This article provides an overview of the current trends in assessment practice within the field of graphic design. The demands placed on educators to apply sound assessment practice for Higher Education subjects is as intense in the field of graphic design as in any other. Forcing the assessment of creative visual work into existing assessment methodologies is incongruous and is often, for good reason, met with resistance from lecturers in this field. Practical art and design modules tend to fall outside of the recognised assessment methodologies as the type of skills and thinking that students must evidence are difficult to define. Lecturers, in order to encourage creativity, prefer to leave learning outcomes open ended in order to accommodate the unexpected and unique solutions that students are encouraged to achieve. This and the atypical assessment approaches taken in design subjects make justifying assessment practice to the various role players challenging. In this article current trends that make assessment more transparent, encourage deep learning and give the opportunity to assess not only the final artefact, but the creative process and the development of the student as a design practitioner, are identified. These approaches can provide lecturers with the basis for building sound assessment structures and empower them to clearly justify their assessment practice.


Tidal power generation is viewed as a leading green energy approach. It is expected that the use of tidal power generation will become a primary method for local-supply-and-local-consumption energy, similar to photovoltaics and wind power. Because the current produced by tides changes with a definite periodicity, it is straightforward to forecast the production of electricity by tidal power generation. However, to cover the supply-and-demand differences in electric power, an accumulation-of-electricity system or a controllable electric power source is required. Hence, in this paper, the cost and electric power quality of an interconnection system constructed with a solid oxide type fuel cell (SOFC), photovoltaics (PV), and tidal power generators are investigated. By accessing the high-speed tidal current in the lake inlets of the Saroma Lake in Hokkaido, the demand of electric power and heat in a surrounding area are provided by the proposed system. As a result of the estimations of numerical analyses, the facility planning, costs, and electric power quality of the proposed system are identified, and the amount of time required to recover the cost versus the present energy cost is expected to be approximately ten years.


This paper proposes a broad perspective for studying the influence of culture on the process of conflict management. Three models of conflict management are described, based on the culture framework of Glen (1981). In the confrontational model, conflicts are conceptualized as consisting of subissues, and a sense of reasonable compromise aids resolution despite a confrontational style. In the harmony model, conflict management starts with the minimization of conflict in organizations through norms stressing observance of mutual obligations and status orderings. Conflicts are defined in their totality, and resolution is aided by avoidance and an accommodative style. Less emphasis is placed on procedural justice, as on maintenance of face of self and others. Third parties are used extensively, and their role is more intrusive. In the regulative model, bureaucratic means are used extensively to minimize conflicts or to aid avoidance. Conflicts get defined in terms of general principles, and third party roles are formalized. The implications of the differences among the three models for conflict resolution across cultures and for future research are discussed.


,.he had in no way been upset by the gluten, and indeed had gained a little weight. Two adults suffering from idiopathic steatorrhoea showed no clinical change when given a wheatgluten-free diet for 11 and for 21 days respectively, nor when gluten was added to the same diet for a similar period. Fat-balance studies showed absorption of 48.2% and 45% respectively by the two patients on gluten-free diet, and 60% and 53% respectively when gluten was added to the diet. Five other patients suffering from the malabsorption syndrome who were being maintained on the usual low fat, restricted carbohydrate, sprue diet were given gluten 15 g. daily, to be taken with their food for six days. In no cases did this addition cause any deterioration in the bowel habit, or discomfort. If it is believed that wheat gluten has a deleterious effect in the adult or adolescent case of coeliac disease or in idiopathic steatorrhoea, and that this effect is due to an idiosyncrasy or allergy, it would be expected that some sign of improvement would be noted when the wheat gluten was removed from the diet, but this was not found to be the case. If the effects were due to a toxic action, further deterioration would be expected when an excess of gluten was given, but this did not appear to be so. Indeed, no evidence was obtained from this investigation to suggest that gluten was playing any part in the causation of the fat malabsorption syndrome. It must be noted, however, that the test periods during which gluten was deleted or added to the diet were usually of short duration (six days) except in three cases, and the possibility exists that different results might have been produced if all the experiments had been continued for several weeks.-I am, etc.,


The thyroid gland is quite often the target of metastases. For this reason any thyroid nodule in a patient with a previous history of cancer needs to be evaluated. In case of thyroid metastases, the site of the primary tumor is most often the breast, lung or kidney. A thyroid metastasis from a foregut neuroendocrine tumor is very unusual and requires a differential diagnosis with primary neuroendocrine tumor of the gland itself, i.e., a medullary thyroid carcinoma. This case report is peculiar because of the multiple sites of abdominal relapses, the long time interval between relapses (21 years), and the positive outcome after surgical treatment.


A new light-trapping concept is presented, which joins broad bandwidth volume phase reflection holograms (VPRH) working together with three other optical components: specifically designed three-dimensional (3D) cavities, Total Internal Reflection (TIR) within an optical medium, and specular reflection by means of a highly reflective surface. This concept is applied to the design and development of both low concentration photovoltaic (LCPV) and solar thermal modules reaching a concentration factor of up to 3X. Higher concentrations are feasible for use in concentrated solar power (CSP) devices. The whole system is entirely made of polymeric materials (except for the solar cells or fluid carrying pipes), thus reducing cost by up to 40%. The module concentrates solar light onto solar cells – or fluid carrying pipes – with no need for active tracking of the sun, covering the whole seasonal and daily incident angle spectrum while it also minimizes optical losses. In this work we analyze the first experimentally measured optical characteristics and performance of VPRH in dichromated gelatin film (DCG) in our concept. The VPRH can reach high diffraction efficiencies (∼98%, ignoring Fresnel reflection losses). Thanks to specifically designed raw material, coating and developing process specifications, also very broad selective spectral (higher than 300 nm) and angular bandwidths (∼+20o) per grating are achieved. The VPRH was optimized to use silicon solar cells, but designs for other semiconductor devices or for fluid heating are feasible. The 3D shape, the hologram's and reflective surface's optical quality, the TIR effect and the correct coupling of all the components are key to high performance of the concentration solar module.


Hazelnut oil is a good source for its high oleic acid and tocopherol contents. Since tocopherols are beneficial compounds in human diet, preservation of tocopherols in oil plays a great role in refining process. The aim of this study is to determine the optimum molecular distillation conditions for deacidification of crude hazelnut oil at which free fatty acids (FFAs) are removed while tocopherols are preserved as much as possible. A short-path distillation column is used with evaporation temperatures ranging from 110 to 190 °C and vacuums from 0.05 to 5 mmHg for deacidification. Multiobjective optimization is performed for minimizing tocopherol loss and maximizing FFA removal simultaneously. Results reveal that higher temperature and vacuums achieve more deacidification in residual oil. FFA content is reduced to 2.05% at 190 °C and 0.05 mmHg. On the other hand, tocopherol concentrations are considerably affected at this condition while they remain almost stable at other conditions. Optimized conditions for removal of FFAs and protecting of tocopherols in crude hazelnut oil are calculated as 188.65 °C and 0.14 mmHg. For verification, an additional distillation is carried out at the calculated conditions, and the results are found very close to that of optimized conditions.

Practical Applications: Physical refining or vacuum distillation process is a substitute to conventional refining which causes excessive neutral oil losses during neutralization. However, heat treatment for long periods of time may inevitably cause degradation of beneficial compounds such as tocopherols. For this purpose, this study focuses on optimizing molecular distillation conditions at which maximum tocopherol and minimum FFA could be obtained simultaneously. Outcomes would be useful for industrial physical refining plants dealing with optimum points for the same purpose.

Deacidification of crude hazelnut oil using molecular distillation – multiobjective optimization for tocopherol and FFA


Lattice-based cryptography is one of the most promising branches of quantum resilient cryptography, offering versatility and efficiency. Discrete Gaussian samplers are a core building block in most, if not all, lattice-based cryptosystems, and optimised samplers are desirable both for high-speed and low-area applications. Due to the inherent structure of existing discrete Gaussian sampling methods, lattice-based cryptosystems are vulnerable to side-channel attacks, such as timing analysis. In this paper, the first comprehensive evaluation of discrete Gaussian samplers in hardware is presented, targeting FPGA devices. Novel optimised discrete Gaussian sampler hardware architectures are proposed for the main sampling techniques. An independent-time design of each of the samplers is presented, offering security against side-channel timing attacks, including the first proposed constant-time Bernoulli, Knuth-Yao, and discrete Ziggurat sampler hardware designs. For a balanced performance, the Cumulative Distribution Table (CDT) sampler is recommended, with the proposed hardware CDT design achieving a throughput of 59.4 million samples per second for encryption, utilising just 43 slices on a Virtex 6 FPGA and 16.3 million samples per second for signatures with 179 slices on a Spartan 6 device.


The more the various dimensions of climate change are just, the more an international agreement is in principle attainable. That is the reason why justice plays a major role in favouring collective action against global warming. In this article I spell out the dominant notions of justice and the consequent criteria of equity for the main domains of global warming negotiations, in order to identify a normative ethical framework. As far as mitigation is concerned, for the definition of a just initial allocation of endowments the reference point should be a per capita distribution corrected by a factor which takes into account all undeserved inequalities, as suggested by Rawls' theory of justice. With regard to the subsequent exchange of endowments, I consider the Pareto principle supplemented by the envy-freeness one as the most viable option. Turning to adaptation, my point is that the criterion of responsibility based on historical accountability is inevitable. The related underpinning of justice can be found in principle I of Rawls' theory of justice. Finally, for the issues raised by the just allocation of compensations for climate related damages I consider Sen's capability approach the soundest option.


