The frequency of chromosomal aberrations in peripheral blood predicts a probable cancer risk. The individual telomere length and methylation of repetitive elements may be susceptibility factors for chromosomal aberrations. A cohort of healthy Norwegian men (N = 364) recruited during 1980–1999 were analyzed for chromosomal aberrations in phytohemagglutinin‐stimulated lymphocytes from peripheral blood. Chromosome‐type or chromatid‐type aberrations were scored. DNA was extracted from slides cytogenetically analyzed and relative average telomere length and methylation of LINE1 repeats were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and bisulfite pyrosequencing, respectively. Information about individuals with malignant tumors (N = 49) diagnosed after chromosomal aberrations testing until end of 2008 was obtained and two matched controls per case were used in a nested case–control analysis. Shorter relative telomere length and higher methylation of LINE1 were associated with higher frequency of total chromosomal aberrations (β = −0.76, P = 0.022; and β = 0.042, P = 0.048, respectively; age‐adjusted ordinal regression). The telomere length was stronger associated with chromosome‐type (β = −1.00, P = 0.006) than with chromatid‐type aberrations (β = −0.49, P = 0.115). The LINE1 methylation was stronger associated with chromatid‐type (β = 0.062, P = 0.003) than with chromosome‐type aberrations (β = 0.018, P = 0.41). Telomere length [individuals with short telomeres odds ratio (OR) = 0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38–2.0], LINE1 (individuals with high methylation OR = 1.04, 95% CI 0.43–2.5) and chromosomal aberrations (individuals with high frequency OR = 1.6, 95% CI 0.63–3.9) at baseline did not predict cancer risk, but the conclusions were hampered by low statistical precision. The results suggest that shorter telomere length and higher LINE1 methylation in peripheral blood lymphocytes are predisposition factors for increased frequency of chromosomal aberrations. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.


The main objective of this study is to develop an ultrasound-assisted distillation process that can break minimum boiling azeotropes under various operating conditions for enhancing the effectiveness of distillation processes in providing solution to high purity separation requirement. As a case study, ethanol/ethyl acetate (ETOH/ETAC) separation process was considered. The effect of both intensity and frequency of the ultrasonic waves on the vapor–liquid equilibrium (VLE) of this system was experimentally studied. The sonication was found to affect the VLE significantly in a way which led to an alteration in the relative volatility and a complete elimination of the azeotropic point, with the preference towards a combination of low frequency and high intensity operation. A mathematical model describing the system was developed based on conservation principles, VLE of the system and sonication effects. The model, which took into account a single-stage VLE system enhanced with ultrasonic waves, was coded using the Aspen Custom Modeler. The effects of ultrasonic waves on the relative volatility and azeotropic point were examined and the experimental data were successfully used in validating the model with a reasonable accuracy. The mathematical model was exported to the Aspen Plus to form a model that represents the sonication equilibrium stages, which were connected serially to configure an ultrasound-assisted distillation (UAD) process for separation of ETOH/ETAC mixture. The simulation results revealed that ETAC can be recovered from the azeotropic mixture with a purity of 99 mol% using 27 sonication stages. To validate the suitability of UAD process for separation of other minimum boiling azeotropes, separation of other mixtures were tested such as ethanol/water, methanol/methyl acetate and nbutanol/ water. The developed model was found to have some limitations with respect to separation of maximum boiling azeotropes.


PURPOSE: Raman spectroscopy is an optical imaging technique used to characterize tissue via molecular analysis. The use of Raman spectroscopy for real-time intraoperative tissue classification requires fast analysis with minimal human intervention. In order to have accurate predictions and classifications, a large and reliable database of tissue classifications with spectra results is required. We have developed a system that can be used to generate an efficient scanning path for robotic scanning of tissues using Raman spectroscopy. METHODS: A camera mounted to a robotic controller is used to take an image of a tissue slide. The corners of the tissue slides within the sample image are identified, and the size of the slide is calculated. The image is cropped to fit the size of the slide and the image is manipulated to identify the tissue contour. A grid set to fit around the size of the tissue is calculated and a grid scanning pattern is generated. A masked image of the tissue contour is used to create a scanning pattern containing only the tissue. The tissue scanning pattern points are transformed to the robot controller coordinate system and used for robotic tissue scanning. The pattern is validated using spectroscopic scans of the tissue sample. The run time of the tissue scan pattern is compared to a region of interest scanning pattern encapsulating the tissue using the robotic controller. RESULTS: The average scanning time for the tissue scanning pattern compared to region of interest scanning reduced by 4 minutes and 58 seconds. CONCLUSION: This method reduced the number of points used for automated robotic scanning, and can be used to reduce scanning time and unusable data points to improve data collection efficiency.


The ability of spontaneously adsorbed monolayers possessing terminal sulfonate groups to prevent electrode surface fouling by surfactant-containing solutions was examined. Films of 3-mercaptopropane sulfonate (MPS) on polycrystalline gold electrodes were prepared from acidic solution and characterised by reductive desorption. The voltammetric reduction of lead(II) ions at such electrodes revealed an enhanced current for underpotential deposition (upd) compared to the current observed at a clean polycrystalline gold electrode. The enhanced upd current was maintained in the presence of bovine serum albumin (BSA), indicating the ability of the MPS film to prevent adsorption of BSA on the gold electrode and the consequent fouling of the surface. Using the enhanced upd current, 1 µM Pb2+ could be detected in solution using square wave voltammetry. This work has implications for analytical applications of monolayer-coated electrodes.


Declassified 24 Sep 1973. The purpose of this work was to develop a process for recovering the uranium from spent Rover fuels. Only one reactor is used, and the process involves a 4-hr combustion of the fuel in oxygen at about 800 deg C, a 4-hr chlorination of the U/sub 3/O/sub 8/-Nb/ sub 2/O/sub 5/ ash in refluxing hexachloropropene at 180 deg C, dissolution-extraction of the UCl/sub 4/ and NbCl/sub 5/ products at room temperature by dilute nitric acid, and extraction of the uranium from the resulting acid solution with 30% TBP in Amsco diluent. The results indicate that an extract containing 50 g of uranium per liter can be produced in seven or eight extraction stages, with total uranium losses of less than 0.02%. Corrosion rates of several possible construction materials during chlorination are less than 0.1 mil/month. Problems in the process involve handling about 10% of the niobium as a solid during the liquid- liquid separations, and handling solutions containing chloride. The results of this laboratory-scale work indicate that the liquid-phase chlorination and subsequent extraction operations are reducible to large-scale practice, since these operations resemble the liquid-phase operations typically performed in radiochemical separation plants. (auth)


A numerical model for turbulent, recirculating combusting flow is described and applied to a research combustor. The model is based on the density-weighted averaged Navier-Stokes equations with an eddy-viscosity turbulence closure. The eddy viscosity is obtained from the two-equation (A>e) turbulence model. Compositional fluctuations at each point are described probabilistically in terms of the mixture fraction. The probability density function is obtained from transport equations for its first two moments together with an assumption regarding its shape. A standard finite difference procedure and line relaxation algorithm are used to solve the resulting equations. Predictions of the model are compared with data from an axisymmetric, bluff-body-stabilized research combustor. The major discrepancies are similar to those found in isothermal flow comparisons. In particular, the k-t turbulence model appears to be inadequate. Peculiar features of this flow which contribute to the errors are identified. The theory-data agreement deteriorates as the central jet velocity is increased, suggesting an enhanced role for the unsteady effects which are experimentally observed.


IN the latter years of the tenth century the cathedral of Rheims possessed the most flourishing school of Northern Europe. This preeminence was due in large measure to the presence there of Gerbert of Aurillac. First coming to Rheims in 972 or 973, this extraordinary individual had taught at the cathedral for a decade when he was made abbot of Bobbio in Italy. Unhappy in this new position, however, he soon relinquished it and returned to his post as a teacher at Rheims. In 991 he succeeded the deposed Carolingian, Arnold, as archbishop of Rheims. The six years which followed were marked by political turmoil and strife. In 997 Gerbert left Rheims for the second and last time to become subsequently archbishop of Ravenna and, in 999, Pope Sylvester II.J Gerbert was undoubtedly the most learned European of his day. His knowledge was both deep and broad. He was, moreover, a dynamic and inspiring teacher. His vivid personality, his enthusiasm for classical literature, his ingenuity in devising "visual aids" for the comprehension of astronomy made a profound impression on his many students. One of these, Richer, has left us convincing proof of this in an animated and detailed description of Gerbert's classroom.2 It might seem probable that the momentum imparted to studies by Gerbert should have continued at Rheims long after his departure. Such does not appear to have been the case. Indeed, the evidence for the very survival of a school at the cathedral during the early years of the eleventh century is painfully meager.3


