To the Editor.— Various physical methods have been shown to successfully treat psoriatic plaques. These range from local hyperthermia and cryotherapy to such traumatic techniques as electrodessication, pressing and stretching the lesions, skin abrasion, surgical removal, argon laser therapy, and carbon dioxide laser therapy.1,2 We studied the effect of a flash lamp—pumped pulsed dye laser on chronic psoriatic plaques because of their tremendous vascular component. Further, we discuss the potential mechanisms for its effects and its role in psoriatic therapy. Subjects and Methods.— Twenty patients with chronic, stable psoriatic plaques were selected for this study. There were four women and 16 men, ranging from 25 to 60 years of age. Most of the plaques (80%) used for the study were located on the posterior aspect of the trunk on the lower sacral area. Other sites included the abdomen and the extremities. Plaques were at least 4×4 cm in size.


This article seeks to clarify how we understand domestic and international sources of globalization and specifically how we explain financial liberalization across countries. The article also develops our understanding of the underlying legitimacy of financial liberalization. We debate e.g. Abiad and Mody (2005) and others who have found political factors to have little impact on financial openness. Using the same data undergirding such conclusions we argue, in contrast, that even a slight broadening of the political variables employed in the model and much closer attention to "input" and "output" aspects of the political legitimacy of financial liberalization over time reveal a more central role for politics in shaping liberalization. Input legitimacy involves the representation of stakeholders in initial and ongoing decisions to liberalize, while "output" legitimacy concerns liberalization"s distributional consequences and management thereof over time. Several empirical measures of domestic-national and international political factors plausibly influence such aspects of legitimacy and are found to play a significant role in shaping liberalization, suggesting legitimation politics to be more important to financial openness than existing studies have typically acknowledged.


ABSTRACT: Twenty-two reported cases of neuroblastoma missed by the mass screening programs were reviewed (six cases in Sapporo City where a quantitative measurement for both vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) and homovanillic acid (HVA) is used and 16 cases in the districts of qualitative judgment only for VMA), and some potential factors for missing a patient were discussed. Most of the 22 patients were diagnosed over 12 mo and had advanced clinical stages at diagnosis (III or IV). Of the 17 cases whose outcome in prognosis was available, nine cases were dead and only three cases were alive without any trace of tumor. Fluctuation in the amounts of urinary VMA and HVA seemed to be one of the causes for missing a patient, especially with a small tumor. The comparison about tumor wt, VMA and HVA amounts, and clinical stage between the 22 true positive cases in Sapporo City and 46 ones in the districts of qualitative methods, and the difference in detection rate between the two groups suggested that the qualitative methods missed more patients with a small tumor. The patients who had abnormally high amounts of HVA with low amounts of VMA accounted for a fairly large part of the missed cases in Sapporo City as well as in the districts of qualitative methods. To the contrary, no patient of this type was found even among the 22 true positive cases in Sapporo City.


Transparent heat mirror coatings based on thin zirconium nitride films have been prepared using reactive magnetron sputtering. The zirconium nitride films have been sandwiched between layers of zirconium oxide. It is shown that the multilayer configuration ZrO2/ZrN/ZrO2 can be used as solar control coatings on window glazings. A visible transmittance of around 60% and a thermal emittance lower than 0.2 can be obtained, and the ratio between visible transmittance and total solar transmittance can be as high as 1.7. The influence of substrate temperature on the optical quality of the films is evaluated and it is shown that the crystal structure of the first oxide layer is of importance for the optical quality of the nitride. The influence of preparation conditions and accelerated ageing has been modelled using the optical constants of thin films prepared under identical conditions as the films in the multilayer coatings.


Context
Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids) are the most common benign tumors in women. Recently, three populations of leiomyoma cells were discovered on the basis of CD34 and CD49b expression, but molecular differences between these populations remain unknown.

Objective
To define differential gene expression and signaling pathways in leiomyoma cell populations.

Design
Cells from human leiomyoma tissue were sorted by flow cytometry into three populations: CD34+/CD49b+, CD34+/CD49b-, and CD34-/CD49b-. Microarray gene expression profiling and pathway analysis were performed. To investigate the insulinlike growth factor (IGF) pathway, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunoblotting, and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation studies were performed in cells isolated from fresh leiomyoma.

Setting
Research laboratory.

Patients
Eight African American women.

Interventions
None.

Main Outcomes Measures
Gene expression patterns, cell proliferation, and differentiation.

Results
A total of 1164 genes were differentially expressed in the three leiomyoma cell populations, suggesting a hierarchical differentiation order whereby CD34+/CD49b+ stem cells differentiate to CD34+/CD49b- intermediary cells, which then terminally differentiate to CD34-/CD49b- cells. Pathway analysis revealed differential expression of several IGF signaling pathway genes. IGF2 was overexpressed in CD34+/CD49b- vs CD34-/CD49b- cells (83-fold; P < 0.05). Insulin receptor A (IR-A) expression was higher and IGF1 receptor lower in CD34+/CD49b+ vs CD34-/CD49b- cells (15-fold and 0.35-fold, respectively; P < 0.05). IGF2 significantly increased cell number (1.4-fold; P < 0.001), proliferation indices, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation. ERK inhibition decreased IGF2-stimulated cell proliferation.

Conclusions
IGF2 and IR-A are important for leiomyoma stem cell proliferation and may represent paracrine signaling between leiomyoma cell types. Therapies targeting the IGF pathway should be investigated for both treatment and prevention of leiomyomas.


Based on Transition Path Theory (TPT) for Markov jump processes [1, 2], we develop a general approach for identifying and calculating Transition States (TS) of stochastic chemical reacting networks. We first extend the concept of probability current, originally defined on edges connecting different nodes in the configuration space [2], to each sub-network. To locate sub-networks with maximal probability current on the separatrix between reactive and non-reactive events, which will give the Transition States of the reaction, constraint optimization is conducted. We further introduce an alternative scheme to compute the transition pathways by topological sorting, which is shown to be highly efficient through analysis. AMS subject classifications: 00A69, 92B05, 37L55, 60J35, 60J75


For the efficient management of geo-infrastructures in the field, engineering properties of the subgrade should be reliably and rapidly investigated. The objective of this study is to estimate and compare the strength and stiffness parameters of subgrades using portable in-situ devices. An automated dynamic cone penetrometer (ACP), dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP), and light falling weight deflectometer (LFWD) are adopted and applied at nine points of soft ground in South Korea. The Nvalue from the ACP (NACP), which efficiently assesses the relatively deep subgrade, is correlated with the dynamic cone penetration index (DCPI) and dynamic deflection modulus (Evd). Test results show that the DCPI and Evd can be estimated in terms of NACP. In particular, the relationship between Evd and NACP is improved when the strain influence factor of the target ground is considered. For the assessment of strength and stiffness parameters, the California bearing ratio (CBR), relative density (Dr), internal friction angle (φ), and elastic moduli determined by the plate loading test (PLT), soil stiffness gauge (SSG), falling weight deflectometer (FWD) are estimated using NACP. The ACP test with the relationships between engineering parameters and NACP may be an effectively method to assess the overall characteristics of the subgrade.


This paper presents an experiment, which builds a bridge over the gap between neuroscience and the analysis of economic behaviour. We apply the mathematical theory of Pavlovian conditioning, known as Recurrent Associative Gated Dipole (READ), to analyse consumer choices in a computer-based experiment. Supplier reputations, consumer satisfaction, and customer reactions are operationally defined and, together with prices, related to READ's neural dynamics. We recorded our participants' decisions with their timing, and then mapped those decisions on a sequence of events generated by the READ model. To achieve this, all constants in the differential equations were determined using simulated annealing with data from 129 people. READ predicted correctly 96% of all consumer choices in a calibration sample (n = 1290), and 87% in a test sample (n = 903), thus outperforming logit models. The rank correlations between self-assessed and dipole-generated consumer satisfactions were 89% in the calibration sample and 78% in the test sample, surpassing by a wide margin the best linear regression model.


Game programming can help students gain practical experience with software engineering. Game programming covers a wide range of software engineering topics – including algorithms, data structures, team work, and software tools. Unfortunately, game programming usually involves many repetitive and time consuming tasks such as accessing hardware resources and managing game content. In this paper we present our experiences utilizing game programming for project courses. We discuss two conceptually different game project courses along with the results. The XNA framework relieves programmers from many of the tedious tasks mentioned, allowing them to develop a feature complete game and to gain experience with the process of software development. Students were so fascinated by the subject that they spent more time on the courses than required.


ABSTRACT This paper proposes a new approach to conceptualizing digital and media art forms. This theoretical approach will be explored through issues raised in the process of creating a formal declarative model (alternately known as a metadata framework, notation system or ontology) for digital and media art. The approach presented and explored here is intended to inform a better understanding of media art forms and to provide a practical descriptive framework that supports their creation, re-creation, documentation and preservation.


OBJECTIVE
Using delayed degradation bone matrix gelatin (BMG) to repair the defect of laryngeal frame for the goal of laryngeal external form and function recovery.

METHOD
Partial laryngectomy and total laryngectomy were performed in nine cases with laryngeal cancer, then delayed degradation BMG be implanted in the defect of laryngeal frame or inside sterno hyoid muscle to build the laryngeal external form. In the same time the delayed degradation BMG be implanted in the crico-arytenoid muscle and around fibre with nerve ending, then embedding and sewing up to recover the swallow function and to prevent deglutition disorder.

RESULT
The delayed degradation BMG were applied in nine cases to rebuild new larynx, five of them were performed vertical partial laryngectomy and two total laryngectomy. The effect is satisfied after 15 years followed up. Eight of them rebuild the laryngeal external form and function, one patient need put on tube for long-term and cramming to speaking.

CONCLUSION
Applying delayed degradation BMG to repair the laryngeal defect not only rebuild the laryngeal external form, but also recover the laryngeal function. It is an ideal bioactivity material and best choice for the new larynx rebuilding in the operation now.


