Music information extraction has been a popular research direction in artificial intelligence technology, which can identify the digital information of the music in the audio, including the passage, timbre, and track of the music, based on the audio files uploaded by users. This paper applies the recognition of deep learning framework to music recognition and music information extraction. Based on this deep learning framework, a music recognition and interactive generation system based on artificial intelligence technology is designed and implemented using server-side and client-side development techniques. This system can recognize and generate audio project files uploaded by users, and at the same time, users can use the interactive music generation system to edit and create this audio project file, and finally generate audio files based on the modified audio project. This overall system, on the one hand, lowers the threshold for users to create music, and on the other hand, provides great convenience for music creators.


With the development of genomics and modern molecular biology theory and technology and new equipment R D,the detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae is targeting at rapid,accurate,sensitive and specific direction,in particular, PCR、ELISA and other modern molecular biology techniques in conjunction and the quality and efficeincy of Neisseria gonorrhoeae by real-time PCR after further improvement has been greatly enhanced.


Pipe breakage is one of the most frequent types of failure of water networks that often causes community disruptions ranging from temporary interruptions in services to extended loss of businesses and relocation of residents. Pipe leaks or bursts can lead to changes in pressure heads and flow rates, however, these characteristics also rely on other factors, such as topography, demographics, and pipe properties. Thus no general model can e↵ectively monitor the behavior of the entire pipeline network. In this paper, we present a novel leakage detection platform to identify the broken pipelines in the shortest possible time. The platform is a Cyber-Physical-Human System (CPHS), integrating the hydraulic model where the expected behavior is simulated by the backend computation system, with the real-time sensing that collects data through deployed sensors. When a discrepancy is observed, the platform triggers the hydraulic model updated to iterate to a solution that is the best match with the observations, which then may involve human to partially monitor and intervene the platform in order to minimize the disruption to the system. The objectives include creating an e cient network profile for a given water network via o✏ine study and locating the broken pipeline via online profile query and computations, that is, creating a large library of di↵erent system performances based on a variety of leak or break scenarios. The system is evaluated by simulating the behavior of water networks using hydraulic model EPANET combined with communications and control. Permission to make digital or hard copies of all or part of this work for personal or classroom use is granted without fee provided that copies are not made or distributed for profit or commercial advantage and that copies bear this notice and the full citation on the first page. To copy otherwise, to republish, to post on servers or to redistribute to lists, requires prior specific permission and/or a fee. Copyright 200X ACM X-XXXXX-XX-X/XX/XX ...$5.00.


Dear Editor, The end of 2020 is bringing new hope with multiple COVID-19 vaccines demonstrated to be safe and effective in clinical trials. Vaccination around the world has now started with the frontrunners gaining approval in few countries. The development of these vaccines has been at an unprecedented pace, with accelerated timelines and an unconventional vaccine development pathway. In a rush to get there first, cutting a few corners may help, but it necessitates enhanced vigilance in the post marketing phase. Little do we realize, the platform for COVID-19 vaccine frontrunners is based on gene therapy. The COVID-19 vaccine from Moderna is mRNA based, Pfizer uses a lipid nanoparticle enclosure for the mRNA and Oxford relies on a chimpanzee adenoviral vector, nevertheless all contain sequences that encode the viral spike protein. So essentially this is going to be the first-time gene therapy is delivered to the masses on a global scale. Long-term effects of older generation vaccines are still a matter of research for dermatologists. Thus, long term effects of gene therapy-based vaccines are practically unknown. Published studies of COVID-19 vaccines have shown high reactogenicity with fever, headache, and fatigue being more common than in other vaccines. This is a reflection of the inherent inflammatory nature of these vaccines, even though demonstrated as safe in interim results of trials conducted. Adenoviral vectors are known to induce unwanted responses from the innate immune system. Administered adenoviral vectors get trapped in the liver and spleen by the resident macrophages and induce inflammation through Toll like receptor (TLR) 2 and 9 dependent expression of cytokines. These adenoviral vectors are also known to stimulate CD4+ Th1 and humoral immune responses in humans. mRNA based vaccines also have inherent inflammatory activity leading to activation of multiple pathways of RNA induced inflammation through TLR 3,7,8. Lipid nanoparticles also have shown inherent immunostimulatory activity even when given without their mRNA content. Older generation vaccines with lower reactogenicity are still being implicated in causing flare of dermatological diseases like psoriasis. Such observations lead to concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccines causing flares in patients of lupus and other dermatological diseases. Dermatologists worldwide could be perplexed facing unexplained flares of previously stable patients with inflammatory and autoimmune diseases on introduction of gene therapy based vaccines for COVID-19. Even though there is currently no evidence for it, it needs careful observation and due deliberation. The leading vaccines have shown to produce a predominant Th1 type response producing high levels of TNFa, IFNg, and IL2. This would mean enhanced vigilance for flares in diseases like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, pemphigus vulgaris, lichen planus, vitiligo, acne vulgaris, neutrophilic dermatosis, and connective tissue diseases that have a proven Th1 role in their pathogenesis. It may likewise be prudent on part of practicing dermatologists to control disease activity prior to COVID-19 vaccination by stepping up therapy. The role of biologics targeting the pathways of inflammation which are stimulated in case of vaccine induced flares, may similarly be beneficial in treatment of such patients. Whatever the case may be, 2021 is going to be another challenging year for dermatology practice.


A concise, flexible, and efficient total synthesis of the cytotoxic resin glycosides ipomoeassin B (1) and ipomoeassin E (2) is reported which features the advantages of a novel protecting group strategy employing (Z)-3-dimethyl(phenyl)silyl-2-propenoic acid as cinnamic acid surrogate. The use of this readily available compound allowed the macrocycle of the glycolipids to be formed by ring closing olefin metathesis (RCM) with the aid of the second generation Grubbs carbene complex 12. The resulting E/Z mixture could be selectively hydrogenated using Wilkinson's catalyst [RhCl(PPh3)3] without affecting the unsaturated esters in the periphery of the compound, before the C-silyl group was cleaved off with TASF [tris(dimethylamino)sulfonium difluorotrimethylsilicate] under notably mild conditions to release the required cinnamate moiety. Other key steps of the synthesis route comprise the formation of the disaccharide linkage by the trichloroacetimidate method, the formation of the chiral acid segment 19 via ...


When the heart beats, individual cardiac cells are initially induced to a lower voltage from their resting potential. Under normal pacing conditions, the time duration required for a cardiac cell to recover to the resting voltage is constant for subsequent evenly spaced stimuli. By contrast, an irregular response termed alternans describes recovery periods that alternate between two xed values under constant pacing frequency. It is believed that alternans may be a precursor to ventricular brillation, an arrhythmia causing sudden cardiac death. Several authors have studied the use of feedback to suppress alternans [2]. Indeed, this has been successfully implemented in small pieces of paced in vitro bullfrog heart [2]. In this paper we study theoretically a variant of such control problems. A full description of the electrical response of the heart to stimulation is di cult, involving a very sti , many-variable coupled system of time-dependent PDE (of reaction-di usion type) in an exceedingly complicated 3D geometry. If the spatial dependence in the problem is suppressed (which is approximately valid for small pieces of in vitro heart), the description reduces to a system of ODE, often called an ionic model since what is being described is the transport of ions across the cell membrane. The most important variable in this system (and the most accessible experimentally) is the transmembrane potential. Typical responses of this variable to a periodic sequence of stimuli are shown in Figure 1. This gure illustrates the property of cardiac tissue that is called excitability : i.e., a small stimulus leads to a raised voltage for an extended period of time, far longer than the duration of the stimulus itself, after which the voltage returns to its resting value. Such a time course of the voltage is called an action potential. Figure 1a shows a steady situation in which the same response


The article examines the implicit technique to evade an answer by the shift of the communicative dominants which is implemented in the manipulations with the meaning on intentionally false interpretation of a statement. The authors discovered the types of semantic shifts, identified the correlations of cognitive and pragmatic meaning of the linguistic units in a remark-stimulus and a remark-response, analyzed the linguistic means and revealed the reasons for which the communicants resort to such manipulations.


This fourth volume, and second to appear in the series, covers the years 1790-1880 and explores romantic and Victorian receptions of the classics. Noting the changing fortunes of particular classical authors and the influence of developments in archaeology, aesthetics and education, it traces the interplay between classical and nineteenth-century perceptions of gender, class, religion, and the politics of republic and empire in chapters engaging with many of the major writers of this period.


Objective: To explore the role of Australian nurses in the provision of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) health services. Design: A questionnaire survey. Setting: Hospitals in Australia and the South West of the United Kingdom (UK). Subjects: Inflammatory bowel disease nurses. Main outcome measure: The diversity of IBD services. Results: Twelve Australian and 19 UK nurses returned completed questionnaires (approximately 40% response rate). Most participants were registered nurses, aged between 25 and 55 years. More UK participants were IBD specialist nurses (84% vs 42%; p = 0.019) and the majority of Australian nurses being clinical trial coordinators. The UK nurses had more interest in IBD (100% vs 75%; p = 0.049) and spent more time in IBD nursing (63% vs 25%; p = 0.043). Nurses in the UK provided more IBD services and tended to perceive a higher level of support from management (52% vs 25%; p = 0.12). Fewer IBD services were provided by Australian nurses despite their equivalent educational attainments, years of IBD experience and level of autonomous practice. Australian nurses identified the lack of funding, time and management support as barrier to service development. Australian nurses were less likely to be employed as dedicated IBD nurses and were required to provide nursing services to a wider clientele. Conclusion: In this study Australian IBD nurses had less specialised roles, attracted less funding and management support. Australian nurses were more focussed on clinical trial coordination and provided for a wider clientele.


