The deposition of epoxide groups by plasma polymerization opens new horizons for robust and quick immobilization of biomolecules on any type of substrate. However, as of now there are just very few papers dealing with the deposition of epoxy layers by plasma polymerization, probably due to the high reactivity of this group leading to a low functionalization efficiency. In this work we carried out an extensive experimental and theoretical investigation of plasma synthesis of epoxide groups from a low pressure allyl glycydyl ether (AGE) plasma. The influence of composite parameter W/F and the working pressure on the density of epoxide groups and the layer stability was thoroughly addressed. It was found that by increasing the working pressure it is possible to sufficiently raise the concentration of epoxide groups. The composite parameter W/F was shown to be a crucial parameter in affecting the density of epoxides. An optimal value of W/F of around 2.3 eV per molecule leading to the highest density of epoxides produced in the process at 15 Pa was revealed through FT-IR and XPS findings. This value correlates well with the ab initio calculations suggesting that the lowest bond dissociation energy belongs to the C-O bond of the epoxide ring. Therefore, in order to increase the density of epoxides deposited by plasma polymerization, a precursor molecule containing at least two epoxide rings is strongly advised to be employed.


Cognitive computing systems require human labeled data for evaluation and often for training. The standard practice used in gathering this data minimizes disagreement between annotators, and we have found this results in data that fails to account for the ambiguity inherent in language. We have proposed the CrowdTruth method for collecting ground truth through crowdsourcing, which reconsiders the role of people in machine learning based on the observation that disagreement between annotators provides a useful signal for phenomena such as ambiguity in the text. We report on using this method to build an annotated data set for medical relation extraction for the cause and treat relations, and how this data performed in a supervised training experiment. We demonstrate that by modeling ambiguity, labeled data gathered from crowd workers can (1) reach the level of quality of domain experts for this task while reducing the cost, and (2) provide better training data at scale than distant supervision. We further propose and validate new weighted measures for precision, recall, and F-measure, which account for ambiguity in both human and machine performance on this task.


Renal failure is a major health problem all over the world that significantly lessens Children' s quality of life. Their care is a complex process requires multi disciplinary systems and urgent attention when it is diagnosed. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of nursing intervention on the Quality of life of children undergoing hemodialysis. The study was conducted at pediatrics heamodialysis units of Tanta and Benha University hospitals. A convenient sample of 70 children with chronic renal failure was included in the study (30 of them from Tanta University hospital and 40 from Benha University hospital). Their ages ranged from 8-18 years, with mean age 12.80years±3.43. Interviewing questionnaire sheet and quality of life inventory scales were used to collect the required data. Data were collected in four phases(Initial phase, developmental phase, implementation phase and evaluation phase). The results of the current study revealed that, most of children were males (56%). A significant improvement in psychological domain score was found post intervention, in comparison to that pre intervention with significant decrease in categories of very poor quality of life (P=0.0001), and the percentage increased with the average and high quality of life (P=0.008and 0.061 respectively). There was no significant improvement in physical , social and school attendance domain score of quality of life post intervention in comparison to that pre intervention .with significant improvement only in high quality of life score of physical domain (P=0.002). Regarding to total score of quality of life, significant improvement was found regarding very poor, average and high quality of life post intervention (p=0.0001.0.010 and 0.005) respectively. Conclusion: Nursing intervention had positive effect on all domains of quality of life, specially psychological domain, which showed significant improvement. So it was recommended that, health education sessions should be conducted in heamodialysis units to all nursing staff as care providers, mothers and children to improve the compliance to the prescribed treatment as well as to help them to adapt with their limitation of the disease and its management. [Ebtisam Elsayed, Wafaa El-Soreety, Thanaa Elawany and Faten Nasar Effect of nursing intervention on the Quality of life of children undergoing hemodialysis. Life Science Journal. 2012; 9(1):77-86] (ISSN: 1097-8135). http://www.lifesciencesite.com.


Opportunities of healthcare informatization tools are closely related to and limited by requirements of the corresponding model of care. The paper covers specific features of biopsychosocial patient-centered (BPC) model and their implications for informatization. Some approaches to automation of BPC model are discussed: ecosystem architecture and patient-centered online platform that provides communication infrastructure for consumers and providers of health services. Operation principles, functions and services of the platform are described that should help the platform meet the requirements of BPC model. The proposed online platform can supplement the existing healthcare informatization tools in addressing the challenge of chronic diseases epidemic.


People normally perceive environmental law to be a piecemeal of federal laws mostly concerned with terminating pollution from point sources, such as smoke stacks or water pipes. Land use law on the other hand, is normally a local undertaking, often ignoring national or even regional issues. Today's new breed of environmental problems, such as sprawl, require that different levels of government work together to create a comprehensively planned land use strategy in order to mitigate long-term environmental degradation. Through the use of financial incentives and other tools, larger bodies of government help encourage local governments to take the necessary steps to work among themselves, in order to solve unique local environmental problems within the scope of a larger regional or national plan.


The organizer of a machine learning competition faces the problem of maintaining an accurate leaderboard that faithfully represents the quality of the best submission of each competing team. What makes this estimation problem particularly challenging is its sequential and adaptive nature. As participants are allowed to repeatedly evaluate their submissions on the leaderboard, they may begin to overfit to the holdout data that supports the leaderboard. Few theoretical results give actionable advice on how to design a reliable leaderboard. Existing approaches therefore often resort to poorly understood heuristics such as limiting the bit precision of answers and the rate of resubmission.

In this work, we introduce a notion of leaderboard accuracy tailored to the format of a competition. We introduce a natural algorithm called the Ladder and demonstrate that it simultaneously supports strong theoretical guarantees in a fully adaptive model of estimation, withstands practical adversarial attacks, and achieves high utility on real submission files from an actual competition hosted by Kaggle.

Notably, we are able to sidestep a powerful recent hardness result for adaptive risk estimation that rules out algorithms such as ours under a seemingly very similar notion of accuracy. On a practical note, we provide a completely parameter-free variant of our algorithm that can be deployed in a real competition with no tuning required whatsoever.


Head-mounted displays (HMDs) have the potential to overcome some of the technological limitations of currently existing automotive head-up displays (HUDs), such as the limited field of view and the restrictive boundaries of the windshield. However, in a formative study, we identified other, partially known problems with HMDs regarding content stability and occlusion. As a counter-measure we propose a novel layout mechanism for HMD visualization, which, on the one hand, benefits from the unique characteristics of HMDs and, on the other, combines the advantages of head-stabilized and cockpit-stabilized content. By subdividing the HMD's field of view into different slots to which the content is dynamically assigned depending on the user's head rotation, we ensure that the driver's vision is effectively augmented in every possible direction.


Throughout the fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries major changes in the relations between great states once again highlighted the importance of a land whose history marks all ages — Egypt. Students of Western naval explorations are familiar with the significant place of Egypt in the imperial plans of the Portuguese during their expansion into the Indian Ocean after 1488. But while the Portuguese attempt to control the Red Sea and Persian Gulf trading routes brought Egyptian history solidly within the periphery of European scholarly interest, the almost simultaneous conquest of the Mamluk empire by the Ottomans (1517) makes no such impact on the historiography of the Western world. Yet the seizure of Syria, Egypt, and Arabia not only catapulted the Ottomans into a position of leadership within the vast Muslim community, but it also gave the Istanbul regime resources sufficient to project its power north to the gates of Vienna and west to the Strait of Gibraltar. Could this 'distant' conquest have played a more active role in the history of Europe than hitherto imagined? Clearly the answer to this question involves a comparison between the imperial histories of Europe and the Middle East during the age of the Renaissance. Once the first steps are taken to break the artificial historical divisions preventing such a comparison, there is little doubt that Selim the Grim's victory over the Mamluk empire was a major event in both European and Middle Eastern history.


Few of us would fail to intercede if we happened upon a child being physically attacked. Most of us would shield even an unknown child from witnessing a traumatic event. If we knew that a child might come to harm, such as a toddler playing in traffic, most of us would escort that child to safety. On a personal level, we are committed to the well being of our children. As a society, however, we close our ears to the cries of the children growing up in violent homes. It is now time to give them voice. New research reveals that spousal abuse and child abuse often occur in the same families. Not surprisingly, children growing up in violent families are more likely to become violent teenagers and adults. If we fail to help these children, we acquiesce in training the next generation of abusers and criminals. More importantly, we leave our youngest and most vulnerable victims to cope unaided with their trauma and terror. Although the Minnesota Legislature has taken proper measures to address domestic abuse, further measures are needed to strengthen our civil legal framework. Part II of this article surveys recent social science research on family violence, including the dynamics of violent relationships and the consequent effect on children. Part III examines Minnesota's current statutory framework regarding child custody, visitation, representation and child protection. Specific statutory and procedural changes are recommended in order to more fully protect children. The need for professional education and coordination of services is discussed in the context of preventing future violence.


An innovative methodology in the Paraguayan context was implemented to train rural extensionists in the Department of CaazapAi. It aimed at the empowerment and the transformation of rural extension practices, looking for a more horizontal and participatory model of interaction. In order to reach these objectives, eight monthly training modules were implemented, in which reflexive processes about the problems faced by rural extensionists in their practice and spaces aimed at the construction of proposals to overcome them were implemented. In this article, the implementation, as well as the impact of the training process in the rural extensionists' beliefs, are described and evaluated at a qualitative and a quantitative level. Evidence shows that the implemented methodology significantly transformed the way in which practitioners perceive their role in the context of extension work. Now, they conceive themselves as facilitators that have to work jointly with farmers, instead of those who have to bring them all the solutions.


