An ozone sonde capable of measuring and transmitting the local ozone concentration has been developed for the I. G. Y. and is described in some detail. A continuous electrochemical detector measures the ozone concentration, providing a d. c. electric current of 0 to 5 μA according to the amount of ozone in the air passed through it. This output current is telemetered by a current-controlled variable inductance which is interchangeable with a standard inductance coil in a Kew radiosonde. The element is of low cost, weighs about 600 g and requires very limited auxiliary equipment for its use. Sixty-five successful ascents have been made and the results of the European ascents are given.


Disease management (DM) has become a widely accepted way to support care delivery in the chronically ill patient population. Patients enrolled in these programs have been shown to have better health, fewer complications and comorbidities, and lower health care costs. The development of advanced information management technologies is further enhancing the role DM plays in optimizing outcomes and cost-effectiveness in clinical care. These emerging information management technologies (EIMT) include advances in software, hardware, and networking, all of which share common impact attributes in their ability to improve cost-effectiveness of care, quality of care, and access to care. Specific examples include interactive websites with the ability to engage patients in the self-care management process, the embedding of biometric devices (digital scales, modem-enabled glucose meters in the home, blood pressure monitoring, etc.), workflow and care coordination programs that add intelligence via guideline-directed alerts and reminders to the delivery process, registries that include a summary of personal health data that can be used as a reference point for improved clinical decisions, and the systematic collection of aggregated, de-identified clinical, administrative, and cost data into comprehensive data sets to which predictive modeling analytic tools can be applied. By way of case example, we also present data from a controlled clinical trial utilizing EIMT in the form of home-based weight measurement using a digital scale and linkage to a care coordination center for the management of severe congestive heart failure. Outcome results on 85,515 patient-months of an aggregate commercial and Medicare continuously enrolled population demonstrated an average reduction of care utilization (hospitalization) of 57% and a reduction in related delivery cost (per member per year payments) of 55%. We conclude that EIMT have already begun to offer significant and quantifiable benefits to DM and are likely to become heavily embedded in care management strategies in the future.


The presented work investigates the hydro-meteorological and hydro-climatological drivers of widespread floods in Central Europe during the past century. Due to the strong seasonality of the detected flood drivers, the thesis is divided into two parts: the first part focuses on widespread winter floods and the second one on extreme summer floods. For analysing past flood events, we profited from the dynamically downscaled centennial ERA-20C reanalysis (continuously from 1901—2010). The downscaling was performed over Europe with a coupled regional atmosphere-ocean model (COSMO-CLM+NEMO) to represent the water cycle more realistic. These high resolution atmospheric data allowed us to study the four-dimensional atmospheric state during selected floods during the early decades of the 20th century for the first time with such a high temporal and spatial resolution. During the winter half-year, the observed floods were particularly widespread. High peak discharges were recorded simultaneously in the Rhine, Elbe, and Danube catchments. Most of these trans-basin floods were compound events caused by rainfall during extensive snowmelt (i.e., rain-on-snow events). Interestingly, the winter flood time series exhibited a remarkable high flood frequency during the 1940s and 1980s, while other decades were flood-poor. We detected a synchronization of the inter-annual flood frequency with the superposition of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and the Scandinavian pattern (SCA). The negative NAO phase is often associated with large snowfall and cyclone tracks over southern Europe, while the negative SCA pattern correlates with total precipitation in the affected river catchments. During the summer half-year, most extreme floods in Central Europe were caused by so-called Vb-cyclones propagating from the Mediterranean Sea north-eastward to Central Europe. So far in the literature, only a few Vb-events, which occurred during the past two decades, have been analysed. We extended the previous case studies by several past Vb-cyclone floods since 1900. We investigated the processes that intensify Vb-cyclone precipitation with Lagrangian moisture-source diagnostics and the parametric transfer entropy measure TE-linear. Overall, an enhanced and dynamically driven moisture uptake over the Mediterranean Sea was found to be characteristic for Vb-events with heavy precipitation. This is supported by high information exchange from evaporation over the western basin of the Mediterranean Sea towards heavy precipitation in the Odra catchment. The dominating moisture uptake regions during the investigated events were, however, the European continent and the North Sea. A possible cause could be the pre-moistening of non-saturated continental moisture sources upstream of the affected river catchments as indicated by significant information exchange from land surface evaporation and soil moisture content along the Vb-cyclone pathway. Besides, evaporation over the Mediterranean Sea might contribute to Vb-cyclone intensification in the early stages of their development through latent heat release. On the catchment scale, orographic rainfall and convective precipitation further enhance the flood triggering rainfall. As expected, the Vb-cyclones mainly trigger precipitation along west-east orientated mountain ranges such as the Alps or Ore mountains due to their meridional pathway. Remarkably, during summer, we detected a convective fraction of up to 90% during the afternoons of individual days and up to 23% on average (based on convective cell tracking and convection-permitting simulations of selected flood events since 1900). The presented analyses deepened the knowledge on atmospheric and hydroclimatic drivers of widespread floods in Central Europe. This will serve as a basis for future studies on the predictability of floods induced by rain-on-snow and Vb-cyclone precipitation events in the context of a changing climate.


Restoration of rotational and translational stability is a goal of ACL reconstruction. Intraoperative instability measurements of AP translation and rotation are not well established clinically. We compared navigated measurements of tibial AP translation and rotation with mechanical measuring devices: the KT 1000 and a modified goniometer tool. Tests were repeated with intact and dissected ACLs, and measures of translation and rotation statistically compared. There was no significant difference in AP translation between navigation, 3.2 mm (range 1-6 mm) and the KT 1000, 4.8 mm (range, 4-7 mm) in our experimental set up (p>0.05). Tibial rotation revealed no significant difference, 0.12 degrees (range, 0 degrees -1 degrees ) between navigation and goniometer (p>0.05). Total range of rotation was 4.2 degrees (range, 2 degrees -6 degrees ) in intact and 7.05 degrees (range, 4 degrees -9 degrees ) in dissected ACLs (p<0.05). Stability parameters in ACL navigation can be measured precisely under laboratory conditions and results are not significantly different from mechanical testing devices.


caeruleus. Alterations such as nerve cell loss and atrophy, presence of Lewy bodies, and neurofibrillary tangles within nerve cells occurred to a significant extent in cases of dementia pugilistica in retired professional boxers, Parkinson's disease, Jakob-Creutzfeldt disease, and progressive supranuclear palsy; but they were minimal in normally aged control individuals (age range 30-97 years) and in those with motor neurone disease. Proteinsynthesising capability, as indicated by nucleolar volume,3 was reduced significantly in remaining cells in cases of dementia pugilistica and JakobCreutzfeldt disease; but it was unaltered, even in the middle-aged and elderly controls, in motor neurone disease, and in the few remaining cells in cases of Parkinson's disease and progressive supranuclear palsy. A variable degree of mental impairment was common to all cases in this study where there was involvement of the locus caeruleus, ranging from mild loss of intellectual powers and confusion in cases of Parkinson's disease to overt dementia in cases of dementia pugilistica and Jakob-Creutzfeldt disease-cases of progressive supranuclear palsy being intermediate in this respect. By contrast, the control group, which was specifically screened for loss of mental ability, and the cases in the motor neurone disease group were all mentally preserved. Adrenergic pathways from the locus caeruleus and dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve, in conjunction with afferents to these regions from the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei of the hypothalamus, form a system which through its connections with the periphery maintains homoeostasis within the central nervous system against adverse extracerebral conditions.4 These pathways seem to regulate the permeability of the brain's microcirculation to water and water-soluble metabolites.4 It is, therefore, possible that the mental impairment or, more specifically, the dementia that is seen in Alzheimer's disease, and to varying extents in the other conditions we have outlined, is related to a breakdown in the functional integrity of this homoeostasis-maintaining system. Such an impairment would lead to disturbed transport between brain and circulation, with widespread consequences for the nerve cells' capability to produce the proteins for correct neurophysical function.5


OBJECTIVE End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is one of the most severe complications in type 1 diabetes. We aimed to estimate the cumulative incidence of ESRD in individuals with childhood-onset type 1 diabetes followed for up to 42 years. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Data were based on the nationwide, population-based Norwegian Childhood Diabetes Registry and included case patients with new-onset type 1 diabetes (age <15 years) who had received a diagnosis during the periods 1973–1982 and 1989–2012. Follow-up took place until the development of ESRD, death, emigration, or 30 November 2015. We estimated the cumulative incidence of ESRD by linking to the Norwegian Renal Registry. RESULTS Among the 7,871 patients, representing 147,714 person-years of follow-up, ESRD developed in 103 individuals (1.3%). The mean time from the diagnosis of diabetes to the development of ESRD was 25.9 years (range 12.7–39.1). The cumulative incidence of ESRD was 0.7% (95% CI 0.4–1.0) at 20 years' diabetes duration, 2.9% (2.3–3.7) at 30 years' duration, and 5.3% (4.3–6.5) at 40 years' duration. The risk of the development of ESRD was lower in women than in men (hazard ratio [HR] 0.61; 95% CI 0.41–0.91) and higher in individuals in whom diabetes had been diagnosed at 10–14 years of age compared with those in whom it was diagnosed before 10 years of age (HR 1.29; 1.06–1.56). We did not identify any significant difference in the risk of the development of ESRD between those in whom diabetes was diagnosed in 1973–1982 and in 1989–2012 (HR 0.80; 0.45–1.45). CONCLUSIONS We report a very low incidence of ESRD among patients with childhood-onset diabetes in Norway. The risk was lower in women compared with men and in individuals in whom diabetes was diagnosed at a younger age.