Abstract Citrus genus includes a wide number of species that have been long cultivated and well adapted in Tunisia. It is represented by small number of plantations and considered as underutilized in Tunisia. Our goal was to genetically characterize Tunisian lime genotypes to obtain data useful for gene conservation and breeding purposes. The survey of genotypes was conducted in the Cap Bon region, where citrus cultivation is the most spread. Sixteen quantitative and 19 qualitative parameters were evaluated. The observed accessions belonged to three different species: Citrus limetta, Citrus latifolia (limes Byrsa), and Citrus limettioides (limes of Palestine) according to Tanaka classification. Principal component analysis confirmed these classifications. Four-cell analysis (FCA) was used to determine the most threatened genotypes. Quantitative traits were evaluated and allowed the discrimination between genotypes. Many quantitative traits of fruit and juice were highly positively and significantly correlated. Phenotypic diversity was determined using Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H'). The highest value of diversity index was observed for both vesicle thickness and thickness of segment walls (H' = 0.98). Intermediate values were observed for both fruit axis (H'= 0.49) and pulp firmness (H' = 0.43). However, fruit shape (H' = 0.24), shape of fruit apex (H' = 0.24), and vesicle length (H' = 0.33) presented the lowest values of diversity index. Current findings will be useful to conserve threatened genotypes ex situ and on farm and also will guide strategic conservation on Citrus genetic resources for future breeding programs.


BACKGROUND
Intraoperative angiography is routinely utilized for aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) to verify complete occlusion and resection. Surgery for spinal and posterior fossa neurovascular lesions is usually performed in prone position. Intraoperative angiography in the prone position is challenging and there is no standardized protocol for this procedure.

OBJECTIVE
To describe our experience with intraoperative angiography in the prone and lateral positions, using upper extremity arterial access.

METHODS
We reviewed our experience with intraoperative angiography in the prone position between 2014 and 2015, where vascular access was obtained via the upper extremity arteries. Patients were treated in a hybrid endovascular operating room. High cervical and intracranial lesions were studied via brachial or radial access. All accesses were obtained using ultrasonographic guidance and a small caliber arterial sheath (4F).

RESULTS
Five patients were treated in the prone and lateral positions using brachial/radial artery access. Patients harbored cerebellar AVM, lateral medullary AVM, cervical arteriovenous fistula (AVF), tentorial dural AVF, and tentorial-incisural dural AVF. Patients were positioned prone (n = 2), semiprone (n = 2), and lateral (n = 1) for the surgery. Three patients were treated via right brachial artery access. Two patients were treated via radial arteries access. All patients tolerated the procedures without technical or clinical complications. Intraoperative angiography verified complete occlusion and resection in all cases prior to surgical closure.

CONCLUSIONS
Intraoperative angiography in the prone and lateral positions using upper extremity access is an important adjunct. Brachial or radial access can be obtained safely and provides comfortable and quick approaches.


A single-antenna, frequency-tunable FDD front-end supporting simultaneous transmit (TX) and receive (RX) operation with high power handling capabilities and low TX and RX losses is presented. The system comprises a balanced CMOS N-path receiver in series with tunable evanescent-mode filters, and leverages frequency-selective reflectivity and matching for quadrature signal construction and self-interference cancellation at corresponding ports of interest. A measured 65 nm CMOS receiver prototype with manufactured cavity filters demonstrated 38 dBm blocker tolerance (B1dB) around 1 GHz at 100 MHz TX−RX spacing with no RX EVM degradation, < 0.4 dB TX insertion loss, and 3.5−4.5 dB RX NF over 0.9−1.8 GHz tunable frequency range.


Orthodox scholarly discourse on the theme of Sino-Africa relations has tended to accentuate the efficacy of the South-South alternative to development, chiefly as the vehicle for mitigating the developing countries' peripheral status in the global order. Literature has accused the North-South economic relations of favouring the former. In search of justice and fair play in international political and economic relations, most African countries started 'looking east', mainly towards China. Notwithstanding China's long solidarity with Africa throughout the liberation struggle, and its contribution to the continent through foreign direct investment, infrastructure development, trade and bilateral aid, some of its recent engagements with the continent have raised questions of neo-colonialism tantamount to those in the North-South relations. The new Sino-Africa relations are being viewed by many as mainly driven by China's hunger for Africa's natural resources and the search for international markets for its manufactures, and business opportunities for its multinational corporations. The article argues that the new Sino-Africa economic relations, although still largely 'win-win', could soon plunge into 'win-lose' relations in favour of China. Keywords: Global justice; China; Africa; resources; market; neo-colonialism


The core competency of mathematics has always been a hot issue in the education field. The ability to solve problems in mathematics is also an indispensable ability to learn mathematics problem solving. The Polya problem solving table has an important guiding role for mathematics problem solving. Simplify the Polya problem-solving form to make it more suitable for high school teaching. Through the Polya problem-solving table, the cultivation of mathematical core competency is integrated into the process of mathematical problem-solving for our mathematics teaching and promote the development of students' mathematical core competency.


Background: Improvement and maintenance of bulbar function are goals of disease-modifying treatments for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Lack of standardized measures and a widely accepted definition of bulbar function represents a gap in SMA care. Objective: A multidisciplinary team conducted post-hoc analyses of pooled data from one phase 1 (START) and two phase 3 (STR1VE-US, STR1VE-EU) studies to define and evaluate bulbar function of infants with SMA type 1 after receiving one-time gene replacement therapy, onasemnogene abeparvovec. Methods: We defined bulbar function as the ability to meet nutritional needs while maintaining airway protection and the ability to communicate verbally. Four endpoints represented adequate bulbar function: (1) absence of clinician-identified physiologic swallowing impairment, (2) receiving full oral nutrition, (3) absence of adverse events indicating pulmonary instability, and (4) the ability to vocalize at least two different, distinct vowel sounds. We descriptively assessed numbers/percentages of patients who achieved each endpoint and all four collectively. Patients were followed until 18 months old (STR1VE-US and STR1VE-EU) or 24 months (START) post-infusion. Results: Overall, 65 patients were analyzed for swallowing, nutrition intake, and adverse events, and 20 were analyzed for communication. At study end, 92% (60/65) of patients had a normal swallow, 75% (49/65) achieved full oral nutrition, 92% (60/65) had no evidence of pulmonary instability, 95% (19/20) met the communication endpoint, and 75% (15/20) achieved all four bulbar function components in the composite endpoint. Conclusions: In these three clinical trials, patients with SMA type 1 who received onasemnogene abeparvovec achieved and maintained the bulbar function criteria utilized within this investigation.


A new technique to analyze the short-chain branching distribution (SCBD) in linear lowdensity polyethylene has been developed. The technique referred as crystallization analysis fractionation is based on a stepwise precipitation approach. By monitoring the polymer solution concentration during crystallization, the cumulative and differential SCBD can be obtained without the need of physical separation of fractions. The new technique has been shown to provide similar results to temperature rising elution fractionation but in a shorter time and with a simplified apparatus. It allows the simultaneous analysis of various samples and could also be used for analysis of polypropylene and other semicrystalline polymers that can be fractionated on the basis of crystallizability. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.


This article prices a real option and constructs narrow bounds around the value of real options embedded in capital budgeting decisions by applying the minimax deviations approach to real options in incomplete markets. While it is straightforward to obtain the unique value of a real option with hyperbolic absolute risk aversion (HARA) utility functions, the parameters of risk aversion are often subject to misspecification and raise concerns for practical uses. Recognizing that investors allow deviation from parameter values related to a benchmark pricing kernel, we derive narrow bounds on a real option price. Comparison with the approaches in the literature clarifies advantages of the minimax bounds: simple, consistent, and efficient.


In computer graphics, models describing the fractal branching structure of trees typically exploit the modularity of tree structures. The models are based on local production rules, which are applied iteratively and simultaneously to create a complex branching system. The objective is to generate three-dimensional scenes of often many realisticlooking and non-identical trees. Our goal, instead, is to visualize the growth of a prototypical tree of certain species. It is supposed to look realistic but, more importantly, has to conform with real, measured data. We construct a tree model being similar to existing ones and extend it by coupling the branching production rules with dynamic tree-growth rules. The latter are based on equations derived from measured street tree data for London Plane tree (Platanus acerifolia) such as tree height, diameter-at-breast-height, crown height, crown diameter, and leaf area. We map the global, measured parameters to the local parameters used in the tree model. The mapping couples knowledge from plant biology and arboriculture, as we deal with trees that are trained and manipulated to achieve desired forms and functions within highly urbanized environments.


Purpose of Review: Hepatitis B virus infection and the immune response in babies and adults. Findings: The presence of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in new-borns makes Hepatitis B to become chronic over years with both antigens present in the blood, HBs and HBe, the immune system not being able to recognize the infection in the first years of life. The expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) allows the immune system to maintain the infection with Hepatitis B, although the patient reaches adult age, because myeloidderived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are responsible for the disfunction of the immune system and not the virus itself. Our goal is to show what is maintaining T cell exhaustion in hepatitis B, why this is happening and what is responsible for this. MDSC is responsible for chronic Hepatitis B infection. The expansion of MDSC is the format in which hepatitis B manage to escape the immune system's response. MDSC cells have the ability to interact with these signals generated by common progenitor lymphoid cells and in this way the immune system cannot exercise its function.


Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a ubiquitous pathogen belongs to the beta herpesvirus family. RNA2.7 is a viral long non-coding RNA accounting for more than 20% of total viral transcripts at early time of infection. By construction of RNA2.7 deleted mutant and genome transcriptomic analysis, RNA2.7 is demonstrated to repress host cellular RNA polymerase II (Pol II)-dependent transcription through inhibiting the phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II (Pol II). Co-immunoprecipitation, RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA electrophoretic mobility shift assay are followed to investigate its mechnism. A 145nt-in-length fragment in RNA2.7 is identified to bind to Pol II and block the interaction between Pol II and phosphorylated cyckin-dependent kinase 9 (phospho-CDK9). By inhibiting Pol II phosphorylation, RNA2.7 decreases the transcription and expression levels of chromatin licensing and DNA replication factor 1 (Cdt1) and cell division cycle gene 6 (Cdc6). Through above way, RNA2.7 prevents the entry of cells into S phase and facilitates viral DNA replication. Our results discover the functions of HCMV RNA2.7 in regulation of Pol II phosphorylation and cell cycle control during infection. Author summary Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) RNA2.7 is a viral lncRNA that is most abundant during infection. Here we show that a 145nt-in-length fragment in RNA2.7 binds to RNA polymerase II (Pol II) and blocks the interaction between Pol II and phosphorylated cyckin-dependent kinase 9 (phospho-CDK9). By inhibiting Pol II phosphorylation, RNA2.7 decreases the transcription and expression levels of chromatin licensing and DNA replication factor 1 (Cdt1) and cell division cycle gene 6 (Cdc6), and blocks host cells entering into S phase. RNA2.7 is confirmed to facilitate viral DNA replication through decreasing Cdt1 and Cdc6. Therefore, our results discover the functions of HCMV RNA2.7 in regulation of Pol II phosphorylation and cell cycle control during infection.