Two Triticum monococcum accessions were found to be highly resistant to the Russian wheat aphid. An attempt was made to transfer the resistance to common wheat through direct hybridization or by using bridge species. In each of the four crossing strategies tried, a gradual loss of resistance occurred as hybrids with higher ploidy levels were obtained. It appeared that the level of resistance observed was directly proportional to the ratio of the Triticum monococcum genome relative to other genomes. This would indicate suppression of the resistance gene(s) by the added genomes or dilution of its product(s) by those of homoeoloci. The degree of protection afforded by the gene(s) at the hexaploid level may prove to be small. Plants suspected to be homozygous for the resistance gene(s) were identified; however, further backcrossing to common wheat will be required to improve their agronomic types and meiotic regularities.


In January 2023, an outbreak of Murray Valley Encephalitits (MVE) was reported on January 16, 2023.  Cases have subsequently been detected in Victoria (VIC)1, Northern Territory (NT)4, New South Wales (NSW)5, and Western Australia (WA), Australia. with 9 confirmed cases and 3 deaths as of April 6, 2023. This marks the first human case of MVE in Victoria since the last outbreak in 1974 and the first ever reported cases in NSW. Significant weather patterns throughout 2022 are thought to have contributed to the resurgance of MVEV. People of all ages are affected by MVE and those frequenting inland riverine regions, extending up towards the Murray River may be at increased risk of infection. This watching brief serves to inform on the increased transmission of MVE across Australia in 2023.


The technique of strengthening or repairing reinforced concrete (RC) structures with externally bonded steel plates or composite sheets has been successfully applied in civil engineering. The RC structure is often strengthened in flexure. This work studies the effect of the shear strengthening of RC beams on the stress distribution, initial cracks, crack propagation, and ultimate strength. Five types of beams with different strengthening carbon-fiber–reinforced plastic sheets are used. The experimental results show that it is not necessary to strengthen the entire concrete beam surface. The general and regional behaviors of concrete beams with bonded carbon-fiber–reinforced plastic sheets are studied with the help of strain gauges. The appearance of the first cracks and the crack propagation in the structure up to the failure is monitored and discussed for five different strengthened beams. In particular, for one of the strengthened RC beams, the failure mode and the failure mechanism are fully analyzed.


Glycophorins (GPs) in the red blood cell (RBC) membranes of carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) exhibit bacteriostatic activity against various gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. This antibacterial property is attributed to a sialo-oligosaccharide. For a structural analysis of this O-linked sialo-oligosaccharide, it is necessary to prepare and purify the oligosaccharide from carp GPs. To prepare sialo-oligosaccharides, RBC membrane proteins were solubilized, and anion exchange column chromatography was performed to obtain the GPs. The GP yield from carp RBC membranes was ca.100% as total sialic acid. Then, released oligosaccharides were obtained from GP preparation by β-elimination. Second, the resulting oligosaccharide fraction was separated into two sialo-oligosaccharide components (P-1 and P-2) using the same anion exchange column. The oligosaccharide preparations that contained high amounts of NaCl were desalted with an activated charcoal column combined with ammonium bicarbonate in acetonitrile as an eluent. Using NMR to analyse the structure of the antimicrobial P-1, we determined the alignment of each proton and C1 carbon. To determine the linkage sites, we performed GC-MS using the permethylated P-1. Lastly, we determined that the structure of P-1 was NeuGcα2→6 (Fucα1→4) (Glcα1→3) Galβ1→4GalNAc-ol.


This thesis is about synthesizing polyurethane (PU) solution. The purpose of conducting this research are to prepare a polymer nanofibers using electrospinning technique. Electrospinning is the technique of nanofabrication of polymer nanofibers. The synthesization of the solution is dissolved in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) with 12 wt.% and the solutions is mixed using magnetic stirrer. After that, the polyurethane nanofibers was obtained by using electrospinning machine with a voltage of 30kV, a flow range of 1.00 ml/h and working distance of 8 cm. The results demonstrated that the SEM images is more clearer as the magnification increases. Attenuated total reflection – fourier transform infrares (ATR-FTIR) shows that the PU electrospun has maintained it's molecular structure during the electrospinning process. The spinnable parameters are very important in this research to ensure that the polyurethane can be coated properly on the X-ray film.


It is vital to look upon the data of Cyber Bullying cases and the age for which the accused is held responsible. Statistics reveals that criminal minded people who are on the borderline of the 'age' who could be charged under IPC for some blunt crimes are being treated liberally. Cyberbullying, also known as Internet bullying, is a form of criminal activity that falls under the broadcategory of cybercrime. Since there are different types of cyberbullying and abuse, it's crucial to know what counts as "cyberbullying." If we look at the dictionary meaning of a bully, we can see that it is described as "seek to hurt, threaten, or coerce someone perceived as vulnerable". Bullying is described as any individual or group of individuals who seeks to injure, coerce, intimidate, or threaten another.Such actions or action are most commonly seen on social media sites as well as in chat boxes and gaming websites. Cyberbullying occurs when an individual or group of people bullies or harasses another person using digital technology on the internet or in another digital sphere. This can include things like posting private photographs and videos without permission, creating fake accounts and spamming groups or individuals online, body shaming, making memes and videos of people, often celebrities, making mess ups or slips, and so on. According to a 2016 UNICEF survey, one in every three internet users worldwide is a child, while the latest 'India Internet Report 2019' indicates that two out of every 3internet users in India are between the ages of 12 and 29. As a result of their psychological nature, this community of internet users is often targeted by online bullies. The number of incidents of cyberbullying and abuse has increased as a result. Indian women and teenagers became the victim of Cyberbullying and cases increased by 36% in just one year.


The primary objective of this study was to improve the accuracy of socioeconomic impact assessments by providing an improved methodology for predicting the number of inmigrating workers and their residential location patterns at future nuclear power plant construction projects. Procedures for estimating several other variables which have important implications with respect to socioeconomic impact assessment (i.e., relocation of dependents, intention to remain in the area, type of housing selected, marital status, and average family size) were also developed. The analysis was based on worker survey data from 28 surveys which were conducted at 13 nuclear power plant construction sites. These survey data were examined to identify patterns of variation in variables of interest across sites as well as across various worker groups. In addition, considerable secondary data reflecting various regional and project characteristics were gathered for each site. These data were used to estimate the effects of factors underlying the observed variation in craft-specific migrant proportions and the residential location patterns of inmigrating workers across sites and surveys. The results of these analyses were then used as a basis for the specification of the forecasting procedures.


The contribution of woody stems to the aboveground net primary production (NPP) of several species of tundra shrubs was documented at four sites in northern and central Alaska. To measure stem secondary growth, a new method was developed based on the ability to measure the changes in mass per unit length of stem segments of known age. Net accumulation of N and P in woody stems was also estimated, from additional measurements of changes in element concentration with stem age. Results showed that stem secondary growth was an important component of NPP in all species and sites, ranging from 13 to 49% of total aboveground NPP for individual species. The most productive species and sites had the highest proportions of NPP accounted for by secondary growth. Accumulation of N and P in woody stems occurred at slower rates, presumably due to internal reuse of these elements, but still accounted for 5-19% of the annual net aboveground N accumulation and 6-24% of the P accumulation. One implication of these results is a faster rate of N and P turnover in the vegetation than previously believed, and a greater annual nutrient demand. The relative con- tribution of each age class of stem segments to the total woody biomass was due to an interaction between the number of stem segments surviving to a given age and the annual percentage increase in mass per unit length. Older stem segments also tended to be longer than younger segments.


Contents: The Age of Atlantic Revolutions: Thomas Jefferson Views Napoleon - John Daly Burk: A Study in Revolutionary Moods. Toward a new interpretation of the French Revolution - A critique of the Marxist interpretation. A reexamination of Robespierre's life.


This paper addresses the problem of distributed scheduling for the WiMAX mesh network. A mesh with multiple base stations increases significantly the network capacity but requires distributed scheduling for its operation. A scheduling algorithm with initial allocation based on finite fields and traffic dependent conflict resolution is proposed. Its performance is evaluated and compared with traffic dependent scheduling not using finite fields


The evaluation of bioclimatic viticulture indices (BVIs) zones, similar to any other crop, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the spatial variability of climate data. This study focuses on assessing the suitability of BVIs in the Jabal Al Arab region, a significant viticulture area in the Eastern Mediterranean. The aim is to analyze four temperature-based bioclimatic indices and the hydrothermal coefficient (HTC) to map their patterns and spatial variation across the region under climate change scenarios. Daily temperature data from 15 meteorological stations and 57 rain gauges spanning 1984–2014 were utilized, along with downscaled future scenarios (the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) based on the second generation Canadian Earth System Model (CanESM2)) for 2016–2100. Additionally, statistical analysis and hybrid interpolation (regression-kriging) were employed to accurately map the BVIs throughout the region. The results reveal substantial spatial variability in Jabal Al Arab's climate, with heat accumulation and the hydrothermal index during the growing season significantly influenced by elevation and distance to the seacoast. Additionally, the viticulture zones vary based on the specific index used and the projected future climate scenarios compared to the current climate. Climate change projections indicate a trend toward warmer conditions in the future. Under the RCP scenarios, the region can be categorized into up to three bioclimatic classes for certain indices, in contrast to the current climate with six classes. These findings offer valuable insights into viticulture suitability within each climatic region and facilitate the identification of homogeneous zones. By employing consistent bioclimatic indices and advanced hybrid interpolation techniques, this study enables meaningful comparisons of Jabal Al Arab with other viticulture regions worldwide. Such information is crucial for selecting suitable grapevine varieties and assessing the potential for grape production in the future.


