The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of flowers ethanol extract of Elsholtzia splendens (ESE) on the antioxidant defence system in mice with 7,12-dimethylbenz(α)anthracene (DMBA)-induced oxidative stress. The ESE was pre-administered orally to 2 groups of mice at 10 and 50 ㎎/㎏ body weight (BW) for 5 weeks. Subsequently, mice with pretreatment of ESE received DMBA intragastrically at a dose of 34 ㎎/㎏ BW twice a week for 2 weeks. In DMBA alone group, biomarkers of oxidative stress (TBARS value, carbonyl content, and serum 8-OH-dG) were significantly increased. Also, the antioxidant enzymes were down-regulated. ESE significantly restored the TBARS value and carbonyl content at both doses, while a decrease in the elevated serum 8-OH-dG content was observed only at the higher dose. The DMBAinduced decreases in catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were restored to nearly control levels by ESE. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) and glutathione reductase (GR) activities, as well as the reduced glutathione (GSH)/oxidized GSH (GSSG) ratio, were significantly affected by ESE at the higher dose. These results suggest that ESE possesses antioxidant activity, which plays a protective role against DMBA-induced oxidative stress.


Ultrasonic machining with workpiece rotation is an alternative to further increase the area of application of non-traditional manufacturing. This is a process variant of ultrasonic machining (USM) process. This is a very useful process where machining of hard and brittle material becomes very difficult or in some cases it is impossible to machine these materials by conventional methods. Selection of parameters has been done for achieving the better results (Metal Removal Rate (MRR), Surface Roughness (SR)). Therefore considering all the economic and precision factors, maximization of MRR, minimization of SR criteria's were followed. In this study experiments have been conducted on solid cylindrical Borosilicate glass rod by one-factorat-a-time approach and output characteristics have been measured and studied.


suggested that the ideal root canal obturating material should be well-adapted to the canal walls and its irregularities and the entire length of the canal be densely compacted with homogenous mass of gutta-percha. Several materials and techniques have been developed for achieving a successful obturation,guttapercha is the most commonly used root canal obturation material and its physical properties have made it possible to use it in several different techniques (4) . Lateral condensationoffers the advantage of controlled placement of the guttaperchainto a root canal. However, the final root canal filling may lackhomogeneity and must rely on sealer to fill the voids between theindividual cones (5) . Vertical condensation, as described by Schilder (6) , uses heat to produce a homogeneous and dimensionallystable gutta-percha mass for obturation of the root canalsystem. However, the improved flow of the thermoplasticizedgutta-percha can result in overextension of the gutta-percha intothe periapicaltissues (7) . Additionally, this technique can betime consuming to perform . In recent years, new endodontic pastes and sealers have been proposed as innovativefilling materials. The root canal filling paste GuttaFlow (Coltène/Whaledent, Langenau,Germany) includes the combination of gutta-percha in powder form and polydimethylsiloxane. Nanometer-sized particles of silver were


The properties of carbon nanotubes can be dramatically altered by the presence of defects. In this work we address the properties of two dierent kinds of defective nanotubes: junctions of achiral tubes with topological defects and partially unzipped carbon nanotubes. In particular, we begin by focussing on the interface states in carbon nanotube junctions between achiral tubes. We show that their number and energies can be derived by applying the Born‐von Karman boundary condition to an interface between armchair- and zigzag-terminated semi-infinite graphene layers. We show that these interface states, which were thought to be due to the presence of topological defects, are in fact related to the graphene zigzag edge states. Secondly, we study partially unzipped carbon nanotubes, which can be considered as the junction of a carbon nanotube and a graphene nanoribbon, which has edge features giving rise to novel properties. Carbon nanoribbons act as transparent contacts for nanotubes and viceversa, yielding a high conductance. At certain energies, nanoribbons behave as valley filters for carbon nanotubes; this holds considering electron‐electron interaction eects. Furthermore, the application of a magnetic field turns the system conducting, with a 100% magnetoresistance. These novel structures may open a way for new carbon-based devices.


Osteosynthsis for the intracapusular fracture of the femoral neck with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) was performed in 5 cases. All of them were females and their ages were from 49 to 74 years old; the average age at the time of fracture was 64.2. They were suffering from RA for 1 to 35 years and had stage II to IV, class 3, 4 of RA. All cases were treated by multiple pinning, including the fracture types of Garden's stage II, III and IV. Non-union was seen in one patient who developed osteonecrosis, though the others showed favorable bone union.Osteosynthesis for the femoral neck fracture is recommended for RA patients in dependent of Garden's stage.


This paper describes the total syntheses of spirooliganones A and B, which provides control over the stereochemistry of the spiro center via a cascade reaction involving the in situ formation of an o-quinone methide and a hetero-Diels–Alder reaction.


trality of Indigenous women and children to both Native and colonial futures. Jakes's recognition of Indigenous women across the spaces of empire provides an opening to consider how empire relies on violence against Indigenous women and children, as well as the role the schoolprison trust in containing them. Jakes's remapping of colonial and Indigenous worlds reveals the schoolprison trust as a form of colonial counterinsurgency against Native women and children who embody the symbolic and material manifestations of sovereign Native worlds. In this chapter, Vaught, Brayboy, and Chin connect the schoolprison trust to the patterns of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, itself a mode of containment for those gendered and racialized subjects who are rendered surplus within colonial capitalism. Chapter 3, "Slipstream Shuffle," closes the volume by returning again to Jakes's mocking refusal of the ideologies and practices that animate the schoolprison trust. The authors see Jakes's use of humor as evidence of the ways Black radicalism and Indigenous refusal dream of futures beyond colonial capitalism. Assert himself as both sovereign and fully human, Jakes refuses the colonial bifurcations that hold Blackness and Indigeneity apart. Instead, he reaches across and through colonial categorizations so that free futures beyond trusteeship might emerge. The SchoolPrison Trust is a model of thinking that looks toward emergent forms of freedom and selfdetermination, as they exist within present realities of confinement and circumscription. The book will be of interest to scholars working in the fields of Education, Carceral Studies, Native Studies, and Black Studies, among others. Offering generative insights about the carceral nature of schools and the pedagogical functions of incarceration, it will be particularly useful for those scholars studying the intimate relationship between incarceration and education.


Generally, the polarimetric phase difference between the VV and HH channels is interpreted in terms of the spatial difference between the HH and VV scattering centers. In the case of interferometry, the phase difference at a particular polarization combination is usually interpreted as a three-dimensional position of a scattering center, allowing one to reconstruct the topography of the scene. Recent results from polarimetric radar interferometers suggest that a slightly different phase value is measured when different polarizations are used at each end of the interferometric baseline. If this interferometric phase difference is indeed interpreted in the same way as the traditional interferometric phase, it suggests that a slightly different elevation would be measured at each polarization, leading to the idea that polarimetric interferometry could provide information about the vertical structure of vegetation. This paper examines the relationship between the phase measured by a radar polarimeter and a radar interferometer.


The insulation state assessment of two 200 kV HVDC XLPE cables, which have been in operation for 5 years, were performed after a breakdown fault. The electrical test including broadband dielectric spectrum (BDS) test and breakdown strength test. The material test including thermal stimulation current (TSC) test, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test, infrared spectrum test, degree of crosslinking test, and thermal elongation ratio test. The results show that the TSC and DSC test can represent the differences due to different breakdown energy between two cables. And the BDS, TSC and DSC test can distinguish between old and new cables. Meanwhile three indicators, including infrared spectrum, degree of crosslinking and thermal elongation ratio test of old cables were even better than new cables.


Eva Hoffman's Lost in Translation:A life in a New Language is prominent in that it spares no effort elaborating on the author's personal experience in acquiring her second language(L2)English from the view of sociolinguistics.In this vein,by in vestigating the underlined relationship between language learners'cultural identity and language identity from the perspective of sociolinguistics,the paper aims to explore the possibilities of assisting L2 learners reach a balance in their biological,cultural,so cial,and psychological domains of life.


Group based moving frames have a wide range of applications, from the classical equivalence problems in differential geometry to more modern applications such as computer vision. Two important applications explored by the authors have been to curvature flows and their relations to integrable systems, and to the calculus of variations. Here we describe what we call a discrete group based moving frame, which is essentially a sequence of moving frames with overlapping domains, and we show that this offers significant computational advantages over a single moving frame for the main application we discuss and develop, namely, to discrete integrable systems. We demonstrate that the discrete analogues of some curvature flows naturally lead to Hamiltonian pairs, which generate integrable differential-difference systems. In particular, we show that in the centro-affine plane and the projective space, the Hamiltonian pairs obtained can be transformed into the known Hamiltonian pairs for the Toda and modified Volterra lattices respectively under Miura transformations. We also describe in detail the case of discrete flows in the homogeneous 2-sphere and we obtain realizations of equations of Volterra type as evolutions of polygons on the sphere.


To overcome the challenge in radiation therapy of delivering the prescribed dose to cancer cells while sparing normal tissue, preferential introduction of high Z material to tumour cells works as a method of radiation sensitization. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are very useful in this respect. It has been shown that the size, shape, and surface properties of GNPs affect their cellular uptake. Manipulation of the cell cycle to arrest cells at different stages offers a unique strategy to study the molecular and structural events as the cell cycle progresses. To optimize delivery of GNPs into tumour cells and enhance the effect of radiosensitization, nanoparticle (NP) uptake in synchronized populations of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells was investigated.

Populations of MDA-MB-231 cells were first synchronized in S-phase using double-thymidine block, and allowed to progress through cell cycle in synchronization. Synchronized cells were incubated with 5 nm GNPs, 15 nm GNPs, 46 nm GNPs and two formulations of lipid NP encapsulated 5 nm GNPs. Uptake of NPs was visualized using hyperspectral optical imaging and quantified with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Following internalization of GNPs, cells were irradiated with 6 MV photon beams from a linear accelerator, and the survival fraction and induced deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage were studied.

