Ten stocks and strains of genetically nonhaired mice were evaluated for the ability to respond to two mitogens (concanavalin A and lipopolysaccharide) and to two antigens (sheep erythrocytes and pneumococcal polysaccharide, type III). The number of T and B lymphocytes in the thymus, spleen and pooled lymph nodes of individual animals were determined using immunofluorescent techniques; the values for each group of animals were found to be comparable. The antibody-forming ability was evaluated by determining the number of plaque-forming cells in the spleen after immunization with either antigen. All strains of mice responded to both antigens and the responses are discussed. All groups of mice responded to the mitogens tested.


Workpackage 8 of the European Datagrid project was formed in January 2001 with representatives from the four LHC experiments, and with experiment independent people from five of the six main EDG partners. In September 2002 WP8 was strengthened by the addition of effort from BaBar and D0. The original mandate of WP8 was, following the definition of short- and long-term requirements, to port experiment software to the EDG middleware and testbed environment. A major additional activity has been testing the basic functionality and performance of this environment. This paper reviews experiences and evaluations in the areas of job submission, data management, mass storage handling, information systems and monitoring. It also comments on the problems of remote debugging, the portability of code, and scaling problems with increasing numbers of jobs, sites and nodes. Reference is made to the pioneeering work of Atlas and CMS in integrating the use of the EDG Testbed into their data challenges. A forward look is made to essential software developments within EDG and to the necessary cooperation between EDG and LCG for the LCG prototype due in mid 2003.


The purpose of this paper is to examine the cognitive demand levels of tasks used by an in-service primary teacher during length measurement and perimeter instruction and to examine a possible link between these tasks and the teacher's mathematical knowledge in teaching. For this purpose, a case study approach was used and the data was drawn from classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and field notes. Specific tasks from length measurement and perimeter instruction were presented and analyzed according to the Mathematical Tasks Framework. Then, how these tasks gave information about the teacher's mathematical knowledge in teaching in the length measurement and perimeter topics was examined according to the Knowledge Quartet model. According to the findings of the study, the tasks used during length measurement and perimeter instruction were mostly categorized as low-level tasks. In addition, teacher's mathematical knowledge in teaching affected the implementation of the tasks.


Decentralisation policy is important in ensuring effective delivery of development services at the local level. Governments across the globe utilize decentralised government system as a way of promoting people-centered development. Notwithstanding the value of decentralisation policy, governments struggle with the provision of development services at the local level. This suggests that more efforts need to be made to ensure the realisation of the dividends of decentralisation. However, this cannot be made without an  awareness of the challenges local actors face in the delivery of development services. This paper examines the views of stakeholders on the challenges associated with the delivery of development projects within the Ghanaian decentralised government system using the Shama District as a case in order to proffer some measures to improve the situation in the country using the sequential-explanatory mixed method design. Data were collected using interview guide and interview schedule. The study revealed that stakeholder management, involvement of project managers, defining project goals, assigning roles and responsibilities to key  officers, and monitoring and evaluation of projects were some of the measures the Assembly had put in place for the delivery of development projects in the district. However, communication was a serious challenge throughout the delivery of development projects in the district. The implications of the key findings for development communication have been highlighted in the study. As part of the recommendations of the study, the Assembly should put in place adequate measures to improve communication  throughout the various stages of development service delivery in the district.


Background One of the methods of pain control after pediatric surgical procedures is regional techniques, including caudal block, despite their limitations. Objectives In this study, the pain score and complications of caudal tramadol were evaluated in pediatrics following lower abdominal surgery. Methods In this study, 46 children aged 3 to 10 years were allocated into two equal groups (R and TR) for performing caudal analgesia after lower abdominal surgery. The injectate contained 0.2% ropivacaine 1 mL/kg in the R group (control group) and tramadol (2 mg/kg) and ropivacaine in the TR group. The pain score, duration of pain relief, amount of paracetamol consumption, hemodynamic alterations, and possible complications at specific times (1, 2, and 6 hours) were evaluated in both groups. Results No considerable difference was observed in the pain score between the groups in the first and second hours (P > 0.05). However, in the sixth hour, the TR group had a significantly lower pain score than the R group (P < 0.05). Compared to the R group, the TR group had a longer period of analgesia and lower consumption of analgesic drugs (P < 0.05). Heart rate and blood pressure differences were not significant between the two groups (P > 0.05). Similarly, the duration of operation and recovery time were not remarkably different between the two groups (P > 0.05). Complications had no apparent differences between these two groups, as well (P > 0.05). Conclusions In this study, the addition of tramadol to caudal ropivacaine in pediatric lower abdominal surgery promoted pain relief without complications.


A fucosylated chondroitin sulfate (FCS) was isolated from the body wall of Pacific sea cucumber Cucumaria japonicaby extraction in the presence of papain followed by Cetavlon precipitation and anion-exchange chromatography. FCS was shown to contain D-GalNAc, D-GlcA, L-Fuc and sulfate in molar proportions of about 1:1:1:4.5. Structure of FCS was elucidated using NMR spectroscopy and methylation analysis of the native polysaccharide and products of its desulfation and carboxyl reduction. The polysaccharide was shown to contain a typical chondroitin core → 3)-β-D-GalNAc-(1 → 4)-β-D-GlcA-(1 →. Sulfate groups in this core occupy O-4 and the majority of O-6 of GalNAc. Fucosyl branches are represented by 3,4- and 2,4-disulfated units in a ratio of 4:1 and are linked to O-3 of GlcA. In addition, ∼ 33% of GlcA are 3-O-sulfated, and hence, the presence of short fucooligosaccharide chains side by side with monofucosyl branches cannot be excluded. FCS was shown to inhibit platelets aggregation in vitro mediated by collagen and ristocetin, but not adenosine diphosphate, and demonstrated significant anticoagulant activity, which is connected with its ability to enhance inhibition of thrombin and factor Xa by antithrombin III, as well as to influence von Willebrand factor activity. The latest property significantly distinguished FCS from low-molecular-weight heparin.


Information about the world is often represented in the brain in the form of topographic maps. A paradigm example is the topographic representation of the visual world in the optic tectum/superior colliculus. This map initially forms during neural development using activity-independent molecular cues, most notably some type of chemospecific matching between molecular gradients in the retina and corresponding gradients in the tectum/superior colliculus. Exactly how this process might work has been studied both experimentally and theoretically for several decades. This review discusses the experimental data briefly, and then in more detail the theoretical models proposed. The principal conclusions are that (1) theoretical models have helped clarify several important ideas in the field, (2) earlier models were often more sophisticated than more recent models, and (3) substantial revisions to current modelling approaches are probably required to account for more than isolated subsets of the experimental data.


These days, special emphasis has been put on the importance of the ICT competencies in the teacher training. The most effective way of developing these competences is to integrate well the proper technologies into education. In our Institutions we have used the Moodle Learning Management System for years. This presentation points out the potentialities of Moodle including other open source and web based learning applications.


Background Delays to treatment following late non-standard results (NSR) review (e.g. mid-stream urine or radiological tests) by a doctor can cause patient harm. There are on average 10 NSR per week in our department. Prior to this project there was limited governance around clinician review of results with most done in an adhoc way sometimes causing significant delays to treatment (2+ weeks). Verbal communication with staff often did not result in NSR being actioned faster. Patients would often make multiple calls to the results team resulting in poor patient experience. Aim All NSR, once available, will be actioned within 7 days by August 2015. Methods Quality improvement (QI) methodology applied and key drivers identified: 1) Staff: Training, timetabled administration sessions. 2) Communication: Clear roles/responsibilities identified, email communication. 3) Timing: Timely upload of NSR onto recall list by results team. 4) Measurement: Recall list checked daily, NSR remaining recorded. Plan-do-study-act cycles (PDSA) were used over six months PDSA 1: Developed a computerised recall system. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) written. Team training. PDSA 2: Results team briefed/delegated task of recording remaining NSR. PDSA 3: SOPs uploaded to intranet. Email communication with new staff. SHO induction briefing (every four months). Results We now have on average only one outstanding NSR per week. Verbal communication from the results team has confirmed much improved patient satisfaction. Discussion Through QI methodology and the development of a simple organised governance system, patient care and satisfaction can be improved. Additional PDSA cycles are planned to further service improvement.


The aims of the current study were to investigate the use of dRPE with academy soccer players to: 1) examine the effect of bio-banded and non-bio-banded maturity groups within SSG on players dRPE; 2) describe the multivariate relationships between dRPE measures investigating the sources of intra and inter-individual variation, and the effects of maturation and bio-banding. Using 32 highly trained under (U) 12 to U14 soccer players (mean (SD) age 12.9 (0.9) years, body mass 46.4 (8.5) kg and stature 158.2 (14.9) cm) academy soccer players from two English professional male soccer academies. Players were categorised according to somatic maturity status using estimated percentage of adult stature attainment, with players randomly assigned into teams to play 4v4 SSG. The study used a repeated measures design, whereby the selected players participated within 6 bio-banded (maturity matched [pre-PHV Vs pre-PHV and post-PHV vs post PHV] and miss-matched [pre-PHV vs post-PHV] and 6 mixed maturity SSG at their respective clubs. Using mixed and fixed effect regression models, it was established hat pre-PHV players exhibited higher dRPE compared with their post-PHV counterparts. Mixed bio-banded games reported higher dRPE outputs overall. Variation in dRPE measures across a series of bio-banded games are caused by both between and within sources of variation in relatively equal amounts. Across a series of bio-banded games, the four dRPE measures do not provide unique information, and between variation is best expressed by one or two highly correlated components, with within variation best explained by a single equally loaded component. Using a bio-banding SSG design study, we have shown that pre-PHV players report higher subjective measures of exertion than post-PHV players during. Additionally, when evenly mixing players based on measures of maturation, higher measures of perceived exertion were generally reported.