ICML11 was derived through 5 generations of selfing and ear-to-row selection from accession IP2696 (from Chad). It is resistant (hypersensitive) to Puccinia penniseti [P. substriata var. penicillariae], resistance being controlled by a single dominant gene (designated Rpp1). ICML11 remained free from infection by P. penniseti in trials at 5 sites in India in 1984. It is also resistant to Sclerospora graminicola.


The time-delay signature (TDS) suppression of semiconductor lasers with external optical feedback is necessary to ensure the security of chaos-based secure communications. Here we numerically and experimentally demonstrate a technique to effectively suppress the TDS of chaotic lasers using quantum noise. The TDS and dynamical complexity are quantified using the autocorrelation function and normalized permutation entropy at the feedback delay time, respectively. Quantum noise from quadrature fluctuations of the vacuum state is prepared through balanced homodyne measurement. The effects of strength and bandwidth of quantum noise on chaotic TDS suppression and complexity enhancement are investigated numerically and experimentally. Compared to the original dynamics, the TDS of this quantum noise improved chaos is suppressed up to 94%, and the bandwidth suppression ratio of quantum noise to chaotic laser is 1:25. The experiment agrees well with the theory. The improved chaotic laser is potentially beneficial to chaos-based random number generation and secure communication.


We analyze the full counting statistics of photons emitted by a Nitrogen Vacancy center (NV) under non-resonant laser excitation and resonant micro-wave (MW) control. This the detected fluorescence. Furthermore, we can investigate the time correlations of the emitted photons and elaborate detection and polarization protocols to optimize the energy and time resources while maximizing the system sensitivity.


In contemporary society, Social Design practices are crucial for the operability of aggregative solutions. Developing efficient and effective solutions that meet and enhance social needs and responsibilities, combining a greater number of values shared by different sets of individuals. In this way, the creative community must reflect on the behavioral patterns and the way to create and manage solutions able to perspective the agglutination of contexts, for this, different methods and options may be considered in the search for knowledge of experiences and ways of acting, according to social and cultural trends.This article aims to understand how the creation process influences and interconnects individual and collective thinking, in which the context of individuality and diversity is present in the analysis of the problem and, consequently, should be present in the elaboration of the design solution directed to social groups, sometimes also multicultural.These groups of people connected by a common interest, according to Godin (2013), can be considered tribes. Aware or not, the individual is part of many tribes. Tribes without unitary leader identification but create value and effects in society and in the market. In the past, one of the main factors influencing the constitution of tribes was geography. However, the globalization process has expanded and accelerated the number of tribes, which can have relevant power, but often an ephemeral character. Given the constant adaptation of ways of being, thinking, and feeling, the thought process must integrate and identify behavioral and relational models. In this sense, the development and experimentation of design must be associated with an awareness of culture and group unification. The analysis process from individual to collective must develop an exploration and critical evaluation in the face of the groups and multiculturalism. This fact encourages the applicability of Social Design, in order to guide reflection and the development of solutions framed in the multigroup problem.Creating products and services with a cultural link and with symbolic and emotional connections, according to Krucken (2009), is a challenge, considering that the final configuration of the product is a combination between essence and personality, defined consciously or not.In this framework, function (the essence) and form (the personality) play a crucial role in visualizing and strategically anticipating decision-making and design choices.Thus, considering the group individuality and group immensity, our goal is to identify models, to assess weaknesses and/or potential for success or failure, in the applicability of the process and the framing of the result in collective nuclei with identity particularities, as well as, the role that Social Design can play as a synergy binder in the thought process and the final result. The methodology will be based on a case study and literature review.


Treatment of SGH by ALA-PDT with Blue Light Source or Intense Pulsed Light Activation. Sebaceous gland hyperplasia (SGH) lesions often present as a sign of photoaging and have proven difficult to treat. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be an effective treatment option. Twelve patients with SGH received PDT with 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA, Levulan Kerastick, DUSA Pharmaceuticals, Inc) photosensitizing agent topically applied with a 30- to 60-minute drug incubation period. Patients received either 405-420 nm blue light (ClearLight PhotoClearing System, CureLight, Lumenis) for 15 minutes or intense pulsed light (IPL), 500-1,200 nm and 550 nm cut-off filter (VascuLight System, Lumenis) according to a randomization protocol. ALA-PDT was administered once per month for 4 consecutive months. Progress was evaluated at 4 and 12 weeks after the final treatment. More than a 50% reduction in the number of SGH lesions was achieved for patients in both treatment arms without lesional recurrence during the treatment and follow-up periods. All treatments were well-tolerated. Adverse effects were limited to mild, transient erythema (n = 2) and blisters (n = 1), which resolved without sequelae. ALA-PDT with either blue light or IPL photoactivation may provide therapeutic benefit without significant adverse effects in patients with SGH.


In this paper we present exact solutions of the Dirac equation on the non-commutative plane in the presence of crossed electric and magnetic fields. In the standard commutative plane such a system is known to exhibit contraction of Landau levels when the electric field approaches a critical value. In the present case we find exact solutions in terms of the non-commutative parameters η (momentum non-commutativity) and θ (coordinate non-commutativity) and provide an explicit expression for the Landau levels. We show that non-commutativity preserves the collapse of the spectrum. We provide a dual description of the system: i) one in which at a given electric field the magnetic field is varied and the other ii) in which at a given magnetic field the electric field is varied. In the former case we find that momentum non-commutativity (η) splits the critical magnetic field into two critical fields while coordinates non-commutativity (θ) gives rise to two additional critical points not at all present in the commutative scenario.


Discussion about the impact of the international harmonization of higher-level patent protection in the public health sector of less developed countries just started to take place after the so-called Doha Declaration. This paper advocates a more intense discussion on patents, highlighting not only that estimates of benefits and losses resulting from greater patent protection have been negligent toward the loss of monopoly that result from patents, but especially the fact that they do not take into account the raise in public health costs in less wealthy countries that results from this tendency to harmonize.


The paper is concerned with the principles upon which coccidia of the genus Eimeria may be characterized. Reference strains for comparative purposes usually are not available and the limitations of morphological data for speciation are discussed. The value of other parameters are considered such as host and site specificity, pathogenicity, immunological specificity, pre-patent period, sporulation time, enzyme variation, and DNA buoyant density. The weight afforded to each of these parameters for specific identification may vary according to the parasite and host studied. Determinations of physiological and behavioral characteristics that are now becoming available should be included in species definitions wherever possible.


Europe is confronted by an intimidating triple challenge – economic stagnation, climate change, and a governance crisis. This paper demonstrates how the three challenges are closely inter-related, and discusses how they can be dealt with more effectively in order to arrive at a more economically secure, environmentally sustainable and well governed Europe. In particular, a return to economic growth cannot come at the expense of greater risk of irreversible climate change. Instead, what is required is a fundamental transformation of the economy to a new 'green' trajectory based on rapidly diminishing emission of greenhouse gases. This entails much greater emphasis on innovation in all its forms (not just technological). Following this path would mean turning Europe into a veritable laboratory for sustainable growth, environmentally as well as socially.


It was established by Boltzmann that the second law of thermodynamics is essentially a law of statistical probability, the validity of which depends on the existence of a verylarge number of individuals or units. The equilibrium state of a physicochemical system as defined by thermodynamical laws is simply the most probable state, towards which the system tends on the average but from which it can also fluctuate, the probability of any specified fluctuation diminishing in general rapidly with the magnitude of the fluctuation. Since the time of Boltzmann the theory of fluctuations has been greatly developed by Smoluchowsky and Einstein and applied to many phenomena which were inexplicable from the older point of view. Since the probability of any specified fluctuation increases rapidly when the number of individuals becomes relatively small and since the physiologist has frequently to deal with very small living ceils or parts of ceils (e.g. nuclei, chromosomes, etc.) the question arises as to whether it is justifiable to employ the laws of classical thermodynamics when dealing with such minute systems. I t is proposed to deal with this question in a simple manner in the present article. We shall take a very simple case of chemical equilibrium between isomeric substances, and consider from statistical considerations how the probability of a small deviation or fluctuation from the molar or "macro" state of chemical equilibrium depends on the magnitude of the deviation and the total number of molecules present in the chemical equilibrium. Let us consider, therefore, in a closed system at constant temperature the chemical equilibrium A1 ~ A,, where A1 and A, represent two isomeric forms of equal molecular mass. Let nl = the number of mole685


This study presents a preliminary investigation for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on surface sediments in a reach of Kızılırmak River near a scrap yard in Kırıkkale, Turkey. PCB concentrations of up to 19.5 ng/g−1 Σ41 were observed in sediments downstream of the yard, where profiles showed predominantly the presence of penta- and hexa-chlorobiphenyls. Specifically, #138, 149, 153, 180 were the most abundant congeners in downstream samples. In contrast, no PCBs were observable in sediments upstream of the scrap yard. The contributing PCB sources to the sediments were predicted by a chemical mass balance (CMB)-based receptor model; Aroclor 1260 was identified as the major source for these sediments. Considering that Aroclor 1260 was extensively used in old transformers and capacitors, occurrence of this PCB signature point to the scrap yard as a potential source. Release of PCBs over time as indicated by the significant concentrations observed even in surface samples emphasizes the importance of the need for better environmental management in the region.