Cell cycle analysis after a double-thymidine block showed that the cell population was well synchronized. Uptake of NPs was 1.5-2 times higher in synchronized cell population compared to the control where cells were at different stages of the cell cycle. Clonogenic studies were used to evaluate the cell survival following radiation treatment. After a dose of 2 Gy, there was a decrease in cell survival fraction in synchronized cells treated with GNPs prior to radiation treatment compared to unsynchronized cells (control) indicating GNP-mediated dose-enhancement. The protein γ-H2AX, which is recruited to sites of DNA double strand breaks, was fluorescently labeled to evaluate damage due to the radiation treatment. Our results show more DNA double strand breaks in cells treated with GNPs prior to radiation. Interaction of ionization radiation with GNPs inside of cells produce secondary electrons. These secondary electrons can interact with water molecules and produce additional free radicals. These low energy electrons and free radicals interact with important cell structures and could cause cellular damage. Cell cycle synchronization has been shown to enhance GNP/PEG/RGD uptake in MDA-MB-231 cells resulting in greater cell radiosensitization and cellular damage. Cell synchronization is therefore an additional method available that can be employed to improve GNP uptake in cells.


The Western view of China and Japan is often based on a perception that they are both Confucian and, therefore, are more similar than is actually the case. Although both do share some fundamental characteristics of Asian culture, certain unique features of each, particularly at the level of social relationships and cultural landmarks, make them quite different. Analysing what these features are allows us to understand what influence they have on personal choices and on the decisions of leaders on important issues in these countries. The Asian financial crisis of 1997–99 can be taken as a useful acid test for evaluating the different decision‐making capacities of the Chinese and Japanese leaders. Currency devaluation, exchange rate intervention, banking system restructuring, economic reforms, and responses to international pressure were the main areas in which government action took place. Interpreting the decisions made in these areas from a geographical‐cultural perspective provides a solid basis for analysing geopolitical dynamics and the 'global' prospects of the two most important nations of the Far East.


Objective: The objectives of the study was to determine the frequency of otitis media with effusion in children presenting with cleft palate in our setup Methods: Study Design was cross sectional. Patients with cleft palate who presented in the Department of Otolaryngology, Capital Hospital, Islamabad over a period of 5 years were included in the study by Non-Probability, Consecutive Sampling. These included 102 (n=102) children of both genders, aged 2- 12 years, who presented with untreated cleft palate and fulfilled the criteria for selection and consented for the study. Study population was subjected to Otoscopy and Impedance measurements, to detect the presence or absence of otitis media with effusion. Collected data was entered and analyzed by SPSS version 20. Results: The age range of patients was 2 - 12 years with a mean of 7.71+3.38 years. Majority of the patients were aged between 10-12 years (47.0%), followed by 2-5 years (27.5%) and 6-9 years (25.5%). Gender distribution showed a male preponderance with male to female ratio M:F = 1.83:1. Otitis Media with Effusion was noted in 74 (72.5%) cases with no statistically significant difference in the frequency of OME across age (p=0.988) and gender (p=0.956) Conclusion: The frequency of otitis media with effusion was found to be 72.5% in children presenting with cleft palate with no statistically significant difference in the frequency of OME across age and gender groups. This indicates a huge burden of hearing and speech disabilities which will occur if this is left unidentified and untreated. Keywords: Cleft palate, otitis media, effusion


A comprehensive guide to applying three well-known variance reduction techniques is given, including point and interval estimators, software requirements, and guidelines for experiment design.


An intense pulsed electron beam traversing a thin metal plate creates a volume of dense plasma. Current flows in this plasma as a result of the charge and magnetic field introduced by the relativistic electrons. A magnetic field may linger after the electron beam pulse because of the conductivity of the material. This field decays by both diffusing out of the conducting matter and causing it to expand. If the magnetized matter is of low density and high conductivity it may expand quickly. Scaling laws for this acceleration are sought by analyzing the idealization of a steady axisymmetric flow. This case simplifies a general formulation based on both Euler`s and Maxwell`s equations. As an example, fluid with conductivity {sigma} = 8 x 10{sup 4} Siemens/m, density {rho} = 8 x 10{sup -3} kg/m{sup 3}, and initially magnetized to B = 1 Tesla can accelerate to v = 10{sup 4} m/s within a distance comparable to L = 1 mm and a time comparable to {sigma}{mu}L{sup 2} = 100 ns, which is the magnetic diffusion time. If instead, {sigma} = 8 x 10{sup 3} Siemens/m and {rho} = 8 x 10{sup -5} kg/m{sup 3} then v = 10{sup 5} m/s withmore » a magnetic diffusion time {sigma}{mu}L{sup 2} = 10 ns. These idealized flows have R{sub M} = {sigma}{mu}vL = 1, where R{sub M} is the magnetic Reynolds number. The target magnetizes by a thermal electric effect.« less


The analysis of some features of identity and style of activity on selection of the skilled and professionally taken place teachers working as «station wagons» in an initial link of school in comparison with teachers-subject teachers, working at the main school is carried out. Basic distinctions in style components of the activity, connected with activization of intellectual activity of pupils (are more developed at elementary school teachers) and with organizational actions (are more developed at subject teachers), which have metaeffects concerning identity and activity of their pupils are found.


This study aims to analyze the processing of chitosan-pectin biocomposite hydrogel with the addition of citric acid to improve the quality of the biocomposite for primary wound dressing applications. The method is printing the biopolymer solution in a glass mold, then drying at 50oC. Chitosan 90.2% DD and pectin dissolved in 1% acetic acid with a ratio (w/w) of 50:50. The two ingredients were mixed using a magnetic stirrer at room temperature for 30 minutes until completely dissolved, then added citric acid crosslinking agent with various concentrations of 2,4, 6,8,10 (%). The test results for the characteristics of the chitosan-pectin-acid biocomposite Citrate obtained the best thickness in the composition variation (50:50:8) of 0.31 mm. The analysis results of the best absorption of the chitosan-pectin-citric acid biocomposite on the composition variation (50:50:6) were 185%. In the swelling analysis of the chitosan-pectin-citric acid biocomposite, the variation in composition (50:50:10) was 403%. The tensile strength test results of the chitosan-pectin-citric acid biocomposite decreased with the addition of citric acid, the best obtained was 20.76 MPa, and the best elongation was 76.0%. Test results for the functional group of the chitosan-pectin-CaCl2 biocomposite for the presence of O-H, C-H, N-H bonds in the fact of O-H, C-H, N-H bonds at a wavelength of 4000-2500 cm-1, C=O, C=N, C=C at a wavelength of 2000 -1500, and the specific absorption of the chitosan-pectin-citric acid biocomposite 400-1400 cm-1 indicates that the resulting membrane tends to be polar, hydrophilic and environmentally friendly because it can be degraded. Based on the expected test results, it was shown that the chitosan-pectin-CaCl2 biocomposite has the potential to be applied as an ideal primary wound dressing for wound healing and protection.


Smoraget al.--Frozen Storage of Laboratory Animals, (1981), pub Verlag, N.Y., N.Y., pp. 45-53. Taylor, M. J., et al., "Interaction of Cooling Rate, Warming Rate, and Extent of Isolated Rat Islets of Langerhans During Cryopreservation', Diabetes, vol. 36, pp. 59-65 (1987). Lafferty, K. J., et al., "Prevention of Rejection by Treatment of the Graft: An Overview", Transplanation: Aproaches to Graft Rejection, pp. 87 to 117 (1986). Nanchahal, J., et al., "Cultured Composite Skin Grafts: (75) Inventors: US005171660A


Plasma anti‐Xa activity, the recommended test to monitor low‐molecular weight heparin (LMWH) therapy, is not readily available in many laboratories. In our clinical trials on the use of LMWH as anticoagulation for haemodialysis, a consistent prolongation of APTT in addition to the elevated anti‐Xa activity was observed in the patients after LMWH administration. Hence, the paired anti‐Xa activity and APTT data were re‐analyzed. The APTT ratio, which was the proportional change in APTT from the baseline value after LMWH administration, was found to have a strong correlation with anti‐Xa activity (coefficient of determination, R 2 = 0.72, P < 0.001). In the receiver operating characteristic analysis, the APTT ratio was also found to be an excellent predictor of therapeutic anti‐Xa activity ≧0.5 IU/mL (area under curve = 0.93, P < 0.001). The sensitivity was 88% and the specificity was 83.3% when an APTT ratio ≧1.4 was used as the cut point to predict the achievement of therapeutic anti‐Xa activity. Our results illustrated that APTT is a potentially useful screening test to assess the degree of anticoagulation achieved by LMWH during haemodialysis, if the testing for plasma anti‐Xa activity is not available.


Detergent soluble extracts of differentiated regions of the Porphyra perforata J. Ag. thallus (holdfast, rhizoidal, vegetative and reproductive cells) were fractionated on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. Glycoproteins were identified by their lectin affinity. Extracts from all areas of the thallus contained glycoproteins, but the staining patterns were different for each region with each of the lectins tested: concanavalin A, Ulex europeaus agglutinin, Ricinus communis agglutinin, soybean agglutinin and peanut agglutinin. These data indicate that the morphologically distinct regions of the thallus also differ biochemically. Analysis of the lectin blots revealed the presence of tissue‐specific glycoproteins in the five thallus areas. Such unique glycoproteins could be used as markers of differentiation in this species.


Objective To explore the value of diffusion tensor imaging(DTI)in analyzing glioma.Methods Twenty patients with glioma received DTI examination.The average ADC value and FA values in the area of lesion,peritumoral edema,cerebrospinal fluid and white matter on the opposite side were measured and compared between high-grade glioma and low-grade glioma.Results There were significant statistical differences of average ADC value and FA value among the area of peritumoral edema and the area of lesion,cerebrospinal fluid and white matter in the opposite side.The average ADC and FA values in the area of lesion were significantly different from those in the area of cerebrospinal fluid and white matter on the opposite side.Significant statistical differences of the average ADC values other than FA values were observed between the malignant and the benign gliomas.Conclusion It is helpful to employ DTI to analyze glioma and its association with white matter fiber.


Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune, acute fulminant polyradiculoneuropathy. Incidence is between 1- 4 cases per 100,000 per year. It can affect age groups such as both young and old. The distribution depending on age-specificity appears to be bimodal, and has high rates in young adults as well as the elderly. Mostly manifests as rapidly evolving areflexic motor paralysis with a usual ascending type of paralysis. Autonomic involvement is common with usual manifestations of loss of vasomotor control such as BP fluctuations, postural hypotension, and arrhythmias. Deep tendon reflexes are diminished or disappear in the first few days of disease onset. Several cases have been reported with descending type of paralysis, but they were patients of Miller Fischer syndrome variant of GBS. Only 15% of the cases were reported regarding descending type of paralysis in AIDP variant of GBS. Our patient presented with unusual descending paralysis, starting with the upper limbs and progressively involving weakness of the lower limbs. The patient did not have any comorbid illnesses rather than recent gastrointestinal infections. In the progress of the disease, he developed respiratory complications for which he needed ventilator support and with all supportive care and keen monitoring, the patient was weaned off from the ventilator, a tracheostomy done, and improved. Thus presenting a case of Guillain Barre syndrome with an unusual descending type of paralysis and with all other typical symptoms of this condition, who have been treated with high dose IV immunoglobulin, creates awareness in view of diagnosing the disease even with unusual presentation would save the life of the patient, instead presenting the usual case scenario or rare disease case.


The invention relates to semiconductor devices and a driving method capable of shortening conduction time. N+layers (29) are only formed at the right side in a leftmost groove (26) and a third groove (26) from the left. N+layers (29) are only formed at the left side in a second groove (26) from the left and a rightmost groove (26). By the above structure, two sides provided with n+layers (29) are oppositely arranged in a first groove area. In a second groove area, two sides not provided with n+ layers (29) are oppositely arranged. An emitting electrode connecting opening portion (321) of a layer insulation film (32) is only formed in the first groove area, not in the second groove area. Therefore, a p-layer (25) in the second groove area is approximatively regarded to be arranged opposite to a p-layer (25) in the first groove area or an emitting electrode (31) in a floating mode.


We present direct, pressure‐dependent measurements of OH yields from gas‐phase ozone‐alkene reactions, using the Harvard HOx instrument to obtain sensitive, accurate, and precise OH concentrations. As in previous studies from our laboratory, steady‐state [OH] is measured by laser‐induced fluorescence (LIF); here, the accurate LIF calibration allows us to present absolute OH yields for the first time. To calibrate our original LIF system, we measure yields from ozone plus tetramethylethylene (TME) as a function of pressure. The pressure dependence agrees with our previous results, so our yield measurements are now of comparable accuracy to those from indirect studies. Prompt, low‐pressure yields agree well with 1 atm yields measured over longer timescales, confirming that much of the OH arises from decomposition of stabilized carbonyl oxides. We also explore the pressure dependence of yields from ethene, isobutene, and isoprene. Yields from isobutene and isoprene are pressure‐dependent, consistent with the formation of substituted carbonyl oxides. We observe no pressure dependence of the OH yield from ozone + ethene, finding instead a constant yield of 14%, in line with most 1 atm studies but in contrast with the results of another pressure‐dependent study.


In this paper, we propose a scheme about blind signature based on quartic residues, and present a formal proof for its security. Because the security of the scheme is based on the factorization problem of large integer, we discuss the relationship between them both in detail.


The work presented a research method of using the external magnetic field to do a numerical simulation of micro bionic fish. The fishtail skeleton was made of alloy sheet and the fish tissue was stuck on the alloy sheet with giant magnetostrictive material (GMM). Then the mechanical model of bionic fish was established. By controlling the swaying of fishtail through external magnetic frequency adjustment, it is possible to make the fish move about just like a natural fish. The statistics show that the average driving force when the bionic fish is switched on largely depends on the material parameter, blood viscosity and external magnetic frequency. The average driving force will increase with the growing elasticity modulus (EM) of fishtail material and blood viscosity. The bionic fish can get a quite large driving force particularly when the external magnetic frequency is getting close to the natural frequency of the system. Thus, these findings can serve as a major train of thought and gist for the design and control of micro bionic fish in vessel.


Astronomy is producing the largest "Big Data" sets today and in the near future, with instruments such as the Atacama Large Millimeter and sub-millimeter Array (ALMA), the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST), and the Square Kilometer Array (SKA). These observations afford a deeper, wider, and more dynamic glimpse into the structure and composition of the universe than ever before. However, in addition to unprecedented volume, the data also exhibit unprecedented complexity, mandating new approaches for extracting and summarizing relevant information. ALMA data, in particular, challenges with very high dimensionality (measurements in a large number of spectral channels) where the dimensions represent both compositional information and velocities, and the high spectral resolution allows detailed interpretation of the kinematic structure of sources such as molecular clouds or protoplanetary disks. Traditional tools like moment maps can no longer fully exploit and visualize the rich information in these data. We present a neural map-based clustering approach that can utilize all spectral channels simultaneously and is capable of finding clusters of widely varying statistical properties, which are expected in these complex data sets. Many clustering methods, including modern graph segmentation algorithms, run into limitations when encountering such data. We demonstrate our tools, collectively named "NeuroScope", through structure mining from an ALMA image of the protoplanetary disk HD142527. We highlight the advantages for both the emerging details and visualization. In addition, we explore an augmentation of leading graph segmentation algorithms with NeuroScope products, which can lead to efficient full automation of our clustering process for fast distillation of large data sets on-board or in archives.


THE IMPORTANCE OF A MISUNDERSTOOD AND MISAPPROPRIATED CONCEPT The hypothesized link between the self-concept and various social problems has commanded a long-standing place in social and psychological theory as well as public discourse. Nowhere is this notion more strongly held than in the presumed relationship between self-esteem and various social and emotional difficulties, especially – though certainly not exclusively – with regard to youth problems (Smelser, 1989). It is not uncommon to hear parents, educators, politicians, and religious leaders blame school failure, delinquency, risky sexual behavior, impudence, drug and alcohol abuse, and more on children's diminished self-esteems (California Task Force to Promote Self-Esteem and Personal and Social Responsibility, 1990; Mecca, Smelser, & Vasconcellos, 1989). Indeed, shortly after President Clinton's reelection, USA Today reported Secretary of Health and Human Services Donna Shalala as saying that, if she remained in the president's cabinet, she would work to raise the self-esteem of the nation's children. The typical discourse on the relationship between self-esteem and various social and emotional problems is twofold. Self-esteem, it is argued, safeguards people against the ill effects stemming from many of life's problems. This premise assumes that people with high self-esteem, in contrast to those with low self-esteem, will behave in more socially acceptable and responsible ways, will somehow be more resilient to life's vicissitudes, will generally display higher achievement in conventional pursuits, and will ultimately possess greater socioemotional well-being (Burns, 1979; Covington, 1992). This rationalist view of high self-esteem is deeply embedded in Western culture, but especially American.


Rapid growth in the automation of business transactions has lead to an explosion in the size of databases. It has been reali sed for a long time that the data in these databases contains hidden information which needs to be extracted. Data mining is a step in this direction and aims to find potentiall y useful and non-trivial information from these databases in the form of patterns. As the size and complexity of these database increases, the question that normally arises is "Are the existing data mining techniques eff icient enough for large databases"? This paper addresses this issue and looks at an alternative approach, Inductive Logic Programming, and its integration with deductive databases. This integration leads to development of a system called GLIDE (Generali sed Logical Inductive and Deductive Environment).


A networked control system where sensor ( ), controller ( ) and an actuator ( ) are interacting to the process model or system through a communication channel. The model reliability depends on time delay of data transmission from to , to , controller processing time and packet dropouts. In this proposed work, model based network system is designed to achieve the desired response of the controlled system by minimizing the network time delay and improves con-troller performance in term of stability. Time delay mainly occurs due to time sharing of the medium as well extra overload of signal coding and processing phase. The time delays could be steady, limited, or even random, depends upon protocol used in the network and hardware. The network predictive control tech-nique effectively works on random delay. The predictive controller is used to analyses the future output conditions of the system based on the previous values. The simulated result shows that if time delay increases, the response of the system degraded and therefore for improving it the correct choice of prediction and control horizon is needed. The designed networked control system based on predictive functional control is simulated using True Time tool on Matlab. The ob-tained outcomes from the proposed technique accomplishes that the technique is effective and feasible.


The histocompatibility of polyurethane (PU) modified by superfine silk-fibroin (SF) powder (1 : 1) with different dosage of aspirin to determine the best dosage for histocompatibility was investigated. Aspirin powder was incorporated into SF–PU (1 : 1) blend mixture at doses of 0%, 5%, or 10% (w/w). The influence of different doses of aspirin on histocompatibility of the hybrid material was studied by using morphology examination, infrared spectroscopy, in vitro drug release study, and in vivo tests including an acute toxicity test, an assessment of local reaction in the muscle, hematological examination, and histological examination. SF–PU (50 : 50) blend film had superior performance over the polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE) film in terms of histocompatibility, and the anti-inflammatory/anti-platelet effects were improved after integration with limited doses of aspirin to yield a valuable drug release vascular graft. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40580.


The present invention relates to a switch fastball same manner as in the mixed MCU control scheme to automobile lamp for one to be a turn-on control of the lamp control device and a hybrid method. That is, the present invention switches fastball same manner as the building MCU control scheme in which the lamp lighting circuit mixed, and the lamp with the brake pedal and switch-on according to a depression, and that light in the minimum turn-on time, after a subsequent predetermined period of time has passed, by ensuring that the lamp turn-on logic by the MCU control method proceeds, at the same time to minimize the turn-on time of the light intended to provide a hybrid car lamp control apparatus and method to extend the lamp life.