Surgical resection of pancreatic carcinoma has long represented the only viable option for a potential cure of pancreas cancer. The use of adjuvant chemotherapy post-resection has been established in treating micro metastases and prolonging disease-free survival. However, studies of neoadjuvant therapy have not come to any definitive conclusion regarding the overall efficacy of such treatment, despite the theoretical benefits. In this review, we examine the historical precedent as well as the current state of affairs regarding neoadjuvant therapy in resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In addition, we review the definitions for resectable and borderline resectable disease and highlight key areas of clinical investigation in the field and summarize the major ongoing neoadjuvant studies focused on resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma.


A new statistical method for systematizing the nuclei fission fragments, investigation of their mass and charge spectra and neutron fission parameters has been suggested. In proposed method, the mass and charge yields of nucleons are determined from the equilibrium conditions of the nuclear fragments post-fission ensemble. Here we consider protons and neutrons of different fragments as statistically non-equivalent. The abilities of the proposed statistical method for explanation of the U, Pa, Th, Ac and Ra post-fission fragments ordering and neutron emission function calculation have been demonstrated.


Through the Rougon-Macquart series and the cases described in the last volume (Le Docteur Pascal, 1893), clinical analysis of the 58 characters identifies only seven neurotics and six alcoholics (only three of whom were Rougon-Macquart by birth). All the other illness described are unrelated to hysteria in the family. It remains true, however, that Zola's interpretation of hereditary degeneracy follows that of contemporary medical teaching, as witnessed by the genealogics published by Charcot in 1893. Through the voice of Dr. Pascal, however, Zola does challenge the concepts of heredity advanced by his medical advisors: he envisages the concepts of dominance and recessiveness without devising any general scheme for the transmission of hereditary characteristics, but eight years before Vries he advanced the idea of mutations, which he interprets as accidents occurring at the beginning of the ovum's development. When faced by the lack of success of his opotherapy of degenerative diseases, Pascal initiates trials versus a placebo and puts forward a highly coherent theory of what we would now call the placebo effect. It appears, therefore, that contrary to the opinion of most commentators, Emile Zola was in fact capable of a remarkable subtleness when he ventured into medicine. Through Dr Pascal Rougon, and notwithstanding the mockery of Flaubert, Goncourt and France (and of many others), he was a brilliant trail-blazer in the fields of genetics and therapeutics. Six years later he was to strike again with Dr Boutan, who invented what we now know as the prophylactic care of mothers and children (Fécondité, 1898).


Abstract Abstract Mental illness accounts for high levels of morbidity, mortality and poor quality of life among young people. Depression, anxiety, conduct issues and hyperactive disorder account for 13% of the global burden of disease that affects one in seven adolescents. In Kenya, not much is documented about the mental health of non-school-going adolescents, and yet they make up about 1.8 million of the country's population. An ethnographic study by Focus Group Discussions with 32 rural northern Kenya Turkana-based adolescents divided into school and nonschool groups was conducted. We read out vignettes in which the main character exhibited symptoms of depression, schizophrenia or anxiety and explored their knowledge of causes and management options for the same, and then analyzed the data thematically. Participants described the conditions without referring to the local names we had collected earlier: depression (Akiyalolong), schizophrenia (waarit/Ngikerep) and anxiety (Ngatameta naaronok). They assigned curses, guilt, hunger pangs, and evil spells as causes, and believed friends and age-mates, parents, teachers, and the local chief, among others, could help, but rarely medical intervention. Interventions to improve the adolescent's knowledge of mental illness are a much-needed support for the health of young people.


Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of cesarean delivery (CD) on offspring risk for long-term cardiovascular morbidity. Study design A population-based cohort analysis was performed, including all singleton term deliveries occurring between 1991 and 2014 at a single tertiary medical center. A comparison was performed between children delivered via CD and those delivered vaginally. Fetuses with cardiac or other congenital malformations were excluded, as were cases of urgent CD and pregnancies involving preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, placenta previa, labor induction, fetal growth restriction, preterm PROM, and instrumental deliveries. Hospitalizations of the offspring up to 18 years of age involving cardiovascular morbidity were compared between the two study groups. A Kaplan–Meier survival curve compared cumulative cardiovascular morbidity incidence and a Cox regression model controlled for confounders. Results Of the 132,054 term deliveries who met the inclusion criteria; 8.9% were CDs (n = 11,746) and 91.1% (n = 120,308) were vaginal deliveries. Cardiovascular hospitalization incidence per 1000 person follow up years was 0.742 in the CD group and 0.054 in the comparison group (HR = 1.3, 95%CI 1.051–1.710, p = .018). The Kaplan–Meier survival curve demonstrated a significantly higher cumulative incidence of cardiovascular morbidity following CD (log rank p = .018). In the Cox proportional hazards model, CD was noted as an independent risk factor for offspring long-term pediatric cardiovascular morbidity (adjusted HR = 1.295, CI 1.005–1.668, p = .04) when controlling for maternal age, obesity, ethnicity, gestational age, newborn gender, low birthweight, maternal preexisting cardiovascular disease, and deliveries occurring after 2008. Conclusion Singletons delivered by CD at term have an increased risk of long-term cardiovascular morbidity.


Combining embodied cognition theory and exploring innovative forms of interaction in the context of smart manufacturing, a Chinese Fan Museum science popularization interactive device was designed to provide an embodied experience. A usability evaluation model is constructed for the interactive device to evaluate the usability of the device, which will help to improve the product in the early and middle stages of its development and identify usability problems. Embodied cognition theory is applied to the interactive design of the museum science popularization information. Kansei Engineering evaluation and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process are used to evaluate and analyze the usability of the product. A usability evaluation system was constructed. The results show that the overall usability of the product is between good and excellent, and is satisfactory to users. It is feasible to explore the design of museum science popularization interaction with embodied cognition theory, and the evaluation system constructed for this product can also provide an accurate evaluation of the usability of the product and provide a reference for product upgrading and innovation.


We examine the problem of construction of confidence intervals within the basic single-parameter, single-iteration variation of the method of quasi-optimal weights. Two kinds of distortions of such intervals due to insufficiently large samples are examined, both allowing an analytical investigation. First, a criterion is developed for validity of the assumption of asymptotic normality together with a recipe for the corresponding corrections. Second, a method is derived to take into account the systematic shift of the confidence interval due to the non-linearity of the theoretical mean of the weight as a function of the parameter to be estimated. A numerical example illustrates the two corrections.


Nanostructured semiconductor materials feature excellent next generation photovoltaic application. Among this class of materials the most impressive results have been obtained from low dimensional PbSe such as PbSe QDs or NCs. To date, PbSe QDs arguably the best choice to generate multiple excitions from single absorbed photon and fast hot electron transfer from active layer to counter electrode. However, in most of the works, synthesis of PbSe QDs is based on chemical method of preparation. The thesis demonstrates quantum confinement effect of PbSe by physical method of preparation through MQW approach utilizing ZnSe as a barrier material. The thesis also demonstrates a simple thermal evaporation technique can be used to prepare MQW structures with well-defined periodic nature. PbSe/ZnSe MQW structures with different quantum well thicknesses (Lz) ranges from 2.5 to 10 nm with the interval of 2.5 nm were prepared by simple thermal evaporation technique. The numbers of QW periods were varied between 5 and 20 while the thickness of barrier layer was maintained as 25 nm in all the MQW structures. The layer thicknesses were monitored and controlled using an in-situ quartz crystal thickness monitor. The transmission electron microscopy images with cross section showed good periodicity on thermally evaporated PbSe/ZnSe MQW structures. Cross sectional TEM images also evident for number of periods and thickness of the QW iv and barrier layers. Lattice fringes in the high resolution TEM images were correlated with standard d-spacing values of the materials. The Selected area electron diffraction pattern was evident the multi-crystalline nature of the samples which was well in agreement with XRD pattern. Phase analysis of the PbSe/ZnSe MQW structures along with reference PbSe and ZnSe thin films were studied from XRD pattern. All the MQW structure showed strong Bragg diffraction corresponds to ZnSe crystallographic phase. Increasing QW thickness and periods showed diffraction corresponds to PbSe (2 0 0) plane. The average crystalline size of PbSe varied between 4 and 6 nm while of ZnSe was varied between 11 and 14 nm. Raman scattering was employed for PbSe/ZnSe MQW structures together with reference ZnSe and PbSe thin films. Raman shift towards lower frequency region was observed in all the PbSe/ZnSe MQW structures in response with reference ZnSe. The broadening of Raman modes with significant shift in the spectra show stress induced quantum confinement in the MQW structures. Optical absorption spectra revealed quantum confinement effect as a function of Lz and QW periods. The absorption onset of the MQW structure lies in between reference ZnSe and PbSe thin films indicating the formation of type-I QW structure. The absorption onset exhibits a progressive blue shift when Lz decreases from 10 nm to 2.5 nm. All absorption features along with the sharp absorption edge are shifted towards higher energy with decreasing Lz reflects a quantum confinement effect. Quantum confinement effect was also confirmed from the infinite potential well approximation. Micro PL spectrum of ZnSe showed a strong PL emission at 2.23 eV associated with radiative recombination of electrons localized at ground state. The sub-band transition corresponds to PbSe QW was observed at lower energy region together with 1Es emission of ZnSe in Lz=2.5 nm which result from the formation of 2D PbSe/ZnSe MQWs. For Lz=10 nm, there is no emission corresponds to PbSe was observed together with 1Es of ZnSe. Quantum size effect was also confirmed upon reduction of 2D PbSe layers by rapid thermal annealing. QWs with Lz=2.5 nm and Lz=10 nm show the formation of PbSe NCs and nanoclusters, respectively observed from cross sectional TEM images. In both PbSe NCs and nanoclusters, the observed blue shift in optical absorption and emission indicate the strong quantum confinement effect.