BACKGROUND: Endoluminal surgery for the management of rectal prolapse remains largely experimental. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the evolution and short-term outcomes of a new endoluminal technique for the management of complete rectal prolapse. DESIGN: This was a prospective study. SETTINGS: This study was conducted at a single tertiary care teaching center. PATIENTS: A total of 29 patients were included. The first 12 patients underwent the procedure with our initial technique, and the last 17 patients were subjected to the new modified procedure. The follow-up duration was 3 years for the older technique and 26 months for the newer technique. INTERVENTION: This technique involves: 1) ventral "suture" rectopexy: rectum is fixed anteriorly to the anterior abdominal wall using percutaneously placed sutures. 2) Posterior rectum is fixed to the sacral promontory using tackers through a submucosal tunnel. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Safety, recurrence, functional outcomes, morbidity, and mortality were the main outcome measures. RESULTS: There were improvements in constipation and incontinence scores, anal manometric pressures, anorectal angle, anorectal descent, and quality of life postoperatively in both groups. In patients undergoing the modified procedure, there was a significant decrease in duration of surgery (220 ± 48.89 vs 110 ± 12.51 min), shortened hospital stay (4.6 ± 1.71 vs 2.6 ± 0.65 d), decreased recurrence (25% vs 5.8%), and complications (surgical-site infection and retrorectal abscess). LIMITATIONS: Short follow-up, small sample size, and single-center study were the limitations. CONCLUSION: This is a novel endoluminal technique for treating rectal prolapse obviating perirectal dissection, abdominal incisions, or a mesh. This can now be performed under complete endoscopic and fluoroscopic vision. It avoids general anesthesia and therefore can be an alternative for patients with comorbid conditions in whom the standard abdominal procedure may not be well tolerated. Larger randomized multicentric studies with longer follow-ups are warranted. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C59. RECTOPEXIA ENDOSCÓPICA TRANSANAL POR ORIFICIO NATURAL PARA EL PROLAPSO RECTAL COMPLETO: EVOLUCIÓN PROSPECTIVA DE UNA NUEVA TÉCNICA Y RESULTADOS A CORTO PLAZO ANTECEDENTES: La cirugía endoluminal para el tratamiento del prolapso rectal ha permanecido en gran parte experimental. OBJETIVO: Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar la evolución y los resultados a corto plazo de una nueva técnica endoluminal para el manejo del prolapso rectal completo. DISEÑO: Estudio prospectivo. ÁMBITOS: Único centro docente de tercer nivel de atención. PACIENTES: Se incluyeron un total de 29 pacientes (19 hombres y 10 mujeres) con prolapso rectal completo. Los primeros 12 pacientes fueron sometidos al procedimiento con nuestra técnica anteriormente descrita y los últimos 17 pacientes fueron sometidos al nuevo procedimiento modificado. La duración del seguimiento es de 3 años para la técnica más antigua y de 26 meses para la técnica más nueva. INTERVENCIÓN: Esta técnica implica: A) Rectopexia de "sutura" ventral: el recto se fija anteriormente a la pared abdominal anterior mediante suturas colocadas percutáneamente. B) El recto posterior se fija al promontorio sacro mediante grapas a través de un túnel submucoso. PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO: Seguridad, recurrencia, resultados funcionales, morbilidad y mortalidad. RESULTADOS: Hubo mejorías en las puntuaciones de estreñimiento (ODS) e incontinencia (SMIS), presiones manométricas anales (reposo y contracción), ángulo anorrectal, descenso anorrectal y calidad de vida post operatoria en ambos grupos. En los pacientes sometidos al procedimiento modificado hubo una significativa disminución en la duración de la cirugía (220 + 48,89 vs 110 + 12,51 minutos), acortamiento de la estancia hospitalaria (4,6 + 1,71 vs 2,6 + 0,65 días), disminución de la recurrencia (25% vs 5,8%) y complicaciones (infecciónes del sitio quirúrgico y abscesos retrorrectales). LIMITACIONES: Seguimiento corto, tamaño de muestra pequeña, estudio de un solo centro. CONCLUSIÓNES: La rectopexia endoscópica transanal por orificio natural (NOTER) es una novedosa técnica endoluminal para el tratamiento del prolapso rectal que evita la disección perirrectal, las incisiones abdominales o la fijación de una malla. Este procedimiento puede realizar hoy día bajo visión completa endoscópica y fluoroscópica. Evita la anestesia general y, por lo tanto, puede ser una alternativa para pacientes con condiciones comórbidas donde el procedimiento abdominal estándar puede no ser bien tolerado. Se justifican estudios multicéntricos aleatorios más grandes con un seguimiento más prolongado para validar aún más esta nueva técnica. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C59. (Traducción—Dr Osvaldo Gauto)


Nowadays companies can offer variety of products and services to its customers due to the growing number of Internet subscribers and massification of mobile devices that have improved communication, access to information and have allowed microenterprises made the design of commercial and advertising strategies of marketing on the web in order to increase its sales volume, gain greater market share and increase its profit margin, also the companies should strive to meet the needs of its consumers to create brand loyalty.


Color of seed coats from Brassica juncea and B.napus can be precisely determined as early as 15 d after pollination by staining with 0.5% vanillin-HCl solution for 5 min,which is a simple,rapid,and reliable procedure for identification.Therefore selection for seed coat color trait could be done one generation earlier than traditional rapeseed breeding,which will speed up improvement of Brassica yellow-seeded trait.


Log and core data document gas saturations as high as 90% in a coarse‐grained turbidite sequence beneath the gas hydrate stability zone (GHSZ) at south Hydrate Ridge, in the Cascadia accretionary complex. The geometry of this gas‐saturated bed is defined by a strong, negative‐polarity reflection in 3D seismic data. Because of the gas buoyancy, gas pressure equals or exceeds the overburden stress immediately beneath the GHSZ at the summit. We conclude that gas is focused into the coarse‐grained sequence from a large volume of the accretionary complex and is trapped until high gas pressure forces the gas to migrate through the GHSZ to seafloor vents. This focused flow provides methane to the GHSZ in excess of its proportion in gas hydrate, thus providing a mechanism to explain the observed coexistence of massive gas hydrate, saline pore water and free gas near the summit.


The goal of the current study is to investigate changes in the way firms are financed and financial resources are allocated based on the characteristics of firms before and after the crisis. Using data on short-term and long-term loans of around 29,000 Greek firms in 7 sectors for the period 2003-2011, the paper carries out a descriptive analysis of their financing based on their basic characteristics. We examine financing based on size and sector of activity, as well as on balance sheet and profit and loss account information, such as, operational cost, profits, own funds etc. The conclusion that emerges is that the size of firms, their profitability and their operating cost were defining factors for maintaining access to financing in an environment of increased risk aversion and limited financing resources. The analysis points to the potential for sectoral re-composition of the economy through the financing of firms.


The article considers the possibility of using the innovative method of education in the traditional form of education. The relevance of this study is associated with the increasing © Попова Т.А., Манина И.И., 2017.


Purpose: The purpose of our article was to explore the effect of ethosomes containing 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) with different sizes on laryngotracheal stenosis treatment. Methods: The physical characteristics of ethosomes containing 5-FU were investigated, including size, shape, and entrapment percentage. The effect of ethosomes containing 5-FU was evaluated on the airway stenosis rabbit model. The formation of fibrous/scar tissue was investigated by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and the permeation depth was observed under fluorescence microscope. Results: The mean sizes of 5-FU ethosomes extruded by D = 50 nm and D = 100 nm pore were 60 ± 10 nm and 110 ± 13 nm, respectively. The 5-FU entrapment percentage of ethosomes was determined to be 15% (D = 60 ± 10 nm) and 32% (D = 110 ± 13 nm). After being treated by ethosomes containing 5-FU (D = 60 ± 10 nm), the fibroblast and collagenous fiber distributed sparsely in the deep scar tissue. The permeation capability of ethosomes containing 5-FU (D = 60 nm) was significantly better than ethosomes (D = 110 nm). Besides, the 5-FU ethosomes resulted in less stenosis than 5-FU only. Conclusions: Topical administration of 5-FU ethosomes may be a novel candidate therapy for laryngotracheal stenosis treatment.


The wireless power shiftmodel mammoth potential in the hope for its protection and ease. self-directedsubmarineautomobile is single of the vitalmachinery to realize and build up oceans. In this manuscript, we increase and explore a wireless power transfer bargain based on magnetic resonance recipe to incriminate the autonomous vehicle under-water. We have adopted anexhaustiveprojected way that energy reachbase the vehicle and the coils in the wireless power transportarrangement were designed to enlarge a higher mutual inductance based on the sketch of the automobile in this paper. In estimate, we explore the correspondent circuit model and offer a kind of impedance matching complex to preserve system shield. The coils used in the planned system are 20 turns and radii are 70 mm.


By introducing parameter hypothesis and using the Jacobi elliptic function expansion method,we demonstrate the formation of four kinds of doubly periodic solutions in coupled self-defocusing nonlinear Schr dinger(NLS) equation supported by attractive coupling.


Bursariais an endemic Australian genus of mostlyspinescent, scruffy shrubs and trees, found in all but the most arid or alpineareas. Previous classifications include many infraspecific taxa and haveproved unworkable in eastern Australia. This paper presents a revision of thegenus. On the basis of phenetic analyses of morphometric characters thefollowing taxa are now recognised: B. calcicolaL.Cayzer, Crisp & I.Telford, B. incana Lindl.,B. longisepala Domin,B. occidentalis E.M.Benn.,B. reevesii L.Cayzer, Crisp & I.Telford,B. spinosa Cav. subsp. lasiophylla (E.M.Benn.) L.Cayzer, Crisp & I.Telford, B. spinosasubsp. spinosa and B. tenuifoliaF.M.Bail. Two are described as new(B. calcicola, B. reevesii), and one is changed in rank:B. spinosa subsp. lasiophylla(formerly B. lasiophylla E.M.Benn.). None of the otherinfraspecific taxa recognised previously is supported by our analyses.


Orthorhombic KNbO3 thin films were deposited on SrTiO3 (100) and LiTaO3 (001) substrates by low-temperature hydrothermal epitaxy at 180−210 °C using aqueous solutions containing Nb2O5 and KOH. The films were thoroughly characterized by X-ray diffraction, Rutherford backscattering, and scanning electron microscopy. The KNbO3 films were uniformly distributed on the entire substrate area, exhibited high stoichiometry, and did not show evidence of interdiffusion or chemical reaction at the film/substrate interface. Their microstructures were determined by the substrate used, the synthesis temperature, and the concentration of the reactants. The KNbO3 films on SrTiO3 (100) substrates with thickness of 45 nm to 1.28 μm were smooth and transparent, with microstructures strongly suggesting single crystal growth mechanism. They were pure orthorhombic phase with (011) orientation and probably single-domain. Conversely, the KNbO3 films with higher thickness (>3.5 μm) exhibited very rough microstructure with textured...