The eukaryotic genome is packaged into chromatin. The nucleosome, the basic unit of chromatin, is composed of DNA coiled around a histone octamer. ABSTRACT The eukaryotic genome is packaged into chromatin. The nucleosome, the basic unit of chromatin, is composed of DNA coiled around a histone octamer. Histones are among the longest-lived protein species in mammalian cells due to their thermodynamic stability and their associations with DNA and histone chaperones. Histone metabolism plays an integral role in homeostasis. While histones are largely stable, the degradation of histone proteins is necessary under specific conditions. Here, we review the physiological and cellular contexts that promote histone degradation. We describe specific known mechanisms that drive histone proteolysis. Finally, we discuss the importance of histone degradation and regulation of histone supply for organismal and cellular fitness.


Methyl bromide has been applied to California strawberries for forty years. However, it will be banned in the United States and other developed countries in 2005. Critical use exemptions provide a mechanism that allows its continued use after this date for industries that do not have technically and economically feasible alternatives, and are consequently subject to significant market disruption. Integrating scientific and economic results from a multidisciplinary research project, we evaluate whether California strawberries are eligible for a critical use exemption.


A framework for a pavement management system employing mechanistic performance submodels for pavement behavior is presented. These performance submodels explain the development of the physical distresses in fundamental terms. This approach enables the individual distress modes to be addressed in pavement management strategies. It also forms the basis for a dynamic programming optimization scheme. The performance submodels are based on a reliability formulation incorporating full-distribution uncertainty information of the variables. They provide the transition probabilities for the optimization that determines the optimal strategy for rehabilitation from a set of alternatives subjected to management and operational constraints. The optimization also yields the expected annual performance in terms of the distresses and the expected capital outlay required to implement the strategy.


Trichophyton rubrum is the most common cause of dermatophyte skin infections in humans worldwide. The aim of the current study is to search for effective and safe antifungal agents by investigating the bioactivity of Pimpinella anisum and Moringa oleifera extracts, including the impact on the keratinase gene expression of T. rubrum. Astragalin and cryptochlorogenic acid were detected in M. oleifera leaf extracts by Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), whereas anethole was extracted from P. anisum oil. The expression of the keratinase gene was assessed in two strains of T. rubrum (KP979791 and KP979787) in Sabouraud Dextrose Broth (SDB) medium (containing 10% keratin) separately supplemented with plant extracts fractions. The results showed that cryptochlorogenic acid and astragalin were active compounds (molecular weights of 353.26 and 449.35 g/mol, respectively that considerably down-regulated the keratinase genes in both strains of T. rubrum. M. oleifera crude extract, astragalin, cryptochlorogenic acid, anise oil, and anethole resulted in the down-regulation of the keratinase genes of T. rubrum strain KP979791 by 0.048, 0.291, 0.001, 0.007, and 0.009 (foldchange), respectively, and that of strain KP979787 by 0.151, 0.42, 0.16, 0.079, and 0.092 as compared to the control (1.00). Nearly all of these outcomes are novel findings that may aid in the identification of novel effective drug targets and antifungal agents.


The aim of the study was to establishdistribution of pink snow mold on turfgrass and to improve the measures for disease control. The crop survey was carried out in the Polissya, Forest-Steppe and Steppe areas. For the identification of pathogens, a selection of plant samples was carried out with further analysis in laboratory conditions. Experiments were carried out during 2015-2018 on the lawn mixture "Universalna". The effect of fungicides of various chemical groups and their mixtures was investigated. Treatment was carried out prophylactically in the fall before installing the snow cover. The assessments were performed according to generally accepted methods; disease spread, disease severity and technical efficiency of pesticides were determined. Symptoms of pink snow mold were fixed annually with a large variation in the spread and severity of disease. Its highest development was recorded in the Zhytomyr region during the vegetative period 2017/2018 , which is associated with a longer period of snow cover. The use of fungicides and their mixtures significantly reduced the number of infected plants, but the protective fungicidal action varied. The most effective was the use of a tank mixture of fungicides Maxim 025 FS (0.4-0.75 l/ha) with Horus 75 WG (0.3-0.6 kg/ha). The average level of fungicidal action was demonstrated by Horus 75 WG, Amistar Gold 250 SE and Amistar Extra 280 SC - 51.4-60.5%. In addition, due to the decrease in the disease development, positive effect on the formation of the quality of the lawn was achieved, projective coverage increased from 62 to 86%. During 2015-2018, the results of the monitoring of the emergence and development of diseases showed that turfgrass was annually affected by snow mold. Development of the disease reached 14,7-26,4%.  Preventive spraying of grass in the autumn period protects plants against pink snow mold in the spring. Under application of a mixture of fungicides Maxim 025 FS + Horus 75 WG high level protection was obtained. Depending on the flow rates it varied from 85.3 to 91.5%. Projective coverage thus increased from 62% to 80-86%.


The traditional sterilization method exists among the tribal societies. Therefore it is more important to study among them how they have been controlling their population with the help of their traditional knowledge of an easy method of sterilization. The present article has been divided into two parts. In the first part the discussion is being made on the preponderance of witchcrafts witch doctors and the medicinemen in Nicobar Islands. It deals with two villages of Konda Reddis of Bison Hill in Andhra Pradesh besides a brief discussion of on Archipelago and the tribals of forested hill villages in mainland itself The second part deals especially with the medicinemen of both the study areas in island and mainland of India with special emphasis on the sterilization of women. (authors)


Due Date 31 October 2018 (M32) Deliverable Number D7.4 WP Number WP7 Responsible Van den Oosterkamp (Paul) (ECN part of TNO) Author(s) Van der Welle, A.J. (Adriaan), De Nooij, M. (Michiel), Mozaffarian, M. (Hamid) Reviewer Víctor Codina Gironès (EPFL), Herib Blanco (RUG), Simon Verleger (DVGW), Frank Graf (DVGW), Andreas Zauner (EIL), Robert Tichler (EIL) Status Started / Draft / Consolidated / Review / Approved / Submitted / Accepted by the EC / Rework


In order to improve the acoustic behavior of an electric drive train a holistic simulation approach is presented, that consider the interactions of structural mechanics and electrodynamics. The electromagnetic forces in the motor influence both the rotor dynamics and the structural vibrations and thus the sound radiation. Even small variations of the air gap lead to changes in the electrodynamic field, which cause a change in the resulting loads and therefore vibration excitation. Additionally load- and operation-dependent deformations of the stator and rotor are problematic. These influence the electrodynamically excited structural vibrations as well as the rotor dynamic loads. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the electro- and structural-dynamic effects together. In this study, the finite element method (FEM) is used to determine both the deformation of the structure and the electromagnetic forces. The forces, for instance as a function of the current rotor eccentricity, are used as excitation in a multi-body simulation (MBS) and thus allow the description of the structural vibrations, whereby bearings such as ball bearings or hydrodynamic bearings can be taken into account. The resulting vibrations influence the electrodynamic forces by changing the air gap. In addition the sound radiation of the vibrating structures is studied. To validate the results, a prototype of the electric motor will be analysed on a test bench. Subsequently, design measures can be evaluated based on possible improvements by means of parameter studies, without the necessity of real prototypes. The presented methodology is usable in a wide range of applications and not limited to the investigated engine.


HE major driving force in the development of electrical vehicles for urban transport is the environmental and economic issues. Traction motor selection is a key component of EV. With rapid transportation transition, it increases substantial awareness of the parameters used in the selection of motors. Switched Reluctance (SR) motors are currently used in a variety of applications in the sectors of EV, electrical aircraft, renewable energy, domestic appliances, and wind turbines [1,2]. Because of SRM provides simple structure, robustness, high starting torque, fault tolerance, high speed operation and low manufacturing costs [3-


One of the most fun demonstrations in a freshman mechanics class is the levitation of a ball in a steady air stream even when the jet is directed at an angle. This and other demonstrations1 are often used to argue for the validity of Bernoulli's principle. As cautioned by some authors,2–4 however, it is important to avoid making sweeping statements such as "high speed implies lower pressure" with respect to interpreting the popular demonstrations. In this paper I present a demonstration that can be used in conjunction with the discussion of Bernoulli's principle to encourage students to consider assumptions carefully. Specifically, it shows that a correlation of high speed with lower fluid pressure is not true in general.


Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the application feasibility of information technology (IT) for achieving agility in a typical manufacturing organisation.Design/methodology/approach – A literature study was conducted. It was found out that IT is not fully utilised for achieving agility in certain traditional manufacturing sectors. An implementation study was conducted in an Indian electronics switches manufacturing organisation to identify the causes of this insufficient utilisation. Finally, a feedback session was conducted to explore the practitioners' views of this research.Findings – The outcome of this research indicated the feasibility of adopting IT for infusing agility in contemporary manufacturing organisations.Research limitations/implications – This research was conducted in only one electronics switches manufacturing organisation situated in India. This may lead to the impression that the findings from this research may not represent all manufacturing organisations. However, t...


BACKGROUND
Renal transplantation has been shown to be the best therapeutic option in end-stage renal disease patients. En bloc transplantation of pediatric kidneys into adult recipients (EBKT) is one strategy to increase the donor pool. We here report on 10 to 22 years of follow-up (median of 12.8 years) of patients receiving EBKT in a single-center, retrospective cohort study.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
The mean donor age was 14 ± 12 months and mean donor body weight was 8 ± 3 kilograms. Thirteen recipients (6 females, 7 males) were followed for 10 to 22 years. The mean recipient age was 44 ± 13 years at the time of transplantation.

RESULTS
Two of 13 patients lost their grafts in the first week because of hemorrhagic infarction of the kidney transplants or sepsis (septic shock). Only 1 patient had an acute cellular rejection, which was successfully treated with steroids and anti-CD3 antibody. Eleven out of 13 patients after EBKT survived and had a functioning graft 10 to 22 years after successful EBKT. The serum creatinine was 1.34 ± 0.6 mg/dl at 5 years (n=11), 1.37 ± 0.7 mg/dl at 10 years (n=11), 1.40 ± 0.6 mg/dl at 15 years (n=4), and 1.08 mg/dl at 20 years after EBKT (n=2). The eGFR, evaluated by using MDRD-2, was 66.5 ± 22 ml/min/m2 at 5 years (n=11), 62 ± 28 ml/min/m2 at 10 years (n=11), 56 ± 23 ml/min/m2 at 15 years (n=4), and 61 ml/min/m2 at 20 years after EBKT (n=2). Proteinuria did not increase significantly within the observation period.