The article outlines the basic notions connected with cognitive metaphor which has lately undergone a thorough examination. The contribution made by linguists resulted in the rise of cognitive linguistics. This science regards metaphor not as a linguistic phenomenon but as a mental one that establishes connection between language and mind in the form of understanding new notions in terms of notions and categories known due to the previously gained experience. The interaction of new and previous experience can generate three main types of metaphors: structural metaphors which imply the structuring of target domain in terms of source domain, ontological metaphors which view abstract notions as concrete objects with clear outlines and orientational metaphors whichnotions as concrete objects with clear outlines and orientational metaphors which represent the ways to fix the experience of spatial orientation. The classification of metaphors complemented with examples is presented below along with some controversial cases of determining the type of metaphor.


In May, 23,000 people voluntarily took part in thousands of social science experiments without ever visiting a lab. All they did was log on to Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk), an online crowdsourcing service run by the Seattle, Washington–based company better known for its massive internet-based retail business. Those research subjects completed 230,000 tasks on their computers in 3.3 million minutes—more than 6 years of effort in total. The prodigious output demonstrates the popularity of an online platform that scientists had only begun to exploit 5 years ago. But the growing use of MTurk has raised concerns, as researchers discussed at the Association for Psychological Science meeting in Chicago, Illinois, last month. Some worry that they are becoming too dependent on a commercial platform. Others question whether the research volunteers are paid fairly and treated ethically. And looming over it all are questions about who these anonymous volunteers actually are, and concerns that they are less numerous and diverse than researchers hope.


We present a simple model for simulating the response of a superelastic shape memory alloy wire based on the thermodynamics of irreversible processes, which can simulate the full thermomechanical response including internal hysteresis loops, at different temperatures, with minimal data input. The key idea is to separate the dissipative response and the elastic response of shape memory alloys using a Gibbs potential based formulation, and then use a Preisach model for the dissipative part of the response. This enables better handling of the features observed in the superelastic response such as those due to changes in temperature and internal hysteresis loops. We compare the predicted response with experiments performed on 0.75 mm NiTi shape memory alloy wires at three different temperatures.


Micromagnetic tomography aims at reconstructing large numbers of individual magnetizations of magnetic particles from combining high‐resolution magnetic scanning techniques with micro X‐ray computed tomography (microCT). Previous work demonstrated that dipole moments can be robustly inferred, and mathematical analysis showed that the potential field of each particle is uniquely determined. Here, we describe a mathematical procedure to recover higher orders of the magnetic potential of the individual magnetic particles in terms of their spherical harmonic expansions (SHE). We test this approach on data from scanning superconducting quantum interference device microscopy and microCT of a reference sample. For particles with high signal‐to‐noise ratio of the magnetic scan we demonstrate that SHE up to order n = 3 can be robustly recovered. This additional level of detail restricts the possible internal magnetization structures of the particles and provides valuable rock magnetic information with respect to their stability and reliability as paleomagnetic remanence carriers. Micromagnetic tomography therefore enables a new approach for detailed rock magnetic studies on large ensembles of individual particles.


abstract The North Morecambe Gas Field in the East Irish Sea Basin was discovered by well 110/2-3 in 1976 and contains ultimately recoverable reserves of over one TCF. THe structure is fault closed on three sides and dip closed to the north. Development was by ten conventionally drilled high angle deviated wells, from a not normally manned platform. Gas is exported through a dedicated pipeline to a new terminal at Barrow. The Triassic Sherwood Sandstone Group reservoir is composed of sandstones deposited in a semi-arid, fluvial and aeolian setting. Thin aeolian sandstones dominate flow into the well bore. Platy illite reduces the permeability by two to three orders of magnitude in the lower, illite affected zone of the reservoir, RFT measurements from the first development well proved that the free water level was 25 feet higher than expected, giving a maximum gas column of 975 feet. Re-mapping after drilling has shown that 56% of the GIIP is contained in the high permeability illite-free zone.


Background. Studies from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) indicate that the use of audio computer-assisted self-interviewing (ACASI) is associated with more accurate reporting of sensitive behaviors (e.g. substance use and sexual risk behaviors) compared with interviewer-administered questionnaires. There is a lack of published information on the process of designing, developing, and implementing ACASI in LMIC. In this paper we describe our experience implementing an ACASI system for use with a population of orphans and vulnerable children in Zambia. Methods. A questionnaire of mental health, substance use, and HIV risk behaviors was converted into an ACASI system, tested in pilot and validity studies, and implemented for use in a randomized controlled trial. Successes, barriers, and challenges associated with each stage in the development and implementation of ACASI are described. Results. We were able to convert a lengthy and complex survey into an ACASI system that was feasible for use in Zambia. Lessons learned include the importance of: (1) piloting the written and electronic versions; (2) proper and extensive training for study assessors to use ACASI and for those doing voice recordings; and (3) attention to logistics such as appropriate space, internet, and power. Conclusions. We found that ACASI was feasible and acceptable in Zambia with proper planning, training, and supervision. Given mounting evidence indicating that ACASI provides more accurate self-report data and immediate data download compared with interview-administered measures, it may be an effective and economical alternative for behavioral health research studies in LMIC.


Characters with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have become increasingly popular in young adult literature. Using a case-study format, this article describes the communication, sensory, and social characteristics of eight protagonists in award-winning young adult novels. All told in the first person, these novels provide insight for young readers regarding what youth with ASD experience. General findings reveal that youth with ASD are portrayed as quirky geniuses, who are sensitive to sounds and light, and are thrown off by changes in routine or in the environment. Misunderstanding idioms is used as comic relief, as are the characters' social faux pas. The characters do not represent the full range of individuals with autism spectrum disorders, especially those who also have cognitive and language impairments. However, the novels do portray sensory sensitivity well from a first-person perspective. Overall, the novels provide positive images that may challenge ableist attitudes and promote peer acceptance.


This volume deals with the transformative force of Observant reforms during the long fifteenth century, and with the massive literary output by Observant religious, leading to encompassing models of religious perfection that had an effect far into the sixteenth century.


Toddalia asiatica (L.) Lam. is extensively used in traditional medicinal systems by various cultures. Despite its frequent use in traditional medicine, there is still a paucity of scientific information on T. asiatica growing on the tropical island of Mauritius. Therefore, the present study was designed to appraise the pharmacological and phytochemical profile of extracts (methanol, ethyl acetate and water) and essential oil obtained from aerial parts of T. asiatica. Biological investigation involved the evaluation of in vitro antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory potentials. The chemical profile of the EO was determined using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis, while for the extracts, the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid content were quantified as well as their individual phenolic compounds by LC/MS/MS. Quinic acid, fumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, quercitrin and isoquercitrin were the main compounds in the extracts. Highest total phenolic (82.5±0.94 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE/g)) and flavonoid (43.8±0.31 mg rutin equivalent (RE/g)) content were observed for the methanol extract. The GC/MS analysis has shown the presence of 26 compounds with linalool (30.9 %), linalyl acetate (20.9 %) and β‐phellandrene (7.9 %) being most abundant components in the EO. The extracts and EO showed notable antioxidant properties, with the methanol extract proved to be superior source of antioxidant compounds. Noteworthy anti‐acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and anti‐butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) effects were recorded for the tested samples, while only the methanol and ethyl acetate extracts were active against tyrosinase. With respect to antidiabetic effects, the extracts and EO were potent inhibitors of α‐glucosidase, while modest activity was recorded against α‐amylase. Docking results showed that linalyl acetate has the highest affinity to interact with the active site of BChE with docking score of −6.25 kcal/mol. The findings amassed herein act as a stimulus for further investigations of this plant as a potential source of bioactive compounds which can be exploited as phyto‐therapeutics.


To solve the problem that the response of the walking platform of bricklaying robot is slow and uncertain factors such as load change and friction of hydraulic cylinder affect the adjustment accuracy, an electro-hydraulic servo system with four hydraulic cylinders is designed. The system is an improved ADRC method. The available information of the whole system is fully considered, and the piston rod position deviations of the hydraulic cylinder is taken as the input of the whole controller to reduce the phase lag caused by the extended observer and improve the response speed of the control system. The position deviations of the piston rod in a cylinder is compensated by observation, and the high-order term and uncertain disturbance in the whole control system are defined as total disturbance, so the structure of the controller is simplified appropriately. Finally, MATLAB and AMESim are used for simulation analysis. The simulation results show that the improved ADRC method can significantly improve the response speed of the system and the suppression of uncertain disturbance. This research provides a theoretical basis for the research of masonry robot mobile platforms.


This paper describes a high precision circuit for quadrature phase shifting in which frequency controlled signal amplification is introduced so that the amplitude of the phase shifted signal is not dependent on the frequency of the input signal. The implementation of the proposed quadrature phase shifter is aimed at high accuracy reactive power measurements in AC power systems. The implementation of the new phase shifter effectively reduces var/varh measurements to watt/watthour measurements. A prototype has been built and the test results are presented.


Abstract Background To test the functional implications of impaired white matter (WM) connectivity among patients with schizophrenia and their relatives, we examined the heritability of fractional anisotropy (FA) measured on diffusion tensor imaging data acquired in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, and its association with cognitive performance in a unique sample of 175 multigenerational non-psychotic relatives of 23 multiplex schizophrenia families and 240 unrelated controls (total = 438). Methods We examined polygenic inheritance (h2r) of FA in 24 WM tracts bilaterally, and also pleiotropy to test whether heritability of FA in multiple WM tracts is secondary to genetic correlation among tracts using the Sequential Oligogenic Linkage Analysis Routines. Partial correlation tests examined the correlation of FA with performance on eight cognitive domains on the Penn Computerized Neurocognitive Battery, controlling for age, sex, site and mother's education, followed by multiple comparison corrections. Results Significant total additive genetic heritability of FA was observed in all three-categories of WM tracts (association, commissural and projection fibers), in total 33/48 tracts. There were significant genetic correlations in 40% of tracts. Diagnostic group main effects were observed only in tracts with significantly heritable FA. Correlation of FA with neurocognitive impairments was observed mainly in heritable tracts. Conclusions: Our data show significant heritability of all three-types of tracts among relatives of schizophrenia. Significant heritability of FA of multiple tracts was not entirely due to genetic correlations among the tracts. Diagnostic group main effect and correlation with neurocognitive performance were mainly restricted to tracts with heritable FA suggesting shared genetic effects on these traits.


