BACKGROUND Field of study may influence the timing of transitions to the labor market, marriage, and parenthood among college graduates. Research to date has yet to study how field of study is associated with the interweaving of these transitions in the USA. OBJECTIVE The current study examines gendered influences of college field of study on transitions to a series of adult roles, including full-time work, marriage, and parenthood. METHODS We use Cox proportional hazards models and multinomial logistic regression to examine gendered associations between field of study and the three transitions among college graduates of the NLSY97 (National Longitudinal Survey of Youth) cohort. RESULTS Men majoring in STEM achieve early transitions to full-time work, marriage, and parenthood; women majoring in STEM show no significant advantage in finding full-time work and delayed marriage and childbearing; women in business have earlier transitions to full-time work and marriage than women in other fields, demonstrating an advantage similar to that of men in STEM. CONCLUSIONS The contrast between men and women in STEM shows that transition to adulthood remains gendered; the contrast between women in STEM and women in business illustrates that a prestigious career may not necessarily delay family formation.


Equations based on surface renewal (SR) analysis to estimate the sensible heat flux (H) require as input the mean ramp amplitude and period observed in the ramp‐like pattern of the air temperature measured at high frequency. A SR‐based method to estimate sensible heat flux (HSR‐LST) requiring only low‐frequency measurements of the air temperature, horizontal mean wind speed, and land‐surface temperature as input was derived and tested under unstable conditions over a heterogeneous canopy (olive grove). HSR‐LST assumes that the mean ramp amplitude can be inferred from the difference between land‐surface temperature and mean air temperature through a linear relationship and that the ramp frequency is related to a wind shear scale characteristic of the canopy flow. The land‐surface temperature was retrieved by integrating in situ sensing measures of thermal infrared energy emitted by the surface. The performance of HSR‐LST was analyzed against flux tower measurements collected at two heights (close to and well above the canopy top). Crucial parameters involved in HSR‐LST, which define the above mentioned linear relationship, were explained using the canopy height and the land surface temperature observed at sunrise and sunset. Although the olive grove can behave as either an isothermal or anisothermal surface, HSR‐LST performed close to H measured using the eddy covariance and the Bowen ratio energy balance methods. Root mean square differences between HSR‐LST and measured H were of about 55 W m−2. Thus, by using multitemporal thermal acquisitions, HSR‐LST appears to bypass inconsistency between land surface temperature and the mean aerodynamic temperature. The one‐source bulk transfer formulation for estimating H performed reliable after calibration against the eddy covariance method. After calibration, the latter performed similar to the proposed SR‐LST method.


In a scenario where two parties share, act on and exchange some physical resource, the assumption that the parties' actions are ordered according to a definite causal structure yields constraints on the possible correlations that can be established. We show that the set of correlations that are compatible with a definite causal order forms a polytope, whose facets define causal inequalities. We fully characterize this causal polytope in the simplest case of bipartite correlations with binary inputs and outputs. We find two families of nonequivalent causal inequalities; both can be violated in the recently introduced framework of process matrices, which extends the standard quantum formalism by relaxing the implicit assumption of a fixed causal structure. Our work paves the way to a more systematic investigation of causal inequalities in a theory-independent way, and of their violation within the framework of process matrices.


40 Gbit/s wavelength and polarisation insensitive all-optical clock recovery using a two-section distributed feedback (DFB) laser has been demonstrated. The polarisation sensitivity of the two-section DFB laser was solved by converting incoming data onto a local laser through cross-gain modulation using a semiconductor optical amplifier. The scheme has a sensitivity of -13 dBm.


We present a novel approach to reconstruct large or featureless scenes. Our method jointly estimates camera poses and a room layout from a set of partial reconstructions due to camera tracking interruptions when scanning a large or featureless scene. Unlike the existing methods relying on feature point matching to localize the camera, we exploit the 3D "box" structure of a typical room layout that meets the Manhattan World property. We first estimate a local layout for each partial scan separately and then combine these local layouts to form a globally aligned layout with loop closure. We validate our method quantitatively and qualitatively on real and synthetic scenes of various sizes and complexities. The evaluations and comparisons show superior effectiveness and accuracy of our method.


Background Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are a major public health problem, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Iran has one of the highest mortalities from RTIs Stakeholders. The aim of this study was to explore barriers to the prevention of RTIs and provide appropriate suggestions for prevention, based on the perceptions of stakeholders, victims and road-users as regards RTIs. Method Thirty-eight semistructured interviews were conducted with informants in the field of RTI prevention. A qualitative approach using grounded theory method was employed to analyze the material gathered. Results The core variable was identified as The lack of a system approach to road-user safety. The following barriers in relation to RTI prevention were identified as: human factors, transportation system and organisational coordination. Suggestions for improvement included education (for the general public and targeted group training), more effective legislation, more rigorous law enforcement, improved engineering in road infrastructure, and an integrated organisation to supervise and coordinate preventive activities. Conclusion The major barriers identified in this study were human factors and efforts to change human behaviour were suggested by means of public education campaigns and stricter law enforcement. However, the lack of a system approach to RTI prevention was also an important concern. There is an urgent need for both an integrated system to coordinate RTI activities and prevention and a major change in stakeholders attitudes towards RTI prevention. The focus of all activities should take place on road users safety.


: Corrosion processes are accountable for serious losses in the oil industry. Although organic and inorganic materials and mixed materials inhibitors have been used for a long time to control or reduce corrosion. Using nano-materials as inhibitors has gained an increasing applications role because of their exceptional properties. Nano materials are good corrosion inhibitors because they possess many advantages such as high efficiency of inhibition, low cost, minimum toxicity and effortless production. This work examines the use of nano-materials as inhibitors to prevent corrosion of carbon steel in drilling mud. Anti-corrosion properties of zinc and nickel ferrite nano materials (ZnFe 2 O 4 , Zn 0.6 Ni 0.4 Fe 2 O 4 ) have been investigated over carbon steel in local Iraqi bentonite mud as a source of the corrosion. It has been found that under the given conditions, ferrites act as efficient corrosion inhibitors of carbon steel.


In this paper, we propose an efficient dynamic topology reconfiguration method for a service overlay network called ACBP (Approximate Cluster-Based Policy), which does not require detailed information on future traffic requirements.Instead of the detailed information on future traffic requirements, ACBP utilizes community information of a social network among users for roughly estimating traffic requirements among users. In this paper, we also evaluate the effectiveness of our ACBP through simulations. Consequently, we show that the total cost of ACBP, which does not use the detailed information on traffic requirements, is only approximately 10% larger than that of existing method CBP (Cluster-Based Policy), which requires the detailed traffic information.


A game-based learning team exercise was specifically designed as a teaching tool which aimed to unlock the black box of cultivating student engagement in an online learning environment. In the exercise, online distance learning students were divided into police and prisoner groups whereby they were required to use different resources for catching the prisoners or for escaping from the police on a virtual map. The team exercise helped to create an innovative online learning environment that was active, cooperative, and encouraged student engagement, these being some of the key elements to enhance the quality of student experience. To evaluate the effectiveness of this exercise, an experiment was conducted using survey data from undergraduate students in an online learning environment. Results showed that the online class with a team-based activity had significantly higher scores in students' behavioral engagement than the other online class without a team-based activity while the differences in cognitive and emotional engagements were not significant.


INTRODUCTION
Purpureocillium lilacinum is emerging as a causal agent of hyalohyphomycosis that is refractory to antifungal drugs; however, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying P. lilacinum infection are not understood. In this study, we investigated the interaction of P. lilacinum conidia with human macrophages and dendritic cells in vitro.

METHODS
Spores of a P. lilacinum clinical isolate were obtained by chill-heat shock. Mononuclear cells were isolated from eight healthy individuals. Monocytes were separated by cold aggregation and differentiated into macrophages by incubation for 7 to 10 days at 37°C or into dendritic cells by the addition of the cytokines human granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor and interleukin-4. Conidial suspension was added to the human cells at 1:1, 2:1, and 5:1 (conidia:cells) ratios for 1h, 6h, and 24h, and the infection was evaluated by Giemsa staining and light microscopy.

RESULTS
After 1h interaction, P. lilacinum conidia were internalized by human cells and after 6h contact, some conidia became inflated. After 24h interaction, the conidia produced germ tubes and hyphae, leading to the disruption of macrophage and dendritic cell membranes. The infection rate analyzed after 6h incubation of P. lilacinum conidia with cells at 2:1 and 1:1 ratios was 76.5% and 25.5%, respectively, for macrophages and 54.3% and 19.5%, respectively, for cultured dendritic cells.

CONCLUSIONS
P. lilacinum conidia are capable of infecting and destroying both macrophages and dendritic cells, clearly demonstrating the ability of this pathogenic fungus to invade human phagocytic cells.


The analysis of the survey of 1016 adolescent girls living in Bishkek, Kara-Kol, Jalalabad, we found that in Bishkek 79,1% of adolescent girls living with one of the parents, that leads to earlier adulthood. In Jalalabad girls up to 18 years more likely lives in a civil marriage. In 95,4% teenagers take money from their parents. In Bishkek, girls were significantly more likely to buy cigarettes. There is no trust relations between teens and teachers. And modern teenage girls do not want to make judgment on their parents' secrets about reproductive behavior.


Pyrotechnic smoke compositions for visual obscuration containing boron carbide, potassium nitrate, potassium chloride, and various lubricants are described. Only the waxy lubricants stearic acid and calcium stearate slowed the burning rate into a range suitable for end-burning smoke grenades. For compositions pressed into steel cans, the addition of just 2 wt-% calcium stearate was shown to reduce the burning rate from 0.50 cm s−1 to 0.09 cm s−1. In this system, potassium chloride serves as a diluent that reduces incandesence but also increases slag formation. Compositions containing potassium chloride in the 25–30 wt-% range exhibited both acceptably low incandescense and slag formation upon burning, while also producing copious amounts of white smoke. These experimental compositions were loaded into full-size grenade cans; field and smoke chamber testing revealed that they outperform the US Army's in-service M83 TA grenade both qualitatively and quantitatively. The photopic mass-based figures of merit for experimental grenades KCl-25, KCl-30, and a production-run M83 TA grenade were 2.51, 2.19, and 1.44 m2 g−1, respectively.