Despite continuing interest in the proximate energetic constraints on individual variation in behavior, there is presently equivocal evidence for correlations between metabolism and behavior at the among‐individual level. Possible reasons for this include imprecise estimates of individual mean behavior and metabolism due to no repeated measures on one or more of the traits, analyses that do not take into account the labile nature of these traits and the uncertainty in individual estimates, and changing environmental conditions not accounted for. In this empirical study, we repeatedly measured activity rates and resting metabolic rates (RMR) of individual male mosquitofish over an extended period, lasting several months under constant laboratory conditions. Repeatability of each trait was significant (RMR: R = .41; activity: R = .72), indicating consistent variation among individuals, making covariance between them possible. Contrary to expectations, bivariate mixed model analysis revealed that more active individuals had lower RMR (r = −.58) after accounting for mass effects and other covariates. This result suggests that high activity rates require individuals to allocate less energy toward maintenance, and thus provides evidence for the "allocation" model of energy management. We suggest that it would be valuable to study whether and how behavior‐RMR correlations change over individual lifetime, a topic that has yet to be addressed.


The mathematical formalism for linear quantum field theory on curved spacetime depends in an essential way on the assumption of global hyperbolicity. Physically, what lie at the foundation of any formalism for quantization in curved spacetime are the canonical commutation relations, imposed on the field operators evaluated at a global Cauchy surface. In the algebraic formulation of linear quantum field theory, the canonical commutation relations are restated in terms of a well-defined symplectic structure on the space of smooth solutions, and the local field algebra is constructed as the Weyl algebra associated to this symplectic vector space. When spacetime is not globally hyperbolic, e.g. when it contains naked singularities or closed time-like curves, a global Cauchy surface does not exist, and there is no obvious way to formulate the canonical commutation relations, hence no obvious way to construct the field algebra. In a paper which appears elsewhere in this journal, we report on a generalization of the algebraic framework for quantum field theory to arbitrary topological spaces which do not necessarily have a spacetime metric defined on them at the outset. Taking this generalization as a starting point, in this paper we give a prescription for constructing the field algebra of a (massless or massive) Klein--Gordon field on an arbitrary background spacetime. When spacetime is globally hyperbolic, the theory defined by our construction coincides with the ordinary Klein--Gordon field theory on a globally hyperbolic background. We explore some basic features of our generalized Klein--Gordon theory on arbitrary spacetimes, and study its specific properties on simple examples of non-globally-hyperbolic backgrounds that contain closed time-like curves or naked singularities.


The hydrogeological condition of a region is determined by the type of lithology, morphology, and subsurface conditions where the condition is very helpful in the study of groundwater exploration. Especially when we encounter interesting geological conditions when the groundwater exploration in the karst area in which volcanic rocks are resulting from the activities of the active volcano in the past. Groundwater exploration at Ponjong area and surrounding does have its special characteristics, because it has 2 different rock characteristics where the northern part of the research area in the form of a karst area (limestone of Wonosari Formation) while the southern part is an area of ancient volcanoes with dominant volcanic rocks from Wuni Formation, As for the research on the above and subsurface research area where the research is conducted based on surface geology mapping, geoelectric data collection, and groundwater sampling. Geological mapping includes geomorphological data, stratigraphy, and geological structure. The aquifer system of the research area can be divided into two systems, inter-grain aquifer systems, and fracture aquifer systems. Overall quality groundwater in the research area is quite good. Ponjong District there are mining activities that have resulted in changes in the land use system in the area. This can cause changes in the water surplus in the area due to the changing catchment area.


In recent years, there has been increased discussion and even debate about how to reconcile a commitment to the ethical conduct of research in the social and behavioral sciences with a regulatory apparatus for the protection of human subjects that seems too often to fall short of its own aspirations and ideals. The gap between regulations and their implementation whether at the federal, state, or local levels is typically grist for the mill in political science. When, however, the issues are more in our own backyard—in our academic and research institutions—insight, interventions, and even empirical study are harder to come by. The purpose of this essay is neither to applaud what is right nor to decry what is wrong with the current system for the protection of human subjects as practiced. Our goal is to help further catalyze through this PS symposium a conversation about the need to produce system reform, illustrate some readily doable steps for doing so, and entice social science colleagues to work at their own institutions and at a national level for system change.


Background: CD4 count is the best predictor for disease status and immediate risk of death and thus should be used to identify those who have advanced HIV disease. The aim of this study to investigating the basic factors of CD4cell count and assessing the progression of CD4cell count among HIV positive adults those they were attending university of Gondar Referral ART clinic, since December 2012 up to December 2017. Subjects and Methods: Since, the outcome variable was measured repeatedly through time and measurements within the patient were correlated. Such type of data requires a special types of modeling strategy, there for longitudinal data analysis plays a major role on such type of data analysis. Linear mixed model with unstructured correlation matrix were used to model the data in this study by including fixed and random factors on the model. Results: From the total of 216 Study subjects were followed retrospectively 61.08% and 38.92 were females and males respectively. The maximum number of observation per subject was 10 and the minimum and maximum CD4cell counts were 65 and 1440 respectively. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the study religion (orthodox, and Muslim), weight, baseline CD4cell count, time, TB screen positive, hemoglobin level, regimen type (d4t-3TC-NVP and AZT-3TC-NVP)and the interaction effect of time with baseline CD4count was significant predictors of CD4count. We would like to recommend for the patients must be, punctual, initiated to ART with high base line CD4count and hemoglobin level.


On innumerable occasions, Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae) and emperor penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri) have been observed in close proximity to killer whales (Orcinus orca), with no whale-penguin interactions reported. On the other hand, killer whales reportedly harass and eat seabirds on occasion (Walker 1968: p. 1122, Stacey et al. 1990, Williams et al. 1990). Killer whales are known to prey on young king penguins (A. patagonica) as they are fledging (Guinet 1992, Guinet & Bouvier 1995) and occasionally take emperor penguins (Mikhalev et al. 1981). Thomas et al. (1981) report killer whales chasing Adélies. Here we report the only observations of Adélie-killer whale interactions observed in nine field seasons on Ross Island.


Background Uncommon epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations consist of a heterogeneous population of molecular alterations, and the available clinical data on the outcomes of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring uncommon EGFR mutations following afatinib treatment are limited. The purpose of this pooled analysis was to investigate the clinicopathological features of patients with uncommon EGFR mutations (um-EGFRms) along with their treatment response and survival outcomes following afatinib treatment. Methods We performed a literature search in the NCBI PubMed database to identify relevant articles and conducted this pooled analysis based on 70 studies. The relationships between patient clinical characteristics, EGFR mutation type and the response to afatinib treatment were analyzed using univariate chi-square analysis, and survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method. Results Data from a total of 99 patients were included in the pooled analysis. The objective response rate (ORR) to treatment with afatinib was53.5%, with a median progression-free survival (mPFS) of 9.0 months. For patients administered first-line afatinib treatment, the ORR and median PFS were 73.5% and 15.6 months, respectively, which were both superior to those of patients treated with second- or later-line treatments (ORR:37.0%, p < 0.001; mPFS: 6.0months, p = 0.001). Moreover, patients with a single um-EGFRm were more likely to have a favorable response and prognosis benefit after treatment with afatinib than patients with multiple one (ORR: 63.3% vs 38.5%, p=0.017; mPFS: 15.6 months vs 6.0 months,p=0.010). Moreover, single um-EGFRm were independent predictive factors for better treatment response and superior PFS. Subgroup analysis indicated that patients harboring major um-EGFRms (i.e., L861Q, G719X, and S768I) exhibited the best treatment responses and prognoses (ORR: 74.1%, mPFS: 15.6 months), by contrast, patients harboring multiple um-EGFRms comprising 19del/L858R had the worst treatment responses and prognoses (ORR: 23.5%, mPFS: 5.6months). Conclusions Patients with um-EGFRms exhibit favorable but inconsistent responses and survival outcomes following afatinib treatment, which closely related to the mutation pattern and cooccurring partner mutant genes. Administering afatinib for the treatment of patients with um-EGFRm might be considered an effective treatment option in some circumstances, but this recommendation requires further clinical studies for verification.


Human blood was infused through a gas permeable membrane to determine if treatment with nitric oxide affects the signal intensity of its T1-weighted magnetic resonance image. Equal volumes of blood with increasing concentrations of methemoglobin were placed in glass tubes. T1-weighted images of the samples were obtained with a 1.5T magnetic resonance scanner. There was a linear correlation between the signal intensity of the T1-weighted images and the amount of methemoglobin in each sample (r2 = 0.94, p = 0.0015). Thus, blood that has been treated with nitric oxide can potentially be used as an autologous intravascular contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging.