A criterion for formation of etchable tracks in solids is suggested using the well-known concepts of ionization and thermal spikes, diffusion process with useful and justified assumptions, and present or published experimental and theoretical investigations on the same subject. The suggested criterion is useful for a wide spectrum of researchers including development and applications of track recording materials, ions implantation, sputtering and other areas, which include interactions of charged particles with solids.


A series of polypropylene (PP) alloys containing different ethylene contents have been prepared by the in situ sequential polymerization technique, using Ziegler–Natta catalyst (MgCl2/TiCl4/BMF; BMF is 9,9-bis(methoxymethyl)fluorine, as an internal donor) without any external donor. The structure and properties of PP alloys obtained have been investigated by nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results have suggested that PP alloys are the complex mixtures containing PP, the copolymer with long sequence ethylene chain, ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR), and block copolymer etc. In the alloys, PP, EPR, and the copolymer with long sequence ethylene chain are partially compatible. The investigation of the mechanical properties indicates that notched Izod impact strength of PP alloy greatly increases at 16°C/−20°C in comparison with that of pure PP. The noticeable plastic deformation is observed in SEM photograph. The increase in the toughness, the mechanical strength of PP alloy decreases to a certain extent. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 4804–4810, 2006


Conventional value-added assessment requires that achievement be reported on an interval scale. While many metrics do not have this property, application of item response theory (IRT) is said to produce interval scales. However, it is difficult to confirm that the requisite conditions are met. Even when they are, the properties of the data that make a test IRT scalable may not be the properties we seek to represent in an achievement scale, as shown by the lack of surface plausibility of many scales resulting from the application of IRT. An alternative, ordinal data analysis, is presented. It is shown that value-added estimates are sensitive to the choice of ordinal methods over conventional techniques. Value-added practitioners should ask themselves whether they are so confident of the metric properties of these scales that they are willing to attribute differences to the superiority of the latter.


Emmer wheat [Triticum dicoccum (Schrank)] cultivation in Ethiopia has been reducing and the genetic diversity maintained in the germplasm collection needs to be determined. The objective of this study was to assess the level of genetic diversity among populations of Ethiopian emmer wheat using seed storage protein analysis. Seeds of 85 accessions representing seven administrative regions of Ethiopia were obtained from the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute and grown at Sinana Agricultural Research Center. Seed storage proteins were extracted from a single seed and separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Total genetic diversity, intra-population genetic diversity and inter-population genetic diversity were 0.33, 0.2903 and 0.0391, respectively. Low genetic differentiation (GST = 0.119) and high gene flow (Nm = 3.697) were observed among populations. The genetic distance (D) between populations ranged from 0.0424 to 0.1128. Cluster analysis revealed two main clusters and one outlier. The results provide important baseline for future germplasm conservation and improvement programs.

 Key words: Cluster analysis, emmer wheat, genetic distance, genetic diversity, seed storage protein.


This critical review delves into the impact of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling techniques, specifically 2D, 2.5D, and 3D simulations, on the performance and vortex dynamics of Darrieus turbines. The central aim is to dissect the disparities apparent in numerical outcomes derived from these simulation methodologies when assessing the power coefficient (Cp) within a defined velocity ratio (λ) range. The examination delves into the prevalent turbulence models shaping Cp values, and offers insightful visual aids to expound upon their influence. Furthermore, the review underscores the predominant rationale behind the adoption of 2D CFD modeling, attributed to its computationally efficient nature vis-à-vis the more intricate 2.5D or 3D approaches, particularly when gauging the turbine's performance within the designated λ realm. Moreover, the study meticulously curates a compendium of findings from an expansive collection of over 250 published articles. These findings encapsulate the evolution of pivotal parameters, including Cp, moment coefficient (Cm), lift coefficient (Cl), and drag coefficient (Cd), as well as the intricate portrayal of velocity contours, pressure distributions, vorticity patterns, turbulent kinetic energy dynamics, streamlines, and Q-criterion analyses of vorticity. An additional focal point of the review revolves around the discernment of executing 2D parametric investigations to optimize Darrieus turbine efficacy. This practice persists despite the emergence of turbulent flow structures induced by geometric modifications. Notably, the limitations inherent to the 2D methodology are vividly exemplified through compelling CFD contour representations interspersed throughout the review. Vitally, the review underscores that gauging the accuracy and validation of CFD models based solely on the comparison of Cp values against experimental data falls short. Instead, the validation of CFD models rests on time-averaged Cp values, thereby underscoring the need to account for the intricate vortex patterns in the turbine's wake—a facet that diverges significantly between 2D and 3D simulations. In a bid to showcase the extant disparities in CFD modeling of Darrieus turbine behavior and facilitate the selection of the most judicious CFD modeling approach, the review diligently presents and appraises outcomes from diverse research endeavors published across esteemed scientific journals.


The plasma OT increment following stress in rats is sexually dimorphic, females exhibiting greater responses than males. We have investigated the role of neonatal androgen secretion in determining the sex-typical level of response. Castration of male pups either surgically or functionally (GnRH antagonist treatment) within either 2 h or 5 days of birth did not elevate the OT responses of adult males. In contrast, androgenization of female pups (testosterone, 1.25 mg/pup) within 5 days of birth markedly reduced the OT stress responses of adults to a level insignificantly different to males. The results show that neonatal androgens can exert organizational effects on OT regulatory mechanisms. Since neonatal castration was ineffective it would appear that a prenatal defeminization or masculinization event determines OT stress responsiveness in males.


Anterior panhypopituitarism has been observed in one of monozygous twin girls. Etiologic investigations were negative and only suggested an hypothetic perinatal insult. Genetic abnormalities could be excluded. Replacement therapy with human growth hormone was strikingly successful, with a remarkable catch-up growth and, however, a velocity of bone age comparable with the velocity of growth.


Abstract Loan managers' trust in entrepreneurs can be a useful tool for overcoming entrepreneurial firms' opaqueness. Nevertheless, the possibility for loan managers to leverage trust can be affected by differences in the regulative institutions within the banks (type of bank) and by place-bound normative institutions (social context). By relying on semi-structured interviews and a survey of 450 bank-entrepreneur relationships, this study finds that a positive impact of trust in lending relationships is sensitive to different place-bound normative institutions and to the regulative institutions within the banks. The results are robust with respect to potential endogeneity issues.


ABSTRACT:Since the establishment of the BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movement in 2005, organizations and institutions around the world have been trying to promote a boycott of Israeli academia. Against the BDS movement stand activists, Israeli diplomats, academics and Jewish organizations. Using the image repair theory and the multi-step model for altering image, this study sets out to analyze strategies used by seven NGOs in their fight against the BDS movement to boycott Israeli academia. Our analysis of articles, visuals, editorials and initiatives published in these NGO's websites shows the use of three kinds of strategies: (1) Source strategies (presenting the BDS promoters as anti-Semitic, questioning their goals and exposing their desire to destroy Israel); (2) Message strategies (proving that the claims against Israel are false, presenting facts that contradict the claims, and expanding Israel's positive image); and (3) Specific target audience strategies (presenting Israel to Western audiences as a democratic country and illustrating that Israel and the West have the same values).


A total of six isolates of Actinomycetes were collected from marine sediments of Andaman Islands. Each isolate was tested against five pathogenic bacteria and also against some pathogenic fungi. Among the six isolates, one of the isolates showed potent activity against all the bacteria and fungi. These isolates appear to produce high anti-fungal and anti-bacterial compounds on potato dextrose agar and nutrient agar medium respectively, by using the agar diffusion method. The potent Actinomycetes were characterized by morphological methods consist of macroscopic and microscopic methods. The mycelium structure, color and arrangement of conidiophores were observed through the oil immersion (100X). Various biochemical tests performed for the identification of potent isolates are as follows: Melanin reaction, H2S production, tyrosine reaction, starch hydrolysis, casein hydrolysis, gelatin hydrolysis, milk coagulation and peptonization, nitrate reduction, temperature range of growth, pH tolerance and cell wall type by comparing all these results with the  Bergey's manual of Determinative Bacteriology and the organisms were identified. All the isolates were identified to belong to the genus Streptomyces. Further purification of the spent medium may gives more activity than the standard antibiotics and also effective against some multidrug resistant pathogens.

 Key words:  Actinomycetes, Streptomyces, antimicrobial activity, pathogenic bacteria, pathogenic fungi, spent medium, secondary screening test


The 2017 Mw 6.3 Jinghe earthquake represents one of the few large earthquakes that are well recorded by seismic instruments and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) observations in the seismically active Tian Shan region. In this study, we use the rupture fault solution (dip, dip direction, and slip sense) from seismologic and InSAR results, along with analysis of our collected surface mapping data, to determine the subsurface fault-plane geometry of the seismogenic Jinghenan fault. This geometric model, integrated with the coseismic slip distribution from seismologic and InSAR data, reveals that: (1) the Jinghenan fault extends downward from the land surface at a dip of ∼46° S (upper ramp), then bends to ∼42° S (lower ramp) at the depth of 9–13 km; (2) the coseismic rupture is confined within the Jinghenan lower ramp, and its upper limitation is approximately coincident with the fault-bend location. This coseismic rupture pattern and seismic behavior can be broadened to other active thrust faults within the Tian Shan, suggesting that, during moderate-strong earthquakes, such faults may only rupture partially in the down-dip extension, and the unruptured fault portion remains to pose high-seismic risk in the future.