An analysis method is presented for evaluating the z-domain scattering parameters of wave digital network (WDN). WDN represents a model of microstrip structure based on one-dimensional wave digital approach. It is formed by connecting several multiport networks together. Method is a quite general and can be employed to analyze different microstrip filter circuits. The closed-form solutions to WDN can be derived which enables to characterize in the shortest possible time the microstrip structure in the whole frequency range. Both theoretical analysis and experimental results are given, showing good agreement.


In Causal Bayesian Optimization (CBO), an agent intervenes on an unknown structural causal model to maximize a downstream reward variable. In this paper, we consider the generalization where other agents or external events also intervene on the system, which is key for enabling adaptiveness to non-stationarities such as weather changes, market forces, or adversaries. We formalize this generalization of CBO as Adversarial Causal Bayesian Optimization (ACBO) and introduce the first algorithm for ACBO with bounded regret: Causal Bayesian Optimization with Multiplicative Weights (CBO-MW). Our approach combines a classical online learning strategy with causal modeling of the rewards. To achieve this, it computes optimistic counterfactual reward estimates by propagating uncertainty through the causal graph. We derive regret bounds for CBO-MW that naturally depend on graph-related quantities. We further propose a scalable implementation for the case of combinatorial interventions and submodular rewards. Empirically, CBO-MW outperforms non-causal and non-adversarial Bayesian optimization methods on synthetic environments and environments based on real-word data. Our experiments include a realistic demonstration of how CBO-MW can be used to learn users' demand patterns in a shared mobility system and reposition vehicles in strategic areas.


A variable speed AC motor drive, fed by a 3-phase AC supply, often consists of a 3-phase bridge diode rectifier, a DC link capacitor and a pulse width modulated inverter. Recently, a new type of capacitor, known as film capacitor or slim capacitor has become popular for use in DC links. This capacitor has a lower value of capacitance and a longer life span than the conventional electrolytic capacitor. However, drives with slim DC link fed by a soft grid exhibits the tendency to oscillate at higher frequencies. This can be attributed to the LC resonance between the grid inductance and the small DC link capacitance which results in a significant unwanted voltage ripples on the DC link. The unwanted harmonics affects the performance of the motor and distorts current drawn from the grid. The objective of this paper is to formulate, model and test a control algorithm to dampen the effects of the LC oscillations. This paper proposes a novel method of compensation that estimates the ideal DC link voltage without unwanted ripple and feed-forwards the estimated DC link voltage to the motor drive algorithm thereby altering the behavior of motor drive to be resistive to the ripple. By doing so the current drawn by the motor from the grid will be less distorted thereby, improving the power factor of the system and ensuring the system adheres to the harmonic standards.


The shaping of straight and curved canals produced by rotational instrumentational techniques was evaluated in 22 human molar root canals which were prepared in vitro. The technique for rotational instrumentation featured only clockwise rotations. The results were collected from preand postoperative radiographs as well as from scanning electron microscopic analysis of longitudinally ground sections of the roots and of the enlarging instruments. Each preparation was evaluated in terms of its curvature, flow, taper, apical design, and wall surface appearance. The instruments were examined for signs of physical deformation. Rotational techniques in straight canals did not alter the original shape of the canal. The results in moderately curved canals were inconsistent. The results of apical misshapings, perforations, and poor flow in severely curved canals were consistent. The presence of smear layer, debris, and instrument striations on the walls of the canals were observed regardless of the type of canal. Enlarging instruments showed areas of unwinding, blunting, and remaining dentin chips. This study has shown that the reaming technique is reliable only in shaping straight canals. In curved canals, the deleterious effects of reaming on the shape of the preparation were evident. This study suggests that the rotational techniques should be used discriminately as it not only significantly alters canal curvature but it also causes the physical deterioration of the enlarging instruments regardless of the type of canal they were used in.


The decline of the agriculture sector in the mid-1980s was concurrent with the increase of bank failures. Performance of banks specializing in agricultural lending mirrored sector performance. However, a subgroup of banks continued to lend to agriculture and maintained superior performance over the entire decade. Characteristics of these high performance banks and their lower performing counterparts are compared annually at both the National and United States Department of Agriculture Cropping Region level to identify factors leading to superior performance. Ratio analysis is performed using the criteria of solvency, profitability, liquidity, and efficiency. Selected ratios are employed in a logit model for classifying banks according to high or nonhigh performance. Model results were strong at the national level but weaker at the regional level possibly because of differences in agricultural production patterns and state banking laws. High-performance banks controlled costs, made less risky loans, and employed resources more efficiently.


Using atomic force microscopy (AFM) we performed dynamic force measurements of the adhesive forces in two model systems: avidin-biotin and streptavidin-biotin. In our experiments we used glutaraldehyde for immobilization of (strept)avidin on the tip and biotin on the sample surface. Such interface layers are more rigid than those usually reported in the literature for AFM studies, when (strept)avidin is coupled with biotinylated bovine albumin and biotin with agarose polymers. We determined the dependence of the rupture forces of avidin-biotin and streptavidin-biotin bonds in the range 300-9600 pN/s. The slope of a semilogarithmic plot of this relation changes at about 1700 pN/s. The existence of two different regimes indicates the presence of two activation barriers of these complexes during the dissociation process. The dissociation rates and activation energy barriers, calculated from the Bell model, for the avidin-biotin and streptavidin-biotin interactions are similar to each other for loading rates > 1700 pN/s but they are different from each other for loading rates < 1700 pN/s. In the latter case, the dissociation rates show a higher stability of the avidin-biotin complex than the streptavidin-biotin complex due to a larger outer activation barrier of 0.8 k(B)T. The bond-rupture force is about 20 pN higher for the avidin-biotin pair than for the streptavidin-biotin pair for loading rates < 1700 pN/s. These two experimental observations are in agreement with the known structural differences between the biotin binding pocket of avidin and of streptavidin.


The stranding of a suckling calf of Common Minke Whale  ( Balaenoptera acutorostrata ) on the coast near Salerno (Campania, Southern Italy) is reported. The molecular analysis of a partial sequence of the mitochondrial DNA control region shows that the animal bore a haplotype identical to haplotype Ba169 considered as typical of individuals from North Atlantic population. Historical data and our results suggest the possibility that the Mediterranean Sea might be a potential calving or nursery ground for this species.


This paper examines the role of tax policy reforms in enhancing fiscal shock smoothing in a panel of 13 OECD economies during the period 1980-2017. The results suggest that tax reforms, in particular those that broaden the tax base, significantly enhance the ability of fiscal policy to mitigate the impact of growth shocks on disposable income. We find that the magnitude of shock smoothing increases from an average of 2 percent to 3-31⁄2 percent following the reform. The effects are considerably higher for tax base than tax rate changes, and also higher for indirect tax than direct tax changes. The effects are symmetric—that is, the increase in shock smoothing following a reform expanding the tax base (rate) is similar to the decline in shock smoothing after a reform narrowing the tax base (rate). Tax elasticity, collection efficiency, and the progressivity of the tax system are important channels through which tax reforms affect fiscal stabilization. JEL Classification Numbers: H30, H32


The issue of co-ordination in welfare policy in the European Union (EU) has been the subject of many analyses and discussions, but still it has not attained the same level of importance given to the coordination of economic policy. The aim of the paper is to determine the situations and actions in Croatia and the EU in the eradication of poverty and social exclusion. The paper starts with the theoretical and methodological framework, which is followed by an account of the states of affairs in EU member-states. After the description of the situation in Croatia, especially of its advantages and disadvantages as compared to other transitional countries and future members of the EU, the paper ends with a conclusion and proposals for improvement.


When quantum gravity is used to discuss the big bang singularity, the most important, though rarely addressed, question is what role genuine quantum degrees of freedom play. Here, complete effective equations are derived for isotropic models with an interacting scalar to all orders in the expansions involved. The resulting coupling terms show that quantum fluctuations do not affect the bounce much. Quantum correlations, however, do have an important role and could even eliminate the bounce. How quantum gravity regularizes the big bang depends crucially on properties of the quantum state.


The iterative learning control (ILC) learns the unknown information from repeated control operations. The tracking error from previous stages is used as the correction factor for the next control action. Therefore, the ILC controller can make the system tracking error converge. to a small region within the limited numbers of iterations. In this paper, a proportional-valve controlled hydraulic cylinder system with repeated external loads is built to perform the position tracking control experiments. The PID and ILC controllers are implemented in these experiments and the results are compared. We use the P-type update law with delay parameter for its position tracking control. Experimental results show that the ILC controller can effectively control the system to track the repetitive position trajectory, especially in transient response that traditional control methods can't follow appropriately. Therefore, in this application, the control performance of the ILC is superior to the traditional PID controller.


The concept of microfluidics on foil opens up new opportunities for combining the advantages of having a flexible substrate with reel-to-reel processing, which has the potential to be the basis for extremely cheap micro products. To reach this goal, foil substrates must be combined with micro-manufacturing technologies that are well adapted to these substrates. Some technologies are already available, some are the subject of current research, and some still have to be conceived. In the current paper, technologies such as reel-to-reel embossing, reel-to-reel laminating, and laser ablation/cutting as well as laser welding will be discussed. The discussions include a brief review of the state of the art as well as a report on latest research results stemming from research by the present authors. Furthermore, this paper shows the vision of what can be achieved if foil-based technologies, such as polymer (opto-)electronics and microfluidics are combined. A polymer electronics-based alcohol sensor is presented as an example system.