This study documents the past ~7000 years of Holocene climatic history for Labrador and Nunatsiavut, using a sedimentary sequence of more than 8 m retrieved in Nachvak fjord, one of the northernmost fjords of Nunatsiavut. Using a multi-proxy approach combining a solid Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS)-14C chronology and the fossil assemblages of pollen grains and dinoflagellate cysts (dinocysts), we were able to compare terrestrial and marine records in an effort to obtain a better understanding of the mid- to late-Holocene climate history of the Nunatsiavut. Records begin at the end of the deglaciation and showed a general delay in the sequence of climate events which followed, both in terrestrial and marine realms. The presence of Pentapharsodinium dalei in great abundance in Nachvak Fjord revealed a strong influence of the North Atlantic Ocean and the Labrador Sea until ~3000 yr BP. Afterward, its rather fast disappearance marked the increased influence of Arctic waters. The last 1000 years show climate stability in the region over the marine realm and a cooling trend over terrestrial landscapes.


Inelastic scattering of electrons incident on a solid surface is determined by the two properties: (i) electronic response of the target system and (ii) the detailed quantum-mechanical motion of the projectile electron inside and in the vicinity of the target. We emphasize the equal importance of the second ingredient, pointing out the fundamental limitations of the conventionally used theoretical description of the electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) in terms of the ``energy-loss functions''. Our approach encompasses the dipole and impact scattering as specific cases, with the emphasis on the quantum-mechanical treatment of the probe electron. Applied to the high-resolution EELS of Ag surface, our theory largely agrees with recent experiments, while some instructive exceptions are rationalized.


The events of September 11, 2001 in the U.S.A have changed the perspective of owners and management companies towards security in office buildings. The initial reaction, which included general security measures with an unclear prevention role, is continuously being replaced by improved and more thorough decision-making process of prevention measures targeting specific types of threats. Currently, security mainly involves owners, their property managers and security consultants. This paper proposes the development of a city-wide Property Anti-terrorism Task Force, which will increase the cross-collaboration between real estate - law enforcement and emergency management agencies, allowing the enhancement of prevention measures against future attacks, strategically prepare property managers and mitigate future attacksi effects. The paper benefits substantially by office market data from Grubb & Ellis and survey results from the Building Owners & Managers Association of Chicago, a market with several corporate headquarters, high-rise and trophy buildings.


Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by multi-organ involvement and the production of autoantibodies directed against several nuclear proteins, among which the most specific are anti-Sm, anti-dsDNA and anti-ribosomal P protein (Rib-P) [1]. Yet anti-Rib-P is not part of the SLE classification criteria [2]. Objectives We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of anti-Rib-P in comparison to anti-Sm and anti-dsDNA antibodies in SLE patients and also to identify its association with clinical manifestations. Methods In a cross-sectional evaluation we included 127 SLE patients, 100 healthy controls and 256 rheumatic disease controls (100 Rheumatoid Arthritis, 99 Ankylosing Spondylitis, 34 Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and 23 Psoriatic Arthritis). We have used EliA™ Rib-P, EliA™ Sm and EliA™ DNA, from Phadia®, to simultaneously determine autoantibodies titers. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were performed and the cut-off values of positivity determined. The relationship between demographic parameters, clinical features, and the autoantibodies titers was assessed by univariable followed by multivariable linear regression analyses. Results The cut-off values of positivity were 4.45 U/ml, 3.4 U/ml and 15.0 U/ml for anti-Rib-P, anti-Sm and anti-dsDNA, respectively. Anti-Rib-P autoantibodies were positive in 14.2% of the SLE patients (mean concentration of 4.9±20.2 U/ml), in 0.8% of the rheumatic diseases control group (2 RA patients) and in none of the healthy controls. Anti-Sm antibodies were positive in 9.4% (mean concentration 2.8±13.8 U/ml) and anti-dsDNA autoantibodies in 49.6% of the SLE patients (mean concentration 44.6±73.8 U/ml). There was no positivity for anti-Sm in groups other than SLE, while anti-dsDNA was found in 6 (6%) healthy control subjects and in 5 (2%) patients with other rheumatic diseases. The tests performance was evaluated and the outcome was as follows (PPV – Positive Predictive Value; NPV – Negative Predictive Value): – Anti-Rib-P: sensitivity = 14.2%; specificity = 99.4%; PPV = 90.0%; NPV = 76.4% – Anti-Sm: sensitivity = 9.4%; specificity = 100%; PPV = 100%; NPV = 75.6% – Anti-dsDNA: sensitivity = 49.6%; specificity = 96.9%; PPV = 85.1%; NPV = 84.4% Among the 18 anti-Rib-P positive samples, 12 were also positive for anti-dsDNA, 2 were positive for the three autoantibodies, and 4 tested positively only for anti-Rib-P antibodies. In multivariable analysis Caucasian ethnicity was negatively associated with anti-Rib-P antibody titers (β=-0.190, p=0.034); serositis positively associated with anti-Sm titers; anti-dsDNA autoantibodies titers were related to a more active lupus (higher SLEDAI2K and renal involvement) and to shorter disease duration. No relationship was found between anti-Rib-P antibodies titers and neuropsychiatric manifestations as defined by SLE classification criteria. Conclusions Anti-Rib-P autoantibodies determination should be considered for inclusion in the SLE classification criteria as it is highly specific and has a good predictive diagnostic value. References Mahler M, Kessenbrock K, Szmyrka M, Takasaki Y, Garcia-De La Torre I, Shoenfeld Y et al.: International multicenter evaluation of autoantibodies to ribosomal P proteins. Clin Vaccine Immunol 2006, 13: 77-83. Toubi E, Shoenfeld Y: Clinical and biological aspects of anti-P-ribosomal protein autoantibodies [Review]. Autoimmun Rev 2007, 6: 119-125. Disclosure of Interest D. Carmona-Fernandes Grant/Research support from: Phadia, M. J. Santos Grant/Research support from: Phadia, J. E. Fonseca Grant/Research support from: Phadia


A laryngeal amyloid in a 45-year-old man was removed from the sinus of Morgagni via laryngofissure at the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department of the University of Teheran. Aspects of the amyloid are discussed with regard to the literature.


Soil Taxonomy differs from other international soil classification systems because it includes the estimation of the soil moisture regime (SMR) and is primarily based on the estimation of dry days in a soil moisture control section (SMCS). Alternatively, the International Committee on Soil Moisture and Temperature Regimes (ICOMMOTR) has proposed a new approach based on biweekly soil water potential values determined at a fixed depth. Currently, SMR estimation is performed through simple models (standard approaches), such as the Newhall and Billaux models, that are not physically based. The aims of this work were to test the appropriateness of both standard Soil Taxonomy and the ICOMMOTR approaches through the use of a hydrologic model based on the Richards equation (SWAP), and to evaluate possible SMR classification alternatives. The SWAP-derived SMR classifications were compared with those derived by standard approaches, as well as the ICOMMOTR proposals, under eight pedoclimatic conditions (southern and northern Italy) where the SWAP model was calibrated and validated. The standard approaches clearly overestimated the dry conditions in the SMCS. Being mainly climate based, however, they were able to separate different pedoclimatic settings. In contrast, the physically based approach showed realistic results in terms ofSMR estimation but did not differentiate pedoclimatic settings for either Soil Taxonomy or ICOMMOTR approaches. Three possible alternatives to SMR classification were investigated: (i) applying the ICOMMOTR classification approach supported by the use of hydrologic Richards-based models; (ii) changing the rules of Soil Taxonomy for classifying SMR and SMCS to better fit "real" soil hydrologic behavior; and (iii) continuing to apply Newhall and Billaux models but clearly clarifying their climate-driven criteria.


A totally new computational grammatical structure has been developed which encompasses the general class of self-organizing systems. It is based on a universal rewrite system and the principle of nilpotency, where a system and its environment have a space-time variation defined by the phase, which preserves the dual mirror-image relationship between the two. As briefly summarized in the paper, there is already substantial and hard evidence in favour of the application of this universal rewrite approach to quantum physics. Further applications in diverse fields suggest that, while the relationship between a self-organized system and its environment must be fully understood in quantum physical computational terms rather than digital ones, a new discrete approach to this quantum mechanical understanding can be described, which extends beyond the purely quantum range. It offers a new calculational means, within existing digital computational technology, to approach and validate the workings of self-organized systems, and may well encompass related but different computational methods used by other workers.


Phase holograms offer great potential e.g. for laser beam shaping and imaging applications. However, the generation of these structures typically requires multi-step processes which tend to be time-consuming and expensive, especially if high-quality structures are required. In this work we demonstrate a flexible and inexpensive method which allows for the production of binary phase-only holograms by laser ablation of ITO nanoparticle layers. Since these layers are ablated free of residues, accurately defined phase shifts can be achieved. While arbitrarily shaped structures can be generated, the ITO layer thickness can be adjusted in order to freely tune the phase shift for the desired wavelength. In the diffraction patterns generated by the holograms we observed an excellent zero order suppression.


Gene transcription is a highly stochastic and dynamic process. As a result, the mRNA copy number of a given gene is heterogeneous both between cells and across time. We present a framework to model gene transcription in populations of cells with time-varying (stochastic or deterministic) transcription and degradation rates. Such rates can be understood as upstream cellular drives representing the effect of different aspects of the cellular environment. We show that the full solution of the master equation contains two components: a model-specific, upstream effective drive, which encapsulates the effect of the cellular drives (e.g., entrainment, periodicity or promoter randomness), and a downstream transcriptional Poissonian part, which is common to all models. Our analytical framework allows us to treat cell-to-cell and dynamic variability consistently, unifying several approaches in the literature. We apply the obtained solution to characterize several gene transcription models of experimental relevance, and to explain the influence on gene transcription of synchrony, stationarity, ergodicity, as well as the effect of time-scales and other dynamic characteristics of drives. We also show how the solution can be applied to the analysis of single-cell data, and to reduce the computational cost of sampling solutions via stochastic simulation.