We present an epidemiological model applicable to insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), based on which prevalence rates are estimated from assumed rates of incidence and mortality of diabetes. The model is illustrated by analysing epidemiological data on IDDM in Fyn County, Denmark for the period 1970-1990, with predictions of prevalence rates during 1990-2020. The epidemiological model assumes known prevalence rates as well as incidence rates and mortality at a given point of time. Under assumed rates of incidence and mortality of IDDM and its complications, the prevalence rate is the dependent variable which is estimated as a function of calendar time. We used epidemiological data on IDDM (operationally defined as insulin-treated diabetes with onset before age 30 years), blindness and nephropathy as well as mortality as reported for the years 1973 and 1987 in Fyn County, Denmark. During 1970-1990 the prevalence of IDDM increased steadily, due to increasing incidence and decreasing risk of complications and mortality. The relative prevalence of patients with nephropathy increased whereas that of blind patients decreased considerably. Under specified assumptions regarding the future levels of incidence of disease, complications and of mortality, it is estimated that the prevalence rate of IDDM in the year 2020 will be 45-60% higher than the level in 1990. The relative prevalence of patients with nephropathy will increase further, whereas the relative prevalence of blind patients will remain constant at a low level. We conclude that IDDM will represent an increasing public health problem in Denmark over the next decades, with increasing overall prevalence rates and a rising proportion of patients with nephropathy. The major determinants of this trend are increasing incidence, combined with declining mortality and declining risk of complications. It is recommended that epidemiological modelling techniques be further developed to provide improved data for the planning of the future diabetes care.


Of all the units that fought in the Civil War, the Irish Brigade seems to be the most recognized. Comprised of troops from New York who were mostly Irish-Catholics, this unit proved itself in some of the most important battles of the war. A principal player in this unit was the chaplin, Father William Corby. Through his devotions and his willingness to be ever-present at the encampments, as well as at the front, the souls of the Irish Brigade were always cared for. A combination biography, history of the Irish Brigade, day-to-day look into the lives of Civil War soldiers, and reflection on the Catholic faith, this book is wonderfully written in Corby's own words. All the aspects of his life come together here. Recommended for public and academic libraries.


The weldability assets of ASTM A 240 S41500 (ASTM A 240/A 240M) martensitic stainless steel are presented through the study of the effects of single and double thermal weld cycles on mechanical properties and microstructure of base metal (BM) and the artificial heat affected zone (HAZ) created by thermal weld simulations. For single cycles, separate peak temperatures of 1000 oC/12 s and 1350 oC/12 s (cooling times: 12 s in both cases) were evaluated, whilst two combinations of peak temperatures: (1350 oC/5 s + 1000 oC/5 s) oC and (1350 oC/12 s + 1000 oC/12 s) oC (cooling times: 5 s and 12 s), were applied for double cycles. Post weld heat treatment (PWHT) with short and long holding times were applied and Vickers hardness, impact toughness and metallographic examinations were used in order to assess mechanical and metallographic properties in the as-simulated (no heat treated) and postweld heat treated conditions. Best properties of the welded joint for double thermal weld cycles with long holding times were reached, which reveals the good weldability and applicability of the tested material in post weld heat treated conditions.


The Human Rights Committee is charged with the task of monitoring the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Since its inception it has arguably become the most important independent international human rights body in the world. Through the consideration of State Reports, from over half of the world community, and the examination of communications submitted by individuals (under the Optional Protocol to the Covenant), the Human Rights Committee seeks to establish a universal human rights jurisprudence. This book analyses the institutional characteristics of the Human Rights Committee, how it has developed its practices and procedures under the Covenant and the Optional Protocol, and analyses the jurisprudence of the Committee under selected key articles of the Covenant.


Objective:To investigate the suitability of citrus-press cakes,by-products of the juice industry as a source for the whitening agents for cosmetic industry.Methods:Ethylacetate extracts of citrus-press cakes(CCE)were examined for their anti-melanogenic potentials in terms of the inhibition of melanin production and mechanisim of melanogenesis by using Western Blot analysis with tyrosinese,tyrosinase-related protein-1(TRP-1),TRP2,and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor(MITF)proteins.To apply the topical agents,citrus-press cakes was investigated the safety in human skin cell line.Finally flavonoid analysis of CCE was also determined by HPLC analysis.Results:Results indicated that CCE were shown to down-regulate melanin content in a dose-dependent pattern.The CCE inhibited tyrosinase,TRP-2,and MITF expressions in a dose-dependent manner.To test the applicability of CCE to human skin,we used MTT assay to assess the cytotoxic effects of CCE on human keratinocyte HaCaT cells.The CCE exhibited low cytotoxicity at 50μg/mL.Characterization of the citrus-press cakes for flavonoid contents using HPLC showed varied quantity of rutin,narirutin,and hesperidin.Conclusions:Considering the anti-melanogenic activity and human safety,CCE is considered as a potential anti-melanogenic agent and may be effective for topical application for treating hyperpigmentation disorders.


Using one year of moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) and clouds and the Earth's radiant energy system (CERES) data, we provide a satellite-based assessment of top-of-atmosphere (TOA) cloud-free shortwave and longwave dust radiative effects over global oceans from the Terra satellite. Over global cloud-free oceans, the dust net radiative effect is -0.7 plusmn0.2 W middotm-2, and the TOA dust shortwave radiative effect (SWRE) dominates the longwave radiative effect (LWRE). Globally, the annual mean dust contribution to the total MODIS level 2 aerosol optical thickness (AOT, at 550 nm) is about 30% with a dust SWRE of -0.7 plusmn0.2 W middotm-2 and LWRE of 0.03 plusmn0.02 W middotm-2. Averaged over all seasons, the cloud-free diurnal mean dust radiative efficiency is -33 plusmn5 W middotm-2 middottau-1, and there is a remarkable linear relationship between the CERES SWRE and the MODIS AOT. This is the first satellite-based assessment of dust net radiative effect over the global oceans and will serve as a useful constraint for numerical modeling analysis.


G protein-coupled receptor 39 (GPR39) is a zinc-sensing receptor (ZnR) that can sense changes in extracellular Zn2+, mediate Zn2+ signal transmission, and participate in the regulation of numerous physiological activities in living organisms. For example, GPR39 activates the extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/MAPK) and phosphatidylinositol3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathways upon Zn2+ stimulation, enhances the proliferation and differentiation of colonic cells, and regulates ion transport, as well as exerting other functions. In recent years, with the increased attention to animal gut health issues and the intensive research on GPR39, GPR39 has become a potential target for regulating animal intestinal health. On the one hand, GPR39 is involved in regulating ion transport in the animal intestine, mediating the Cl− efflux by activating the K+/Cl− synergistic protein transporter, and relieving diarrhea symptoms. On the other hand, GPR39 can maintain the homeostasis of the animal intestine, promoting pH restoration in colonic cells, regulating gastric acid secretion, and facilitating nutrient absorption. In addition, GPR39 can affect the expression of tight junction proteins in intestinal epithelial cells, improving the barrier function of the animal intestinal mucosa, and maintaining the integrity of the intestine. This review summarizes the structure and signaling transduction processes involving GPR39 and the effect of GPR39 on the regulation of intestinal health in animals, with the aim of further highlighting the role of GPR39 in regulating animal intestinal health and providing new directions and ideas for studying the prevention and treatment of animal intestinal diseases.


Learning a new language can be a very hard task. However, the result is beingable to communicate with people in different language and culture from around theworld. The learning process of a new language takes time and challenge. It should bedone continuously in such a long time. In the past, English was taught in a traditionalway and made the learners bored of studying it. It is necessary to find out an interactiveand interesting way of teaching English. One of them is using games in the process ofteaching and learning English. The English language of Law is a new lesson in theLaw Faculty in UNNES. It needs a new paradigm of teaching it since it belongs toEnglish for Specific Purposes. It is different from general English in that the languagehas special lexical and linguistic features. The language of law is divided into two,spoken and written. The spoken form is used in the pedagogical, academic andprofessional fields. The use of spoken language of law in pedagogical field is forlecturing and moot. In the academic field, it is used for interacting among colleaguessuch as having seminars or discussion. In the professional field, it is used for lawyerclientconsultation and counsel-witness examination. The written form of language oflaw is used in four areas; pedagogic, academic, juridic, and legislative. The example ofwritten form used in the pedagogic is the law textbook; in the academic is articles oflaw journal; in the juridic is the legal judgment and the legal cases; in the legislativecan be seen in contracts, agreements, insurance policies, legislation rules andregulations. To transform the new register of English language of law with aninteresting and interactive way, games can be one of the solutions.Kata kunci: games, bahasa Inggris, dan hukum


This work examines, from a comparative perspective, the perceptions of parliamentary elites from MERCOSUR member countries regarding the armed forces as well as security and defence issues. In light of the growing cooperation in the field of security, it explores values and convictions among political elites so as to find signs of the development towards a regional security community in the south of Latin America. Taking into account the results of two empirical research projects on parliamentary elites, the article identifies similarities and discrepancies between deputies and senators in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay and discusses possible consequences for the future cooperation in security matters.