Introduction: The liver is the corner stone of the coagulation system and patients with liver disease are at a substantially increase risk of both thrombosis and haemorrhage. Liver acts as a reticulo endothelial system and regulates coagulation and fibrinolysis by removing these coagulation factors from the circulation. Coagulation disorders in liver disease are usually measured by the prolongation of global screening tests such as the prothrombin time and the activated partial thromboplastin time. Ingeneral, PT determines vitamin K dependent extrinsic factors VII, X, II, V and fibrinogen. The aPTT measures the activities of intrinsic and common pathways of coagulation cascade most sensitive to factor VIII, IX, XI, XII and those of the contact system. Aims and Objectives: To study the alteration in coagulation profile in various liver diseases, to evaluate the risk of bleeding in patients with liver disease and to study the association of coagulation abnormality with the extent of liver disease. Material and Methods: The study included 100 patients with liver diseases attending Medicine and Paediatric department clinics in a teaching tertiary care hospital. These patients were divided into three groups: (1) 40 cases of cirrhosis, (2) 40 cases of viral hepatitis and (3) 20 cases of obstructive jaundice. All these patients were screened for different coagulation tests like Prothrombin time (PT), Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT), Fibrinogen and Platelet count. Conclusion: Various abnormalities of coagulation tests vary greatly with different liver disorders, duration of the disorders, and their severity. There are more chances of bleeding when coagulation parameters are altered in cases of cirrhosis but more studies are required in this field to evaluate the thrombotic events seen in patients with liver diseases.


Lead- and strontium-isotope ratios from the Catface Tertiary intrusions in Vancouver Island occupy a narrow range of values, indicating a homogeneous or well-mixed source. Within this range, the lead-isotope data fall into two distinct clusters centred about initial 206Pb/204Pb of 18.70 and 18.95. These two clusters correlate, respectively, with the eastern and western belts of Catface intrusions. Initial strontium ratios for these intrusions show little variation about a mean value of 0.7039.The source of these intrusions cannot be identified uniquely using lead- and strontium-isotope data alone, but two possibilities can be ruled out. 207Pb/204Pb, 208Pb/204Pb, and initial strontium ratios are all too high to be solely from mantle-derived magmas. Initial strontium ratios are too low and the 208Pb/204Pb and 232Th/238U ratios are too high for the Catface intrusions to be the products of melting of pre-existing Sicker Group rocks.Galena from quartz-gold veins related to the Zeballos pluton has a lead isotop...


Updated 10/16/2016 World Database for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery Appendix D: Non Congenital Cardiac Anatomic Abnormality Terms and Definitions Major Abnormality of Craniofacial (Head) Any abnormality of the head including: Choanal Atresia, a congenital anomaly in which a bony or membranous occlusion blocks the passageway between the nose and pharynx; Cleft lip, a congenital anomaly consisting of one or more clefts in the upper lip that results from failure of the maxillary and median nasal process to close during embryonic development; Cleft Palate, a congenital fissure in the roof of the mouth, resulting from incomplete fusion of the palate during embryonic development. It may involve only the uvula or extend through the entire palate


The isopropylmalate isomerase in Salmonella typhimurium is the second enzyme specific for leucine biosynthesis. It is a complex enzyme composed of two subunits which are coded for by two genes of the leucine operon, leuC and leuD. The two polypeptides have been shown to copurify through successive ammonium sulfate fractionations and have been identified on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels as having molecular weights of 51,000 (leuC gene product) and 23,500 (leuD gene product). They have also been shown to be fairly stable, since in vitro complementation of cell-free extracts of leuC and leuD mutant strains was demonstrated, with only a 40% loss of activity 16 h after preparation of the extracts. The native isopropylmalate isomerase was shown to have a Km for its substrate alpha-isopropylmalate of 3 x 10(-4)M.


Purpose: to develop an individual model of competitive activity of qualified female runners to achieve the planned sports result of 100 m. Material: for qualified athletes (n = 88), using video-computer analysis, individual characteristics of speed dynamics in running for 100m and kinematic parameters of running for different distances were recorded. The tensodynamograms of the manifestation of the strength of muscle groups carrying the main load in the structure of the sprint run of 18 short-distance runners of various qualifications were recorded and processed. Results: promising models of competitive activity in the 100m race for the planned sports result have been developed. Based on the model of a specific athlete, the main areas of work are determined, means and methods of training effects are selected. Conclusions: Practical realization of the developed model provided the necessary increase in indicators. This made it possible for female athletes (n = 8, age 19-21 years) to improve the average result in running the main distance (compared with the previous year) by 0.18 s.


Assume that the coefficients of a polynomial in a complex variable are Laurent polynomials in some complex parameters. The parameter space (a complex torus) splits into strata corresponding to different combinations of coincidence of the roots of the polynomial. For generic Laurent polynomials with fixed Newton polyhedra the Euler characteristics of these strata are also fixed. We provide explicit formulae for the Euler characteristics of the strata in terms of the polyhedra of the Laurent polynomials in the cases of degrees 2 and 3. We also obtain some corollaries in combinatorial geometry, which follows from two different ways of computing the Euler characteristic of the bifurcation set for a reduced polynomial of degree 2.


An archaeological excavation of the protected burial mound Store Vejlhøj in northwestern Denmark was carried out in October-November 2021. The excavation formed part of the ERC-funded research project called ANTHEA, focusing on the deep history of anthropogenic heathlands. It was conducted by Aarhus University in collaboration with Holstebro Museum and Moesgaard Museum. The aim was to test a new method of sampling pollen data from different construction stages in a burial mound and comparing them with pollen data from nearby lake sediments with a view to improving our understanding of prehistoric anthropogenic heathland dynamics. Prior to the excavation, soil cores were collected from two nearby peat sediments as well as six burial mounds (including Store Vejlhøj) within a 1 km range of Lake Skånsø, where previous pollen analyses had been carried out. Based on these preliminary corings, Store Vejlhøj was selected for further archaeological investigation. A dispensation for excavating the protected mound was granted by the Danish Palaces and Culture Agency. The excavation was based on a 5 m long trench through the barrow, moving from its foot inwards. The surface vegetation and 40 cm topsoil were removed by an excavator, after which the remainder of the trench was manually dug in horizontal layers. Observation conditions were good. The excavation revealed a series of well-defined barrow construction stages, as well as unusually wellpreserved turf structures. Only two archaeological finds could be related to the barrow, both of which were later than its initial construction: a secondary urn in the top layer, and the base of a second urn at the foot of the mound. The burial mound was constructed using a minimum of three shells, which could be observed in the trench profile. Turfs were most probably collected locally in a landscape dominated by grass pastures, where no previous turf cutting had taken place. A total of 34 soil samples were collected for paleoecological analyses (pollen, Non-Pollen Polymorphs (NPPs), macrofossils) and geoarchaeological analyses (micromorphology, bulk samples). Preliminary pollen and macrofossil results from the burial mound revealed poor preservation conditions, which prompted a trench extension of 0.5 m by 0.2 m to find better preservation conditions. This extension resulted in the collection of a single final macrofossil sample, although there was no identifiable change in the in-situ preservation conditions. The dating results of the mound have not yet been completed and will be included as appendix 4-6 in 2023.


Based on notification data the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown in Switzerland was assessed. While the incidence of tick-borne encephalitis almost doubled as compared to 2016-2019, a reduction in all other infectious diseases was recorded. The lowest reduction rates (<25%) were noted for legionellosis, hepatitis A, chlamydia infection and gonorrhoea.


The fibre orientation state evolution is evaluated by the fully 3D convection-dispersion equation, i.e. the Fokker-Planck equation. This is solved along various streamlines in the contraction with vane inserts so that effects of wakes and boundary layers could be studied across a jet. As an input to the fibre orientation model the turbulent flow field is solved by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) with second-order closure of the turbulence model. Parameter values for the rotational dispersion coefficient of three hypotheses reported in studies are tested for an independent experimental case. After the contraction the anisotropy profile across the flow, has a variation in anisotropy value in different regions, identified as the boundary layer, the undisturbed region and wakes. The numerical result predicts these regions by comparison to the experimental result with the fully 3D approach of the fibre orientation state applied.


Abstract
This research intends to see the calorie intentions increasing with type II diabetes patients in Clinic "X" Bandung, after being given self-efficacy training of calorie diet. Theory and questionnaire based on the theory of planned behavior (Ajzen, 2005) and general self-efficacy (Schwarzer 1995). Analyzed data using a mixed-method in which combining quantitative and qualitative data (Creswell, 2016). Test the validity PBC of calorie diet and self-efficacy of calorie diets is done using content validity. The results are that after participating in self-efficacy training of calorie diet patients with type II DM at Clinic "X" Bandung showed an increase of the calorie diet PBC. Theoretical suggestion for subsequent research is to increase the number of research subjects so that the data obtained can be calculated statistically and it can show the significance of increased PBC of calorie diets in patients with type II DM at Clinic "X" Bandung. Doctors and nurses at Clinic"X" Bandung can use this training to help other DM patients so they can have self-efficacy in the calorie diet so that it can increase PBC to carry out diet calorie.
Keywords: perceived behavior control (PBC), self-efficacy, calorie diet, DM type II


The purpose of this study was to elucidate the efficacy and safety of cisplatin powder, suspended in lipiodol, as a means for the treatment of liver cancer by injection into the portal vein. The effects of lipiodol (0.1 ml. 0.2 ml. 0.3 ml. 0.4 ml) alone, as well as that of cisplatin powder (1.0 mg) suspended in lipiodol or saline (0.1 ml), on the liver, was investigated by administration of them into the portal vein in 100 normal Wistar rats. The results revealed that the hepatic cells were moderately affected by a small amount of lipiodol alone, but a large amount of lipiodol caused multiple anemic infarctions in the peripheral area of the liver. And, also the injection of cisplatin powder suspended in lipiodol, compared to that suspended in saline, resulted in higher concentration of platinum in the liver. Histologically severe degenerative changes were also perceived in the liver, but these changes were reversible. These results suggest that cisplatin powder suspended in lipiodol is to be used for the treatment of liver cancer.