Sheared multi-component bulk metallic glasses are characterized by both chemical and structural disorder that define their properties. We investigate the behavior of the local, microstructural elastic modulus across the plastic yielding transition in six Ni-based multi-component glasses, that are characterized by compositional features commonly associated with solid solution formability. We find that elastic modulus fluctuations display consistent percolation characteristics pointing towards universal behavior across chemical compositions and overall yielding sharpness characteristics. Elastic heterogeneity grows upon shearing via the percolation of elastically soft clusters within an otherwise rigid amorphous matrix, confirming prior investigations in granular media and colloidal glasses. We find clear signatures of percolation transition with spanning clusters that are universally characterized by scale-free characteristics and critical scaling exponents. The spatial correlation length and mean cluster size tend to diverge prior to yielding, with associated critical exponents that exhibit fairly weak dependence on compositional variations as well as macroscopic stress-strain curve details.


Abstract An SMS/GOES 1 n mi visible image taken an 30 June 1975 reveals a massive area of atmospheric turbidity over the central and eastern United States. This was during the midpoint of a two-week air stagnation episode engulfing the Plains to the East Coast. It is shown that image "haziness" is correlated to midday surface visibility reports, which are in turn possibly correlated to sulfate aerosol concentrations. It appears that geosynchronous satellite data can play a major role in determining the areal extent of sulfate aerosol episodes.


The problem of controlling the blood glucose value of a patient suffering from type 1 diabetes is considered. The proposed strategy consists in designing a robust nonlinear model predictive controller based on a minimal nonlinear model. The various uncertainties and disturbances are introduced through the use of a variational model. The control problem is then expressed as a constrained game type minimax optimization problem. The choice of a final cost which ensures good stability properties are detailed. The performances of the controller are exemplified on a virtual testing platform showing its good properties.


In present era, automatic personal recognition is a serious problem that needs to be overcome properly. Palm print recognition is one of the most reliable and successful biometric solutions due to its numerous advantages such as stable line features, low resolution imaging, low cost capturing device, being non-intrusive and user friendly. In this article, performance comparisons of palm print recognition techniques based on subspace approaches (PCA, 2DPCA, 2D²PCA) have been presented. The experimental results are evaluated on three benchmark databases (CASIA, Cropped palm images and IIT Delhi) in terms of recognition rate and computation time. Keywords : Palm print recognition, PCA, 2DPCA, 2D²PCA Cite this Article Ravi Kumar Kanaujia, Amit Kaul, Ravinder Nath. Palm Print Recognition Based on PCA and its Variants. Current Trends in Signal Processing . 2015; 5(3): 7-14p.


SUMMARY Most patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma have good prognosis; however, recurrence rates and the need of salvage treatment remain a significant problem for 5-40% of patients. Although several risk classifications based on clinicopathological prognostic factors are used, it is not possible to predict which patients will have a higher risk of recurrence. The objective of the study is to analyse the impact of cytokeratin-19 and Ki-67 immunoexpression as predictive markers of the risk of recurrence in papillary thyroid carcinoma. This is a retrospective case-control study, including 42 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma and 42 controls. The groups were matched by gender, age and pathological staging T and N. Slides were made by the microarray tissue system. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify an independent risk factor for recurrence. Of the 42 selected cases, 30 patients (71.4%) were female and 12 (28.6%) were male, ranging in age from 10 to 80 years (median of 39 years). Most patients (64.3%) had tumors at initial T staging (T1-T2). Half of the sample was classified as low risk according to the American Thyroid Association (ATA) risk stratification. Follow-up time ranged from 46 to 196 months, with time to recurrence from 2 to 106 months (median, 30 months). CK-19 and Ki-67 immunoexpression had a statistically significant association with the risk of recurrence (p = 0.029 and p = 0.007, respectively). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, immunoexpression for these markers was an independent risk factor for locoregional recurrence (OR-9,64; CI-1.14-81.01 and OR-3,21; CI-1.32-7.94, respectively). The immunohistochemical analysis of the Ki-67 and CK-19 markers is useful to predict tumour recurrence in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma.


In this work a detailed analysis of the temporal evolution of the Almegijar landslide is presented. It is a rock slide located in the Alpujarras region (Granada, Spain) that has developed over the last 30 years. Six datasets and photogrammetric flights corresponding to the years 1956, 1984, 1992, 2001, 2008, and 2010 were surveyed. The more recent flight of 2010 combined an aerial digital camera and a LiDAR sensor and was oriented by means of in-flight data and tie points. This 2010 flight allowed for the generation of a reliable and high-precision Digital Terrain Model (DTM). The other flights were oriented using second-order ground control points transferred from the 2010 flight, and the corresponding DTMs were prepared by automatic matching and subsequent editing from the stereoscopic models. After comparing the DTMs of different dates, it has been observed that the landslide was triggered after 1984 and since then has evolved in an irregular pattern with periods of variable activity. On average, the ground surface dropped more than 8 m in depleted zones and rose nearly 4 m in the accumulation zones, with a velocity catalogued as very slow (about 15–30 cm/year) over a time span corresponding to a degree VIII of diachroneity. The total volume of the mobilized mass of this large contemporary slide was about 300 × 103 m3.


Effectiveness and safety of pharmacotherapy depends to a large extent on the choice of drugs. Due to necessity of reducing the cost of running the entire health system In many countries more and more generic drugs are being registered In order to make them more accessible to a greater number of patients. We often forget that the effectiveness and tolerance to treatment using different preparations of drugs containing the same active substance may not be the same. Therefore, the fundamental question arises In which groups of patients generic drugs can be used In place of brand-name drugs, which can also be very expensive, without the risk of making the treatment less effective and without increasing the risk of side effects occuring. (Forum Zaburzen Metabolicznych 2010, vol. 1, no 4, 241–247) key words: generic drugs, pharmacotherapy, adverse drug reactions


The problem of this research is there are so many people who use Honda Beat motorcycle in last one year. It is because the behavior of consumers who have high preference towards Honda Beat motorcycle compared to the other motorcycles. Preferences can be seen from the consumers' budget to buy a motorcycle and Honda Beat's product attributes. Subjects of this study are Honda Beat motorcycle users in Kelurahan Padasuka Bandung with 100 Honda Beat users as the samples. The method used in this research is an explanatory survey using questionnaire as data collection tool. Simple linear regression is used for the data analysis technique by applying Eviews 6 program. The research result shows that a budget variable has negative correlation and insignificant on preferences. This is because consumers have been helped by credit system so high and low budget does not affect the consumer to have a Honda Beat motorcycle. However, a product attributes variable have positive correlation and significant on preferences. This means that the higher quality of Honda Beat attributes affect the higher consumers' preferences on goods and services. In addition, Honda Beat motorcycle users are satisfied with the features, quality, reliability and service provided compared to the other motorcycles' attributes. Hence, product attributes will influence consumer preferences level to Honda Beat motorcycle.


This articlе is dеvоted to the vаriаtion in views оn the sрееch fоrms in the histоry of philоlоgy. Since the cоnstructiоn of stаtemеnts dеfinеd cоmmunicаtive tаsk of the spеаker's mеаning and the very stаtеment in this regаrd tаkes cеrtain fоrms, the study of cоntеxt as sаying the namе shоuld stаrt with the so -cаlled cоmpоsitesрееch fоrms (CSF). In accordance with the theory of philology such composite types of speech are description, narration and discourse. These universal speech forms can be represented in any type of speech. Description, narration and discourse as a type of speech patterns do not cover all the composite types as there is a dialogue mode of speech, review-informative activity, etc. However, description, narration and discourse according to philology are the main types of monologic speech which is characterized by the rhetoric laws. Description, narration and discourse develop compositional and stylistic forms of speech and are good material to find out the correlation between linguistic and rhetorical concepts. In the rhеtoric of compоsitionspеech fоrms are defined, firstly, as the mеthods of the text, that is, as the kinds of litеrature, and secоndly, as the cоnnecting betwеen thоught and spеech. This аttitude is thоught to sрeech and fоrms a sрecific compоsitional vоice as a fоrm of wоrd-syntаctic cоnstructions. On the other hand description, narration and discourse are the forms to realize the main idea in the word. Types and kinds of philology are developed from these main forms of rehabilitology activity. Composition-speech form is the link which combines facts of language and facts of speech.


Jean-Baptiste Greuze's diminutive picture of a rosy-cheeked girl wringing out her linen was one of fourteen works that he exhibited at the Salon of 1761 in Paris. This lively and engrossing book traces the history of the Getty Museum's painting, compares the work to other laundresses painted by Greuze, and explores social mores and the role of artists model in the eighteenth century. It provides an enlightening account of Greuze's life and times and the influences on his work.


Google's Google Books site is a rich resource that is probably underutilized by most educators. It has all kinds of potential for a) getting students into the research process in a way that they will enjoy (for example, they can see how a famous quote has been used/quoted, find out which books cite the journal article they are interested in, or check to see if a specific book covers a topic that they want to explore, etc.); b) teaching them about the deeper civic purpose and the evolving state of copyright law; and, c) exploring, with the help of Google Book's Ngram viewer, the promise and ethics surrounding the issue of data-mining and "non-consumptive" research, or research that is accomplished by "mining" books for data, as opposed to reading them.


This paper is intended to analyse some issues and phenomena related to the contemporary formation of the capitalist mode of production, now heavily dominated by information, or knowledge (and its new technologies). It challenges and rejects the simplistic and limited forms of analysis of the bourgeoisie to approach these phenomena where they call them: "globalization,""Knowledge Society," "Information Society," "Information Age." Instead, it intends to shed light on these phenomena based on concepts epistemologically more solid such as those based on Karl Marx's theories to the critique of capitalism. It analyses the capitalist Private Property concept behind Intellectual Property Rights (e.g. copyright, patents, and so on) which are the bourgeois legislations enforced worldwide to commodify public information or knowledge goods. It also analyses the scholarly and political movements against commodification of information under the banners of Free Software, Open Source, Copyleft, Commons, Information Commons, Free Information Movements, etc. And although it praises some of their positions intenting on fostering liberty and cooperation among its members, it challenges their limited theoretical approaches towards becoming alternatives to capitalism, and it criticises their intrinsic capitalist nature which fosters a lack of stable employment for workers of information/knowledge industries in the long run. Finally, it calls attention to the need to deepen the analysis of these new phenomena by understanding the internal logic of capitalist Private Property in order to draw more epistemologically adequate strategies to challenge it, or understand it better.