Abstract Photoelicitation and projective assessment are research methods derived from visual sociology and psychoanalysis respectively. This study combined the methods by having respondents view a commercial, and then showing them one of two versions of a projective drawing showing a lone or a male-accompanied woman sitting on a couch. Respondents were told that the woman in the drawing had just seen the commercial and were asked about what the woman was thinking. The results show that a paper-and-pencil attitude measure correlated moderately with the visually-primed responses, but the visually-primed responses included psychoanalytically-predicted reactions such as denial and displacement and were dependent upon the social situation depicted in the drawing.


Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligatory intracellular protozoan parasite on which studies are pending regarding production of vaccine. To date, the production of human vaccine has not been successful where approximately one third of the world's population is thought to be infected with T. gondii. Objectives: The present study was designed to compare the electrophoretic patterns of T. gondii excreted/secreted antigens (ESAs) and determine their role in the stimulation of the humoral immune response. Materials and Methods: T. gondii ESAs were prepared from cell cultures (albino rat fibroblast) and cell-free mediums (RPMI-1640). Next, the SDS-PAGE technique was used for comparing molecular weights of the antigens. Forty C57BL/6 mice were divided randomly into four groups (n = 10). Immunization was performed subcutaneously at an interval of 2 weeks in two groups by injecting 100 µg of each of the above-mentioned antigens. Two groups, as negative control, also received fibroblast lysate proteins or adjuvant separately. All of the groups were then challenged with the T. gondii RH strain. Serum samples were collected from all mice and measured by immunoblotting technique for detection of immunogenic antigens. Results: The electrophoretic mobility of the prepared antigens/proteins from cell culture, cell-free media, Fibroblast Lysate Proteins and Toxoplasma Lysate Antigens (TLA) showed 13, 12, 8 and 8 bands, respectively. The case groups, in challenge with T. gondii (RH strain), showed more survival prolongation than the control groups. Furthermore, the survival period was identical for both case groups with a tendency for slightly higher survival of mice receiving ESA from cell-free medium. Analysis of sera by immunoblotting also revealed one band of 65 KDa in sera from both case groups. Conclusions: We suggest that this band be extracted and its amino acids sequence determined to produce Synthetic Polypeptide for immunization studies.


The creation of detailed models for computer graphics is a work intensive task, which limits projects in the graphical fidelity which can be achieved. Procedural modelling is an ongoing field of research which aims to alleviate this pressure. The most common systems for procedural modelling specialize in either modelling plants, as is the case with Lsystems, or in modelling buildings, as do shape grammars. This paper aims to show a path for improving this situation, by describing the conception and implementation of a graph grammar for procedural modelling of both artificial (buildings and furniture) and organic (trees and flowers) objects in 2D space. The suitability of the proposed graph grammar is demonstrated by applying it to a variety of modelling tasks, such as a Koch snowflake, circular and square patterns, foliage and a building façade.


Accumulative knowledge on Thermal Energy Storage (TES) is imperative in society today because technology is ever expanding, opening doors for improved innovation that is more sustainable to our environment. TES has a multitude of uses; from simply boiling a kettle of water on a stove to more complex applications such as solar power generation. This research focuses on the application of a thermal energy storage unit introduced to a selected Phase Change Material (PCM) to undergo controlled experimentation. It helpful to gain understanding of how the TES unit will perform in a typical laboratory environment. A PCM is any substance capable of absorbing or releasing sufficient energy to undergo a phase transition. For specified purposes of this work was, the relevant states of matter liquid and solid; hence the use of a paraffin wax was the ideal for the experimental work model where the phase transition from solid to liquid occurs in a relatively low temperature. The objective of this work was determining the amount of energy that can be stored, and the power that can be generated by using paraffin wax. The setup of the experimental work for this project was consisting of a wax chamber, corrugated steel plates, and gaskets compressed within two plexiglass frames with an inlet and outlet. Tap water was used the medium of transferring thermal energy, and a JULABO heating unit was used to generate enough thermal energy for the steel plates. PCM was used to absorb the energy and transfer it to the cold water during the PCM transformation. A normal faucet was to provide cool enough water to lower the temperature within the system initiating the liquid to solid phase transition. Hoses was used to connect the main TES unit, JULABO unit, and faucet, as well as allowing flow throughout the system. Experiential work and calculation model results shows that the energy recovery was effected by flow rates, melting temperatures, and PCM. Other factors were considered in this work including mass, volume, density, specific heat, latency, turbulence flow, Reynolds number, limitations, and factor of safety. The results of this work can be used to get useful energy especially in isolated location such as desert, ships in occasion, and military locations.


Population exposure to diagnostic and therapeutic ionising radiation is likely to increase worldwide, and this has raised concerns about the stochastic effects of low doses of radiation exposure. The present study was aimed to study the incidence of Chromosomal Aberrations (CAs) in patients exposed to low doses of X-rays during diagnostic interventional radiological procedures. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from 11 individuals who had received low doses of X-rays during cerebral angiography, and DNA damage was measured by the formation of micronuclei (MN), CAs and comet assay. The results show that the frequency of DNA damage, scored as tail length in comets, MN and CAs, increased significantly (P < 0.01) in the samples collected after exposure (2 h and 24 h) when compared with those prior to exposure. However, the observed DNA damage was reduced at 24 h post exposure when compared with those at 2 h. This suggests that the CAs may be eliminated upon cell division, and it is only in rare cases that the accumulation of CAs may pose a risk for stochastic effects. Furthermore, the induced aberration frequency showed an inter-individual variation and repair ability when the cell cycle progressed.


When the possibility of fusion as an energy source for electricity generation was realized in the 1950s, understanding of the plasma state was primitive. The fusion goal has been paced by, and has stimulated, the development of plasma physics. Our understanding of complex, nonlinear processes in plasmas is now mature. We can routinely produce and manipulate 100 million degree plasmas with remarkable finesse, and we can identify a path to commercial fusion power. The international experiment, ITER, will create a burning (self-sustained) plasma and produce 500 MW of thermal fusion power. This talk will summarize the progress in fusion research to date, and the remaining steps to fusion power.


The objective of the study was to compare the effect of 2 free serum chemically defined media, synthetic oviduct fluid medium (SOF) and optimized simple potassium medium (KSOM) on embryo development of in vitro-produced embryos. Bovine ovaries were collected from a local abattoir. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COC) were obtained by follicular aspiration of 3- to 6-mm follicles and in vitro-matured in TCM-199 for 24 h at 39°C, 5% CO2, and high humidity. After IVM, COC were co-incubated with sperm at a concentration of 1.5 × 106 spermatozoa per mL in TALP medium for 18 h at 39°C, 5% CO2, and high humidity. Presumptive zygotes were randomly assigned to SOF (n = 312) or KSOM (n = 290) media, both supplemented with essential and nonessential amino acids plus 0.6% BSA. Zygotes were cultured at 39°C, 5% CO2, 5% O2, 90% N2, and high humidity for 9 days. Cleavage rate was evaluated on Day 2 (Day 0 = day of insemination) and the number of blastocysts and hatched blastocysts were recorded on Days 8 and 9. Expanded blastocysts from Day 8 (n = 45/per culture medium) were fixed and stained with bisbenzimide (Hoechst 33242), and the total number of embryonic nuclei was counted by fluorescence microscopy (Optiphot, Nikon, Tokyo, Japan). The study was conducted in 6 replicates for embryo development assessment and 3 replicates for embryonic nuclei counting. Data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test and Student's t-test. The percentage of presumptive zygotes to develop into 2 to 4 cells (22.4 v. 24.2%) or > 4 cells (47.7 v. 53.4%) did not differ (P > 0.05) between SOF and KSOM on Day 2, but total embryo cleavage ≥ 2 cells was greater (P < 0.05) in KSOM (76.8%) than in SOF (68.5%). However, the percentage of blastocysts developed on Day 8 and 9 was greater (P < 0.05) for zygotes cultured in SOF (22.1 and 25.6%) than for those cultured in KSOM (15.1 and 18.9%). Furthermore, the percentages of hatched blastocysts on Day 8 and 9 were also greater (P < 0.05) for zygotes cultured in SOF (18.8 and 36.2%) than for those cultured in KSOM (4.7 and 12.5%). In addition, expanded blastocysts developed in SOF had higher total mean number of embryonic nuclei than those developed in KSOM (P < 0.05; 128.8 ± 7.5 v. 84.3 ± 8.9, respectively). In conclusion, the use of SOF resulted in significantly greater percentage of blastocysts and hatched blastocysts compared with KSOM. Additionally, expanded blastocysts developed in SOF displayed a higher number of cells. This study was supported by Convenio Desempeno en Investigacion (2007-DGI-CDA-04), Universidad Catolica de Temuco and DiD-UAcH: S-2009-26.