In this study, immersion elements of game fields were classified and analysis by dividing them into the steps of design, interface and fun element, after classifying in-game-advertisement by its purpose. In-game-advertisement business model analyzed by that and the direction that develops based on user immersion elements of in-game-advertisement was studied accordingly. The advertisement access to various immersion elements could be checked in the recent in-game-advertisement by that.


Heterocumulenes, 8. — C4OS (4-Thioxo-1,2,3-butatrien-1-one), C4S2 (1,2,3-Butatriene-1,4-dithione), and C3S (3-Thioxo-1,2-propadienylidene) - Preparation and Spectroscopic Properties

C4OS (8) is prepared by matrix photolysis and by flash pyrolysis of the precursor molecule 4, C4S2 (12) by matrix photolysis of 10, 11, and 13. Upon irradiation both 8 and 12 are split reversibly into C3S (9) and CO or CS. The IR and UV/Vis spectra of C4OS (8), C3S (9), and C4S2 (12) are reported. Quantumchemical calculations have been performed for the structures, harmonic vibrational frequencies, singlet-triplet gaps, and electronic transition energies of 8 and 12.


Plante et al. (1) in "Girls' internalization of their female teacher's anxiety: A 'real-world' stereotype threat effect?" raise an excellent point that, overall, girls' and boys' math achievement did not differ at either the beginning or end of the school year in our study. This finding is consistent with recent work revealing a lack of gender differences in math skills in grades 2–11 (2). Nonetheless, our study (3) sheds light on one avenue through which some girls perform at a lower level in math than other girls and boys overall. Specifically, the higher a female teacher's anxiety about her own math ability, the more likely the girls in her class (but not the boys) are to be lower in math achievement at the end of the school year. We show that this relation between teacher and student can be accounted for by whether girls endorse traditional gender stereotypes (i.e., boys are good at math and girls are good at reading) at school year's end.


Extensive public debate has been held recently about the rights of British lesbians to access medically prepared donor sperm. Public statements by the head of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) indicate that this agency may be preparing to reconsider its objections to the acquisition of donor sperm by lesbians. By examining the evolution of sperm banking in the United States and Britain, this essay considers the consequences of open market versus state control over medicalized sperm for lesbians. It argues that sexuality alone does not determine the ability of lesbians to access sperm under either system and that officially ending the discriminatory practices of the HFEA may not guarantee access for all lesbians.


This paper describes the design and measured performance of a low-noise varactor tuned oscillator based on a film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR) at 2 GHz. Using varactor tuning, this oscillator demonstrated a 2.5 MHz frequency tuning range at 1985 MHz with a phase noise of -112 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz from the carrier. This represents the first example of a low noise Si-bipolar FBAR tunable oscillator.


The surgical procedure of the zygomatic transpetrosal approach, which is the method for 1-stage removal of dumbbell-shaped parasellar and posterior fossa chordoma, is described. This approach is the combination of the zygomatic frontotemporal epidural approach and the anterior transpetrosal approach. The parasellar intracavernous component is removed by the zygomatic frontotemporal epidural approach, and the posterior fossa component is removed by the anterior transpetrosal approach. By using this combined approach, the dumbbell-shaped tumor located in 2 distinct components can be removed by 1-stage surgery.


Anatomic reference axes that determine rotational alignment of the tibial component have not been established. To assess variability of three anatomic reference axes (a new tibial anteroposterior axis that we proposed, the transmalleolar axis of the ankle, and the second metatarsus bone axis of the foot), we measured the angles between a defined anteroposterior axis of the tibia (a line perpendicular to the transepicondylar axis) and each of the three axes in 57 knees of healthy subjects using computed tomography scans. The angle between the defined anteroposterior axis and our proposed anteroposterior axis (a line connecting the middle of the posterior cruciate ligament and the medial edge of the patellar tendon attachment) averaged −0.2° ± 2.8° (range, −5.5°-6.3°). The angle between the defined anteroposterior axis and the transmalleolar axis averaged 25.9° ± 9° (range, 8°-49.4°), and the angle between the defined anteroposterior axis and the second metatarsus bone axis averaged 5.2° ± 10° (range, −21.9°-24°). The variability of the anteroposterior axis was less than than the other reference axes. These data indicate that our proposed tibial anteroposterior axis is more reliable for determining rotational alignment of the tibial component in total knee arthroplasty.


The network management method includes the following steps: establishing private MIB for describing network equipment state of running subnetwork management commission on main network management commission; when the network management station has need of inquiring network equipment of running subnetwork management commission or setting one, firstly, giving out request to main network management commission to inquire state of network equipment of running subnetwork management commission, then according to the inquired result defining that it gives request to network equipment of running subnetwork management commission or not and execute, and when the request is received by subnetwork management commission, said subnetwork management commission makes correspondent operation and returns theresponse message to network management station.


Underwater welding technologies are of growing importance with increasing of waterfront projects. Underwater welding technique also provides effective means for repairing many kinds of offshore structures. It should be pointed out, however, that such important properties as the cooling cycle and the joint strength in the underwater welding are not fully understood. In the previous studies, cooling cycle of underwater welding conducted in the water at rest was investigated. From a site welding point of view, it is necessary to elucidate how a tidal current and a wave affect the welding operations and the strength of welded joint.In this paper, underwater welding is performed in the running water, and the effects of water flow velocity on the cooling process are studied. The experiments are conducted in a water tank especially designed for this purpose, where the flow velocity is varied up to 30cm/sec. Accordingly, significant characteristics of the cooling curves and cooling rates are estimated.


Deformity can easily be preventedif the limb is kept in extension, with adequatesupport behind the headof the tibia. I do not think that splinting in extension to prevent deformity is incompatible with early movement,for in Everidge'smethod the splint is fixed at night in extension, and in the other methods immobilization is practisedonly in the early stages. After the acute stage,ability to extend fully must be insisted upon at least once daily, or splinting must be resumed. For the established deformity, osteotomy is required if the ankylosis is bony. For flexion deformity, removal of a wedge of bone from the front of the lower end of the femur is probably safer than a linear osteotomy,becauseof the traction the latter imposeson the popliteal vesselsand nerves. • If the deformity is due to fibrous ankylosis,it can be corrected on a straight Thomas splint. if the deformitv does not exceed30° or 40°. If it is in excessof this, backward subluxation of the tibial headmust be guardedagainst. It is a pity that the merits of the "two-way" Thomassplint are not more widely known, becauseit is exceedinglyeffective.


In modern apparel supply chains, customers are demanding better quality, higher availability of products, broader assortments and shorter delivery times. Production planning and control become cruc...


county jails any nook or cranny into which the spotlight of publicity had not been turned, or that any new scandal could be brought to light in what have been appropriately termed &dquo;the worst of our penal institutions.&dquo; From John Howard's day to the present, reports on jail conditions have been an almost unbroken record of neglect, filth, and corruption. The occasional public scandals that throw a lurid light over some jails usually result in no more constructive action than removal of a jailer or two and temporary correction of conditions under which brutality and graft have flourished.


A corollary of Grassman's linearity law is formally derived, and states: If a number of colors have a corresponding color appearance A in different illuminants, then their complementary colors have a corresponding color appearance B. The informal logic is that: (1) a perceived color has only one complementary color; (2) two or more corresponding colors have the same complementary color (given the illuminant whites are a color match); so (3) the complementary colors to corresponding colors will themselves be a set of corresponding colors. A method of predicting corresponding colors is derived theoretically and shown to agree with data. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 30, 371–381, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/col.


The Internet's growth, particularly the World Wide Web, as an electronic medium of commerce has brought tremendous changes in market competition among various industries. For example, past researches have examined the impact of Internet technology on customer relationship management in various areas⎯in small and large firms, services and business-to-business companies. However, there remains a need to empirically examine the impact of implementing Internet technology on various dimensions of relationship management in South East Asia, particularly Malaysia. Primarily, the interest was led by traditional customer management economics⎯it costs the industry five times as much to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one (Peppers and Rogers 1996). The results of this study indicate that click-and-mortar companies show a higher percentage of using the Internet technology for CRM compared to pure dotcom companies. There is a positive impact on the utilization of Internet technology on the CRM variables being studied. These findings may reflect a similar situation in other countries in South East Asia where the penetration rate of e-commerce is relatively low. The limitations and future directions of this research are also discussed and highlighted.


A single-phase YBa2Cu3O5.8 with a tetragonal symmetry shows a semiconductor-like resistivity down to 4.2 K. The crystal structure of this compound has been determined by the Rietveld profile analysis of neutron powder diffraction data measured at 10 K. The space group P4/mmm is confirmed, and lattice constants are a=3.8607(3) Å and c=11.774(1) Å. The oxygen site 2 g(0 0 0.1553) is fully occupied, but the occupation of the 4i site (1/2 0 0.3786) is 0.91 and that of the 2f site (1/2 0 0) is only 0.07.


The structural and elastic properties of NbN2 at high pressures were investigated through the first-principles calculation. Results indicate that NbN2 is a potential hard material. NbN2 meets mechanical stability criteria and possesses ductility within the pressure of 100 GPa. The elastic anisotropy under high pressure was achieved by the elastic anisotropy factors, which reduce with increasing pressure. Using the quasi-harmonic Debye model, we also investigated the thermodynamic properties of NbN2.


Dynamics of electrolytic copper extraction from sulphuric acid electrolyte onto fibrous carbon electrodes with uniform distribution of initial electrical conductivity throughout the electrode thickness has been studied depending on the electrical conductivity of a fibrous carbon electrode, dimensional current density, the flow rate and the direction of solution feeding into the electrode as applied to the technology of copper extraction from the recovery bath of an automatic line of a galvanic manufacture.


is possible that facial expression was induced by the synchronization of frontal alpha asymmetry and ANS activity. In addition, when they watched one of the positive clips, frontal alpha asymmetry fluctuation was preceded by HR variation. This indicated that ANS response might influ ence activity of cerebral area where frontal alpha asymmetry arises.