Background Caregivers may play a fundamental role in the clinical pathway of cancer patients. They provide emotional, informational, and functional support as well as practical assistance, and they might help mediate the interaction and communication with the oncologists when care options are discussed, or decisions are made. Little is known about the impact of dyadic dynamics on patient-doctor communication, patient's satisfaction, or adherence to the therapies. This study protocol aims to evaluate the efficacy of a psychological support intervention on patients-caregivers relationship and their alignment in the treatment decision-making (TDM) process and estimate related improvement in patient' compliance/adherence to treatments. Methods A total of 102 patients-caregivers' dyads will be involved, among breast and prostate cancer patients. The study entails a pre- post- evaluation through psychological questionnaires, with a randomization of participants in two conditions, the experimental one in which subjects participate in a psychological support consultation, and the control one, where dyads do not receive any intervention. A follow up after 6 months from the enrollment is planned. Discussion A positive impact of the psychological support intervention on patients' anxiety, depression, distress, and perceived social support is expected. Such improvements can directly affect patients' satisfaction and adherence to treatments. Data gathered from this study may inform health care providers, policy makers, and public health managers about the importance of caregiver's involvement in the cancer care pathway, and the best way to manage it. A further impact is to develop a specific intervention protocol to support caregivers' involvement in cancer care pathway, improve patient's wellbeing, the interaction with physicians and the compliance with the cancer treatment.


Backbone networks are evolving toward elastic optical network (EON) architecture that allows a flexible and efficient use of spectrum resources. Flexibility in EONs is also guaranteed by emerging sliceable bandwidth variable transponders (SBVTs) that support the simultaneous generation of multiple optical carriers. Such carriers can be used to serve different lightpaths (i.e., slice-ability), or can be merged into a single high-rate superchannel. SBVTs typically use a dedicated laser to generate each carrier, i.e., multilasers SBVT (ML-SBVT). Alternatively, a multiwavelength source can be used to generate multiple carriers using a single laser, i.e., multiwavelength SBVT (MW-SBVT). MW-SBVT improves the super-channel spectrum efficiency. Indeed, MW-SBVT reduces the intercarrier interference among the subcarriers composing the super-channel; thus, it is possible to reduce the guard bands among subcarriers. With ML-SBVT, each subcarrier suffers from unstableness of the related laser and intercarrier interference may have a huge impact, thus, higher guard bands are needed. On the other hand, the use of a MW-SBVT introduces specific constraints to the routing and spectrum assignment (RSA), because the spacing among the subcarriers is limited to a range of specific values. To take into account the constraints introduced by transponders, this paper integrates the selection of the transponder into RSA; thus, proposing a dynamic routing, spectrum, and transponder assignment (RSTA) scheme supporting both ML-SBVT and MW-SBVT technologies, and aiming to combine the benefits of the two technologies. Simulation results show that the proposed RSTA scheme provides benefits in terms of achieved blocking probability compared to the traditional RSA schemes. Moreover, the achieved results demonstrate that jointly using both SBVT technologies provides significant benefits with respect to the utilization of any single SBVT technology.


This study examined the effects of prolonged (4 days) high frequency stimulation (HFS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN), in comparison with those of STN lesion, on the dopamine denervation‐mediated cellular changes in the basal ganglia in a Wistar rat model of Parkinson's disease. STN HFS counteracted the dopamine lesion‐induced increase in GAD67 mRNA expression in the output structures of the basal ganglia, as shown previously after STN lesion, providing cellular support for the similar antiparkinsonian benefits produced by the two surgical procedures. The dopamine denervation‐induced increase in GAD67 mRNA levels in the globus pallidus was partially antagonized after HFS and totally reversed after ibotenate‐induced STN lesion. The overexpression of striatal enkephalin mRNA tended to be further increased by HFS but was antagonized by STN lesion. The decrease in striatal substance P mRNA levels was affected neither by STN HFS nor lesion. As STN HFS for two hours was previously found not to interfere with the effects of dopamine lesion in the globus pallidus and striatum, the present data provide strong evidence that the effects of STN surgery in these structures involve long‐term adaptive processes and that the rearrangements mediated by HFS and lesion are, at least in part, different.


The study aims to describe the development of the students' writing skill through the implementation of Guided Composition Technique (GCT) learning approach. This research is a Classroom Action Research consisting of three cycles. The subject of this research was 31 eighth grade students of SMPN 1 Borobudur of the academic year 2013/2014. The data were collected from the result of group task, observation, analysis of students' work and interview. The obtained data were analyzed qualitatively in three steps of data reduction, data display and conclusion drawing. The results that there were many problems faced by the students in developing their writing skill which can be classified into five aspects: grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, organization and content. The implementation of GCT learning technique could develop their writing skill. It was found that the average score gained by the students using guided words or phrases constructions was 70.06, guided questions was 75.90, and guided picture was 76.26.The guided picture was the favourite one. On the students' motivation in learning English, there was improvement from cycle to cycle. In the first cycle there were 63.55% students having good motivation. Whereas the second and third cycle, there were 74.52% and 90% students getting good motivation. Between 250-300 words; must focus on: aims of the study, methods, findings, conclusions, and implications.


Objectives To examine the role of locus of control and the phenomenon of alexithymia in the formation of psychosomatic personality traits in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients. Methods The group studied, comprised of 27 patients suffering from AS. The selection of patients for the study was conducted in accordance with the recommendations of the group of experts working on AS (ASAS, 2003). The patients were of an average age - 44, 94±13, 8 years and had an average duration of the disease - 3, 02 ± 3, 69 years. The main contingent of patients with AS was represented by males (89%). A study of locus of control was conducted by the method of "level of subjective control" (Bazhin E. F., et al. 1987). The study of alexithymia was conducted using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS) (G. J. Taylor et al., 1985). Results The study of locus of control in patients with AS showed a significant trend towards external locus of control in common sphere (3,81+1,387), as well as on the scale of failures (3,51+0,64), family relations (4,18+0,55), professional relations (2,74+0.98) and in relation to health (4,66+1,94). Trends towards internal locus of control were observed in the sphere of interpersonal interaction and achievements (5, 14+0, 71 and 5.0+1, 24 respectively). Correlation between the levels of locus of control with other clinical and psychological characteristics, such as age, activity, duration of disease and the level of neurotic disorders in patients has not been established. A high level of alexithymia (77, 35±1.8 points) was also recorded in patients with AS. The level of alexithymia as such, did not depend on sex, age, character of duration and activity of the pathological process, but was inversely correlated with the level of education of the patients (r=-0.37 with p=0,028) and internality in relation to the disease (r=-0,64, p=0.031). Conclusions Thus, a certain correlation is formed between the development of the alexithymia phenomenon and some clinical and psychological characteristics in AS patients. This correlation is usually causal in nature, the understanding of which has implications for the organization of preventive measures, aimed at correction of alexithymia traits. Characteristics of locus of control in patients with AS can largely be predetermined by the peculiarities in the formation of personal relationships and the choice of certain strategies. These changes may hinder the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions and need for psychological adjustment in time. Disclosure of Interest None declared


Microsporidia Encephalitozoon cuniculi, obligate intracellular sporeforming protozoan parasite infecting a wide range of vertebrate and invertebrate host, has been described as opportunistic pathogen in severely immunocompromised human host. An antibody immune response to the presence of antibodies against Encephalitozoon cuniculi was investigated serologically using indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). Of the total number of 113 sera from immunologically compromised patients examined, 5 were positive at the titre 1:32, 5 at the titre 1:64, and 6 at the titre 1:256. From total number of positive respondent patients were 12 children and 4 adults.


This thesis examines vengeance as a concept and as a practice in late Anglo-Saxon and Anglo-Norman society, specifically in relation to the interplay between theological thought and social attitudes and practices. It brings together a wide variety of sources in which vengefulness and the pursuit of vengeance are prominent themes. These include homilies and theological treatises, narrative histories and chronicles, hagiographies and miracle collections, vernacular poetry, and documentary sources such as law codes.
Much attention has been devoted to the prevalence and mechanisms of feud in medieval society, but in this body of source material, acts of vengeance were just as likely to come from heaven as they were to be inflicted by humans on each other. This thesis examines the theological concept of divine vengeance, the ways that God's vengeance was observed and experienced in the world in historical events and in the form of vengeance miracles, and the extent to which religious considerations affected the perceived morality of vengeance undertaken by humans. Vengeance emerges as a complex theological, moral and social issue in a society in which levels of religious understanding, engagement and belief varied greatly between different groups and individuals.
This thesis argues that the idea of divine vengeance was consistently used as a rhetorical tool to support certain moral standpoints, and that the interpretation of any event as divine vengeance was never inevitable. God's right to take vengeance for sin was an integral part of the way that the relationship between heaven and earth was negotiated, the way that events on earth were interpreted and understood, and the way that the morality of human action was thought about. There was significant religious, cultural and institutional continuity in these respects in English society between the tenth and twelfth centuries. Changes were gradual and should largely be credited to wider European developments rather than the direct impact of the Norman Conquest.