Exposure to adversity during the first years of life might already be biologically embedded well before adult life. Thus, the impact of different stressful experiences needs to be explored. This study aims to examine if the association between being victimized (adverse childhood experiences—ACEs and bullying) and (hs-) C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is explained by the influence of adversity on the body mass index (BMI) of the child. We included children from the Portuguese birth cohort Generation XXI (n = 3712) that at 10 years of age completed a questionnaire on the exposure to ACEs and bullying victimization, assessed by an adaptation from the original ACEs study and an adaptation of The Bully Scale Survey, respectively. Following an overnight fast, a venous blood sample was collected by trained nurses and hs-CRP was assayed in fresh blood samples. Weight and height were measured with the child in underwear and bare feet. Weight was measured to the nearest one-tenth of a kilogram with the use of a digital scale (Tanita), and height was measured to the nearest one-tenth of a centimetre with the use of a wall stadiometer (seca®). BMI was calculated as the value of weight (kg) over squared height (m), and computed as an age- and sex-specific BMI standard deviation (SD) score (z-score), according to the World Health Organization Child Growth Standards (5–19 years). Regression coefficients and respective 95% Confidence Interval [β(95%CI)] were computed using path analysis. We observed that ACEs had a positive total effect on hs-CRP at the age of 10 years (β = 0.06; 95%CI: -0.02; 0.15). A direct effect (β = 0.02; 95%CI: -0.01; 0.06) accounted for 66.1% of the association between ACEs and hs-CRP. A positive total effect of bullying victimization on hs-CRP (β = 0.20; 95%CI: 0.06; 0.34) was observed. A direct effect (β = 0.08; 95%CI: -0.05; 0.21) accounted for 40.0% of the association, while an indirect effect through BMI (β = 0.12; 95%CI: 0.06; 0.18) explained 60.0% of the pathway between bullying victimization and hs-CRP. Results suggest that there might be different mechanisms involved in the biological embedding of childhood experiences. BMI seems to explain a great part of the association between exposure to bullying victimization and hs-CRP at 10 years of age. Further research is still needed to better understand the mechanisms explaining the emergence and persistence of health poorer outcomes later in life for victims of abuse.


This case describes and compares the growth strategies, the concrete growth initiatives and the resulting corporate competitiveness of the two main British grocery businesses: Sainsbury's and Tesco. It starts in 1990, when Sainsbury's was the clear market leader way ahead of Tesco and ends in 2008, when Tesco reached a market share of about 30% in the UK, roughly the same as its rivals Sainsbury's and ASDA (a Wal-Mart subsidiary) combined. Today, Tesco is not any more a mere UK retailer but an international business providing telephony, financial services, legal services, books, music, and electrical goods. This case is designed to serve the following teaching objectives: (1) to discuss the appropriateness of different growth initiatives based on the comprehensive description of the competitive growth strategies and the resulting corporate competitiveness of two competitors; (2) to analyze possible reasons for more or less successful growth strategies; (3) to see how firms can combine different growth strategies and growth mechanisms in a successful portfolio or bundle of growth initiatives; and (4) to learn about the retail sector, specifically food retailing in the UK. This case is aimed at MBA students and is intended to be part of the strategic management curriculum. It includes a detailed teaching note.


Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL

β-Catenin, a multifunctional protein involved in key molecule of Wnt signaling transduction, has been well known to regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, cell-cell adhesion, survival, and apoptosis as well as plays an important role in human tumorigenesis. Our previous report showed that Wnt/β-catenin pathway controls radiosensitivity of head and neck caner (HNC) cell via cyclooxygenase-2-mediated Ku expression. However, the specific molecular mechanisms of β-catenin in tumor cell survival and death are still not fully understood, so in the present study we attempted to elucidate the mechanism of cell death in HNC cell by studying how β-catenin silencing regulates cell death through KB1/AMPK signaling. We performed β-catenin knockdown in HNC cell by using small interfering RNA. Its effect on the cell viability was confirmed by observation of cell morphologic change, electron microscopy, MTT and FACS analysis. Also, we confirmed the expression of several proteins corresponding signal pathway by western blot analysis. β-catenin silencing significantly induced G1 cell-cycle arrest and also increased the expression of Bax and the active form of caspase-3, and decreased the expression of Bcl-2, demonstrating the sequential activation of apoptotic cascades following treatment with β-catenin siRNA in HNC cell. Interestingly, β-catenin silencing induced autophagy as well as apoptosis. We confirmed that the numbers of autophagic vacuoles and the expression of LC3-II increased in cells treated with β-catenin siRNA. This is probably because LKB1-dependent AMPK is activated by β-catenin silencing in HNC cell. Activated AMPK, in β-catenin silenced AMC-HN-3 cells, causes a G1 cell cycle arrest by phosphorylated p53 as well as inhibited protein synthesis by suppressing mTOR activity. Also, Treatment with LKB1 siRNA or compound C in AMC-HN-3 cells preserved cell viability against β-catenin silencing-induced cytotoxicity. Taken together, our data show that β-catenin silencing induces cell death through LKB1/AMPK signal, and as a result, apoptosis and autophagy are induced together in HNC cell, suggesting that a novel interaction between β-catenin and LKB1/AMPK signaling pathway occurs. Our study provides new insights into understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms involving β-catenin silencing-induced cell death.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2283. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2283


Despite the importance of military leaders in moderating the impact of deployment stressors on unit members, little attention has focused on the training leaders receive in managing unit stress. As part of a NATO Research Panel (Human Factors and Medicine (HFM)-081/Research and Technology Organization Task Group (RTG)), 16 nations participated in a needs assessment survey of military leaders who had returned from an operation within the previous 2 years. Findings from 172 leaders emphasized the lack of training specifically geared for leaders to address operational stress issues for unit members and their families and the need for integrated mental health support across the deployment cycle. In general, most leaders regarded stress-related mental health problems as normal and were supportive of help-seeking. The information obtained here was used to develop a Human Factors and Medicine -081/RTG Leader's Guide on operational stress.


Active landslides have three major effects on a landscape: 1. land cover change, 2. topographical change, and 3. above ground biomass change. Data derived from multi-temporal Light Detection and Ranging technology (LiDAR) is used in combination with multi-temporal orthophotos to quantify changes between 2006 and 2012, caused by a landslide near Doren in Austria. Data synergy is used to optimize accuracies of land cover change, and to improve results of topographical change analysis and aboveground biomass estimations. Topographical change is calculated using differencing of digital terrain models. The above ground biomass is quantified by applying a local-maximum algorithm for tree top detection, in combination with allometric equations. The land cover change classification accuracies were improved from 65% (using only LiDAR) and 76% (using only orthophotos) to 90% (using synergy) for 2006. A similar increase from respectively 64% and 75% to 91% was established for 2012. The results of the improved land cover classifications were used to optimize the topographical and above ground biomass change calculations. Fine-scale improvements of the classifications included forest edges and shadows, small open spots in the vegetation, and confusion between land cover classes. The enhanced accuracies of the land cover change analysis demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages of using synergy of LiDAR and orthophotos using OBIA. The method has great potential to be transferred to larger areas for use in monitoring, although data size calls for workflows to operate on cloud-based infrastructures that provide sufficient computational power.


Adolescent sexual risk behavior is a serious and prevalent problem among American youth. Mothers may play a key role in discussing sex and sexual risk behavior with their adolescent children. However, mothers may lack the knowledge and skills to successfully communicate. The purpose of this study was to develop a Web site to teach mothers how to communicate with their children about sex and to demonstrate the efficacy of this Web-based program. This pilot study included 35 rural, low-income mothers of middle-school adolescents. Mothers were randomly assigned to either the Web-based experimental group or written information-only control group. Mothers in the experimental group received computers and Internet access to the Web-based program, peer support, and expert advice from a pediatric nurse practitioner. Major findings of the study were that the Web-based intervention was equally effective at improving mothers' knowledge, communication skills, and self-efficacy as the written material control and that low-income rural women who have had little to no prior experience with computers can effectively learn Web-based health-related information. Future implications for nursing are discussed.


Creating innovative products is vital for the success of enterprises. Markets change constantly and force engineering departments to shorten innovation cycles. To be competitive, a methodical approach for systematic innovation is needed. One promising way to achieve this goal is to base development processes on functional modelling. In this paper, an overview of existing functional modelling approaches is laid out and advantages as well as disadvantages are discussed. Koller's methodology is presented in detail as it is highly suitable for systematic innovation. Although several methods seem to be published and well-documented, they currently are not widely adopted in industrial use. Reasons for this shortage are elaborated. An improved methodology for working with functions, physical effects and the morphological box is introduced. Different single aspects like disadvantages with the paper-based use of effect catalogues or the incorporation of magnitude influence with the composition of physical effects are shown. An implementation of a software prototype and its evolution is given. Thoughts on further improvement of both methodology and tool conclude the paper.


Following the military to civilian transition in 1999, Nigeria had four civilian to civilian transitions between 2003 and 2015. The system still leaves much to be desired. In spite of its democratic claims, corruption, infrastructural deficit, rising poverty, and institutional inadequacies still persist in Nigeria. While democracy ushered in relative freedom and considerable exercise of civil rights, it has fallen short of citizen expectations on the economic fronts - thus, resulting in hopelessness and general youth restiveness. The populace has endured disappointments from representative institutions, which seem to be faltering in guaranteeing improved life chances for most people. The widespread institutional failure amidst allegations of non-judicious use of public funds underscores the desirability of a paradigm shift to enhance good governance. This paper interrogates Nigeria's Fourth Republic, 1999-2015, with the objective of establishing the nexus between institutional effectiveness and democratic consolidation. Leveraging on library and archival searches, it calls attention to the desirability of virile representative institutions and active government-citizens engagement in the nation's renewed bid to engender popular participation. The paper reiterates that the various structures of the Nigerian political system, governmental and nongovernmental, and their well articulated roles and responsibilities are crucial in the consolidation of the representative content of the system of rule, and improvement in the well-being of the populace. This, therefore, calls for synergy and constructive engagements among all stakeholders beyond the extant statutory institutional checks and balances.