The dielectric loss factor is a vital index for evaluating the insulation property of transformer oil. It has a relatively high sensitivity to the deterioration of oil and the degree of pollution. Ultrasound detection technology obtains information by identifying changes in the characteristic parameters of ultrasound in a medium. Polar impurities could be identified through the characteristics of attenuation by ultrasound. The dielectric loss factor of transformer oil could be determined by the nondestructive ultrasound testing technology. In this paper, the ultrasonic reflection detection method and ultrasonic transmission detection method are used to detect transformer oil, and 242 dimensional multi-frequency ultrasonic data set is obtained. WOA-Elman detection model is established in Matlab environment, with ultrasonic data set as input and dielectric loss factor as output for training and prediction. Among 175 groups of transformer oil samples, 160 groups are used for model training, and 15 groups are used for prediction. The results show that the prediction accuracy of transformer oil dielectric loss model based on WOA Elman is 93.2%, which proves that multi-frequency ultrasonic detection combined with the artificial intelligence model can effectively detect transformer oil dielectric loss.


Recently,the ground magnetic measuring precision and reading speed get a high improve.For the use of cesium optical-pumping magnetometer and Overhauser magnetometer,makes the readings interval can achieve 0.1 seconds.With a Carrier phase GPS,the Real-time positioning precision reaches 10-1m.It makes the ground magnetic measuring to be Near-Continuous.Based on the test of Qunjisayi copper mine in the West Tianshan,this paper shows that the near-continuous method gets more information of geomagnetic field.And it gets more abilities of finding abnormal and higher precision of the interpretation.With high social benefits and actual application value,it is good for generalization.


In case of Indoor Gymnasium, although its main purpose was sporting activity in the past, in recent days there are many cases that used as the multipurpose space where various public-performances are available such as resident's leisure activity, lecture and assembly activity, drama and concert. Accordingly, in order to maximum utilize the function of such Indoor Gymnasium, it is simultaneously required the Acoustic Performance with regard to the Definition of Voice and Music. However, in case of the gymnastic facility, since it has been designed as the higher ceiling-height for the sake of its characteristics, it forms a focus of tone and also the sound is concentrating to the specific part, and due to its large volume and the finishing material which has a strong reflexibility, and as the vibration of sound is too loud, it becomes to generate the acoustic defect such as many reverberations. On such viewpoint, based on the improvement device for the optimized architectural acoustic design presented by the preceded study, this Study has attempted to inquire into the Acoustic Satisfaction-Degree and its Response about the subject space, by conducting an Auralizational Experiment where possible to experience directly the Sound Field from the planning stage to its completion. As result of the investigation, at "After Improvement" comparing with "Before Improvement", the purpose of the sports facility together with its function as a multipurpose space with possibility of various public performances have been evaluated as suitable. It is considering that such material would be utilized as the fundamental material at the planning and designing stage of the similar sports facility hereafter, and it could be utilized as the useful material for the reduction effect of construction cost and enables us to improve the Acoustic Performance.


Suction traps were operated for 1 year in 2 adjacent habitats and the physiological constitution of the mosquito population was determined. Populations of Cs. melanura, C. nigripalpus, Ae. vexans , and An. crucians showed the largest proportion of females in egg stage I from February through June (except during May) with a roughly complementary distribution for females in stage II. Stage III females of all species had peaks in August, December, and June. These peaks were found to consist primarily of unfed females as only 10-15% of nulliparous and 1-2% of parous contained blood. Stage IV were rare and stage V showed little seasonal pattern. Within each egg stage, all 4 species had similar seasonal patterns. Blooded and gravid females were found to have similar behavior; although Cs. melanura and C. nigripalpus are woodland species, these females were proportionately more abundant in collections from the field, whereas in field species, viz., Ae. vexans and An. crucians , greater proportions occurred in the wooded swamp. Evidence is presented to show that the behavior of blooded females is dissimilar from unblooded females in the same egg stage and that females with enlarged abdomens (blooded and gravid) tend to have similar responses. In C. nigripalpus parous rates at dawn were 5% greater than in the evening. Parous rates did not differ between populations from the swamp and the field. Parous rates were lowest in stage I, higher in stage II, and highest in stage III females (stages IV and V were not examined). There was no relationship between the proportion in any 1 egg stage during the year and the percent of that stage parous. Thus, despite differences between species in flight behavior, host utilization, and breeding areas, the proportion of the population in any one stage of egg development, or the percent parous, or the percent of stage III females expressing partial autogeny, was highly synchronized during the year. The factors responsible for physiological synchrony between species were not determined.


: The algorithms for closures and keys in relation schemas with functional dependencies are well-known in theory of relational databases. However, the problems of closures and keys in relation schemas with positive Boolean dependencies are still opened. This paper proposes a solution to these problems. The results are presented by unification method which is a new technique to construct the basic algorithms for logic dependencies in data and knowledge bases.


There is a keen interest to develop research systems and increase research output in the 14 Pacific Island Forum Countries (PIFC) to support development of policies and practice based on locally relevant research evidence.


We propose and experimentally demonstrate an optical constant envelope OFDM system based on electrical phase modulation. We transmit 1.4 Gbps data onto 16-QAM symbols in 500 MHz bandwidth. Our system shows good tolerance to the optical modulator intermodulation effects.


This project consisted of merging volcanic cloud data from initial studies from TOMS and AVHRR sensors. Because of the different data acquisition platforms and processing algorithms and formats, the combination of the two data required special consideration. Once the registration technique was perfected, several eruptions with data from both sensors were studied. The conclusion showed that, from the initial work, the positions of the volcanic clouds as detected by the two sensors are very similar. Because the AVHRR algorithm is now capable of retrieving masses of ash and sulfate aerosol, the capability of comparing data from the two sensors now allows changes in SO2, H2SO4, and silicated ash in drifting clouds to be described. The results of this study culminated in several presentations, and a master's thesis, which in turn was converted into a paper submitted to the Journal of Geophysical Research. Abstracts of two presentations are attached.


Objective To understand the incurrence, CT diagnosis, classification of brain atrophy and the relationship with blood pressure, sugar and lipoids in the middle-old aged knowledge popular brain atrophytion. To provide evidences for clinical diagnosis.Methods To Analyze the character of 128 cases of brain atrophy patients found by CT in 767 middle-old aged knowledge population during health scans, retrospectively. Compare every type of brain atrophy by eye-dependent measure of experienced radiologists and data-dependent measure, classifiedly analyze the relationship with blood pressure, sugar and lipoids.Results Of the 128 cases of brain atrophy diagnosed by eye-dependent measure,110 cases were diagnosed by data-dependent measure, correspondence rate was 88.61%. The incurrence of brain atrophy increased along with age; the incurrence in male was more than female. Blood pressure and age were the main factors of this disease. Statistically there was significant difference,P0.05.Conclusion The present study suggested that prevention and treatment of hypertension are effective methods in preventing brain atrophy and Aizheimer Eye-dependent measure in CT diagnosis is a reliable method.


Isoamericanol A, isoamericanin A and (±)-3-methoxybenzodioxane-4,9,9'-triol neolignan are three neolignans isolated from phytocaccaceae and Juniperns chinesis'r: and were assigned structure 7', 8' and 9 respectively through spectral studies. In the literature it is reported that natural products containing the 1,4-benzodioxane ring have cytotoxic and hepatoprotective' and other biological activity associated with the 1,4-benzodioxane group," but no syntheses of these particular natural products have been reported.


Aims. Spatial distribution and growth of dust in a clumpy protoplanetary disk subject to vigorous gravitational instability and frag- mentation is studied numerically with sub-au resolution using the FEOSAD code. Methods. Hydrodynamics equations describing the evolution of self-gravitating and viscous protoplanetary disks in the thin-disk limit were modified to include a dust component consisting of two parts: sub-micron-sized dust and grown dust with a variable maximum radius. The conversion of small to grown dust, dust growth, friction of dust with gas, and dust self-gravity were also considered. Results. We found that the disk appearance is notably time-variable with spiral arms, dusty rings, and clumps, constantly forming, evolving, and decaying. As a consequence, the total dust-to-gas mass ratio is highly non-homogeneous throughout the disk extent, showing order-of-magnitude local deviations from the canonical 1:100 value. Gravitationally bound clumps formed through gravitational fragmentation have a velocity pattern that deviates notably from the Keplerian rotation. Small dust is efficiently converted into grown dust in the clump interiors, reaching a maximum radius of several decimeters. Concurrently, grown dust drifts towards the clump center forming a massive compact central condensation (70–100 M ⊕ ). We argue that protoplanets may form in the interiors of inward-migrating clumps before they disperse through the action of tidal torques. We foresee the formation of protoplanets at orbital distances of several tens of au with initial masses of gas and dust in the protoplanetary seed in the (0.25–1.6) M Jup and (1.0–5.5) M ⊕ limits, respectively. The final masses of gas and dust in the protoplanets may however be much higher due to accretion from surrounding massive metal-rich disks/envelopes. Conclusions. Dusty rings formed through tidal dispersal of inward-migrating clumps may have a connection to ring-like structures found in youngest and massive protoplanetary disks. Numerical disk models with a dust component that can follow the evolution of gravitationally bound clumps through their collapse phase to the formation of protoplanets are needed to make firm conclusions on the characteristics of planets forming through gravitational fragmentation.


