In this work, we study graph-based multi-arms bandit (MAB) problems aimed at optimizing actions on irregular and high-dimensional graphs. More formally, we consider a decision-maker that takes sequential actions over time and observes the experienced reward, defined as a function of a sparse graph signal. The goal is to optimize the action policy, which maximizes the reward experienced over time. The main challenges are represented by the system uncertainty (i.e., unknown parameters of the sparse graph signal model) and the high-dimensional search space. The uncertainty can be faced by online learning strategies that infer the system dynamics while taking the appropriate actions. However, the high-dimensionality makes online learning strategies highly inefficient. To overcome this limitation, we propose a novel graph-based MAB algorithm, which is data-efficient also in high-dimensional systems. The key intuition is to infer the nature of the graph processes by learning in the graph-spectral domain, and exploit this knowledge while optimizing the actions. In particular, we model the graph signal with a sparse dictionary-based representation and we propose an online sequential decision strategy that learns the parameters of the graph processes while optimizing the action strategy.


Computer simulations are employed to investigate the phase separation (demixing) phenomenon induced by interaction nonadditivity in binary complex plasmas with two different sized microparticles. The system firstly coarsens, and small particles start gathering and forming small clusters inside the large-particle phase, while there are no clear boundaries between two species. Next, sharp interfaces build up while the small-particle clusters merge into droplets and small droplets continue to merge into big ones. Finally, the two species completely separate from each other, and the small particles tend to form big droplets of nearly spherical shape, due to the surface tension.


Due to a turn toward to functional foods with improved nutritional value, rosehip could be an appropriate candidate to create formulations using a milk matrix. In the present study, the influence of bovine or almond milk fortification on the bioaccessibility and intestinal absorption of rosehip infusion phenolics, mainly catechin, were investigated by a combined method of an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion/Caco-2 cell culture model. The results indicated that bovine (IB) or almond milk (IA) fortification enhanced the retention of total phenolics (TPC; increase of 8.1% and 20.3% for IB and IA, respectively), while there was a decline in the total flavonoids (TFC; decrease of 64% and 17% for IB and IA, respectively) and antioxidant capacity measured by CUPRAC assay (decrease of 15% and 4% for IB and IA, respectively) throughout the gastrointestinal tract in comparison with the control sample (IC). Then, based on the cytotoxicity (SRB) assay, 1/5 times diluted digests were subjected to transepithelial transportation of Caco-2 cells. According to the results, the bovine milk matrix positively affected the transportation of phenolics across the epithelial cell layer. It could be concluded that it is possible to produce functional infusion drinks with improved stability, bioaccessibility, and absorption efficiency of rosehip phenolics in the formulations containing milk matrix.


The effect of aspartame on circadian rhythms of calcium and inorganic phosphorus levels was studied in rats. Acrophase delays in calcium rhythms and advances in inorganic phosphorus rhythms and alteration in mesor values in both rhythms were observed in aspartame-treated rats. However, no change in amplitude values was observed. Oral administration of aspartame leads to increased levels of aspartate in the brain, which could alter the characteristics of calcium and inorganic phosphorus rhythms, possibly by modulating transmission in several areas/nuclei in brain, including retinohypothalamic tract (RHT) and suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN).


Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) offers lots of applications in both commerce and recreation. With this, monitoring the operation status of UAVs is crucially important. In this work, we consider the task of tracking UAVs, providing rich information such as location and trajectory. To facilitate research on this topic, we propose a dataset, Anti-UAV, with more than 300 video pairs containing over 580k manually annotated bounding boxes. The releasing of such a large-scale dataset could be a useful initial step in research of tracking UAVs. Furthermore, the advancement of addressing research challenges in Anti-UAV can help the design of anti-UAV systems, leading to better surveillance of UAVs. Besides, a novel approach named dual-flow semantic consistency (DFSC) is proposed for UAV tracking. Modulated by the semantic flow across video sequences, the tracker learns more robust class-level semantic information and obtains more discriminative instance-level features. Experimental results demonstrate that Anti-UAV is very challenging, and the proposed method can effectively improve the tracker's performance. The Anti-UAV benchmark and the code of the proposed approach will be publicly available at https://github.com/ucas-vg/Anti-UAV.


In Epistemic injustice, Miranda Fricker makes a tremendous contribution to theorizing the intersection of social epistemology with theories of justice. Theories of justice often take as their object of assessment either interpersonal transactions (specific exchanges between persons) or particular institutions. They may also take a more comprehensive perspective in assessing systems of institutions. This systemic perspective may enable control of the cumulative effects of millions of individual transactions that cannot be controlled at the individual or institutional levels. This is true not only with respect to the overall distribution of such goods as income and wealth, but also with respect to the goods of testimonial and hermeneutical justice. Cognitive biases that may be difficult for even epistemically virtuous individuals to correct on their own may be more susceptible to correction if we focus on the principles that should govern our systems of testimonial gathering and assessment. Hence, while Fricker's focus on individual epistemic virtue is important, we also need to consider what epistemic justice as a virtue of social systems would require. My paper will indicate some directions forward on this front, focusing on the need for integration of diverse institutions and persons engaged in inquiry.


Chapter One: Asking for Clarification Language/Skills Asking for Clarification Repeating Information as a Question Correcting Mistakes WH-Questions for Clarification Confirming Numbers Chapter Two: Getting Started Language/Skills Greetings Introductions Conversation Openers Chapter Three: Keeping It Going Language/Skills Listener Expressions Avoiding Silence Giving Complete Answers Open Questions (three types) Suggestions Chapter Four: Ending a Conversation Language/Skills Pre-closing Phrases Closings Review of Chapters 1-4 Conversation Maze One Small Group Activity for Review of Conversational Strategies Chapter Five: Weekends Language/Skills Key Phrases Activities with go (go fishing) Other Activities Chapter Six: Weather Language/Skills Key Phrases Weather Expressions/Idioms Chapter Seven: Music Language/Skills Vocabulary Asking for an Opinion Giving an Opinion Chapter Eight: Explanations Language/Skills Explaining by: Classification Purpose Comparison and Contrast Structure Material Exemplification Origin Chapter Nine: Food Language/Skills Key Phrases for Talking About Food Vocabulary Idioms Chapter Ten: Reduced Forms Language/Skills Key Reduced Forms: wanna, gonna Vocabulary Review of Chapters 1-10 Review of Conversational Strategies Vocabulary and idioms Controlled and Communicative Exercises Chapter Eleven: Schools Language/Skills Vocabulary Idioms Key Cultural Information About Schools Chapter Twelve: Non-words Language/Skills Key Informal Conversational Expressions in English: uh-huh, uh-uh, uh-oh, O.K. Fillers Chapter Thirteen: People Language/Skills Key Positive and Negative Words for People: sweetheart, slob, good conversationalist Chapter Fourteen: Conversational Expressions Language/Skills Important Expressions which Cause Students Great Difficulties: anyway, by the way, so what, that reminds me Chapter Fifteen: Feelings Language/Skills Language for Explaining Emotions Likes and Dislikes Conversation Maze Two Small Group Activity for Review of Conversational Strategies and Vocabulary Chapter Sixteen: Storytelling Language/Skills Key Phrases for Telling a Story and Reacting to a Story: "This is a story about my grandfather." "And then what happened?" Time Phrases: First, Then, Finally, After that Chapter Seventeen: Life Language/Skills Words and Idioms for the Stages of Life: was born, got married, got divorced, died Chapter Eighteen: Work Language/Skills Key Vocabulary and idioms for Work Situations: hire, fire, promote, transfer, benefits Chapter Nineteen: Movies and TV Language/Skills Key Vocabulary and idioms for Discussing Movies and TV: director, scenery, documentary, horror Review of Chapters 11-20 Controlled and Communicative Exercises for Review of Final Ten Chapters Summary of Main Ideas of Text APPENDIX Notes for Instructors & Answer Key Helpful Hints for Instructor, Expansion Activities, Answers for Dialogues and Controlled Exercises


This report reviews alternative sources of revenue to support new infrastructure and other development projects for which municipal funds are not readily available. We review two such instruments: Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and Land Value Capture (LVC). We found more frequent use of TIF than LVC. TIF has largely been used to fund small-scale projects, often not exceeding one or two hundred million dollars in capital costs. We could find only two TIF implementations that aimed to generate over a billion dollars in TIF revenue, and those projects fell short of meeting the revenue targets. The evidence for TIF efficacy is mixed and depends, to some extent, on the type of methods used in the analysis. Some studies found the TIF districts reported higher rates of development and greater real estate price appreciation than comparable non-TIF districts. Other studies reached different conclusions. Three key elements were repeatedly found to contribute to TIF success. (1) Mixed land use developments often met their intended TIF objectives. (2) The timing of TIF implementation mattered; TIFs initiated during recessions met with limited success. (3) Smaller TIFs were more successful in meeting revenue targets than larger ones. We simulate a 30-year TIF implementation along the Sheppard East corridor in Toronto, the route for the Sheppard subway line that started operations in 2002, and offer insights for local and higher tiers of government interested in implementing TIF. Our analysis of the Sheppard East corridor found that the net present value of the simulated TIF revenue covered only a small portion of the capital costs of extending the subway line.


Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background: Indications for use of statins are common among patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Epidemiologic studies have suggested a possible association between statins and decreased risk of malignancies. We hypothesized that statin use has a protective effect on cancer mortality in patients with NAFLD. Methods: Participants with NAFLD in 8 rounds of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included in this study. Mortality data were obtained by linking the NHANES data to National Death Index. NAFLD was defined using the previously validated Hepatic Steatosis Index model. Results: A total of 10,821 participants with NAFLD were included and 23% were statin users (n=2523). Statin use was associated with a 43% lower risk of cancer mortality [hazard ratio (HR)=0.57, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.43-0.75, P<0.001] in multivariable analysis. Statin use under 1 year did not show a significant effect on cancer mortality (HR=0.72, 95% CI: 0.46-1.12), while statin use for 1 to 5 years decreased cancer mortality by 35% (HR=0.65, 95% CI: 0.42-0.99, P=0.46), and statin use >5 years decreased cancer mortality by 56% (HR=0.44, 95% CI: 0.29-0.66, P<0.001). Statin use was associated with a significant decrease in the risk of cancer mortality in NAFLD patients with both low and high risk of liver fibrosis (HR=0.55, 95% CI: 0.38-0.81; and HR=0.53, 95% CI: 0.31-0.89, respectively). Conclusion: Using a large US prospective cohort, we showed statin use is associated with a considerable decrease in cancer-related mortality among patients with NAFLD. These results are important for clinical decision making, as statin indications are prevalent among NAFLD patients, but many do not receive benefit in the event that the statin is discontinued due to liver test abnormalities.


Cosmology is nowadays one of the most active areas of research in fundamental science. We are going through a true revolution in the observations that are capable of providing crucial information about the origin and evolution of the universe. In the first years of the next millennium we will have, for the first time in the history of such an ancient science as cosmology, a precise knowledge about a handful of parameters that determine our standard cosmological model. This standard model is based on the inflationary paradigm, a period of exponential expansion in the early universe responsible for the large-scale homogeneity and flatness of our observable patch of the universe. A spectrum of density perturbations, seen in the microwave background as temperature anisotropies, could have been produced during inflation from quantum fluctuations that were stretched to cosmological size by the expansion, and later gave rise, via gravitational collapse, to the observed large–scale structure of clusters and superclusters of galaxies. Furthermore, the same theory predicts that all the matter and radiation in the universe today originated at the end of inflation from an explosive production of particles that could also have been the origin of the present baryon asymmetry, before the universe reached thermal equilibrium at a very large temperature. From there on, the universe cooled down as it expanded, in the way described by the standard hot Big Bang model. With the observations that will soon become available in the next millennium, we will be able to test the validity of the inflationary paradigm, and determine, with unprecedented accuracy, the parameters of a truly standard model of cosmology.


The coalescence of close binary systems with two compact objects (neutron stars and black holes) are considered to be promising sources of gravitational waves for the currently built laser interferometers. Here, I review the current Galactic coalescence estimates derived both theoretically and empirically. I discuss the uncertainties involved as well as ways of obtaining an upper limit to the coalescence rate of two neutron stars.


The most comprehensive book of its kind, BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL ETHICS FOR DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVES & ACCOUNTANTS, 8E combines explanatory text, cases, video sources and readings. Students explore the historical background behind corporate governance, behavior, compliance, risk management, and professional accounting. The book emphasizes how to develop an ethical corporate culture and make decisions that reflect organizational values, ethics and the expectations of stakeholders. Students see the ethical influences on company success and better understand their own professional codes and duties. They analyze the IFAC Code of Ethics and AICPA and CPAO codes as well as fundamental principles, independence, conflicts of interest, and risk assessment. They also examine the risks and opportunities of non-assurance areas, such as CSR, workplace ethics, fraud and white collar crime, bribery, and crisis management. More than 120 engaging cases help students and practitioners avoid errors.

Table of Contents:
1. Ethics Expectations.
2. Ethics & Governance Scandals.
3. Philosophers' Contributions.
4. Practical Ethical Decision Making.
5. Corporate Ethical Governance & Accountability.
6. Professional Accounting in the Public Interest.
7. Managing Ethics Risks & Opportunities.
8. Subprime Lending Fiasco -- Ethics Issues.


Abstract The bounded proper forcing axiom BPFA is the statement that for any family of ℵ1 many maximal antichains of a proper forcing notion, each of size ℵ1, there is a directed set meeting all these antichains. A regular cardinal κ is called ∑1-reflecting, if for any regular cardinal χ, for all formulas φ, "H(χ) ⊨ 'φ'" implies "∃δ < κ, H(δ) ⊨ 'φ'". We investigate several algebraic consequences of BPFA, and we show that the consistency strength of the bounded proper forcing axiom is exactly the existence of a ∑1-reflecting cardinal (which is less than the existence of a Mahlo cardinal). We also show that the question of the existence of isomorphisms between two structures can be reduced to the question of rigidity of a structure.


In Order and Structure I have two main goals. First, I argue that the grammar should be viewed as an incremental left-to-right structure building system, and that this solves a number of problems in constituent structure. Second, I reassess the relationship between linguistic knowledge and language processing, and argue that mental systems for grammar and processing can be viewed as identical. These two goals are closely related, because an incremental grammar is a necessary component of a unified grammar/processor.


Diabetes mellitus has become a global epidemic. With diabetes prevalence highest in old age groups and aging populations, it is the prevalence among the elderly, above all, where most dramatic increases can be expected. The present paper summarizes the age-related metabolic abnormalities resulting in diabetes mellitus, specifically the progressive decline in beta-cell function. In addition, insulin therapy in the elderly is described. Among the many different insulins and therapeutic algorithms, advantages and disadvantages pertaining to the elderly will be highlighted. Specifics in frequency, pathophysiology, and avoidance of severe hypoglycemia in the elderly are discussed.


The blackness and physical appearance of Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoises (Testudo graeca L.) are recorded in field populations. The inter-relationships between carapace and plastron length, fourth vertebral scute width and other morphometric characters are related to growth. The rear fontanelle is larger in males and the plastron length correspondingly smaller. The relationship between carapace length (y) in mm and body mass (x) in g is strongly allometric and given by y= 16.63 x0–34. The maximum carapace lengths recorded for male and female T. graeca graeca L. in NW. Africa are 151 and 198 mm, and for larger T. graeca ibera Pallas in W. Turkey and NE. Greece 208 and 218 mm, respectively. The growth annuli of epidermal scutes are deposited yearly until external growth ceases. The number is used to assess the age of wild animals. Tortoises can be full-grown by 19 years but some, especially slower growing ones, deposit further annuli. The biggest mean growth increments occur up to 7 years with the largest in individuals over the 5–12 year period. The proportion of immature tortoises, adult sex ratios, size and body mass structure, age distribution, annual recruitment and survivorship until full-grown, and abundance (sighting frequency) are compared in northern and southern range populations of NW. African T. g. graeca and S. Anatolian and SE. European (Thrace and Macedonia) ones of T. g. ibera. These are discussed in relation to other tortoise species.


Introduction: Onion (Allium cepa) is an important spice crop often grown outdoors in temperate climates as an annual crop because of its adaptability to varying weather conditions. It is an underground vegetable which varies in size colour, firmness and strength of flavour. Onion is often called "poor man's orange" because it is a good source of vitamins, particularly Vitamin A and C. It is also a rich source of minerals such as iron, thiamine, niacin and manganese contents. Onion is said to be very useful against heart diseases and many bacterial species including bacillus subtilis, salmoneva, and E. coli. This vegetable crop is highly perishable in its natural state after harvest resulting in huge postharvest losses during storage, transportation and marketing in the production season and extreme scarcity in the off-season which can be checked by drying.


Patients with stubborn peptic ulcers were exposed to copper vapor laser of various intensities with similar irradiation energy. The best therapeutic effect (more rapid ulcer healing) was achieved when ulcer bottom and edges were exposed to laser of higher intensity; the effect is explained by a higher stimulation of inflammation and a more rapid and clear-cut restructuring of connective-tissue stroma on ulcer bottom.


The objective of this study was to obtain a rapid and valid method of quantitative analysis for the determination simvastatin (SV) in combination with saccharin (SAC) and aspartame (ASP) in the co-crystal form using derivative spectrophotometric. Co-crystal preparation was conducted using solvent drops grinding (SGD). Samples of each co-crystal of ASP and SAC were dissolved in a solvent mixture of the methanol-water with a ratio (60:40); afterward it was derived using the zero crossing order for determining level of SV. The analytical method was validated based on validation parameter requirements, including, linearity, range, accuracy, precision, limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantitation (LOQ). The derivate spectrometric method have exhibited the zero crossing order in the third order derivate at 251 nm, linearity studies showed the value r2=0.9998 in a concentration range 0.25-2μg/ml. The accuracy was presented by the %recovery = 98.69%- 103.74%, and precision (%RSD) =1.67% - 2.96%. LOD and LOQ results presented a value 0.096 and 0.32μg/ml, respectively. Derivative spectrophotometric has been applied to the SV determination in co-crystal form and fulfilled all requirement of a method validation.


The emergence of leadership-class systems with GPU-equipped nodes has the potential to vastly increase the performance of existing distributed applications. An increasing number of applications that are converted to run on these systems are reliant on algorithms that perform computations on spatial data. Algorithms that operate on spatial data, such as density-based clustering algorithms, present unique challenges in data partitioning and result aggregation when porting to extreme scale environments. These algorithms require that spatially-near data points are partitioned to the same node and that the output from individual nodes needs to be aggregated to ensure that relationships between partition boundaries are discovered. In the development of an extreme scale density-based clustering algorithm, called Mr. Scan, we leveraged the increased computational power provided by GPUs to overcome these challenges. Three main techniques allowed Mr. Scan to cluster 6.5 billion points from the Twitter dataset using 8,192 GPU nodes on Cray Titan in 7.5 minutes: (1) a data partitioner scheme that ensures correctness by using shadow regions to selectively duplicate computation between nodes to detect clusters that lie in-between partition boundaries, (2) a dense box algorithm that reduces the computational complexity of clustering dense spatial regions, and (3) a new tree based method for merging results with spatial dependencies that requires only a fraction of the intermediate results to produce an accurate final result. The pure computational power of the GPUs allowed us to effectively summarize the initial data, making the scalable use of these techniques possible. ACM Reference Format: BenjaminWelton and Barton P.Miller. 2017. Data Reduction and Partitioning in an Extreme Scale GPU-Based Clustering Algorithm. In Proceedings of , , ,


Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains the worst molecular subtype due to high heterogeneity and lack of effective therapeutic targets. Here we investigated the tumor and immune microenvironment heterogeneity of TNBC using scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data from public databases and our cohort. Macrophage subpopulations accounted for a high proportion of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), and M1 macrophages were associated with better clinical outcomes. Furthermore, three maker genes including IFI35, PSMB9, and SAMD9L showed a close connection with M1 macrophages. Specifically, IFI35 was positively associated with macrophage activation, chemotaxis, and migration. Also, patients with high IFI35 expression had a better prognosis. In vitro studies subsequently demonstrated that IFI35 was upregulated during the M1 subtype differentiation of macrophages. In summary, our data suggested that IFI35 maybe a promising novel target that helps to reshape macrophage polarization towards the M1 subtype for anti-tumor effects.