CONCLUSIONS
In our experience, if the acute post-operative phase is uncomplicated, EBKT has excellent long-term graft and patient survival.


Quantitative EEG data a total of 885 healthy subjects of both sexes from 7 to 89 years, neurologically and intellectually normal were studied. All subjects have been divided into 20 age groups. EEGs were recorded at 19 scalp locations in two conditions of subjects with closed and opened eyes. Standard valuations EEG power spectra and EEG Independent Components (ICA) power spectra in four frequency ranges 1-4 Hz delta, 4-8 Hz theta, 8-12 Hz alpha and 13-21 Hz beta for each group of subjects are defined. Tables of confidence intervals with 0.95 levels for each electrode channel in case of EEG power spectra and for 12 independent components in case of ICA power spectra are constructed. The received data may give to EEG specialists objective criteria for diagnostics of brain dysfunctions.


The development of telecommunications today make the need for communication of data quickly and efficiently is also one of his company besar.IPv4 scale to support 32-bit addressing and developed IPv6 supports up to 128 -bit addressing and also developed a routing protocol that works padaIPv6.Routing protocol always to update the routing table, with the use of IPv6 has a huge addressing whether the effect on the quality ofnetwork.Skripsi is structured to determine the Quality of Service of the Routing Information Protocol version 1 , Routing Information Protocol version 2 , and Routing Information Protocol next-generation data networks PT . Pertamina RU II Dumai . Performed using the general network simulator 3 software and software wireshark . Analysis of the results of the design using three perangka trouter counted Quality Of Service obtained the value of total delay RIPv2 routing smaller average 11.2 % of the RIPv1 routing . While smaller RIPng routing of routing RIPv2 19.4 % and 28.5 % smaller than the total packet routing RIPv1.Nilai lossrouting smaller RIPv2 routing RIPv1.Sedangkan 15.9 % from 5.2% RIPng smaller than RIPv2 routing and 20.3 % smaller than RIPv1 routing. The total value of RIPv2 routing throughput greater than routing RIPv1 43.6 % and 63.9 % greater than the total value RIPng.Sedangkan routing throughput greater routing RIPv1 routing RIPng.Dengan 35.9 % compared to the use of six devices total RIPng router routing delay average , total packet loss , and total troghput small compared to most other routing . Keywords: Routing RIPv1, RIPv2, RIPng, IPv4, IPv6, QOS,GNS 3


a colour atlas of temporal bone surgical anatomy is available in our book collection an online access to it is set as public so you can get it instantly. Our books collection spans in multiple locations, allowing you to get the most less latency time to download any of our books like this one. Merely said, the a colour atlas of temporal bone surgical anatomy is universally compatible with any devices to read.


This research presents a quantitative analysis of the programming of international series in Spanish generalist channels from 1990 to 2010. It describes the nationality, original broadcasting network, format and series with the highest number of aired episodes and highest audience. Programming trends regarding formats, themes and series within different time slots are also discussed. During the period studied, the formats with the highest broadcast time and audience were North American network sitcoms and procedural series. The international series played an essential role in the launch of private networks (which used them as fillers) and were a reliable asset in prime time. American series helped generalist channels to distinguish their offer in a highly competitive television ecosystem.


The development of the logistic sector among the last decades has allowed the growth of organizational competitive advantages through the concept of reverse logistics. This concept allows the efficient and effective management of product recycling once they life-cycle is finished. Although the practice of reverse logistics as part of a sustainable strategy for the management of the supply chain, there is no much literature about its practice in Colombia. In this context, this paper is a first approach to the investigation of reverse logistics practices in Colombian enterprises. After a first analysis of the definitions of reverse logistics, some conceptual models are presented. The paper then analyses three cases from industry that are concerned with the practice of recycling of paper and reusing of electronic waste.


To solve the problems of difficult information acquisition and diffusion as well as the high cost in farmers' cooperatives,a metadata representation standard of the information aggregation for farmers' cooperatives based on the XML schema was proposed.The data transferring processes and the information customized and intelligent pushing mechanisms were designed.Based on a two-tier deployment,the farmer professional cooperative information system was built.The information service center was combined with the agricultural search engine(AgSoso)to provide the latest information resources for the remote system in the farmers' cooperatives.The client system not only realized the local information management,but pushed the products and other information to the information service center.Proved by applying,the method is characterized by low solution input,low maintenance costs,high information resource utilization,and it has a high practical application value,which provides the farmers' cooperatives a technical solution based on the multi-source data aggregation service.


Objective: To construct the glucose-activated human proinsulin gene recombinants intensively expressing mature insulin in hepatocytes. Methods: To perform B10 site-directed mutagenesis in the B-C and C-A site-mutated human proinsulin gene. Then the glucose-responsive elements (GLRE3) specifically expressing in hepatocytes and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 promotors(IGFBP-1P) were ligated to the upstream of the mutated human proinsulin gene. The three site-mutated human proinsulin gene containing regulatory elements (GLRE3-IGFBP-1P-3mINS) was inserted into the retroviral vector (pLXSN) after restrictive endonuclease digestion, and transfered into rat′s hepatocarcinoma cells CBRH7919 mediated by liposomes. The mature insulin level was detected in the culture media and the expressive difference between GLRE3-IGFBP-1P-3mINS and two site-mutated human proinsulin gene recombinants (GLRE3-IGFBP-1P-2mINS) was compared. Results The sequence of CAC coding for Histidine at B10 site of human proinsulin gene was mutated to the sequence of GAC coding for AsparticAcid. The retroviral vector plasmids containing three site mutated human proinsulin gene and regulatory elements(pLXSN- GLRE3- IGFBP-1P-3mINS) was constructed, and the correctness of base sequence and colligated direction was identified via restriction endonuclease,PCR,and sequencing. The recombined plasmids was encapsuled by liposomes and transfered to the hepatocarcinoma cells.The insulin level measured in the culture media containing 5.0mmol/L and 25mmol/L of glucose was 5.03±0.72、43.90±2.30mU/L respectively. While the insulin level under same glucose concentretion in the culture media of the hepatocarcinoma cells transferred with two site-mutated human proinsulin gene recombinants was2.00、2.10±0.23mU/L correspondingly. Conclusions: The recombined plasmids of the mutated human proinsulin gene and retroviral vector weve constructed successfully, the mutated human proinsulin gene was colligated with regulatory elements at the upstream and the coding sequence of the B10 site was modified to the coding sequence of aspartic acid. The recombinants was integrated into the genome of the hepatocarcinoma cells, which may secret mature insulin regulated physiologically by glucose and the expressive efficiency was enhanced significantly.


Metallo-enzymes are ubiquitous. More than 30% of enzymes present a metal ion in their active sitethat is a key for catalysis. Interesting sub-families present a mononuclear active site where a single metal ion(Zn2+ or Cun+) is coordinated to a polyhistidine core. The elaboration of model compounds of such metalloenzymesis important for understanding the fundamental mechanisms involved in their bio-catalytic cycles. Inthis context, we have developed three generations of calix[6]arene based biomimetic complexes that combine ametal ion and a hydrophobic cavity.1 These metal complexes display a single coordination site accessible for anexogenous ligand that is fully controlled by the hydrophobic funnel. One of the ligand belonging to the thirdgeneration of compounds combines a calix[6]arene pocket to a tren cap (tren = [tris(2-aminoethyl)amine]).Calix[6]tren shows remarkably versatile host-guest properties either toward ammonium ions, polar neutralmolecules and metal ions (Zn and Cu).2,3 Very interestingly, the protonation of the apical nitrogen atom allows acontrol of the environment on the host-guest properties. The development of efficient synthetic methodologiesfor the selective functionnalization of calix[6]tren is now required in order to obtain water-soluble or graftableanalogues.In this context, we have successfully obtained a new generation of calix[6]tren ligands decorated withappending arms (i.e. 3 and 4). The key step of their synthesis consists of a [1+1] macrocyclisation reactionbetween a trisamine calix[6]arene and a tris-acid cap. The host-guest properties of the intermediatecalix[6]trenamides4,5 (1 and 2) were studied by 1H NMR spectroscopy. It was shown that these tris-amidoreceptors are able to selectively recognize polar neutral guests displaying H-bond donor and acceptor groups,fluoride anion and contact ammonium fluoride salts. Finally, the efficient binding of Zn2+ by the two calix[6]trenligands 3 and 4 has been clearly observed by 1H NMR spectroscopy, paving the way to development of watersolubleand graftable calix[6]tren based complexes.


Historical essay of membrane theory development in Biophysics from the beginning of XX century by its thread quarter is included in article.


RANK/RANKL/OPG ligand-receptor system is a key player in bone homeostasis regulation directly regulating osteoclast differentiation and osteolysis. Disbalance of bone homeostasis associated with malfunctioning of RANK/RANKL/OPG system underlies such oncological processes as the destruction of bone, metastasis development, tumor progression. Involvement of RANK/RANKL/OPG system in the development of metastasis from various tumors is practically confirmed, but its influence on the development and progression of primary bone tumors still needs thorough evaluation. , In this paper experimental and clinical-laboratory data on the role of RANK/RANKL/OPG system in primary bone tumors pathogenesis available in modern literature are summarized with special attention,paid to giant-cell bone tumor (GCBT) that is already treated with RANK/RANKL interaction inhibitor denosumab. Results of authors study of the levels of RANK/RANKL/OPG system,s components in blood serum of 101 malignant bone tumor (37 – osteosarcoma, 41 – chondrosarcoma, 12 – chordoma, 7 – Ewing sarcoma, 2 – pleomorhic undifferentiated sarcoma, 2 – fibrosarcoma), 32 borderline GCBT, and 30 benign bone tumor patients are also presented. The disturbances in the balance of osteolysis activators and inhibitors in patients with primary bone tumor depending both on the character of neoplasm (malignant, borderline or benign), and histological structure of malignant tumors were demonstrated. The most striking changes in RANK/ RANKL/OPG system manifesting itself in an increase of serum concentrations of all its components and strengthening of association between the levels of soluble receptor and its natural inhibitor OPG were revealed in giant-cell bone tumor patients. The study of the role of RANK/RANKL/OPG system in primary bone neoplasms is a topical goal for clinical investigations; it is also a promising tool for development of new diagnostic methods and for targeted application of specific drugs inhibiting its activity.