The utility model discloses scratching gloves with nails, which consist of scratching finger sleeves and gloves. Each scratching finger sleeve consists of scratching nails and an elastic hoop. Each pair of gloves is provided with ten scratching finger sleeves. Since the scratching nails are arranged at the upper end of each scratching finger sleeve and the elastic hoop is arranged at the lower end thereof, the scratching can be conveniently conducted when hairs are washed and the elastic hoop is to ensure no falling. Each glove consists of a palm sleeve, finger sleeves, a wrist strap and a clamping ring, the upper end of the palm sleeve is connected with five finger sleeves and the lower end thereof is connected with one wrist strap and one clamping ring. After the gloves are put on, the wrist straps are tied into the clamping rings and the gloves do not fall. The scratching finger sleeves are sheathed on each finger sleeve to form the scratching gloves with nails. The scratching gloves with nails are integrated with the functions of water prevention, freeze protection, pollution prevention and scratching.


The development of biomaterial surfaces that allowcell attachment for viability and growth is highly important inthe field of tissue engineering. The biomaterials are used in the development of structures to provide a supporting frameworkand also to provide a controlled spatial distribution of cellswhich could guide tissue formation. Designing scaffolds that canengineer tissue growth by tuning the geometry, mechanical properties or chemical properties of the material is of primary importance. Quantitative analysis of the mechanical characteristics of the scaffold material provides important information for controlling cell behavior and the processes involved in incorporating the cells into the scaffolds for directing cellular responses and tissue formation. This paper discusses themodeling processes and design parameters required for mechanical characterization of cell encapsulated 3D scaffolds.


Abstract. Ocean–sea-ice coupled models constrained by various observations provide different ice thickness estimates in the Antarctic. We evaluate
contemporary monthly ice thickness from four reanalyses in the Weddell Sea: the German contribution of the project Estimating the Circulation and Climate of
the Ocean Version 2 (GECCO2), the Southern Ocean State Estimate (SOSE), the Ensemble Kalman Filter system based on the Nucleus for European Modelling of the Ocean (NEMO-EnKF) and the Global Ice–Ocean Modeling and Assimilation System (GIOMAS). The evaluation is performed against
reference satellite and in situ observations from ICESat-1, Envisat, upward-looking sonars and visual ship-based sea-ice observations. Compared with
ICESat-1, NEMO-EnKF has the highest correlation coefficient (CC) of 0.54 and lowest root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.44 m. Compared with
in situ observations, SOSE has the highest CC of 0.77 and lowest RMSE of 0.72 m. All reanalyses underestimate ice thickness near the coast of
the western Weddell Sea with respect to ICESat-1 and in situ observations even though these observational estimates may be biased low. GECCO2 and
NEMO-EnKF reproduce the seasonal variation in first-year ice thickness reasonably well in the eastern Weddell Sea. In contrast, GIOMAS ice thickness
performs best in the central Weddell Sea, while SOSE ice thickness agrees most with the observations from the southern coast of the Weddell Sea. In
addition, only NEMO-EnKF can reproduce the seasonal evolution of the large-scale spatial distribution of ice thickness, characterized by the thick
ice shifting from the southwestern and western Weddell Sea in summer to the western and northwestern Weddell Sea in spring. We infer that the thick
ice distribution is correlated with its better simulation of northward ice motion in the western Weddell Sea. These results demonstrate the
possibilities and limitations of using current sea-ice reanalysis for understanding the recent variability of sea-ice volume in the Antarctic.


Many APTS user services use a digital base map or map database in applications that require spatial reasoning, data collection, and management. These include Automated Vehicle Location and Monitoring (AVL/M), trip itinerary planning, Automated Passenger Counters (APC), automated annunciators, demand-responsive scheduling and dispatch, rideshare matching, and more. This paper discusses the major issues related to choosing an appropriate map database, and developing standards for its use in an integrated APTS/transit/ITS environment. The first part of the paper describes the characteristics of a map database; its base map type, quality, accuracy, consistency, completeness, and database management considerations. The second part discusses issues related to systems integration and map database standards.


In this paper, we demonstrate a novel control strategy for the drive mode of a microgyroscope using ascending frequency drive (AFD) with an AGC-2DOF PID controller, which drives a resonator with a modulation signal not at the resonant frequency and senses the vibration signal at the resonant frequency, thus realizing the isolation between the actual mechanical response and electrical coupling signal. This approach holds the following three advantages: (1) it employs the AFD signal instead of the resonant frequency drive signal to excite the gyroscope in the drive direction, suppressing the electrical coupling from the drive electrode to the sense electrode; (2) it can reduce the noise at low frequency and resonant frequency by shifting flicker noise to the high-frequency part; (3) it can effectively improve the performance of the transient response of the closed-loop control with a 2-DOF (degree of freedom) PID controller compared with the conventional 1-DOF PID. The stability condition of the whole loop is investigated by utilizing the averaging and linearization method. The control approach is applied to drive a lateral tuning fork microgyroscope. Test results show good agreement with the theoretical and simulation results. The non-ideal electrical antiresonance peak is removed and the resonant peak height increases by approximately 10 dB over a 400 Hz span with a flicker noise reduction of 30 dB within 100 Hz using AFD. The percent overshoot is reduced from 36.2% (1DOF PID) to 8.95% (2DOF PID, about 75.3% overshoot suppression) with 15.3% improvement in setting time.


Peer-reviewed. Copyright © 1998 F.X. O'Beirn et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.


Between 22nd of April and the 5th of May 1988, the now infamous 'Grotte d'Ouvéa', event took place. Ouvéa is one of the 'Loyalty' islands off the French colony of New Caledonia. Militants fighting for independence took local police hostage and took refuge in a cave. The incident ended with 19 anti-colonial indigenous (or Kanak) fighters and two hostages dead at the hands of French military and paramilitary forces. A year later, Djubelly Wéa gunned down the great Kanak political leader, Jean-Marie Tjibaou (1936-1989) and his aide Yeiwéné Yeiwéné during a ceremony on Ouvéa marking the end to the period of mourning for those killed in the raid. Wéa felt that Djibaou had sold out his people in signing the Matignon accords, a compromise between the forces of the white land-holders and the native people that hoped to end the mounting bloodshed. Djibaou's death would close a significant chapter in the most recent struggle for independence from French imperialism by an indigenous people. It would also seal the destiny of Ouvéa, and particularly the caves, as a distinct and powerful postcolonial 'realm of memory.'


The author critically examines fertility projections made during the twentieth century. The focus is on how inaccuracies in these predictions have affected policy and development strategies in developed countries. He examines fertility trends in 11 such countries and finds that contrary to current projections of declining fertility "both labor demand and labor supply conditions are likely to be more favorable for young adults in the coming decade and the resulting improvement in relative affluence of young adults should have a positive impact on childbearing." Particular attention is given to the United States. (EXCERPT)


Synopsis : Kawasaki Steel has developed, in Chiba Works, a new smelting reduction process for the recycling of the steelmaking dust containing valuable metals. This process is characterized by a coke packed-bed shaft furnace with two-stage tuyeres (STAR process) which enables direct use of dust without agglomeration. Bench-scale and pilot-plant tests were carried out to confirm the principles and effectiveness of the process. A commercial plant with the metal production of 140 t/d started its operation in May, 1994 and has been operating successfully. Development of the STAR process has enabled to improve the retrieving ratio of metallic sources (Fe, Cr, Ni) contained in steelmaking dust.


Two zinc(II) and cadmium(II) metal-organic frameworks with mixed ligands, {[Zn2(biim-4)2(TDC)2]·2.5H2O}n (1) and {[Cd2(biim-4)2(TDC)2·2H2O]}n (2) [biim-4 = 1,1′-(1,4-butanediyl)bis(imidazole); H2TDC = thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylic acid], were hydrothermally synthesized. Both of them are characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and single crystal X-ray diffraction. In 1, the four-connected ZnII nodes are connected by four linear ligands extending into a 3D network, which further integrates a fivefold interpenetrating diamond 3D topological network and the free water molecules distribute in void space, whereas in 2, the CdII ions are in a distorted octahedral arrangement linked by TDC2– and biim-4 ligands to construct a 3D framework. In topology analysis, C11 and C14 are simplified as 3-connected nodes and the 3D framework displays a (3,5)-connected net. Furthermore, the thermal and photoluminescent properties of 1 and 2 were also studied.


Abstract The additional member system used for elections to the Scottish Parliament and the National Assembly for Wales has been controversial for electing two types of representatives, those elected by list PR in multi‐member regions and others elected by plurality 'first‐past‐the‐post' in single‐member constituencies. Members elected by list PR are taking on a constituency role, despite apparent institutional incentives to the contrary, although list members seem more inclined to 'represent' organised interests. The 'shadowing' of constituency members by regional party list members has been a source of strain in the relations between the two types of representative as they come to terms with the new electoral system.


This is a review article which elaborates the results presented in [1], where
 the variational principle of Herglotz type with a Lagrangian that depends on
 fractional derivatives of both real and complex orders is formulated and the
 invariance of this principle under the action of a local group of symmetries
 is determined. The conservation law for the corresponding fractional Euler
 Lagrange equation is obtained and a sequence of approximations of a
 fractional Euler-Lagrange equation by systems of integer order equations
 established and analyzed.


This paper describes teachers, parents and educational psychologists working together to meet the needs of children and young people with autistic spectrum difficulties in mainstream and special schools. It examines the impact on children's social behaviour of a two-session workshop for groups of parents/carers, teachers and learning support assistants about 'Social Stories' (Gray, 1994). It highlights the contribution that Social Stories can make to the management of a wide range of social behaviours, including inappropriate sexual behaviour, unsafe behaviour and obsessional behaviour. Issues raised by the use of Social Stories and their benefits for children with autistic spectrum difficulties are considered. The paper concludes by describing the developing diversity in the use of Social Stories and invites those working in the field to contribute to the body of information about their strengths and limitations.