AbstractThe visual art which is commented by the visual art teachers to help processing of the visual culture is important. In this study it is tried to describe the effect of visual culture based on the usual aesthetic experiences to be included in the learning process art education. The action research design, which is a qualitative study, is conducted in this research. The study is conducted with the 12 pre-service teachers of Pamukkale University Faculty of Education -Department of Fine Arts Education, Program in Art Crafts Education. The data have been obtained through observation, interview forms and document analysis. The data are analyzed by using content analysis. As a result of the study it is observed that the critically cogitation skills provided that to be aware of the visual culture analyzes, in terms of the visual objects which included the apprehend series and to develop the pluralistic perspective that has got not only meaning in visible. As a consequence, Pre-service teachers have found that the analyzing of the visual culture and the learning area which included in education programs and to make more conscious choices in art and cultural events.Key WordsVisual Art Education, Visual Culture, Visual Culture Education.In our era, there is a period in which there is a postmodern expression getting common in every part of life. Especially it is observed that expressions, strategies and politics about post-modern and postmodern pedagogy are getting widespread. In this spread while art is tend to focus on differences and variations in creating hypothetical fundamentals (Eker & Seylan, 2005), education focuses on how to structure, how to live, how to listen and how to learn knowledge by removing it from being only a set of visual proposals (Kale, 2002). In the base of both fields post-modern understanding individualism and identity concepts are emphasized more and they head for creating a human being who is based on the approach of self-assertion, developing a personality in different identities and being tolerated against other identities (Gudjons, 1993). Therefore, roles of art education and art educators are highly affected by this approach. It is suggested that art lessons particularly should take place in creating, spreading and adopting visual culture. Consequently, unless art educators take a defensive role, it is pointed out that they have the opportunity to contribute to the globalization of culture by taking a constructive role (Duncum, 2000).According to Barnard (2002) it is a stubborn fact that a human-specific communication way, cultural expression, is as important as language. That is because every age creates a human type suitable for its own structure and within that human creates a culture suitable for its own structure (Gencaydin, 1995). What is the common culture of our age? It is easy to answer this question when we glance at around us. Our environment is full of various and complicated visual images. In today's world predomination of media such as photography, cinema, television and internet lead to the rise of visual culture (Bulbul, 2010). Our common culture has become a product of what we watch (Barnard). With the rapid development of technology first the camera and then cinema and television which determine animated images were invented; therefore, the world has gone into a period in which "visual images culture" flows at a rate that can be explained by its own rules (Parsa, 2007). It is observed that in the last 40 years electronic images and in the last 10 years numeric based computer images have covered all areas of life (Parsa, 2007). Nowadays, from occupation to art, amateurism to professionalism, individual to government, every level of visual production and stocking is possible (Karadag, 2004). When the images are in the centre, it is observed that eye-centered societies are composed (Parsa, 2007). Also in daily life almost in all corners, building entrances, subways, shops and parks optical electronic eyes are placed and they observe everything. …


This thesis aims to improve the understanding of the factors that determine the performance of baghouses used for milk powder collection. The research focuses specifically on the similarities and differences between milk powder collection and other common baghouse applications. The thesis also aims to demonstrate the value of recent developments in computational fluid dynamics in developing predictive models of baghouse performance. It is hoped that the findings of the thesis may find application in the New Zealand dairy industry, where such baghouses are commonly used to collect milk powder after spray drying. The effect of operating temperature and humidity on the performance of baghouses was investigated by examining both the forward filtration process and pulse cleaning process. Forward filtration was examined in a series of bench scale experiments, then scaled up to the pilot scale to confirm the findings. The effect of humidity on the pulsing performance was then investigated at the pilot scale. The importance of pulse system design was investigated at the pilot scale in a separate set of experiments. Pulse nozzle position, pulse pressure, and pulse duration were varied and the effect on the baghouse pressure differentials was measured. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) filter model designed for membrane filtration was adapted with some success to simulate a milk powder baghouse. The model was successful in predicting the length of the low pressure zone at the top of the bag, and the general trends in overpressure associated with changes to the pulse system geometry. The model was not successful in predicting the acceleration of the filter bag during the pulse. The model was used to simulate both forward filtration and pulsing, to extend the results of the experimental investigation. The effects of changes in the pulse nozzle height, pulse nozzle diameter, and pulse pressure were simulated, as well as the effect of gravitational settling during forward filtration, to extend the results of the previous experiments. There is a clear opportunity remaining for further work to extend the basic model developed here and to adapt the model to simulate large industrial baghouses. Experiments on the bench scale and pilot scale indicated that increased cohesive forces between particles improve the performance of milk powder baghouses by lowering the resistance of the filter cake during forward filtration and aiding cake removal during pulse cleaning. Under the conditions typical of industrial milk powder baghouses, cohesive forces are governed primarily by liquid bridging between particles, due to melted fat (particularly at high temperatures) and softened lactose (at high humidity levels). As a range of milk powders with different compositions are produced commercially, the relative importance of lactosebased and fat-based cohesion differs between powder types. Cohesion promotes the formation of porous structures in the filter cake, improving the cake permeability. In skim milk powder (SMP), particle cohesion is dominated by softened lactose, and is highly moisture dependent. In the bench scale experiments conducted here, increasing the relative humidity from 6% to 17% decreased the specific cake resistance from 1.69×10 9 m.kg -1 to 8.23×10 8 m.kg -1 , and decreased the proportion of powder adhering to the filter from 14% of the total supplied powder to 3%. The combination of these effects decreased the total resistance over the filter from 1.09×10 9 m -1 to 1.89×10 8 m -1 , an 83% reduction. The low deposition at high humidity suggested that the porous cake structure formed at high humidity levels was fragile, so that deposited particles were prone to subsequent dislodgement, especially in areas where the shear velocity near the filter surface was high. In pilot scale experiments, the porous cake structure formed at high humidity was more easily removed from the filter bag, resulting in more effective pulse cleaning. It was concluded that particle cohesion promoted cake filtration over depth filtration, as particles tended to adhere to the cake surface immediately upon contact. As depth filtered particles are more difficult to remove, the shift toward cake filtration at high humidity improved the pulse cleaning performance. A high-fat milk protein concentrate (MPC) powder was also filtered on the bench scale apparatus. Particle cohesion in the MPC powder was dominated by liquid fat, and showed a clear dependence on temperature but not on humidity. Increasing the temperature from 30°C to 90°C caused the specific cake resistance of the MPC to decrease from 1.06×10 8 m -1 to 3.94×10 7 m -1 , a 63% decrease. The deposition of MPC powder was unaffected by either temperature or humidity. Gravitational settling of particles in large baghouses was found to produce significant variations in the properties of the filter cake throughout the baghouse. Experimental results with the pilot scale baghouse found a strong decreasing trend in the particle size with increasing height in the baghouse, with the mean particle size decreasing from 117 μm at the bottom of the baghouse to only 31 μm near the top of the filter bag. The filter cake thickness also decreased sharply with height. Results from the CFD simulations indicated that in the pilot scale baghouse particles larger than 120 μm in diameter tend to fall out of the air flow and collect in the bottom of the baghouse, instead of depositing on the filter. While industrial baghouses tend to have a higher elutriation velocity than the pilot scale baghouse used in this study, the large size of industrial baghouses provides ample opportunity for particles to segregate on the basis of size. In addition, bench scale results indicated that high air velocities near the filter surface may cause particles to rebound from the filter. This may occur in industrial baghouses in the region near the inlet, where the air velocity is highest. The reverse pressure differential induced in the filter bag by a cleaning pulse was found to increase with distance from the cell plate. Positioning the nozzle too close to the bag opening created a low pressure zone just beneath the cell plate, where the pressure remained lower inside the bag than outside throughout the pulse. This may lead to poor cleaning at the top of the bag. In the pilot scale baghouse, positioning the nozzle at least 0.7 m from the bag opening eliminated the low pressure zone. The optimum distance of 0.7 m is is dependent on the nozzle type and bag diameter, but can be directly applied to recent industrial baghouse designs in the NZ dairy industry, which have the same nozzle type and bag diameter as the pilot scale baghouse. The design of the pulse cleaning system is important in achieving good baghouse performance. Increasing the pulse tank pressure on the pilot scale baghouse from 3.5 bar to 6.5 bar caused a 30% reduction in the forward pressure differential after the pulse, while decreasing the pulse pressure below 3.5 bar caused the pressure differentials to increase indefinitely. Altering the nozzle position had no effect on the overall pressure differentials, but did alter the local acceleration at different points on the filter bag during a pulse. CFD simulations indicated that decreasing the distance between the nozzle and the bag opening from 0.7 m to 0.1 m increased the overpressure at the bottom of the bag from 770 Pa to 3500 Pa, but this was offset by the appearance of the low pressure zone at the top of the bag as mentioned above. CFD simulations indicated that the diameter of the pulse nozzle altered both the mean bag overpressure generated by the pulse, and the distribution of the overpressure over the bag surface, with the low pressure zone at the top of the bag becoming longer at large nozzle diameters. The pulse duration was found to be unimportant, with experiments on the pilot scale baghouse finding that this had no effect on either the overall baghouse pressure differentials or the length of the low pressure zone at the top of the bag. The project has extended the understanding of milk powder baghouse performance by relating the moisture-dependent properties of lactose and the temperature-dependent melting of dairy fats to baghouse performance. The project has also provided a useful design tool in the form of the CFD model. The project demonstrates an opportunity for further CFD research into baghouse design, as the basic model developed here could now be modified to directly simulate large industrial baghouses. It is hoped that the results from this thesis will find application in the New Zealand Dairy Industry.


The hypothesis that major Mycenaean settlements were devastated by earthquakes at the end of the Late Bronze Age is based on archaeological observations. To test this hypothesis with engineering seismological methods, the local site conditions and their influence on earthquake ground motions should be known. We used active and passive seismic measurements to deduce earthquake site effects at the Mycenaean citadels of Tiryns and Midea in the Argive basin on the eastern Peloponnese. At 182 station locations and with six arrays, we recorded ambient noise data from which Rayleigh‐wave ellipticity curves and dispersion functions were calculated, respectively. In addition, local earthquake data from a nine‐month deployment of 10 stations were used to calculate standard spectral ratios. 1D models were used to calculate amplification functions for the citadels and their surroundings. Although the shallow double limestone knoll of Tiryns, which contained the Mycenaean palace and carries a massive Cyclopean fortification wall, shows only small site amplifications below a factor of 2 at frequencies between 2 and 10 Hz, the soft sediment in the surrounding area where the peasant residences were located has amplifications of 4–6. At the Midea citadel, erected on a 270‐m‐high hill, the topography results in ground‐motion amplifications of a factor of 2–3 at frequencies between 1 and 3 Hz.