Abstract Type 316L(N) austenitic stainless steel is used foradvanced stage of construction at Kalpakkam, Indiasteel has been investigated and results are compareCreep test on the material both in flowing sodium andSodium velocity across the creep specimen was machange the rate of steady state creep deformation sifound to change significantly by the testing environ mlater for testing in sodium environment than that in aiin liquid sodium environment that in air environmentcompanied with higher creep rupture elongation. Opshowed extensive intergranular creep cavitation both in sodium showed relatively less creep cavitation. Alin flowing sodium and also no evidence of surface dSEM fractrographs of the creep ruptured specimens twhereas predominantly intergranular creep failure w a © 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier LtdGandhi Centre for Atomic Research. Keywords : Creep; sodium; 316L(N) SS; damage tolerance f a 1. Introduction AISI 316L(N) austenitic stainless steel (SS) is t hsecondary circuits of Liquid Metal cooled Fast primarily based on a god combination of i


Additive code C over GF(4) of length n is an additive subgroup of GF(4)n. It is well known [4] that the problem of finding stabilizer quantum error-correcting codes is transformed into problem of finding additive self-orthogonal codes over the Galois field GF(4) under a trace inner product. Our purpose is to construct good additive self-dual codes of length 13 ≤ n ≤ 21. In this paper we classify all extremal (optimal) codes of lengths 13 and 14, and we construct many extremal codes of lengths 15 and 16. Also, we construct some new extremal codes of lengths 17,18,19, and 21. We give the current status of known extremal (optimal) additive self-dual codes of lengths 13 to 21.


We studied two Corbicula morphotypes in a syntopic population in the Rhine River in order to reveal their taxonomic, reproductive and phylogenetic relationship, using morphometrics, DAF‐fingerprinting, mitochondrial COI and nuclear ITS1 sequence variation. Morphometric analysis showed that two statistically distinguishable morphotypes with few intermediates were present.Mitochondrial sequence analysis detected two divergent clades. DAF‐fingerprinting revealed three highly distinctive multilocus genotypes. Two of the multilocus genotypes were significantly associated with different morphotypes and mitochondrial lineages. The third genotype B, however, was found in both morphotypes, intermediates and mitochondrial lineages. Conclusive evidence for hybridization came from RFLP analysis of the nuclear ITS1 locus. We interpret the hybrids as F1 hybrids between different evolutionary lineages. Integration of Corbicula sequences from all over the world into Maximum Parsimony analysis suggested a simultaneous radiation resulting in several evolutionary lineages whose species status remained doubtful. An unequivocal taxonomic assignment of the two evolutionary lineages in the Rhine population was therefore not possible.


The C60/C70, sample was prepared by carbon electric arc method, and its crystal morphology was studied by optical microscopy, SEM and TEM. The results indicate that the growth of C60/C70 crystal obeys the rule of faceted growth, and it grows, into regular quadrilateral, pentagon and/or hexagon-like crystals finally.


After the enormous success of the internet and mobile networks, the next upcoming boost for information technology will be the combination of both. But developing applications for this domain is challenging, because first, most mobile devices provide only small memory and processor footprints, prohibiting resource intensive code at client side and second, mobile networks offer only limited bandwidth, and the probability to connection losses is relatively high compared to wired networks. Selecting the appropriate software architecture in terms of distributing the functionality of the system between server and client device is crucial. Application distribution patterns, known from conventional system development, are analysed for their applicability for the mobile environment. After the more abstract analysis of the patterns, the IP multimedia subsystem (IMS) which is part of the current specification of 3G mobile networks is introduced and its support for different application distribution patterns is examined.


Endoscopic techniques have recently been applied to aesthetic cosmetic surgery procedures. Endoscopic bilateral augmentation mammaplasty through a transumbilical approach ("TUBA") has recently been advocated as an alternative technique. The purpose of this article is to describe the author's transumbilical technique, to identify procedural limitations and special considerations, and to retrospectively analyze preliminary results. Five hundred thirteen patients (n = 1026 breasts) who underwent submammary transumbilical augmentation from January of 1993 through December of 1998 were evaluated. In 1997, the technique was further developed to permit subpectoral placement of implants; an additional 140 patients (n = 280 breasts) who underwent subpectoral transumbilical augmentation from September of 1997 through February of 1999 will also be presented. Success of the technique was based upon a number of criteria, including completion of the operation without conversion to an inframammary incision or reoperation, normal nipple-areola sensation, absence of hematoma formation, absence of infection, no umbilical scar revision, and patient satisfaction. Complications included hematoma (n = 2 breasts), conversion to inframammary incision (n = 5 breasts), and required secondary corrective procedure (n = 3 breasts). The majority of these complications occurred early in the learning curve. The successful augmentation rate in 1306 breasts was 99.2 percent. Based upon these results, transumbilical endoscopic breast augmentation is believed to be a safe alternative technique with excellent results.


Increasing need for secure voice communication is leading to new ideas for securing voice transmission. This work relates to a relatively new concept of sending encrypted speech as pseudo-speech in audio domain over existing civilian voice communication infrastructure, like 2G-4G networks and VoIP. Such a setting is more universal compared to military "Crypto Phones" and can be opened for public evaluation. Nevertheless, secure communication requires a prior exchange of cryptographic keys over voice channels, without reliance on any Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). This work presents the first formally verified and authenticated key exchange (AKE) over voice channels for secure military-grade voice communications. It describes the operational principles of the novel communication system and enlists its security requirements. The voice channel characteristics in the context of AKE protocol execution is thoroughly explained, with a strong emphasis on differences to classical storeand-forward data channels. Namely a robust protocol has been designed specifically for voice channels with double authentication based on signatures and Short Authentication Strings (SAS). The protocol is detailed and analyzed in terms of fundamental security properties and successfuly verified in a symbolic model using


The rural homestay has gradually become a new format in the development of rural tourism in China. The rural homestay is a different accommodation experience than the traditional hotel. It brings the most interaction between people, the warmth of the people, the family service. However, due to various reasons, the villages in many places are still in the state of "farmhouse", and the quality of service is seriously lagging behind. This paper selects the Shanli Lohas rural hotel as the research object, and builds a reasonable evaluation system of the B&B service quality from four aspects: infrastructure, service quality, resource characteristics and local contact by means of participatory observation and deep semi-structured interviews. Investigate the advantages and disadvantages of its development, and propose the formation of brand effect, strengthen the development and design of night tourism products and activities, expand the business model of the second and third consumption, and improve the service quality improvement measures of the personnel security system. This research not only supplements the research on the quality service of the current rural homestay, but also proposes specific solutions from the actual situation. It aims to better promote the development of rural homestay and promote the development of rural touris


OBJECTIVES
To assess the reliability of prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time results generated from citrated whole blood samples following short-term storage at room temperature.

METHODS
Clotting times were measured in blood samples from 40 dogs that showed a variety of clinical signs. Before measurement of prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time in citrated plasma, whole blood samples were split in three aliquots; one was processed within 30 minutes of collection (fresh) while the remaining two were stored unseparated at room temperature for 24 (24RT) or 48 (48RT) hours.

RESULTS
The median prothrombin time for the 24RT (7 seconds) and 48RT (7·2 seconds) samples were not significantly different to those obtained from the fresh (7·1 seconds) samples but the median activated partial thromboplastin time for the 24RT (12·6 seconds) and 48RT (12 seconds) samples were significantly shorter than those obtained from the fresh samples (14·2 seconds).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Storage of citrated whole blood at room temperature for 24 or 48 hours did not significantly alter the measurement of prothrombin time but resulted in significantly shorter activated partial thromboplastin time results. Extrapolating from these findings, it is proposed that unseparated clinical samples that are submitted to an external diagnostic laboratory for the performance of clotting times, may generate reliable prothrombin time but unreliable activated partial thromboplastin time results.


Background: Parasitic Entero pathogens causing diarrhoea is considered as one of the major health problems in HIV infected patients especially those with AIDS.  The knowledge of prevalence of these pathogens in a particular area can guide clinicians to provide early clinical management in HIV-associated diarrhea. Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to study the prevalence of parasitic enteropathogens and compare the intestinal parasitic pathogens in HIV infected diarrhoeal (acute and chronic) and in HIV infected non diarrheal patients and to elucidate the relation between CD4 counts and intestinal parasitic infections Materials and Methods: This study was conducted between Nov 2016 and November 2017 in the Department of Microbiology. Stool samples from 105 HIV seropositive cases with diarrhea and without diarrhea were examined by routine parasitological laboratory procedures. CD4 testing was done to know the CD4 cell count.  Results: Out of 105 cases of HIV seropositive cases 15 cases had acute diarrhea, 66 cases had chronic diarrhea and 24 HIV seropositive cases were without diarrhea. Enteric pathogens were detected in 48 (45.7%) number of patients. Isospora sp. was the most common parasite. Other parasites included Ancylostoma duodenale and Entamoeba histolytica. The diarrheal HIV-positive patients had lower mean CD4 counts as compared to those without diarrhea. Conclusions: Identification of the etiological agent of diarrhea in patients with HIV/ AIDS is very important as it can help in the initiation of appropriate therapy which helps in reduction of morbidity and mortality in these patients.Keywords: Prevalence; Enteric parasites acute; Chronic Diarrhea; HIV; CD4 count.


By virtue of the generalized Hellmann–Feynman theorem for the ensemble average, we obtain the internal energy and average energy consumed by the resistance R in a quantized resistance–inductance–capacitance (RLC) electric circuit. We also calculate the entropy-variation with R. The relation between entropy and R is also derived. By the use of figures we indeed see that the entropy increases with the increment of R.