This paper addresses the challenge of engaging civil society stakeholders in the development process of ambitious mitigation scenarios that are based on formal energy system modeling, which allows for the explicit attachment of normative considerations to technology-focused mitigation options. It presents the definition and model results for a set of mitigation scenarios for Germany that achieve 85% CO2 emission reduction in 2050 relative to 1990. During consecutive dialogues, civil society stakeholders from the transport and electricity sector framed the definition of boundary conditions for the energy-economy model REMIND-D and evaluated the scenarios with regard to plausibility and social acceptance implications. Even though the limited scope of this research impedes inferential conclusions on the German energy transition as a whole, it demonstrates that the technological solutions to the mitigation problem proposed by the model give rise to significant societal and political implications that deem at least as challenging as the mere engineering aspects of innovative technologies. These insights underline the importance of comprehending mitigation of energy-related CO2 emissions as a socio-technical transition embedded in a political context.


The dispersion diagrams of certain metamaterial structures exhibit a near-zero phase propagation constant beta within a restricted range of frequencies (therefore behaving as a near-zero refractive index material). This special characteristic is exploited to synthesize uniformly illuminated arrays. Design theory is elaborated and simulated results are presented, showing a satisfactory performance for the designed array.


Objective To explore the value and clinical guidance significance of color Doppler ultrasonography in the diagnosis of chronic renal insufficiency. Method 56 patients with chronic renal insufficiency were selected as the study objects,and selected another 30 healthy people as the control group. Color Doppler ultrasonography was applied in detecting haemodynamics indicators of all artery blood vessels for patients,counted and compared the PI,RI of two groups; then uroflow speed,morphology and micturition frequency in urinary bladder opening were observed after patients drinking plenty of water. Results After analysis,the blood flow speed of all artery blood vessels,uroflow speed and micturition frequency of patients with chronic renal insufficiency were slower than control group,and PI,RI were significantly higher than control group,differences were statistically significant( P 0. 05). Conclusion Applying color Doppler ultrasonography in the examination of patients chronic renal insufficiency can provide guidance for clinical treatment,which is based on renal fucntion and blood vessel.


It is a controversial issue whether the electric current pulse (ECP) has an inoculation effect on the solidification process. Two different high chromium cast irons were modified with the ECP above the freezing point temperature to investigate this issue. According to the statistical results of the number and size of primary phase grains, it was found that the ECP did not have an inoculation effect on the hypoeutectic high chromium cast irons (HOHCCI) whose primary phase was austenite. However, it had a significant inoculation effect on the hypereutectic high chromium cast irons (HEHCCI) whose primary phase was M7C3 carbides. The result indicates that the response of different primary phases to the ECP inoculation effect was different. The cause of the phenomenon is further analyzed by simulating the diffusion of atoms in the melt and comparing the binding forces of atomic clusters. The analysis shows that although the ECP can increase the number of atomic clusters (composition close to the primary phase) in the melt, the number of clusters retained to the nucleation temperature after the ECP removal is different because the binding forces of clusters in two melt is different.


The invention discloses a device and a method of image processing. The image processing device comprises a sampling unit, an amplifier, an analog-digital converter and a white balance unit. The sampling unit is used for carrying out sampling on a pixel to obtain pixel voltage. The amplifier is used for amplifying the pixel voltage according to analog gain. The analog-digital converter is used for converting the amplified pixel voltage into digital pixel data, and the digital pixel data comprise a plurality of first sub-pixel data corresponding to different colors. The white balance unit is used for obtaining a plurality of second sub-pixel data by carrying out white balance compensation on the first sub-pixel data according to the analog gain and a plurality of white balance gain corresponding to different sub-pixels.


Collisionless space plasmas exhibit complex behavior on many scales. Fortunately, one can identify a small number of processes and phenomena, essentially shocks, reconnection and turbulence that play a predominant role in the dynamics of a plasma. These processes act to transfer energy between locations, scales and modes, a transfer characterized by variability and three‐dimensional structure on at least three scales: electron kinetic, ion kinetic and fluid scale. The nonlinear interaction between physical processes at these scales is the key to understanding these phenomena. Current and upcoming multi‐spacecraft missions such as Cluster, THEMIS, and MMS only study three‐dimensional variations on one scale at any given time, but one needs to measure the three scales simultaneously to understand the energy transfer processes and the coupling and interaction between the different scales. A mission called Cross‐Scale would comprise three nested groups, each consisting of up to four spacecraft. Each group wou...


Based on mean field methods a technique is presented for examining the coherent and incoherent reflection of acoustic waves from a spatially randomly variable surface with constant impedance mismatch along the surface. The power in the scattered component is shown to be proportional to the fourth power of frequency at low frequencies (the Rayleigh limit) and is roughly a constant fraction of the input power at high frequencies. The spatial wave‐number variation of the scattered field depends sensitivity on the wave‐number spectrum of the spatial fluctuations of the random surface, as well as on the mean position of the surface. The effect on the coherent component of the reflected acoustic field is as though the interface moved its mean position as a function of frequency, with no displacement at low frequencies tending toward a constant displacement at high frequencies. The technique is applicable to more complex wave/media interactions.


The cellular fatty acid compositions of 26 strains of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and 17 strains of methicillin‐susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) were analyzed by gas‐liquid chromatography. The fatty acid compositions of the two groups were very similar with 16 identified components. The major fatty acids were Ci14 = 0, Ci15 = 0, C18 = 0 and C20 = 0. Among these fatty acids, the percentage of the Ci15 = 0 fatty acid component of MRSA strains (11.4 ± 3.9%) was statistically higher than that of MSSA strains (6.2 ± 2.4%) (p < 0.001). On the other hand, the percentage of the C20 = 0 fatty acid components of MRSA strains (20.2 ± 8.8%) was statistically lower than that of MSSA strains (30.7 ± 10.4%) (p < 0.001). The production of beta‐lactamase and beta‐hemolysin in both groups' strain was also unrelated to the relative amounts of the fatty acid components. These results indicated a statistical tendency for the percentage fatty acid compositions of the MRSA strains to be quantitatively different from those of the MSSA for both the Ci15 = 0 and C20 = 0 fatty acid components. Analysis of the fatty acid compositions may have an application in the differentiation of MRSA and MSSA strains.


It introduces the method of improving No.1 conveyor of S100 roadheader in this article.And it can strengthen the anti-bend ability of scraper and lengthen its service life with the pair of motors to drive the No.1 conveyor.


As wireless communication and mobile devicesadvances, recommendation system is one of the keytechnologies to realize personalized service. This paperproposes a service recommendation mechanism using aprobabilistic model in mobile devices. With the contextualinformation and the use's demand state inferred by the model, we can recommend a service to meet the user's preferencesand needs at real time. Finally, the model checking method is used to verify the reliability of the service composition recommended by the above method.


This document presents a modification of the existing tool AgentJ which allows for running a Java routing protocol within the network simulator NS2.


Atmospheric 7Be is used as a tracer of stratospheric and upper tropospheric air, but most measurements of 7Be in surface air have been restricted to continental regions. We report here the extensive temporal and areal distribution of atmospheric aerosol 7Be concentration in the marine boundary layer. Measurements of 7Be have been carried out for the weekly filter samples collected at the Pacific island stations where are located between 30° N and 30° S in 1981 and 1985. High annual mean concentrations among the stations are observed at latitude between 20° and 30° in both hemispheres. There is little seasonal variation of 7Be at the nine stations. The lowest concentrations are found in the equatorial region due to relatively little subsidence of the air from the upper layer in this area and high precipitation within the ITCZ (intertropical convergence zone) resulting in rapid removal of the aerosol containing the 7Be. The significant correlation between the 7Be concentrations and the nitrate concentrations at the stations in the North Pacific supports the assumption that nitrate is transported from continental sources to the marine boundary layer through the free troposphere by the westerlies.


This report summarises the annual rainfall of the River Derwent catchment area and examines the floods of 1931 and 1932. The author uses data from the Meteorological Office to examine if the floods were extraordinary and takes into account local lakes in reducing the magnitude of the flood. Areas that are presented in more detail are Bassenthwaite Lake, Thirlmere, Cockermouth, Keswick, Newlands and Coledale Beck. (PDF contains 38 pages)


Kisaksa in the Bashkir Turkish (in Russian castitsa) means structures similar to postpositions. For this term, researchers have adapted such words as enclitic, "ek edat" (suffix-postposition) and strengthening postposition or emphatic postposition. In this study, it is defined as a particle. Particles assign various modality senses to sentences in which they are used. They are used in the Bashkir Turkic widely. In spite of a unity in terms of meaning in Bashkir grammars, there are also noteworthy differences in the classification of particles. Among these classifications, a certain group of particles stands for grammatical functions; and others symbolize various modality senses within words or sentences they are used. In this study, we address the second group as modality particlas (modal kisaksa). In this study, by means of examples excerpted from literary texts in the Bashkir Turkish, we aim to determine the modality senses such as confirmation and affirmation, emphasis, suspicion, hesitation, etc. which are referred to by modality particles of da (da, Âa, Âa, la, la, ta, ta) , dabaha (dabaha, Âabaha Âabaha, labaha, labaha, tabaha, tabaha), bit, indi.