The Flood-Control Channels Research Program is being conducted at the US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station to develop systematic methods for design of stable channels for small streams. These systematic methods are needed in the planning and preliminary design stages of local flood-control projects with time and cost constraints. In the detailed design phase of flood-control projects, more comprehensive techniques, including numerical and physical modeling, are currently used. However, these methods are often too time-consuming for analyzing the feasibility of several alternative designs or for evaluating the feasibility of a channelization project in general. An analytical approach is being developed that determines dependent design variables of width, slope, and depth from the independent variables of discharge, sediment inflow, and bed material composition. It involves the solution of flow resistance and sediment transport equations, leaving one dependent variable optional. Minimum stream power is used as a third equation for an optional fixed solution.


BACKGROUND & AIMS
Gastrointestinal (GI) and liver diseases inflict a heavy economic burden. Although the burden is considerable, current and accessible information on the prevalence, morbidity, and cost is sparse. This study was undertaken to estimate the economic burden of GI and liver disease in the United States for use by policy makers, health care providers, and the public.

METHODS
Data were extracted from a number of publicly available and proprietary national databases to determine the prevalence, direct costs, and indirect costs for 17 selected GI and liver diseases. Indirect cost calculations were purposefully very conservative. These costs were compared with National Institutes of Health (NIH) research expenditures for selected GI and liver diseases.

RESULTS
The most prevalent diseases were non-food-borne gastroenteritis (135 million cases/year), food-borne illness (76 million), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD; 19 million), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS; 15 million). The disease with the highest annual direct costs in the United States was GERD ($9.3 billion), followed by gallbladder disease ($5.8 billion), colorectal cancer ($4.8 billion), and peptic ulcer disease ($3.1 billion). The estimated direct costs for these 17 diseases in 1998 dollars were $36.0 billion, with estimated indirect costs of $22.8 billion. The estimated direct costs for all digestive diseases were $85.5 billion. Total NIH research expenditures were $676 million in 2000.

CONCLUSIONS
GI and liver diseases exact heavy economic and social costs in the United States. Understanding the prevalence and costs of these diseases is important to help set priorities to reduce the burden of illness.


Background: Crossing the ankles in the sitting position has no effect on blood pressure (BP), but BP increases when legs are crossed at the knee level. The physiological mechanism responsible for this BP increase is a higher cardiac output (CO), but not a higher total peripheral resistance (TPR). Objective: The purpose of our study was to determine the effect and physiological mechanism of crossing the ankle over the knee on BP. Methods: Finger BP was measured continuously and noninvasively by the use of the Nexfin monitor by one trained investigator. Twenty five participants crossed their ankle over the knee with the lateral malleolus on the suprapatellar bursa in the sitting position. Differences in systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), mean BP (MAP), heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), CO and TPR were determined in the crossed position versus feet flat on the floor. Results: Except TPR, all hemodynamic parameters were significantly higher with the ankle crossed over the knee versus the uncrossed position: SBP 11.4 ± 5.3 mmHg (mean ± SD) (9.2–13.6; 95% CI), DBP 3.8 ± 2.5 mmHg (2.8 – 4.9), MAP 7.0 ± 3.9 mmHg (5.4 – 8.6), HR 1.7 ± 3.2 beats/min (0.4 – 3.0), SV 5.7 ± 3.7 ml (4.2 - 7.3), CO 0.5 ± 0.3 l/min (0.4 – 0.7). Conclusion: Our study shows that ankle crossing over the knee causes increases in BP, CO and SV, while TPR does not change. The working mechanism for the BP increase when the ankle is crossed over the knee seems to be comparable with the working mechanism of the BP increase when legs are crossed at knee level. All persons who measure BP should be aware of the influence of leg position and instruct patients to keep their feet flat on the floor during BP measurements. The position of legs should be mentioned in all guidelines and publications regarding BP.


This dissertation presents an investigation into two so-called live art works – Ugly girl at the rugby (1998) and Chandelier (2001-2002) – by the contemporary South African artist Steven Cohen (1962-). These works are explored with reference to the manner in which Cohen (as self-declared queer Jewish freak) uses performance art as a form of activism in order to expose practices of marginalisation and suppression (oppression) of non-normative or so-called deviant subject positions in terms of gender, race and ethnicity. The analysis of artworks is guided by the discourse of the carnavalesque and performative conceptualisations of gender with particular emphasis on Cohen"s use of drag as contemporary form of masquerade in order to propose an alternative subject position. The argument is as follows: that Cohen, by setting up an extreme alternative to normative identity constructs, manages to destabilise existing hierarchies that are structured according to binaries as these exist in spaces (such as a rugby stadium and a squatter camp) in the South African context. This destabilising of binary hierarchies gives rise to the argument that the symbolically encoded nature of spaces known for associations of suppression, exclusion and marginalisation are wrought open so that alternative meanings can come into being by activating these spaces as multifaceted and chronotopic constructs. The conclusion is that Cohen contributes profoundly towards the destabilisation of identities and in this way also helps to propose invigorating and fresh views of gender, race and ethnicity in a contemporary South African situation.


Interfaces are among the most important yet least understood components of a composite system. Creating a biological interface between dissimilar tissues or between a biomaterial and surrounding environment is very challenging. It requires precise understanding of the sequence of events occurring at the interface at molecular and cellular level. Specific cell membrane receptor–protein interaction for example dictates specific cellular responses. Researchers are often required to design and deliver composite biomaterials that are capable of integration with biological tissues. This integration can yield functional tissue equivalents that could be useful as biomedical devices or drug/protein/cell delivery vehicles or tissue engineering scaffolds. In composites, the interface could be the surface, zone of compositional and structural variation, or zone of property gradients. This chapter therefore covers in-depth interfaces in composites, the methodology of interface examinations, the state-of-art of methods used to 'talk' to living organisms and interfaces of clinical significance. A step-by-step preparation of an example of smart composites proposed as bone adhesives/cements has then been described. Finally advances and challenges will be discussed at the end of this chapter.


We find and investigate the effect of an anomalous increase in the relative dielectric permittivity of a model composite dielectric consisting of a binder (paraffin) and a filler (100 nm particles of technical carbon). It is shown that the relative dielectric permittivity increases by more than 5 times compared with the estimated value for the mixture. The model was developed on the basis of the tendency of the conducting carbon nanoparticles to aggregate into electric dipoles preserving the anomalously large permittivity of the composite. It is shown that the effect depends on the preparation technology. If the melt solidification occurs under ultrasound vibrations the effect decreases by a factor of 3. The proposed model can be successfully used to develop space oriented composites because they should have enhanced conductivity combined with the low relative dielectric permittivity.


Purpose: The paper aims to present the results of the studies on the impact associated with the membership of the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) countries in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on their economic security, especially in financial terms. Design/Methodology/Approach: The Three Seas Initiative was established in 2016 and is just developing its identity. Its future and possibilities of achieving set objectives will significantly depend on the economic capacity of countries, their stability and economic development, and their financial security. The IMF acts to benefit its members' financial security, especially in crises, in various manners. Countries can extend possibilities of obtaining resources by increasing their participation in the organization's decision-making process, and it depends on their financial capacity and decisions made by the country authorities. The research methods used herein primarily comprise the analysis of the IMF's documents and the 3SI and analyze statistical data. Findings: The 3SI countries do not have a strong position in the IMF, and stronger possibilities of influencing this institution's policy exist solely due to the countries' membership in the European Union. The IMF engaged financially in the region to a minimal extent since the countries' security was basically ensured. However, it was active by providing support in counseling, technical assistance, and participation in country authorities' reforms. Practical implications: The paper presents possibilities of cooperation of both parties – the 3SI countries and the IMF in economic security, both in the times of stable economic situation and in economic crises such as e.g., resulting from the global pandemic SARS-CoV-2. Originality/value: Original research.


Graphene was synthesized through chemical cleavage followed by reduction process and through liquid-phase exfoliation methods. The characteristics of synthesized graphene were investigated by Raman spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, XRD and UV-Visible spectrophotometry. It was found that Graphene Oxide (GO) synthesized by modified Hummer's method had carboxylic acid, hydroxyl, and ether groups confirming that graphite was successfully oxidized. The result also showed that graphene oxide consisted of 12 layers and the layer distance was in the range of 0.67–0.72 nm. In liquid-phase exfoliation method, graphene sheets were synthesized by mixing graphite with naphthalene and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) followed by sonication. The results indicated that the inter layer spacing of graphite was expanded from 0.3356 to 0.3364 nm. The highest graphene concentration was up to 3.26 mg/mL and the yield was 54.34%.


Objective To compare population-level trends in 30-day case fatality following incident myocardial infarction (MI) in people with diabetes and those without diabetes. Methods We identified all hospitalised incident MIs in 35–84 year olds from the Western Australian Data Linkage System for 1998–2010, stratified by diabetes status. Crude and age- and sex-standardised 30-day case fatality were estimated, and age- and sex-adjusted trends were calculated from logistic regression. We calculated the trend in risk of 30-day death associated with diabetes from multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for demographics, comorbidities and MI type. Results 26 610 hospitalised incident MI cases were identified, 24.8% of whom had diabetes. The prevalence of heart failure fell in people with diabetes, concurrent with increasing chronic kidney disease and prior coronary heart disease and increasing levels of evidence-based therapies. Case fatality in people with diabetes fell from 11.65%, in 1998–2001, to 3.96% by 2008–2010. Age- and sex-standardised case fatality declined at a greater rate in those with diabetes (−10.6%/year, 95% CI −12.8% to −8.2%) compared to non-diabetics (−6.9%/year, 95% CI −8.3% to −5.3%; interaction p=0.005). The adjusted risk of 30-day death after incident MI was 1.23 times higher in diabetics than non-diabetics in 1998–2001 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.50), but was lower by 2008–2010 (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.88). Conclusions Greater improvements in 30-day case fatality following incident MI in people with diabetes during the 13-year study period has led to diabetes no longer being an independent predictor of early death following incident MI by 2008–2010.