Nigella sativa, Carica papaya and Boswellia sacra are medicinal plants in the commonly used in folkloric medicine due to the presence of its immense therapeutic properties. Fifty (50) female albino mice weighing between 15-22g were divided into five groups of 10 mice each. Animal in group 1 served as control group and were administered distilled water while animal in group 2 were given 2ml of cisplatin (orally). Animal in group 3-5 were given orally; 100 mg/kg (low dose), 200 mg/kg (medium dose) and 400 mg/kg (high dose) of triherbal preparation. The feeding regimens lasted for 28 days. After 28 days, mammary gland and blood samples were collected for haematological and antioxidant analysis. The triherbal formula decreased the GSH and MDA levels of mice treated with 100 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg doses compare to control. The measurement of total protein content, SOD and CAT increased in treated animals compared to control. However, RBC (Red Blood Cell) counts significantly decreased in the low, medium and high dose groups (0.95±0.08, 6.57±0.08 and 3.55±0.55 x 106 cells/mm3 respectively) compared to control (7.34±0.40) at P<0.05. Also, significant decreases (P<0.05) in the level of the total WBC (White Blood Cell) count, platelet count, PCV (Packed Cell Volume) and Hb (haemoglobin) concentration were observed. The decreases were dose dependent. The MCH (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin) and MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration) except MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) significantly decreased in treated group only. The triherbal formulation exhibited significant antioxidant activities showing increased levels of SOD, CAT and Protein content due to activation of the enzyme involve in detoxification of free radicals and decreased in the level of GSH and MDA due to accumulation of peroxides and H2O2. Also, decreased in haematological parameters due to the presence of phytochemicals such as phenol, resins, saponins, sterols, tannis and terpenes in the triherbal formula. Therefore, it has potential to induce haematotoxicity hence consumption of high concentrations should be discouraged.


To be able to compare the measured scattering matrices with model predictions, the quality of the measurements has to be known. Uncertainty analyses are invaluable to assess and improve the quality of measurement results in terms of accuracy and precision. Linear analyses are widespread, computationally fast and give information of the contribution of each error source to the overall measurement uncertainty; however, they cannot be applied in every situation. The purpose of this study is to determine if linear methods can be used to assess the quality of acoustic scattering matrices. The uncertainty in measured scattering matrices is assessed using a linear uncertainty analysis and the results are compared against Monte-Carlo simulations. It is shown that for plane waves, a linear uncertainty analysis, applied to the wave decomposition method, gives correct results when three conditions are satisfied. For higher order mode measurements, the number of conditions that have to be satisfied increases rapidly and the linear analysis becomes an unsuitable choice to determine the uncertainty on the scattering matrix coefficients. As the linear uncertainty analysis is most suitable for the plane wave range, an alternative linear method to assess the quality of the measurements is investigated. This method, based on matrix perturbation theory, gives qualitative information in the form of partial condition numbers and the implementation is straightforward. Using the alternative method, the measurements of higher order modes are analyzed and the observed difference in the measured reflection coefficients for different excitation conditions is explained by the disparity in modal amplitudes.


Background: The proper diagnosis and treatment of bone metastases are essential for patient survival. However, several strategies for the treatment are practiced. Therefore, the aim of the study was to analyze what factors influence the choice of a method of treatment. Methods: An online survey was conducted within the Polish Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology. It consisted of 45 questions and was divided into four main parts: Participant Characteristics, Diagnosis and Qualification, Treatment, and Clinical Cases. Results: A total number of 104 responses were collected. The most frequently chosen methods were: Intramedullary nail (IMN) + Resection + Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) (30.47%) and IMN without tumor resection (42.13%), and in third place, modular endoprosthesis (17.25%). The less experienced group of orthopedic surgeons more often (47.5% vs. 39.5%) decided to perform IMN without tumor resection than the more experienced group (p = 0.046). Surgeons from district hospitals less frequently (13.7% vs. 23.1%) would decide to use modular endoprosthesis than surgeons from university hospitals (p = 0.000076). Orthopedists who performed ≥ 11 bone metastases surgeries per year would more often use modular endoprosthesis (34.8% vs. 13.2%) than those who performed ≤ 10 operations per year (p = 0.000114). Conclusion: Experience, place of work, and the number of metastasis surgeries performed during a year may influence the choice of treatment method in patients with bone metastases.


Microwave communications systems require varistors for downconversion, limiting and detection. This paper describes the development of a device being manufactured for these uses in the common carrier bands at 4, 6, and 11 GHz. The barrier-forming metals are titanium and silver on n-type epitaxial gallium arsenide. Means of characterization and control of the required doping profile in the 0.5 µm-thick epitaxy will be discussed. Plated gold contacts overlaying deposited silicon dioxide are used with a miniature cartridge encapsulation.


Part 1: The Theory of Intersectional Analysis Introduction 1. Multiple Jeopardy, Multiple Consciousness: The Context of a Black Feminist Ideology (Deborah K. King) 2. Theorizing Race, Class, and Gender: The New Scholarship of Black Feminist Intellectuals and Black Women's Labor (Rose M. Brewer) 3. Toward a New Vision: Race, Class, and Gender as Categories of Analysis and Connection (Patricia Hill Collins) 4. Theorizing Difference from Multiracial Feminism (Maxine Baca Zinn and Bonnie Thornton Dill) 5. Doing Difference (Candace West and Sarah Fenstermaker) 6. Symposium on West and Fenstermaker's 'Doing Difference' (Patricia Hill Collins, Lionel A. Maldonado, Dana Y. Takagi, Barrie Thorne, Lynn Weber, and Howard Winant) 7. Reply (Re)Doing Difference (Candace West and Sarah Fenstermaker) Part 2: The Methodology of Intersectional Analysis: Qualitative Approaches The Saturated Model 8. An Exploratory Analysis of the Effects of Race, Class, and Gender on Student and Parent Mobility Aspirations (Daniel G. Solorzano) 9. Policing Boundaries: Race, Class, and Gender in Cartagena, Colombia (Joel Striecker) Intersectional Analysis with Four Social Locations 10. Gender, Race, Class, and the Trend Toward Early Motherhood: A Feminist Analysis of Teen Mothers in Contemporary Society (Janet L. Jacobs) 11. Masculinities and Athletic Careers (Michael A. Messner) Intersectional Analysis with Two Social Locations 12. Working-Class Women's Ways of Knowing: Effects of Gender, Race, and Class (Wendy Luttrell) Intersectional Analysis in Historical Studies 13. You Have to Have Some Fun to Go Along with your Work: The Interplay of Race, Class, Gender, and Leisure in the Industrial New South (M. Deborah Bialeschki and Kathryn Lynn Walbert) Part 3: The Methodology of Intersectional Analysis: Quantitative Approaches Introduction Quantitative Studies with Four Locations: Separate Group Analysis 14. Producing and Reproducing Class and Status Differences: Racial and Gender Gaps in US Employment and Retirement Income (Richard Hogan and Carolyn C. Perrucci) 15. Gender and Race Differences in the Predictors of Daily Health Practices among Older Adults (Mary P. Gallant and Gail P. Dorn) Quantitative Studies with Four Locations: Interaction Analysis 16. Relations among Socioeconomic Status Indicators and Health for African-Americans and Whites (Joan M. Ostrove, Pamela Feldman, and Nancy E. Adler) Quantitative Studies with Four Locations: Interactions Combined with Separate Group Analysis 17. Predictors of Fear of Criminal Victimization at School Among Adolescents (David C. May and Gregory Dunaway) 18. The Intersection of Race and Gender among Chemists: Assessing the Impact of Double Minority Status on Income (Marina A. Adler, Gijsberta J. Koelewijn-Strattner, and Joseph J. Lengermann) 19. Race, Gender, and Attitudes Toward Gender Stratification (Emily W. Kane) Quantitative Studies with Eight or More Locations: Separate Group Analysis 20. Parenting in Black and White Families: The Interaction of Gender with Race and Class (Shirley A. Hill and Joey Sprague) 21. When Expectations Work: Race and Socioeconomic Differences in School Performance (Karl L. Alexander, Doris R. Entwisle, and Samuel D. Bedinger) Quantitative Studies with Six or More Locations: Interaction Analysis 22. The Relationship of Race, Class, and Gender with Mathematics Achievement for Fifth-, Eighth-, and Eleventh-Grade Students in Pennsylvania Schools (Richard L. Kohr, James R. Masters, J. Robert Coldiron, Ross S. Blust, and Eugene W. Skiffington) 23. Women's STD Prevention and Detection Practices: The Specificity of Social Location (Erika Laine Austin) Quantitative Studies Using Separate Group Analysis with t-Tests 24. Are there Race and Gender Differences in the Effect of Marital Dissolution on Depression? (Kei M. Nomaguchi) 25. Generalized Expectancies for Control among High-School Students at the Intersection of Race, Class, and Gender (Brett A. Magill) 26. Race, Gender, and Class Variation in the Effect of Neighborhood Violence on Adolescent Use of Violence (Jennifer Castro and Bart Landry)