The present invention provides a forward osmosis membrane having an inducing agent therein, comprising: a porous support body layer; an inducing agent layer physically or chemically fixed to one side of the porous support body layer and including one or more inducing agents for inducing osmosis selected from the group consisting of a particle coated with a polymer for inducing osmosis, a polymer-type ionic liquid, an ion exchange resin, an insoluble salt including a metal oxide, and a polyelectrolyte; and an active layer coated on the inducing agent layer. According to the present invention, a permeated solution having permeated through the membrane in a conventional way is not mixed with the inducing agent since the inducing agent for inducing osmosis is internally provided in the membrane, thereby eliminating the need for providing an inducing solution reproducing device for separating the permeated solution. Therefore, it is possible to improve economic efficiency of the process.


The relations between the society and Buddhism in the middle of the Tang Dynasty were the important parts in the Development of Buddhism in Tang.In the aspect of the relation between Buddhism and leading political culture,the article analyzes the relations of emperors, scholar-bureaucart and Buddhism,and the thoughts of anti-Buddhism and conciliation for Comfucianism and Buddhism.It also demonstrates that characteristics in the relations mentioned above establish the basic principles of society and Buddhism in later ages.


Analytical performance characteristics of the QIAsymphony RGQ system with artus CMV 3 reagents were determined. Measurable range spanned 2.0 to ≥ 7.0 log 10 copies/mL. The detection 4 limit was 23 copies/mL. Intra-run and inter-run coefficients of variation were < 2.1% at 3.0 and 5 5.0 log 10 copies/mL. In clinical specimens, RGQ values were ~0.2 log 10 copies/mL higher than 6 an assay using BioRobot M48 extraction/manual reaction set-up/7500 Real-Time PCR 7 instrument. No cross-contamination was observed. 8 DNA has allowing pre-emptive monitoring antiviral treatment response, antiviral drug resistance Instrumentation systems that incorporate automated nucleic acid extraction with volumetric pipetting stations for reaction set-up are highly desirable solutions to meet mounting testing needs. The aim of this study was to investigate the performance of the QIAsymphony RGQ system for CMV DNA quantification in plasma using artus CMV reagents 18 (Qiagen). The QIAsymphony RGQ system is comprised of an automated extraction instrument (Qiasymphony SP), an automated volumetric pipetting system for reaction set-up (AS module) 20 and a real-time PCR instrument (Rotor-Gene Q). CMV reagents are available as ASR. They are currently designated as RUO when adapted for use on RGQ. Analytical performance characteristics of the RUO assay were determined.


The chromosome abnormalities of blastocysts(6 d ~ 8 d)produced by IVF(in vitro fertilization)with flow cytometrically-sorted,stained and unsorted sperm from 3 bulls were investigate,which observed if the sorting procedure and staining cause the chromosomal abnormality of embryos.The results that there were no significant differences in chromosomal abnormality(mosaic)rates of blastocysts derived from sorted,stained unsorted and unsorted sperm respectively(40.7%,35.8%,37.0%,);Chromosomal abnormality rates were variant among bulls(30.0% vs 44.6%;p0.05)indicated that neither sorting procedure nor staining affect the chromosomal composition of embryos and the chromosomal abnormality rates of embryos were variable among bulls.


The feasibility of in‐situ rock density determinations by means of subsurface cosmic‐ray muon intensity measurements is based on theoretical calculations for two hypothetical scintillation counter telescopes: one is intended for registration in a gallery and the other is intended for use in narrow boreholes. It is shown that it is possible to measure the mean density of the rock traversed by the muons by measuring the muon intensity. The sensitivity of the method is favorable—a 1 percent change in mean rock density corresponds to a change of about 3 percent in the counting rate. A possible use of cosmic‐ray muon technique is the localization of an anomalous density distribution in overlying rock. A characteristic minimum registration time to detect a certain density anomaly varies from a few hours to about 10 days, depending on the geologic situation and the depth and design of the detector. The device is found to be most applicable for massive sulfide and iron exploration. This tecnique provides some new...


This study aims to provide basic data for establishing the safety and health plan by investigating the exposure conditions in the facilities registering business about handling radiations and radioactive isotopes in Korea. dose levels(working space, worker location) of the workers in 153 facilities were measured using surveymeter, and individual exposure concentration[(shallow dose(SD), depth dose(DD)] in 27 facilities using thermal luminescence dosimeter(TLD). In accordance with the measurement results by business type[fire fighting prevention business(FFPB, n


This article takes the Yi nationality costumes in Yunnan minority nationality as an example, introduces virtual reality and somatosensory interaction technologies, overcomes the shortcomings of the forms too conservative and poor interactivity of the traditional digital means to achieve the research purpose of improving the virtual digital protection of national costumes. Proposed methods are as follows: firstly, we use 3DMAX to design and manufacture the 3D model of Yi nationality chieftain clothing; secondly, we use the model database of Yi chieftain clothing to structure the digital museum display system of virtual clothing; finally, we use the Yi chieftain clothing model database to develop the Yi chieftain clothing digital APP based on mobile terminal and use the Cardboard to achieve interactive wear of virtual clothing. Through the use of virtual exhibition design technology of 3D simulation and virtual interaction of garment, it can intuitively show the unique charm of Yi nationality chieftain clothing and culture connotation, so people can stay at home to understand the Yi nationality chieftain clothing culture and feel its unique beauty. Therefore, VR technology can be used to carry on the virtual digital promotion and communication of Yi nationality costumes in Yunnan.


Characteristics of cognitive, prognostic, regulative and communicative functions of tactical operations are considered. They reflect basic activities in carrying out tactical operations, their role and purpose in crime investigation.


The SER was measured using the gravimetric method of Strauss & Pochi (1961) in 15 female and 29 male patients, aged 18-81, and 200 control patients with warts or other localized dermatoses. The SER was expressed as a percentage of the control values matched for age and sex. The mean SER of the male patients was normal (94%±s.d.4o), but that ofthe female patients was reduced to 51% its.d.30 and this decrease was highly significant (P<o-ooi). SSL was obtained from the uninvolved forehead skin of 19 female and 32 male patients by the cup method using ether as a solvent, and was analysed by quantitative thin layer chromatography, using the method of Pye et al. (1976). The results obtained were compared with normal age matched controls but no major abnormalities in sebum composition were detected. Minor changes were found if the samples were taken from scaly red skin of the scalp, but these were not specific for seborrhoeic dermatitis, being found in other scaling scalp dermatoses such as psoriasis. These results do not support the idea that seborrhoeic dermatitis is associated with seborrhoea or a change in SSL composition.


The free radical hypothesis is one of the most widely accepted theories of aging. In this respect antioxidant agents, stabilizing free radical‐induced damage of biological membranes, can be considered as possible geropsychotropic drugs. Comparative experimental investigation of 3‐ and 18‐month‐old albino male rats demonstrated age‐related functional insufficiency in some behavioural tests in elderly animals. Consumption of the antioxidant 2‐ethyl‐6‐methyl‐3‐hydroxypyridine (3‐HP) (40–75 mg/kg/day) for two months normalized memory function, motor‐skill learning, and motor coordination in 18‐month‐old rats. Furthermore, 3‐HP ingestion during chronic alcohol administration improved learning in alcohol‐treated mice. The beneficial effect of 3‐HP on age‐related and alcohol‐induced decline of memory and learning ability may be due to its ability to increase cell resistance to different disturbing actions.


Background: Although leptin and its principal mediators, neuropeptide Y (NPY) and -melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) are postulated to play a pivotal role in the energy balance in experimental animals, the physiologic roles of leptin and its molecular targets are not fully identified in cases of human obesity. Methods: The subjects consisted of 16 obese women (mean BMI 35.6 kg/m 2 ) before and after weight loss that was induced by a 2 week-very low caloric diet (800 kcal/day) and 14 normal weight women (who had a mean BMI of 20.4 kg/m 2 ). We evaluated the plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leptin, NPY and -MSH levels and their relationship in normal weight and obese women. Additionally, changes of these peptides during a negative energy balance (800 kcal/day) were assessed in causes of human obesity. Results: Obese subjects exhibited a 6.3-fold higher plasma leptin level (21.9±1.2 vs 3.5±0.4 ng/mL, p<0.05) and a 2.8-fold higher CSF leptin level (0.29±0.02 vs 0.10±0.01 ng/mL, p<0.05) compared to control subjects. The CSF/plasma leptin ratio in normal weight subjects was 2.3-fold higher than that in obese subjects. After a weight loss in obese subjects, the plasma leptin level decreased by 40% and the CSF level decreased by 51%. The CSF/plasma leptin ratio was slightly lower than the baseline level. There was a positive linear correlation between CSF and plasma leptin level at the baseline in obese subjects (r= 0.74, p<0.05) and a positive logarithmic correlation in normal


The use of a small two-component electromagnetic current meter to record turbulent velocities in a laboratory flume is described. The results from these experiments are compared with results obtained previously using different measuring techniques.


In this paper, a dynamic recurrent wavelet neural network observer and tracking control strategy is presented for a class of uncertain, nonaffine systems. In proposed scheme a dynamic recurrent wavelet network is used to design a nonlinear observer .Adaptation laws are developed for the online tuning of wavelet parameters. Based on the estimated states, a state feedback control law is derived to achieve the desired tracking performance. The stability of closed loop system and ultimate upper boundedness all closed loop signals is proven in Lyapunov sense. Effectiveness of proposed scheme is demonstrated through numerical simulation.