Other than genome structure, influenza C (ICV), and D (IDV) viruses with seven-segmented genomes are biologically different from the eight-segmented influenza A (IAV), and B (IBV) viruses concerning the presence of hemagglutinin–esterase fusion protein, which combines the function of hemagglutinin and neuraminidase responsible for receptor-binding, fusion, and receptor-destroying enzymatic activities, respectively. Whereas ICV with humans as primary hosts emerged nearly 74 years ago, IDV, a distant relative of ICV, was isolated in 2011, with bovines as the primary host. Despite its initial emergence in swine, IDV has turned out to be a transboundary bovine pathogen and a broader host range, similar to influenza A viruses (IAV). The receptor specificities of ICV and IDV determine the host range and the species specificity. The recent findings of the presence of the IDV genome in the human respiratory sample, and high traffic human environments indicate its public health significance. Conversely, the presence of ICV in pigs and cattle also raises the possibility of gene segment interactions/virus reassortment between ICV and IDV where these viruses co-exist. This review is a holistic approach to discuss the ecology of seven-segmented influenza viruses by focusing on what is known so far on the host range, seroepidemiology, biology, receptor, phylodynamics, species specificity, and cross-species transmission of the ICV and IDV.


Experimental and theoretical studies have been carried out to elucidate the mechanism of water sensitivity of Berea Sandstone and quantify a number of important parameters. Based on the results of a number of novel experiments, a physical model has been developed. In this model, clay particles are released only when the salt concentration falls below a critical salt concentration. These colloidal clay particles remain dispersed in fresh water and are carried with the flowing fluid until they are captured at a local pore constriction, thereby decreasing permeability. A mathematical model based on this mechanism has been developed. This model contains two parameters stemming from the rate equations of the release and capture of clay particles. Correlations of these parameters with flowrate and temperature are presented. 9 refs.


Objectives To identify the amount of sleep disruption that occurs in the postoperative inpatient hospital setting, determine the relationship between sleep disruption and the quantity of narcotics taken for postoperative pain, and determine if hospital length of stay is related to sleep disruption. Study Design Prospective cohort study. Setting Single tertiary care academic institution. Subjects and Methods Fifty patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, between January 2013 and November 2013 were asked to wear an actigraph during their postoperative hospital stay. Total sleep time, sleep efficiency, awake index, total narcotic use, visual analog pain scores, and postoperative complications were analyzed. Results Overall sleep efficiency was 61.2% and 66.5% with an awake index of 5.5 and 5.4 for each of the postoperative nights measured. A significant correlation was found between increased self-reported pain scores and decreased total sleep time (r = −0.31; P = .03). Spearman correlations between total sleep time, sleep efficiency, and awake index were made with narcotic use on postoperative day (POD) 0 and 1. Longer hospital length of stay was significantly correlated with decreased sleep efficiency (r = −0.35, P = .01). Complication rates were not statistically different compared with sleep parameters. Conclusion Better control of a patient's pain is associated with greater sleep efficiency and total sleep time. Improvements in sleep efficiency in hospitalized patients may be associated with a decrease in length of stay.


The prevalence of bipolar disorder in adolescents is estimated at 0.7% in males and 1.0% in females over a 12-month period.1 Rarely are these symptoms attributed to an organic cause. We report a case of affective symptoms and behavioural disturbances due to pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH). PCH is a rare group of autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorders of perinatal onset marked by hypoplasia and atrophy of the cerebellar cortex, dentate nuclei, pontine nuclei and inferior olives.2,3 In the literature, PCH has not been associated with any psychiatric co-morbidities.


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

Gliomas continue to be the most common form of brain malignancy in adult patients. Even with advancements in the clinical management of these patients, assessment of tumor recurrence continues to be based on late or serial changes in tumor volume as measured by CT or MRI [1; 2]. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a new voxel-based method, referred as parametric response mapping (PRM), for early detection of brain tumor progression using standard MR images (FLAIR and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted). PRM results were evaluated relative to standard MRI-based criteria of clinical progression assessment in patients with Grade III/IV gliomas. Fourteen patients with grades III/IV glioma underwent MRI before and during treatment (every 2 months). MRI scans, acquired on a 1.5T or a 3T clinical scanner, consisted of fluid-attenuated inversion recovery imaging (FLAIR) and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (CE-T1w) images. All images were spatially registered to CE-T1w pre-treatment scans and tumors were manually contoured on the T1w-Gd images. Subsequent to PRM analysis, FLAIR images were normalized to the signal using the white matter (rFLAIR). PRM, applied to the whole brain volume on rFLAIR, was performed by first generating voxel-based difference maps at each longitudinal follow-up scan using the baseline as the subtrahend. Baseline was defined as either the pre-treatment or subsequent rFLAIR image. Individual voxels were classified based on the extent of change observed in the rFLAIR difference maps. Three classifications were used: voxels with a significant increase in rFLAIR values (PRMrFLAIR+), significant decrease (PRMrFLAIR-) or statistically unchanged (PRMrFLAIR0). Disease recurrence was defined by PRM as the sum of red voxels that exceed 20% of the tumor volume as delineated on T1w-Gd. PRMrFLAIR detected tumor recurrence on average 18±3 weeks earlier than the MacDonald criteria. It was also observed that PRMrFLAIR+ found outside the tumor CE-T1w regions revealed the spatial location at which the tumor would progress on subsequent scans based on current standard progression criteria. These results show that the PRM approach provides for the early detection and spatial depiction of brain tumor progression prior to detection by currently available conventional MRI-based criteria. While further validation of PRM for detection of tumor recurrence is currently underway, the ability to detect tumor progression significantly earlier than currently possible is anticipated to have a major impact on patient care. [1] Macdonald, D. R., et al. (1990). J Clin Oncol 8(7): 1277-1280. [2] Wen, P. Y., et al. (2010). J Clin Oncol 28(11): 1963-1972.

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 452. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-452


The likelihood of a market correction before the holidays due to the uneven distribution of information, which means a change or a rise and fall of stock prices in the market are always influenced by the information that is important and relevant.  To avoid the uncertainty and mitigate risk, market participants behave better not hold shares of the holidays. This research wants to analyze whether there is influence of the holiday (holiday effect) to the Composite Stock Price Index (CSPI) in Indonesia Stock Exchange in the period 2009-2011. Researchers will use the closing price of the shares belonging to the JCI 1 (one) week prior to the holiday and 1 (one) week after the holiday. The results using dummy regression showed that discovered the existence of the phenomenon of Anomaly Holiday Effect on Stock Price Index (CSPI) in Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) during the observation period. Based on observation of the data that has been processed, it can be also a national holiday that has the most significant effect on the normal trading day of Eid. Where the conditions of the market after the holiday is very significant and fluctuated KeyWord : market perticipants, holidays effect, Stock Price Index, Indinesia Stock Exchange


It is well recognized that power consumption and heat removal in state-of-the-art integrated circuits (ICs) with the nanometer size of transistors is an urgent challenge. The electronic industry's transition to multicore designs, where the performance increase is achieved not via the increase in the clock frequency but rather through the increase in the number of processors, helped to alleviate some of the thermal issues but has not solved the problem of the nonuniformity of heat distribution inside a computer chip.


The following interview with Fr. Francois Houtart took place in Managua in August 1987. Fr. Houtart, a Belgian priest who teaches at Louvain University, has been devoting his summers to research work in Nicaragua for the last five years. Since his first visit to Latin America in 1953, Fr. Houtart's work in the sociology of religion has become widely known and respected. He has also worked in many other parts of the third world. He was an expert at the Second Vatican Council and contributed significantly to the 1968 conference of Latin American bishops at Medellin, Colombia. Fr. Houtart is the author of the following books in English, among others: The Challenge to Change (Sheed and Ward. 1964); The Church and the Latin American Revolution (Sheed and Ward, 1965); Church and Revolution (Orbis, 1970); Religion and Ideology in Sri Lanka ; and two books on Catholicism in India.This article can also be found at the Monthly Review website, where most recent articles are published in full.Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.


Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes are central for the adaptive immune response against parasites. Here, we investigated potential associations among MHC-I alleles and blood parasite infections in a natural breeding population of a passerine bird, the blue tit Cyanistes caeruleus, in central Spain. We screened both infection status (presence/absence of infection) and infection intensity to the pathogenic blood parasites Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon. Three MHC-I alleles (UA104, UA108 and UA117) were associated with higher or lower infection intensities by Leucocytozoon. Interestingly, these associations were dependent on age and were found both among young and adult birds. No MHC alleles were associated with infection intensity by Haemoproteus parasites. In addition, no significant relationships were detected between infection status by Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon infections and MHC alleles. The very high prevalence of these two parasites in our study population (79-100%) poses challenges to identify associations with infection status and also suggests that clearance of infections may be rare. In conclusion, associations between specific MHC-I alleles and Leucocytozoon parasites were related to either high or low infection intensities, and hence increased susceptibility or resistance to infection. (Less)


The proposed paper seeks to provide some answer to question on an answer how elites are informed about citizen's preferences. More precisely, I focus mainly on what MPs in the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic directly claim as the source of information (public opinion surveys, media messages, party specialist, contact with people and own experience of MPs). Obviously, this research cannot offer objective information about the true source of information, but it can still provide important information especially in regard to the rhetorical connection between elite and citizens. Three electoral terms (2006 – 2010, 2010 – 2013 and 2013 – 2017) are analyzed. This time span allows to investigate differences between parties from "traditional" party families (communists, social democrats, Christian democrats, conservatives) and new populist parties and also whether the presence of populist parties has some impact on ways how former parties refer to the public. The Czech Republic is a good case for analysis because of sudden change between 2010 and 2013 which provide unique opportunity to compare features of political representation in three very different settings.


The bryophyte communities growing on decaying logs in the subtropical wet forests of Puerto Rico are described. Logs were classified according to presence or absence of bark and wood texture. Logs with bark are dominated by members of the Lejeuneaceae and Calymperaceae. In softwood logs, Taxithelium planum and Isopterygium tenerum were abundant. It is suggested in a preliminary manner that due to low fluctuation of water content in heavily decayed logs, hygromorphic bryophytes are favored.


Abstract:In this article, we give a Thomistic analysis of Ignatian consolation and desolation as they are found in Ignatius of Loyola's Spiritual Exercises. Specifically, we show that Aquinas's explanation of peace, joy, and discord in his discussion of charity provides an appropriate lens through which we can view Ignatian consolation and desolation. Further, we argue that consolation should be understood as a combination of Aquinas's spiritual peace and spiritual joy, and that this understanding helps to clarify Ignatian consolation, particularly with regard to determining whether causes of consolation without previous cause are genuine or not.


Background: Primary bone lymphoma (PBL) is a rare bone malignancy that accounts for 7% of all bone tumors. It most commonly involves the long bones, with the distal femur and the proximal tibia being the most common locations. The majority of patients present during adulthood with pain in the absence of trauma. Methods: A case report of a 15 year-old male, with a 6-month history of insidious onset right peripatellar pain. After arriving to our clinic he presented with a 30-pound weight loss over the last year, right inguinal adenopathy and tenderness in the patellar area. Imaging showed an osteolytic lesion of the right patella and an imaging-guided biopsy was performed. Awaiting results, he presented with a non-displaced fracture of the patella while he was walking down the stairs. Treatment with a knee brace and COPAD chemotherapy regime was initiated after a diagnosis of bone lymphoma was established. Results: Our patient received 6-months of chemotherapy and knee immobilization for his pathologic fracture. There was good response to the chemotherapy and no complications arised after the fracture. Our patient is now 2-years after diagnosis, without signs of recurring disease and back to his normal daily activities. Conclusion: There are few reports of PBL arising from the patella in the literature. Most of these reports do not distinguish by age, and the few that do, show patients between 38-77 years of age. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a patellar primary bone lymphoma in the pediatric population. Anterior knee pain is extremely common and its differential diagnosis is very wide. Anterior knee pain is more commonly related to tendinitis, patellar malalignment syndrome and chondromalacia. Clinicians should keep in mind the possibility of a malignant process as a possible underlying cause when there is lack of response to conventional treatment.


Abstract A goal in sustainable agriculture is to use fossil fuel energy more efficiently in crop production. This 12-year study investigated effects of two crop rotations and two crop production systems (organic versus conventional management) on energy use, energy output and energy-use efficiency. The grain-based rotation included wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–pea (Pisum sativum L.)–wheat–flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), while the integrated rotation included wheat–alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)–alfalfa–flax. Energy use was 50% lower with organic than with conventional management, and approximately 40% lower with integrated than with the grain-based rotation. Energy use across all treatments averaged 3420 MJ ha−1 yr−1. Energy output (grain and alfalfa herbage only) across treatments averaged 49,947 MJ ha−1 yr−1 and was affected independently by production system and crop rotation. Energy output in the integrated rotation was three times that of the grain-based rotation; however, this difference was largely due to differences in crop type (whole plant alfalfa compared with grain seed). Energy output was 30% lower with organic than with conventional management. Energy efficiency (output energy/input energy) averaged to 17.4 and was highest in the organic and integrated rotations. A significant rotation by production system interaction (P<0.05) indicated that energy efficiency increases due to crop input reduction (i.e., shift from conventional to organic management) were greater in the integrated than in the grain-based rotation. Greater energy efficiency in the integrated rotation under organic management was attributed to the fact that the forage component was less sensitive to chemical input removal than grain crops.


Moving objects with autonomous robots is a wide topic that includes single-arm pick-and-place tasks, object regrasping, object passing between two or more arms in the air or using support surfaces such as tables and similar. Each task has been extensively studied and many planning solutions are already present in the literature. In this letter, we present a planning scheme which, based on the use of pre-defined elementary manipulation skills, aims to unify solutions which are usually obtained by means of different planning strategies rooted on hard-coded behaviors. Both robotic manipulators and environment fixed support surfaces are treated as end-effectors of movable and non-movable types, respectively. The task of the robot can thus be broken down into elementary building blocks, which are end-effector manipulation skills, that are then planned at the kinematic level. Feasibility is ensured by propagating unforeseen low-level failures at the higher level and by synthesizing different behaviors. The validity of the proposed solution is shown via experiments on a bimanual robot setup and in simulations involving a more complex setup similar to an assembly line.


Introduction The rate of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation in the UK has been rising consistently and this trend is likely to continue. We sought to establish the nature of lead extraction practice in the UK. Methods The Heart Rhythm UK (HRUK) directory of members was used to compile a list of potential respondents for the survey. A link to the Survey Monkey online tool was sent with HRUK administrative support and responses were collated prior to analysis. The survey consisted of 21 questions and all results were anonymous. Results In total, 29 responses were received and of these 24 (82.8%) regularly performed trasnvenous lead extractions. The vast majority (82.8%) were electrophysiologists. Most operators performed up to 25 procedures per year (Abstract 060 figure 1A). Most procedures were performed in the EP lab with on-site surgical cover present at all but one site. The nature of surgical cover was generally informal (Abstract 060 figure 1B). The perceived commonest reason for extraction was a combination of infection/erosion and sepsis (93.1%). After a failed attempt at manual traction the most widely used method of extraction was to use a mechanical dissection sheath (65.5%) followed by the use of a laser sheath (21.1%). Peri- and post-procedure temporary pacing mostly utilised either a standard temporary pacing wire or an externalised permanent pacemaker device. Active fixation endocardial pace/sense leads were generally perceived the easiest and safest leads to extract while dual coil defibrillator leads and active fixation coronary sinus leads were perceived the most difficult and associated with the greatest risk (Abstract 060 figure 2A,B). The perception of minor and major complication rates and the risk of death increased with device complexity. The risk of minor complications was perceived to be 4% or less by the majority of respondents across the device range. The same measure for major complications and death was 2% and 1% respectively.Abstract 060 Figure 1 (A) Number of extractions performed per annum. (B) Surgical cover.Abstract 060 Figure 2 Conclusions and Implications Transvenous lead extraction is becoming increasingly common and most UK operators who responded to our survey perform 25 cases or fewer per annum. Surgical stand-by support was mostly informal but a significant minority of cases were performed in an operating theatre with a surgeon present. The perceived risk of the procedure was broadly in line with widely published figures internationally. The 2009 Heart Rhythm Society consensus document made a series of recommendations with regards to training, case volume and stand-by surgical support. It is suggested that a minimum of 20 cases per year be performed by each operator and that a cardiothoracic surgeon be physically on site and capable of performing an emergent procedure promptly. Accordingly, increased operator caseload and closer links between EP extractors and surgeons should be seen as achievable goals.


Calvin's doctrine concerning the church. A few aspects of Calvin's teachings on the church are pointed out to encourage the two churches involved in the Hervormde Theological Training to reconsider what Calvin himself has to say. This should not be done only in the ligth of his role in the past, but also within the context of the tremendous challenges and responsibilities that these two churches will have to face in the next millennium. Calvin's doctrine on the church can still provide instruction and guidance to the church today.


We present two methods to remove wafer probe interference radiation from measured on-chip antenna patterns performed in a probe station environment. On-chip antenna pattern and gain measurements are affected by parasitic probe tip radiation as well as scattered energy from the metal probe station environment. In this work, we use superposition and S-parameter techniques to de-embed the effects of probe tip radiation. On-chip Dipole, Yagi, and Rhombic antennas were fabricated using standard 180nm CMOS, and radiation patterns were measured at 60 GHz. This work shows methods that improve the ability to reliably design, predict, and measure on-chip antenna patterns.


Most space plasmas are weakly collisional. Due to the low collision rate, the plasmas are routinely out of local thermal equilibrium and often exhibit non‐Maxwellian velocity distributions. The charged particles typically exhibit anisotropy in temperature measurements, that is, distinct temperatures are observed perpendicular and parallel (T⊥i and T||i) to the local magnetic field. Numerous prior studies have shown that for increasing values of parallel ion beta (β||i), the range of ion temperature anisotropy (Ri = T⊥i/T||i) values becomes narrower. Conventionally, this behavior has been attributed to the actions of kinetic microinstabilities. This study is the first to explore such β||i‐dependent limits on ion temperature anisotropy in Jupiter's magnetosheath. We use linear Vlasov theory to compute contours of constant growth rate for different instability thresholds, which closely align with the limits of the data distribution, supporting that these instabilities are acting to limit extremes of ion temperature anisotropy in the Jovian magnetosheath.