This research was undertaken on the basis of the marriage did what happened in the village of tanjung sub-district the Koto Kampar upstream district Kampar . Although marriage kinsmen is opposed to local customs , but it still often occurs. Although marriage kinsmen is opposed to local customs, but it still often occurs. The role of Ninik Mamak was needed to overcome marriage did this. If marriage was indeed contention did customs in country Tanjung , then should it is never going to happen. Then should it is never going to happen. Nevertheless , concomitant development era, as if there is no parapet someone to do the he wants this also could not be solved by Ninik Mamak country Tanjung. Development era is just one of the cause of the occurrence of marriage did. For that , in this research will give the cause of the writer and a result of the marriage the kinsmen . Research is done using that method is purposive sampling, type selection of the subject with no reshuffling of the subject with the consideration and certain criteria. To strengthen the research data obtained, the author also has an informant who considered of controversy with the problems in accordance with research who writers do. A subject in this research is a number of customary or Ninik Mamak stakeholders having social status respected as a person . Ninik Mamak is the important role in the customs and of course already understand about problems marriage did. Besides Ninik Mamak, a member of the local community also included as an informant in this research. Informants who truly important in this research is marriage did agents it self. Customary stakeholders used informants as many as five people , a member of the local community as many as six people and investors marriage did as many as five couples .The results obtained from this research is disapproval from the Ninik Mamak which marriage did indeed this is a subject which have been banned happened since the beginning the customs in country Tanjung . However, for couples and marriages one tribe has already made its desire to maintain that custom is one in the village of Tanjung, they must accept sanctions applied in the village of Tanjung.Keywords: marriage, tribe, causes and Ninik Mamak


Here, we show, for the first time, that the treatment of macrophages with Nrf2 mobilizers, known activators of antioxidant responses, increases the fraction of SAMHD1 without a regulatory phosphate at position 592. We demonstrate that this decreases infection of macrophages by HIV-1. ABSTRACT The cellular protein SAMHD1 is important for DNA repair, suppressing LINE elements, controlling deoxynucleoside triphosphate (dNTP) concentrations, maintaining HIV-1 latency, and preventing excessive type I interferon responses. SAMHD1 is also a potent inhibitor of HIV-1 and other significant viral pathogens. Infection restriction is due in part to the deoxynucleoside triphosphatase (dNTPase) activity of SAMHD1 but is also mediated through a dNTPase-independent mechanism that has been described but not explored. The phosphorylation of SAMHD1 at threonine 592 (T592) controls many of its functions. Retroviral restriction, irrespective of dNTPase activity, is linked to unphosphorylated T592. Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate, protects macrophages from HIV infection by mobilizing the transcription factor and antioxidant response regulator Nrf2. Here, we show that SFN and other clinically relevant Nrf2 mobilizers reduce SAMHD1 T592 phosphorylation to protect macrophages from HIV-1. We further show that SFN, through Nrf2, triggers the upregulation of the cell cycle control protein p21 in human monocyte-derived macrophages to contribute to SAMHD1 activation. We additionally present data that support another, potentially redox-dependent mechanism employed by SFN to contribute to SAMHD1 activation through reduced phosphorylation. This work establishes the use of exogenous Nrf2 mobilizers as a novel way to study virus restriction by SAMHD1 and highlights the Nrf2 pathway as a potential target for the therapeutic control of SAMHD1 cellular and antiviral functions. IMPORTANCE Here, we show, for the first time, that the treatment of macrophages with Nrf2 mobilizers, known activators of antioxidant responses, increases the fraction of SAMHD1 without a regulatory phosphate at position 592. We demonstrate that this decreases infection of macrophages by HIV-1. Phosphorylated SAMHD1 is important for DNA repair, the suppression of LINE elements, the maintenance of HIV-1 in a latent state, and the prevention of excessive type I interferon responses, while unphosphorylated SAMHD1 blocks HIV infection. SAMHD1 impacts many viruses and is involved in various cancers, so knowledge of how it works and how it is regulated has broad implications for the development of therapeutics. Redox-modulating therapeutics are already in clinical use or under investigation for the treatment of many conditions. Thus, understanding the impact of redox modifiers on controlling SAMHD1 phosphorylation is important for many areas of research in microbiology and beyond.


The enforcement work was accomplishments in vitro (Tissue culture and Germplasm Conservation Research Lab.) to study the effect of different laser rays in inducing growth behavior and leaf anatomical structure on Balanites aegyptiaca and  Contoneoster horizontalis , . Exposing Planlets of Balanites plants developing in vitro to various types of lasers (helium-neon laser, cadmium neon laser and Argon neon laser) at 20 minutes exposure time each separately. The results showed increase in vegetative growth performance, photosynthetic pigments and anatomical characteristics. Exposure time 20 min. He-Ne were more effective it increased of root length, root number, chlorophyll b, carotenoids, the thickness of both lamina and midvine, the number of xylem rows and number of vessels and dimensions bundle.While,20 min. exposure time Cd-Ne recorded highest values in shoot length, leaves number, chlorophyll a  and leaf anatomical structure as compared to untreated plants .      Exposing Planlets of Cotoneoster horizontalis plant in vitro to helium-neon laser, at 0, 2.5, 6.5 and 11.5 mints exposure time. The results showed increase in vegetative growth, photosynthetic pigments and anatomical characteristics. Treated plantlets with 2.5 min. exposure time He-Ne recorded highest increasing in shoot length, chlorophyll a, b, the thickness of lamina and midvine, the number of xylem rows, number of vessels and palisade thickness. 11.5 min. exposure time recorded increasing in leaves number, root length, root number, dimensions bundle and spongy thickness as compared to plantlets control plants. Key words: in vitro, laser rays, woody trees, leaf anatomy, photobiology


Behavioral end points for neurotoxicity risk assessment have been developed and examined over the past three decades. They are now ready to move from simple qualitative guidelines, such as exemplified by reference doses, to more quantitative models, such as benchmark doses, based on dose-response information. Risk assessors, confronted by a wider array of methodologies and data than in the past, should be offered guidance in interpretation because now they have to deal with unaccustomed questions and problems. These include reversibility, susceptible populations, multiple end points, and the details of dose-response and dose-effect distributions.


This study involves a European Erasmus+ project with the goal to encourage Open Science Schooling (OSS), where schools help to promote community well-being in cooperation with other stakeholders. Families, enterprises and society in general are actively involved in bringing real-life projects into the classroom. It is very important the interplay of local, regional and global contexts and dynamics in shaping education and development. This study evaluates the implementation of OSS methods in each of the schools participating using questionnaires designed specifically for this project. In one of the secondary schools students study the key role forests play in the fight against climate change, and the relationship of this natural resource with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).


Abstract Background: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are considered to be important regulators in cancer biology. In this study, we focused on the effect of circRNA baculoviral inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) repeat containing 6 (circBIRC6) on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression. Methods: The NSCLC and adjacent non-tumor tissues were collected at Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was conducted for assessing the levels of circBIRC6, amyloid beta precursor protein binding protein 2 (APPBP2) messenger RNA (mRNA), baculoviral IAP repeat containing 6 mRNA (BIRC6), and microRNA-217 (miR-217). Western blot assay was adopted for measuring the protein levels of APPBP2, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and vimentin. Colony formation assay, transwell assay, and flow cytometry analysis were utilized for evaluating cell colony formation, metastasis, and apoptosis. Dualluciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay were carried out to determine the interaction between miR-217 and circBIRC6 and APPBP2 in NSCLC tissues. The murine xenograft model assay was used to investigate the function of circBIRC6 in tumor formation in vivo. Differences were analyzed via Student's t test or one-way analysis of variance. Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis was used to analyze linear correlation. Results: CircBIRC6 was overexpressed in NSCLC tissues and cells. Knockdown of circBIRC6 repressed the colony formation and metastasis and facilitated apoptosis of NSCLC cells in vitro and restrained tumorigenesis in vivo. Mechanically, circBIRC6 functioned as miR-217 sponge to promote APPBP2 expression in NSCLC cells. MiR-217 inhibition rescued circBIRC6 knockdown-mediated effects on NSCLC cell colony formation, metastasis, and apoptosis. Overexpression of miR-217 inhibited the malignant phenotypes of NSCLC cells, while the effects were abrogated by elevating APPBP2. Conclusions: CircBIRC6 aggravated NSCLC cell progression by elevating APPBP2 via sponging miR-217, which might provide a fresh perspective on NSCLC therapy.


Dislocations of the sternoclavicular joint are relatively uncommon, but diagnosis and management can be difficult, with posterior dislocations being potentially very serious. The anatomy of the joint, and the mechanisms of dislocation, are described. The radiologic diagnosis is discussed and three case reports are presented to illustrate varieties of dislocation. Although computed tomography is the ideal method of demonstrating the sternoclavicular joint, some specialized plain film projections are often useful. These should be more widely known and are described and illustrated. Treatment is briefly discussed.


Restoring an edentulous mandibular arch opposing maxillary natural dentition with conventional occlusal schemes historically has proven to be extremely difficult. Using a noninterceptive anterior and posterior occlusal concept with a myostatic peripheral border extent provides a means to enhance stability of the mandibular prosthesis.


A mesoscopic simulation method combining multiphase Volume of Fluid (VOF) method and Dissipative Particle Dynamics (DPD) is employed to investigate and control self-assembly of charged polymeric nanoparticles in microdroplet solution deposited on plane substrate during solvent evaporation. A droplet evaporation model is first developed and validated. A coupling scheme between the CFD and the DPD simulation for particles is then presented. The DPD simulation includes the DLVO forces between the particles, their interaction with the substrate surface, Stokes drag, Brownian, and capillary forces. Numerical results show qualitative agreement with available experimental results. The proposed simulation method is expected to provide valuable tools for controlling and optimizing self-assembly of nanoparticles.


ABSTRACT Leishmania species are obligate intracellular protozoan parasites that cause a broad spectrum of clinical diseases in mammalian hosts. The most frequently used approach to quantify parasites in murine model systems is based on thickness measurements of the footpad or ear after experimental infection. To overcome the limitations of this method, we used a Leishmania mutant episomally transfected with enhanced green fluorescent protein, enabling in vivo real-time whole-body fluorescence imaging, to follow the progression of Leishmania infection in parasitized tissues. Fluorescence correlated with the number of Leishmania parasites in the tissue and demonstrated the real-time efficacy of a therapeutic vaccine. This approach provides several substantial advantages over currently available animal model systems for the in vivo study of immunopathogenesis, prevention, and therapy of leishmaniasis. These include improvements in sensitivity and the ability to acquire real-time data on progression and spread of the infection.