An acoustic transmission imaging system is used for imaging composite materials. The data for the ultrasonic images were obtained under the control of a 2-80 microprocessor based system. The images are processed by a DEANZA Image Processor with PRIME host computer. This image processor is capable of such functions as Pseudo-coloring and deconvolution to improve resolution. The graphiteepoxy composite materials studied have about 12 layers of fibers oriented in various directions to improve their tensile resistance. The materials were subjected to stresses before imaging them. The objective of the experiment was to study what damage the s tress caused on the materials. The materials a lso had holes drilled in them with either a carbide tipped drill or a high speed steel (HSS) drill and the damage density around the holes was also of special interest.


Background: A recent study indicated that FR276457, a pan-histone deacetylase inhibitor, prevented allograft rejection in an ACI-to-Lewis rat heart transplant model, seemingly without affecting cellular infiltration into the transplanted heart. In this report, we investigated alterations in infiltrating cells in allografts by treatment of FR276457. Materials and Methods: Heterotopic cardiac allografts which were removed from August Copenhagen Irish rats were transplanted into the necks of Lewis rats. FR276457 40 mg/kg or vehicle was subsequently administered orally for 5 consecutive days beginning on the operation day after recovery from anesthesia (Day 0). The allograft recipients were sacrificed under anesthesia on Day 5 after transplantation. At first, we identified infiltrating cells into the allografts by the histopathological analysis. In addition, we isolated the infiltrating cells from allografts, sorted CD8 positive (CD8 + ) T cells, and then investigated cytotoxicity of CD8 + T cells against spleen cells from an August Copenhagen Irish rat. Results: Histopathological analysis of allografts on Day 5 after the heart transplant showed that infiltration of T cells was not suppressed in FR276457-treated allograft recipients, compared with those in vehicle-treated allograft recipients, although the infiltration of ED1 positive cells was tended to decrease. Ex vivo analysis revealed that alloantigen-specific cytotoxicity of CD8 + T cells, isolated from allografts in FR276457-treated allograft recipients, against ACI rat splenocytes was much lower than that in vehicle-treated allograft recipients. Conclusion: FR276457 treatment suppressed the alloantigen-specific cytotoxicity of CD8 + T cells infiltrated into


In 1853, Rev. Frederick Meyrick promoted the creation of the Anglo-Continental Society with the aim of making the principles of the Church of England known to Catholic Europe through the publication and dissemination of Anglican theological books and treatises. From the beginning Italy was the main field of activity of this society, which, relying on the network of English chaplaincies, fostered the circulation of the Italian translations of the Book of Common Prayer in Italy. After 1870, the Anglo-Continental Society closely followed the developments of the Old Catholic movement in Italy and, between 1881 and 1903, promoted Enrico Campello's National Catholic Church of Italy. One of the agents of the Anglo-Continental Society most active in Italy, the former Maltese Catholic priest Michel Angelo Camilleri, prepared a revision of the Italian Prayer Book, edited by the SPCK, that was published multiple times between 1861 and 1929.


Introduction. In modern society it is necessary to acquire the new meanings and value orientations of the education mission. The context of understanding and the significant reference points hierarchy in the education sphere are constantly changing in the world. The ways to realize socially significant priorities in the sphere of education are widely represented in the international scientific and pedagogical space, but they are of a fragmented character, which does not allow a particular state, society, family and individual fully meeting the prosocial needs. The social demands in Russia are connected with a clear understanding of the need to educate a citizen and a patriot in accordance with the traditional spiritual and moral values and prosocial pedagogical attitudes. In terms of regulatory framework a serious groundwork for the realization of the prosocial mission of modern education has been created. Research goal is to determine the main characteristics of the prosocial mission of education in the current information and regulatory framework in order to identify the growth points and to develop the ways for their implementation in the Russian society. Research methodology and methods. The research is based on the methodology and basic pedagogical ideas of prosocial approach; the authors used qualitative analysis of data obtained from information, regulatory sources, scientific literature and expert opinion study, as well as observation, comparison, conceptual foresight and problem-logical methods. The empirical research was based on survey methods – questionnaires, expert survey (1,150 people) and discussion of the results obtained in focus groups of experts (more than 100 people) and representatives of five general education organizations in Belgorod and Belgorod region (53 people). Research insights. The actual source and regulatory framework of the phenomenon under study has been identified. It is defined that the prosocial mission of education considers the role of education in the development of positive traits of young people and sustainable development of society. Two groups of growth points of the prosocial mission of education are identified: 1) reflection of the international priorities (supporting the ideas of sustainable development of education at the political level; reforming the education and professional training spheres; improving professional level of pedagogical staff; involving young people; activating local population representatives); 2) national dominants (values and quality of education; social design and volunteering; teacher helping activity; communication and interaction in teaching). Conclusion. Understanding prosocial mission of education, teaching staff can choose the content, forms and ways to arrange the education process, to construct the communication style and use helping pedagogical strategies, to make the criteria choice to evaluate the educational outcome.


This position paper first briefly reviews the basic concepts about cognitive radio (CR) technology, and then discusses the differentiating features of CR and the fundamental theories or principles behind CR, especially from the artificial intelligence and machine learning perspective. A survey on the state-of-the-art development on CR testbeds around the world is presented, which indicates the trend of future development. A lot of emerging research topics in various areas are also discussed, which could be further investigated in an innovative CR approach.


Single soil-column studies were carried out to understand the influence of industrial pharmaceutical effluent on the physico-chemical behaviour and index and strength properties of commercial and natural soils, due to artificial contamination extending to a period of 250 days. Two modes of operation, two HRTs and two concentrations of effluents, were the parameters considered. The unique role played by the effluent in influencing the physico-chemical behaviour and the index properties of soils are highlighted. It is found that the strengths of the soils were reduced by 20%, within the period of concentration and suitable remedial measures were suggested.


A description of an approach to primary local image recognition is given. The motivation for its application and its characteristics are discussed. Then a method for correction of misclassifications that occur in primary local image recognition is proposed. This method uses a graph-based estimation technique that uses information contained in supplementary classes in order to remove misclassifications and/or confirm the correct recognition of pixel hypotheses. In addition, the method is able to remove the supplementary classes after they are no longer needed. The particular features of the considered approach are that it is iterative and uses structures similar to those of center weighted median filters. The numerical simulation results are presented to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed technique.


-Flowering phenology, seed set and dispersal, and seedling establishment patterns of Clethra alnifolia in three wetland forests are described. Flowering patterns were similar between years but differed among sites. Tagged shrubs had high rates of fruit set and most fruits persisted until seed dispersal. Seed fall and seedling distribution patterns suggested that seed are adequately dispersed from parent plants. Germination experiments showed high seed viability, but low numbers of seedlings at all sites suggested constraints on establishment. Significant differences were detected in seedling establishment success in different forest floor microsites. Availability of safe sites influenced the relative contributions of sexual and asexual reproduction to new recruitment. Environmental conditions in the wetland forest appeared unsuitable for successful seedling recruitment and Clethra appears to rely on vegetative reproduction to regenerate existing populations.


Under the right conditions any drive can overcome nearly any other, yet studies of behavioural selection predominantly focus on only one, or occasionally two behaviours. We present an experimental and computational framework that captures and explains the resolution of conflicts between several competing motivations. We characterize neurons that integrate information from all rival drives to generate an aggregate signal that urges male Drosophila to transition out of mating. Experimental investigation of these Drive Integrating Neurons (DINs) revealed time-varying, supralinear interactions among competing drives that stimulate the DINs and induce a change in behaviour. Extending these findings to model the interactions between all of an animal's motivations led to the surprising prediction that, under many conditions, all-to-all interactions actually buffer the dominant drive against challengers. We experimentally validated this prediction, showing that weak drives for a variety of tertiary goals can have a profound stabilizing effect on the ongoing behaviour. These results emerge only if non-linear integration of other motivations occurs for each of an animal's drives, suggesting the potential universality of this mechanism. Our findings emphasize the interconnectedness of motivational systems and the consequent importance of considering the full motivational state of an animal to understand its behaviour.


Much research effort has recently been devoted to the electromagnetic control of saltwater flows, exploiting the macroscopic interaction of saltwater with electric currents and magnetic fields. This interaction is governed by the equations of viscous incompressible MHD, essentially, the Navier-Stokes equations coupled to Maxwell's equations. A major problem in the analysis and numerical solution of these equations is the fact that while the Navier-Stokes equations are posed in the fluid domain, Maxwell's equations are generally posed on all of space. Consequently, electric and magnetic fields do not satisfy standard boundary conditions, but jump or continuity relations on the surface of the fluid domain (and other interfaces). Frequently the resulting difficulties are circumvented by prescribing more or less artificial boundary conditions. In this paper we present a novel formulation of the MHD equations that avoids some inherent difficulties of more traditional approaches by employing the electric current density rather than the magnetic field as the primary electromagnetic variable. This formulation leads to initialboundary value problems for a system of integro-differential equations in the fluid domain and lends itself naturally to the use of finite-element based discretization techniques. As a first application we describe a mixed finite-element method for the numerical solution of a class of stationary MHD flow problems and report on the computational simulation of a simple drag reduction experiment.


The present invention relates to absorbent articles suitable for absorbing and retaining aqueous body fluids. Absorbent articles of the present invention comprise a discontinuous, substantially fluid impervious backsheet and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The absorbent core comprises a plurality of core components which are removable, with access for removal provided by at least one discontinuity forming an opening in the backsheet. Once removed, other absorbent core components or layers of components may remain in the absorbent article. Also, additional absorbent core components or layers may be added through the opening in the backsheet. In a preferred embodiment the absorbent core comprises a plurality of components, including at least a front panel, a rear panel and a center section. Each of the absorbent components may include layers of absorbent members. Upon saturation with bodily discharges certain components or members of the absorbent core may be removed from the absorbent article through the backsheet. New, unsaturated absorbent components or members may then be positioned in place of the removed saturated components or members, or, more preferably, upon removal of the saturated component or member, an additional unused component or member may remain in position for use.