Micro-cavity structure composed of silicon wire with 240 nm square cross section and two symmetrical sidewall waveguide Bragg gratings is fabricated and studied for the operation under telecommunication wavelengths. Optical filter of quasi-TE mode was realized based on this cavity. In such micro-cavity, optical quality factor (Q) was measured up to 380 with a 4.8 nm free spectral range (FSR) and 12 dB fringe contrast (FC). The measured group index of silicon waveguide with only 240 nm square cross section was between 3.80 and 5.43. It is the first time group delay of silicon wire waveguide with such small core dimension is studied. Larger group delay can be expected after optimizing the design parameters and the fabrication process.


Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory infection caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The underlying causes of severe COVID-19 are related to systemic inflammatory responses that can lead to lung damage. Tocilizumab and highdose glucocorticoids are practically used in ARDS cases associated with COVID-19. Corticosteroids are inexpensive and easily available drugs compared to tocilizumab. There is no study comparing these two drugs, which are becoming widely used in treatment-unresponsive COVID-19 pneumonia. In this study, we wanted to compare the beneficial effects of tocilizumab and highdose methylprednisolone therapy in mild Acute Respiratory Dyspnea Syndrome (ARDS) caused by COVID-19. The study included 152 patients who received two doses of tocilizumab 400 mg or pulsed methylprednisolone therapy (500 mg/day for three days) due to mild ARDS related to COVID-19 pneumonia. The two groups were compared in terms of age, gender, comorbid diseases, hospital stay, admission to intensive care unit, length of stay in the intensive care unit, intubation status, mortality, C-Reactive Protein (CRP) level, White Blood Cell (WBC) count, platelet, neutrophil, lymphocyte, ferritin and D-dimer levels. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in gender, comorbid diseases, need for intubation, mortality and need for intensive care. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in age, total length of hospital stay, length of stay in intensive care, CRP, WBC, platelet, neutrophil, lymphocyte counts, ferritin and D-dimer values. The average cost of tocilizumab therapy is $500 to $1000, while it is $30 in pulsed methylprednisolone treatment. The present study found that treatment with pulsed methylprednisolone which is cheap and easy to access can be a good alternative to tocilizumab therapy in mild ARDS related to COVID-19 pneumonia.


Graph Neural Network (GNN) research has highlighted a relationship between high homophily (i.e., the tendency of nodes of the same class to connect) and strong predictive performance in node classification. However, recent work has found the relationship to be more nuanced, demonstrating that simple GNNs can learn in certain heterophilous settings. To resolve these conflicting findings and align closer to real-world datasets, we go beyond the assumption of a global graph homophily level and study the performance of GNNs when the local homophily level of a node deviates from the global homophily level. Through theoretical and empirical analysis, we systematically demonstrate how shifts in local homophily can introduce performance degradation, leading to performance discrepancies across local homophily levels. We ground the practical implications of this work through granular analysis on five real-world datasets with varying global homophily levels, demonstrating that (a) GNNs can fail to generalize to test nodes that deviate from the global homophily of a graph, and (b) high local homophily does not necessarily confer high performance for a node. We further show that GNNs designed for globally heterophilous graphs can alleviate performance discrepancy by improving performance across local homophily levels, offering a new perspective on how these GNNs achieve stronger global performance.


In China, children aged <8 months, who were expected to be protected by maternal antibodies before receiving the first dose of measles vaccine, were the age group with the greatest risk of infection in recent years. In this study, we evaluated whether infants yet to be age-eligible for measles vaccine had a sufficient seropositive level of maternal measles antibodies in 2009 and 2013. Blood samples were collected from infants aged <8 months through population-based serological surveys conducted in Zhejiang, China. Serum levels of immunoglobulin G measles antibodies were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In 2013, the mean geometric mean titres (GMTs) of infants aged 4 to 8 months were below the seropositivity threshold (<200 mIU/mL), decreasing from 118.6 mIU/mL (95% confidence interval [CI] 83.0, 169.3 mIU/mL) at 4 months to 28.6 mIU/mL (95% CI 15.6, 52.3 mIU/mL) at 7 months. Antibody levels were significantly lower in 2013 than in 2009 starting from 5 months of age. In conclusion, infants aged 4 to 8 months are susceptible to measles due to low levels of maternal measles antibodies. It is thus suggested to provide infants with a supplementary dose on top of the routine schedule, and/or launch catch-up vaccination campaigns among young women.


Significant lymph node shrinkage is common in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) throughout radiotherapy (RT) treatment, causing ill-fitted thermoplastic masks (IfTMs). To deal with this, an ad hoc adaptive radiotherapy (ART) may be required to ensure accurate and safe radiation delivery and to maintain treatment efficacy. Presently, the entire procedure for evaluating an eligible ART candidate is time-consuming, resource-demanding, and highly inefficient. In the artificial intelligence paradigm, the pre-treatment identification of NPC patients at risk for IfTMs has become greatly demanding for achieving efficient ART eligibility screening, while no relevant studies have been reported. Hence, we aimed to investigate the capability of computed tomography (CT)-based neck nodal radiomics for predicting IfTM-triggered ART events in NPC patients via a multi-center setting. Contrast-enhanced CT and the clinical data of 124 and 58 NPC patients from Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) and Queen Mary Hospital (QMH), respectively, were retrospectively analyzed. Radiomic (R), clinical (C), and combined (RC) models were developed using the ridge algorithm in the QEH cohort and evaluated in the QMH cohort using the median area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC). Delong's test was employed for model comparison. Model performance was further assessed on 1000 replicates in both cohorts separately via bootstrapping. The R model yielded the highest "corrected" AUC of 0.784 (BCa 95%CI: 0.673–0.859) and 0.723 (BCa 95%CI: 0.534–0.859) in the QEH and QMH cohort following bootstrapping, respectively. Delong's test indicated that the R model performed significantly better than the C model in the QMH cohort (p < 0.0001), while demonstrating no significant difference compared to the RC model (p = 0.5773). To conclude, CT-based neck nodal radiomics was capable of predicting IfTM-triggered ART events in NPC patients in this multi-center study, outperforming the traditional clinical model. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for future study into developing an effective screening strategy for ART eligibility in NPC patients in the long run, ultimately alleviating the workload of clinical practitioners, streamlining ART procedural efficiency in clinics, and achieving personalized RT for NPC patients in the future.


The efficient and reproducible crystallisation of a polymorph showing the desired properties and functionalities is crucial in a variety of fields, such as the pharmaceutical sector. Characterising thermodynamics and mechanisms of polymorphic transitions at the molecular level is thus a key step towards developing a rational design of crystallisation processes and products. Despite its relevance, a systematic computational analysis of polymorphism and polymorphic transitions still represents a major challenge. In this thesis, metadynamics is employed in combination with state-of-the-art techniques, such as committor analysis and Markov State Models, to provide insight into polymorphism in molecular systems. The first part of the work focuses on packing polymorphism. The investigation of the transition between phases I and III in bulk carbon dioxide aims at testing a set of computational tools able to characterise in detail thermodynamics and mechanism of polymorphic transitions. This set-up is then applied and further developed for the study of CO2 confined in cylindrical nanopores, unveiling a complex landscape of ordered structures, unaccessible in unconfined conditions. Next, the serendipitous and irreproducible discovery of a new polymorph of succinic acid, γ, provides a challenging context to tackle the study of conformational polymorphism. Form γ presents folded conformers in its unit cell, while the other known polymorphs show planar molecules. From molecular dynamics and metadynamics, γ appears labile and metastable, a characteristic that might hinder its crystallisation. The study of the conformational behaviour of succinic acid in water reveals fast interconversions within a network of nine conformers, both folded and planar, among which the folded conformation observed in γ is the most thermodynamically stable. The high flexibility of this molecule is relevant in determining the nucleation mechanism. Simulations of supersaturated solutions and of crystal seeds dissolution suggest that nucleation cannot be classical, but it is rather likely to be a multi-step process.


Drought is a state of water availability that is far below the need for water for survival, agriculture, economic activity, and the environment. Drought in the Brantas Hulu watershed has been recorded as hampering the function of the Sutami Reservoir. This study used the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) method of 3 monthly and 6 monthly to determine the distribution of drought in the form of duration, severity, and maximum intensity of the Brantas Hulu watershed. This study also analyzed the relationship between the 3-monthly and 6-monthly SPI index to the sutami reservoir inflow discharge in the Brantas Hulu watershed using the Pearson Correlation method including correlations without lag, lag 1, and lag 2. The data used are monthly rainfall data for 30 years for the period 1991 - 2020 from 10 Rain Posts in Malang City, Batu City, and Malang Regency as well as monthly inflow debit data for 10 years for the period 2011 - 2020 from Perum Jasa Tirta 1. In general, the distribution of the maximum drought duration occurs for 15 – 17 months, while the SPI of 6 months occurs for 25 – 29 months. The maximum drought severity occurs for 5 - 6 months, while the 6-month SPI occurs for 9 – 11 months. The maximum drought intensity of SPI is 3 months and 6 months is categorized as Dry. Otherwise, the correlation of 3 monthly SPI and sutami reservoir inflow discharge without lag and lag 1 is worth 0,2 to 0,3, while for lag 2 it is worth 0,1 to 0,2. The correlation value of the 6 -month SPI index and the inflow discharge of Sutami Reservoir without lag is worth 0,3 to 0,4, while the correlation of lag 1 and lag 2 is worth 0,2 to 0,3.


The role of CD8+ T lymphocytes in controlling replication of live, attenuated simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) was investigated as part of a vaccine study to examine the correlates of protection in the SIV/rhesus macaque model. Rhesus macaques immunized for >2 yr with nef-deleted SIV (SIVmac239Δnef) and protected from challenge with pathogenic SIVmac251 were treated with anti-CD8 antibody (OKT8F) to deplete CD8+ T cells in vivo. The effects of CD8 depletion on viral load were measured using a novel quantitative assay based on real-time polymerase chain reaction using molecular beacons. This assay allows simultaneous detection of both the vaccine strain and the challenge virus in the same sample, enabling direct quantification of changes in each viral population. Our results show that CD8+ T cells were depleted within 1 h after administration of OKT8F, and were reduced by as much as 99% in the peripheral blood. CD8+ T cell depletion was associated with a 1–2 log increase in SIVmac239Δnef plasma viremia. Control of SIVmac239Δnef replication was temporally associated with the recovery of CD8+ T cells between days 8 and 10. The challenge virus, SIVmac251, was not detectable in either the plasma or lymph nodes after depletion of CD8+ T cells. Overall, our results indicate that CD8+ T cells play an important role in controlling replication of live, attenuated SIV in vivo.