The monolayer collapse behavior of n-hexadecanol/dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) was investigated in this study at the air/water interface at 37 °C. Surface pressure variations with time for the mixed monolayers of DPPC with 20 mol% and 50 mol% n-hexadecanol at corresponding collapse points were recorded by a Langmuir trough system. In addition, the interaction of n-hexadecanol with a pure DPPC monolayer was identified by fluorescence microscopy (FM). The results demonstrated distinct differences between these systems; according to our observation, the higher the ratio of n-hexadecanol to DPPC, the more nucleation domains can be induced. The FM images demonstrated that pronounced domain formation was associated with a longer relaxation time of the collapsed DPPC and DPPC/n-hexadecanol monolayers, and the presence of n-hexadecanol appeared to enhance the relaxation processes. The liposome was prepared by the thin-film hydration method. The average diameter of DPPC and DPPC/n-hexadecanol liposomes was investigated by dynamic light scattering. It is shown that the diameter of DPPC liposome with n-hexadecanol is smaller than pure DPPC liposome at the initial state. After 24 hours, DPPC/n-hexadecanol liposome became larger than pure DPPC liposome and lasted for the next four days. The effects of a greater ratio of n-hexadecanol did not play an important role in DPPC liposome formation based on our dynamic light scattering analysis. Our result demonstrated that n-hexadecanol might affect the DPPC liposome stability. The increased ratio of n-hexadecanol in DPPC liposomes could only a play a minor role in DPPC liposome fusion.


In 2018, the editors of the Journal of Economic Perspectives invited faculty to send us examples of JEP articles that they had found useful for teaching. We received 250 responses. On the JEP website, we have created a landing page ( https://www.aeaweb.org/journals/jep/classroom ) that organizes the recommended articles into 33 categories. If you click on any of the categories at that link, you will see a list of JEP papers that were recommended by faculty members for classroom use for that category, presented in reverse date order. Each paper is listed with a hyperlink to its article page on the JEP website. In this article, I offer some thoughts about how this exercise was carried out, along with its strengths and weaknesses. Although we make no pretense of presenting a complete syllabus for any specific course, we offer the milder hope that these recommendations from peers might suggest some additional readings for your students.


Background: Poland is setting up its first regional ECMO program and relies heavily on the use of simulation in testing processes and training clinicians.1 As ECMO is a complex and expensive procedure, we developed an advanced ECMO simulator for high-fidelity medical simulation training.2–6 It can be used to modify any type of full-body patient simulator and allows for the creation of an unlimited number of scenarios. Methods: The system is equipped with an electronic core control unit (CCU) (Figure 1), a set of synthetic valves, pressure sensors, and hydraulic pumps. The major functions of the CCU are to stabilize the hydraulic system (flow of simulated blood, differential pressures in the arterial and venous lines), providing instant information about the system to the user via a display. Electric valves and sensors provide 'on-the-fly' information to the CCU about the actual system's status and it can be made to respond to specific instructions imitating the physiological circulatory system and simulating several scenarios (i.e. bleeding, low pressure, occlusion, reaction to proper and incorrect pharmacological treatment). It can be connected to an ECMO machine to act like the human body during ECMO run. Silicone tubes (modified polyethylene) that can be realistically cannulated using ultrasound imaging represent the artificial vessels. The CCU is made of electronic components that can be integrated to customize any mannequin as shown in Figure 1. The hardware includes both digital and analogue components that are controlled by a software run on a computer connected to the CCU via a serial port (RS232) (Figure 2). The software allows for the visualization of measurements obtained from the sensors and the control of the pumps and valves via electronic controllers. The controllers affect the ECMO circuit simulated blood flow, and hence the readings from the ECMO machine sensors, to recreate various clinical scenarios.Figure 1. The modified patient simulator with circulatory loop prepared for VA ECMO cannulation and CCU (core control unit) for high-fidelity simulations. Figure 2. The ECMO simulator architecture. Results: Every component used can be easily replaced. The total cost of the simulator modification, excluding the cost of the computer or future mobile device, is approximately 200 USD, and the consumable parts cost about 20 USD. It has been used to help simulate successfully a range of scenarios.1 Although the system is currently tethered, the next prototype will include a wireless controller so that the system can be controlled from a mobile application. Conclusions: This advanced simulator allows for unlimited possibilities with regard to creating clinical scenarios. Our ambition is to become a reference ECMO training center in Poland so that our high-fidelity ECMO simulator can be used to its full potential and for the benefit of more clinicians and their patients around Poland.


Ultimately, this essay will conclude that a private, ad hoc dispute system design process did lead to the insertion of class action waivers in mandatory pre-dispute consumer arbitration clauses. In-house and outside counsel certainly played key roles in initiating this process, but it is unclear that any individual lawyers could claim credit or responsibility as "designers." The representatives of dispute resolution organizations, meanwhile, played supporting roles-as providers of information and as amici in Supreme Court litigation. The essay will consider whether dispute resolution professionals could have managed their role in the process differently-and if so, why they would have managed it differently.

This essay also concludes that the momentum generated by the CFPB's regulatory proposals has created another opportunity for dispute resolution organizations and professionals to play a role in designing a system for the resolution of disputes between consumers and businesses. However, the appropriate role played by these dispute resolution organizations and professionals depends upon the role played by the CFPB, particularly in light of the recent election. If the CFPB survives and acts as a third party, committed to hearing and considering the concerns of all stakeholders and acting in the public interest, and if the agency retains its independence and final decision-making authority over the dispute system's design, then experienced dispute resolution organizations and professionals should be able to play a very valuable dual role as both designers and stakeholders. If the CFPB does not survive or does not retain its independence and decision- making authority, then playing a dual role becomes more problematic. It will then be important to identify those dispute resolution organizations that either do not rely on referrals from corporate repeat players for their survival or those that do rely on such referrals but have nonetheless persisted in working to protect the integrity of the dispute resolution field. These are the organizations that will need to step up and play a design role for the benefit of the dispute resolution field and, even more importantly, for the benefit of our public justice system and our larger polity.


Who is God? How does God act in our lives? How are we to act as God's faithful people? Joshua, Judges, and Ruth represent a chorus of voices reflecting on Israel's earliest days in its land. In Joshua, God empowers an obedient Israel to conquer the promised land. In Judges, Israel's faithlessness and God's wrath lead to a downward spiral of sin, subjugation, and social disintegration. Ruth narrates a story of divine blessing worked out through human loyalty. Books in the Westminster Bible Companion series assist laity in their study of the Bible as a guide to Christian faith and practice. Each volume explains the biblical book in its original historical context and explores its significance for faithful living today. These books are ideal for individual study and for Bible study classes and groups.


One of the key innovations of the 1970s regulatory environmental revolution was the provision for citizen enforcement of regulatory standards. This innovation upset the previous bipolar regulatory model, which was a two-way negotiation between the regulated industries and the (often captive) regulatory agencies. By removing agency enforcement discretion as a means of underenforcing statutory norms, the citizens suit brought a new constituency to the regulatory bargaining table. The citizen suit had the intended effect of implementing a regime of full enforcement of the new environmental norms.But the revolutionary effect of the newly minted citizen suit was not limited to full enforcement of environmental norms. By allowing environmental interests to bypass the agency regulatory process and proceed directly to court to enforce statutory standards, the citizen suit allowed citizens to play a primary role in the development of environmental jurisprudence, bypassing the administrative rulemaking process and resulting judicial deference to agency interpretations. In a radical shift from the classic administrative law model, where the responsible agency answered questions of first impression and review of its answers was highly deferential, the citizen suit provided nongovernmental organizations to opportunity to develop their own interpretations of the environmental norms and test these interpretations in enforcement actions in the courts as a matter of first impression. Citizen enforcers thus necessarily took on the role of citizen regulators as well, developing interpretations of statutory standards and enforcing these citizen-generated interpretations directly against violators before judges untainted by regulatory accommodations negotiated in a prior rulemaking process. This article examines the role of citizen enforcement litigation in the development of the Clean Water Act law and implementation of the Clean Water Act regulatory scheme. The essay will focus on four examples where citizen enforcement litigation under the Clean Water Act had the effect of initiating the regulatory process, drawing responses from both EPA and the Congress. These case studies will include enforcement litigation brought against underenforced Clean Water Act regulation of pesticide application, water transfers, land application of CAFO wastes, and sport shooting ranges.


Artist Isidore Konti, born in Vienna Austria in 1862 and came to the United States in 1890. created sculptures that adorned the side Cascades.  Small sculpture groups sat beside two large sculptures.
The large sculptures represented the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A powerful male figure with a soaring eagle at his feet represented the Atlantic Ocean.  The Pacific was shown as a woman with an albatross at her feet.  Konti's sculptures symbolized the importance of the Louisiana Purchase in connecting the U.S. from the Atlantic Ocean to Pacific Ocean.


We study a government program in Uganda designed to help the poor and unemployed become self-employed artisans, increase incomes, and thus promote social stability. Young adults in Uganda's conflict-affected north were invited to form groups and submit grant proposals for vocational training and business start-up. Funding was randomly assigned among screened and eligible groups. Treatment groups received unsupervised grants of $382 per member. Grant recipients invest some in skills training but most in tools and materials. After four years, half practice a skilled trade. Relative to the control group, the program increases business assets by 57%, work hours by 17%, and earnings by 38%. Many also formalize their enterprises and hire labor. We see no effect, however, on social cohesion, antisocial behavior, or protest. Effects are similar by gender but are qualitatively different for women because they begin poorer (meaning the impact is larger relative to their starting point) and because women's work and earnings stagnate without the program but take off with it. The patterns we observe are consistent with credit constraints.