Due to the novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic, universities around the world postponed the school term. Some colleges and universities in the world require the implementation and guarantee of online teaching during the period of epidemic prevention and control, so as to realize "no suspension of classes". In this context, the development of large-scale online teaching network, facing many challenges, but also ushered in a rare opportunity. In addition, in the era of Internet plus, internet teaching has been integrated into the teaching of colleges and universities, and even into primary school and secondary school. In the face of the rapid replacement of education methods in the Internet era, the research on academic evaluation is far from satisfactory. In this paper, through the method of literature analysis, the journal papers and master's theses about academic evaluation from 1999 to now are sorted out, and the research trend and content are analyzed. In view of the shortcomings of domestic academic evaluation and the future development trend of academic evaluation in the Internet era, this paper puts forward that hybrid academic evaluation is a new way to solve the problem and a new trend of academic evaluation reform in the internet era. The novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic line teaching mode is discussed in principle, which provides reference for the implementation of stable, orderly and efficient online teaching mode.


Transactions of the magnetic stripe that runs in the form of a mobile communications device is proposed, generally, the mobile communication device contained in the application, executes processing which has been conventionally done by using a magnetic stripe which is detected on the magnetic stripe card It is formed so as to. In one embodiment, the mobile communication device generates a magnetic stripe data used to execute a trade of the magnetic stripe. To do this, the mobile communication device includes a magnetic stripe unit and a computer unit. Computer device stores the magnetic stripe data, magnetic stripe device is used to transfer a magnetic stripe information stored, the magnetic stripe unit, or performs the processing as if it were a conventional magnetic stripe cards are used It can be used for.


In a recently published decision of 6 February 2019, the European Commission waived a commitment imposed during its merger review of Air France's acquisition of KLM in 2004. By way of background,…


The present study was undertaken to investigate the rate and mode of degradation of individual histatin proteins in whole saliva to establish the impact on its functional domains. Pure synthetic histatins 1, 3, and 5 were incubated with whole saliva supernatant as the enzyme source, and peptides in the resultant digests were separated by reverse‐phase‐ HPLC and structurally characterized by electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry. The overall Vmax/Km ratios, a measure of proteolytic efficiency, were on the order of histatin‐5 > histatin‐3 > hista‐ tin‐1. Mathematical models predict that histatins 1, 3, and 5 levels in whole saliva stabilize at 5.1, 1.9, and 1.2 μM, representing 59, 27, and 11% of glandular histatins 1, 3, and 5 levels, respectively. Monitoring of the appearance and disappearance of histatin fragments yielded the identification of the first targeted enzymatic cleavage sites as K13 and K17 in histatin 1, R22, Y24, and R25 in histatin 3, and Y10, K11, R12, K13, H15, E16, K17, and H18 in histatin 5. The data indicate that metal‐binding, antifungal, and woundhealing domains are largely unaffected by the primary cleavage events in whole saliva, suggesting a sustained functional activity of these proteins in the proteolytic environment of the oral cavity.— Sun, X.,Salih, E., Oppenheim, F. G., Helmerhorst, E. J. Kinetics of histatin proteolysis in whole saliva and the effect on bioactive domains with metal‐binding, antifungal, and wound‐healing properties. FASEB J. 23, 2691–2701 (2009)


This document provides a summary of environmental sampling of coyote feces and cryptogams to determine radionuclide concentrations in 1995 &1996.


This paper had summarized the rule of relationship between cerebral stroke and hypertension and characteristics of blood changes. How to select the drugs and its monitoring standard during treatment were discussed. The prevention of stroke was summarized.


This paper studies the problems of global exponential stability for a class of impulsive Cohen-Grossberg neural networks, which contains both variable and unbounded delays. By constructing vector Lyapunov functions and nonlinear integro-differential inequalities, the sufficient conditions for global exponential stability are obtained. An example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed conditions.


Genotoxicity studies used to investigate the potency of a compound to interact with the constitution of genetic. An alteration of the genetic code via gene mutations (point mutations) or DNA strand breaks may lead to fundamental changes DNA damage in a somatic cell may result in a somatic mutation, which may lead to malignant transformation (cancer). A genotoxin is an agent or chemical that can cause DNA or chromosomal damage. Such damage in a germ cell has the potential to cause a heritable altered trait (germline mutation). Many chemical carcinogens/mutagens undergo metabolic activation to reactive species that bind covalently to DNA, and the DNA adducts thus formed can be detected in cells and in human tissues by a variety of sensitive techniques. The present study was aimed to provide information regarding genotoxicity.


Abstract : Tests were conducted on a Pratt & Whitney R-1830-86 engine equipped with a PD12E2-2 carburetor to determine the performance characteristics and to evaluate operation when using fuel having an aromatic content of approximately 20%. Comparative mixture control runs extending over the complete cruise range and including normal and take-off conditions indicated that best economy mixture results averaged 1% richer when using aromatic fuel. The mixture temperatures, when using aromatic type fuel, were found to be slightly less, and the Bendix PD12E2 carburetor metered approximately 2.5% richer at the air flows near and above rated, but a negligible amount at air flows in the cruising range. Generally, no difference in engine operation, including smoothness and acceleration, was noticeable. No signs of detonation were present when using either fuel.


The article is devoted to individual aspects of the problem of regulation of the order of termination of criminal proceedings and (or) criminal prosecution of minors in connection with the reconciliation of the parties or the active repentance. The authors examine a number of problems caused by the imperfection of the criminal procedure legislation. Attention is drawn to the need for regulation in the criminal procedure legislation familiarize interested parties to the proceedings with the criminal case. The problems of the need to notify the interested parties to the proceedings of the upcoming termination of the criminal prosecution, obtain the views of the victim (victim''s legal representative) and the legal representative of a minor suspect or accused as to the termination of criminal prosecution. The necessity to limit the discretionary powers of the investigator (inquirer) and the Court in deciding to discontinue the criminal prosecution of juvenile suspects or accused, had not condemned and are not exempt from criminal liability. On the basis of the research proposals on the improvement of criminal procedural law of the regulations concerning termination of criminal proceedings and (or) criminal prosecution against minors.


The various lung models we considered in the previous chapter are all composed of collections of discrete elements, each of which is a resistance, an elastance, or a mass. Such models assume that the dissipative, elastic, and inertive properties of the lung are each lumped together in separate physical locations. Accordingly, these models are known as lumped-parameter models . Most models of lung mechanics that have appeared in the literature over the past century or so have been of this form. The main reason for the prevalence of lumped-parameter models is that they are described by tractable, if sometimes algebraically tortuous, ordinary differential equations. Also, we tend to be comfortable with the idea of associating individual constitutive properties with distinct components in a model. This tendency to make lumped-parameter models may be cultural; probably many of us can remember learning elementary physics at school with the aid of demonstrations of things like weights suspended on springs. It may also reflect an innate need for the human mind to compartmentalize phenomena in order to make sense of a complex world. In any case, lumped-parameter models lead to a rather artificial view of the way the world actually works, and it is now time to revise this view with respect to the modeling of lung mechanics. Genesis of the constant phase model Our affinity for linear ordinary differential equations instinctively makes us expect to see exponential-type transient responses in nature.


SH22 domains are protein motifs consisting of approximately 100 amino acids which were originally described by Sadowski et a!. (1). This domain was discovered when the noncatalytic domains of cytoplasmic tyrosine kinases such as fps were compared to src (1) and subsequently described in the enzyme PLC-y (2, 3) and the oncogene v-ak (4). Interest in SH2 domains has heightened with the recent finding that these domains directly bind to protein sequences containing phosphotyrosmne (5). This finding, coupled with the fact that SH2 domains are found in molecules involved in growth factor mediated intracellular signaling and oncogenesis, indicates that SH2 domains are important in pathways utilized in growth control (6, 7). The focus of this review will be to discuss the general characteristics of 5H2 domains by reviewing several of the important SH2 domain containing proteins. In understanding the terminology of SH2 domains, it is instructive to examine the structure of src (Fig. 1 ). The tyrosine kinase domain of src represents src homology region 1, but this designation is not commonly utilized. Immediately amino-terminal to the tyrosine kinase domain lies the SH2 domain, which is designated in some other papers as the B and C box (3, 4). Next to the SH2 domain lies the SH3 domain, also known as the A box (3, 4). SH3 domains are approximately 50 amino acids long, and their function remains unknown, although they are found in cytoskeletal proteins such as spectnin (8). Proteins with SH2 domains often have accompanying SH3 domains (Fig. 1), and there is also a large group of proteins that have the SH3 domain only (5). Extensive comparisons of the amino acid sequence of SH2 domains have been published (5). Fig. 2 displays the amino acid sequence of a limited number of SH2 (Fig. 2A) and SH3 domains (Fig. 2B). Approximately 30 residues in SH2 domains are highly conserved, and three


The mechanism of the permanganate oxidation of 1,5-dienes was investigated by density functional theory calculations (B3LYP/6-311+G*). The experimentally observed (unexpected) products, 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl) tetrahydrofurans, are formed in a concerted reaction, which explains the observed stereoselectivity of the reaction. Water plays an important role in the reaction mechanism by significantly lowering the activation energies.


Economic numerical control lathes are widely used in machining businesses.However,these lathes are convenient for using but difficult to repair for lack of specialists in maintenance in businesses.So,when using economic numerical control lathes,we must pay attention to sum up the experiences in trouble diagnosis and maintenance and improve the specialized skill of equipment maintenance men,thus ensuring intact and high-efficiency numerical maching equipments.


