Estimating the seed content of Vitis vinifera cv. Gewürztraminer berries by two parameters related with the fecundation process

The presence of a developed endosperm in a grape berry has been suggested to be a sufficient condition for berry set. The development of both, endosperm and embryo, leads to the formation of a seed and a grapevine flower usually contains 4 ovules. Taking this into account, a probabilistic approach has been used to study the seed content of Gewürztraminer berries in different plots in Alsace (France) over 7 years. The estimation of two probabilities, in relation with the development of the endosperm and the embryo, gives a good estimation of 5 variables (percentage of berries with 0 to 4 seeds). Knowing the number of flowers per shoot, this model explains 98 % of the variability of the number of berries per shoot and 99 % of the variability of the number of seeds per shoot between the years

Symbolic Algorithms for Language Equivalence and Kleene Algebra with Tests

We first propose algorithms for checking language equivalence of finite automata over a large alphabet. We use symbolic automata, where the transition function is compactly represented using a (multi-terminal) binary decision diagrams (BDD). The key idea consists in computing a bisimulation by exploring reachable pairs symbolically, so as to avoid redundancies. This idea can be combined with already existing optimisations, and we show in particular a nice integration with the disjoint sets forest data-structure from Hopcroft and Karp's standard algorithm. Then we consider Kleene algebra with tests (KAT), an algebraic theory that can be used for verification in various domains ranging from compiler optimisation to network programming analysis. This theory is decidable by reduction to language equivalence of automata on guarded strings, a particular kind of automata that have exponentially large alphabets. We propose several methods allowing to construct symbolic automata out of KAT expressions, based either on Brzozowski's derivatives or standard automata constructions. All in all, this results in efficient algorithms for deciding equivalence of KAT expressions

French consumer preferences reveal a potential for segmentation in carrot

Gustatory differentiation is one possible means of segmentation. Consumer preferences of carrot were studied within the framework of the CosiVeg project. The characteristics of batches offered for consumer assessment enables their preferences to be evaluated. In preparation for a hedonic test of raw grated carrots that was carried out in autumn 2011, the carrot sensory space was studied in 2010 using 48 batches that were evaluated using quantative descriptive sensory analysis. The cultivars were representative of different types, Nantais, Imperator, Flakkee, coloured carrots and genetic resources. . Significant differences were observed for all criteria, allowing varieties to be grouped based on their sensory characteristics. Texture, flavor and aroma contribute to the “identity” of carrots. Overall aroma is correlated with perceptions of bitterness, sharpness and chemical aroma. Fourteen orange carrot varieties were selected for sowing in 2011. In 2010, although maximum scores were obtained for pungent and bitter attributes, this was not the case in 2011. In spite of this, the selected batches allowed the different profiles of the sensory characteristics of the carrots to be determined. Ten batches of carrot that represented a wide range of variability were tasted by a trained panel as well as a consumer panel; the product was presented as raw grated carrot. The sensory measurements obtained were used to map preferences, underlining preferences for a carrot that is juicy, aromatic and sweet. However bitter and chemical flavour carrots were not appreciated. Three types of consumer exist each having different expectations in terms of quality. Almost 20 % of people questioned are looking for a high quality product, for 33 % of consumers carrots are a staple food and they have no specific expectations and 48 % are satisfied with the current product but are potentially interested by a product that would distinguish itself as regards to quality. It means that segmentation with a high gustatory quality will be of interest for one consumer for 5

CPT and Quantum Mechanics Tests with Kaons: Theory

In this talk I review theoretical motivations for possible CPT Violation and deviations from ordinary quantum mechanical behavior of field theoretic systems in some quantum gravity models, and I describe the relevant precision tests using neutral and charged Kaons. I emphasize the possibly unique role of neutral-meson factories in providing specific tests of models in which the CPT operator is not well-defined, leading to modifications of Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen (EPR) particle correlators.Comment: Invited talk at BEACH2006 Conference (Lancaster Univ., UK, July 2-8 2006), 4 pages LaTeX, 2 eps figures incorporate

Assessing the genetic diversity and the temporal evolution of plant populations for an optimized conservation: the example of the tuberous-rooted chervil.

International audienc

Impact of passive and active promotional strategies on patient acceptance of medication therapy management services

Objectives To assess the impact of passive and active promotional strategies on patient acceptance of medication therapy management (MTM) services, and to identify reasons for patient acceptance or refusal. Methods Four promotional approaches were developed to offer MTM services to eligible patients, including letters and bag stuffers (“passive” approaches), and face-to-face offers and telephone calls (“active” approaches). Thirty pharmacies in a grocery store chain were randomized to one of the four approaches. Patient acceptance rates were compared among the four groups, and between active and passive approaches using hierarchical logistic regression techniques. Depending on their decision to accept or decline the service, patients were invited to take part in one of two brief telephone surveys. Results No significant differences were identified among the four promotional methods or between active and passive methods in the analyses. Patients’ most frequent reasons for accepting MTM services were potential cost savings, review of how the medications were working, the expert opinion of the pharmacist, and education about medications. Patients’ most frequent reasons for declining MTM services were that the participant already felt comfortable with their medications and felt their pharmacist provides these services on a regular basis. Conclusion No significant difference was found among any of the four groups or between active or passive approaches. Further research is warranted to identify strategies for improving patient engagement in MTM services