The invention provides an opened PaaS (Platform as a Service) platform, namely, a cloud supermarket system which is similar to the Apple Store and has more powerful functions than those of the Apple Store as well as is used to upload more types of software and support more operating systems and various development tools. Users can select, purchase or try out various software, applications, books or services and the like developed and provided by a third party in the cloud supermarket. The cloud supermarket system is combined with a cloud dispatching system to realize dynamic distribution and recovery of resources; a virtual disk dynamic expansion and sharing technology is adopted to realize high-efficient utilization of the resources; and module customization is supported, thus selection of the users of various operating systems can be realized. In the cloud supermarket system, the users can purchase resource services required by the users without taking care of specific processes and realization technologies of the resource services; and operators can provide or recycle various resources and interfaces in accordance with the demands of the users and formulate various billing modes so as to cater to various purchase demands in the cloud supermarket. Simply speaking, the cloud supermarket system is a huge supermarket which connects the users with the operators, and the supermarket contains a variety of cloud-related services.


Abstract Citizens' exit polls are performed by local voters to verify the official reported election results. Five citizens' exit polls were run in southeast Kansas during the Nov 8th 2016 election. These exit polls were designed specifically to verify computer generated vote counts and run solely by volunteer labor, all local citizens who were willing to put in the necessary hours on Election Day to conduct the poll and later, to count the results by hand. These exit polls were able to obtain high participation rates resulting in the ability to detect small yet statistically significant differences. All five polling stations surveyed show evidence of multiple statistical anomalies in both the pattern and size of the errors between the official results and exit poll results although biases were not uniformly oriented across sites. The small discrepancies found in the studied races were insufficient to alter the outcomes. Non-response bias and unintentional errors were evaluated as potential causes; those explanations were plausible in some but not all cases. These results show a pattern of discrepancies between the exit polls and computer counted results displaying consistent bias within sites. This would be an expected outcome of a deliberate manipulation of the computer results. While this data doesn't conclusively prove election interference and manipulation of votes counts, it should be taken seriously as a sign of such interference. Doubts about the accuracy of the reported results are appropriate unless other plausible explanations for the discrepancies can be found.


The work presented in this chapter delineates the longitudinal experience of deploying an urban computing system that enables citizens to share and interact with digital content about the urban environment and experiences of people with it. It is part of an emerging and novel aspect of urban computing that expands research beyond simple optimisations of city functions towards a social and cultural approach that seeks to orchestrate complex socio-technical ensembles. Offering Collective City Memory as a service to citizens and enabling them to interact with it via diverse novel interfaces has uncovered the implications for city life that the introduction of urban computing brings such as the redefinition of spatial and temporal proximity and the effects on the perception of city space, fostering of social interactions, contribution to shared resources and participation in collective efforts.


The clothing culture in Tunbao,Anshun,Guizhou,which is called "the living fossil"of Ming Dynasty,has changed greatly.This paper introduces the features of the female's "Fengyang dressing",the male's long gown,Chinese-style short jacket,the war shoes,and some other clothing like the back fun,baby's flower hat,etc.,and analyses the reasons that lead these changes.At last,it puts forward some suggestions to develop and protect the clothing culture in Tunbao.


To optimize the 0-1 linear programming,a method of penalty function is proposed.According to the features of the 0-1 linear programming optimal value,the penalty function is added with the target function and the 0-1 discrete model is changed into the continuous model which is nonlinear equally.The nonlinear model is solved by Fmincon function of Matlab.The results with example calculation and comparison with other algorithms show that this method is feasible and effective.This method is applied to the actual aircraft scheduling and the result is satisfying.


On Monday, A p r i l 17, Providence Col lege conferred an Honorary Doctorate of Religious Studies on the M o s t R e v e r e n d L o u i s E . Gel ineau, Bishop of Providence. A special open convocation was held in the Mult i -Purpose Room of the Col lege Union. T h e Providence C o l l e g e G l e e C l u b s a n g two choruses from Bach , following the i n v o c a t i o n by the C o l l e g e C h a p l a i n , Rev. P a u l J . V . Walsh, O.P. T h e V e r y Reverend Thomas R. Peterson, O. P . , president of the College extended the greetings.


Electrospray ionization (ESI) quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometry (QIT-MS) and collisionally activated dissociation (CAD) were used to evaluate the rare-earth binding properties of two hydrophobic carbamoylmethylphosphine oxide (CMPO) ligands, the normal bidentate variety, (t-BuC6H4)2P(O)CH2C(O)N(i-Bu)2 (A), a new potentially tridentate extractant, (t-BuC6H4)2P(O)CH[CH2C(O)N(i-Bu)2]C(O)N(i-Bu)2 (B), and tributyl phosphate. The mass spectral results obtained from analysis of 1% HNO3/methanol solution containing the ligands and dissolved lanthanide salts reveal that the favorable stoichiometries of the ligand/metal/nitrate complexes are 2:1:2 for the bidentate ligand A, 1:1:2 for the tridentate ligand B, and 3:1:2 for the monodentate tributyl phosphate. These observed stoichiometries correlate with the number of available binding sites on each ligand as well as with potential steric effects. Energy-variable collisionally activated dissociation experiments showed that for the 2:1:2 complexes involving ligand A or B, as the ionic radius of the bound metal decreased, the removal of nitric acid required less energy and resulted in less extensive spontaneous solvent coordination. This experimental trend suggests that, as the ionic radius of the lanthanide ion decreases, a pair of the carbamoylmethylphosphine ligands is able to more completely solvate the bound metal ion thereby weakening the nitrate-metal interaction.


Abstract Several theorists have proposed that women prefer a more caring morality, one that is based on a high level of concern for interpersonal relationships and emotional sensitivity to the feelings of others. This study is an investigation of the prediction that (a) there are gender differences in a preference for a caring morality and (b) the differences exist across cultures. A scale was developed to empirically test these predictions. It was adapted from Interpersonal sensitivity scale that was derived from a factor analysis of the Bem Sex Role Inventory. The predictions were confirmed, with women in Korea, China, Thailand, and the United States preferring a more caring morality.


The paper presents a new position measuring method by using the multi-rotational absolute encoder. The hardware interface circuit and the software design about the new method are also given.


Operation of transport systems is connected with ecological safety. Therefore designing and calculation of tunnels is the task of current importance. In the work the design procedure of tunnels in view of the nonlinear diagram of deformation of a material is developed. Basic equations are received and the example of calculation is submitted.


A collection of high resolution solid-state 13 C NMR spectra was recorded in a standard way employing cross polarization (CP), magic angle spinning (MAS), and high power proton decoupling. The collection will be useful for reference purposes in case of unknown or partly unknown samples such as polymer blends, block copolymers, or polymeric latexes. The collection is available via internet at http:// www.mpip-mainz.mpg.de/documents/aksp/spektrensammlung.


This study reports the role of chromium as a double-edged sword in the preparation of refractory materials from ferronickel slag with the addition of sintered magnesia based on the thermodynamic analysis and experimental exploration of the phase transformation of ferronickel slag during the sintering process. The results of thermodynamic calculation, X-ray diffraction, and electron probe microanalysis revealed that in the presence of sintered magnesia (20 wt %) and Cr2O3 (0–6 wt %), forsterite, donathite (instead of magnesium chromate spinel generated without addition of Cr2O3), magnesium aluminate spinel, and enstatite were formed. The forsterite and spinel phases contributed to high refractoriness of the prepared material by sintering. However, with excessive addition of Cr2O3 (>6 wt %), the quantity of enstatite increased obviously, which would lower the refractoriness of refractory material. For this reason, the addition of chromium or its content in the slag should be carefully controlled to fully ex...


ABSTRACT The perfonnance of a pressure transmission system containing a microbend fiber-optic pressure transducer is re-ported. The pressure transducer design is described along with the configuration for its installalion in a coal liquefac-tion reactor operating at a pressure of 3000 psi and temperatures up to 840°F. The modulated light intensity signalproportional to pressure is transmitted to the remote optoelectronic signal conditioner 250 feet from the reactor. Theresults of.a one-month field test include the calibration, measured pressure versus time, thennal and pressure cyclingdata, and failure mode. 1. INTRODUCTION Numerous applications exist for measuring pressure in high-temperature environments. These applications in-dude pipeline pressure in petrochemical refineries, gas path pressure in aircraft engines, and main steam line pressurein tuthine generators. Traditional diaphragm type pressure transducers are not suited for these high-temperature ap-plications for several reasons.


Localized scleroderma, also known as morphea, comprises a group of conditions that involve essentially the skin and subcutaneous tissues. They have various features and range from very small plaques to extensive fibrotic lesions that may cause significant functional and cosmetic deformity. In this case discussion, we report the case of a young girl with an uncommon association of three autoimmune diseases, including well-documented generalized morphea with celiac disease and hearing loss emphasizing the spectrum of autoimmunity.


To establish a useful and convenient bioassay for evaluating immunotoxicological effects of environmental chemicals, lymphocyte mitogenesis tests of about 255 chemicals and environmental water were performed. We determined the growth-inhibitory effect of the environmental chemicals on the mouse splenic lymphocyte mitogenesis using lipopolysaccharide and concanavalin A as the specific mitogen for B cells and T cells, and evaluated toxicity on humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity, respectively. The DNA content of grown cells was determined by the novel ethidium bromide-fluorophotometry method, with 96-well microplates. Of the 255 chemicals tested, 173 chemicals showed inhibitory effects on the mitogenesis. The data were classified into four typical inhibition patterns from the dose-response curves. The chemicals were categorized into six groups in the respect of inhibition selectivity between B cell mitogenesis and T cell mitogenesis. Some chemicals, such as metallic compounds, showed nonspecific effects for B cell and T cell-mitogenesis, which was attributed to the cytotoxicity. The previous reports relating to immunotoxicity found about 123 chemicals; 78 chemicals (63.4%) were positive and one chemical (0.8%) was negative for both experimental results and reported results. In total, the concordance between experimental results and reported results is 64.2%. In the application of river water concentrates for the lymphocyte mitogenesis test, some of the samples inhibited both B cell and T cell mitogenesis at the tested volume of 7.2 ml. These results indicated that the lymphocyte mitogenesis test is applicable in estimating immunotoxicity of pollutants in environmental water as well as authentic environmental chemicals.