Abstract. The Sweeping Langmuir Probe (SLP) is one of the
instruments on board the triple-unit CubeSat PICASSO, an ESA in-orbit
demonstrator launched in September 2020, which is flying at about 540 km
altitude. SLP comprises four small cylindrical probes mounted at the tip of the
solar panels. It aims to perform in situ measurements of the plasma
parameters (electron density and temperature together with ion density) and
of the spacecraft potential in the ionosphere. Before the launch, the
instrument, accommodated on an electrically representative PICASSO mock-up,
was tested in a plasma chamber. It is shown that the traditional
orbital-motion-limited collection theory used for cylindrical Langmuir
probes cannot be applied directly for the interpretation of the measurements
because of the limited dimensions of the probes with respect to the Debye
length in the ionosphere. Nevertheless, this method can be adapted to take
into account the short length of the probes. To reduce the data downlink
while keeping the most important information in the current-voltage
characteristics, SLP includes an on-board adaptive sweeping capability. This
functionality has been validated in both the plasma chamber and in space, and
it is demonstrated that with a reduced number of data points the electron
retardation and electron saturation regions can be well resolved. Finally,
the effect of the contamination of the probe surface, which can be a serious
issue in Langmuir probe data analysis, has been investigated. If not
accounted for properly, this effect could lead to substantial errors in the
estimation of the electron temperature.


Out of 205 children, former patients with viral hepatitis, investigated after the end of the follow-up period by clinical and laboratory examinations, 9 (4.4%) presented mild or moderate pathological alterations. At the second control, carried out after an another interval de 1-1½ years, the pathological alterations were refound only in 2 of the former patients, suggesting that all the others presented lasting forms of acute viral hepatitis evolving towards healing. The presence of AgHBs and the alteration of proteinogramme in the acute phase of VH can serve as criteria of unfavourable prognosis of the disease evolution and impose a preferential follow-up of this category of patients.


In order to make optimal quantitative use of multi-wavelength spaceborne lidar data in the upcoming satellite lidar mission CALIPSO (Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations), it is essential that the lidar be well calibrated. In view of the use of a narrow bandwidth receiver filter in CALIPSO, it is necessary to quantitatively distinguish Cabannes scattering from the full bandwidth Rayleigh scattering for correct calibration of the 532 nm channel based on Rayleigh normalization. This also affects the 1064 nm calibration when it is implemented by the 532/1064 calibration ratio approach. Secondly, the calibration obtained by normalizing to a nearly Rayleigh background signal depends on the backscatter ratio R, defined as the ratio of the total backscattering coefficient [aerosol backscattering coefficient, /spl beta//sub a/(z), plus molecular backscattering coefficient, /spl beta//sub m/(z)] to the molecular backscattering coefficient, /spl beta//sub m/(z). How well this backscatter ratio, R, can be estimated in clean air regions will play an important role in lidar measurements of aerosol and cloud by CALIPSO. The LITE (Lidar In-space Technology Experiment) mission, the first lidar designed for atmospheric studies to fly in Earth orbit, provided an important database for doing the analysis and simulations for future lidar systems on free-flying satellite platforms. This paper presents calculations of Rayleigh/Cabannes scattering cross sections that should apply for CALIPSO by incorporating different depolarization factors appropriate for different spectral bandwidths. LITE data are analyzed to recover estimates of R characteristic of clean air regions. Errors in recovering R resulting from uncertainties in the calibration constant and two-way transmission from the calibration reference height are simulated and assessed.


Emotional styles concern the ways in which individuals adapt and respond to the world and can be defined using six dimensions: outlook, resilience, social intuition, self-awareness, sensitivity to context and attention. The Emotional Style Questionnaire (ESQ) assesses how people vary across the dimensions and gauges an individual's overall level of emotional health. An Italian version of the ESQ (ESQ-ITA) could favour the understanding of cultural characteristics concerning emotions and personality within the Italian population, with both clinical and social implications. The aim of the present study is to validate the ESQ in the Italian language and to assess its psychometric properties. Two studies were conducted. Study 1 examined construct validity, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability, through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), Cronbach's alpha estimates, and by estimating the Spearman's rank correlation Study 2 examined construct validity and internal consistency through the CFA and Cronbach's alpha estimates and investigated criterion validity by correlating the ESQ-ITA dimensions with the corresponding scales or subscales used for the validation estimating, again, the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient Study 2 also examined the criterion validity of the validated scales and the ESQ-ITA overall score to assess its suitability as an indicator of emotional health. ESQ-ITA was confirmed to be reliable and stable. The correlation between the ESQ-ITA overall score and the other scales and questionnaires supports the use of ESQ-ITA to measure emotional health. The Italian version of the ESQ opens up the possibility to enrich the research landscape with new knowledge that will be useful for advancing the pathogenetic and therapeutic aspects of psychological distress and emotional dysregulation.


The kinetics of the hydrogenation of 2 CpCr(CO)3•/[CpCr(CO)3]2 to CpCr(CO)3H has been investigated. The reaction is second-order in Cr and first-order in H2, with a rate constant (if the rate law is written with [CpCr(CO)3•]2) of 12(2) M–2 s–1 at 25 °C in benzene. DFT calculations rule out a side-on H2 complex as an intermediate and suggest either (1) homolytic cleavage via a collinear Cr–H–H–Cr transition state or (2) end-on approach of H2 to one Cr as charge is transferred to the other, followed by heterolytic cleavage of the coordinated H2 between the first Cr and the O of a carbonyl ligand on the second Cr, and eventual isomerization of the resulting O-protonated intermediate to CpCr(CO)3H.


The current study aimed to examine the correlation between Common Multiple Intelligences (CMIs) and preferred English Language Teaching Strategies (PELTS) of English Language Teachers working in public sector schools of Southern Punjab. A sample of 100 female and 100 male English language teachers was selected using convenient sampling technique to investigate the correlation between the two variables of the current study as well as to assess gender differences on PELTS and CMIs among English language teachers of public schools of Southern Punjab. Two questionnaires were developed by adapting Armstrong's Multiple Intelligences Inventory (MII) (1994) and Strategy Inventory of Language Learning (SILL) by Oxford (1990). Data obtained from the questionnaires was analyzed by means of descriptive statistical techniques, independent sample t-test and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (rs) with SPSS (V-20). A weak correlation rs = 0.240 (significant at P<0.01 level) was found between PELTS (i.e. Memory Strategies) and CMIs (i.e. Verbal-Linguistic Intelligences) among English language teachers. These findings imply that the language teachers do not take into account their multiple intelligences (MIs) while designing or selecting English language teaching strategies (TS). It is recommended that the teachers must be aware of their own intelligence strengths to be better able to select good TS to help the young minds in achieving their learning goals. The study is expected to provide a framework for English language teachers to improve their teaching through adopting a more practical approach of utilizing their MIs in selection and development of TS.


Current theory defines conservation, or heritage management, as 'managing thoughtful change' and recommends a landscape-based approach towards heritage management. Moreover, it indicates a landscape-based approach to heritage management as a key indicator for sustainable socio-economic development. The recent UNESCO (November 2011) recommendation on the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) provides guidance on such a landscape-based approach at international level. Yet, it is now up to the national and local governments to adapt, disseminate and facilitate its implementation. The research aims to develop a method to reveal the way historic cities currently manage contemporary socio-economic transformations. This is done by evaluating their management practices by means of an assessment framework. This framework has been deduced from a thorough literature survey to identify the evolution and guidelines on international cultural heritage management, including those proposed by HUL. The framework intents to be a method to reveal the differences and resemblances between existing local policy and management practices and those recommended by the HUL approach, defined for 4 dependent variables: attributes, values, stakeholders and strategies. The part of the framework presented in this paper to reveal how the values of cultural heritage are addressed in current policy. The recent adoption of HUL makes it difficult to assess the results of its implementation; therefore the framework will be used to assess the policy and management practices in cities that previously implemented measures similar to HUL such as Amsterdam.


In a two-part study, two groups of 100 outpatients each were randomly assigned a colon preparation. In part 1, a standard 1-day diet/cathartic combination was compared with Golytely. In part 2, diet/cathartics was compared with Golytely plus Dulcolax (bisacodyl). The standard preparation provided good or excellent feces removal in 81 (80%) of 101 subjects. Golytely alone was successful in only 21 (53%) of 40 patients, but Golytely followed by Dulcolax achieved good or excellent feces removal in 31 (82%) of 38. Degraded mucosal coating with Golytely alone, due to excessive fluid retention, was also corrected by the addition of Dulcolax. Golytely alone is not an adequate method of colon cleansing for double-contrast barium enema, but Golytely plus Dulcolax is as effective as the standard preparation.


An electron donor-acceptor (EDA) complex photoactivation strategy for radical fluorosulfonylation is disclosed for the first time. Simply upon blue light irradiation, the FSO2 radical can be generated efficiently under catalyst-free, base-free, and additive-free conditions, which enables facile access to 6-keto alkenylsulfonyl fluorides from readily available propargyl alcohols and FSO2Cl. The 6-keto alkenylsulfonyl fluoride motif has been showcased as a versatile SuFEx hub with diverse follow-up derivatizations.


The paper explores the spatial spillover of carbon emissions and influencing factors based on spatial econometric model using panel series data over the period 2000-2012 in case of China. The results confirm that carbon emissions have spatial dependence, spatial spillover effects of provincial carbon emissions and influencing factors are obvious; Economic growth, industrial structure and export dependence coefficients are positive, technology progress on reducing carbon emissions growth effects is remarkable, energy prices effects failed to pass the test of significance. The spatial spillover effects of carbon emissions and related influencing factors among neighbor provinces must be considered when government departments formulate policies and development planning. The paper opens up new insights for China decrease China's carbon emissions from different dimension as a whole.