Introduction: In maternal and neonatal cases, preeclampsia is a multi-organ, heterogeneous pregnancy condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Since preeclampsia is a progressive disease, in some cases, delivery is necessary to stop the progression to the benefit of the mother and foetus. However, the need for early delivery has adverse effects on significant neonatal outcomes that are not limited to the most premature babies. The results include oxidative stress in the disease and invoke the biochemical basis for antioxidant clinical trials to prevent and treat hypertension caused by pregnancy. In the management of preeclampsia, supplementation of antioxidants along with polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, may be useful. This describes vitamin Ds potential role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. However, the role of vitamin D supplementation and dosing is controversial in preventing preeclampsia. Method: The study was carried out from March 2019 to April 2020 at Shalinitai Meghe Hospital and Research Centre using institutional-based cross-sectional study design among women whose age was greater than or equal to eighteen. Data were collected using a standardised and pretested questionnaire from 150 participants by face-to face interview technique. Using Chemiluminiscent Immunoassay (CLIA), vitamin D estimation was performed. The behaviour of Glutathione Reductase was calculated according to the Goldberg et al 1983 procedure. To classify the factors associated with the development of preeclampsia, logistic regression analysis was used. Result: With a mean age of 30.28, a total of 150 participants were enrolled in the study. Evaluation of vitamin D and glutathione levels The prevalence of preeclampsia among current pregnant women attending ANC at Shalinitai Meghe Hospital was 16 with a 95 % CI. The current preeclampsia was significantly correlated with predictive variables such as the age of the respondents, current multiple pregnancy, and history of diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that preeclampsia was present in a large proportion of women. For both urban and rural residents, health seeking actions towards pregnant women should be promoted, offering an opportunity to detect preeclampsia as early as possible and preventing the coming complication of preeclampsia. The role of antioxidants is controversial in the prevention of preeclampsia. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with preeclampsia in a major way. To document the role of vitamin D supplementation in the prevention of preeclampsia, further studies are required.


Lyme Disease is the most prevalent arthropod borne illness in the U.S. Up to 60% of patients develop inflammatory arthritis following infection. Host genetics play a key role, as inbred mouse strains exhibit consistent differences in Lyme arthritis severity. Our lab previously described maximal linkage (LOD 10.2) of disease severity to the Bbaa2 locus on mouse Chromosome 5. Recently, we developed advanced congenic mice carrying sub-intervals of Bbaa2 from susceptible C3H on an otherwise uniform resistant B6 genetic background. This led to the positional cloning of a novel disease regulator, the lysosomal enzyme β-Glucuronidase (Gusb). C3H mice are Gusb hypomorphs, exhibiting a 90% enzymatic deficiency. Two sub-strains of CBA mice carrying the hypomorphic or wild type Gusb alleles develop severe Lyme arthritis or are protected, respectively. A Gusbnull mouse strain on the B6 background develops severe Lyme arthritis, while heterozygotes are protected. Transgenic overexpression of Gusb in C3H mice to correct the defect led to reduced arthritis severity, indicating a single gene effect. Preliminary data show that Gusb congenic mice also develop more severe disease in the KBxN model of Rheumatoid arthritis, suggesting a conserved role. Deficiencies in Gusb and other lysosomal enzymes lead to lysosomal storage diseases. We found that treatment with Hydroxychloroquine, which accumulates in lysosomes, dramatically reduces Lyme arthritis severity in Gusb congenic mice.


starts with the productive use of all natural resources, including energy, water, materials and chemicals, through Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP). This not only serves the climate agenda, but is generally also good for business, in terms of operational cost savings and improved productivity, and the environment and society at large. The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have established National Cleaner Production Centres (NCPCs) that foster and support technology innovation and adaptation in local industries in around 50 developing and transition countries. These combine into a global RECP network which provides a valuable platform for accelerating and scaling-up the deployment of climate-resilient technologies and practices in the industrial and related sectors. ResouRce PRoductivity foR climate action


Abstract Context Previous meta-analyses evaluating the association between nut consumption and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) had substantial methodological limitations and lacked recently published large prospective studies; hence, making an updated meta-analysis highly desirable. Objective To update the clinical guidelines for nutrition therapy in relation to the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD), a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies was conducted using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system to summarize the evidence of the association between total nuts, specific types of nuts, and the incidence of, and mortality from, CVD outcomes. Data sources Relevant articles were identified by searching the PubMed and Cochrane databases. Data extraction Two independent researchers screened the articles to identify those that met the inclusion criteria. Data analysis The inverse variance method with fixed-effect or random-effects models was used to pool data across studies (expressed as risk ratio [RR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]). Heterogeneity was tested and quantified using the Cochrane Q test and I2-statistic, respectively. The GRADE system was used to assess the quality of the evidence. Results Nineteen studies were included in the analyses. The results revealed an inverse association between total nut consumption (comparing highest vs lowest categories) and CVD incidence (RR, 0.85; 95%CI, 0.800.91; I2, 0%), CVD mortality (RR, 0.77; 95%CI, 0.72–0.82; I2, 3%), coronary heart disease (CHD) incidence (RR, 0.82; 95%CI, 0.69–0.96; I2, 74%), CHD mortality (RR, 0.76; 95%CI, 0.67–0.86; I2, 46%), stroke mortality (RR, 0.83; 95%CI, 0.75–0.93; I2, 0%), and atrial fibrillation (RR, 0.85; 95%CI, 0.73–0.99; I2, 0%). No association was observed with stroke incidence and heart failure. The certainty of the evidence ranged from moderate to very low. Conclusions This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed a beneficial role of nut consumption in reducing the incidence of, and mortality from, different CVD outcomes.


We introduce the Universal Named-Entity Recognition (UNER)framework, a 4-level classification hierarchy, and the methodology that isbeing adopted to create the first multilingual UNER corpus: the SETimesparallel corpus annotated for named-entities. First, the English SETimescorpus will be annotated using existing tools and knowledge bases. Afterevaluating the resulting annotations through crowdsourcing campaigns,they will be propagated automatically to other languages within the SE-Times corpora. Finally, as an extrinsic evaluation, the UNER multilin-gual dataset will be used to train and test available NER tools. As part offuture research directions, we aim to increase the number of languages inthe UNER corpus and to investigate possible ways of integrating UNERwith available knowledge graphs to improve named-entity recognition.


Large-scale quantum technologies require exquisite control over many individual quantum systems. Typically, such systems are very sensitive to environmental fluctuations, and diagnosing errors via measurements causes unavoidable perturbations. In this work, we present an in situ frequency-locking technique that monitors and corrects frequency variations in single photon sources based on microring resonators. By using the same classical laser fields required for photon generation as probes to diagnose variations in the resonator frequency, our protocol applies feedback control to correct photon frequency errors in parallel to the optical quantum computation without disturbing the physical qubit. We implement our technique on a silicon photonic device and demonstrate sub 1 pm frequency stabilization in the presence of applied environmental noise, corresponding to a fractional frequency drift of <1% of a photon linewidth. Using these methods, we demonstrate feedback-controlled quantum state engineering. By distributing a single local oscillator across a single chip or network of chips, our approach enables frequency locking of many single photon sources for large-scale photonic quantum technologies.


Objective
The aims of this study were to determine the best aspects of being a chiropractor from the practitioners' perspective and to determine job satisfaction among respondents.

Methods
An anonymous online survey was distributed to members of the chiropractic profession from August to September 2019. The survey included 25 statements regarded as being "a positive aspect of being a chiropractor."

Results
Three hundred and sixty-nine chiropractors responded. Respondents believe that the best aspects of being a chiropractor are that chiropractors can reduce pain, help move or build strength, flexibility, and power in patients. In addition, chiropractors 'being trained to diagnose' and 'being able to transform peoples' quality of life' were highly scored. Job satisfaction overall was rated as high (median score of 9/10). However, there are some aspects that are not highly regarded as best aspects by the profession such as the respect of the public and other health professionals.


The Online Student Connectedness Survey (OSCS) was introduced to the academic community in 2012 as an instrument designed to measure feelings of connectedness between students participating in online degree and certification programs. The purpose of this study was to examine data from the instrument for initial evidence of validity and reliability and to establish a nomological network between the OSCS and similar instruments utilized in the field. The study utilized sequential exploratory factor analysis- confirmatory factor analysis (EFA-CFA) and correlational analysis to assess results of the data. Students enrolled in online courses at higher education institutions located in the United States served as the sample for this study. Three instruments were used during the study. The OSCS was administered first so that the factor structure could be examined for factor validity. Once confirmed, the Classroom Community Scale (CCS) and the Community of Inquiry Scale (COI) served as the instruments to examine nomological validity through correlational analysis of data.This study provided evidence of factor validity and reliability for data from the OSCS. After the initial EFA-CFA, the four-factor structure held, and 16 of the 25 original items remained for nomological testing. Statistically significant correlations were demonstrated between factors contained in the OSCS, CCS, and COI, providing further evidence of construct validity. These results indicate that for the sample used in this study, the OSCS provides data that are valid and reliable for assessing feelings of connection between participants in online courses at institutions of higher learning.


The investigations that make up the subject of this paper have proposed to study the structure and the dynamics of the diseases and the pests of the wheat and corn cultures in the conditions of the "no tillage" culture system comparatively with the classical system. The quantification of the results of the "no tillage" culture system of the incidence of the diseases and pests requires a long standing investigation with the following objectives: the evidence and the establishing of the complex of the pest and disease which form the structure of the agrobiocenoses, the estimation of the numerical density, specifying the key species in the agro ecosystem in order to combat it integrally; the elaboration of the orientative systems of protection integrated on cultures, based on the technological elements specific to the "no tillage" culture system; the gradual promotion of the "no tillage" culture system in the areas and in the cultures that correspond to this system.