Purpose: The aim of this paper is to draw attention to the role that business support organizations (BSOs) play in the modern economy, as well as identifying the most important areas of their activities in Poland. Approach/Methodology/Design: The work is based on properly selected source materials, including, enterprise management literature, reports, statements drafted by specialized institutions, research works made by the author. The research was carried out among 335 students of the University of Szczecin. Findings: The obtained results will help to indicate the most important areas of activity of business support organizations in Poland. Practical Implications: The results of the research cannot be generalised, but can form the basis for further deliberations. They shed certain light on possible main areas of activity of business support organizations in Poland. In the future, it is suggested to perform similar research on the presented topics in a larger group of respondents. Originality/Value: The results of the survey conducted among the students indicate that people planning to set up a business or already existing enterprises can take advantage of various elements of the BSOs' offer. What is more, the article presents the most important areas of activity in BSOs in Poland.


A case report of non-invasive electrophysiological mapping and high-density mapping used for treatment of ventricular tachycardia originating in the left ventricle.


Fe atoms were steamed on Si(111)-7×7 surface, which had been saturated by CH3OH. Aim to greatly enhance the magnetic performance, nitriding experiments were implemented and adjusted on the existing linear Fe clusters. First of all, the dissociation of CH3OH adsorption process was deducted in detail, which laid a good foundation for the better use of surface quasi-potential. Further to solve the coming problems like weak linearity and low nitriding effect, the formation mechanism of iron-nitride was explored. Atomic layers of Fe deposition are confirmed as the key to NH3 dissociation process (at room temperature). Specifically, the higher Fe atomic layer contacted by NH3, the weaker influence of surface quasi-potential. With the introduction of Ar, Fe deposition could be controlled at 1-2 atomic layers, result in good NH3 dissociation and nitriding efficiency. Combing with magnetic performance result, the density of residual magnetization is improved from 1.5E-0.5 emu to 7.0E-0.5 emu, forming an obvious linear structure. It is also proved that our new linear iron-nitride clusters will maintain good stability with the improvement of nitriding efficiency.PACS: 07.79.Cz; 81.15.-z; 75.75.Fk


This study examined demographic, socioeconomic, and geographic factors facilitating the likelihood of participating in recreational angling. The analysis was based on a nationwide telephone survey in Germany. The probability of being an angler was significantly higher for males with full-time working status, living in Eastern Germany, in rural areas and near to the coast. Educational level and household size were negatively related to angling participation. Increasing net monthly household income increased the odds of participation in fishing. Close access to saltwater was more influential for angling participation than access to freshwater. Given projected trends of demographic change likely affecting the general population structure in Germany, most of the associations found in this study suggest decreased participation in recreational angling in the future. It is a matter of societal values whether targeted marketing and management approaches are implemented to intervene into the likely outcome of demographic change in Germany.


Background Chronic Heart failure (CHF) is a global epidemic and common cardiovascular disease with high mortality and poor prognosis, which bring heavy burdens to society and family. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been extensively used in China as an adjunct treatment for CHF. Guanxinshutong capsule (GXST), approved by the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) in 2002 (No. Z20020055), is commonly used Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD) currently. Both experimental research and small-sample clinical trials have shown that GXST could attenuate CHF. However, the effects of GXST on CHF as an adjunct therapy are lack of high-quality clinical evidence. This study is a large-scale, multi-center, double-blinded clinical trial to explore the efficacy and safety of GXST in CHF with ejection fraction decrease (<50%) caused by CHD. Methods This study is a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. After 1week baseline period, a total of 480 participants will be randomly assigned to the intervention group and placebo group in ratio 2:1. Based on routine medications, the intervention group will be treated with GXST while the control group will be treated with placebo (both 0.3g/capsule, op, 3 capsules/time, thrice daily) for 12 weeks, and then be followed-up for another 40 weeks. The primary outcome is the effect of 6 min walk test (6MWT). The secondary outcomes include NT-proBNP, classification of the New York Heart Association (NYHA) heart function, Minnesota heart failure quality of life scale (MLHFQ), echocardiographic parameters, blood stasis syndrome symptom scale and clinical endpoint events. Metabolomics and proteomics will also be assessed. Adverse events (AEs) will be monitored throughout the trial. All the data will be recorded in electronic case report forms (eCRF) system database and analyzed in accordance with a predefined statistical analysis plan. Ethical approval of this trial has been granted by the Research Ethics Committee of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (ID: 2019-Y-003-02). Written informed consent of patients will be required. The results will be disseminated to the public through peer-reviewed journals and academic conferences. Discussion This study integrates the advantages of TCM and western medicine in the treatment of CHF, the result of this study will offer the efficacy and safety evidence of GXST on CHF with ejection fraction decrease (<50%).


The Clam ( Galatea paradoxa Born 1778) is a dermesal dweller of riverine water and filter feed by passing water through gut concentrating particulate matter including bacteria in the gut and mantle. Microbial profile of contaminating bacteria and their sensitivity to gamma irradiation (0 – 20 kGy) were ascertained in vivo and in vitro under laboratory conditions. Conventional cul-tural and morphological characteristics were used to detect the resident Total Aerobic Bacteria (TAB), Total Heterotrophic and Total Coliform bacteria (TC) populations in the clam and the species encountered were confirmed using biochemical methods and the API 20E identification kit. Twenty (20) bacteria species in the samples belonged to 18 genera (Acinetobacter, Aeromo-nas, Chromobacterium, Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Escherichia, Flavobacterium, Klebsiella, Mi-crococcus, Morganella, Proteus, Pseudomonas, Salmonella, Serratia, Staphylococcus, Strepto-coccus, Vibrio and Yersinia) predominated by Acinetobacter (22%), Staphylococcus aureus (12%) and Klebsiella ornitholytica (11%) in the clam mantle and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (32%), Klebsiella ornitholytica (24%) and Flavobacterium meningosepticum (12%) in the water. A dose of 20 kGy eliminated all microorganisms in the "in vitro" studies; at 15 kGy only two bacteria species Micrococcus radiodurans and Vibrio cholera survived. The most radio resistant species was M. radiodurans (D10=6.19 kGy), followed by Vibrio cholera (D10=5.2 kGy). A dose of 10 kGy eliminated Staphylococcus aureus (D10=1.7 kGy). Practical implications from these find-ings are discussed in the light of food safety of preserved clams.


We have developed an explicit inverse approach with a Hessian matrix for the least-squares (LS) implementation of prestack time migration (PSTM). A full Hessian matrix is divided into a series of computationally tractable small-sized matrices using a localized approach, thus significantly reducing the size of the inversion. The scheme is implemented by dividing the imaging volume into a series of subvolumes related to the blockwise Hessian matrices that govern the mapping relationship between the migrated result and corresponding reflectivity. The proposed blockwise LS-PSTM can be implemented in a target-oriented fashion. The localized approach that we use to modify the Hessian matrix can eliminate the boundary effects originating from the blockwise implementation. We derive the explicit formula of the offset-dependent Hessian matrix using the deconvolution imaging condition with an analytical Green's function of PSTM. This avoids the challenging task of estimating the source wavelet. Moreover, migrated gathers can be generated with the proposed scheme. The smaller size of the blockwise Hessian matrix makes it possible to incorporate the total-variation regularization into the inversion, thus attenuating noises significantly. We revealed the proposed blockwise LS-PSTM with synthetic and field data sets. Higher quality common-reflection-point gathers of the field data are obtained.


The results of studies on the CD3CD8CD28 cells in SLE are inconsistent since several analyses describe CD3CD8CD28 as either immunosuppressive or cytotoxic. The aim of this study is to inquire whether the quantitative changes of CD3CD8CD28 T lymphocytes subpopulation are related to the clinical status of patients with lupus nephritis. Evaluation of Foxp3 expression on CD3CD8CD28 cellsmay shed some light on functional properties of these cells. 54 adult SLEpatients and 19 sex and agematched healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study.There were 15 patients in inactive (SLEDAI≤ 5) and 39 in active (SLEDAI> 5) phase of disease.We determined absolute count of CD3CD8CD28 and CD3CD8CD28Foxp3 subpopulations by flow cytometry.We observed a statistically significant increase in absolute count and percentage of CD3CD8CD28 in SLE patients compared to HC (p < 0.001). Moreover there was significant positive correlation between increasing absolute count of CD3CD8CD28 cells and disease activity measured by SLEDAI (rs = 0.281, p = 0.038). Active LN patients had increased absolute count of CD3CD8CD28 cells compared to HC. Positive correlation of CD3CD8CD28 number with disease activity, and lack of Foxp3 expression on these cells, suggests that CD3CD8CD28 lymphocytes might be responsible for an increased proinflammatory response in the exacerbation of SLE.


Scalable video coding technique has been desired for many years to realize a reliable transmission of video over heterogeneous networks. In this paper, we present a new system of scalable video broadcasting over wireless networks. For each group of pictures, a number of quality layers are produced using scalable video coding. We design the channel protection schemes using the forward error correction codes for the base layer and the enhancement layers, respectively. Given the clients' distribution, we propose a novel algorithm to determine both the source coding bit-rate and the channel coding bit-rate for each layer to maximize a system-defined utility function. Experimental results can demonstrate the superior of the proposed scheme to other schemes and the improvement is up to 2 dB.