Hypertriacylglycerolaemia is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In men, we have shown that the effects of evening exercise on basal VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) metabolism are dose-dependent: a single prolonged bout of aerobic exercise [2 h at 60% of VO(2 peak) (peak oxygen consumption)] reduces fasting plasma TAG [triacylglycerol (triglyceride)] concentrations, via enhanced clearance of VLDL-TAG from the circulation, whereas the same exercise performed for 1 h has no effect on VLDL-TAG metabolism and concentration. We hypothesized that women are more sensitive to the TAG-lowering effect of exercise because they reportedly use more intramuscular TAG as an energy source during exercise, and depletion of muscle TAG stores has been linked to reciprocal changes in skeletal muscle LPL (lipoprotein lipase) activity. To test our hypothesis, we measured basal VLDL-TAG and VLDL-apoB-100 (apolipoprotein B-100), and plasma NEFA [non-esterified fatty acid ('free fatty acid')] kinetics, by using stable isotope-labelled tracer techniques, on the morning after a single session of evening exercise of moderate duration and intensity (1 h at 60% of VO(2 peak)) in eight sedentary pre-menopausal women (age, 28+/-3 years; body mass index, 27+/-2 kg/m(2); body fat, 34+/-3%; values are means+/-S.E.M.). Compared with an equivalent period of evening rest, exercise had no effect on post-absorptive NEFA concentrations and the rate of appearance in plasma, VLDL-TAG and VLDL-apoB-100 concentrations, hepatic VLDL-TAG and VLDL-apoB-100 secretion and plasma clearance rates (all P>0.05). We conclude that, in women, as in men, a single session of exercise of moderate intensity and duration is not sufficient to bring about the alterations in VLDL metabolism that have been linked to post-exercise hypotriacylglycerolaemia.


The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of black gram husk (BGH) to remove Cr, Pb, As and Co from water. The batch experiments were conducted employing dilute solutions of above metals to achieve the goal. The parameters such as agitation speed, agitation time, biomass dosage, metal concentration, pH and temperature were optimized in order to investigate the maximum removal capacity of biomass for the toxic metals.Results revealed that maximum sorption capacity of BGH for lead (Pb), chromium (Cr) and cobalt (Co) at pH 2 is 99.45%, 99.52% and 98.73% respectively. At pH 4 the removal of arsenic is 92.06%. The optimum metal concentration for lead and arsenic is 100 ppm while for chromium and cobalt is 50 ppm. The biomass dosage at optimum temperature for the lead, chromium, arsenic and cobalt is 0.05 g at 10◦C, 1.5 g at 5 ◦C, 7.0 g at 25 ◦C and 1.0 g at 25 ◦C respectively. The optimum agitation speed and agitation time for the lead, chromium, arsenic and cobalt is 75 rpm at 25 min., 125 rpm at 210 min., 100 rpm at 10 min and 125 rpm at 120.In view of around 99% removal capacity of BGH suggested as a very efficient biosorbent for the removal of toxic metals.


ABSTRACT This paper investigates the bionomics of the cleptoparasitic bee Mesoplia sapphirina Melo and Rocha-Filho, sp. nov. (described in the appendix), and of its ground-nesting host Centris flavofasciata Friese found along the Pacific coast of Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica. We explore the host-nest searching behavior, egg deposition, and hospicidal behavior of M. sapphirina. Anatomical accounts of its egg, first, second, and fifth larval instars are presented and compared with published descriptions of other ericrocidine taxa. Nests of the host bee as well as its egg and method of eclosion are also described.


This paper investigates the application of centralized multi-sensor data fusion (CMSDF) technique to enhance the process fault detection. The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is used to estimate the process faults of the simulated high-update rate Wheel Mobile Robot (WMR) benchmark. Currently there exist two commonly used centralized multi-sensor data fusion methods for Kalman filter including centralized measurement fusion and centralized state-vector fusion. The measurement fusion methods directly fuse observations or sensor measurements to obtain a weighted or combined measurement and then use a single Kalman filter to obtain the final state estimate based upon the fused measurement. Whereas state-vector fusion methods use a group of local Kalman filters to obtain individual sensor based state estimates which are then fused to obtain an improved joint state estimate. The simulation results are shown for single, double, triple and quadruple faults detection and diagnosis.


Allergy to Chromium, Nickel, Cobalt and Titanium with Trauma-Orthopedics Patients The problems concerning re-operations after joint implantation, as well as the occurrence of postoperation complications with trauma-orthopedics patients, who were given metal implants are constantly considered from medical and economical point of view. The most frequent reason for the re-operation is so called: aseptic loosening arthroplasty. The article presents the analysis of various clinical postoperation complications after the long-bone treatment by means of osteosynthesis with the use of metal implants and hip arthroplasty.


Abstract : Several of the current methods for density estimation of cetaceans using passive fixed acoustics rely on large, dense arrays of cabled hydrophones and/or auxiliary information from animal tagging projects conducted at the same time as the acoustic survey. Obtaining such data is costly, and may be impractical to the wider community interested in estimating cetacean density. Therefore, the goal of Cheap DECAF is to focus on the development of cetacean density estimation methods using sensors that are sparsely distributed and less expensive to deploy than the cabled military arrays focussed on to date.


Abstract. This study aims to enhance our understanding of the bora-driven dense-water
dynamics in the Adriatic Sea using different state-of-the-art modelling
approaches during the 2014–2015 period. Practically, we analyse and compare
the results of the following four different simulations: the latest reanalysis product for
the Mediterranean Sea, a recently evaluated fine-resolution atmosphere–ocean
Adriatic Sea climate model, and a long-time-running Adriatic Sea
atmosphere–ocean forecast model used in both hindcast and data assimilation
(with 4 d cycles) modes. As a first step, we evaluate the resolved physics
in each simulation by focusing on the performance of the models. Then, we
derive the general conditions in the ocean and the atmosphere during the
investigated period. Finally, we analyse in detail the numerical
reproduction of the dense-water dynamics as seen by the four simulations.
The likely prerequisites for proper modelling of the ocean circulation in
the Adriatic basin, including a kilometre-scale atmosphere–ocean approach,
non-hydrostatic atmospheric models, fine vertical resolutions in both
atmosphere and ocean, and the location and forcing of the open boundary
conditions, are thus discussed in the context of the different simulations.
In conclusion, a 31-year-long run of the fine-resolution Adriatic Sea
climate model is found to be able to outperform most aspects of the
reanalysis product, the short-term hindcast, and the data-assimilated
simulation in reproducing the dense-water dynamics in the Adriatic Sea.


Dissolution rate of minerals may differ from climates configuration, but weathering rate of feldspars is generally proved to be relatively higher The result of geochemical reaction modeling indicates the acid water of pH 4.5 excluding any other variables, was 2.3 times higher than that in ordinary rain of pH 5.7. This result proved that pH is very important factor in preservation of granite cultural properties. To prevent the weathering of stone cultural properties, weathering characteristics of stones should be studied first and constitution of dry environments, using water repellent or oil coating, isolating water which cause chemical weathering reaction like hydration and oxidization should be considered. Considering the long-term reactions between granite and rain, selection of materials, which can bring neutralization and non-oxidization conditions, are very important in using cleaning agents and biological controls.


This paper will argue that the level of employee trust in management, will be a significant factor in determining the willingness, or otherwise, of an employee to engage in discretionary and positive, extra-role behaviour. Discretionary extra-role behaviour being defined as behaviour which aims to assist the organisation to achieve its goals and which is over and above the behaviour which is demanded by the terms of the employment contract. This paper will identify three significant indicators of trust in management, which in turn are likely to influence the level of discretionary effort. This paper contends that perceptions by employees of their level of trust in management, is a critical factor in their behaviour and argues that individuals independently, subjectively and interpretively, form their own perceptions about the culture, or work environment, and continually reassess and act on their feelings.


Objective. To optimize a pelvic and lower abdominal cavity MRI protocol in the diagnosis of chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women.Material and methods. A total of 57 reproductive-aged women with complaints of CPP were examined. The first stage of all patients after clinical and laboratory examination for clinical indications was performed ultrasound of the pelvis and abdominal cavity with dopplerometry. In the second stage, all the patients underwent an MRI using the standard Protocol, and then a modified Protocol. The final diagnosis was based on the results of a comprehensive examination, which included a clinical and neurological examination, gynecological examination, pelvic and abdominal ultrasound, radiography of the ileosacral joints and lumbosacral spine, fibrocolonoscopy and laparoscopy with morphological examination of the operating material (according to indications).Results. Forty-six (81%) patients were found to have gynecological factors for the development of CPP; 16 (28%) had extragenital factors. The examination results were verified by the data of surgical intervention (n = 16 (28%)), hysteroscopy (n = 21 (37%)), and laparoscopy (n = 9 (16%)) with morphological examination of biopsy specimens or surgical material.Comparing with the standard pelvic MR protocol provided evidence for the high diagnostic value of the modified protocol statistically significantly (p < 0.05): 99.2% sensitivity and 99.6% specificity.Conclusion. The developed non-contrast 1.5T MRI protocol for the pelvis permits MR images of the pelvis and adjacent anatomical areas to be obtained during one study without increasing time expenditures and upgrading equipment and software. The use of the protocol makes it possible to improve the quality of radiation diagnosis of gynecological and extragenital diseases in CPP and to recommend that the protocol in combination with other clinical and instrumental studies be introduced in clinical practice.


The phenomenon of urban sprawl has received much attention. Accurately confirming the spatial expansion degree of urban sprawl (SEDUS) is a prerequisite to controlling urban sprawl. However, there is no reliable metric to accurately measure SEDUS. In this paper, based on binary entropy, we propose a new index named the spatial expansion degree index (SEDI), to overcome this difficulty. The study shows that the new index can accurately determine SEDUS and, compared with other commonly used measures, the new index has an obvious advantage in measuring SEDUS. The new index belongs to the second-order metrics of point pattern analysis, and greatly extends the concept of entropy. The new index can also be applied to other spatial differentiation research from a broader perspective. Although the new index is influenced by the scaling problem, because of small differences between different scales, given that the partition scheme in the research process is the same, the new index is a quite robust method for measuring SEDUS.