PURPOSE: To investigate the extent to which cues are reported to be associated with urinary urgency incontinence and urinary urgency. DESIGN: Descriptive and correlational study comparing 2 groups. METHODS: An online questionnaire assessing the extent to which 19 environmental, 3 mood, 3 cognitive, 3 stress incontinence, 1 bladder volume cue, and 3 unlikely cues were associated with episodes of urinary urgency incontinence and urgency was administered. PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred six participants were randomly drawn from a panel of respondents maintained by Zoomerang, Inc. Approximately half (n = 150) had self-reported diagnoses of overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) and half did not. Cue ratings were compared between persons with and without OAB and between likely and unlikely cues. RESULTS: The most frequently reported environmental cues were "On the way to the bathroom" and "Arrival at home/opening front door"; these cues were reported by both groups. Respondents with and without OAB showed significant differences in the mean number of cues associated with urinary urgency incontinence and with urinary urgency; persons with OAB were always higher. Significant differences between persons with and without OAB were found for 28 of 32 cues associated with incontinence and 25 of 32 cues associated with urinary urgency. To investigate response bias, within-subjects analyses compared mean responses to the 3 unlikely cues to means of all other cues. Analyses revealed that scores for unlikely cues were significantly lower than scores for likely cues. CONCLUSION: Cues associated with urgency incontinence and urgency were frequently reported by both groups. However, responding to cues was significantly more frequent among those who had been diagnosed with OAB. These findings may have implications for the diagnosis and treatment of urinary urgency incontinence.


During a silicon debug, it was found that the gain of a radio receiver circuit dropped dramatically at certain frequencies due to an imbalance in one of the signal paths. A metal fix was proposed, but consensus could not be reached on how to validate it because of the difficulty of the FIB edit required and the inherent uncertainty of the approach. In this article, the authors explain how they came up with an alternative approach that proved to be faster, more reliable, and easier to validate than the cut-and-join fix initially proposed. They describe each step of the analog circuit editing process, explaining how they deposit, characterize, and connect matched resistors using focused ion beam techniques.


The purpose of this investigation was to systematically review and assess the influence of the pharmaceutical industry on physician prescribing. MEDLINE, PubMed and WebSPIRS were searched using the following terms: sample closet, drug samples, sample medications, sample medication utilization, sample dispensing, drug sample availability, drug industry, legislation drug samples, drug promotion, prescribing behaviour and advertising. Two researchers independently evaluated and abstracted each article and compiled descriptive data. Of the 334 potentially relevant articles screened using the key words, 96 studies were considered for evaluation by reviewers. Of these, 40 studies addressed effects of sample availability on physician prescribing behaviour. Access to drug samples influenced prescribing decisions in most of the studies. Physicians were more likely to prescribe heavily advertised drugs when they had access to samples. At the same time, there was a decrease in the prescribing of over-the-counter, generic, and inexpensive drugs. Availability of samples promoted prescribing habits inconsistent with practice guidelines and in conflict with teaching and formulary policies. The reliance on samples tended to prompt the question, "What samples do we have?" rather than, "Which drug is best for the patient?"

 Key words: Drug samples, pharmaceutical industry, prescribing behavior, systematic review.


Given a combination of unprotected and dedicated edge-disjoint path (1+1) protected connection requests and a finite set of fiber types, we consider the problem of allocating fibers on the links of a WDM network at minimum cost, such that all connection requests can be simultaneously realized. Each fiber type, is characterized by its capacity and its cost per unit length, where costs reflect an economy of scale. It is known that a solution induced by "simply" routing each unprotected (respectively 1+1 protected) connection along the shortest path (respectively shortest pair of edge-disjoint paths) minimizes the total wavelength mileage, but may not minimize the total fiber cost. In this paper, we quantify the increase in fiber cost due to shortest path routing. In particular, we prove that the total cost of a shortest path based solution is guaranteed to lie within a certain factor of the minimum possible cost. This leads also to the fact that shortest path routing is asymptotically cost-optimal for a large total number of connection requests. Furthermore, for sparse topologies, e.g., the ring, the ShuffleNet and the mesh(-torus), we show that shortest path routing is asymptotically cost-optimal in large-scale networks supporting all-to-all communication. En route, we prove that by shortest path routing we obtain a provably optimal solution to the linear programming (LP-) relaxation of the problem. We have thus presented a provably good upper bound and a lower bound on the total fiber cost, that can be computed in polynomial-time. These bounds can be used as benchmarks against which heuristic approaches are compared


In this paper, an ensemble 2D bipolar Monte Carlo simulator is employed for the study of static characteristics, high-frequency response and noise behaviour in a 0.3 µm gate-length n-MOSFET in common source configuration. Short-channel effects, such as velocity overshoot in the pinch-off region, together with the appearance of hot electrons at the drain end of the channel are observed in the static characteristics. Admittance parameters and the small-signal equivalent circuit have been calculated in order to characterize the dynamic response of the device. The use of a bipolar simulator allows one to study the dynamics of both types of carriers simultaneously. While the static results are dominated by the electron transport, the contribution of holes mainly affects the drain-substrate capacitive coupling. The noise behaviour of the simulated MOSFET is also studied (up to 40 GHz) by means of different parameters, such as the spectral densities of the current fluctuations at the drain and gate terminals (and their cross-correlation), normalized α, β and C parameters and NFmin . In the saturation regime, due to the presence of hot carriers, an increase in drain and gate noise with respect to the long-channel prediction has been found. Moreover, a stronger correlation between drain and gate noise is observed, especially at low drain current. Induced gate noise is found to play a crucial role in the determination of NFmin at high drain currents.


A new tricyclic π-conjugated system, cyclopent[a]azulen-3(H)-one, was prepared by flash vacuum pyrolysis on the final step. All proton signals of this molecule were observed at higher magnetic resonance field than expected in terms of induced paramagnetic ring current in the periphery of this molecule.


Checklist usage can increase performance in complex, high-risk domains. While paper checklists are valuable, they are static, slow to access, and show both too much and too little information. We introduce Dynamic Procedure Aids to address four key problems in checklist usage: ready access to aids, rapid assimilation of content, professional acceptance, and limited attention. To understand their efficacy for crisis response, we created the dpAid software system. Its design arose through a multi-year participation in medical crisis response training featuring realistic team simulations. A study comparing Dynamic Procedure Aids, paper, and no aid, found that participants with Dynamic Procedure Aids performed significantly better than with paper or no aid. This study introduces the narrative simulation paradigm for comparatively assessing expert procedural performance through a score-and-correct approach.


We investigate the decays of the excited (bq[over ¯]) mesons as probes of the short-distance structure of the weak ΔB=1 transitions. These states are unstable under the electromagnetic or strong interactions, although their widths are typically suppressed by phase space. Compared to the pseudoscalar B meson, the purely leptonic decays of the vector B^{*} are not chirally suppressed and are sensitive to different combinations of the underlying weak effective operators. An interesting example is B_{s}^{*}→ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-}, which has a rate that can be accurately predicted in the standard model. The branching fraction is B∼10^{-11}, irrespective of the lepton flavor and where the main uncertainty stems from the unmeasured and theoretically not well known B_{s}^{*} width. We discuss the prospects for producing this decay mode at the LHC and explore the possibility of measuring the B_{s}^{*}→ℓℓ amplitude, instead, through scattering experiments at the B_{s}^{*} resonance peak.


The aberrant regulation of protein expression and function can drastically alter cellular physiology and lead to numerous pathophysiological conditions such as cancer, inflammatory diseases, and neurodegeneration. The steady-state expression levels of endogenous proteins are controlled by a balance of de novo synthesis rates and degradation rates. Moreover, the levels of activated proteins in signaling cascades can be further modulated by a variety of posttranslational modifications and protein–protein interactions. The field of targeted protein degradation is an emerging area for drug discovery in which small molecules are used to recruit E3 ubiquitin ligases to catalyze the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of disease-causing target proteins by the proteasome in both a dose- and time-dependent manner. Traditional approaches for quantifying protein level changes in cells, such as Western blots, are typically low throughput with limited quantification, making it hard to drive the rapid development of therapeutics that induce selective, rapid, and sustained protein degradation. In the last decade, a number of techniques and technologies have emerged that have helped to accelerate targeted protein degradation drug discovery efforts, including the use of fluorescent protein fusions and reporter tags, flow cytometry, time-resolved fluorescence energy transfer (TR-FRET), and split luciferase systems. Here we discuss the advantages and disadvantages associated with these technologies and their application to the development and optimization of degraders as therapeutics.


Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CDLS) is a relatively common multiple congenital anomaly/mental retardation disorder with an unknown genetic and molecular pathogenesis. The essential features of this developmental malformation syndrome are retardation in growth, developmental delay, various structural limb abnormalities, and distinctive facial features. Most cases are sporadic and are thought to result from a new dominant mutation. Consequently, hypotheses regarding the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the two distinct phenotypes, classic and mild, are purely speculative. The recent discovery of molecular techniques and identification of the NIPBL gene has allowed etiologic diagnosis of this disorder. In this article, we describe a patient with CDLS in whom conventional cytogenetics, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and NIPBL gene mutation analysis determined an etiologic diagnosis, providing precise genetic counseling and facilitated the family to make an evidence-based decision for conception and also alleviated the extreme degree of anxiety associated with the thought of having a second child in this set of circumstances.