Objective: Health is nothing but a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing not merely the absence of disease. Health depends on life style and requires the promotion of healthy life style. Health is both a consequence of an individual's life style and factors in determining it. Working pattern or type of work has long been known to influence human health specially. The present study was under taken to evaluate the body status and physiological stress and occupational health hazards of the female workers. Methods: According to the work load the working group was classified in to low physical work group (LPWG) and the moderate type of physical work group (MPWG). Eighty women (forty in each group), excluding pregnant women, were selected from the municipal area of Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, India, aged between 20 to 40 years. The anthropometric measurement and skin fold thickness were taken, from which the body mass index (BMI) and fat percentage were determined. The blood pressure of all the   subjects was taken by mercury sphygmomanometer at resting condition. The occupational health hazards were determined by questionnaire technique. Result: The result indicates that the MPWG workers suffer in significantly (p<0.001) low weight, BMI and Fat% than that of the LPWG workers. The MPWG workers also suffer from significantly (p<0.001) higher percentage of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) at neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, finger, cuff and feet-ankle joint. MPWG workers, hemoglobin concentration also significantly (p<0.01) lower than that of the LPWG workers. Conclusion: It may be concluded that, this study is helpful to identify the risk factor for the occurrence of different cardiovascular as well as musculoskeletal abnormalities and accordingly prevention program, regarding proper food habit be undertaken. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v4i1.12166


As part of a whole egg, egg white proteins are embedded in a lipid matrix that could modify their presentation to the immune system and their allergenic properties. The present study examines the impact of the main egg lipid components, triacylglycerides and phospholipids, in the early events of sensitization to egg. To this end, BALB/c mice were exposed intragastrically to egg lipids and egg lipid fractions, alone and in mixtures with egg white proteins, and Th2-promoting and proinflammatory effects were investigated. Our results highlight that the egg lipid fraction is responsible for Th2 adjuvant effects and point at a different influence of triacylglycerides and phospholipids on the bioavailability and immunomodulating properties of egg white proteins. While triacylglycerides promote type 2 responses at the small intestine level, phospholipids reduce the solubility of EW proteins and induce Th2 skewing in lymphoid intestinal tissues, which may have a direct impact on the development of egg allergy.


This paper presents the investigation of aerodynamic performance of inboard Store-X and Store-Y configurations on the X-plane aircraft model through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis. The X-plane and Store-Y represent the default store and pylon integration while Store-X provides a possibility for other types of store to be integrated. These stores are loosely based upon the two most commonly used by the western and eastern blocks. The resultant lift, drag and moment forces are of interest in order to observe their impact with respect to the two different stores configurations. The finding shows that the aerodynamic impact with respect to Store-X installation on the inboard pylon station is insignificant when compared to default system, hence offers the safety of delivering the Store-X from the X-plane aircraft.


Like many public service workers, politicians must manage the emotions of others as well as themselves in order to facilitate cooperation or goal accomplishment. Coined by Arlie Hochschild, this type of work is known as emotional labour. This article analyses a unique data set on the emotional labour and occupational wellbeing of over 500 elected politicians in the United Kingdom to understand how this important feature of public service plays out in political office. On one hand, all three facets of emotional labour (emotion work, personal efficacy, and false-face acting) are found to be prevalent among elected politicians, with self-reported levels of emotional labour differing among men and women. On the other hand, emotion work and personal efficacy appear to improve job satisfaction and occupational pride among politicians, but false-face acting increases symptoms of occupational burnout. These findings raise important questions about the nature of political institutions and the sustainability of political work.


To mitigate the systemic adverse effects of tofacitinib, 5-ASA-PABA-MAC and 5-ASA-PABA-diamine colon-specific delivery systems were constructed, and tofacitinib azo prodrugs 9 and 20a-20g were synthesized accordingly. The release studies suggested that these systems could effectively release tofacitinib in vitro, and the 5-ASA-PABA-diamine system could successfully realize the colon targeting of tofacitinib in vivo. Specifically, compound 20g displayed a 3.67-fold decrease of plasma AUC(tofacitinib, 0-∞) and a 9.61-fold increase of colonic AUC(tofacitinib, 0-12h), compared with tofacitinib at a molar equivalent oral dose. Moreover, mouse models suggested that compound 20g (1.5 mg/kg) could achieve roughly the same efficacy against ulcerative colitis compared with tofacitinib (10 mg/kg) and did not impair natural killer cells. These results demonstrated the feasibility of compound 20g as an effective alternative to mitigate the systemic adverse effects of tofacitinib, and 5-ASA-PABA-MAC and 5-ASA-PABA-diamine systems were proven to be effective for colon-specific drug delivery.


External fixators are highly versatile orthopedic devices. They can replace plates and intramedullary nails in many situations. They are inexpensive, easy to apply, and the surgical time required to install them is often much less than what is needed to place a plate or an intramedullary nail. These devices have proven to be very effective to counteract the mechanical forces produced in the focus of the fracture. This article aims to describe five cases that illustrate the usefulness of this device in orthopedic surgery of small species.


The DNA fragmentation factor 45 (DFF45/ICAD) is a key subunit of a heterodimeric DNase complex critical for the induction of DNA fragmentation during apoptosis in vivo. To further assess the importance of DFF45 in chromosomal DNA degradation, we induced apoptosis in wild-type control and DFF45 deficient thymocytes and compared the cleavage of chromosomal DNA to 50 kilobase pair size fragments. We found that there is a lack of obvious large chromosomal DNA fragments upon treatments by various apoptotic agents in DFF45 deficient thymocytes. The major organ systems in the DFF45 mutant mice either two months or fifteen months of age appear normal. These results suggest that functional DFF45 is required for cleavage of DNA into both large size and oligonucleosomal size fragments in thymocytes during apoptosis. However, deficiency in DFF45 apparently does not significantly affect normal mouse development and tissue homeostasis.


We demonstrate a high-average-power continuous wave (cw) and cw mode-locked Cr3+ :LiCAF laser pumped by broad-area laser diodes. In cw lasing experiments, up to 580 mW of output was obtained with 4.35 W of incident pump. A semiconductor saturable absorber mirror was used to initiate stable, self-starting, mode locking. In the cw mode-locked regime, the Cr3+ :LiCAF laser produced nearly transform-limited, 67 fs long pulses near 800 nm with an average output power of 300 mW. The pulse repetition rate was 120 MHz, with a pulse energy of 2.5 nJ.


A fed-batch fermentation integrated with filtration process was proceeded in a synthetic medium with the use of a hollow-fibre membrane filter. The activity of alpha A interferon reached 1.4 x 10(9) u/L, which was increased 320% over that of a control process. The integrated process was then proceeded in the synthetic medium supplemented with yeast extract during the earlier stage. The addition of yeast extract not only reduced the accumulation of acetate, but also promoted the production of alpha A interferon. The maximum activity achieved 1.9 x 10(9) u/L during the fermentation, which was increased 480% over that of a normal process.


The absolute shortage of compatible liver donors and the growing number of potential recipients have led scientists to explore alternative approaches to providing tissue/ organ substitutes from bioengineered sources. Bioartificial regeneration of a fully functional tissue/organ replacement is highly dependent on the right combination of engineering tools, biological principles, and materiobiology horizons. Over the past two decades, remarkable achievements have been made in hepatic tissue engineering by converging various advanced interdisciplinary research approaches. Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has arisen as a promising state-of-the-art tool with strong potential to fabricate volumetric liver tissue/organ equivalents using viscosity- and degradation-controlled printable bioinks composed of hydrous microenvironments, and formulations containing living cells and associated supplements. Source of origin, biophysiochemical, or thermomechanical properties and crosslinking reaction kinetics are prerequisites for ideal bioink formulation and realizing the bioprinting process. In this review, we delve into the forecast of the potential future utility of bioprinting technology and the promise of tissue/organ- specific decellularized biomaterials as bioink substrates. Afterward, we outline various methods of decellularization, and the most relevant studies applying decellularized bioinks toward the bioengineering of in vitro liver models. Finally, the challenges and future prospects of decellularized material-based bioprinting in the direction of clinical regenerative medicine are presented to motivate further developments.


The MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) process is used in a micro/nano pattern manufacturing method. This method is based on the lithography technology. But the MEMS process has some problems such as complicated process, long processing time and high production costs. Many researchers are doing research in substitute manufacturing method to work out a solution to these problems. In this paper, we apply a dieless incremental forming technology to a substitute method of MEMS process. This dieless forming technology is using in the commercial scale sheet forming such as a prototype of automobile sheet parts. 5-axes CNC (Computerized Numeric Control) method are applied in this system to get a micro-scale dieless forming results. These 5-axes system are composed of precision AC servo motor stages (4-axes) and PZT actuator (1-axis). A PZT actuator is used in a precision actuating axis because it can be operated in the nano scale stroke resolution. This micro dieless incremental forming system has the advantage of minimization in manipulating distance and working space. As equipment and tools become smaller in size, minute inertia force and high natural frequency can be obtained. Therefore, high precision forming performance can be obtained. This allows the factory to quickly provide the customer with goods because the manufacturing system and process are reduced. To construct this micro manufacturing system, many technologies are necessary such as high stiffness frame, high precision actuating part, structural analysis, high precision tools and system control. To achieve the optimal forming quality, the micro dieless forming system is designed and made with high stiffness characteristic.Copyright © 2007 by ASME


Even 33 years after the discovery of electrical switching in chalcogenide glasses, a complete understanding of the mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon is lacking. It is believed that threshold switching in chalcogenide glasses is electronic in origin whereas memory switching is of thermal origin. According to the thermal model, the ON state during memory switching is caused by a thermal breakdown of the steady state of the material when the heat generated by Joule heating cannot be removed fast enough by thermal conduction. Joule heating causes crystallization of the glass into fine filaments resulting in excess carrier concentration in the current path due to the large electric field present. Even though electrical conductivity and related properties of a number of materials have been investigated during and after switching, no measurements seem to have been done to determine the variation in thermal conductivity and related properties during switching. In this paper we report the results of our measurements of thermal conductivity and heat capacity of In–Te glasses, which exhibit clear memory type electrical switching at threshold fields in 80–140 V cm−1 range. Measurements have been made on bulk samples using an improved photothermal technique. Results show that thermal conductivity of the samples increase considerably during electrical switching, whereas heat capacity remains more or less constant. The results are discussed in the light of the thermal model for memory switching applicable to Te-based chalcogenide glasses.