A sterically encumbered [N(2)S(6)] macropentacycle (5) related to diazamacrobicycles and cryptands has been synthesized in 53% yield by the [1+1] condensation reaction between functionalized macrocyclic and macrotricyclic precursors. A macrononacycle (18) resulting from the corresponding [2+2] condensation was isolated in 7% yield from the reaction mixture. Both compounds showed broad features in their room-temperature (1)H NMR spectra, but their maximal average symmetry (D(3h) and D(2h), respectively) was achieved at high temperature (380 K). At low temperature (200 K, CD(2)Cl(2) solution), the macropentacycle is "frozen" to a single asymmetric (C1) conformation on the (1)H NMR time scale, which has also the molecular structure observed in the solid state by X-ray crystallography: pseudo-triple helical ( not equalC(3)) shape, io (in, out) form resulting from the endo/exo configuration at the nitrogen bridgehead atoms, and similar orientations of the tosyl substituents. The solution dynamics of the molecule can be described by coupled bridgehead nitrogen inversion, triple helix symmetrization, and reversal of triple helix handedness, with DeltaGc = 54.2 kJ mol(-1) in CD(2)Cl(2) at 300 K. Adoption of the io form by macropentacycle 5 in the crystal and in solution at low-temperature most probably results from the steric crowding and strain introduced by the [15]ane-N(2)S(2) macrocyclic bridging subunits.


A high pressure liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method has been developed for determining ochratoxin A and zearalenone in cereals. The sample is extracted with phosphoric acid and chloroform. The extract is cleaned by washing on a silica gel column with cyclohexane-ethylene dichloride-ethyl ether. After eluting zearalenone with chloroform, ochratoxin A is eluted with chloroform-formic acid. Zearalenone is extracted into alkaline solution, washed with chloroform, the pH is adjusted, and the zearalenone is extracted back into chloroform. Ochratoxin A is purified by chromatography on aqueous sodium biarbonate-Celite. The mycotoxins are determined by using a liquid chromatograph with 2 columns in series packed with Spherisorb ODS 10 micrometer and 5 micrometers, respectively. Ochratoxin A is detected with a speftrophotofluorometer, coupled in series with an ultra-violet detector for estimation of zearalenone. Detection limits are 1-5 micrograms/kg for ochratoxin A and 2 micrograms/kg for zearalenone.


This article discusses the particularity of the theological project of Edir Macedo, leader of The Universal Church of the Kingdom of God. The authors propose that this group operates according to an institutional and social regulatory model that is highly seductive in neoliberal societies with large informal economies. The church presents a moral discourse that refutes 'narcissistic' and 'corrupt individualism,' and offers as an alternative rituals that promote sacrificial entrepreneurs who are disciplined and dedicated to family. It is also expected that the elite of the Universal Church provides access to 'social goods' for the vast number of churchgoers. In these ways the authoritarian nature of the church is supported through an expectative of tutelage. Drawing on data from Brazil, Portugal, and Angola, the authors also discuss the relationship between an ideal of social responsibility, the regional political cultures and the maintenance of hierarchical and authoritarian pastoral power at the Universal Church.


Hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis syndrome (HUVS) is an uncommon small-vessel vasculitis presenting as a chronic urticaria with hypocomplementemia and the presence of anti-C1q autoantibodies. In most patients it is accompanied by a wide variety of extracutaneous manifestations such as arthritis, glomerulonephritis, ocular inflammation and pulmonary disease. We present a case of 49-year-old male with a 3-year history of recurrent urticaria accompanied by arthralgia, myalgia and gastrointestinal symptoms. The additional laboratory assessments revealed the presence of circulating anti-C1q autoantibodies in high titer. Histology of the lesional skin biopsy was consistent with leukocytoclastic vasculitis. The diagnosis of HUVS was confirmed in accordance to the currently adopted criteria. The described case emphasizes the necessity of high clinical suspicion when caring for patients with chronic urticaria and concomitant systemic symptoms.


Video signatures are compact representations of video sequences designed for efficient similarity measurement. In this paper, we propose a feature extraction technique to support fast similarity search on large databases of video signatures. Our proposed technique transforms the high dimensional video signatures into low dimensional vectors where similarity search can be efficiently performed. We exploit both the upper and lower bounds of the triangle inequalities in approximating the high-dimensional metric, and combine this approximation with the classical PCA to achieve the target dimension. Experimental results on a large set of Web video sequences show that our technique outperforms fastmap, Haar wavelet, PCA, and triangle-inequality pruning.


In the present work, a type of PU film was made from peroxy-acid-derived wheat straw lignin by reacting varying amounts of lignin ranging from 10 to 50 wt% (with respect to PEG), polyethylene glycol (Mn = 1000), and tolylene 2,4-diisocyanate without catalyst. The effects of lignin content on the tensile property and thermostability of the lignin polyurethane films obtained were investigated. The thermal conductivity of lignin polyurethane films was also studied. Results showed that when the lignin content increased, the glass transition temperature (Tg) and tensile strength of the lignin polyurethane film increased, but the onset decomposition temperature and elongation at break decreased. When the lignin content was 40 wt%, the lignin polyurethane film had the best overall properties. In addition, compared with PU films, lignin PU films showed better heat-insulating properties.


A switchbox router utilizing layers is presented. Each net is first partitioned into a set of subnets. This decomposition is driven by the minimum Steiner tree. The construction is then carried out on a step-by-step basis, which allows the system to dynamically take new information on the problem into account. The information is examined by a set of expert systems which decide which subnet should be routed next. This part has been implemented with a blackboard architecture. The router can handle pins that are not on a grid on one set of parallel edges. The program has been implemented in the LISP programming language. Many test cases have been run successfully, and some results, including Burstein's difficult switchbox, are presented. >


In the last few decades, researchers have identified many systematic errors – cognitive biases – in the human mind. The predominant notion of human beings as rational have gradually been flawed, in one context after another. In the last few years scholars have approached the question of what policy implications should be derived from these findings and what solutions there might be. Three main philosophic lines have been argued for: soft paternalism, coercive (hard) paternalism and skeptical libertarians. The theoretical framework of this paper is composed of case relevant cognitive biases together with suggested debiasing strategies. The main aim of this study is to bridge the gap between theory and practice. By analyzing mainly official documents in three cases – the UK, the US and the EU – of in-practice use of, both a case specific and an aggregated picture are presented. Questions of why and how government administrations have chosen to work with behavioral insights are in focus. The results show that a soft paternalist approach is the preferred strategy, but more coercive elements are also used. The identified ways to tackle cognitive biases in practice can be concluded in the use of default options, simplification and smart disclosure.


Introduction: Nurses are known to be at the frontline of risks and victims to occupational hazards within the healthcare system. These hazards include exposure to infections that may arise from injuries from sharps and contacts with body fluids. Standard precautions are taken to mitigate and minimize hazards in hospitals. This study assessed the factors influencing standard precaution practices among Nurses in Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria. Method and material: This study involved a descriptive cross-sectional study which was carried out among 305 nurses in Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja. A self-structured instrument was employed for this study and data were gathered from consented respondents. The data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 25. The research questions were answered using descriptive statistics of mean, frequency and percentage. Results: The mean age of the respondents was 41.64±10.1 years and many (68.5%) had more than 10 years of work experience. The respondents had above average level of knowledge (24.69±2.16) and close to two-third (59.7%) had a positive attitude towards standard precaution practices. The most reported factors influencing the practice of standard precautions were non-availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) (92.1%), lack of regular training on standard precautions (91.1%) and lack of good policy on standard precautions (81.5%). Conclusion: Majority of the respondents had above average level of knowledge and positive attitude towards standard precaution. There is a need for continued sensitization and monitoring of standard precaution practices by nurses to sustain the high level. Also, healthcare institutions should ensure the availability of PPE for standard precautions and regular in-service training of nurses on standard precaution practices.


【Objective : Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction characterized by sneezing, coughing, itchy nose, mouth and throat, congestion and/or nasal discharge. We aim to observe effect of Sinichengpae-um on protective effects of nasal mucosal tissue in th allergic rhinitis. Method : For this purpose, we oberserved number of leukocyte and erythrocyte in blood, ratio of neutrophil and lymphocyte in leukocyte, activity of GOT and GPT, and histopathologic change of nasal mucose. Result and Conclusion : Sinicheogpae-um showed effects on immune reaction with no harms liver. And in histopathologic change of nasal mucosal tissue, Sinichengpae-um showed significant protective effet against allergic rhinitis.】


With the growing importance of personal identification and authentication in todays highly advanced world where most business and personal tasks are being replaced by electronic means, the need for a technology that is able to uniquely identify an individual and has high fraud resistance see the rise of biometric technologies. Making biometric based solution mobile is a promising trend. A new RST invariant square based palm print ROI extraction method was successfully implemented and integrated into the current application suite. A new set of palm print image database captured using embedded cameras in mobile phone was created to test its robustness. Comparing to those extraction methods that are based on boundary tracking of the overall hand shape that has limitation of being unable to process palm print images that has one or more fingers closed, the system can now effectively handle the segmentation of palm print images with varying finger positioning. The high flexibility makes palm print matching mobile possible.


Abstract We used DNA sequences from several mitochondrial regions (ND2, ND4, and adjacent tRNAs) to examine genetic structure and divergence among populations of the Striped Plateau Lizard, Sceloporus virgatus. In the northern portion of this species' range, populations occupy mesic habitats at higher elevations in the mountain ranges of the Madrean Archipelago, and are thus isolated by dry, inhospitable valleys. High genetic differentiation among four of these ranges, and low genetic variation within ranges, imply that gene flow among them has been limited and isolation is ancient, having occurred hundreds of thousands or even millions of years ago. These results conflict with expectations derived from geographical and paleontological data that indicate ecological conditions favoring gene flow occurred as recently as 11,000 years ago.