We have studied the annealing behaviors of pure Al (Al-1050) and Al-Mg-Si alloy (Al-6061) with plate-type using a real-time synchrotron X-ray scattering in vacuum. At room temperature (RT), the crystal domain size of Al phase in the Al-Mg-Si alloy was small as 70 nm, compared to that in the pure Al, 142 nm. The crystal Al phase in the Al-Mg-Si alloy has more thermal stability than that in the pure Al. The crystal Al phase in the Al-Mg-Si alloy was thermally stable in amount and size up to 250 °C. These are due to the existence of intermetallic crystal Mg₂Si phase, which is thermally stable in amount and size up to 250 °C.


The Intensive Home Treatment Team in Edinburgh provides care at home for those with acute and severe mental health problems. During the first COVID-19 lockdown, the team conducted and evaluated video and telephone calls but also continued seeing most patients face to face to ensure adequate care. The in-person care was achieved safely, without an increase in staff sickness events. During the lockdown, the team observed more cases of psychosis, particularly acute and transient psychosis and first-episode psychosis, particularly among women.


Background. A Nugent score > 7 has been defined as the gold standard for the diagnosis for bacterial vaginosis (BV), though it is resource intensive and impractical as point of care testing. We sought to determine if colorimetric assessment of vaginal pH can accurately predict the occurrence of BV. Methods. We performed a planned subanalysis of 1,216 pregnant women between 13 0/7 and 19 6/7 weeks who underwent vaginal examination as part of a randomized controlled trial. Using a standardized technique, specimens were obtained for colorimetric assessment and two separate slides for Gram staining. These slides were subsequently evaluated by two independent blinded microbiologists for Nugent scoring. Results. Interrater reliability of the interpretation of the Nugent score was excellent (intraclass correlation-individual 0.93 (95 CI 0.92 to 0.94) and average 0.96 (95% CI 0.95 to 0.97)). The sensitivity of an elevated pH > 5 for a Nugent score > 7 was 21.9% while the specificity was 84.5%. The positive predictive value in our population was 33.7% with a negative predictive value of 75.0%. Conclusion. Though the Nugent score is internally accurate, the prediction of BV using vaginal pH alone has poor sensitivity and specificity.


Various pyrazine derivatives were synthesized and their antiallergic activity was examined. The inhibitory activity on allergic histamine release of the compounds bearing a 5-tetrazolyl group was more potent than that of the corresponding carboxyl derivatives. The introduction of -CONH- or -NHCO- between the pyrazine ring and the 5-tetrazolyl group as a spacer greatly enhanced the activity. N-(1H-Tetrazol-5-yl)-2-pyrazinecarboxamide (I-3) was estimated to exhibit nearly the same potency as disodium cromoglycate (DSCG). The structure-activity relationship among various derivatives modified by introducing some substituents onto the 3-, 5- or 6-position of the pyrazine ring of I-3 was investigated. The activity remained unchanged or was reduced when such substituents as methyl, chloro, methoxy, methylamino and dimethylamino were introduced at the 3- or 5-position. In contrast, 6-substitution with various alkylamino groups more or less increased the activity. Among them, the 6-dimethylamino (I-17c) and 6-(1-pyrrolidinyl) (I-34) derivative were proved to be most potent. The IC50 values (concentration which produces 50% inhibition of the allergic histamine release) of I-17c and I-34 were determined to be 4.7 x 10(-10) and 4.6 x 10(-10) M, respectively. These two compounds produced a potent inhibitory activity on passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in rat, not only by the intravenous route (ED50 = 0.0096 mg/kg for both compounds) but also by the oral route (ED50 = 0.19 and 0.18 mg/kg, respectively). On the other hand, when the pyrazine ring of some representative compounds was replaced with a pyridine ring, the inhibitory activity on histamine release was significantly reduced.


This paper explores the puzzle of inconsistent findings in regard to bank lending decisions and the negative response to bank loan announcements in China. Using firm performance before and after the lending decisions, adjusted for the effects of earnings management, we are able to examine not only whether banks pay attention to borrowers' reported accounting profitability but also their credibility. We find that, when firm performance is adjusted for the effects of earnings management, in some cases it is no longer related to bank loan size. Specifically, the positive relationship disappears for loans by (state-owned banks) SBs to (state-owned enterprises) SOEs and loans by (small and medium banks) SMBs to both SOEs and non-SOEs, but still holds for loans by (foreign banks) FBs to both SOEs and non-SOEs. In regard to the market reaction to bank loan announcements, we find that negative bank loan announcements occur when the positive relationship between bank loan and firm performance disappears. Our evidence suggests that, in emerging markets, the positive relationship between firm performance and bank loan size is in some cases merely cosmetic and banks do not always exert an effort to screen borrowing firms. Accordingly, without real effort devoted to screening activities, banks lose the certification value on borrowers. Our study complements previous studies that use the sensitivity between firm performance and bank loan size to model bank lending decisions, and reconcile the conflicting evidence from the literature on banks' informational role and the literature on bank lending decisions.


The long-term impact on income inequality of agricultural commercial specialization is still an open-ended discussion. Diverse economic models and approaches offer competing views, while historians increasingly stress the contingent nature of the paths followed in the various contexts. Applying common inequality indices like the Theil index along with new ones such as the inequality possible frontier (IPF) and Inequality Extraction Ratios (IER), this study examines how winegrowing specialization in Catalonia correlated with agr icultural income distribution in the municipalities of the province of Barcelona during the mid-nineteenth century. This analysis examines a large dataset assembled from over 86,000 cadastral taxpayers in 292 municipalities and recorded in the Distribution of Personal Wealth in Real Estate Ownership of the province of Barcelona in 1852, combined with other population and land use data listed in the Estadística ter ritor ial de la provincia de Barcelona (Land Use Statistics of the Province of Barcelona), compiled in 1858. The results confirm that inequality in agricultural income distribution was lower in predominantly winegrowing municipalities than in timber and cereal-growing ones, despite the fact that commercial specialization and higher population densities could have extended the inequality possible frontier of those wineg rowing areas in the mid-nineteenth century.


While reacting to globalization and ongoing crisis organizations face numerous decisions about handling workforce. They should realize the gathering ground of flexibility in employment with regards to costs, and have to deal with alternative forms in order to be able more adaptive to the changing customer needs as well. The scope of this present research work is to explore the status of flexible employment forms in Hungarian Small and Medium Sized Enterprises and to investigate the factors influencing its applicability.


Bioisosteric replacement plays an important role in medicinal chemistry by keeping the biological activity of a molecule while changing either its core scaffold or substituents, thereby facilitating lead optimization and patenting. Bioisosteres are classically chosen in order to keep the main pharmacophoric moieties of the substructure to replace. However, notably when changing a scaffold, no attention is usually paid as whether all atoms of the reference scaffold are equally important for binding to the desired target. We herewith propose a novel database for bioisosteric replacement (scPDBFrag), capitalizing on our recently published structure-based approach to scaffold hopping, focusing on interaction pattern graphs. Protein-bound ligands are first fragmented and the interaction of the corresponding fragments with their protein environment computed-on-the-fly. Using an in-house developed graph alignment tool, interaction patterns graphs can be compared, aligned, and sorted by decreasing similarity to any reference. In the herein presented sc-PDB-Frag database ( http://bioinfo-pharma.u-strasbg.fr/scPDBFrag ), fragments, interaction patterns, alignments, and pairwise similarity scores have been extracted from the sc-PDB database of 8077 druggable protein-ligand complexes and further stored in a relational database. We herewith present the database, its Web implementation, and procedures for identifying true bioisosteric replacements based on conserved interaction patterns.


Part I established a theoretical model that was able to predict the stress-strain and torque-strain curves of a yarn. This second part evaluates the model. The influence of fiber and yarn parameters on the predicted values is also discussed. The most critical fiber property is the coefficient of friction.


Proplatelet production represents a terminal stage of megakaryocyte development during which long, branching processes composed of platelet-sized swellings are extended and released into the surrounding culture. Whereas the cytoskeletal mechanics driving these transformations have been the focus of many studies, significant limitations in our ability to quantify the rate and extent of proplatelet production have restricted the field to qualitative analyses of a limited number of cells over short intervals. A novel high-content, quantitative, live-cell imaging assay using the IncuCyte system (Essen BioScience) was therefore developed to measure the rate and extent of megakaryocyte maturation and proplatelet production under live culture conditions for extended periods of time. As proof of concept, we used this system in the present study to establish a mechanism by which trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1), an Ab-drug conjugate currently in clinical development for cancer, affects platelet production. High-content analysis of primary cell cultures revealed that T-DM1 is taken up by mouse megakaryocytes, inhibits megakaryocyte differentiation, and disrupts proplatelet formation by inducing abnormal tubulin organization and suppressing microtubule dynamic instability. Defining the pathways by which therapeutics such as T-DM1 affect megakaryocyte differentiation and proplatelet production may yield strategies to manage drug-induced thrombocytopenias.


Using an original dataset from the Vietnamese catfish sector, I analyze the impact of vertical coordination options, namely contract farming and vertical integration on farm performance. Farm performance is measured in terms of yield and revenue per hectare. The effects of vertical coordination are estimated using a maximum simulated likelihood estimator and a two-stage least square regression with instrumental variables to account for exogenous farm and household characteristics and the sample selection bias. The results show that vertically integrated farms have substantially higher yields and revenue per hectare than non-integrated farms. The levels of gains, which can be attributed to integration, are large and consistent under different estimation procedures. There is no difference between non-integrated and contract farms in terms of farm performance.


The article considers the process of strategic transformation of the company's internal audit as an effective form of the financial control system, which is a structurally branched set of interrelated links. The paper analyses various aspects of organization management in the context of global crisis phenomena in socio-economic and other spheres. The author proposes a set of measures to adapt the company to work during the Covid-19 pandemic impact on the economy. The study clarifies fundamentally new requirements to the content of the internal audit service specialists` functionality and the nature of their interaction with top management representatives. The paper outlines the prospects of professional development of the auditor in modern conditions.