Pattern of morbidity and mortality in children in a hospital setting is essential because it serves as a guide to what happens in the larger society. By these findings, health facilities could be modified and improved upon for better management of those cases. To document the pattern of morbidity and mortality in children's ward of Amaku General Hospital Awka (AGHA) Anambra State, the hospital records of children aged above one month to 18 years admitted to the children's ward of AGHA from 1st January 2007 to 31st December 2008 were retrieved and reviewed. Of the 491 patients admitted during the period, 400 patients met the criteria for the study. The youngest child was 7 weeks old and the oldest 18 years. The commonest causes of admission were severe malaria (21.75%), Gastroenteritis (15.50%), febrile convulsion (14.75%), pneumonia (13.75%) andHIV/AIDS (10%). The commonest causes of death were severe malaria with anemic heart failure (30.61%), Gastroenteritis with severe dehydration (20.41%), pneumonia (16.33%) and HIV/AIDS (12.25%). Among the deaths, infancy period was mostly affected (36.74%). Having seen the pattern of morbidity and mortality in our area to be infection related, we recommend to government and society the improvement in our environmental sanitation, sustained health education, reducing poverty while promoting routine immunization, growth monitoring, Breastfeeding of our children and introduction of new vaccines. Keywords : Pattern, morbidity, mortality, children's ward, Awka


My dissertation aims at constructing an environmental ethics theory based on environmental aesthetics in order to advocate and promote environmentally sustainable practices, policies, and lifestyles. I attempt to construct an integrated environmental aesthetics in order to inspire people's feelings of love towards nature and motivate them to protect it.  In order to achieve this goal, I first examine the philosophical understanding and aesthetic appreciation of nature from philosophical traditions of China, which have an impact on the general public's attitude towards nature. in chapter one of my dissertation, I point out that nature is viewed as an organic system which is always in a self-generating process of production and reproduction of life. the metaphysical foundation for this perspective of nature is ch'i. Therefore the aesthetic appreciation of nature in China is also the aesthetic appreciation of ch'i. with regard to the concept of ch'i, I focus on the following three questions: (1) what are the objective and aesthetic features of ch'i? (2) How do the Chinese appreciate aesthetic features of ch'i? (3) Why the objective features of ch'i are regarded as the objects of aesthetic appreciation? I argue that the Chinese appreciate the aesthetic features of ch'i by using intellectual intuition and that empathy is the reason why the objective features of ch'i are considered to be aesthetic features. in Chapter 2, I explain in detail the two aesthetic categories for aesthetic appreciation of nature in two major philosophical schools in China: emptiness and creativity. in Chapter 3, I examine the philosophical foundations for aesthetic appreciation of nature in the West. I first investigate the influence of traditional Western philosophy on the perceptions of nature. I argue that traditional Western philosophical thinking doesn't support aesthetic appreciation of nature. I point out that aesthetic appreciation of nature started from eighteenth century in the West. I examine Kant's aesthetic categories of beauty and sublime in his appreciation of nature. in contemporary world, I focus on the Allen Carlson's positive aesthetics and Arnold Berleant's engagement model to appreciate the beauty of environment. in Chapter 4, I evaluate the theories of aesthetic appreciation of nature in the West and China and attempt to construct an integrated theory of aesthetic appreciation of nature. the key point of this theory is to establish a caring relationship with nature based on aesthetic appreciation of nature and active participation in the beauty of it. This relationship will motivate people to protect nature and also contribute to human happiness.


Background: How the physical-education teachers use IT (barriers & solutions) of Ahwaz schools based on physical-education teachers' attitudes. MethodsThe method of this research is descriptive method & for collecting the data are used survey data. The statistical population included all physical-education teachers in 4 area of Ahwaz, that worked formal and tuition and contracted in 2011-2012 in primary, guiding & high schools & they were about 437 persons (256 female & 181 male) in first area there were 103 persons, second are 123 persons, third area 119 persons & in fourth are were 94,based on Morgan sampling table, 204 persons were selected as statistical sample (120 female & male) & used cluster random sampling & the accumulating data were questionnaires which included 38 questions that studied on the methods of IT usages in physical-education teachers in Ahwaz in three gamut; potential, obstacles & solutions. For this designed 5-familiar questions & 6questions about their thoughts to the IT & 10 questions about their level of IT usages.For analyzing the data more than using statistical indexes such as; frequency, percentage, standard deviation were used single sample ttest & Pearson coefficient correlation test. Results The methods of increasing IT usage of men teachers in Ahwaz schools were; service education 4.720, computer installation 4.676, high speed internet installation 4.661 and encouraging teachers 4.622, increasing special fund 4.593 & annual competition 4.464 strategies to increasing utilization in Ahwaz schools from physical-education women teachers points of views; holding classes when they trained 4.775, computer installation 4.691, increasing special fund 4..633, encouraging teachers 4.625 & annual competition 4.60. Conclusions Holding services education, computer installation, high speed internet installation, encouraging teachers, increasing special fund & annual competition. The strategies in solving the issues were; holding service education, computer installation, high speed internet installation & encouraging teachers.


Numbers have long been associated with statecraft. In bureaucratic processes of accounting, regulation was effected by forming centres of calculation. This paper suggests that contemporary post-bureaucratic regimes are evolving new forms of accounting, in which the centre inserts itself into individual sites to exercise authority. This 'intimate accounting' involves technologies of transparency through which individual sites such as schools are required to declare intimate information publicly. In turn, the public, armed with information, is exhorted to become informed and to exercise influence on institutions to excel and to hold them to account. Using the case of Australia's 'Education Revolution', this paper describes the processes of intimate accounting. It then explores the efforts to resist, subvert and undo such calculations. Finally, it speculates on why these calculations have continued to appear robust in the face of opposition and what would need to be done to escape or resist such calculations.
Keywords: Sociology of Numbers; Education Policy and Numbers; Accountability


Drawing principles, or aesthetics, are important in graph drawing. They are used as criteria for algorithm design and for quality evaluation. Current aesthetics are described as visual properties that a drawing is required to have to be visually pleasing. However, most of these aesthetics are originally proposed without consideration of graph structure information. Therefore their ability in visually revealing graph structural features are not guaranteed and indeed mixed results have been reported in the literature regarding their impact on user graph comprehension. In this paper, we propose to derive aesthetics based on graph internal structural features. Further, graphs are often evaluated based on controlled experiments with simple perception tasks to avoid possible confounding factors caused by complex tasks. This leaves their value in supporting complex tasks unevaluated. To fill this gap, we also discuss the possibility of applying evaluation methodologies used in the Cognitive Load Theory research for graph evaluation.


With the growing size of enterprise development, more and more companies need to prepare consolidated statements to reflect the Group's financial position and operating results. When the parent company and its subsidiaries or affiliates and subsidiaries increasingly complex business when the preparation of consolidated statements to the parent company has also brought more difficulties and problems. In particular, impairment of assets consolidated statements of issues will be on the authenticity of the whole enterprise group's assets and profits of the real significant impact, if the improper accounting treatment may lead to distortion of accounting information, the disclosure of accounting data will seriously affect the interests of minority shareholders. This paper suggests the assets of the consolidated statements of impairment of re-accounting, but also a true reflection of the financial position and better protection of minority shareholders rights and interests.


Background. Provisional side branch (SB) stenting strategy is the default approach for the majority of bifurcation lesions, but outcomes of SB is suboptimal. Though drug coated balloon (DCB) improving SB outcomes attracts an increasing attention, sequence of DCB hasn't yet been determined. We presented a novel hybrid strategy of DCB and stent for bifurcation lesions. Methods. With lesion preparation, DCB was persistently inflated in SB kissing with main branch (MB) stent deployment and balloon post-dilation of the bifurcation core. Proximal optimization technique was performed strictly not exceeding the bifurcation. Procedural and clinical adverse events were evaluated. Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) angina classification was assessed at baseline and clinical follow-up. Results. Fourteen patients undergoing the hybrid technique from August 2020 to July 2021 were enrolled. The technique was successfully performed in all patients without rewiring or SB compromise. Minimal lumen diameter of SB increased from 0.60 ± 0.40 mm to 2.1 ± 0.2 mm while the percent stenosis decreased from 72.4 ± 17.9% to 19.6 ± 4.7%. In addition, intravascular ultrasound indicated comparable stent symmetry index and incomplete stent apposition between proximal and distal segments of stent. No further intervention was performed, and mean fractional flow reserve of SB (n = 12) was 0.88 ± 0.05. No major adverse cardiac events was noted in hospital and 12-month follow up. The mean CCS angina score was reduced by 84% (2.2 vs 0.4, p < .001). Conclusion. The hybrid strategy facilitates treatment of DCB and stent for bifurcation lesions, which appears to be feasible and acceptable in a short-term follow-up.