Two impulsive sound sources, one using multiple acoustic drivers and the other using a spark discharge were developed to study the acoustic reflection characteristics of hard-walled wind tunnels, and the results of laboratory tests are presented. The analysis indicates that though the intensity of the pulse generated by the spark source was higher than that obtained from the acoustic source, the number of averages needed for a particular test may require an unacceptibly long tunnel-run time due to the low spark generation repeat rate because of capacitor charging time. The additional hardware problems associated with the longevity of electrodes and electrode holders in sustaining the impact of repetitive spark discharges, show the multidriver acoustic source to be more suitable for this application.


The invention relates to an insertion device paper webs in a rotary printing machine, comprising a flexible tractor finite element (2) driven by drive elements (7), said traction member having a length slightly greater than the distance between two drive elements successifs.Selon the invention, the towing element comprises a coating (11) adapted to reduce friction of said traction member in a guide (1).


In order to exploit genes of functional components in barley grains,and breed barley lines with high functional components,the inheritance of total flavones,γ-aminobutyric acid,alkaloids and resistant starch in barley grains was studied by the statistical method of major gene and polygene mixed genetic model of segregating generations joint analysis,using parents S500,Kuanyingdamai and backcross generations(BC3F1 and BC3F2).The results indicated that total flavones fitted two pairs of additive-dominance-epistatic major genes and additive-dominance polygenes(E-1 model),the heritability of major genes was 47.95%;alkaloids fitted two additive-dominance-epistatic major genes(B-1 model),the heritability of major genes was 67.36%;γ-aminobutyric acid and resistant starch fitted two pairs of additive-dominance-epistatic major genes plus additive-dominance-epistatic polygenes(E-0 model),the heritability of major genes was 56.49% and 80.13%,respectively.The major genes of controlling the contents of four functional components in barley grains were mainly based on dominant effect,and its genetic contribution was higher,so it would be more efficient to conduct selection by making full use of major genes in breeding.


Background Growth failure in chronic childhood disease is a multifactorial entity. The nutritional outcome is affected by baseline nutritional status, disease state, and, rarely, an inherent genetic abnormality. Aim To assess growth and nutritional status in children with some chronic illnesses, including children with chronic kidney disease on regular hemodialysis and children with type 1 diabetes. Patients and methods This case–control study was conducted on 120 children. Their ages ranged from 6 to 18 years. The study was carried out at the nephrology and hemodialysis unit of Al-Zahraa Hospital, Al Azhar University, and at National Research Center. The study population was divided into three groups: group 1 included 40 children with end-stage renal disease on regular hemodialysis, group 2 included 40 children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes, and group 3 included 40 healthy controls of comparable age and sex. The patients were subjected to full medical history; etiology, onset, and duration of disease; and medication regularity. Moreover, selective routine follow-up laboratory investigations were done for patient and control groups in the same line with anthropometric measurements and dietary assessments and were compared regarding their daily recommended diet for each group. Results Children on regular hemodialysis consumed fewer proteins, fats, fruits, and vegetables in comparison with their standard dietary recommended daily intake, which was 82.9, 57.9, 70.1, and 33.6%, respectively, with a significant decrease in their anthropometric measurements in comparison with diabetic and healthy groups. Children with type 1 diabetes consume more starches, proteins, and dairy products in comparison with their standard dietary daily intake but consumed less fat, fruits, and vegetables, and they had poor glycemic control and a significant increase in their anthropometric measurements in comparison of those values with available norms. We found a significant positive correlation between starches consumption and anthropometric measurements in type 1 diabetic children. Conclusion It is necessary to consider nutritional status in the assessment of the etiology and treatment of growth failure in children on regular hemodialysis. Nutritional policies and nutritional assistance programs and actions must be taken in children with chronic kidney disease to avoid growth failure and in type 1 diabetes to achieve normal glycemia and normal growth.


Two-stroke engine has inherent advantages over four-stroke engine of greater torque and power, less torgue fluctuation and more compactness. At the same time, it has main drawback of the direct short-circuiting and excessive oil consumption. In these days, however, the oil consumption problem has been solved by adapting poppet valve system instead of port type. for the first step of this research, in order to ultimately optimize scavenging process using RSSV(rotatable shrouded scavenging valve) system, which has been patented by our research group, the scavenging flow characteristics of an automotive two-stroke engine is investigated by flow visualization technique under steady condition. As working fluid, water is used instead of air to effectively visualize the flow pattern with applying Reynolds analogy. Flow visualization of scavenging process in the cylinder is achieved by using laser and camera system, and the characteristics of scavenging systems are analyzed by comparing several different parameters.


Using serious games as a form of training and education has been a growing trend. While there has been research into the adaptation of games for training, assessment of user knowledge as a whole for the purpose of creating tailored training content has not been closely examined. In this paper, we propose a general framework for creating an assessment game and show how Knowledge Assessment can be used to guide the focus of subsequent training modules. Using our framework, we address the frustration and anxiety expressed by medical and nursing professionals about their lack of training regarding indicators of child physical abuse (CPA) in the United States. We develop the Computer Simulated Interactive Child Abuse Screening Tool (CSI-CAST), which contains scenarios in a serious game and uses assistive AI technologies to assess a group of users and discover features that are important in indicating the users' collective knowledge identifying CPA. A user study is conducted to show that CSI-CAST is easy to use and it functions to discover specific training needs.


The utility model relates to a multilevel cyclone dust removal device for a vacuum cleaner. The technical problem to be solved is that the multilevel cyclone dust removal device for the vacuum cleaner is provided, which has the advantages that the structure is compact, the dust removal efficiency is high, the dust removal capability strong and sustainable, and the pressure and the loss of flow during the course of dust removal can effectively decreased. The technical scheme to solve the problem is that the multilevel cyclone dust removal device for the vacuum cleaner comprises a dust removal cyclone drum; the lower end of the dust removal cyclone drum is connected with a bottom cover by a sealing ring and the top end thereof is connected with an upper cover by an air venting cylinder, the lateral face of the bottom part of the dust removal cyclone drum is provided with an air inlet, and the top part of the upper cover is provided with an air outlet. The multilevel cyclone dust removal device for the vacuum cleaner is characterized in that the dust removal cyclone drum is internally provided with an upstream cyclone dust removal device and a downstream cyclone dust removal device from top to bottom, the two-level dust removal devices are connected by filtering grids, wherein the inlet of the upstream cyclone dust removal device is communicated with the air inlet, and the outlet of the lower cyclone dust removal device is communicated with the air outlet. The multilevel cyclone dust removal device can be used in the vacuum cleaner.


We fit lattice-QCD data for light-pseudoscalar masses and decay constants, from HISQ configurations generated by MILC, to SU(3) staggered chiral perturbation theory. At present such fits have rather high values of χ2/d.o.f., possibly due to the lack of ensembles with lighter-than-physical sea strange-quark masses. We propose solutions to this problem for future work. We also perform simple linear interpolations near the physical point on two ensembles with different lattice spacings, and obtain the preliminary result ( fK/ fπ) = 1.1872(41) in the continuum limit. XXIX International Symposium on Lattice Field Theory July 10 16 2011 Squaw Valley, Lake Tahoe, California


We present an analysis of efficient undulatory propulsion for slender animals swimming at high Reynolds number. Using Lighthill's large-amplitude elongated-body theory, we show that optimally efficient swimming kinematics can be characterized through a single dimensionless variable $\unicode[STIX]{x1D713}$ . This variable, $\unicode[STIX]{x1D713}$ , is defined by a simple function of a swimming animal's body wave properties. Physically, $\unicode[STIX]{x1D713}$ characterizes how the velocity of an animal's tail varies throughout its swimming stroke. Lighthill's model predicts that swimming efficiency is near optimal in the range $0.3<\unicode[STIX]{x1D713}<1.0$ and peaks at $\unicode[STIX]{x1D713}=0.87$ . At this point, the average magnitude of the tail velocity is minimized and swimming kinematics are tuned such that the thrust coefficient is as close to constant as possible throughout the swimming stroke. We use a compiled dataset of over 250 unique measurements to show that species across a wide range of size and shape fall within the optimal region.


This paper attempts to go beyond actor‐centered explanations of the European Union's (EU) presence in regulatory politics by examining the role of the EU in the diffusion of regulatory norms and practices. We explore the international diffusion of public procurement policy, to which multiple organizations and especially the EU and the World Trade Organization have made an active contribution. Using the "opportunity‐presence‐capability" scheme, we argue that the EU is actively co‐shaping the global agenda on public procurement, mainly as a result of the "opportunity" and "presence" dimensions of its global actorness and its role in the horizontal diffusion of public procurement regulations between international organizations. For "EU as a global actor" literature to offer valuable explanations, an in‐depth analysis of its relationship with other international organizations, such as theWorld Trade Organization, reveals significant interactions and the co‐shaping of policy agendas.


This paper reports the measurement of temperature and concentration dependences of the refractive index of hen‐egg‐white lysozyme (HEWL) solution, and the temperature dependence of refractive index of the quartz container, which are indispensable for the efforts to measure HEWL concentration of the solution during the processes like crystal growth and dissolution using interferometer. As all of these dependences might be different under different observation wavelengths, temperatures and solution compositions, it is necessary to measure them for specific conditions. In this paper, the desired dependences were measured without knowing the actual value of the refractive index. The measurement method was introduced and the measurement experiments were undertaken at wavelength 780 nm. The dependences obtained will be also useful for those studies employing the same wavelength and solution conditions. (© 2003 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)


Many algorithms for point cloud processing especially surface reconstruction rely on normal information available at each point. Normal directions are typically taken from a local tangent plane approximation which is obtained by fitting a surface model to the neighboring point samples. While the direction can be estimated locally, finding a consistent normal orientation over the whole surface is only possible in a global context. Existing methods for this problem can be classified into volumetric and propagation based approaches. Volumetric methods are trying to divide the space into inside and outside regions which is often complicated to implement and have problems with open surfaces and large holes. Propagation based methods can deal with open surfaces but often fail on sharp features. This paper analyses the behavior of surficial orientation methods, gives a better understanding of the underlying model assumptions of existing techniques and proposes a novel and improved propagation heuristic.


the language-experience approach to reading continues to capture the interest of educators across the nation. This adaptable and stimulating technique has been expertly discussed by Allen (1) and Stauffer (27). The current language-experience approach has evolved rather naturally from the use of experience charts to teach young children to read, a practice which was in wide use as early as 1925 (9). Unfortunately, today's exponents of this approach continue to focus attention on young children at the beginning stages of reading. As has been suggested by Edwards (4), this technique can also be extremely effective for illiterate, culturally deprived adolescents and adults.