In the last several years, Twitter is being adopted by the companies as an alternative platform to interact with the customers to address their concerns. With the abundance of such unconventional conversation resources, push for developing effective virtual agents is more than ever. To address this challenge, a better understanding of such customer service conversations is required. Lately, there have been several works proposing a novel taxonomy for fine-grained dialogue acts as well as develop algorithms for automatic detection of these acts. The outcomes of these works are providing stepping stones for the ultimate goal of building efficient and effective virtual agents. But none of these works consider handling the notion of negation into the proposed algorithms. In this work, we developed an SVM-based dialogue acts prediction algorithm for Twitter customer service conversations where negation handling is an integral part of the end-to-end solution. For negation handling, we propose several efficient heuristics as well as adopt recent state-of- art third party machine learning based solutions. Empirically we show model's performance gain while handling negation compared to when we don't. Our experiments show that for the informal text such as tweets, the heuristic-based approach is more effective.


This paper examines optimal policy towards a home exporting firm which competes on price with a foreign firm. Two policy instruments are compared: an output subsidy and a price subsidy. The paper also considers two games: the conventional ex ante game, in which the government sets the value of the subsidy before firms set their prices, and the ex post game, where firms first set their prices in the anticipation of a subsidy by the government at the second stage. It is shown that the two types of subsidy are equivalent in the ex ante game and that a higher level of welfare can always be achieved in the ex ante than in the ex post game. This reinforces the view that optimal policy in a model characterized by Bertrand competition is an export tax rather than a subsidy.


The United States is experiencing an epidemic of obesity in both adults and children, particularly among low-income populations. In fact, overweight has replaced malnutrition as the most prevalent nutritional problem among the poor. We examine this seemingly paradoxical relationship and explore the causes and consequences of overweight, obesity and food insecurity. In a UC Cooperative Extension Body Weight and Health Workgroup study of 561 low-income Latino mothers and their young children, we found important differences in the association between family food insecurity and overweight status for mothers and their children. Forty percent of the women were overweight and 37% obese, and 22% of their children were overweight. Furthermore, U.S.-born mothers who were food insecure as children were more likely to be obese adults. Awareness and understanding of the link between food insecurity and weight gain will facilitate the efforts of schools, food assistance programs, the food industry and others in the community to provide effective nutritional programs.


ABSTRACT First Person is a series of interviews with the first authors of a selection of papers published in Journal of Cell Science, helping early-career researchers promote themselves alongside their papers. Guillaume Hatte is the first author on 'Tight junctions negatively regulate mechanical forces applied to adherens junctions in vertebrate epithelial tissue', published in Journal of Cell Science. Guillaume completed his PhD in the lab of Claude Prigent at CNRS UMR 6290 and Université de Rennes 1, Rennes, France, where he investigated the involvement of tight junctions during epithelial cell cytokinesis in a vertebrate model.


How does political theology, with its eschatologically themed commitment to both critique and constructive transformation of the social, economic, and political in the light of the Gospel, break through to a distressed Western polis focused on the immediate and the short-term, with almost no sense of a "future"? I suggest discipleship-as-performance and a temporal and sacramental "natural theology of desire," in tune with the revelation of the grace of God in Christ in time, as ways of addressing this conundrum and seconding Pope Francis's insight that "time is greater than space."


Background Patients undergoing chemotherapy are known to be at risk for infection from myelosuppression by cytotoxic agents (CTAs) or immunosuppressive effects from mTOR inhibitors. The infection risk of newly developed anticancer agents has not been fully evaluated. It remains unknown how T-cell activation induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) relates to infection. Methods We retrospectively examined infection risk in patients with cancer treated with investigational agents in a phase I study. The investigational agents were classified into four groups: CTA, phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor (PAM), molecular targeted agent (MTA) and ICI. All infection-related adverse events (AEs) during treatment were recorded. We compared the CTA, PAM and ICI with MTA, because MTA are already considered low risk and were used in the largest number of patients. Results A total of 641 patients were enrolled: 35 CTAs (5.5%), 61 PAMs (9.5%), 445 MTAs (69.4%) and 100 ICIs (15.6%). Among all patients, 132 (20.6%) experienced infection-related AEs and 46 (7.2%) developed 50 ≥grade 3 infection-related AEs. In any infection-related AEs, the ORs compared with MTAs were 2.19 (95% CI 1.03 to 4.66) for CTAs, 3.55 (95% CI 2.02 to 6.24) for PAMs and 1.05 (95% CI 0.60 to 1.85) for ICIs, respectively. In time to the first infection-related AE analysis, the risks for any infection-related AE from CTAs and PAMs were higher than those from MTAs (HR 1.84 (95% CI 0.82 to 4.11); p=0.05 and 3.96 (95% CI 2.18 to 7.22); p<0.001). The risk from ICIs was not significantly different from that of MTAs (HR 0.71 (95% CI 0.46 to 1.10); p=0.19). Conclusion Our results validate that PAMs and CTAs carry a higher infection risk in patients with advanced solid tumours compared with MTAs. We suggest that the infection risk of ICIs is a similar infection risk to MTAs.


SnO2 prepared with the sol-gel technique at different temperatures was used as an anode material of the lithium-ion battery. We obtained the qualititave relationship between the electrochemical performance of tin oxide anode material and each of its carbon component, particle size, structure and surface morphology in detail. It was found that the best electrochemical performance can be reached by controlling the physical characteristics of SnO2, which was affected greatly by the treatment temperature. The SnO2 obtained at 600℃ was pure. When it was used as the anode material of the lithium-ion battery, it demonstrated a high initial specific capacity of 770 mA · h/g.


In this study we explore the link between household expenditures and wealth across the age distribution by examining the elasticity of consumption spending from different types of wealth. We use a new source of harmonized wealth micro data for five countries: Canada, Finland, Italy, Germany and the US. Our results indicate that the effect of housing wealth dominates the effect of financial wealth in Finland, Italy, Germany, the US, and also in Canada for certain age groups. We find consumption responsiveness to housing wealth to be statistically significantly lower for younger households. The analysis also confirms the existence of between-country differences.


The exploitation of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) in electrochemical applications is approaching its limits because of its poor thermo-mechanical properties. These properties could be improved by chemical and/or physical modification, including grafting and/or crosslinking techniques. In this work, acrylonitrile (ACN) has been successfully grafted onto ENR- 25 by a radical photopolymerization technique. The effect of (ACN to ENR) mole ratios on chemical structure and interaction, thermo-mechanical behaviour and that related to the viscoelastic properties of the polymer was investigated. The existence of the –C≡N functional group at the end-product of ACN-g-ENR is confirmed by infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses. An enhanced grafting efficiency (~57%) was obtained after ACN was grafted onto the isoprene unit of ENR- 25 and showing a significant improvement in thermal stability and dielectric properties. The viscoelastic behaviour of the sample analysis showed an increase of storage modulus up to 150 × 103 MPa and the temperature of glass transition (Tg) was between −40 and 10 °C. The loss modulus, relaxation process, and tan delta were also described. Overall, the ACN-g-ENR shows a distinctive improvement in characteristics compared to ENR and can be widely used in many applications where natural rubber is used but improved thermal and mechanical properties are required. Likewise, it may also be used in electronic applications, for example, as a polymer electrolyte in batteries or supercapacitor.


Cyberbullying is characterized as one of the different types of violence in educational contexts and is one of the main causes of uneasiness felt by its protagonists. It is also considered as one of the challenges of contemporary education. The study inserted in the project Cyberbullying - a diagnosis of the situation in Portugalintended to understand the phenomenon, its extension and nature through the experience of 118 first year psychology students in the Portuguese public higher education system. Participants responded to a questionnaire of open and closed-ended questions. From the analyses done we understand the students' perceptions regarding the phenomenon, as well as the fundamental importance peers, teachers and parents/legal guardians have in coping with and preventing cyberbullying. These results demonstrate that there is the need to systemically develop communities that may internally strengthen themselves so that each individual feels authorized to intervene and care for those that are the victims of violence.


ABSTRACT:This article examines the recently established archive of Tina De Rosa, whose literary achievement in Paper Fish (1980) made possible the deposition of her papers in 2010 at the University of Illinois at Chicago. The De Rosa papers invite a reconsideration of this author's major work, especially in light of the extant versions of her second novel, Blakey's Dance , which the author had finished but could neither release nor revise to her satisfaction and remained unpublished. The essay argues that the De Rosa archive of materials, including prayer journals, notes, and sketchbooks, illuminate a trauma that emotionally affected the writer's entire life and was partly a result of the urban renewal project that destroyed her Italian American neighborhood but was also about the larger transgressions of the Catholic Church as revealed by the archive. By offering a multifaceted approach to reading De Rosa's archive, the article uncovers overlapping narratives about provenance, poverty, faith, and disability, arguing that this archive supplements her work on the relationship between the trauma of urban renewal and the disabled body. Archival transcripts reveal the author's struggle to repress harrowing experiences of displacement, precarity, and mental and spiritual struggle. What survives in the Tina De Rosa Papers is a compelling response to a destruction of a marginalized community, a disabled sister, and a deeply ambivalent critique of the Catholic Church.


Abstract Górski, P., Romański, M. & Tomaszewski, D. 2019. Seeking for habitat characteristics which determine epixylic liverwort Fuscocephaloziopsis catenulata occurrence in old boreal forests in north-eastern Poland. – Herzogia 32: 172–182. The aim of the study was to establish habitat properties that determine the occurrence of an epixylic liverwort Fuscocephaloziopsis (= Cephalozia) catenulata, and to disclose the reasons for its rarity in forest communities. Observations were conducted in a primeval forest in Wigry National Park (NE Poland). We performed hourly measurements of temperature and humidity on selected logs covered and not covered with F. catenulata. We also determined light parameters (direct and diffuse solar radiation) of the investigated sites. The study showed that Fuscocephaloziopsis catenulata prefers habitats with more stable temperature and humidity throughout a day. We demonstrated significant preference of the species for log spots with higher direct solar radiation caused by canopy disturbances. The reason for F. catenulata rarity may be a required combination of stable thermal and humidity conditions and increased light access.