The LudiMoodle project aims to adapt game elements integrated into the Moodle learning environment to help motivate learners. we designed a robotic activity to teach the grapheme (shape) and the ductus (the way to draw) of cursive letters.


Background: Delayed postnatal removal of lung liquid may result in respiratory distress, which is more common in infants born by cesarean section. Vertical artefacts (B-lines) arising from the lung surface in lung ultrasound have been shown to correlate with the liquid content of the lungs. Objectives: We studied whether lung ultrasound could be used for the assessment of postnatal lung liquid in healthy term infants born vaginally and by cesarean section. Methods: Lung ultrasound was performed 1, 3 and 24 h after birth to 22 vaginally born infants and 20 infants born by elective cesarean section. The abundance of B-lines was scored for each infant and time point by two independent observers blinded to the mode of delivery and time point on the examination on a five-step scale. Results: In both groups, a significant decrease in abundance of B-lines, indicative of lung liquid absorption, was observed during the first 24 h. 3 h after birth cesarean section was associated with significantly higher lung liquid content than vaginal delivery. Conclusion: The noninvasive bedside ultrasound method for estimation of lung liquid is a promising tool for the early identification of infants at risk for pulmonary maladaptation.


Presents a new graph model and an associated set of operations for representing programmable logic arrays (PLAs). Through this graph model, most realistic PLA faults, including crosspoint, stuck-at, break and bridging faults, can be modeled. The work of diagnosis and test generation is thus simplified. Also, many logic design problems, such as folding, minimization and decomposition, can be done using this representation.<<ETX>>


Gobiids are widespread invasive species, with many species from this group usually invade into the same ecosystem simultaneously. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the coexi-stence of different gobiid species in the sympatric habitats is a key issue in fish invasion ecology. Incorporating morphological analyses, spatial distribution survey, and trophic analyses, we examined the coexistence strategy of Mugilogobius myxodermus and related species (the earlier invaders) in Dianchi Lake, Yunnan, China. Our results showed significant differences in morphology and spatial distribution among the four invasive gobies species (i.e., M. myxodermus, Micropercops swinhonis, Rhinogobius giurinus and Rhinogobius cliffordpopei). The spatial niche index of M. myxodermus was the highest. Food composition between M. myxodermus and other gobies was significantly different, with the former mainly feeding on Chydorus ovalis and Cypris sp. The trophic diversity index of M. myxodermus was the highest. Overall, we found that morphological differences, spatial niche diffe-rentiation, and trophic niche differentiation contributed to the coexistence of the gobies in Dianchi Lake, which could help M. myxodermus reduce interspecific competition. Importantly, the feeding strategy is the key factor determining population size and habitas of M. myxodermus during their competition with the other gobies, and finally contributing to the dominant position in the study area.


To clarify current changes in the patterns of carotid atherosclerosis in Japan, carotid ultrasonographic findings in Japanese male patients with aortic aneurysm were compared between two groups examined in different periods. The first group was recruited from 42 consecutively examined patients in 1997, while the second group consisted of 40 consecutive patients from September, 2001 to January, 2002. Carotid lesions were analyzed by computer, and classified into three types based on the texture: echolucent, hyperechoic, and heterogeneous types. The mean age of the first group was 72 years, similar to that of the second group. In the first group, cigarette smoking was frequently noted, while the mean BMI was greater and IHD and CVD were frequent in the second group. Fifty carotid lesions were seen in each group. Severe stenosis and hypoechoic type lesions were more frequent in the second group than in the first group. These findings indicated that hypoechoic-type lesions, which are considered to be lipid deposition, hemorrhage, or loose fibrous tissue, and severe stenosis, were increased in the more recent group. This predicted that circulatory disturbance due to unstable atherosclerotic lesions may increase in the future among the elderly because carotid lesions reflect vascular change in other organs.


The 88F actin (act88F) gene of Drosophila, melanogaster encodes an actin isoform that is expressed exclusively in the indirect flight muscle. In order to isolate a large number of act88F mutants, an efficient screening method was used to obtain dominant flightless mutants. Genetic analyses revealed that 25 mutations were located near or at the act88F locus. From each mutant strain, the DNA fragments including the coding region of the act88F gene were asymmetrically amplified by the polymerase chain reaction method, and the amplified fragments were directly sequenced. Eighteen of them were found to have point mutations within their coding regions. Of these, 13 were novel alleles of this gene. We have characterised these mutations in detail. First, their flight abilities were tested after introducing two normal alleles of this gene. Second, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis was used to examine actin isoforms and whole thorax proteins. Third, morphological anomalies of indirect flight muscle fibres and myofibrils were examined with an optical microscope. On the basis of these phenotypes and the known atomic structure of actin, possible alterations in the structure of actin brought about by these mutations are discussed.


Luteolin is a dietary flavonoid with medicinal properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, antiallergic, and anti-inflammatory. However, the effect of luteolin on liver X receptors (LXRs), oxysterol sensors that regulate cholesterol homeostasis, lipogenesis, and inflammation, has yet to be studied. To unveil the potential of luteolin as an LXRα/β modulator, we investigated by real-time RT-PCR the expression of LXR-target genes, namely, sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) in hepatocytes and ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABC)A1 in macrophages. The lipid content of hepatocytes was evaluated by Oil Red staining. The results demonstrated, for the first time, that luteolin abrogated the LXRα/β agonist-induced LXRα/β transcriptional activity and, consequently, inhibited SREBP-1c expression, lipid accumulation, and ABCA1 expression. Therefore, luteolin could abrogate hypertriglyceridemia associated with LXR activation, thus presenting putative therapeutic effects in diseases associated with deregulated lipid metabolism, such as hepatic steatosis, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.


Quantum-chemical calculations of the parameters of the synthesized molecules have been carried out. There is observed a good correlation of the values of the molecules' dipole moment and the charge on nitrogen atoms of the investigated compounds with the lubricating properties. Products, containing molecules of long-chain fatty acid diesters obtained from technical camelina oil and triethanolamine, have good lubricating properties.


Background: Otic barotrauma (OBT) is defined as traumatic inflammation in human middle ear that occurs at the time of avian drop. However, it can be avoided using its adequate knowledge. The objective of present study was to evaluate the knowledge of the trauma among air travelers in Sialkot city of Punjab, Pakistan. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study enlisted male adult International air travelers (n=50) from Sialkot city, Pakistan between November 2018 and April 2019 using purposive sampling technique. A specially developed questionnaire (Cronbach's alpha = .82) having 12 close -ended items on barotrauma (total possible score 12) was administered to the participants at their home. Level of knowledge was categorized as inadequate (score 0-6), moderate (7-9) and adequate (10-12). Pearson's chi-squared test was used to see the association between adequate knowledge on the OBT and sociodemographic variables using a P-value < .05 as statistically significant. Results: Mean age of the participants was 47.60±9.9 years. Most of them (n=36; 72%) travelled for work reason. Almost all i.e. 46 (92%) gave correct response against item 1 (information provider about air trauma) and 12 (treatment of otic barotrauma) of the administered questionnaire. The rate of adequate knowledge on OBT was found to be higher among those having more than two-time travelling experience (82.9%, P = .02). However, there was no significant difference in knowledge of the barotrauma between people having less than or more than 12 years of science education (P = .59). All the business tourists (n = 5) had adequate knowledge of barotrauma followed by jobbers (n=25) and pilgrims (n=3), respectively. Conclusions: Business tourists have adequate knowledge on otic barotrauma associated with air travel than jobbers or Hajj/Umrah pilgrims.


Project-Based Learning (PBL) has for long been an effective approach in education. It is widely incorporated in various educational contexts. While great emphasis has been put on its positive influences on students' learning, teachers and students' perspectives of the approach, and challenges in the process of implementing the approach in various contexts, interest in how students think of the teacher's contribution remains fairly limited. The current study, therefore, is an effort to fill the gap by placing its focus on students' perception on the teacher's orientation, mentoring and ongoing support in Project-Based Learning in a Vietnamese context. Participants in the study are 174 freshmen coming from 4 seperated classes in the same course named Presentation skills in two different school years in Faculty of English Linguistics and Literature, University of Social Sciences and Humanities- Vietnam National University, HCMC, Vietnam. Data is systematically collected from a web-based questionnaire and students' end-of-course reports in 2018 and early 2019. The results of the study reveal that the majority of the students highly appreciate and benefit from the teacher's orientation, mentoring and ongoing support in PBL. Suggestions from the participants in the study are also noted as good references for the teacher's upcoming teaching stratergies. The study contributes to the current understanding of PBL in education and provides solid support for further exploitation of other aspects of the approach in Asian contexts.


Because of redundant freedoms, designing a robust any path following controller for snake-like robots is very challenging. In this paper, a novel path following controller, combining the robust following controller used in the unicycle robot and the fiber bundle model of snake-like robots, is proposed to follow any planar curve. More specifically, firstly, the kinematic model is established based on the fiber bundle theory which connects snake-like robots and unicycle robots. Then the robust path following controller for the unicycle robots is modified to be applied to the sake-like robots. Finally, to obtain a feasible controller, an estimation method for the orientation angle of the robot in the fiber bundle is proposed. To validate the proposed method, numerical simulations and experiments are performed. The results demonstrate that the proposed following controller is robust and valid.