The Catholic Imagination of Czeslaw Milosz Artur Sebastian Rosman Chair of the Supervisory Committee: Professor Leroy Searle Comparative Literature This dissertation will argue, using a unique hermeneutic model, for interpreting the poetic work of Nobelist Czeslaw Milosz as thoroughly permeated by a Catholic imagination. The introduction will outline a general theory of the imagination and how it has swerved from analogy (classically Catholic) into several types of analogy (Protestant, scientific, and literary) because of historical epistemological failures. The body of the Rosman/ ii argument consists of three chapters that argue, following arguments made by the poet in his works, for the continuity of a religious poetic voice throughout his career. It does so by demonstrating the continuity of theological interest in the poems of Milosz's early, middle, and late period. Besides being a contribution to Milosz studies, the foregoing argument will also show how much contemporary literary theory is permeated by historically conditioned theological assumptions that are neither clearly acknowledged nor well understood. The elaboration of an expanded conception of imagination in the introduction hinges on the recognition that "imagination" is not sufficiently apprehended as a psychological power or function nor an epistemological premise, since it is inculcated through many elements and practices to constitute a worldview. Central to this conception is a parallel expansion of the idea of the liturgical, not restricted to elements of commonly identified as religious, but including them as indexical and accessible, playing multiple roles in axiological contexts, circumstances of reflection or judgment, and the inhabitation of a world as communally constituted and continued. The historical dimension is treated, albeit schematically, to illustrate that there is no contradiction in there being multiple imaginations, with the primary focus for the subject of concern here the Catholic imagination. The focus on the example and the work Nobel laureate Czeslaw Milosz is crucial. My central claim is that Milosz, an unmistakably powerful and influential poetic voice in the modern world, is very commonly read and critically commented upon without sufficient attention either to his life-long concern with religious, frequently theological Rosman/ iii issues, but to an encompassing Catholic imagination that is a major shaping element throughout his career. The chapters in this dissertation take on multiple critical purposes, to frame the issues so as to make clear both how a specifically Catholic imagination can be discerned and understood, and to provide critical commentary and analysis of selected major poems, from his earliest to his latest. In the concluding chapter, the subject is Milosz's long poem, late in his career, "A Treatise on Theology", itself possibly unique in recent literature. My concern will be to show that this is not as the title appears, a mixing of genres, but an explicit and eloquent address to the union of poetry and religious life, neither doctrinaire nor defensive in embracing the historical community and communion of Catholicism. It exemplifies poetry not as merely craft, but as a profound way of


The structure of the orthorhombic form of the title compound has been determined by X-ray crystallography. The space group was found to be P212121 (No.19,D24 = V4) with a 10.01(5), b 5.944(6), c 17.5469(7) A and Z 4. The structure was refined by least squares to R 0.0614. It consists of chains of molecules with the carboxy oxygen atom, the amino nitrogen atom and the two chlorine atoms forming an approximate square plane about the copper atom, with two bridging chlorine atoms from two adjacent molecules completing a distorted octahedron. Extensive hydrogen bonding links the chains together.


Piezoelectric energy harvesting has become a feasible method for powering micro portable electronics and wireless sensor networks by converting ambient vibration energy into electrical energy. As a thumb of rule, it is critical to tune the resonant frequency of the generator to the frequency of the environmental vibrations in order to induce the maximum structural deformation and then the maximum converted electrical energy through piezoelectric effect. However, it is well-known that the ambient vibrations are not usually fixed in only one single frequency and could span over a limited frequency band. In this paper, a band-pass design optimization of piezoelectric cantilever bimorph (PCB) energy harvester is presented based on the system transfer function of the PCB generator presented in a previous literature. For such an energy harvester, a group of PCB with dimensions appropriately selected can be integrated into a band-pass energy harvester working over a limited frequency band if the dimensions of piezoelectric bimorphs and proof masses are appropriately chosen. Further, the finite element analysis (FEA) of such a band-pass energy harvester is performed in ANSYS to validate the theoretical proposal. The result shows that the band-pass design optimization leads to a piezoelectric generator working over a certain frequency band while keeping outputting the relatively stable open-circuit voltage.


Using data from the June 1980 Current Population Survey, Morgan, Lye, and Condran (1988) reported that families with a daughter have a higher divorce risk than families with a son. They attribute this finding to the higher involvement of fathers in raising a son, which in turn promotes marital stability. We investigate the relation between gender composition of children and parents' divorce risk with cross-national data from the Fertility and Family Survey. These data, which cover 16 European countries, Canada, and the United States, do not support a general hypothesis that sons contribute more to marital stability than daughters.


Self-Adhesive Carbon Grains (SACG) is carbon powder that can be compacted into shaped by a compression moulding technique without adding any binder. A low temperature pre-carbonization process was used to prepare SACG from oil palm empty fruit bunch. SACG were ball milled for 36 hours and sieved to obtain powder with particle size less than 53 micron. SACG were then treated with different concentration of K2CO3. The mixture was dried in oven at 110 o C for 24 hours. The effect of K2CO3 treatment on SACG has been investigated by thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), Fourier transform-infra red (FTIR) and CHNO (carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen) analysis. The thermogravimetric analysis showed that the addition of K2CO3 in SACG has progressively promoted the pyrolysis and accelerated the dehydrogenation of the treated sample at much lower temperature. The FTIR analysis on the treated SACG found that the peak intensity of carboxyl C = O and = C – H bands decreased as the concentration of K2CO3 increased. The CHNO analysis showed that the present of K2CO3 in the SACG caused a small change in the elemental composition of the mixture. However, the above results indicate that the K2CO3 treatment has changed the thermal characteristic and chemical structure of the SACG.


Abstract — In this paper we present the recurrent formulas for derivatives of solutions of two multidimensional inverse problems of determining the solution and two coefficients of second order partial differential equations. The analyticity of one of the coefficients leads to its uniqueness; therefore, for determination of the other one we can use the known methods and results of the theory of multidimensional inverse problems. In particular, we can use the results of numerous works by V. G. Romanov (see, for example, [2]).


(hereinafter called 3 ) reconstruction and is typically modeled with a single Sn atom occupying T4-adsorption sites (i.e., T4-sites) in the 3 unit cell (see Fig. 1). When it cools from the critical temperature TC of ~210K to near 100K, the surface reconstruction completes a gradual and reversible transition to a (3 × 3) phase [1]. Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) images show that one of the T4-site Sn atomic protrusions in the (3 × 3) unit cell appears to be different than the other two [2]. Despite several investigations of this system, the structure and nature of this transition are still unresolved [1, 3]. The main controversies are whether the Sn atoms (and underlying Ge atoms) possess a rippled topography at both RT and low temperature (LT) and whether the topography is "one up and two down" or "two up and one down."


Sometimes events coincide happily. At other times the coincidence rings strangely. This year Youth Homelessness Matters Day is celebrated the day before Easter Sunday: desolation confronts happiness, penury plenty, and deprivation plenitude.


In organic bulk heterojunction solar cells, the open circuit voltage ($V_\mathrm{oc}$) suffers from an ultra-high loss at low temperatures. In this work we investigate the origin of the loss through calculating the $V_\mathrm{oc}-T$ plots with the device model method systematically and comparing it with experimentally observed ones. When the energetic disorder is incorporated into the model by considering the disorder-suppressed and temperature-dependent charge carrier mobilities, it is found that for nonselective contacts the $V_\mathrm{oc}$ reduces drastically under the low temperature regime, while for selective contacts the $V_\mathrm{oc}$ keeps increasing with the decreasing temperature. The main reason is revealed that as the temperature decreases, the reduced mobilities give rise to low charge extraction efficiency and small bimolecular recombination rate for the photogenerated charge carriers, so that in the former case they can be extracted from the wrong electrode to form a leakage current which counteracts the photocurrent and increases quickly with voltage, leading to the anomalous reduction of $V_\mathrm{oc}$. In addition, it is revealed that the charge generation rate is slow-varying with temperature and does not induce significant $V_\mathrm{oc}$ loss. This work also provides a comprehensive picture for the $V_\mathrm{oc}$ behavior under varying device working conditions.


In the view of the current discussion on how to regulate the emerging InsurTech companies, if at all, the author attempts to demonstrate that rather than automatically introducing new regulation, the principle of proportionality can, in most cases, help to adapt application of the existing rules and policy approaches to the InsurTech business models without incurring major regulatory changes. An example of peer-to-peer platforms is used to show how the specificity of each InsurTech company can be grasped by the three key criteria of proportionality: nature, scale and complexity.


Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most frequent DNA sequence variations in the genome. They have been studied extensively in the last decade with various purposes in mind. In this chapter, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using SNPs for human identification and briefly describe the methods that are preferred for SNP typing in forensic genetics. In addition, we will illustrate how SNPs can be used as investigative leads in the police investigation by discussing the use of ancestry informative markers and forensic DNA phenotyping. Modern DNA sequencing technologies (also called next-generation sequencing or NGS) have the potential to completely transform forensic genetic investigations as we know them today. Here, we will make a short introduction to NGS and explain how NGS may combine analysis of the traditional forensic genetic markers with analysis of SNPs. This will allow acquisition of more information from the sample materials and open up for new possibilities as well as new challenges.

Keywords:

single nucleotide polymorphism;
forensic genetics;
human identification;
population genetics;
ancestry informative marker;
forensic DNA phenotyping;
pigmentary traits


Two November issues of Science recounted tragic events involving cetaceans. To prevent future tragedies, we must take to heart the important lessons from these events and apply them to wildlife conservation.