In this work in progress we consider the challenges of inter - organizational collaboration in building projects to support higher quality and lower prices. The framework of Carlile (2004) is used to identify and categorize the current situation and needs of different knowledge processes: transfer, translation and transforming. We discuss recent and ongoing initiatives at various levels within the building industry (government, industry, company). The initiatives are discussed from the viewpoint of an engineering consultancy company. The study reveals that a more integrated process across partners in the building industry provides improved quality. However, new needs arise and development of new knowledge processes is required to exchange, understand and negotiate the knowledge needed in closer collaboration. Development of these knowledge processes is complicated and there is a need for both industry- wide and more local steps to initiate it. Not at least due to the fact that the internal management of knowledge in the organizations involved is confronted.


Early in the 1920s, the New York Giants sent a scout to watch a young Cuban play for Foster's American Giants, a baseball club in the Negro Leagues. During one at-bat this talented slugger lined a ball so hard that the rightfielder was able to play it off the top of the fence and throw Christobel Torrienti out at first base. The scout liked what he saw, but was disappointed in the player's appearance. "He was a light brown," recalled one of Torrienti's teammates, "and would have gone up to the major leagues, but he had real rough hair." Such was life behind the color line, the unofficial boundary that prevented hundreds of star-quality athletes from playing big-league baseball. When Only the Ball Was White was first published in 1970, Satchel Paige had not yet been inducted into the Hall of Fame and there was a general ignorance even among sports enthusiasts of the rich tradition of the Negro Leagues. Few knew that during the 1930s and '40s outstanding black teams were playing regularly in Yankee Stadium and Brooklyn's Ebbets Field. And names like Cool Papa Bell, Rube Foster, Judy Johnson, Biz Mackey, and Buck Leonard would bring no flash of smiling recognition to the fan's face, even though many of these men could easily have played alongside Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, Hack Wilson, Lou Gehrig-and shattered their records in the process. Many baseball pundits now believe, for example, that had Josh Gibson played in the major leagues, he would have surpassed Babe Ruth's 714 home runs before Hank Aaron had even hit his first. And the great Dizzy Dean acknowledged that the best pitcher he had ever seen was not Lefty Grove or Carl Hubbell, but rather "old Satchel Paige, that big lanky colored boy." In Only the Ball Was White, Robert Peterson tells the forgotten story of these excluded ballplayers, and gives them the recognition they were so long denied. Reconstructing the old Negro Leagues from contemporary sports publications, accounts of games in the black press, and through interviews with the men who actually played the game, Peterson brings to life the fascinating period that stretched from shortly after the Civil War to the signing of Jackie Robinson in 1947. We watch as the New York Black Yankees and the Philadelphia Crawfords take the field, look on as the East-West All-Star lineups are announced, and listen as the players themselves tell of the struggle and glory that was black baseball. In addition to these vivid accounts, Peterson includes yearly Negro League standings and an all-time register of players and officials, making the book a treasure trove of baseball information and lore. A monumental and poignant book, Only the Ball Was White reminds us that what was often considered the "Golden Age" of baseball was also the era of Jim Crow. It is a book that must be read by anyone hoping not only to understand the story of baseball, but the story of America.


Urination Behaviour of Non-Lactating Dairy Cows in Late Gestation Offered Fodder Beet and Kale Winter Forages by Lydia Jane Farrell Prediction of nitrogen (N) leaching from urine events using modelling tools such as OVERSEER is important for regulation of dairy farm outputs and practices. Risk of N leaching is greatest during winter, particularly in systems which adopt high stocking densities such as those grazing fodder beet and kale crops. However large prediction errors for leaching values from OVERSEER are recognised, highlighting the need for more quantitative information on urination behaviour of dairy cows grazing winter forages. The study was conducted at Ashley Dene research farm (-43.65 o North, 172.33 o East) using 24 high producing Friesian x Jersey dairy cows fed two diets representative of industry practice. Diet treatments were 10 kg DM of fodder beet with 5.6 kg DM of ryegrass baleage (FB) or 16.4 kg DM of kale with 6.4kg of oat straw (KA) . All cows were fitted with a urine harness for 24 to 48 hours which collected data on number, volume, and timing of urine events. Urine patch areas were estimated using the urine harness data and a calibration curve of urine volume and wetted area in the paddocks being grazed. Urine volumes were similar (27.6 L/cow/day, p=0.988) though behaviour was affected by diet whereby FB cows urinated less frequently (8.42 vs 10.1 events/cow/day for FB and KA respectively, p=0.128) but with more volume per event than KA (3.58 vs 2.71 L/cow/day for FB and KA respectively, p=0.04). On their own, similarity in total volumes (FB vs. KA) could not be explained by intake of water (55 vs. 69 L/cow/day, p<0.001), N (237 vs. 472 g N/cow/day, p<0.001), DM (13.4 vs. 17.1 kg cow/day, p<0.001), potassium (2.7 vs. 2.9 g/cow/day, p=0.055) or sodium (0.53 vs. 0.40 g/cow/day, p<0.001). The urine patch areas on the FB grazing area were smaller at 0.16m than the kale patches at 0.23m which is attributed to differences in paddock surface microtopography. The smaller, more dense deposits of N in urine patches and the stocking rate being three times as great resulted in a higher predicted volume of N leached from the fodder beet paddock at 123 kg/ha


Hybrid cells secreting monoclonal antibodies directed against the haemagglutinin (H) protein of measles virus (Edmonston) were produced by fusion of mouse myeloma cells with spleen cells derived from immunized mice. Measles antibodies secreted by these cells were tested for their ability to react with measles virus in immunoprecipitation experiments and assays of binding, neutralization, haemagglutination inhibition and haemolysin inhibition. On this basis 21 out of 75 hybridomas could be defined and divided into five functional groups with different properties. However, when tested against other measles virus strains, including those isolated from subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) patients, normalized radioimmunoassay (RIA) binding titres showed that the extent to which a given antibody bound could vary greatly with the virus strain examined. Moreover, the biological actions within a group were found to be very heterogeneous, even when high antibody binding titres were observed. These results suggest that different measles virus strains, which are not distinguishable by polyvalent sera, do in fact possess antigenic differences. Furthermore, the functional significance of a given virus epitope may vary from strain to strain. Hybridoma antibodies were also used to demonstrate the occurrence of antigenic changes within the H polypeptide of SSPE virus during the course of a non-productive, persistent infection in vitro.


A comprehensive study of inclusion aggregation and removal
in different bottom gas-stirred ladles has been conducted. The unsteady, three
dimensional, isothermal, multiphase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model
was developed. A ladle with two bottom plugs was used in the study. Effects of plug separation angles (180° and
90°) and argon flow rate combinations (5/5 SCFM, 5/20 SCFM and 20/20 SCFM) were
investigated. The whole study can be divided into two parts: first, the flow
field, slag eye size and wall shear stress have been studied; second, inclusion
aggregation and removal in different ladles have been investigated. In the first
part, argon bubble breakup and coalescence has been considered. The slag eye
size was validated with plant measurement. When the flow rate increases, the size
of slag eye will increase while the wall shear stress increases as well. In the second part, a parametric study of
ladle design and argon flow rate on inclusion aggregation and removal has been
conducted. Turbulence shear collision shows the most dominant effect on
inclusion aggregation. The argon flow rate is positively related to inclusion
aggregation and removal. When the argon flow rate is fixed, a larger plug
separation angle shows higher inclusion aggregation and removal efficiency.


Many of the world's developed economies have introduced, or are planning to introduce, bank bail-in regimes. Both the planned EU resolution regime and the European Stability Mechanism Treaty involve the participation of bank creditors in bearing the costs of bank recapitalization via the bail-in process as one of the (main) mechanisms for restoring a failing bank to health. There is a long list of actual or hypothetical advantages attached to bail-in centred bank recapitalizations. Most importantly the bail-in tool involves replacing the implicit public guarantee, on which fractional reserve banking has operated, with a system of private penalties. The bail-in tool may, indeed, be much superior in the case of idiosyncratic failure. Nonetheless, there is need for a closer examination of the bail-in process, if it is to become a successful substitute to the unpopular bailout approach. This paper discusses some of its key potential shortcomings. It explains why bail-in regimes will fail to eradicate the need for an injection of public funds where there is a threat of systemic collapse, because a number of banks have simultaneously entered into difficulties, or in the event of the failure of a large complex cross-border bank, except in those cases where failure was clearly idiosyncratic.


The traditional model for geospatial crowd sourcing asks the public to use their free time collecting geospatial data for no obvious reward. This model has shown to work very well on projects such as Open Street Map, but comes with some clear disadvantages such as reliance on small communities of 'Neo-geographers' and variability in quality and content of collected data. This project aims at tackling these problems by providing alternative motivation specifically a smartphone based computer game service. Geographical names (vernacular names/ toponyms) have been identified as potential targets as they are difficult to collect on a large scale and easy to collect locally, thus ideal for crowd sourcing. The data set will be a toponyms database provided by the Spanish National Geographic Institute (IGN Spain). A location based game is targeted as it is easy to guide data collection with in-game rewards (prizes, points, badges etc.). Android is chosen for its accessible API and wide use.


