.001), driven predominantly by increased usage of PET (4.2–12.1 %). Stratification by T and N classification showed that cross-sectional imaging was used for 8.6 % of T1, 14.3 % of T2, 18.6 % of T3, and 26.7 % of T4 tumors (p < 0.001) and for 33.3 % of node-positive patients versus 11.1 % of node-negative patients (p < 0.001). Factors predictive of cross-sectional imaging included T classification [odds ratio (OR) for T4 vs T1, 2.66; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 2.33–3.03], node positivity (OR 2.70; 95 % CI 2.36–3.10), more recent year of diagnosis (OR 2.05 for 2007 vs 2000; 95 % CI 1.74–2.42), atypical histology, and non-Caucasian race (OR 1.32; 95 % CI 1.02–1.73). The use of cross-sectional imaging for staging of early-stage cutaneous melanoma is increasing in the Medicare population. Better dissemination of guidelines and judicious use of imaging should be encouraged.
A method for constructing an intertemporal utility function from a Friedmanian consumption function

Abstract It is shown that the intertemporal utility function can be reconstructed from data on demands if they are restricted to be linear in wealth, or Friedmanian.
Model for estimating the penetration depth limit of the time-reversed ultrasonically encoded optical focusing technique.

The time-reversed ultrasonically encoded (TRUE) optical focusing technique is a method that is capable of focusing light deep within a scattering medium. This theoretical study aims to explore the depth limits of the TRUE technique for biological tissues in the context of two primary constraints – the safety limit of the incident light fluence and a limited TRUE’s recording time (assumed to be 1 ms), as dynamic scatterer movements in a living sample can break the time-reversal scattering symmetry. Our numerical simulation indicates that TRUE has the potential to render an optical focus with a peak-to-background ratio of ~2 at a depth of ~103 mm at wavelength of 800 nm in a phantom with tissue scattering characteristics. This study sheds light on the allocation of photon budget in each step of the TRUE technique, the impact of low signal on the phase measurement error, and the eventual impact of the phase measurement error on the strength of the TRUE optical focus.
OR Forum—Blotto Politics

This paper considers abstract election games motivated by the United States Electoral College. There are two political parties, and the electoral votes in each state go to the party that spends the most money there, with an adjustment for a “head start” that one party or the other may have in that state. The states have unequal numbers of electoral votes, and elections are decided by majority rules. Each party has a known budget, and much depends on the information that informs how that budget is spent. Three situations are considered: (1) one party's spending plan is known to the other, (2) spending is gradually revealed as the parties spend continuously in time, and (3) neither side knows anything about the other's spending. The last situation resembles a Blotto game, hence the title.
Densely packed optoelectronic interconnect using micromachined springs

We demonstrate a novel optoelectronic packaging technology interconnecting 200 element independently addressable vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser arrays on 6-/spl mu/m pitch to silicon driver chips with equally dense output lines. The room-temperature flip-chip process utilizes micromachined cantilevers for establishing electrical contact. Thermal cycling and thermal shock tests show excellent package reliability.
Conduits for Coronary Bypass: Vein Grafts

The saphenous vein has been the principal conduit for coronary bypass grafting from the beginning, circa 1970. This report briefly traces this history and concomitantly presents one surgeons experience and personal views on use of the vein graft. As such it is not exhaustive but meant to be practical with a modest number of references. The focus is that of providing guidance and perspective which may be at variance with that of others and recognizing that there may be many ways to accomplish the task at hand. Hopefully the surgeon in training/early career may find this instructive on the journey to surgical maturity.
México como potencia mediana; una perspectiva histórica

Se analiza el papel de Mexico como potencia mediana en el Caribe y Centroamerica, mismo que ha consistido en rechazar la intervencion de Estados Unidos en la zona y en dar muestras de su riqueza relativa, en comparacion con sus vecinos mas pequenos. Enfrentar la influencia estadunidense ha sido tan solo una de las preocupaciones del gobiemo mexicano; tanto o mas importantes han sido los asuntos bilaterales y la politica domestica para definir su posicion como potencia mediana.
Social Class and Campus Dating

About 30 years ago, there began to appear in the sociological literature accounts of dating practices on college campuses. Although earlier writers had mentioned the same phenomenon, it was a 1937 journal article by Willard Waller that has come to epitomize this early literature on campus dating customs.' Waller reported that the older accepted code of a courtship system that led to formal engagement and marriage in a predictable fashion had decayed and was being replaced by a thrill seeking and exploitive type of relationship which was not integrated with marriage. This new type of relationship was a dalliance relationship, needed to fill in the time it took to get a college education and establish oneself financially. Connected with this type of dating was the "rating-dating complex" which was a set of customs that established one's prestige on campus and which in turn determined one's dating desirability. The key prestige variables were things like popularity, access to cars and money, and belonging to the best Greek organizations. Serious, marriage oriented dating did not involve these prestige ratings. Thus, such prestige rating-and-dating was not viewed as "true" courtship. This campus dating system was discerned by Waller at the Pennsylvania State University in the early 1930's and was documented by discussion and interviews with students.
Mathematical transformation of Petri-nets for development of parallel/distributed programs

A novel approach for visually specifying parallel/distributed software using extended Petri-nets (PNS) is investigated. The approach is demonstrated to be useful in the specification of decision-making activities that control distributed computing systems. PNs are employed because of their highly visual nature that can give insight into the nature of the controller of such a system and because of their well-known analytical properties. In order to increase the expressive power of PNs, the extension of transition enabling functions is used. The main focus is a set of automatic transformations derived to transform such an extended net into a basic PN. Then, well-known analytical methods can be used to investigate characteristic properties of the system and validate correct operation. A graphical programming tool (XPAT) has been built to automate the visual programming process as well as the transformations. >
Nuclear Exclusion of the HIV-1 Host Defense Factor APOBEC3G Requires a Novel Cytoplasmic Retention Signal and Is Not Dependent on RNA Binding

Human APOBEC3G (hA3G) is a host factor that defends against HIV-1 as well as other exogenous retroviruses and endogenous retroelements. To this end, hA3G is restricted to the cytoplasm of T lymphocytes where it interacts with viral RNA and proteins to assemble with viral particles causing a post-entry block during reverse transcription. hA3G also exhibits a mechanism to inhibit the reverse transcription of retroelements by RNA binding and sequestration into mRNA processing centers in the cytoplasm. We have determined that the molecular basis for this specialized property of hA3G is a novel cytoplasmic retention signal (CRS) that is necessary and sufficient to restrict wild-type hA3G and chimeric constructs to the cytoplasm. The CRS resides within amino acids 113–128 and is embedded within a basic flanking sequence and does not require RNA binding to retain hA3G in the cytoplasm. Paralogs of hA3G that have nuclear or cytoplasmic distributions differ from hA3G within the region encompassing the CRS motif with respect to charge and amino acid composition. We propose that the CRS enables hA3G to interact with cytoplasmic factors, and thereby enables hA3G to serve in host cell defense by restricting an antiviral sentinel to the cytoplasm. The CRS lies in a region involved in both Gag and Vif interactions; therefore, identification of this motif has important implications for the design of therapeutics that target HIV-1 while maintaining antiviral and cellular functions.