PurposeThe destruction of armed confrontations – ranging from chronic armed conflicts to full-scale wars – leads to enormous loss of human lives and causes wide-scale devastation. They also leave deep and lasting traumas in the minds of those whose lives are torn apart because of a conflict. Memorialisation of conflict-affected sites plays an invaluable part in post-trauma recovery and can contribute to the reconciliation of different groups involved in a conflict as these sites are representatives of communities' collective memory, identity and a source of unity and resilience. This paper aims to investigate post-trauma recovery and reconciliation processes through the phenomena of memorialisation. It aims to answer how and if the memorialisation of sites of pain can contribute to the recovery and reconciliation of affected communities and serve as examples for other people around the world.Design/methodology/approachThe documentation of such processes and the lessons learnt can offer valuable information for conducting similar exercises in other settings ravaged by a conflict. To achieve this, a review of literature on trauma, memory, memorialisation and difficult heritage was conducted, while the memorialisation processes from different cases such as Hiroshima and Nagasaki (1939–1945), Beirut (1975–1990) and Sarajevo's Vijecnica and Mostar Bridge (1992–1995) were analysed.FindingsIt was identified that the potential of memorialisation for post-trauma recovery and reconciliation is vast. However, if these processes can "heal" or "hurt" depend largely on who the stakeholders are; how the site and events are interpreted and presented; how pre/post-conflict relationships and dynamics are harnessed; how symbolic meanings (old and new) are [re]interpreted; the spatial-temporal nature of the site and those interacting with it; and the intended and perceived messages. Altogether, memorialisation of conflict-affected sites is a political and continuous process that should take into consideration all those directly and indirectly involved, the dynamics between them and all the symbolic meanings acquired and attributed to the site.Originality/valueThe study critically explores frameworks of memorialisation and their impact on both the built environment and communities. It contributes to the wider discussion of difficult heritage memorialisation and approaches to reflect on sites and cities emerging from crises such as conflict.


A new method of phase spectral analysis of EEG is proposed for the comparative analysis of phase spectra between normal EEG and epileptic EEG signals based on the wavelet decomposition technique. By using multiscale wavelet decomposition, the original EEGs are mapped to an orthogonal wavelet space, such that the variations of phase can be observed at multiscale. It is found that the phase (and phase difference) spectra of normal EEGs are distinct from that of epileptic EEGs. That is the variations of phase (and phase difference) of normal EEGs have a distinct periodic pattern with the electrical activity proceeds in the brain, but do not the epileptic EEGs. For epileptic EEGs, only at those transient points, the phase variations are obvious. In order to verify these results with the observational data, the phase variations of EEGs in principal component space are observed and found that, the features of phase spectra is in correspondence with that the wavelet space. These results make it possible to view the behavior of EEG rhythms as a dynamic spectrum.


Variational principles are developed within the framework of a spinor representation of the surface geometry to examine the equilibrium properties of a membrane or interface. This is a far-reaching generalization of the Weierstrass-Enneper representation for minimal surfaces, introduced by mathematicians in the 1990s, permitting the relaxation of the vanishing mean curvature constraint. In this representation the surface geometry is described by a spinor field, satisfying a two-dimensional Dirac equation, coupled through a potential associated with the mean curvature. As an application, the mesoscopic model for a fluid membrane as a surface described by the Canham-Helfrich energy quadratic in the mean curvature is examined. An explicit construction is provided of the conserved complex-valued stress tensor characterizing this surface.


A study was conducted at the Department of Pathology, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur into the histological type (WHO classification), grade (modified Edmondson and Steiner's grading system), mitotic rate, bile production, hyaline globule and Mallory hyaline formation of 52 cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnosed during a 13-year period between 1st January 1990 to 31st December 2002. In addition, associated cirrhosis, dysplasia (large liver cell dysplasia: LLCD and small liver cell dysplasia: SLCD) and microvascular permeation were also looked for whenever the situation permitted. The patients' ages ranged from 21-years to 85-years (mean = 58.7 years) with a predilection for males and Chinese. Histologically, majority (73.1%) of the tumours demonstrated a trabecular pattern of growth. The bulk (73%) of the tumours were either of grade II or III differentiation. Mitotic activity ranged between 0-100/10 high power fields (hpf) with a mean of 22.2/10 hpf. Bile was noted in 25%, hyaline globules 17.3% and Mallory bodies in one case. Concomitant cirrhosis was present in 73.5%. 73.5% of the cases had associated LLCD. 5 with LLCD also showed SLCD. Microvascular permeation was shown in 76.2% of cases. On comparison with findings from other studies, no major difference seems to exist between the histological characteristics of our HCC cases and that of other populations.


This theoretical paper aims to explore the concept of the humanistic approach in the field of teacher education. Humanistic education is concerned with the study of learners' emotions, knowledge, and experiences involved in their learning process. According to this approach, students should be viewed as "humans," not as "machines" as they are the most crucial part of the education system. The curriculum and syllabus should focus on the students' interests, needs, and overall learning circumstances. In humanistic teaching, students are perceived as active beings, not "robots" who are supposed to follow the teacher's orders without any justification or challenge. Teachers' roles in humanistic education are to cater support to the students considering several learner factors and guiding them to reach the highest point of autonomous learning. Therefore, the humanistic approach needs to be adapted in the academic field for ensuring practical learning and mutual respect between teachers and students. The paper is organized into three sections. First, it explores the origin and evolution of the humanistic movement in education. Secondly, a detailed account of the basic principles and teacher roles in humanistic education is provided. Finally, the paper discusses its implications in ELT and existing complications regarding this approach.


To the Editor:— Neither Dr. Ernst Gellhorn's original article nor Dr. Friedman's communication add much light to the seeming puzzle of the action of insulin on the nervous system in schizophrenia. Their confusion arises from the indiscriminate massing of chemical and physical evidence with what Dr. Kettering would call too much meaningless scientific verbiage. The faculties of the mind are discernible only through biochemical reactions expressed or observed in terms of physical activity or inaction. Consequently the psyche—from the standpoint of natural science—is eluctable only through an understanding of its dependent physical phenomena—electrical, chemical, physical—which are subject to equivalent translation, since they are merely aspects of a unitary process. Brain wave recordings, lie detections, chronaxias, electrocardiograms are the electrical "shadows," as heat and size (growth, decay, atrophy) are the physical reflection of matter—organic and inorganic chemicals—ionized and in motion in solution. Physiologic activity is accompanied by the production of organic


Abstract : The original objectives of this project are two-fold. One objective is to develop textured templates for growth of epitaxial thin film ferroelectric (TFFE) IR detectors on polyimide coated Si. The commercial TFFE has a polycrystalline structure since it is directly grown on non-textured polyimide coating. This results in degraded device performance. The same problem also occurs widely to many other device applications. To achieve epitaxial growth of the devices on non-textured surface, an ultra-thin textured template, with high transparency to infrared photons in the infrared detector applications, must be developed on non-textured surface. To resolve this issue, we have developed a unique approach in this project to generate ultra-thin textured MgO buffers on amorphous substrates using ITEX technique (stand for ion beam texturing). This topic has been the main focus of this project and many exciting results have been obtained. The other topic is to improve the performance of Hg-Cd-Te by engineering substrate surface at nano-scales aiming at reducing the defect densities such as dislocations in the device. The main approach is to prepare surfaces that have alternating areas of perfect lattice match area 1 or no match (amorphous, for example) area 2 to Hg-Cd-Te. Each area has a dimension on the order of few tens of nanometers. It is anticipated that Hg-Cd-Te will only nucleate in area 1, not area 2. If the Hg-Cd-Te domains grown in area 1 can overlay on the area 2, the strain induced from lattice mismatch between substrate and Hg-Cd-Te layer may be minimized. We have successfully achieved the surface nanoengineering using electron-beam lithography (EBL). The dimension of the engineered surface area is, however, small typically on the order of few hundred micrometers. This topic was not pursued after one year experiment, due to limitation of characterization capability on small sample spot on our ARL collaborator side.


The past twenty years have seen dramatic changes in the nature, availability, and use of information and communication technologies (ICTs), spawning some vigorous research in marketing. Most articles examine the impact of new ICTs, such as customer databases, information systems, and the Internet, on either the ability of companies to improve production, marketing, and distribution or the capacity of consumers to process information and to make decisions. Comparatively little research has addressed macromarketing issues, that is, the interplay of marketing, culture, and politics, and dynamic systems brought about by new information technologies and the ideological work they "do" through marketing practice. The purpose of this special issue therefore is to broaden our understanding of the growing presence of ICTs in marketing and society, with papers highlighting the implications for a world in which consumers, marketers, and societies affect and are affected by ICTs.


Religious sites are often at the center of confrontation. Groups frequently clash over the structures and the historical narratives surrounding sacred spaces. Religious sites encompass deeply entrenched meanings for groups of all backgrounds. These spaces represent identity, tradition, history, family, and belief systems. For minority groups, their religious sites can help provide a sense of belonging and serve as a monument to their history in the community. Due to their symbolic importance, religious sites are also vulnerable to violence by outside groups. Destructive acts targeting religious architecture and symbols are common throughout the world, but are especially frequent in identity-based conflicts, such as in Bosnia. However, the study of these attacks and their relationship to nationalist movements, particularly in Asia, has not been adequately studied. This article examines the destruction of Islamic sites in three distinct countries and contexts: India, Myanmar, and Xinjiang, China. In each case, Muslims are religious minorities and face varying levels of persecution. This article argues that the destruction of religious spaces and symbols has been used both literally and symbolically to claim a space for the dominant group and assert a right to the associated territory. The elimination of Muslim sites is part of a broader attempt to engage in a historical revisionism that diminishes or vilifies Muslims belonging in the region.