This paper develops tools to construct Lyapunov functions establishing integral input-to-state stability (iISS) and input-to-state stability (ISS) for several classes of nonlinear parabolic equations. Using these constructions and an infinite-dimensional iISS small-gain theorem we provide a stability criterion for interconnections of iISS parabolic systems. We show that for interconnections of partial differential equations it is essential to choose right state and input spaces, especially for iISS subsystems which are not ISS.


Some research reports that divorce exerts greater negative effects on the mental health of Whites compared with African Americans. However, this literature is limited by inadequate attention to temporal dimensions of marital dissolution, in particular stages of the process and duration in each stage. This study incorporates stage and duration into an examination of race differences in the effects of marital dissolution on symptoms of depression and substance abuse or dependence. Data are drawn from the 1983 Piedmont Health Survey (PHS) of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Epidemiologic Catchment Area Program (N = 1,941). Results suggest that the mental health effects of marital dissolution are not weaker for African Americans; rather, the nature and timing of the effects vary by race. Furthermore, gender interacts with race to influence the impact of separation and divorce on mental health.


There is a group of heavy metals that are mainly known for their fatal toxicological nature whenever they get in contact with animal, human and plants' bodies via the ecological entry route. Metals such as Lead (Pb), Arsenic (As), Mercury (Hg), Cadmium (Cd), and Chromium (Cr) have been identified as some of the potential toxic heavy metals. As a result of the large-scale industrialization taking place in Western Maharashtra state of India, studies have revealed that, the mentioned heavy metals are applied in industries for a number of reasons for manufacturing a number of finished products. Unused/unreacted residual are thereafter passed into CETP plants where effluent treatment fails to fully get rid of them. The heavy metals thereby leak to the groundwater where they cause contamination upon being discharge into creek or rivers by the leaching effect. The contaminated ground water is later used by farmers around the industrial zones for crop cultivation which is afterwards used as food for animals and humans for survival. The heavy metals upon contaminating the ground water do find their way into the plants and ultimately into the animals and human bodies through the food chain. In this study, cow milk samples which were collected across Western Maharashtra were studied for presence of potentially fatal heavy metals like Pb, As, Hg, Cd and Cr via the ICP-MS technique. This study concentrates on the quantity of heavy metals being transported from the industry to the body of living organisms on earth via the ecological route of transportation.


A two-step, microreaction system, operating at two different temperatures and incorporating three-dimensional, serpentine microchannels, was used for the continuous synthesis of CdSe/ZnS and CdS/ZnS nanocrystals. By varying the feed ratios of the precursors, we were able to control the size of both CdSe and CdS nanocrystals (NCs) at a constant temperature and residence time. The application of zinc diethyl dithiocarbamate as a single molecular source allowed the preparation of high-quality, ZnS-capped NCs at 140 °C, which is much lower than the temperatures required for the growth of CdS and CdSe NCs. Furthermore, the size-dependent, optimal reaction time for ZnS capping was obtained. The above results facilitated the continuous synthesis of core/shell NCs with photoluminescence wavelength in a wide range. On the basis of the continuous adjustment of the feed ratios of the precursors and the online switching of precursors and serpentine channels for ZnS capping, we obtained the continuous synthesis of ful...


In the present period of increased global mobility, falling trade barriers and growth in international business, global expansion is a very important factor for most enterprises. The process of going international shows stage by stage how an organisation becomes a transnational corporation. Companies embark on such transformation to improve their market position and to boost their growth. To achieve goals, internalisation has to take account of cultural determinants, as knowledge of cultural factors makes it easier to run a business on an international scale. Entrepreneurs are increasingly aware that the pursuit of formal and rational goals also involves ethical, legal and strategic aspects. This article deals with selected dimensions of national cultures that significantly affect negotiations with foreign partners, production management and the sale of products manufactured by transnational corporations. The article is based on surveys carried out in the textile and clothing industry.


Patient response to immunotherapy has been revolutionary but remains limited due to the inability to convert excluded or cold tumors into ones which would be permissive to therapeutic intervention. To treat patients that evade immune therapy, comprehensive understanding of their tumor microenvironment (TME) is needed. To date, most profiling efforts have lacked the ability to capture high-plex 'omics data while retaining the spatial architecture of the TME. We developed the CosMx™ Spatial Molecular Imager (SMI) for analyzing formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) or fresh-frozen (FF) tissue and capturing the expression of over 1000 RNA targets simultaneously with subcellular resolution from a single histopathology slide. We profiled a cohort of 16 slides with CosMx using the Human Universal Cell Characterization (UCC) Panel across a range of solid tumors. This cohort represents a diverse array of patients which include both infiltrated and excluded tumors. We included technical replicates for 5 of the samples to better understand reproducibility of the assay. We were able to characterize over 4.5 million cells and detected on average over 80% of the panel per patient and assigning more than 95% of the transcripts profiled to unique cells across these samples. We were able to robustly identify more than 20 cell types by integrating our data with previous single-cell sequencing projects from the human cell atlas. We demonstrate robust delineation of critical immune cell populations from across lymphoid and myeloid lineages, as well as stromal cell populations inclusive of cell types frequently missed using dissociated cell sequencing, such as vascular endothelium associated with immune cell migration into the tumor bed. We leveraged 450+ genes from our panel dedicated to cell lineage, cell-cell interaction, and ligand-receptor signaling to identify unique interactions occurring at different scales between the tumor and the TME. We find that diverse mechanisms of immune evasion can be captured, and a clear role for cell types such as SPP1+ Macrophages emerges in multiple cancer types. Utilizing the CosMx platform to profile tissues allows for robust resolution of critical immunogenic signaling cascades and cellular interactions that are necessary to truly understand the tumor architecture. By maintaining the tissue structure, we can directly measure cellular interactions and capture cells commonly missed during dissociative studies. With this new platform, we are better poised than ever to truly understand the molecular mechanisms that drive tumor response to intervention. FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY. Not for use in diagnostic procedures
 Citation Format: Claire Williams, Jason W. Reeves, Patrick Danaher, Shanshan He, Sean Kim, Michael Patrick, Julian Preciado, Mark Gregory, Zach Reitz, Justin Jenkins, Rachel Liu, Sarah Murphy, Christine Kang, Byron Hartman, Vikram Devgan, Michael Rhodes, Joseph Beechem. Spatial insights into tumor immune evasion illuminated with 1000-plex RNA profiling with CosMx Spatial Molecular Imager [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 6765.


The invention relates to an all-year cold supply chiller with natural cooling function. A compressor, an air connecting pipe, a condenser, a liquid connecting pipe, a throttling gear and an evaporator form a steam compression type refrigeration circulation loop; the evaporator, the air connecting pipe, the condenser arranged on the evaporator and the liquid connecting pipe, which are all in the steam compression type refrigeration circulation loop form a cold medium natural circulation loop by opening a heat pipe air valve on a heat pipe branch and a heat pipe liquid valve connected in parallel with the throttling gear, and closing a refrigeration air valve on an air suction pipe of the compressor. The all-year cold supply chiller can adopt an integral structure or a split structure, keeps the function of making air conditioning cold water in summer, can sufficiently utilize the natural cold energy of outdoor air to make cold water in transition seasons and winter, provides cold water for all-year cold supply areas, such as inner zone of buildings and highly heating areas, and has the remarkable advantages of simple structure, high efficiency and energy saving.


Disseminated cutaneous leishmaniasis (DCL) is an uncommon form of Leishmania braziliensis infection. It remains unknown why some people develop this clinical condition. We describe 14 DCL patients in Northeast Brazil during 2015–2018. These patients regularly drank large amounts of alcohol, possibly increasing their risk for DCL.


The study was commenced with the objective to evaluate the effectiveness of various insecticides against citrus psylla, Diaphorina citri during the year 2014-2015 at Pantnagar. Insecticides employed for the evaluation are Novaluron 10 EC, acephate 75 % SP, thiamethoxam 25% WG, acetamiprid 20% SP, spinosad 45 % SC, imidacloprid 17.8% SL, neem (5%). The relative efficacy of each treatment was assessed on the basis of per cent reduction over control where the per cent reduction of nymphal population was recorded to be significantly highest with 91.78 per cent in imidacloprid recording lowest number of 0.66 nymphs/twig/plant at 11 days after 2nd application. During the year 2015 imidacloprid caused highest reduction in the population of psylla nymphs with highest per cent reduction of 74.62 per cent. After 1st application thiamethoxam was found most effective in reducing the population of adults of citrus psylla with highest per cent reduction (77.59 %).