For the development of radioimmunoassay procedures for chlorpromazine and its active metabolites, three chlorpromazine haptens, 7-(or 8-)(3-carboxypropionyl)chlorpromazine, N-(3-carboxypropionyl)desmethylchlorpromazine, and N-(2-carboxyethyl)desmethylchlorpromazine, were synthesized and characterized by GLC--mass spectrometry, PMR spectrometry, and IR spectrophotometry. Each hapten was coupled to bovine serum albumin, and the number of hapten residues per mole of bovine serum albumin was calculated by UV spectrophotometric methods. Antibodies to each hapten--protein conjugate were obtained in rabbits, and titers of the antiserums were checked by evaluating their binding characteristics to tritiated chlorpromazine.


A Cu-catalyzed three-component N-alkylation coupling reaction of N-heteroarenes with methyl ketones and DMPA as a carbon source has been developed. Using methyl ketones as alkylation reagents and DMPA (N,N'-dimethylpropionamide) as a carbon source, the reaction proceeded smoothly under the Cu-based oxidative system and led to a series of functionalized N-heterocycles including 4-quinazolinones, triazoles and pyrazoles.


This study examines English teachers' voices regarding the teacher professional development (TPD) experiences in state vocational high school in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The voices include their motivation and perceived challenges of professional development efforts. The study is a qualitative research employing questionnaire and interviews to gather the data from ten English teachers in state vocational high school. The findings unravel some intrinsic motivations of English teachers and the challenges and needs perceived in doing TPD related to their time management, namely problems related to teaching schedule and time to look after the family. Most teachers also need more training to practice their ICT skills and performance. The suggestions for further studies are also discussed. DOI: doi.org/10.24071/llt.2018.Suppl2109


Abstract The recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County is a landmark piece of case law that offers fundamental rights to LGBT persons. This essay reflects on how this case arrived at the Supreme Court and its implications for theory and praxis. The overall conclusion is that cautious optimism is warranted.


We develop a practical motion control strategy for a radio-controlled, 4-link and free-swimming biomimetic robot fish that uses a flexible posterior body and an oscillating foil as propulsor. Because motion control of robot fish involves hydrodynamics of the fluid medium and dynamics of the robot, it is hard to establish a mathematic model employing purely analytical methods. The fish's motion control task, based on control performance of the fish, is decomposed into on-line speed control and orientation control. The speed control algorithm is then implemented by using step control, and orientation control is realized by fuzzy logic. Combining with step control and fuzzy control, a point-to-point control algorithm is implemented and applied to the closed-loop experimental system that using a vision-based position sensing subsystem to provide feedback. The running experiments confirm the reliability and effectiveness of the presented algorithms.


An early and precise yield estimation in intensive managed grassland is mandatory for economic management decisions. RGB (red, green, blue) cameras attached on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) represent a promising non-destructive technology for the assessment of crop traits especially in large and remote areas. Photogrammetric structure from motion (SfM) processing of the UAV-based images into point clouds can be used to generate 3D spatial information about the canopy height (CH). The aim of this study was the development of prediction models for dry matter yield (DMY) in temperate grassland based on CH data generated by UAV RGB imaging over a whole growing season including four cuts. The multi-temporal study compared the remote sensing technique with two conventional methods, i.e., destructive biomass sampling and ruler height measurements in two legume-grass mixtures with red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) and lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) in combination with Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.). To cover the full range of legume contribution occurring in a practical grassland, pure stands of legumes and grasses contained in each mixture were also investigated. The results showed, that yield prediction by SfM-based UAV RGB imaging provided similar accuracies across all treatments (R2 = 0.59–0.81) as the ruler height measurements (R2 = 0.58–0.78). Furthermore, results of yield prediction by UAV RGB imaging demonstrated an improved robustness when an increased CH variability occurred due to extreme weather conditions. It became apparent that morphological characteristics of clover-based canopies (R2 = 0.75) allow a better remotely sensed prediction of total annual yield than for lucerne-grass mixtures (R2 = 0.64), and that these crop-specific models cannot be easily transferred to other grassland types.


Objective To isolate and identify new methanogens from the rumen of Holstein steers in Korea. Methods Representative rumen contents were obtained from three ruminally cannulated Holstein steers (793±8 kg). Pre-reduced media were used for the growth and isolation of methanogens. Optimum growth temperature, pH, and sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration as well as substrate utilization and antibiotic tolerance were investigated to determine the physiological characteristics of the isolated strain. Furthermore, the isolate was microscopically studied for its morphology. Polymerase chain reaction of 16S rRNA and mcrA gene-based amplicons was used for identification. Results One strain designated as KOR-2 was isolated and found to be a non-motile irregular coccus with a diameter of 0.2 to 0.5 μm. KOR-2 utilized H2+CO2 and formate but was unable to metabolize acetate, methanol, trimethylamine, 2-propanol, and isobutanol for growth and methane production. The optimum temperature and pH for the growth of KOR-2 were 38°C and 6.8 to 7.0, respectively, while the optimum NaCl concentration essential for KOR-2 growth was 1.0% (w/v). KOR-2 tolerated ampicillin, penicillin G, kanamycin, spectromycin, and tetracycline. In contrast, the cell growth was inhibited by chloramphenicol. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA and mcrA genes revealed the relatedness between KOR-2 and Methanoculleus bourgensis. Conclusion Based on the physiological and phylogenetic characteristics, KOR-2 was thought to be a new strain within the genus Methanoculleus and named Methanoculleus bourgensis KOR-2.


The Franklin intrusions are an extensive swarm of late Hadrynian (latest Proterozoic) diabase dikes that are present in an arc from Great Bear Lake eastward to Melville Peninsula, Baffin Island, and northern Ungava Bay. They are chemically and petrologically classified as tholeiites and are probably comagmatic. Paleomagnetic pole positions and numerous whole-rock K-Ar age determinations indicate that the dikes were emplaced at low latitudes 650 m.y. ago. They intrude Hadrynian sedimentary sequences that contain features indicative of depositon under warm climatic conditions. The Baffin dikes are subparallel with the northeast coastline of Baffin Island and with a pronounced northwest-trending fault system. Intermittent, mainly normal movement along these faults persisted from the Helikian to the Quaternary and produced a series of graben structures which may be due to the same regional tension as the dikes. Thus, Baffin Bay and Davis Strait may have begun to form as early as the late Hadrynian, and they may contain Paleozoic strata.


This paper presents a framework for providing personalized and adapted support to university students with dyslexia in a learning management system (LMS). The components of the framework include tools for: detecting reading difficulties and preferences in the students, assessing cognitive processes involved in their reading, and delivering intervention and assistance tasks according to specific cognitive deficits. This framework is designed considering multimodal interaction mechanisms by means of using different communicative channels (visual, auditory and speech). Additionally, its architecture is formed mainly by: 1) a student model including individual reading profiles, learning styles and cognitive traits, 2) an adaptation engine based on the delivery of learning analytics and adapted recommendations, and 3) tracking tools to measure the performance and satisfaction of users. The framework is proposed to be integrated into a LMS and, to this end, the architecture is supported in web services.


The paper "Owicki-Gries Reasoning for C11 RAR" introduces a new proof calculus for the C11 RAR memory model that allows Owicki-Gries proof rules for compound statements, including noninterference, to remain unchanged. The proof method features novel assertions specifying threadspecific views on the state of programs. This is combined with a set of Hoare logic rules that describe how these assertions are affected by atomic program steps. The artifact includes the Isabelle formalisation of the proof method introduced in the paper. It also contains the formalisation and proof of all case studies presented in the paper. All of the theorems are accompanied with their respective proofs. 2012 ACM Subject Classification Theory of computation → Logic and verification; Theory of computation → Hoare logic; Theory of computation → Concurrency; Theory of computation → Operational semantics; Theory of computation → Program reasoning


Limit load solutions have been applied to estimate the collapse load of a component made of ductile material. Worldwide maintenance codes for power plants, such as ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessels Code, Section XI, and JSME fitness-for-service code, describe limit load solutions under the assumption of a single flaw. Detected flaws are, however, not always a single flaw, and adjacent flaws due to stress corrosion cracking have been detected in power plants. Thus, development of a limit load solution to estimate the collapse load in the case of multiple flaws remains an issue of structural integrity evaluation. Under the aim of developing a method for evaluating the effect of multiple flaws on collapse load as a part of a limit load solution, fracture tests of flat plates and pipes with multiple flaws were conducted. Although experimental approaches have been attempted to establish the evaluation method, further efforts are required to incorporate the evaluation procedure into a code rule.
 Effective parameters for considering reduction of collapse load on the basis of test results for specimens with multiple flaws were identified. Test results clearly show a correlation between collapse load and ratios of net-section areas. This correlation leads to the conclusion that distance parameters and flaw length of a smaller flaw determine the existence of an effect on the collapse load by multiple flaws. To investigate the physical sense of the correlation, finite element analysis (FEA) was performed. The FEA results show that strain distributions at the flaw tip under several conditions correspond at the time of maximum load of the fracture tests regardless of the effect of multiple flaws. Also according to the FEA results, the extent of the strain field is linearly proportional to flaw length. These FEA results are consistent with the correlation obtained by the test results.