Background Corticosteroids may inhibit growth hormone (GH) axis, reducing GH release, decreasing tissue expression of growth factors, inhibiting IGF-1 bioactivity, osteoblast activity, promoting bone resorption. Objectives Evaluating adverse effects of inhaled corticosteroids used in asthmatic children on the following biological parameters: GH (two measurements), IGF-1(insulin growth factor-1), FAS (alkaline phosphatase), correlated with the presence or absence of atopy (immunoglobulin E levels). Methods The prospective study included 74 asthmatic children, treated with inhaled corticosteroids aged between 5 and 13 years of age, divided into subgroups. Each type of inhaled glucocorticoid fluticasone, budesonide, mometasone furoate (single or in combination with long-acting bronchodilators) has been analysed for each patient. T-test, Mann-Whitney, Chi-square, binomial tests were used to ascertain the relations between average dose, the duration of treatment and the biological parameters mentioned . Results There were found statistically significant differences (p<0.05) in: patients treated with Seretide 25/50 between the number of patients with GH values < 1ng/ml and number of patients with GH > 1ng/ml (second measurement of GH). patients treated with Symbicort 4.5/80, between the number of patients with GH values < 1ng/ml and number of patients with GH > 1ng/ml (first measurement of GH). patients treated with Seretide 50/100 for the following parameters: GH (both determinations), IgE and FAS. Conclusions Systemic effects of fluticasone propionate and budesonide formoterol in small and medium doses were noted in the association with long-acting bronchodilators and were more extensive accordingly to the duration of treatment.


Objectives
SPECTRUM research cigarettes (SPECTRUMs) are being used in trials evaluating the effects of switching to reduced nicotine content (RNC) cigarettes. Because smokers have a high brand affinity, we evaluated if they were willing to switch and continue smoking normal nicotine content (NNC) SPECTRUMs.

Methods
We asked smokers (N = 341) to rate their own brand of cigarettes and NNC SPECTRUMs (after 2 weeks of use) using subjective measures including satisfaction, reward, taste, and craving reduction. We measured plasma cotinine, exhaled carbon monoxide (CO), and cigarettes per day (CPD), and recorded reasons for dropping out.

Results
After 2 weeks, 95% of participants chose to continue using SPECTRUMs for an additional 18 weeks. Moreover, 67% said SPECTRUMs were as good as or better than their own brand, and 65% said they would consider purchasing them. Ratings of satisfaction, reward, and craving reduction were 10%-15% lower on SPECTRUMs than on their own brand (p < .01). There were no differences in these ratings between menthol and non-menthol smokers.

Conclusions
Menthol and non-menthol SPECTRUMs are acceptable to smokers. Lower SPECTRUM ratings were likely due to brand switching and did not hinder study retention.


Clinical profile of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) had shifted from symptomatic disorder, with hypercalcemic symptoms, kidney stones, overt bone disease, or a specific neuromuscular dysfunction toward a more asymptomatic state. Patients with symptomatic PHPT absolutely require parathyroidectomy (PTX). Surgical treatment is the well established and definitive treatment for PHPT. Consensus Conference at National Institute of Health (NIH) proposed the guidelines for PTX in asymptomatic PHPT. They included (1) serum calcium level was 1.0 mg/dL above upper limit of normal, (2) 24-h urinary calcium was over 400 mg, (3) creatinine clearance is reduced by 30%, (4) bone mineral density (T-score) reduced 2.5 SD below the peak bone mass at any site, and (5) patients under 50 years of age, and (6) patients for whom medical surveillance was either not desirable or not possible. Because in about 25% of patients asymptomatic PHPT will show progression, because it is important to monitor patients who are not undergoing PTX. Normocalcemic PHPT has been frequently found in patients whose bone mineral density is reduced. This diagnostic consideration requires that all potential causes of secondary HPT. The surgical procedure has been progressive induced by the developments of preoperative image diagnosis and intraoperative PTH assay. Minimally invasive PTX could expand surgical indications in patients with mild asymptomatic PHPT.


BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
HIV-infected patients often undergo kidney biopsy. The risks of percutaneous ultrasound-guided kidney biopsy in this population are not well established.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS
This was a case-control, single-center study of 1116 (243 with HIV infection and 873 without) consecutive ultrasound-guided biopsies from 1024 patients. The primary outcome was any major or minor complication. Major complications included biopsy-associated bleeding that required transfusion, angiography, or surgery; hypotension that required intervention; and death. Minor complications included development of a hematoma or gross hematuria. The odds of complication was assessed with logistic regression.

RESULTS
Overall complication rates (8.6 versus 7.2%) did not significantly differ between HIV-infected and noninfected individuals. HIV-positive status did not predict complication. In the entire cohort, hepatitis C infection was associated with a 2.08 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.47 to 2.93) increased odds of complication, and each 10,000-cells/mm(3) decrease in prebiopsy platelet count a 1.05 (95% CI 1.02 to 1.08) increased odds of complication. In addition, prebiopsy hematocrit <30% and estimated GFR <30 ml/min per 1.73 m(2) were associated with major complication. Whereas the association of prebiopsy platelet count was not modified by HIV infection, hepatitis C/HIV co-infection was associated with a 5.71 (95% CI 1.89 to 17.2) increased odds of complication as compared with 1.27 (95% CI 0.73 to 2.19) in hepatitis C-positive/HIV-negative individuals.

CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous kidney biopsy is a relatively safe, well-tolerated procedure in the HIV-infected population. HIV-infected individuals who are co-infected with hepatitis C seem to be at greatest risk.


Background: Hydration status in the working environment of hot and conveniently cool may influence the health status of workers, including their hydration status. This study aimed to determine the health, nutrition and hydration status of workers in two different working environment, i.e. hot and conveniently cool environment.
Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was done on apparently healthy male subjects, age 25-45 years. Two groups of factory workers consisted of 39 subjects working in environment exposed directly to heat and the other doing administrative work in cool environment. Data on their health status (physical examination), weight, height, waist circumference, fat body composition, laboratory result, were collected. The data was presented as average value and  proportion; statistical analysis with unpaired-t (Mann-Whitney test) and chi-square test was used.
Results: Subjects working in a hot environment were more prone to dehydration  in comparison to their counterparts, as was shown by significantly higher values of several hydration status biomarkers: hemoglobin (15.6 vs 14.8 g/dL, p = 0.017), hematocrit (46 vs 44.5%, p = 0.040), blood viscosity (23 vs 12 mEq/L, p < 0.001), and blood sodium concentration (140 vs 138 mEq/L, p < 0.001). In contrast, subjects working in a conveniently cool environment who did more administrative tasks were physically less active, had significantly lower HDL-cholesterol level (43 vs 52.1 mg/dL, p = 0.005), higher body and visceral fat compositions (21.6 vs 17.6%, p = 0.008, and 10 vs 8%, p = 0.015, respectively) compared to their counterparts.
Conclusion: Workers in hot and cool working environment are prone to nutrition- and health problems as well as dehydration, suggesting special attention to the provision of timely drinking water, and physical activity during working time.


The RCN Emergency Care Association and the Black Country A&E professional development group are holding their annual emergency nursing research conference on March 31. It is to take place at Wolverhampton Science Park. For details, contact Alastair Gray by phone on 01902 307999 x2055 or by email at firstname.lastname@example.com.


Many veterans are now returning from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) deployments with physical and mental health problems. However, there are few studies that examine the impact of moral injury on both physical and mental well-being. This study examines the impact of moral injury on self-reported general physical health, general mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, and depression symptoms. Cross-sectional data were collected at as part of a pilot study at the New Jersey Veteran Affairs. 100 OEF/OIF veterans recruited at the New Jersey Veteran Affairs completed the paper questionnaire. We found that moral injury and combat experiences positively predicted post-traumatic stress disorder scores. Seeing the aftermath of battle and moral injury were negatively associated with mental well-being and positively associated with depression. Physical health status was negatively associated with depression. Spirituality and moral injury were negatively associated with physical health, whereas age was positively associated with physical health. Moral injury plays an important role in both physical and mental health outcomes for OEF/OIF veterans, but it is often not addressed in health care. These results underline the need for an approach to veterans' health care that includes discussion of existential and moral issues since they may impact health outcomes for many service members.


Two strains of sporeforming, xylan-digesting, rod-shaped bacteria were isolated from a 10−8dilution of rumen ingesta taken from two sheep fed a corn stover ration. To determine the source of these strains, we examined the corn stover and isolated two strains of similar bacteria from it. The four strains were remarkably tolerant to oxygen although they did not grow in liquid medium that was shaken while exposed to air. They fermented a wide variety of carbon sources and produced formic, acetic, and lactic acids, ethanol, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen from xylan. The deoxyribonucleic acid base composition was 40 mol% guanine plus cytosine. The name proposed for these strains is Clostridium aerotolerans; the type strain is strain X8A62 (ATCC 43524).


Providing support to parents and their children to help address the cycle of intergenerational impacts of mental illness and reduce the negative consequences for children is a key focus of selective prevention approaches in public mental health. However, a key issue for children of parents with a mental illness is the lack of access to early intervention and prevention support when needed. They are not easily identifiable (until presenting with significant mental health issues of their own) and not easily accessing the necessary support that address the complex interplay of parental mental illness within families. There are significant barriers to the early identification of these children, particularly for mental health care. Furthermore, there is a lack of collaborative care that might enhance identification as well as offer services and support for these families. The "It takes a Village" project seeks to improve mental health outcomes for children through the co-development, implementation and evaluation of an approach to collaborative practice concerned with the identification of families where a parent has a mental illness, and establishing a service model to promote child-focused support networks in Austria. Here we describe the development of service delivery approach for the "It takes a Village" project that aims to improve identification and support of these children within enhancements of the existing service systems and informal supports. The paper describes the use of codesign and other implementation strategies, applied to a research setting, with the aim of impacting the sustainability of workforce reform to achieve lasting social impact. Results highlight the steps involved in translating evidence-based components, local practice wisdom and lived experience into the "It takes a Village" practice model for Tyrol, Austria. We highlight through this paper how regional context-specific solutions are essential in the redesign of care models that meet the complex needs of children of parents with a mental illness. Service system and policy formation with local and experienced stakeholders are also vital to ensure the solutions are implementation-ready, particularly when introducing new practice models that rely on organizational change and new ways of practice with vulnerable families. This also creates a solid foundation for the evaluation of the "It take a Village" approach for children of parents with a mental illness in Austria.