Resume Juvenile oyster disease (JOD) in the eastern oyster, Crus.rosrrea virginica, is characterized by a conchiolin deposit on the inner surface of the valves. Similarities to pathological syndromes affecting other oysters (pearl oyster mortality) and clams (brown ring disease), has suggested an infectious origin and a possible bacterial etiology. Bacteriological analysis (Total Heterotrophic Bacteria, THB and Total Vibrio sp., TVS) of oyster soft tissues, shell fluid and inncr shell surfaces were monitored during the course of JOD onset and development. A significant increase in THB (but not TVS) occurrcd in shcll fluid and at the surface of the inner shell of JOD affected oysters. At the same time, changes in cytometric parameters (Total Hemocyte Counts, THC; Differential Hemocyte Counts, DHC) in hemolymph and shell fluid were documented in symptomatic oysters. THC in the shell fluid showed a decrease in late-stage JOD oysters. The disease was also correlated with altered ce11 ratios in both hemolymph and shell fluid, resulting in an increase in the percentage of the granulocytes in both locations. Our results have showed that main pathological changes associated with JOD occurred in extrapallial region rather than in the soft tissues. The disease was transmitted in the laboratory by extracts from diseased oysters: anomalous conchiolin developed within 4 weeks and the prevalence was higher when two inoculations were performed rather than one. A number of bacterial strains were found at high levels in diseased oysters and isolated. However, none produced the JOD deposit when injected into asymptomatic oysters. The bacterial etiology hypothesis for JOD should be explored further, expanded beyond the family Vibrionaceae, and should include consideration of a multiple etiology.


We perform a general group-theoretical study of the Kondo problem in monolayer and bilayer graphene around the charge neutrality point. Utilizing the group representation theory, we derive from symmetry considerations a family of the Kondo models for all symmetric placements with either 3- or 6-fold rotational axis of an impurity atom in an arbitrary orbital state. We find six possible classes of the partially anisotropic four-channel Kondo model. As the key result, we argue several possibilities to realize the regime of the dominant channel-symmetric two-channel Kondo effect, protected by the local symmetry and specifics of the graphene band structure. Our findings open prospects for the observation of the rich multi-channel Kondo physics in graphene and the associated non-Fermi-liquid behavior.


In this Letter, a Gabor superlens with variable focus is presented. This configuration uses tunable liquid lenses in the third microlens array of the Gabor superlens. By applying voltage, the radius of curvature of the micro-tunable doublet arrays changes, and the Gabor conditions are fulfilled at different focal planes. As a consequence, the magnification of the image at the focal planes changes, and a zoom effect is observed. The marginal depth plane for this system goes from 0.86 to 0.89 mm. The optical simulation, calculations, and results of the simulated optical system performance are presented.


We present a grammar for a robust class of data types that includes algebraic data types (ADTs), (truly) nested types, generalized algebraic data types (GADTs), and their higher-kinded analogues. All of the data types our grammar defines, as well as their associated type constructors, are shown to have fully functorial initial algebra semantics in locally presentable categories. Since local presentability is a modest hypothesis, needed for such semantics for even the simplest ADTs, our semantic framework is actually quite conservative. Our results thus provide evidence that if a category supports fully functorial initial algebra semantics for standard ADTs, then it does so for advanced higher-kinded data types as well. To give our semantics we introduce a new type former called Lan. that captures on the syntactic level the categorical notion of a left Kan extension. We show how left Kan extensions capture propagation of a data type's syntactic generators across the entire universe of types, via a certain completion procedure, so that the type constructor associated with a data type becomes a bonafide functor with a canonical action on morphisms. A by-product of our semantics is a precise measure of the semantic complexity of data types, given by the least cardinal $\lambda$ for which the functor underlying a data type is $\lambda$ -accessible. The proof of our main result allows this cardinal to be read off from a data type definition without much effort. It also gives a sufficient condition for a data type to have semantic complexity $\omega$, thus characterizing those data types whose data elements are effectively enumerable.


Through the rapid development of LED TV, a large-area edge-lit backlight unit is widely researched in the display industry for enhancing the optical efficiency, luminous uniformity and slim design. In addition, an edge-lit backlight unit includes many optical sheets such as reflection sheet, prism sheet and diffuser sheet. However the function can be replaced by the carefully patterned light guide plate (LGP). Micro patterns which located on the top and bottom surface of light guide plate was designed by ray-tracing optical simulation. The designed patterns improved the light characteristics of LGP, including optical extraction efficiency and intensity distribution uniformity. These results suggest that it is very effective method to design edge-lit LGP with micro-patterns on both sides for large-area display and to reduce the fabrication cost.


The Theory of Regulation and the Economic Theory of Regulatory Constraint have not yet been adapted by American Indian Studies scholars to explain and analyze the federal regulations connected with Federal Indian Law and Policy. It is the intention of this thesis to prove the applicability of these theories to the law and policy concentration of American Indian Studies. The adaptation of these two theories could impact how federal regulations affecting Indian Country are viewed and interpreted. An examination of Federal Indian policy, specifically the regulations (43 CFR 10) promulgated for the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Section 106 tribal consultation processes (36 CFR PART 800) can provide a case study for understanding the applicability of the Theory of Regulation and the Economic Theory of Regulatory Constraint to a common regulatory process in Federal Indian Law.


The relationship between adenovirus replication and late transcription has been investigated using viral replication and transcription complexes isolated from infected HeLa cell nuclei. These two types of complexes extracted from adenovirus type 2-infected cell nuclei did not sediment at the same rate on sucrose gradients. Viral replicative intermediates were quantitatively precipitated by immunoglobulins raised against purified 72,000-dalton DNA-binding protein, whereas viral transcription complexes remained in the supernatant. These results show that late transcription does not occur on active replication complexes or on 72,000-dalton DNA-binding protein-containing replicative intermediates inactive in DNA synthesis. Additional evidence is presented indicating that it is very unlikely that replicative intermediates lacking the 72,000-dalton DNA-binding protein could be the template for late transcription.


The paper describes the results of directional measurements on pulse signals reflected from the ionosphere, on various frequencies in the range 2 to 15 Mc/s. The measurements have been made at vertical and oblique incidence (distance 700 km), and the observed directional variations have been interpreted in terms of ionospheric tilts. At any instant the direction of the tilt may be regarded as random; the magnitude is found to be similar, on the average, in each of two orthogonal directions. The way in which the tilts change with time and distance have been studied, the latter by means of observations using either spaced receivers or transmitters. The tilts at a given point in region F are found to be uncorrelated at a time interval of about 5 min during the day and about 10 min during the night. At a given time they are uncorrelated at points separated horizontally by about 50 km. There is appreciable negative correlation at greater time intervals at a single point, and there may be a similar effect in the space-correlation. Observations are described which indicate large-scale horizontal movements in the ionosphere. In the sporadic E layer these appear to be in the nature of drifting clouds of ionization, while in the F layer the effects are such as would be produced by horizontally travelling ripples in the surfaces of constant ionization density. These ripples have wave-lengths of 50 to 400 km and speeds up to 350 m/s. The direction of motion tends to be more often towards the east or west than towards the north or south, and evidence of a diurnal change has been obtained.


As we age, our arteries elongate and our brains "sag." As a consequence of these processes, redundant arterial loops and bridging or intrinsic hindbrain veins may cause cross-compression of cranial nerve root entry zones in the cerebellopontine angle. This pulsatile compression can be seen to produce hyperactive dysfunction of the cranial nerve. Symptoms of trigeminal or glossopharyngeal neuralgia (somatic sensory), hemifacial spasm (somatic motor), tinnitus and vertigo (special sensory) and some cases of "essential" hypertension are caused by these vessels compressing cranial nerves V, IX-X, VII, VIII, and left X and medulla oblongata. Using microsurgical techniques, the symptoms may be relieved by vascular decompression, findings and results in 695 patients are briefly reviewed and correlated. A chronic primate model of "essential" hypertension is briefly described.


The rapid development of the digital information society has shaken the creative content sector to its very foundations and has upset the balance between right holders, intermediaries and users. On the one hand, there is more creative content available, creators can produce and distribute their works to a wider public at a low cost, independently of physical constraints and across borders. On the other hand, right holders have lost the power to control the (re)distribution of their creations and, despite the stimulation of technological protection measures, continue to face a swelling problem of digital counterfeiting, piracy and dropping sale numbers. To resolve the issue of illegal sharing of copyright protected content certain Member States increasingly seek refuge to collaboration with internet service providers, sometimes resulting in close surveillance of users' digital sharing behaviour and limitations on access to the internet. Due to these developments the once established "neutral" role of internet service providers and the e-commerce regime exempting them of liability is put under considerable pressure. Furthermore, the regulatory instruments for the protection of copyright and creativity no longer seem capable of guaranteeing rightholders a fair return on their creative investments while ensuring the public's access to information and respect for privacy. In this paper an interdisciplinary comparative analysis will be made and a closer look will be taken into the recent debates that took place in Belgium and the United Kingdom since the adoption of the (French) three strikes approach. The different speed by which these countries seek solutions to restore the balance and the eagerly awaited interpretations by the European Court of Justice in the SABAM/Scarlet case and the High Court's judicial review will be critically analysed to shed a light on the future of the three strikes approach.


Polar environments are characterized by unique physical and chemical conditions for the development of life. Low temperatures and the seasonality of light create one of the most extreme habitats on Earth. The Arctic sea ice cover not only acts as an insulator for heat and energy exchange processes between ocean and atmosphere but also serves as a unique habitat for a specialized community of organisms, consisting of bacteria, algae, protozoa and metazoa. The primary production of sea ice algae may play a crucial role in the life cycle of planktonic and benthic organisms. Thus, a reduction of the sea ice extent due to environmental changes will influence the structure and processes of communities living inside the ice and pelagic realms.