There is a current intense interest in water electrolysis as a means of generating or storing energy as hydrogen. The water oxidation step typically requires high overpotentials, creating a significant energy loss in the process. In this work we report for the first time water oxidation over a MnOx electrocatalyst at low overpotentials (∼150 mV) in butyl ammonium bisulfate electrolytes (aqueous 0.4 M and hydrated ionic liquid 50/50). The catalyst–electrolyte combination produces currents of the order of 1 mA cm−2 at 150 mV overpotential. A similar experiment in an inorganic electrolyte produces only negligible currents on this catalyst. The product is shown by permanganate oxidation to be predominantly hydrogen peroxide dissolved in the electrolyte. This was confirmed by the preparation of model solutions directly from hydrogen peroxide which were shown to behave similarly to the electrochemically prepared solutions. Ab initio calculation of possible solvated hydrogen peroxide structures in the electrolyte suggests that the hydrogen peroxide is stabilised by a hydrogen bonded complex involving the amine. The hydrogen peroxide solution is shown to be stable for several hours, to days, depending on the concentration, but can be rapidly decomposed into oxygen by a MnO2 catalyst. The process could thus be of interest both as part of a water splitting scheme as well as a route to hydrogen peroxide for chemical use.


Fabry's disease (FD) is an X‐linked lysosomal storage disease. Distal extremity pain can be an early finding and renal, cardiac, and cerebrovascular complications may lead to complications and mortality. Treatment is now available for these patients, who may not be diagnosed correctly for years if the neuropathic nature of the pain is not recognized. The aim of our study was to describe early clinical features in a cohort of patients with FD and to emphasize the importance of distal extremity pain for early diagnosis.


Abstract. Measurements of carbon dioxide concentration, temperature and windspeed were made in the nocturnal boundary layer over a tropical forest near Manaus, Brazil using a tethered balloon system. The measurements were made up to a maximum height of 300 m on ten consecutive nights in November 1995. Simultaneous surface flux and in-canopy concentration measurements were made at the surface close to the site. The observation period included several different types of conditions. Generally strong windshear and relatively weak temperature gradients prevented the formation of a strong capping inversion to the nocturnal boundary layer. On some nights, however, the inversion was sufficiently strong that the CO2 concentration at 100 m above the surface exceeded 400 ppm. The concentration within the canopy was largely controlled by the presence of an inversion very close to the canopy surface. The temperature and wind profiles are contrasted with conditions in Randonia, Brazil, where the windshear was found to be weaker and higher carbon dioxide concentrations were observed in the early morning. The difference in carbon dioxide concentrations in the nocturnal boundary layer between dusk and dawn is used to estimate the regional nighttime flux of carbon dioxide. The value obtained generally exceeds the measured surface flux and sometimes exceeds the sum of the surface flux and the in-canopy storage made at the tower site. The reasons for the discrepancy are not clear; either one of the methods is in error or the regional carbon dioxide budget differs significantly from the local budget measured at the tower site.


Pneumothorax and haemothorax constitute serious complications of a blunt chest trauma. During 1970-1978 64 persons with pneumothorax and 109 cases of haemothorax were admitted to and treated in the Surgical Unit of the University Hospital, Göttingen. In nearly every case fracture of several ribs had also occurred. The method of choice for treating cases of pneumothorax was by Bülau drainage; surgical closure of the air leakage was rarely necessary. Conservative measures are indicated only if the pneumothorax is narrow or confined to the apical region. It is worth mentioning that in a large number of cases pneumothorax developed during positive pressure ventilation after a chest injury. Complications of Bülau drainage were: damage to the lungs, skin emphysema and bleeding from the intercostal artery. Open application of the Bülau drainage in the 2nd intercostal space is therefore recommended. Treatment of traumatic pleural effusions by Bülau drainage was required in only 14 of 109 cases. Therapy-resistent effusions necessitated thoracotomy and evacuation of the haematoma in 4 persons. If Bülau drainage fails completely to evacuate the haemothorax, it should be promptly followed by thoracotomy to prevent the development of adhesions and the resulting impairment of respiratory function.


The buckling characteristics of thin functionally graded (FG) nano-plates subjected to both thermal loads and biaxial linearly varying forces is investigated. Eringen's nonlocal elasticity theory is employed to account for the nano-scale phenomena in the plates. Hamilton's principle and the constitutive relations are used to derive the partial differential governing equations of motion for the thin plates that are modeled using Kirchhoff's plate theory. The mechanical properties of the FG nano-plates are assumed to vary smoothly across the thickness of the plate following a power law. Three types of thermal loads are presented and the spectral collocation method is utilized to solve for the critical buckling loads. The accuracy of the numerical solution of the proposed model is verified by comparing the results with those available in the literature. A comprehensive parametric study is carried out, and the effects of the nonlocal scale parameter, power law index, aspect ratio, slopes of the axial loads, boundary conditions, assumed temperature distributions, and the difference between the ceramic-rich and metal-rich surfaces on the nonlocal critical buckling loads of the nano-plates are examined. The results reveal that these parameters have significant influence on the stability behavior of the FG nano-plates.


Operating temperature information was gathered using thermocouples installed on the outside of an existing high pressure feedwater heater (FWH). The operating data was collected to demonstrate the basis for the evaluation of the operational effectiveness of the heater especially during rapid load changes. This information provides insight into the selection of shell side design temperatures of the skirt and shell sections of a feedwater heater. This direct measurement of the temperature was useful in evaluating the appropriateness of both skirt and shell design temperatures selected by standard HEI practice. Also, consideration will be given to upgraded turbines and their impact on the design temperatures and pressures of existing FWH(s).Copyright © 2014 by ASME


We present an analysis of the dynamical critical behavior of the mean-field zero-temperature random-field Ising model, based on the probability of finding a given sequence in the response signal, which has the form of a Markov chain with Poisson transition probabilities. We provide an exact description of the avalanche duration distribution, the absolute probabilities of signal values, and the signal time-autocorrelation function. The overall behavior of these quantities depends on their characteristic lengths, which all diverge near the critical point (z = 1) as ~ 1/|ln (z)|, where z is a control parameter of the underlying dynamics. Our findings are corroborated with the results of extensive simulations.


Contrasting reports exist in the literature regarding the effect of chloroquine treatment on cellular zinc uptake or secretion. Here we tested the effect of chloroquine administration in the Drosophila model organism. We show that larvae grown on a diet supplemented with 2.5 mg / mL chloroquine lose up to 50% of their stored zinc and around 10% of their total potassium content. This defect in chloroquine-treated animals correlates with the appearance of abnormal autophagolysosomes in the principal cells of the Malpighian tubules, where zinc storage granules reside. We further show that the reported increase of Fluozin-3 fluorescence following treatment of cells with 300 µM chloroquine for one hour may not reflect increased zinc accumulation, since a similar treatment in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells results in a 36% decrease in their total zinc content. Thus, chloroquine should not be considered a zinc ionophore. Zinc supplementation plus chloroquine treatment restored zinc content both in vivo and in vitro, without correcting autophagic or other ionic alterations, notably in potassium, associated with the chloroquine treatment. We suggest that chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine administration to patients could reduce intracellular zinc storage pools and be part of the drug's mechanism in of action.


In recent years, someone could observe a development in location-based
technologies and geospatial information. Knowledge of geo-location has led
to the development of Location-Based Services. The ability to reach
consumers in a targeted way based on geographic data attracted advertisers
from the beginning of location based services development, creating a
domain called location-based marketing.
This post-graduate dissertation aims to highlight the capabilities of locationbased
services in location-based marketing. The emergence of these
capabilities is accomplished by creating a website and an Android
application. The website helps companies, that desire to introduce
themselves in location-based marketing, to create an account and make
public some offers for their customers. The Android app was created for the
end user. The user has the option of selecting the categories of interest and
then start receiving offers for the categories he has selected. These offers
reach the end user in the form of push notifications.
3


The nanostructured TiO2 films have deposited on SnO2:F (FTO) coated glass substrate by spray pyrolysis technique at different substrate temperatures of 200-500 degrees C. The structural, surface morphological and optical properties of TiO2 films significantly vary with the substrate temperature. The surface of the TiO2 films deposited at 400 degrees C shows the nanoflakes and short nanorods (approximately 130 nm) like structures while the TiO2 films prepared at 500 degrees C shows only the nanoflakes like structures. The band gap of the TiO2 films prepared at higher temperatures (300-500 degrees C) becomes narrow due to presence the rutile phases in their crystal structure. Ruthenium (II) complex as a dye, KI/I2 as an electrolyte and carbon on FTO glass as a counter electrode has used to fabricate the dye-sensitized solar cell (DSC). The TiO2 film deposited at 400 degrees C has showed the best photovoltaic performance in DSC with the efficiency of 3.81%, the photovoltage of 773 mV, the photocurrent of 8.34 mA/cm2, and the fill factor of 56.17%. The photovoltage of the DSC increases with the increase of substrate temperature during the deposition of TiO2 films. Moreover, all the DSCs exhibit reasonably high fill factor value.


The efficacy of an inactivated vaccine for the prevention of feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), feline caliciviral disease (FCVD), and feline panleukopenia (FPL) was tested in 27 nondomestic adult felids from 7 species. The vaccine was given IM at the standard domestic cat dose in 19 animals and double this dose in 8 others. The animals were vaccinated either 1, 2, or 3 times. Serum-neutralization (SN) antibodies to FVR (mean SN titer, 23) developed in all 15 animals that were previously seronegative, and SN antibodies to FCVD (mean SN titer, 11) developed in 19 of 21 animals that were previously seronegative. There was no significant increase of SN antibody titers by doubling the vaccine dose or by administering a 3rd vaccination. The optimal response could be obtained by using the domestic cat vaccination protocol of a single dose given twice, 4 weeks apart. The critical evaluation of the SN antibody titer for FPL was complicated by preexisting titers to FPL from previous vaccinations, but in 23 animals the titers became higher, whereas they remained unchanged in only 4 animals. The persistence of the SN titers was evaluated 7 to 9 months later and found to be satisfactory for FVR (mean SN titer, 18) FCVD (mean SN titers, 43) and FPL (mean SN titer, 517). Enhanced persistence of titer could not be demonstrated by doubling the dose or administering a 3rd vaccination.