This work comprises the investigation of four different biosynthesis gene clusters from Xenorhabdus. Xenorhabdus is an entomopathogenic bacterium that lives in mutualistic symbiosis with its Steinernema nematode host and together they infect and kill insect larvae. Xenorhabdus is well known for the production of so-called specialised metabolites and many of these compounds are synthesised by non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs) or NRPS-polyketide synthase (PKS)-hybrids. These enzymes are organised in a modular manner and produce structurally very diverse molecules, often with the help of modifying domains and tailoring enzymes. In general, the genes involved in the biosynthesis are organised in so-called biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) in the genome of the producing strain. Exchanging the native promoter with an inducible promoter, e.g. PBAD, allows the targeted activation of the BGC and in turn the analysis of the biosynthesis product via LC-MS analysis. The first BGC investigated in this work is responsible for the biosynthesis of xenofuranones. Based on gene deletions, this work shows that the NRPS-like enzyme XfsA produces a carboxylated furanone intermediate which is subsequently decarboxylated by XfsB to yield xenofuranone B. The next step in xenofuranone biosynthesis is the O-methylation of xenofuranone B to yield xenofuranone A. A comparative proteomics approach allowed the identification of four methyltransferase candidates and subsequent gene deletions confirmed one of the candidates to be responsible for methylation of xenofuranone B. The proteome analysis was based on the comparison of X. szentirmaii WT and X. szentirmaii Δhfq because distinct levels of the methylated xenofuranone A were observed when the xfs BGC was activated in either WT or Δhfq strain. Hfq is a global transcriptional regulator whose deletion is associated with the down regulation of natural product biosynthesis in Xenorhabdus. The strong PBAD activation of the xfs BGC also allowed the detection of two novel xenofuranone derivatives which arise from incorporation of one 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvic acid as first or second building block, respectively. PBAD based activation of the second BGC addressed in this work lead to the detection of a novel metabolite and compound purification allowed NMR-based structure elucidation. The molecule exhibits two pyrrolizidine moieties and was named pyrrolizwilline (pyrrolizidine + twin (German: "Zwilling")). The BGC comprises seven genes and single gene deletions as well as heterologous expression in E. coli and NRPS engineering were conducted to investigate the biosynthesis. The first two genes xhpA and xhpB encode a bimodular NRPS and a monooxygenase which synthesise a pyrrolizixenamide-like structure, similar to PxaA and PxaB in pyrrolizixenamide biosynthesis. It is suggested that the acyl side chain incorporated by XhpA is removed by the α,β-hydrolase XhpG. The keto function is then reduced by two subsequent two electron reductions catalysed by XhpC and XhpD. One of these two reduced pyrrolizidine units most likely is extended with glyoxalate prior to non-enzymatic dimerisation with the second pyrrolizidine moiety. To finally yield pyrrolizwilline, L-valine is incorporated, probably by the free-standing condensation domain XhpF. The third BGC investigated is responsible for the production of a tripeptide composed of β-D-homoserine, α-hydroxyglycine and L-valine and is referred to as glyoxpeptide. This work demonstrates that the previously observed glyoxpeptide derivative is derived from glycerol present in the culture medium. Furthermore, this work shows that the monooxygenase domain, which is found in an unusual position between motifs A8 and A9 within the adenylation domain, is responsible for the α-hydroxylation of glycine. It is suggested that the α-hydroxylation of glycine renders the tripeptide prone to hydrolysis via hemiacetal formation. Hence, the XgsC_MonoOx domain might be an interesting candidate for further NRPS engineering. The fourth BGC addressed is responsible for the production of xildivalines and this work describes two additional derivatives which are detected only when the promoter is exchanged and activated in the X. hominickii WT strain but not in X. hominickii Δhfq. Deletion of the methyltransferase encoding gene xisE results in the production of non-methylated xildivalines. It remains to be determined when the N-methylation of L-valine takes place. It is discussed that the methyltransferase could act on the NRPS released product but also during the assembly. The peptide deformylase is not involved in the proposed biosynthesis as xildivaline production is detected in a ΔxisD strain. The PKS XisB features two adjacent, so-called tandem T domains. The inactivation of the first or the second T domain by point mutation causes decreased production titres of detected xildivalines in the respective mutant strain when compared to the wild type.


Temperature dependent elastic constants C ij (T) of Cu 60 Zr 30 Ti 10 bulk metallic glass (BMG) have been studied using MHz frequency range electromagnetic acoustic resonance (EMAR) from 4.5 to 300 K. At ambient temperature, the BMG shows low shear/bulk modulus ratio (or equivalently high Poisson ratio) compared with that of corresponding crystalline state dues to the dense random packed glassy structure. Analysis of C,j(T) based on the Einstein type lattice vibration model revealed the notable softening in transverse mode acoustic phonons. This unusual vibrational property suggests the existence of liquid like weakly bonded region in the BMG.


The infective capacity of three bacteria commonly encountered during a study of natural middle ear disease in a rat colony has been determined by direct intra-aural injection in young rats. One week after the introduction of B. actinoides 75 per cent of the rats showed a purulent exudate in the injected middle ear cavity and 65 per cent yielded pure cultures of the organism. With hemolytic and non-hemolytic streptococci 75 per cent showed a serous or mucoid exudate and 12 per cent yielded the organism in culture. With a diphtheroid 18 per cent showed a gross reaction in the middle ear which was sterile in every case. The experimental findings are discussed in relation to the etiology of middle ear disease.


Abstract Recent observations indicate that ice pellets and snow pellets are present in most convective clouds in the Central United States by the time these clouds reach top temperatures of −10C. The attendant circumstances raise the question of whether the ice plays an active role in rain development in these clouds or whether its presence is purely incidental. The ice pellets are usually preceded by the development of liquid precipitation particles large enough to produce rain by coalescence with cloud droplets. The pellet concentrations are not related to ground-level ice nuclei concentrations. Apparently the pellets form as a result of freezing of the drops, contrary to most laboratory studies of droplet freezing. Observations can be brought into harmony by invoking the droplet splintering measurements of Mason and Maybank. The presence of numerous small ice particles in these clouds at temperatures warmer than −10C casts doubt upon the value of seeding with ice nuclei for rain inducement.


Over the last decade we have seen a notable shift in the urban sociology literature from discourses of division to discourses of difference. This shift has opened up new ways of understanding the complexities of city life and the formation of heterogeneous subjectivities and identities in the spaces of the city. There has been, we argue, a worrying tendency in this process to lose an analysis of the workings of power. While early Marxist, feminist and race/ethnicity debates were firmly located within a framework which highlighted power, post-structuralist debates have operated with a more fluid notion of power, which at times has become so fluid as to evaporate into thin air. Our intention here is to re-emphasise the significance of power while holding on to the concept of difference. We do this by using the notion of power networks that operate at different temporal and spatial scales. These give the city contrasting spatialities and temporalities that overlap one another. The city is seen as a palimpsest of time-space networks that capture some of the 'presence of difference' as well as suggesting its absences. These time-space networks of power are considered in the material, perceived and imaginary realms in relation to bodies, interests and symbols.


In this research the Authors have studied the action of scopolamine on the memorization of the explorative behavior of the mice. They gave scopolamine before each of the 2 explorations made at an interval of 24 h one from the other. The results obtained show that in these experimental conditions, scopolamine cancels the short-time memory in a more complete fashion compared to the only administration before the second exploration. The Authors advance the hypothesis that this effect of scopolamine can be in relationship to its action on the cholinergic system.


Over the past three decades, considerable progress has been made in con trolling levels of several outdoor air pollutants with well-established effects on human health (e.g., sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and lead). However, concern remains about the potential human health impacts of two air pollutants, ozone (O 3 ) and fine particulate matter (PM 2 5 ), for which much less progress has been made. Both O 3 and PM 2.5 derive largely from fossil fuel combustion, and both have been shown to have human health ef fects at levels frequently observed in outdoor air. In the case of O 3 , controlled chamber ex periments have shown that brief, ambient-level exposures cause acute, reversible drops in lung volumes, increases in nonspecific bronchial responsiveness, and pulmonary inflam mation. Epidemiology studies have confirmed many of these findings and further have demonstrated associations with asthma exacerbations, emergency room visits, hospital ad missions, and deaths. Populations most at risk include children and adults who are active outdoors, especially those with asthma. PM 2.5 is a heterogeneous mixture of suspended solid and liquid particles with widely varying diameters and compositions. The evidence for health effects of PM 2.5 derives largely from epidemiological studies that have reported associations with both acute and chronic mortality in urban areas. Other effects associated with ambient particulate matter include increases in hospitalizations and respiratory symptoms and decreases in lung function. Populations at greatest risk of PM 2.5 effects in clude the elderly and those with preexisting cardiopulmonary disease. Important ques tions remain regarding PM health effects, including the nature of the PM component(s) responsible, the biological mechanism(s) involved, and the host factors that promote greater susceptibility; these are currently areas of active research.


Knowing the infection fatality rate (IFR) of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 infections is essential for the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data through April 20, 2020, we fit a statistical model to COVID-19 case fatality rates over time at the US county level to estimate the COVID-19 IFR among symptomatic cases (IFR-S) as time goes to infinity. The IFR-S in the US was estimated to be 1.3% (95% central credible interval: 0.6% to 2.1%). County-specific rates varied from 0.5% to 3.6%. The overall IFR for COVID-19 should be lower when we account for cases that remain and recover without symptoms. When used with other estimating approaches, our model and our estimates can help disease and policy modelers to obtain more accurate predictions for the epidemiology of the disease and the impact of alternative policy levers to contain this pandemic. The model could also be used with future epidemics to get an early sense of the magnitude of symptomatic infection at the population-level before more direct estimates are available. Substantial variation across patient demographics likely exists and should be the focus of future studies. [Editor's Note: This Fast Track Ahead Of Print article is the accepted version of the peer-reviewed manuscript. The final edited version will appear in an upcoming issue of Health Affairs.].


Recent years, valuation of company become more demanded rapidly. Globalization and financial market have favored business growth. Investment becoming more interesting, mergers and acquisition becoming phenomenon. Continued business flow in market nowadays is followed by demand to investment from stocks, loan or the other capital instrument. The goal of company valuation is to give owner, potential buyers, stakeholders and other interested buyer the measurement of a company value. PT. Adaro Energy is the biggest coal producer in Indonesia Unfortunately coal price start decreases in 2011. The current weak coal price is mainly due to undisciplined supply growth on the back of excess liquidity and overinvestment made in the recent years. Supply contraction is slowly underway but the market has not yet rebalanced. So author wants to find out the fair value of PT Adaro Energy Tbk, using valuation Discounted Cash Flow method using PT Adaro Energy Tbk, historical financial statement, Type of this research are data time series to analyze and evaluate time performance over comparison of current to past performance, using ratios, enables analysts to assess the firm's progress of PT. Adaro Energy Tbk, step by step to get the fair value of PT Adaro Energy. In this research the result would be differentiate into three scenarios based on growth using CAGR as the growth assumption , into pessimistic , moderate (most likely) and optimistic. From analysis that already conducted the fair value of PT Adaro Energy Tbk, are . For the Growth by 6.7% (pessimistic scenario), the firm value is $ 9,305 million, where its equity value is $ 8,154 million. For the Growth by 14.6% (moderate scenario), the firm value is $ 10,008 million, where its equity value is $ 8,857 million.For the Growth by 21% (optimistic scenario), the firm value is $ 10,681 million, where its equity value is $ 9,530 million. Keywords: Social Media, Twitter, Fulfillment of information needs.