This paper uses the concept of queer time to examine the functions of the alternative temporalities created in Proust's Recherche and Richardson's Pilgrimage. It argues that despite obvious similarities between the two works in the relevance they attribute to those privileged moments in which linear time can be transcended, there are also marked differences which are at least partly related to the question of gender. Despite its being triggered by experiences of ex-temporality, the writing project of Proust's narrator is clearly embedded in conceptions of generational time, and his calculated management of the homosexual closet requires an absolute control over his material and a heterosexual framing. Thus in the Recherche queer time only surfaces in isolated moments and does not unfold a sustained impact on the novel, whereas in Pilgrimage the female protagonist's moments of being produce a life-sustaining queer energy that permeates the whole text and helps her to withstand the pressure of heteronormati...


Chemical investigations of marine sponges from the genus Hyrtios has yielded a predominance of scalarane-type sesterterpenes.' We have previously isolated heteronemin and the new 12-epi-heteronemin as representatives of this class of sesterterpenes, from the marine sponge Hyrtìos erecta collected in New Caledonia? However, both scalarane-type sesterterpenes and those of the manoalide family have been clearly shown to Co-occur in a sample of Hyrtios erecta, collected at Amani Island, Japan? In our continuing chemical investigation of sponges from New Caledonia, we studied Hyrtios sp. which contained only sesterterpenes of the manoalide family as major constituents. In this paper we report on the isolation and structure elucidation of thorectolide monoacetate 1 and thorectolide 2. By HMQC and HMBC experiments we corrected the 13C NMR assignment of C-5 and we assigned the resonances of ' carbons C-8, C-12 and C-16 of thorectolide monoacetate, previously isolated from the sponge Thorectandra ex cava tu^.^ We also investigated the stereochemistry at C-4 and C-24. Both Hyrtìos sesterterpenes provide a further example of secondary metabolite variation within the Hyrtios genus. Fractionation of the CHzCll extract of Hyrtios sp., which exhibited in a preliminary pharmacological screening significant antimicrobial activity against S. aurem and cytotoxic activity against Kl3 cells, was monitored by an antimicrobial bioassay using S. aureus. The CHC13-MeOH 955 fraction, which retained maximum activity, was successively subjected to Sephadex LH-20 (CHC1,-MeOH, 2 8 v/v) and silica gel (hexane-EtOAc, 7:3 vlv) column chromatography to afford thorectolide monoacetate 1 and thorectolide 2. The known heteronemin and 12-epiheteronemin was not detected in the CH2C12 extract of this sponge. Compound 1 was obtained as an optically active pale yellow glass, [alD = +33.8" (c 0.49, CHC1,). The formula


Electromechanical Wave Imaging (EWI) is a non-invasive, ultrasound-based imaging method capable of mapping the electromechanical wave (EW) in vivo, i.e. the transient deformations occurring in response to the electrical activation of the heart. Optimal imaging frame rates, in terms of the elastographic signal-to-noise ratio, to capture the EW cannot be achieved due to the limitations of conventional imaging sequences, in which the frame rate is low and tied to the imaging parameters. To achieve higher frame rates, EWI is typically performed by combining sectors acquired during separate heartbeats, which are then combined into a single view. However, the frame rates achieved remain potentially sub-optimal and this approach precludes the study of non-periodic arrhythmias. This paper describes a temporally unequispaced acquisition sequence (TUAS) for which a wide range of frame rates are achievable independently of the imaging parameters, while maintaining a full view of the heart at high beam density. TUAS is first used to determine the optimal frame rate for EWI in a paced canine heart in vivo and then to image during ventricular fibrillation. These results indicate how EWI can be optimally performed within a single heartbeat, during free breathing and in real time, for both periodic and non-periodic cardiac events.


Abstract This paper will investigate the production of knowledge regarding the number of illegalized migrants. Estimation of the number has been the common frame for production of this kind of knowledge, performed by social scientists, government officials, NGOs and others, but now biometric technology offers new perspectives on data, concepts and production of political numbers. Based on an analysis of various approaches to estimation of the number of irregular migration and an outline of biometric visions in the European Union on data production, the paper concludes that the changes caused by biometric technology will produce increased objectivity and depolitization in numbers of irregular migrants which could not be obtained in the field of estimation. The level of truth reflects the level of control and surveillance fixed as a strategy of government of mobility in the biometric technology.


Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a class of targeted therapeutics consisting of a monoclonal antibody coupled to a cytotoxic payload. Various bioconjugation methods for producing site-specific ADCs have been reported, in efforts to improve immunoreactivity and pharmacokinetics, and minimize batch variance-potential issues associated with first-generation ADCs prepared via stochastic peptide coupling of lysines or reduced cysteines. Cell-free protein synthesis of antibodies incorporating para-azidomethyl phenylalanine (pAMF) at specific locations within the protein sequence has emerged as a means to generate antibody-drug conjugates with strictly defined drug-antibody-ratio (DAR), markedly improved stability, activity and specificity. The incorporation of pAMF enables the conjugation of payloads with strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition (SPAAC). Here, we introduce two dibenzylcyclooctyne (DBCO)-functionalized bifunctional chelators that enable the incorporation of radioisotopes for positron emission tomography (PET) with 89Zr (t1/2 = 78.4 h, β+ = 395 keV (22%), γ = 897 keV) or single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with 111In (t1/2 = 67.3 h, γ = 171 keV (91%), 245 keV (94%)) under physiologically compatible conditions. We show that the corresponding radiolabeled conjugates with site-specifically functionalized antibodies targeting HER2 are amenable to targeted molecular imaging of HER2+ expressing tumor xenografts in mice and exhibit a favorable biodistribution profile in comparison with conventional, glycosylated antibody conjugates generated by stochastic bioconjugation.


Cloud Computing (CC) depends on sharing of resources to achieve coherence and economies of scale similar to a public utility. An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is a network based security technology built for detecting vulnerability exploits against a target application or computer. Computational Intelligence (CI) refers to a set of nature-inspired computational methodologies and approaches to address complex real world problems; solutions to these problems may not be possible through mathematical reasoning. The objective of the paper is to account for cloud intrusions, various classifications of IDS along with CI in cloud. The paper discusses the inter-link between the intrusion detection methods and computational intelligence in a cloud environment. The survey reveals a detailed classification of IDS through various parametric techniques and the purpose of the classification is to provide IDS in a nutshell by using CI methodology.


The Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway is involved in cell immunity, division and death, as well as in tumor formation. The expression of key genes in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway in different types of cancer serves different roles. However, few reports are available on the prognostic value of the genes of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM). The potential prognostic value of gene expression in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway in patients with SKCM was analyzed in the present study using data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. To predict the potential functions and mechanisms of these genes in SKCM, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and bioinformatics analysis were performed. A nomogram model including gene expression level and high risk factors was used to predict the risk level of prognostic. High expression levels of STAT1, STAT3, STAT4 and STAT5B, and low expression levels of STAT6 were associated with favorable prognosis [adjusted P<0.001; hazard ratio (HR), 0.595; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.455–0.778; adjusted P=0.018; HR, 0.725; 95% CI, 0.555–0.947; adjusted P<0.001; HR, 0.590; 95% CI, 0.450–0.773; adjusted P=0.007; HR, 0.690; 95% CI, 0.526–0.940; and adjusted P=0.026; HR, 0.737, 95% CI, 0.563–0.964, respectively]. GSEA results demonstrated that these genes were involved in cell differentiation, invasion, adhesion, migration, cycle, colony formation and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. The combination of genes with favorable prognosis had a better effect on the overall survival (univariate survival analysis, P<0.05). The results of the present study suggest that STAT1, STAT3, STAT4, STAT5B and STAT6 gene expression may be used as a potential prognostic biomarker of SKCM, and the combined outcomes may exhibit a stronger interaction and higher survival time for SKCM.


Numerous studies over the past decade have investigated to making human animation as realistic as possible, especially facial animation. Let's consider facial animation for human speech. Animating a face, to match up to a speech, requires a lot of effort. Most of the process has now been automated to make it easier for the artist to create facial animation along with lip sync based on a speech provided by the user. While these systems concentrate on the mouth and tongue, where articulation of speech takes place, very little effort has gone to understand and to recreate the exact motion of the neck during speech. The neck plays an important role in voice production and hence it is essential to study the motion created by it.  The purpose of this research is to study the motion of the neck during speech. This research makes two contributions. First, predicting the motion of the neck around the strap muscles for a given speech. This is achieved by training a program with position data of marker placed on the neck along with its speech analysis data. Second, understanding the basic neck motion during speech. This will help an artist understand how the neck should be animated during speech.


In a small and medium-sized dental facility, the correct management of the sterilisation and presterilisation phases plays a fundamental role in good management of instruments and personnel, in order to ensure conditions that are more efficient with less down time. Nowadays, instrument sterilizers are increasingly efficient in achieving results, both in terms of time and size, and ensure that materials are sterile and ready to be stocked in a reasonable time. A literature search for articles related to revision work was performed using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The following keywords have been entered in the previously mentioned databases: sterilisation instruments; dental autoclave; precleaning; instruments disinfectants. The records obtained were screened by three reviewers, and only relevant articles were read full text. In addition, the timings of dental and sterilisation procedures were measured, and from these, suggestions are made in order to improve the efficiency of instrumentation management (facility used as study subject: University Dental Clinic, University of Foggia) as a function of the health-care interventions. We arrived at the conclusion that without doubt, sterilisation of instruments and products plays a fundamental role, but the efficiency of the sterilisation and presterilisation procedures cannot be separated from managing the personnel in charge by giving them specific and precise tasks.