Consider a triangle with its nine-point circle tangent to the incircle and excircles at the Feuerbach point. We show that the four circles each through the circumcenter, nine-point, and Feuerbach point contain the nine-point center of the intouch triangle or the corresponding extouch triangle. Furthermore, the lines joining these Feuerbach points to the corresponding nine-point centers are concurrent on the nine-point circle of the given triangle.


As ambulatory surgery has gained great acceptance for many surgical procedures, the papers about day surgery are read with great interest by the surgeons. The paper, recently published in Acta Chirurgica Belgica, on day repair of incisional hernias by DONATI et al. was really interesting (1). As a newly established specific hernia centre, we would like to share our early experience in this field. Nine patients underwent incisional hernia repair under local anaesthesia in our institution since September 2006. There were four male and five female patients with a mean age of 62.5 (range : 45-76). Five patients had comorbidity (4 cardio-vasculary and 1 asthma). There were three trocar site hernias, two sub-xiphoid post-by-pass hernias, two subcostal incisional hernias and two midline incisional hernias. All the hernias were reducible and two of them recurrent. Like those in our small series, all the hernias in Donati's series were reducible. However we do not consider an irreducible hernia as a contraindication for repair under local anaesthesia. Irreducible hernia sac may contain only omentum and the repair can be done after reducing it. It is possible to discriminate bowel and omentum stuck within the sac and preoperative ultrasound will also very useful to find it out. Ultrasound also can show if there are any other defects besides the palpable ones throughout the previous incision. If there are multiple defects in considerable distance from the palpable one the final decision of repair under local or general anaesthesia should be reconsidered. Local anaesthesia was performed by the surgeon using 0,5% bupivacaine (50 mg) and 2% lidocaine (120340 mg). Intravenous sedation was added in all cases with 0.025-0.06 miligram/kg midazolam and 0.091.5 microgram/kg fentanyl. Two patients needed 0.03 mg/kg propofol. A single dose prophylaxis was set with 1 gr of intravenous cefazoline. Defect sizes ranged 2-10 cm with an average of 4.5 cm. Three patients had double defects on the previous incision. All the defects were closed with polypropylene sutures. Mesh type was standard polypropylene in seven cases and light-weight polypropylene in two. Meshes were placed onlay in eight cases, while one patient was treated with double inlay + onlay meshes. The mean duration of the operation was 82 minutes (60-120 min). All the patients could receive both liquid and solid foods within an average time of 58 minutes (18-90 min). The mean interval between the end of the operation and discharge was 113 minutes (80-195 min). No re-admission was recorded. Seroma formation was observed in two cases (standard mesh used). This is very similar to DONATI et al.'s seroma rate. Indeed, mesh use for incisional hernia has reduced the recurrence rate but increased the seroma formation (2,3). A 30% seroma rate may be expected after prosthetic repair of incisional hernias with standard polypropylene mesh, and lightweight meshes may seem to help in solving this annoying problem (4). We used light-weight meshes in last two cases with no seroma formation. DONATI et al. reported no recurrences after repair under local anaesthesia. We also recorded no early recurrences. However, based upon the Danish Hernia Database, KEHLET and BAY-NIELSEN reported that the use of local anaesthesia was resulted in a higher recurrence rate compared with general or regional anaesthesia after repair of a direct but not an indirect hernia (5). This may be related to lack of technical excellence for local anaesthesia. It obvious that if the patient feels uncomfortable during the operation due to an inefficient local anaesthesia application the surgeon will experience difficulty and can not perform an ideal repair. In fact, local anaesthesia is not the rule for day case ambulatory surgery (6). It is truly possible for an otherwise healthy patient to have general anaesthesia and be discharged on the same day. On the other hand, some patients can not be return to home after any surgical intervention under local anaesthesia. It was stated that the choice of the anaesthetic technique appears to play a minor role in recovery from anaesthesia or in the occurrence of minor postoperative complications or home discharge, except for the use of total intravenous anaesthesia for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (7). Besides local anaesthesia, regional anaesthesia methods seem to be good alternatives theoretically. However, there have been only two reports on the use Acta Chir Belg, 2008, 108, 484-485


We investigated the clinical factors associated with local recurrences in 24 patients with malignant bone tumors, who had undergone tumor resection with a wide surgical margin. Local recurrences occurred in 3 patients with osteosarcoma and one patient with Ewing's sarcoma.Recurrence was thought to be due to an inadequate surgical margin, and this was probably caused by the following: (1) Reduction of surgical margin after shrinkage of the tumor following preoperative adjuvant treatment, (2) usual wide surgical margin but skip metastases or tumor thrombi suggested by CT scan and MR imaging, and (3) needle biopsy scattering tumor cells into the surrounding soft tissue.


SUMMARY Obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS) is a disease characterised by upper airway obstruction during sleep, quite frequent in the general population, even if underestimated. Snoring, sleep apnoea and diurnal hypersomnia are common in these patients. Central obesity plays a key role: it reduces the size and changes the conformation of the upper airways, besides preventing lung expansion, with consequent reduction of lung volumes. Furthermore, obese people are also resistant to leptin, which physiologically stimulates ventilation; as a result, this causes scarce awakening during apnoea. OSAHS diagnosis is based on the combination of clinical parameters, such as apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI), medical history, physical examination and Mallampati score. The first objective reference method to identify OSAHS is polysomnography followed by sleep endoscopy. Therapy provides in the first instance reduction of body weight, followed by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which still remains the treatment of choice in most patients, mandibular advancement devices (MAD) and finally otolaryngology or maxillofacial surgery. Among surgical techniques, central is barbed reposition pharyngoplasty (BRP), used in the field of multilevel surgery.


Monolayer ledges on basal ice–vapor surfaces are analyzed. A large class of ledges is specified in terms of allowable kinks and jumps. Probabilities of jumps of each type considered are calculated for a variety of restricted ledges corresponding to the series of quasistable clusters available at fixed supersaturation. Mean ledge positions are estimated from the calculated probabilities.


Adoptive transfer of nuclear factor-κB–inactive macrophages to the glomerulus. Background Macrophages have been regarded as "blackguards" in the generation of glomerular injury. However, it is still unclear what kind of cellular machinery is responsible for their pathogenic actions. To explore this issue, this investigation aims at developing a novel strategy using adoptive transfer of "loss-of-function" macrophages to the glomerulus. As a prototypal investigation, this study examines a role for nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in effector actions of macrophages within the glomerular microenvironment. Methods NF-κB–inactive macrophages, NIKMAC NR , were created by transduction of NR8383 rat macrophages with retrovirus encoding a super-repressor mutant of IκBα, IκBαM. The effector functions of NIKMAC NR cells on resident cells were evaluated by coculture, cross-feeding, and in vivo macrophage transfer. Results Rat mesangial cells cocultured with control macrophages showed abundant expression of activation markers, including monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, stromelysin, and gelatinase B. In contrast, coculture with NIKMAC NR macrophages induced only modest gene expression. Similarly, culture medium conditioned by activated, control macrophages triggered mesangial cells and isolated glomeruli to express the activation markers, whereas the stimulatory effect was not observed in medium conditioned by NIKMAC NR macrophages. To evaluate effector actions of NIKMAC NR macrophages in the glomerulus, control macrophages and NIKMAC NR cells were transferred into normal rat glomeruli via renal artery injection. After the transfer of control macrophages, substantial induction of the activation marker stromelysin was observed in resident glomerular cells. This induction was dramatically diminished in the glomeruli transferred with NIKMAC NR macrophages. Conclusions Inactivation of NF-κB in macrophages effectively disrupted paracrine, stimulatory loops from macrophages to resident glomerular cells. A combination of "loss-of-function" strategies with the technique for adoptive cell transfer is thus useful to explore pathophysiologic roles for certain machinery of macrophages within the glomerulus.


We introduce a novel data-driven method to mitigate the risk of cascading failures in delayed discrete-time Linear Time-Invariant (LTI) systems. Our approach involves formulating a distributionally robust finite-horizon optimal control problem, where the objective is to minimize a given performance function while satisfying a set of distributionally chances constraints on cascading failures, which accounts for the impact of a known sequence of failures that can be characterized using nested sets. The optimal control problem becomes challenging as the risk of cascading failures and input time-delay poses limitations on the set of feasible control inputs. However, by solving the convex formulation of the distributionally robust model predictive control (DRMPC) problem, the proposed approach is able to keep the system from cascading failures while maintaining the system's performance with delayed control input, which has important implications for designing and operating complex engineering systems, where cascading failures can severely affect system performance, safety, and reliability.


Cerebrospinal f luid (CSF) proteomic analysis has revealed a CSF profile that can differentiate between neurologic post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (nPTLS), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and healthy controls. Recent studies utilizing new techniques for proteomic analysis have allowed insight into the pathogenesis of these two mysterious conditions and may lead to improvements in their diagnosis and treatment in the future. Chronic fatigue syndrome and nPTLS are two conditions in which patients often report common symptoms, including fatigue and cognitive dysfunction. Owing to their shared symptom ology, methods to diagnose the two syndromes are needed. Both conditions have an unexplained pathology, and new insights into pathogenesis and potential treatments are needed. The recent study, published in PLoS One, used new techniques in their analysis, which the authors noted were enabled by "advances in sample preparation, separations and MS platform capabilities", to try and reveal more about which proteins were unique to each condition.


Electromagnetic waves propagate in the Schwarzschild spacetime like in a nonuniform medium with a varying refraction index. A fraction of the radiation scatters off the curvature of the geometry. The energy of the backscattered part of an initially outgoing pulse of electromagnetic radiation can be estimated, in the case of dipole radiation, by a compact formula depending on the initial energy, the Schwarzschild radius and the pulse location. The magnitude of the backscattered energy depends on the frequency spectrum of the initial configuration. This effect becomes negligible in the short wave limit, but it can be significant in the long wave regime. Similar results hold for the massless scalar fields and are expected to hold also for weak gravitational waves.