NMR is one of the most powerful techniques for ligand-biomolecule interaction studies and drug screening and design. There are several methods that are strongly used, including chemical shift perturbation (CSP), saturation transfer difference (STD) and diffusion coefficients. However, one of the most useful and easy to apply NMR parameters in medicinal chemistry studies is the spin-lattice relaxation data, which can be employed to investigate the strength and topology of intermolecular interactions, such as drug-drug, drug-protein, drug-DNA, drug-micelle (or vesicle) and biomolecule-biomolecule interactions. This review deals with the newest applications of T(1) in different studies of interest for drug design and evaluation.


A child with congestive heart failure was found to have a paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia (VT) without structural heart disease. This wide QRS tachycardia had an atrioventricular dissociation and a QRS pattern of right bundle branch block and left axis deviation. The tachycardia did not respond to lidocaine or procainamide but instantly responded to verapamil therapy. This VT could be initiated or terminated by either atrial or ventricular pacing during electrophysiologic study. The endocardial biopsy showed that there was myocardial hypertrophy with mild degree of interstitial fibrosis. This entity of ventricular tachycardia often occurs in young people with no overt heart disease but with subclinical endomyocardial changes.


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

Breast Cancer (BC) is the major prevalent cancer in women in the United States and Puerto Rico with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), often resulting in death. Recent studies have shown that the Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is a critical signaling cascade that drives MBC. We recently reported that a combined diet of grape polyphenols (resveratrol, quercetin and catechin: RQC) at equimolar concentration is effective at inhibition of mammary tumor growth and metastasis to lung and bones in nude mice. The objective of this study is to investigate a role for RQC in prevention of MBC via inhibition of the Akt/AMPK/mTOR pathway. We found that RQC at 5 μM each inhibits Akt and p70S6 kinase (downstream effector of mTOR) activities in a metastatic variant of the MDA-MB-435 cell line and MDA-MB-231 human BC cells. RQC at 5 μM demonstrated a 2-fold activation of adenosine monophophate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an endogenous inhibitor of mTOR that acts opposite to Akt. To determine the contribution of individual resveratrol, quercetin, and catechin to the effect of combined RQC on mTOR signaling, MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with RQC at 1, 3 and 9 μM individually and in combination. Results show that at 1 μM, individual or combined RQC did not increase AMPK activity, while at 3 μM, only Quercetin increased AMPK activity. Individual compounds at 1 μM did not affect Akt activity, while combined RQC decreased Akt activity by 20%. At 3 μM, Akt activity is downregulated by all compounds individually and in combination with combined RQC exerting a higher inhibitory effect on Akt activity than individual compounds. In general, the combination of RQC was more efficient at inhibition of the Akt/mTOR pathway than individual compounds. Thus, RQC has the potential to be used alone or in combination with other cancer therapeutics to impede progressive BC. This study was sponsored by the Department of Defense/Breast Cancer Research Program award W81XWH-07-1-0330 to SD and the U54 grant No. CA-096297 to UPR Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2246. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2246


OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of interventions promoting placental transfusion at delivery (delayed cord clamping or umbilical cord milking) compared with early cord clamping on outcomes among premature neonates of less than 32 weeks of gestation. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search was conducted of PubMed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases (January 1965 to December 2013) for articles relating to placental transfusion strategies in very preterm neonates. METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION: Literature searches returned 369 articles with 82 considered in full. We only included data from studies with an average gestational age of less than 32 weeks of gestation enrolled in randomized trials of enhanced placental–fetal transfusion interventions (delayed cord clamping or umbilical cord milking) compared with early cord clamping. TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS: We identified 12 eligible studies describing a total of 531 neonates with an average gestation of 28 weeks. Benefits of greater placental transfusion were decreased mortality (eight studies, risk ratio 0.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.19–0.95, 3.4% compared with 9.3%, P=.04), lower incidence of blood transfusions (six studies, risk ratio 0.75, 95% CI 0.63–0.92, 49.3% compared with 66%, P<.01), and lower incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage (nine studies, risk ratio 0.62, 95% CI 0.43–0.91, 16.7% compared with 27.3%, P=.01). There was a weighted mean difference of −1.14 blood transfusions (six studies, 95% CI –2.01–0.27, P<.01) and a 3.24-mmHg increase in blood pressure at 4 hours of life (four studies, 95% CI 1.76–4.72, P<.01). No differences were observed between the groups across all available safety measures (5-minute Apgar scores, admission temperature, incidence of delivery room intubation, peak serum bilirubin levels). CONCLUSIONS: Results of this meta-analysis suggest that enhanced placental transfusion (delayed umbilical cord clamping or umbilical cord milking) at birth provides better neonatal outcomes than does early cord clamping, most notably reductions in overall mortality, lower risk of intraventricular hemorrhage, and decreased blood transfusion incidence. The optimal umbilical cord clamping practice among neonates requiring immediate resuscitation remains uncertain.


Introduction and Aim: IL-6, IL-11, leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and cardiotrophin-like cytokine (CLC) belong to the family of glycoprotein 130 (gp130)-type cytokines. These cytokines are aggregated in the same family because they all use gp130 as a signal transducer. Recently, it was demonstrated that IL-6 is expressed in fetal pulmonary epithelium and enhances lung branching. Thus, our aim was to clarify the role of IL-11, LIF and CLC during fetal lung development. Methods: Fetal rat lungs were harvested at 13.5 days post-conception and cultured during 4 days with increasing doses of IL-11 (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, 100 ng/ml), LIF (0, 0.4, 4, 20, 40 ng/ml) and CLC (0, 0.0003, 0.003, 0.03, 0.3, 3, 30 nmol). LIF inhibition studies were also performed using neutralising antibodies. Daily pictures were made and the total number of peripheral airway buds and epithelial perimeter was determined in all lung explants. The results were expressed as day 4/day 0 ratio. Results: A total of 226 fetal lungs were dissected. IL-11 supplementation induced no significant effect on lung growth, whereas LIF and CLC supplementation significantly decreased, in a dose-dependent way, the branching and epithelial perimeter. In addition, the inhibition of LIF action increased the measured parameters. Conclusions: Although these cytokines share a common signal transducer, these findings suggest specific biological activities on lung development. This specificity can represent a regulatory mechanism of lung morphogenesis, intrinsic to this family, in order to achieve the correct lung growth.


This systematic review analyzes studies on burnout in elite athletes and assesses the association between burnout and other psychological constructs for this group. The analysis of the studies is a descriptive semiquantitative review. The following databases were searched for studies published up to march 2016: DialNet, Lilacs, Portal CAPES, PsycNet, PubMed/Medline, Redalyc, SciELO, Scopus, SportDiscus, and Web of Science. The following descriptors were used: burnout, athletes, and elite (languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish). Seventy-two articles were included in this review. The results indicate a negative correlation between burnout and the self-determined motivation index, intrinsic motivation, identified regulation, autonomy, competence, relatedness, self-oriented perfectionism, parental expectations, personal standards, and harmonious passion. In addition, positive correlations were indicated between burnout and amotivation, socially prescribed perfectionism, and concern over mistakes. In conclusion, burnout in elite athletes is a variable different associated with various psychological constructs that are protective or catalyzing of burnout in this population.


Boar studs are often offered new technologies including several CASA (computer-assisted semen analysis) systems. However, independent information to assist their purchase decisions is not available. The systems accuracy and repeatability variation because of different factors can be evaluated through duplicate testing of semen samples and comparison of the results according to WHO standards for humans. This primary analysis and a thorough economic cost benefit evaluation will help to decide whether the purchase of a CASA system will be profitable for a boar stud. Our experience of implementing several CASA systems in the cooperative Dutch Artificial Insemination (AI) centres is used as a base for this discussion.


This paper will address the applicability of environmental principles in cases of syndrome of "burnout". For this, it will analyze the concepts of general environment and its categories, highlighting the working environment in which the characteristics of its healthiness will be appointed. They will be treated also the concepts of degradation of environmental quality and pollution, and how they occur in the middle working environment, emphasizing the protection of quality of life and health of workers. So relate the "burnout" syndrome as the middle work environment degradation factor, and discussed the consequences of this framework. Finally, recent decisions will be presented the Superior Labor Court (TST) about this psychological pathology.


In the paper, a novel problem-independent parallel realisation of the simulated annealing (SA) algorithm is proposed. By employing speculative computation, concurrency is introduced into the inherently sequential algorithm. This is achieved by predicting the acceptance of each generated move before the move is evaluated. Based on this prediction, subsequent moves can be proposed and evaluated before decisions on whether to accept or reject preceeding moves are made. To preserve the sequential decision nature of SA, all moves subsequent to a prediction that is eventually proved wrong are discarded. A simple and effective prediction mechanism using previous move statistics is developed. Efficient realisation of the parallel SA algorithm on a ring multiprocessor architecture is described. Analytical and simulation performance results are presented. These results indicate that the authors' parallel SA is best implemented on a coarse to medium grain multiprocessor system. Factors affecting performance in actual implementations are also discussed.


We study the fluency map optimization problem in Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy from a cooperative game theory point of view. We consider the cancerous and healthy organs in a patient's body as players of a game, where cancerous organs seek to eliminate the cancerous cells and healthy organs seek to receive no harm. The goal is to balance the trade-offs between the utility of players by forming a grand coalition between them. We do so by proposing a methodology that solves a few convex optimization problems in order to transform the fluency map optimization problem into a bargaining game. To solve the bargaining game, we employ the concept of Nash Social Welfare (NSW) optimization due to the desirable efficiency and fairness properties of its outcomes. The proposed NSW optimization is convex and can be solved by powerful commercial solvers such as CPLEX. An additional advantage of the proposed approach is that it has a new control lever for the fluency map optimization, the so-called negotiation powers, which enables practitioners to put more emphasis on an organ by changing its negotiation power. To show the efficacy of our proposed methodology, we apply it to the TG-119 case and a liver case. We compare our proposed approach with a state-of-the-art approach through creating Dose Volume Histograms.