Birnessite can be used as a precursor in the preparation of manganese oxides. Synthesis of pure birnessite is difficult because of a side reaction, which yields hausmannite. This study aimed to develop a modified oxidation-deprotonation reaction (ODPR) method to eliminate the formation of hausmannite, and to investigate the influence of alkalinity on the synthetic products. In contrast to the conventional synthesis of birnessite through oxygen or permanganate oxidation, the ODPR method can produce birnessite without any impurities, within 5 h, and in a reproducible fashion. The distinctive feature of the ODPR method is the bubbling of N2 gas into NaOH and Mn2+ solutions before mixing the NaOH with Mn2+, in order to keep oxygen away from each solution. As soon as white pyrochroite was formed, oxygen gas was forced in as an oxidant to initiate the oxidation reaction. A black suspension with a blue tint appeared after 5 h of reaction. These precipitates were collected and examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared (IR) and Raman spectroscopy. The average oxidation state of the Mn oxides was also determined. The results showed that pure birnessite with good crystallinity was formed. Oxidation of 1 M NaOH mixed with Mn2+ solution formed random-stacked birnessite. However, the oxidation of 4 M NaOH mixed with Mn2+ formed birnessite. Random-stacked birnessite can be transformed into birnessite by ageing suspensions at 313 to 373 K.


Plasma free fatty acid (FFA) turnover and oxidation were determined by the primed continuous infusion of albumin bound (1-14C) palmitic acid in 2 patients after an overnight fast and during fat-free total parenteral nutrition (TPN), in 1 during fat-free TPN, and in another in whom one-third of calories were administered by the continuous infusion of Intralipid via a central venous catheter in conjunction with a standard glucose-amino acid solution. During TPN, plasma FFA concentrations in 2 patients were reduced from 0.7 to 0.11 and 0.08 mM, respectively, and their plasma FFA turnover during TPN was only 26% (3.86 and 2.68 mu mol/min/kg) of that prior TPN. In these subjects prior to TPN, 33 and 47% of the plasma FFA turnover was immediately oxidized, accounting for 58% of the CO2 output; however, during TPN only 16% of the plasma FFA turnover was oxidized, accounting for 10% of the caloric expenditure. The plasma FFA kinetics in the third patient were similar to those described for the first two. In contrast, the plasma FFA concentration of the fourth patient during Intralipid TPN was 0.4 mM. His plasma FFA production was 11.3 mu mol/min/kg, of which 18.4% was immediately oxidized, contributing 28% to the total CO2 output. These studies indicated that during fat-free TPN plasma FFA turnover is reduced and plasma FFA oxidation is a minor contributor to energy homeostasis; however, when one-third of the calories are supplied by fat emulsion, plasma FFA turnover is appreciable and the oxidation of plasma FFA is an important source of energy.


SUMMARY There are various forms within the species which exhibit a differential seasonal behaviour. These have been designated as 'monsoon', 'winter', 'winter-summer' and 'summer' forms. The life cycle of the 'monsoon form' starts under a high temperature regime and finishes under low temperature. The 'winter', 'winter-summer', and the 'summer' forms grow in constant low temperature, an initial low temperature terminating in a high temperature and in constantly high temperature regimes respectively. The critical photoperiod for these forms ranges from 13 hours' duration to continuous light. The species does not grow at all in shaded localities. Many of the differentiating characters, however, become slightly less distinct when the different forms are raised together under a similar set of conditions in one or the other season, and this suggests that they originated from a common stock and evolved in response to environmental differences (as has been suggested for the various American species of Xanthiumn). The origin of the species with regard to its varying critical photoperiod has been discussed.


A new Analysis/Synthesis method, named SINOLA, based on ``sinusoidal additive''
and ``OLA/PSOLA'' synthesis, is proposed. It allows high quality transformation of both
stationnary and non-stationnary parts of a signal. Time-frequency characterization and synthesis
parameters estimation is done by a novel method based on spectrum peak shape distortions and
time-frequency phase evolutions.


Context: Nurses worked as primary educators in perioperative teaching. The delivery of preoperative teaching may be affected by the nurses' perception of what information should be involved. Their perceptions possibly have a direct effect on their performance regarding the preoperative information. Understanding the nurses' point of view may help the nurses to increase their knowledge of the preoperative information details, to provide better nursing care, and to improve patient outcomes.
Aim: To identify the relevant evidence on the nurses' perceptions regarding the essential elements of preoperative information in addition to the methods of information delivery and the factors that reduce or prevent information delivery.
Methods: A scoping review method was used to allow for the mapping of the relevant evidence and the synthesis of the findings. CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PubMed databases were searched from inception until December 2019. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria with a sample size of 812 nurses involved in the review.
Results: The results indicated that Anaesthesia information (69.55%) and details about operation (62.1%) were most crucial preoperative information as perceived by nurses. Oral explanations were most essential actual and preferred method of information delivery. The top barriers to provide sufficient information were time availability (64.25%), the types of questions (64.17%), and language barriers (61.75%). The review also found that the Preoperative Teaching Questionnaire (PTQ) was the most assessment instrument used to assess nurses' perception regarding the preoperative information.
Conclusion: This scoping review has assessed the nurses' perceptions regarding the essential elements of preoperative information. Understand nurses' view regarding the preoperative information are important to determine the essential elements of preoperative teaching, ensure the quality of care, and better patient's outcome. However, further studies are needed to assess the nurses' perception regarding essential preoperative information and to examine the different strategies and teaching modalities used to create an effective preoperative teaching program.


Technological evolution allowed to record high fidelity traces that--when analysed by complex mathematical systems--may provide extremely detailed and new information about all the factors involved in the determinism of pulse wave. Suprasystolic waves, i.e. those recorded immediately before systolic pressure, may be regarded as similar to aortic pressure waves evaluated during cardiac catheterization. Suprasystolic dP/dt max was calculated from the profile of pulse wave recorded by the DynaPulse, an automatic portable non-invasive oscillometric method to simultaneously measure BP and analyse arterial waveforms, in 10 normal healthy subjects (age 37 +/- 5) and 5 subjects with ischaemic dilatative cardiomyopathy (age 41 +/- 7) whose ejection fraction--invasively assessed--was < 40%. The 24 h dP/dt max curves were analysed by parametric and non parametric tests. We found a significant difference (p < 0.001) in the average 24-h dP/dt max between healthy subjects (471 +/- 36.7 mmHg/sec) and patients with impaired cardiac function (271 +/- 54.2 mmHg/sec). The average daytime and nighttime dP/dt max values showed significantly higher values in normal subject in comparison to patients with heart failure (daytime 7.23 h: 529 +/- 74 mmHg/s versus 227 +/- 64 mmHg/s, p < 0.001; nighttime: 572 +/- 82 mmHg/s versus 202 +/- 67 mmHg/s, p < 0.001). We also found a difference in the occurrence of acrophases, at similar blood pressure value, i.e. the highest dP/dt values occurred during the night in normal subject, the opposite in ischaemic patients. Furthermore, the dP/dt max correlates only with systolic blood pressure.


Demagnetization is one of the noticeable problems in almost every permanent magnet linear generator (PMLG) for oceanic wave energy conversion. To avoid the degradation of electrical power generation capability, a PMLG with a new feature of variable air gap length is proposed in this paper. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, a PMLG has been designed which is simulated for both the fixed and variable air gaps. The finite element analysis is performed for simulation for analysis of the PMLG with the conventional and the proposed methods by using the software package ANSYS/Ansoft. The voltage, current, power, magnetic flux density, and force components of the PMLG are analyzed and discussed. The simulation results show that the new method can effectively avoid the demagnetization problem.


&NA; The purpose of this article is to present a series of suggestions for increasing cardiopulmonary content in clinical education experiences. This article offers strategies for maximizing cardiopulmonary clinical education experiences of physical therapy students in order to better prepare them to function in the changing clinical environment. Specific strategies addressed include: 1) enhancing student selfdirectedness; 2) integrating cardiopulmonary content into management of patients with a variety of diagnoses; and 3) use of resources for student and staff development. A series of guiding questions to facilitate student learning in the area of cardiopulmonary physical therapy is provided. Alternative models for full time and short term clinical education experiences are discussed. Development of clinical instructors with knowledge and skill in cardiopulmonary PT and the ability to facilitate positive cardiopulmonary clinical education experiences for students is imperative in order to prepare effective clinicians who are advocates for the cardiopulmonary needs of patients.


Limited information is available related to the effect of moisture and temperature on release of metals from sludge treated soils. In an incubation experiment, effect of ten levels of sludge (0, 1.12, 2.24, 4.48, 8.96, 17.9, 35.8, 71.6, 142, 285 g kg(-1)), two levels of moisture (field capacity and 2.5 cm standing water) and two levels of temperature (20 and 35 degrees C) on the release of zinc and cadmium was evaluated in acid and alkaline soils. The results indicated that application of sludge was more effective in enhancing EDTA extractable Zn and Cd in acid soil than in alkaline soil. On an average, maximum increase in release of EDTA extractable Zn and Cd were 32.0 and 5.2 fold in sludge treated soil over control. There was decrease in EDTA extractable Zn and Cd by 37.7% and 25.4%, respectively under submergence as compared to that under field capacity. On an average, the amount of EDTA extractable Zn and Cd increased by 22.6% and 43.6%, respectively at 35 degrees C than that at 20 degrees C.


An unusual case of inverted central incisor in a nine year old girl is reported here. The case was diagnosed as an infected dentigerous cyst. The unerupted central incisor was placed inverted almost near the ethmoid bone. The cyst was enucleated successfully.