Purpose: It has recently been recognized that Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is an important factor in the pathogenesis of recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) in children. But, the best treatment for H. pylori infection is still unsettled. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of 2 weeks dual therapy with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and amoxicillin for children with H. pylori infection associated with RAP. Method: Our study included 24 children with RAP who were H. pylori positive assessed by CLO test and histologic examination (silver stain). We used the regimen consisted of PPI (omeprazole, 0.7 mg/kg/day) and amoxicillin (50 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks to eradicate H. pylori. Eradication of H. pylori was determined 4 weeks after the termination of treatment using the CLO test and histologic examination. Results: The endoscopic diagnoses of patients were nodular gastritis in 11 cases, superficial gastritis in 7 cases, peptic ulcer in 4 cases and normal finding in 2 cases. H. pylori was eradicated in 12 cases by omeprazole and amoxicillin dual therapy for 2 weeks and the eradication rate was 50%. In 4 of 12 children in whom H. pylori had not been eradicated with that regimen, we successfully eradicated H. pylori with other regimens of which 2 or 3 drugs among omeprazole, amoxicillin, clarithromycin, colloidal bismuth subcitrate (Denol) and metronidazole were used. Conclusion: The dual therapy with PPI and amoxicillin for 2 weeks had no clear advantage over other regimens for the eradication of H. pylori infection in children. We concluded that the combi-


Extensive agricultural use of neonicotinoid insecticide products has resulted in the presence of neonicotinoid mixtures in surface waters worldwide. Although many aquatic insect species are known to be sensitive to neonicotinoids, the impact of neonicotinoid mixtures is poorly understood. In the present study, the cumulative toxicities of binary and ternary mixtures of select neonicotinoids (imidacloprid, clothianidin, and thiamethoxam) were characterized under acute (96‐h) exposure scenarios using the larval midge Chironomus dilutus as a representative aquatic insect species. Using the MIXTOX approach, predictive parametric models were fitted and statistically compared with observed toxicity in subsequent mixture tests. Single‐compound toxicity tests yielded median lethal concentration (LC50) values of 4.63, 5.93, and 55.34 μg/L for imidacloprid, clothianidin, and thiamethoxam, respectively. Because of the similar modes of action of neonicotinoids, concentration‐additive cumulative mixture toxicity was the predicted model. However, we found that imidacloprid–clothianidin mixtures demonstrated response‐additive dose‐level–dependent synergism, clothianidin–thiamethoxam mixtures demonstrated concentration‐additive synergism, and imidacloprid–thiamethoxam mixtures demonstrated response‐additive dose‐ratio–dependent synergism, with toxicity shifting from antagonism to synergism as the relative concentration of thiamethoxam increased. Imidacloprid–clothianidin–thiamethoxam ternary mixtures demonstrated response‐additive synergism. These results indicate that, under acute exposure scenarios, the toxicity of neonicotinoid mixtures to C. dilutus cannot be predicted using the common assumption of additive joint activity. Indeed, the overarching trend of synergistic deviation emphasizes the need for further research into the ecotoxicological effects of neonicotinoid insecticide mixtures in field settings, the development of better toxicity models for neonicotinoid mixture exposures, and the consideration of mixture effects when setting water quality guidelines for this class of pesticides. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:3091–3101. © 2017 SETAC


Inner workings: The X-ray crystal structure of the entire bacterial complex I at 3.3 Å resolution offers fascinating insights into a giant 536 kDa molecular machine. The respiratory chain complex seems to employ unique mechanisms of energetic coupling that are entirely different from those found in all other enzymes using redox energy to drive vectorial proton transport across a bioenergetic membrane.


Cross sections and branching ratios for the dissociative recombination (DR) reactions of the astrophysically important ions HN2+, HCO+, DOCO+, and SO2+ at reactant kinetic energies from 1 to 1000 meV have been measured using the CRYRING ion storage ring facility at the Manne Siegbahn Laboratory, Stockholm University. Whereas the break-up of the N-N bond leading to NH + N is the major pathway in the DR of HN2+, the analogous reaction in HCO+ almost exclusively leads to H and CO. In the DR of both DOCO+ and SO2+ three-body break-up was observed. Inclusion of the newly measured branching ratios into a standard model on dark interstellar clouds leads to an improvement of the predictions of such models, especially concerning the abundances of nitrogen compounds. The impact of these newly found branching ratios and reaction rates on the chemistry of different astronomical environments like dark clouds, circumstellar envelopes and planetary ionospheres, is discussed.


In the nonlithified Cretaceous and Tertiary sediments of eastern and southeastern United States, two different, readily recognizable mineral assemblages are nearly ubiquitous. One, termed a "full" suite, generally contains the following minerals: (1) epidote, garnet, staurolite, zircon, kyanite, hornblende, sillimanite, tourmaline, rutile, and monazite among the heavy nonopaque minerals; (2) quartz, muscovite, and feldspar among the light minerals; and (3) the clay minerals montmorillonite and kaolinite. The other mineral suite contains an impoverished or "limited" assemblage: (1) the heavy, nonopaque minerals zircon, tourmaline, staurolite, kyanite, rutile, sillimanite, and monazite; (2) the light minerals quartz and muscovite; and (3) the clay mineral kaolinite. The full assemblage is characteristic of sediments of distinctly marine origin, whereas the limited suite commonly is associated with sediments interpreted as originating in a fluvial or littoral environment. Analysis of outcropping sediments demonstrates that, upward in a section, a full assemblage may change to a limited assemblage where the strata are porous, permeable, and stand topographically high. Fluvial or littoral sands in outcrop or in the shallow subsurface contain limited assemblages, whereas their downdip marine equivalents contain a full suite. These two distinctly different mineral suites are not necessarily the result of changes in provenance, source-area climate, or tectonic stability. Instead, they should be attributed in large part to postdepositional subaerial weathering and intrastratal solution. Reevaluation of mineral analyses of Cretaceous and Tertiary sediments in the eastern and southeastern United States to include consideration of postdepositional subaerial weathering End_Page 783------------------------------ and intrastratal solution will require revision of some previous interpretations of their provenance and of some prior reconstructions of the paleoclimate and paleotectonics. End_of_Article - Last_Page 784------------


Active objects are programming constructs that abstract distribution and help to handle concurrency. In this paper, we extend the multiactive object programming model to offer a priority specification mechanism. This mechanism allows programmers to have control on the scheduling of requests. The priority representation is based on a dependency graph which makes it very convenient to use. This article shows how to use this mechanism from the programmer side, and exposes the main properties of the dependency graph. The software architecture of our implementation is also presented, as it can be applied to various scheduling systems. Finally, we validate our approach through a microbenchmark that shows that the overhead of our priority representation is rather low. On the whole, we provide a general pattern to introduce a prioritized scheduling in active objects or in any other concurrent systems. The resulting framework is shown to be fine-grained, user-friendly, and efficient.


SUMMARY This papers aims at familiarizing psychiatric and nonpsychiatric readers with delusional infestation (DI), also known as delusional parasitosis. It is characterized by the fixed belief of being infested with pathogens against all medical evidence. DI is no single disorder but can occur as a delusional disorder of the somatic type (primary DI) or secondary to numerous other conditions. A set of minimal diagnostic criteria and a classification are provided. Patients with DI pose a truly interdisciplinary problem to the medical system. They avoid psychiatrists and consult dermatologists, microbiologists, or general practitioners but often lose faith in professional medicine. Epidemiology and history suggest that the imaginary pathogens change constantly, while the delusional theme "infestation" is stable and ubiquitous. Patients with self-diagnosed "Morgellons disease" can be seen as a variation of this delusional theme. For clinicians, clinical pathways for efficient diagnostics and etiology-specific treatment are provided. Specialized outpatient clinics in dermatology with a liaison psychiatrist are theoretically best placed to provide care. The most intricate problem is to engage patients in psychiatric therapy. In primary DI, antipsychotics are the treatment of choice, according to limited but sufficient evidence. Pimozide is no longer the treatment of choice for reasons of drug safety. Future research should focus on pathophysiology and the neural basis of DI, as well as on conclusive clinical trials, which are widely lacking. Innovative approaches will be needed, since otherwise patients are unlikely to adhere to any study protocol.


We report on a 5-year-old boy with bilateral coloboma of iris, short stature, moderate developmental delay, and a few minor craniofacial anomalies. High-resolution GTG banding showed a small distal deletion of one chromosome 16 [del(16)(q23.1q24.2)]. Molecular refinement of the deletion breakpoints yielded that the proximal breakpoint at 16q23.1 is located between loci D16S395 (present) and D16S348 (absent). Comparison with previously published cases of deletion 16q demonstrated that the clinical phenotype is not a recognizable 16q- syndrome and different from the two cases of deletions of 16(q22.1 to q24.1) described by Callen et al. [1993]. Evidently, deletion 16(q23.1q24.2) has a milder phenotypic effect than other interstitial and distal 16q deletions.


The construction of the IceCube neutrino observatory is practically terminated. At the time of this writing, and with 79 strings taking data out of the 86 foreseen, we are one deployment season away from completion. The detector, however, has been taking data since 2006 in different partial configurations. We have evaluated these data for evidence of dark matter annihilations in the Sun, in the Galactic Center and in the Galactic Halo, searching for an excess neutrino flux over the expected atmospheric neutrino background. This contribution reviews the results of dark matter searches for WIMPs, Kaluza-Klein modes and superheavy candidates (Simpzillas), using the 22and 40-string configurations of IceCube. The results are presented in the form of muon flux limits, constrains on the candidates' spin-dependent cross-section with protons, and constrains in the self-annihilation cross section. These results are presented in the context of direct searches and searches in space.