Most conventional wastewater treatment plants need a large surface area for the treatment of their sewage. This is due to the open structure of the biomass used to convert the polluting components in wastewater. Because of the flocculated growth, sludge concentrations in reaction tanks are low and settling times need to be long in order to keep the biomass in the system. This Ph.D. thesis describes the development of a new compact aerobic granular sludge technology, in which the biomass is grown in compact granular structures. The main advantage of this compact growth structure is the higher biomass concentrations that van be reached and that all processes, needed for the treatment of wastewater, can be performed in one (discontinuously operated) reactor. Therefore, 80% less area and 30% less energy is required for the treatment of the wastewater. This process is unique, since by the natural composition of the aerobic granular sludge, combined with different diffusion limitations, all processes for the conversion of the polluting agents can occur in the same granule simultaneously. In the laboratory, biological removal efficiencies of 100% COD (acetate), 94% phosphate and 94% nitrogen (of which full-nitrification) were measured. During the Ph.D. a large-scale design has been made by the engineers of the Dutch consultancy firm DHV. Bottlenecks from practice were translated to scientific research and the results of the research could directly be used in the design. Different bottlenecks that were studied in the laboratory scale research were the influence on conversions and granule morphology of i) the way of influent dosing, ii) the use of a bubble column or airlift (influence of high local shear forces), iii) influence of temperature, iv) type of wastewater. A model for aerobic granular sludge has been developed as well, in order to study the sensitivity of different process parameters on conversion rates and efficiencies. This fast procedure for developing innovations led to a successful pilot scale study at sewage treatment plant Ede, The Netherlands and to the market introduction of this new technology by DHV under the name of NeredaTM.


China's corporate debt has risen sharply since the 2008–09 global financial crisis, although the pace of growth has somewhat moderated due to the authorities' recent financial deleveraging efforts and regulatory tightening. To address the surging debt problem and elevated corporate leverage, comprehensive structural reforms in the corporate, financial, and fiscal sectors are necessary.


82 Background: Contralateral mastectomy (CM) has recently been shown to be associated with survival benefit in women with breast cancer. The objectives of the present study were to describe factors predictive of CM in young women (≤35 years old) with invasive breast cancer and evaluate its impact on survival, in a large population based cohort.

METHODS
All women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer aged ≤35 from 1994 - 2003 treated with mastectomy were identified from the Ontario Cancer Registry. Patient demographics, complete tumour and treatment characteristics were abstracted from primary chart review. Cox proportional hazard regression was performed to assess factors associated with performance of CM and its effect on recurrence and overall survival, performance of CM was modeled as a time varying co-variate. The models were controlled for known predictors including age, tumor size, nodal status, ER/PR, LVI, histologic grade, systemic therapy and adjuvant radiation.

RESULTS
There were 628 women identified. Of these, 101 underwent a CM (16.1%). On multivariable analysis, factors predictive of CM were negative lymph node status (HR: 1.74, 95% CI [1.052-2.872]; p-value = 0.031) and negative estrogen receptor status (HR: 2.7, 95% CI [1.314-5.736]; p-value = 0.007). After a median follow up of 11 years, no significant survival benefit was observed in women undergoing CM compared to those who did not (HR: 0.95, 95% CI [0.61-1.46], p-value = 0.80).

CONCLUSIONS
Performance of CM in young women with invasive breast cancer did not result in a significant survival benefit, compared to those without CM. Factors found to be predictive of performance of CM negative lymph node status and negative estrogen receptor status. Further studies are needed to determine if a subset of young women might benefit from CM.


Electrical fire involves either electrical failure or deliberate act as the source of fire must be proven during the fire investigation. Copper wires are widely used in structure wiring and electrical appliances and they are frequently associated with fire. Therefore, this study focused on the characterisation of copper wire for fire source determination to provide an insight on the feature damage patterns between external flame burnt wires and electrically burnt wires. In this work, electrical wires from two different manufacturers were tested on different simulated fire conditions, i.e. those burned by external flame and electrical overcurrrent condition respectively. Through microscopic examination, the cross sectional morphological features between the two copper wires by different conditions were distinct. The application of Fourier Transform Infra-red spectroscopy technique on the polymeric insulator of the wire samples showed slightly varying spectra for wires following different simulated fire conditions. Further principal component analysis on the FTIR spectra provided a more objective characterisation for samples subjected to external flame and overcurrent conditions. The results signaled the potential of the technique as a tool for fire source determination. In conclusion, the study could differentiate and characterise burnt wires based on their fire sources, aiding the fire investigation, especially in electrical fire cases.


(i) extensive catalogues of DNA sequence variantsacross the human genome are being compiled; (ii) dramaticprogress is occurring in molecular genetic technologies forevaluating the polymorphic sites in human samples withincreasing efficiency and decreasing cost; and (iii) large-scale,population-based human samples are becoming increasinglyavailable, for example, the European Prospective Investigationinto Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC),


Modeling thermodynamics and defect production in plutonium (Pu) metal and its alloys, has proven to be singularly difficult. The multiplicity of phases and the small changes in temperature, pressure, and/or stress that can induce phase changes lie at the heart of this difficulty, In terms of radiation damage, Pu metal represents a unique situation because of the large volume changes that accompany the phase changes. The most workable form of the metal is the fcc (6.) phase, which in practice the 6 phase is stabilized by addition of alloying elements such as Ga or AI. The thermodynamically stable phase at ambient conditions is the between monoclinic (a-) phase, which, however, is approximately 20 % lower in volume than the 6 phase. In stabilized Pu metal, there is an interplay between the natural swelling tendencies of fcc metals and the volume-contraction tendency of the underlying phase transformation to the thermodynamically stable phase. This study explores the point defect production and migration properties that are necessary to eventually model the long-term outcome of this interplay.


This article reports a numerical study on the roads to chaos for a transient laminar natural convection in a square enclosure with horizontal adiabatic walls. The other walls, composed of two regions of the same size, were assumed isothermal. Transfer equations were solved using the vorticity-stream function formulation. The effects of Rayleigh number on heat transfer were also analyzed, and the roads to chaos borrowed by the convective flow. As the Rayleigh number increased, the flow structure started from four-cells to oscillatory three-cells. The first Hopf bifurcation was observed. Quasi-periodic flows appeared before the chaos onset.


In the above article [Conner KP, Rock BM, Kwon GK, Balthasar JP, Abuqayyas L, Wienkers LC, and Rock DA (2014) Drug Metab Dispos 42:1906–1913], the dye product, LI-COR IRDye800CW (LI-COR Biosciences, Lincoln, NE), was twice referred to—in the Abstract and Introduction—as Food and Drug Administration–approved; however, clinical trials for this product are not yet complete and the Food and Drug Administration has not approved this dye product.


On the basis of analyzing the existing problems in the experimental teaching of the current Computer Composition Principle course, this paper takes the training of computer system ability as the guide, draws lessons from the practical teaching reform experience of the domestic first-class university and introduces the virtual simulation experiment platform: Logisim. The in-class experiment projects and the extracurricular big homework project based on the simulation platform reasonably have been set up and good results have been achieved in developing students' systematic ability in practical teaching.


This article is about the latest explosive devices, not secret ones,since patents are public. Nowadays there are hydrides of various metal and alloys, capable of bonding and releasing hydrogen. Under certain conditions, the release process is of an avalanche type and occurs in a form of a "physical" explosion. The paper deals with the method of providing conditions for the avalanche-type release. The method of obtaining necessary parameters of hydrides is described as well as the tendencies in the development of explosive devices.


We present the polarization observations toward the circumstellar disk around HD 142527 by using Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array at the frequency of 343 GHz. The beam size is 0.″51 × 0.″44, which corresponds to the spatial resolution of ∼71 × 62 au. The polarized intensity displays a ring-like structure with a peak located on the east side with a polarization fraction of P = 3.26 ± 0.02%, which is different from the peak of the continuum emission from the northeast region. The polarized intensity is significantly weaker at the peak of the continuum where P = 0.220 ± 0.010%. The polarization vectors are in the radial direction in the main ring of the polarized intensity, while there are two regions outside at the northwest and northeast areas where the vectors are in the azimuthal direction. If the polarization vectors represent the magnetic field morphology, the polarization vectors indicate the toroidal magnetic field configuration on the main ring and the poloidal fields outside. On the other hand, the flip of the polarization vectors is predicted by the self-scattering of thermal dust emission due to the change of the direction of thermal radiation flux. Therefore, we conclude that self-scattering of thermal dust emission plays a major role in producing polarization at millimeter wavelengths in this protoplanetary disk. Also, this puts a constraint on the maximum grain size to be approximately 150 μm if we assume compact spherical dust grains.


In order to understand the impact of water-salt on spatial development of cotton roots under mulch drip irrigation, 144 root samples were collected in the flower and boll stage for two different treatments irrigated with saline groundwater and fresh surface water using same irrigation system. Screening out cotton roots from the soil with 1 mm soil sieve and hand-picking, removing dead roots, scanning into a tif format images after washing, then the root length density was obtained through DT-SCAN software calculation. The results show that the distribution area of roots under mulch drip irrigation with saline water is larger and total root length density (31.69 mm/cm3) is bigger than that with fresh water. The depth of root for saline water irrigation is much greater than that with fresh water because of salt stress. Root distribution is mainly affected by salt stress under saline water irrigation; however, it is affected by water stress under fresh water irrigation. Water stress plays a leading role in root development 40 cm away from the emitter at the horizontal direction. When the volumetric water content of soil is greater than 20 % and the electric conductivity is smaller than 2000 μs/cm, the root can grow and develop normally.


To what extent do different Windows PC characteristics increase the modeling efficiency of R? Do some programs or versions of R run better on different PCs? And for which kinds of models do enhanced PCs and clusters diminish processing time? This research note seeks to provide novice to intermediate level R users with a framework for understanding the benefits of explicit parallel processing and upgrades in PC hardware for large datasets and computationally burdensome models. We compare the relative benefits of each optimization with simple efficiency tests. In addition, we provide basic R code to make the transition to parallel processing easier for novice users without networked labs or cluster access.