A drug sensitivity test prior to clinical treatment is necessary for individualized cancer therapy. A useful in vitro model that mimics the in vivo tumor microenvironment is required to select optimal anti-cancer agents. To promote the microfluidic technology moving from the laboratory to the clinic, we developed a microfluidic-based perivascular tumor model that makes it possible to assess drug sensitivity in 3D cultured tumor spheroids and toxicity in endothelium in parallel. The sensitivity and toxicity of PTX, 5-FU, and CDDP were assessed using the microfluidic model. It was found that high concentrations of single drugs destroyed the human umbilical vein endothelial cell line (HUVEC) layer, although they can effectively induce apoptosis of head and neck cancer cells. A combination of low concentrations of these drugs presented a good curative effect on tumor cells and low toxicity to the HUVEC layer. Then, we applied the model to test anti-cancer drug sensitivity in cancer patients. Individual differences to candidate drug combinations were found among these patients. This suggests that different chemotherapy plans should be made for individual patients. This study demonstrated that the microfluidic model might be a useful platform for individual drug tests prior to clinical treatment.


[GROWTH AND YIELD OF MELON PLANT (Cucumis melo L.) IN DIFFERENT COMPOSITION OF PLANT MEDIA AND DIFFERENT FREQUENCY OF NPK APPLICATION]. This study aims to determine the best combination of planting media composition and frequency of NPK fertilization on the growth and yield of melon plants. The research was conducted in October 2018 - January 2019 on the land located in Bentiring, Muara Bangkahulu District, Bengkulu City. The design used in this study was a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of two factors and three replications. The first factor was the composition of the media for plant growth, which consists of three different media composition, namely: sand: soil: manure (30%: 50%: 20%), sand: soil: manure (10%: 60%: 30%), and sand: soil: manure (20%: 70%: 10%). The second factor is the frequency of NPK fertilization consisting of four types of fertilization, namely: 1 time NPK fertilization during planting, 2 times NPK fertilization during planting and 10 days after planting (dap), 3 times NPK fertilization during planting, 10 dap and 20 dap, and 4 times NPK fertilizing during planting, 10 dap, 20 dap and 30 dap. The dose given is 15 g/plant (equivalent to 800 kg/ha) and NPK fertilizer given in the form of compound fertilizer N: P: K 16:16:16. The results showed that the best composition of the planting media was found in the treatment of sand media: soil: manure (10%: 60%: 30%). The best fertilizing frequency was found in the treatment of NPK fertilizing 4 times during planting, 10 dap, 10 dap, 30 dap, and the combination of both produces the most substantial plant length, weight, and fruit circumference


Let $X$ be a compact connected Abelian group. It is well-known that then there exist topological automorphisms $\alpha_j, \beta_j $ of $X$ and independent random variables $\xi_1$ and $\xi_2$ with values in $X$ and distributions $\mu_1, \mu_2$ such that the linear forms $L_1 = \alpha_1\xi_1 + \alpha_2\xi_2$ and $L_2 = \beta_1\xi_1 + \beta_2\xi_2$ are independent, but $\mu_1$ and $\mu_2$ are not represented as convolutions of Gaussian and idempotent distributions. To put this in other words in this case even a weak analogue of the Skitovich-Darmois theorem does not hold. We prove that there exists a compact connected Abelian group such that if we consider three linear forms of three independent random variables taking values in $X$ and the linear forms are independent, then at least one of the distributions is idempotent.


Background: Developing countries have a high incidence of burn injuries, creating a formidable public health problem. The exact number of cases is difficult to determine: however in a country like India, with a population of over 1 billion, we would estimate 700,000 to 800,000 burn admissions annually. Objective: The study was done to investigate the epidemiology of various causations and their outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality. Also, the effect of social stigma and cultural issues associated with burns on the victim and his family was assessed. Materials and Methods: All burn cases (n=412) admitted to the burns unit of M. Y. Hospital, Indore over a period of one year (2005-2006) were investigated. The data regarding sex, age predisposition, geographical origin, mode and nature of injury were obtained by questionnaire-interview with the patient themselves. Clinical assessment was done in the form of depth and extent of injury and complications. In case of mortality, again various factors like age, sex and cause of death were analyzed. The data was analyzed by SPSS 11.0 version. The interrelationship between various factors was studied using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: Burns were found more commonly in middle-aged groups. The incidence was more in females as an absolute number (70.3%) as well as when stratified by age. Most burns were domestic, with cooking being the most prevalent activity. Flame (80.3%) was the most common agent. Most of the cases of burn were accidental (67.7%). Moreover, the patients had third degree burn that leads to more mortality in our circumstances. Death occurred in more than one-half (62.3%) of cases with septicaemia and disseminated intravascular coagulation (35.4%) as the leading causes. When using logistic regression analysis, the outcome of the burn injury was significantly associated with degree, depth, extent and mode of injury. Conclusion: This series provides an overview of the most important aspects of burn injuries for hospital and non-hospital healthcare workers. The majority of deep burns are accidental, seen in middle-aged housewives as a result of flame burns, and lead to death. So measures should be taken to provide proper education to prevent these accidents and ensure safety.


ABSTRACT How did industrialisation affect land use and residential patterns in cities of the nineteenth century? We use census data and GIS mapping techniques to analyse class segregation and changes to the spatial structure using the case of Uppsala, Sweden between 1880 and 1900. We find that there was a clear concentration of business activity in the central district and in proximity to the transportation hubs. Since these activities became more numerous but remained concentrated, they likely increased land values in the central areas of the city, inducing the lowest social classes to locate away from the centre. However, while these households were pushed out, it did not result in the type of class segregation we observe in many twentieth-century cities. Before the widespread use of transport technologies allowing populations to sprawl, city expansion in the type of middle-sized city that we study led instead to increased density and mixed uses in the central areas.


An update and expansion of our readily applicable structure-activity relationship (SAR) for predicting the barrier height E(b) to decomposition by beta C-C scission of (substituted) alkoxy radicals is presented. Such alkoxy radicals are key intermediates in the atmospheric oxidation of volatile organic compounds, and a correct description of their chemistry is vital to the understanding of atmospheric chemistry; nevertheless, experimental data on these reactions remain scarce. The SAR is based on quantum chemical characterizations of a large set of alkoxy radicals, and accommodates alkoxy radicals with alkyl- (-R), oxo- (=O), hydroxy- (-OH), hydroperoxy (-OOH), alkoxy (-OR), alkylperoxy- (-OOR), nitroso- (-NO), nitro- (-NO2), nitrosooxy- (-ONO), and nitroxy- (-ONO2) functionalities, as well as 3- to 6-membered rings and some unsaturated side chains. The SAR expresses the barrier height to decomposition, E(b) = 17.9 kcal mol(-1) + Sigma N(s) x F(s), as a linear function of the number N(s) of these substituents on the relevant carbons, and the substituent-specific activities F(s) derived from the quantum chemical calculations, allowing facile predictions based solely on the molecular structure. For low barriers, < or = 7 kcal mol(-1), a simple curvature correction is required. The SAR-predicted barrier height E(b) can be used to predict the high-pressure rate coefficient for alkoxy decomposition k(diss) at or around 298 K.


Abstract Continued reliance on chemical methods for controlling annual bluegrass has resulted in many populations evolving resistance to PRE and POST herbicides, particularly in warm-season turfgrass species such as zoysiagrass. Soil seedbank management is critically important when managing herbicide-resistant weeds. Fraise mowing (also spelled fraze, frase, and fraize) is a new turfgrass cultivation practice designed to remove aboveground biomass while allowing turf to regrow vegetatively. We hypothesized that this process would remove annual bluegrass seed and therefore be a mechanical means of controlling annual bluegrass in turfgrass. Zoysiagrass field plots were fraise-mowed in June 2015 only, June 2016 only, June 2015 and June 2016, or left untreated. The fraise mower was configured to remove the uppermost 25 mm of plot surface (i.e., 15-mm verdure and 10-mm soil). Annual bluegrass infestation was quantified in April following fraise mowing via grid count. Soil cores (10.8 cm diameter) were extracted from each plot after grid count data were collected to assess effects of fraise mowing on the soil seedbank. Moreover, replicated subsamples (7.6 L) of debris generated during fraise mowing were collected to better understand weed seed content removed during the fraise mowing process. Fraise mowing in June offered a slight reduction (24%) in annual bluegrass cover the following April. Whereas 28% of the seed in fraise-mowing debris consisted of annual bluegrass, there was no difference in the quantity of annual bluegrass seed remaining in the soil seedbank among fraise-mowed and non–fraise-mowed plots. Although fraise mowing may help to temporarily reduce existing annual bluegrass infestations via mechanical removal, the frequency and depth we studied did not effectively reduce the seedbank. Fraise mowing is a useful tool for providing mechanical suppression of annual bluegrass but it is not a replacement for properly timed herbicide applications. Nomenclature: Annual bluegrass (Poa annua L.); zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.)


We had found that in an early stage of DNA damage-induced, p53independent apoptosis, retinoblastoma (RB) protein is hypophosphory. lated to a p115form by an activated serine/threoninephosphatase.Here, we report that accompanying the internucleosomal fragmentation of DNA, the newly formed p115/hypolRB was immediately cleaved into at least two fragments, p68 and p48. The RB cleavage activity possessed properties of interleukin 1@i-converting enzyme family. Addition of a specific tetrapeptide interleukin 1@3-convertingenzyme inhibitor pre vented cleavage of p115/hypolRB and early apoptotic cells from undergo ing further apoptosis. We suggest that activation of the RB phosphatase and protease may be involved in mediating the two physiological stages of apoptosis, commitment and execution, respectively.


Numerous studies on the improvement of low strength for soft ground have been performed. EPS, light weight filling material, is used at the study site for stability on consolidation settlement. However, several problems such as settlement of pavement layer and damage of curb occurs. The elevation is lower 1 m than that of designed value by consolidation. It is caused by excessive load during construction. In this study, problems due to overloading on the soft ground where the EPS is used were analyzed and some cases for reasonable improvement method were described. From the results, instructions for design and construction are suggested.