This letter reports the application of the scanning heating laser source technique to detect microcracks that may be undetected by conventional methods. In the proposed approach, we monitor changes in the transmitted surface acoustic waves (SAWs) as a heating source is scanned over the crack. The experimental system for microcrack detection by a scanning heating laser source is obtained by exploiting the strong dependence of the transmission efficiency of acoustic pulses on the state of the contacts, whether open or closed, between the crack faces. Microcracks can be detected successfully by confirming the heating position at the point of maximal improvement of the transmission efficiency of the SAWs.


The classic World War II trilogy: 'The finest fictional record of the war produced by a British writer' Anthony Burgess As Rommel advances in wartorn Egypt, the lives of the civilian population come under threat. One such couple are Guy and Harriet Pringle, who have escaped the war in Europe only to find the conflict once more on their doorstep, providing a volatile backdrop to their own personal battles. The civilian world meets the military through the figure of Simon Boulderstone, a young army officer who will witness the tragedy and tension of war on the frontier at first hand. An outstanding author of wartime fiction, Olivia Manning brilliantly evokes here the world of the Levant - Egypt, Jerusalem and Syria - with perception and subtlety, humour and humanity.


The susceptibility of individual synapses to plasticity induction may be influenced by the ability of signaling molecules to move into and out of the head of the dendritic spine. Thus, regulation of protein movement by the spine neck offers a potentially powerful mechanism to control individual synapses. Bloodgood and Sabatini found that diffusional equilibration across the necks of dendritic spines is directly regulated by activity. By combining two-photon microscopy with two-photon laser photoactivation, protein movement was measured across the necks of a large population of spines. A subclass of spines were effectively isolated from the dendrite. Spine compartments have traditionally been treated as static entities, but it now appears that spine-dendrite coupling is strongly dynamic. Diffusion barriers vary considerably over time in a way that reflects the cell's recent history of spiking. B. L. Bloodgood, B. L. Sabatini, Neuronal activity regulates diffusion across the neck of dendritic spines. Science 310, 866-869 (2005). [Abstract] [Full Text]


The effects of Gaussian-beam averaging with various apertures are derived for three-wave mixing in nonlinear two-level media. The model studies the phase transition from plane-wave to pure Gaussian saturation. Applications to phase conjugation, beat-frequency spectroscopy, and laser–optical-bistability instability phenomena are considered. The Gaussian beams are seen to reduce or wash out dynamic Stark splittings observed for plane-wave saturation. For strong saturation, the side-mode gain/absorption coefficient versus detuning yields slightly larger gain for the homogeneously broadened laser instability but substantially curtailed gain for the corresponding absorptive optical-bistability instability.


While first-generation mobile gaze interfaces required special-purpose hardware, recent advances in computational gaze estimation and the availability of sensor-rich and powerful devices is finally fulfilling the promise of pervasive eye tracking and eye-based interaction on off-the-shelf mobile devices. This work provides the first holistic view on the past, present, and future of eye tracking on handheld mobile devices. To this end, we discuss how research developed from building hardware prototypes, to accurate gaze estimation on unmodified smartphones and tablets. We then discuss implications by laying out 1) novel opportunities, including pervasive advertising and conducting in-the-wild eye tracking studies on handhelds, and 2) new challenges that require further research, such as visibility of the user's eyes, lighting conditions, and privacy implications. We discuss how these developments shape MobileHCI research in the future, possibly the next 20 years.


Clinical and medical knowledge evolve and this causes changes in concepts and terms that describe them. The objective of this work is to formally present an ontology-based standard architecture that will be used in the scenario of neurodegeneration research to maintain terminologies and their relations updated and coherent over the time. The proposed structure is composed by three elements that will allow the user to do a list of operations on the terminology resources explicitly contemplated by the Common Terminology Service Release 2 (CTS2).


Optimization of the Front Surface Field (FSF) for IBC cells is important for passivation, lowering series resistance and reducing UV light degradation. This work presents results for optimizing the FSF diffusion from an industrial perspective, focusing on optimizing the process flow to achieve excellent FSF performance, whilst at the same time reducing the number of process steps. The ideal FSF profile is a compromise since a lightly doped deep diffusion reduces recombination losses close the cell surface where the light is captured, whilst increased doping reduces series resistance. This work investigates diffusing the FSF (1) at the beginning, (2) in the middle and (3) towards the end of the IBC process flow. The advantage of the first option is that the diffusion depth can be increased by subsequent thermal steps. However a diffusion barrier is required to protect the FSF throughout the subsequent processing, which increases the number of process steps and results in increased costs. By placing the FSF diffusion later in the process flow it is possible to simplify the process reducing the number of steps. Experimental results show excellent FSF diffusion passivation performance over 156mm, with lifetime values of over 500 μs. Simulations confirm that high current generation can be achieved with a short circuit current of around 39 mA cm.


"Coloured Views" is a comparative and multidisciplinary examination of the motives and methods of New Zealand's urban boosters between 1880 and 1930. It looks at the positive image of the country's cities and towns rendered in the literature and art of the period, and compares it with other British Dominions as well as with America. Such optimistic images were considered vital to urban growth by promoters who were intent on inducing increased immigration, tourism and investment to their cities and towns. In addition to economic motivation, it will also be argued that the boosters in New Zealand were imbued to an unusual degree by dreams of creating an urban utopia in their New World, one that was free from the influences of vices typically associated with the Old World. In examining perceptions of urban New Zealand, this thesis also attempts to revert the imbalance in New Zealand historiography which has generally ignored cities and towns or which has assumed that all debate about them was negative. It undertakes a study of a wide array of promotional sources, including material which has never before been examined, such as motion pictures and foreign language texts. "Coloured Views" attempts to show that cities and towns had their ardent defenders in New Zealand as well as their critics. The study concludes with an examination of modern booster techniques in order to emphasise the topicality of the subject matter.


Over the last decades, phytodepuration has been considered an efficient technology to treat wastewaters. The present study reports a bench scale depuration assay of swine wastewater using Lemna minor. The highest observed growth rate obtained in swine wastewater was 3.1 ± 0.3 gDW m−2 day−1 and the highest nitrogen and phosphorus uptake were 140 mg N m−2 day−1 and 3.47 mg P m−2 day−1, respectively. The chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency in the swine wastewater assay was 58.9 ± 2.0%. Furthermore, the biomass valorisation by anaerobic co-digestion with swine wastewater was assessed. Results showed a clear improvement in specific methane production rate (around 40%) when compared to mono-substrate anaerobic digestion. The highest methane specific production, 131.0 ± 0.8 mL CH4 g−1 chemical oxygen demand, was obtained with a mixture containing 100 g of duckweed per liter of pre-treated swine wastewater. The water-nutrients-energy nexus approach showed to be promising for swine waste management.


Neuropsychiatric diseases represent a major public health burden worldwide; due to gaps in our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of disease, approximately 30% of patients are refractory to treatment. Activation of neuroinflammatory signaling cascades has shown promise as a contributing factor for disease development. This hypothesis is driven in part by an intriguing overlap of symptoms in patients with neuropsychiatric and immunological disorders. Patients with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and autism commonly present with immune dysfunction, while patients with multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis often experience severe mood disturbances. Diversity in presentation of symptoms, however, has posed a research challenge to our mechanistic understanding of this link. In contrast to the complexity of modeling specific diseases, altered sensitivity to stress is a well-documented vulnerability marker across neuropsychiatric disorders. Of relevance to clinical advancement, aspects of stress behavior and physiology can be modeled and measured in animals, where core components of the stress axis are conserved in humans and rodents. Thus, we performed an examination of the neuroinflammatory regulation of stress behavior and physiology. Using a genetic model of stress sensitivity, we report the discovery that antiinflammatory treatment ameliorates hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, identifying the dorsal raphe (DR) as a locus of heightened responsivity. We then demonstrated sex differences in this brain region in response to the stress neuropeptide, corticotropin-releasing factor, suggesting that differences in its responsivity may underlie sex differences in vulnerability to stress-related disorders. Finally, we used a transgenic approach to show that neuroinflammation localized specifically to the DR results in dysregulated stress behavior and physiology through interactions with the serotonergic neurotransmitter system. Overall, this work demonstrates that hyperor hypo-function of the DR, based on genetic susceptibility, sex, or neuroinflammatory insult, can result in altered stress physiology and behavior. Though the DR has previously been identified as a potential locus of dysregulation, here we establish the specific, mechanistic link between risk factors for stress-related disorders. We present evidence of quantitative changes to this brain region and its functional output, and demonstrate that differences in responsivity of the DR may underlie vulnerability to stress-related disorders. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Neuroscience First Advisor Tracy L. Bale


A growing number of international relations scholars argue that intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) promote peace. Existing approach esemphasize IGO membership as an important causal attribute of individual states, much like economic development and regime type. The authors use social network analysis to show that IGO memberships also create a disparate distribution of social power, significantly shaping conflicts between states. Membership partitions states into structurally equivalent clusters and establishes hierarchies of prestige in the international system. These relative positions promote common beliefs and alter the distribution of social power, making certain policy strategies more practical or rational. The authors introduce new IGO relational data and explore the empirical merits of their approach during the period from 1885 to 1992. They demonstrate that conflict is increased by the presence of many other states in structurally equivalent clusters, while large prestige disparities and in-group favoritism decrease it.


In this study, we present the case of a 27-year-old man who experienced obsessive symptoms for over ten years and then underwent treatment focused on reducing feelings of guilt. Although the patient had already received behavioural cognitive therapy, his symptoms did not significantly improve. After only a few interventions intended to manipulate guilt into non-symptomatic domains, we observed a reduction in obsessive symptoms. Although generalizations cannot be made based on a single case, this treatment seems consistent with the hypothesis that a sense of guilt has a central role in generating and maintaining obsessive-compulsive disorder. Furthermore, this case study highlights the importance of developing therapeutic procedures aimed at reducing feelings of guilt.