Abstract Construction projects usually get delayed for several time periods. When the planning horizon of a project is extended, projections for purchase and salvage of machinery within the planning horizon become inaccurate and less beneficial and often lead to unexpected costs. In this article, we formulate a parallel machine replacement (PMR) problem as a two-stage stochastic program with an uncertain planning horizon. We consider renting as an alternative to purchasing and maintaining the machinery. We show the application of the model through a case study in construction projects. Through numerical analysis, we derive managerial implications and show the value of the stochastic model.


New achievable rate regions are derived for the two-user additive white Gaussian multiple-access channel with noisy feedback. The regions exhibit the following two properties. Irrespective of the (finite) Gaussian feedback-noise variances, the regions include rate points that lie outside the no-feedback capacity region, and when the feedback-noise variances tend to zero the regions converge to the perfect-feedback capacity region. The new achievable regions also apply to the partial-feedback setting where one of the transmitters has a noisy feedback link and the other transmitter has no feedback at all. Again, irrespective of the (finite) noise variance on the feedback link, the regions include rate points that lie outside the no-feedback capacity region. Moreover, in the case of perfect partial feedback, i.e., where the only feedback link is noise-free, for certain channel parameters the new regions include rate points that lie outside the Cover-Leung region. This answers in the negative the question posed by van der Meulen as to whether the Cover-Leung region equals the capacity region of the Gaussian multiple-access channel with perfect partial feedback. Finally, we propose new achievable regions also for a setting where the receiver is cognizant of the realizations of the noise sequences on the feedback links.


Many recent intelligent transportation systems (ITS) deployments feature vehicle probes as prominent sources of information about traffic conditions in addition to, or in place of, fixed-location measurement devices such as inductive loop detectors. Several other technologies now used for traffic surveillance and deployed in fixed locations are reviewed and found to provide the same kinds of information as more complex probe vehicle systems. Recent experience with both fixed location and vehicle-based incident detection systems is summarized. Several incident detection algorithms calibrated with both fixed-location and vehicle-based traffic measurements from a simulation of a signalized arterial street are introduced. The performance of these algorithms, some of which use data from only one source while others use data from both sources, is compared. While the fixed-location measurements appear to be superior to the probe reports for detecting incidents when used alone, different incidents are detected by their respective algorithms. Algorithms using both sources of data perform substantially better than either single-source algorithm, indicating that there is value in collecting information using both methods.


We present a multi-stage stochastic programming model for managing portfolios of stock and bond indices denominated in multiple currencies. The portfolios are exposed to market risks and currency risks. Uncertainty in asset returns and exchange rates is represented by means of discrete distributions (scenario sets) in a way that captures empirically observed asymmetries and fat tails in the distributions of these random variables and their correlations. The stochastic programming model takes a holistic view of the problem and determines the optimal asset allocation as well as risk hedging decisions by means of forward contracts and options. The options are priced consistently with the postulated scenario sets for the underlying securities, while also satisfying fundamental non-arbitrage principles. The modeling framework provides a basis to investigate the performance of alternative risk management strategies. Through extensive computational experiments, both in static as well as in dynamic settings we demonstrate (a) the benefits of international diversification, (b) the impact of alternative hedging strategies – including options – to control the main risk exposures, (c) the relative performance of alternative risk hedging strategies and alternative model forms. We find that additional benefits are gained as a progressively integrated view towards total risk management is taken, i.e., as the constituent risks are jointly controlled through appropriate means.


Electric vehicles (EVs) can be leveraged as power resources to support the grid operation in challenging scenarios, e.g., natural disasters or health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper aims to enhance equity of power resilience in urban energy systems by means of strategic allocation of EV charging infrastructure. We first use data-driven approaches to infer the relationships between communities' power resilience equity and available EV charging infrastructure as well as other prominent social-demographic factors. This inference leads to the development of a machine learning model for power resilience inequity prediction. We further develop an optimization frame-work that jointly considers equitable resiliency and resource utilization to guide the optimized EV charging infrastructure allocation across the city. Case studies demonstrate the capability of the devised approach in enhancing power resilience equity in marginalized communities.


Radioisotopes have found wide use in chemistry because of their distinctive qualities. The case with which a radioisotope is detected and the precision, with which it can be measured, even in minute quantities, leads to not only its use as analytical tool of great versatility but the phenomenon like co-precipitation, solvent extraction, chromatographic and ion exchange methods, surface absorption, mechanism of inorganic and organic reactions, structural confirmations, all can be investigated. At present there are up to 200 radioisotopes used on a regular basis, and most must be produced artificially. There are several books available written by persons of international fame in this field. This presentation has emerged from the author's lectures given during various physical chemistry courses in the last many years and presented in a simple way so that the students would be better equipped for mastering any advanced level course in the field of Radiochemistry and Nuclear Chemistry. This book covers the following topics: Nuclear decay, Radioisotopes, Kinetics of decay, Radioactive measurements, Statistics, Chemical effects, Mossbauer spectroscopy, Chemical applications, and Hazards.


Background The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of dynamic volumetric computed tomography angiography (DV‐CTA) for endoleaks detected but not classified by conventional CTA in patients after endovascular aortic repair. Methods and Results From January 2016 to October 2017, 24 patients with endoleaks with aneurysm sac enlargement detected but not classified by conventional CTA were randomly assigned to the conventional CTA group and the DV‐CTA group for further evaluation. The amount of contrast agent, radiation dosage, and changes in creatinine during the operation were compared between the 2 groups. Reintervention was performed according to the endoleak classification followed by the 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up. The accuracy of classifying endoleaks by DV‐CTA was comparable to that by digital subtraction angiography. Additionally, the total amount of contrast agent and the radiation dosage in the DV‐CTA group during the operation were diminished by 14.0% (P=0.007) and 12.1% (P=0.004), respectively, compared with those in the conventional CTA group. No contrast‐induced nephropathy was observed. All endoleaks were treated instantly after identification. No endoleaks were found in any of the patients during follow‐up. Conclusions DV‐CTA could replace digital subtraction angiography as an alternative method for the classification of endoleaks that cannot be differentiated by conventional CTA. Additionally, the amount of contrast agent and the total radiation dosage were substantially reduced, which improved safety among operators and patients.


Synthesis conditions are established and boron chelate compounds are synthesized with general formulas [(H3BO3)x·gl]·nH2O, (where x=1-3; gl-glutamine acid, n=1;2) (I) and [(H3BO3)x·Mt]·2H2O (II) (where x = 1; 2; Mt-methionine). The composition, individuality, and qualitative solubility in different solvents of the synthesized compounds are determined. Thermal analysis determines the nature of the thermal decomposition of the compounds. The degree of dissociation of chelates and the dissociation constants are determined based on the conductometric study. An experiment was conducted on a broiler to study biological activity. Dynamics of broiler live mass, absolute live weight gain, daily weight gain, fowl keeping, feeding expenditure for a one-kilogram weight gain, broiler growth efficiency. It has been established that the usage of chelate boron in broiler feeding had a positive effect on all of the abovementioned parameters and the optimal dose of chelate is 100 mcg. per one kilogram of food.


Background and Purpose—The "2 simple questions" were designed as an efficient way of measuring outcome after stroke. We assessed the sensitivity and specificity of this tool, adapted for use in 8 European centers, and used it to compare outcomes across centers. Methods—Data were taken from the Biomed II prospective study of stroke care and outcomes. Three-month poststroke data from 8 European centers were analyzed. Sensitivity and specificity were assessed by comparing responses to the 2 simple questions with Barthel Index and modified Rankin scale scores. Adjusting for case mix, logistic regression was used to compare patients in each center with "good" outcome (not dependent and fully recovered) at 3 months. Results—Data for 793 patients were analyzed. For the total sample, the dependency question had a sensitivity of 88% and a specificity of 77%; the recovery question had a sensitivity of 78% and a specificity of 90%. Dependency data from Riga had much lower sensitivity. There was variation in good out...


Recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) in children is defined as at least three episodes of pain that occur over at least three months and affect the child's ability to perform normal activities. The prevalence of recurrent abdominal pain in a population of schoolchildren varies from 10% to even 45%. Pituitary disorders are rarely considered as causative factor in children with abdominal pain, especially in absence of midline facial defects and in case of emergency, when growth monitoring is neglected or not performed carefully. Herein we report an unusual case of RAP caused by secondary adrenal insufficiency. An 8-year-old girl was hospitalized repeatedly because of RAP. Biological parameters including white blood cell count, hemoglobin value, C-reactive protein, glucose, electrolytes were within the normal range. Low cortisol combined with low ACTH values was the clue for diagnosis. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pituitary region revealed anterior pituitary hypoplasia and pituitary stalk interruption. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of child with RAP caused by pituitary disorder. Possible inherited, autoimmune and post-traumatic causative factors are discussed.


In this essay(study), the current Constitutional limit and the rule of Local tax ordinance of the autonomy in taxation of local governments is discussed. As the rule of law in taxation article 59 of the Constitution and the provision of article 117, para, 1 of the Constitution which says the ordinance should be defined within the range of statutes. And then It should be note that the rule of Local-tax-ordinance of the autonomy in taxation of local governments is need throuh the judicial review. But, the method through interpretations of statutes is not enough but the improvement in a legislative viewpoint according to the change in economical circumstances, such as the provision of article 117, para, 1 of the Constitution and so forth. In order to the rule of Local-tax-ordinance of local governments and the reduction of the tax revolt, it is reviewed the public legal status, autonomous power of the local government and the legal status of the Local tax code. And Administrative district should be reestablished to widen with metropolitan in the center so as to the taxpayer's right and the democratic legitimacy of the autonomous taxing power (of the local government). It should be enacted the statute which endowed "the rule of Local tax ordinance of the autonomy in taxation of local governments" in the Constitution.


Abstract Dated raised beach deposits mean that Low Flat, Raoul Island, has risen an average of 8 mm/year during the last 440 years.