In the 10 November issue, a News In Depth story ("North Atlantic right whale faces


In this article, the evaporation of a spherically symmetric single core compound drop with constant properties was numerically studied. Depending on whether the boiling point of inner core liquid or the outer shell liquid is higher, there are two scenarios. Dodecane, ethanol, and water were chosen as the representative fluids for computation. The histories of surface temperature, interface temperature, center temperature, and evaporation rate of the compound drop are presented. For a dodecane-in-ethanol compound drop, the evaporation rate of ethanol decreased with increasing dodecane content. For a water-in-dodecane compound drop, the data show that the evaporation rate of dodecane slightly decreased with increasing water content.


The article studies the problem of adequacy of comprehension of specific Russian cultural concepts by English speakers, on the material of English translation of M. Sholokhov's «And Quiet Flows the Don». The author defines a degree of concurrence of the author's linguistic worldview and the one reconstructed by the translator.


The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between selected single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), associated with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in previous genome-wide association studies, and major adverse events following AAA repair

 Genomic DNA was isolated from blood samples collected from AAA patients and used for genotyping. A genetic risk score was constructed using five SNPs known to be associated with AAA. Epidemiologic data were extracted from the electronic medical record and analyzed retrospectively. Major adverse events were defined as myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, respiratory failure requiring tracheostomy, renal failure requiring dialysis, colonic ischemia requiring resection, limb ischemia requiring operation, multi-system organ failure or death.

 Three hundred and twenty one patients (267 male, 83%) with complete genomic and clinical data underwent AAA repair from 2004-2012. Demographics were consistent with a standard AAA population. 204 patients (64%) underwent endovascular repair and 117 (36%) underwent conventional open surgical repair. Quality control checks were performed on the clinical and laboratory data and none of the 5 selected SNPs deviated from the Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium. Stepwise logistic regression was then used to determine the most parsimonious model of variables associated with adverse outcomes from AAA repair. Serum creatinine, height, resting heart rate, diastolic blood pressure and the genetic risk score remained in the model. The Hosmer and Lemeshow test of deviation from goodness-of-fit (p = 0.56) indicated that the data fit the model well. The regression coefficients from this model will be used to construct a clinician-friendly risk calculator to help identify patients at increased risk for a major adverse event following AAA repair.

 Selected SNPs help identify patients at risk for major adverse events following AAA repair. Incorporating genetic data, especially in patients with few clinical risk factors, may result in a better preoperative risk assessment.


available at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28637364 Editorial Comment: In the right hands and in those dedicated to the technology holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) has been reported to have consistently and reliably superb and durable results. At least in the United States HoLEP has not taken a large market share principally because the learning curves have been significantly longer. Finally, real-life experience with these techniques in the urological community has not been as well received. Other issues such as cost, reliability of technique, case to case reproducibility of short-term results and, most importantly, durability have minimized their foothold. In this study HoLEP is compared to robot-assisted simple prostatectomy. Not surprisingly, both methods work for prostates with baseline volumes greater than 80 gm, although perioperative events such as transfusions, length of stay, catheter time, postoperative urinary retention and procedure time favor HoLEP. It appears that given the decrease in robotic prostate cancer procedures during the last few years, folks are looking for new ways to keep the robot busy. While baseline prostate volume is not reported for the robot-assisted simple prostatectomy group in this study, there are those who are performing this procedure in patients who can easily and with reduced morbidity undergo transurethral approaches. Are we really doing our patients a service in performing an abdominal procedure with prolonged catheterization just because we can? Interestingly the rates of ejaculatory dysfunction are not reported for either group, although one suspects that when an entire adenoma is taken out, the rate is going to approach 100%. In a world where there are so many endoscopic techniques that can preserve sexual function abdominal approaches seem like overkill except in very large prostates. Let's not become captured by technologies that are looking for indications! Steven A. Kaplan, MD Suggested Reading Foster HE, Barry MJ, Dahm P et al: Surgical management of lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia: AUA guideline. J Urol 2018; 200: 612. Re: Long-Term Dutasteride Therapy in Men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Alters Glucose and Lipid Profiles and Increases Severity of Erectile Dysfunction A. Traish, K. S. Haider, G. Doros and A. Haider Departments of Biochemistry and Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2017; 30: 20170015. doi: 10.1515/hmbci-2017-0015 Abstract available at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28632494 416 BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIAavailable at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28632494 416 BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA Copyright © 2019 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited. Editorial Comment: Medical therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia has been the mainstay treatment for the last 25 years. We routinely prescribe agents of various classes either as monotherapy or in combination, and have our staff renew refills. We focus on the things we think are important: efficacy and safety. Efficacy, while different for various patients, is determined in a fairly standardized way, ie symptom improvement, changes in some objective parameters and, with some agents such as dutasteride, reduction in prostate volume. Adverse events may include dizziness, nasal congestion and, more likely, sexual dysfunction. That is the stuff we know about. However, there have been a plethora of reports on how long-term use of medications for various maladies has led to unintended consequences. For example there have been recent reports that long-term use of tamsulosin may lead to an increased risk of dementia and that finasteride may be associated with increased rates of depression. A number of disturbing findings are reported in this retrospective registry study of 230 men taking dutasteride and followed for 36 to 42 months, including increased blood glucose, serum transaminases, HbA1c, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein, reduced testosterone and increased rates of erectile dysfunction. It is noteworthy that the original registry studies for finasteride and dutasteride did not reveal significant changes in metabolic function. However, those covered relatively short periods, ie 1 year. Longer term use has been less extensively evaluated. In fact, the REDUCE study group reported that there was a higher incidence of the composite event of cardiac failure in patients receiving dutasteride vs placebo. The reduction in testosterone levels has not been well explained given the mechanism of action of this drug, and numerous previous reports have not noted this phenomenon. There are several limitations to this retrospective study, although it lends credence to concerns about using long-term medical therapy for what is essentially a quality of life matter. One suspects that we are going to see more reports of long-term consequences of medical therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia. This issue should now be part of our discussion with patients and perhaps of reconfiguring our stepwise approach to treatment. Steven A. Kaplan, MD Reference 1. Andriole GL, Bostwick DG, Brawley OW et al: Effect of dutasteride on the risk of prostate cancer. N Engl J Med 2010; 362: 1192. Suggested Reading Haider A, Zitzmann M, Doros G et al: Incidence of prostate cancer in hypogonadal men receiving testosterone therapy: observations from 5-year median followup of 3 registries. J Urol 2015; 193: 80. Re: Yongdamsagan-Tang, a Traditional Herbal Formula, Inhibits Cell Growth through the Suppression of Proliferation and Inflammation in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Epithelial-1 Cells E. Park, M. Y. Lee, C. S. Seo, W. Y. Jeon and H. K. Shin K-Herb Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea J Ethnopharmacol 2017; 209: 230e235. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.08.002 Abstract available at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28782621available at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28782621 Editorial Comment: In theory use of plant extracts to treat patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not far-fetched. At least 118 currently prescribed medications are based on natural sources, with 74% coming from plants, 18% from fungi, 5% from bacteria, and 3% from vertebrate species such as snakes and frogs. There have been numerous reports of varying efficacy of plant extracts for BPH. However, well conducted clinical trials suggest a minimal attributable response beyond placebo. That does not mean there aren't some effects on the cellular level. Yongdamsagantang is a traditional herbal medicine composed of the extracts of a variety of herbaceous plants. This compound is commonly used to treat various inflammatory disorders and has been reported to have various antiproliferative and antioxidative activities. Using the human BPH epithelial BPH-1 cell line, high performance liquid chromatography was performed to ascertain the potential BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA 417 Copyright © 2019 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.


Myc proteins are essential regulators of cellular growth and proliferation during normal development. Activating mutations in myc genes result in excessive growth and are frequently associated with human cancers. At the same time, forced expression of Myc sensitizes vertebrate cells towards different pro‐apoptotic stimuli. Recently, the ability of overexpressed Myc to induce cell‐autonomous apoptosis has been shown to be evolutionarily conserved in Drosophila Myc (dMyc). Here, we show that dMyc induced apoptosis is accompanied by the induction of Drosophila p53 mRNA, but that dp53 activity is not essential for dMyc's ability to induce apoptosis. Conversely, larvae carrying a hypomorphic dmyc mutation are more resistant to the apoptosis‐promoting effects of X‐irradiation. These data suggest that the control of apoptosis is a physiological function of Myc and that dMyc might play a role in the response to DNA damage. genesis 46:104–111, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.


A method is proposed to estimate contribution of an elastic inhomogeneity into the overall strain of the material for the case when strain inside the inhomogeneity is not uniform. Uniform strain is a common situation when the inhomogeneity has an ellipsoidal shape and placed into the uniform stress field. However, the assumption of uniformity is inadequate in many applications when geometrical irregularities of the inhomogeneity, surface effects as well as interactions with other inhomogeneities cause local strain variations in the medium. The proposed method may have far reaching implications when impact of local strain variations on the material overall elastic response is of interest. For example, it may bring insight on how to account for strong interactions between inhomogeneities when predicting material properties and how to mobilize these interactions to achieve better properties. It is well known that interactions may produce stiffening and toughening effects depending on the material microstructure. The compliance contribution tensor is found to be dependent on the boundary displacements of the inhomogeneity and material properties. To illustrate the method we calculated elastic compliances of (1) a circular inclusion with perfectly bonded interface (test problem), (2) a circular inclusion with partially debonded interface, and (3) two strongly interacting cracks in parallel setting.Copyright © 2005 by ASME