The best thing about this book is its overarching thesis, the concept of a Columbian exchange. This provocative device permits Crosby to shape a lot of familiar and seemingly unrelated data into a fresh synthesis...The implications of this interplay between novel biological and social forces are fascinating. Journal of American History


It would seem that dyslexic pupils do not receive what is either an
adequate or an appropriate education within mainstream secondary classrooms.
Mainstream teachers do not know enough about the condition to enable them to
make adequate provisions for dyslexic children within the classroom. An
examination of the literature concerning the syndrome revealed a variety of
theories of aetiology, procedures for diagnosis, nomenclature, and other issues
surrounding the subject within an educational context. This must inevitably
result in much confusion for those working with dyslexics in an educational
environment, who are, primarily, teachers. [Continues.]


A growing amount of data is produced daily resulting in a growing demand for storage solutions. While cloud storage providers offer a virtually infinite storage capacity, data owners seek geographical and provider diversity in data placement, in order to avoid vendor lock-in and to increase availability and durability. Moreover, depending on the customer data access pattern, a certain cloud provider may be cheaper than another. In this paper, we introduce Scalia, a cloud storage brokerage solution that continuously adapts the placement of data based on its access pattern and subject to optimization objectives, such as storage costs. Scalia efficiently considers repositioning of only selected objects that may significantly lower the storage cost. By extensive simulation experiments, we prove the cost-effectiveness of Scalia against static placements and its proximity to the ideal data placement in various scenarios of data access patterns, of available cloud storage solutions and of failures.


Financial services institutions like international banks and insurance companies frequently need to adapt to changes in their environments, yet manage risk and ensure regulatory compliance. The author Hans Wegener reveals how metadata can be used to achieve a successful and technological evolution. This unique approach is divided into three parts to: Explain how metadata can be used to increase an organization's ability to adopt changes Outline the peculiarities of financial corporations and how they affect value creation and solution design Present the practical side of effectively managing metadata and sustaining long term success Wegener firstly illustrates the peculiarities of both metadata management and the financial services industry. He combines both, puts them into context of use, and explains where and how this makes life difficult, as well as where and how value is created. This enables the reader to understand the impact of metadata management on his/her organization, its typical side effects, necessities, and benefits. The book then goes onto reveal how different crosscutting concerns managed in large financial corporations (change, risk, and compliance management) can revolutionize business by supporting them with metadata management. This provides a blueprint to be used in strategic planning. Finally, the mechanics of three important practical areas are discussed in-depth, namely managing evolution, quality, and sustainability. This provides helpful scripts for practitioners to be used in real-life.


Nematode management decisions should be based, in part, on knowledge of the damage threshold population density, and this value is likely to vary based on the level of resistance of the cotton cultivar. The damage functions of two cotton cultivars resistant to the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) were compared with that of a susceptible cultivar in field microplots using a 3 x 7 factorial design with three cultivars (susceptible Paymaster HS 260; resistant Acala NemX and Stoneville LA 887) and seven initial nematode population densities (Pi). Final nematode population densities and root gall indices were greater on the susceptible HS 26 than on the resistant cultivars (P ≤ 0.05). Seed cotton yields of all cultivars decreased with increasing nematode Pi (r 2 = 0.53 to 0.81), with relative yield losses being the greatest for HS 26. When yield responses to Pi were fitted to the Seinhorst model [Y = m + (1-m)Z P-T ], the damage thresholds for each cultivar were similar (T = 0.1 to 9 nematodes/500cm 3 soil). The minimum yield parameter was lower for the susceptible HS 26 (m = 0.71 to 0.8) than for the resistant cultivars (m = 0.8 to 0.93), but these differences were not significant (P ≥ 0.05). Based on both the regression and the Seinhorst models, the resistant cultivars have greater tolerance than the susceptible cultivar. The increased tolerance of the resistant cultivars increased the nematode density at which an action threshold for management is acheived.


by Marianne Alicia Malo Chenard This dissertation investigates narratives of the saintly body in Anglo-Saxon England that were written between the late seventh century and the late tenth century. Specifically, it examines the ways in which the bodies of holy men and women were constructed through these narratives, and read in local appropriations of emblematic vitae and passiones. The saints depicted in these accounts—to whatever extent these narratives rewrote biblical, exegetical, or hagiographic texts—illustrate various manifestations of sanctity. Indeed, sanctity itself is a mutable discourse, variously shaped from text to text in order to uphold other key discourses therein, such as those of chastity, Christian kingship, penitence, and reformed monasticism. This mutability is made clear in the texts that this study analyzes: the Anglo-Latin Prosa de virginitate and Carmen de virginitate by Aldhelm and the Ecclesiastical History by Bede, as well as the anonymous Old English Martyrology and Ælfric's Lives of Saints. In these works, the textualized body of the saint provides fertile ground for narrative constructions of sanctity, regardless of the genre in which that body figures: it is clear that the processes underlying these constructions are always inflected by the historical circumstances surrounding the Marianne Alicia Malo Chenard production of the texts in which the saintly body is narrated. In the first chapter, Aldhelm's delicate negotiations of virginity (in the bodily and spiritual dimensions of virginitas) illustrate the intimate connection of sanctity with a body part; in this case, the present or absent hymen. The second chapter examines how the metonymic value of the saintly body in Bede's account of King Oswald contributes to the cult of a warrior king. The third chapter, which discusses the harlot saints Mary Magdalene and Pelagia, assesses the Old English martyrologist's narrative focus on the penitents' nakedness. The final chapter examines Ælfric's narrative portrayal of the breost [breast] in his passiones of the virgin martyrs Agatha and Eugenia. In these two accounts from the Lives of Saints, the breost emerges as the focal point of a discourse of chastity that, in the context of the Benedictine reforms, uses the female body as the ground of argument.


Despite the popularity and widespread use of theory in health education, practitioners still find it difficult to design and implement theory-based interventions. This is especially true when working with ethnic/racial minority groups, including Hispanic groups. Practitioners working with Hispanic communities face additional barriers that may often discourage them from using theories when planning interventions. These barriers include the diversity that exists within the Hispanic population, lack of reliable data, and issues related to cross-cultural applicability of current behavior theories. However, the use of theory constitutes a valuable tool for developing more effective programs, and theorist researchers should be more sensitive to practitioners' needs. By explaining the processes for selecting and applying theory in the same detail as outcome results, researchers will contribute to increasing practitioners' interest in theory. This article describes Camine con Nosotros, a theory-based physical activity program for Hispanic women, and explains the process of selecting the theoretical framework of the program and connecting theory and practice.


My paper explores the similar role that fragments play in Wittgenstein's later philosophy and in Libeskind's architecture. The fragment is an infraction of traditional linear approaches to architecture and philosophy and thus affords an alternative critical glimpse into the fabric of each respective field. The fact that some philosophy and architecture use this device and its critical stance bodes well not only for the futures of the two disciplines but also for the embattled connection between them. In my paper I try to show that the break with linearity Wittgenstein and Libeskind engage in effectively replaces the ivory towers of architecture and philosophy with texts that help create novel conditions for mutual understanding and appreciation.


The existing literature on serum insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) levels in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is conflicting. Free IGF-I may have greater physiological and clinical relevance than total IGF-I. Recently, a validated method has been developed to measure free IGF-I levels in the circulation. Serum free and total IGF-I, IGF-binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), and IGFBP-3 levels were measured in 56 insulin-treated IDDM patients and 52 healthy sex- and age-matched controls. Diabetic retinopathy was established by direct fundoscopy. In 54 IDDM patients, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and effective renal plasma flow were calculated from the clearance rate of [125I]iothalamate and [131I]iodohippurate sodium. Fasting free IGF-I, total IGF-I, and IGFBP-3 levels were significantly lower in IDDM patients than in age- and sex-matched healthy controls (free IGF-I, P < 0.005; total IGF-I, P < 0.001; IGFBP-3, P = 0.001), whereas IGFBP-1 levels were higher (P < 0.001). In IDDM subjects, decreases in free IGF-I, total IGF-I, and IGFBP-3 levels with age were observed (free IGF-I, r = -0.27 and P = 0.05; total IGF-I, r = -0.52 and P < 0.001; IGFBP-3, r = -0.37 and P = 0.005). Free IGF-I was inversely related to fasting glucose in IDDM subjects (r = -0.35; P = 0.01), whereas the relationship between total IGF-I and fasting glucose did not reach significance (r = -0.27; P = 0.06). Age-adjusted free IGF-I levels were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in IDDM subjects with retinopathy than in subjects without retinopathy after adjustment for age. Total IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels were positively related to GFR (total IGF-I, r = 0.35 and P < 0.05; IGFBP-3, r = 0.28 and P < 0.05). Both of these differences lost significance after adjustment for age. Free IGF-I, total IGF-I, and IGFBP-3 levels were lower and IGFBP-1 levels were higher in insulin-treated IDDM subjects compared to those in age- and sex-matched controls. Free IGF-I, total IGF-I, and IGFBP-3 levels decreased significantly with age in IDDM subjects. Age-adjusted free IGF-I levels in subjects with diabetic retinopathy were higher than those in subjects without diabetic retinopathy. Total IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels were positively related to GFR in IDDM subjects, but these relations were lost after adjustment for age. Measurement of serum free IGF-I levels in IDDM subjects did not have clear advantages compared to that of total IGF-I, IGFBP-1, and IGFBP-3 levels. Serum IGF-I and IGFBPs reflect their tissue concentrations to a various degree. Consequently, extrapolations concerning the pathogenetic role of the IGF/IGFBP system in the development of diabetic complications at the tissue level remain speculative.