Helical point spread functions (PSFs) provide a powerful computational imaging tool for modern optical imaging and sensing applications. However, their utilization is, so far, limited to a single field of application, i.e. super-resolution microscopy, which is due to multiple shortcomings in their current system implementation. A new computational imaging approach is developed in this thesis, which enables the utilization of helical PSFs and their unique advantages for applications in the area of machine vision. In particular, the approach can be used to acquire the three-dimensional distribution of a passively illuminated, extended scene in a single shot based on a compact, monocular camera setup. A novel image processing routine is established to overcome a major challenge of computational imaging using helical PSFs, i.e. the retrieval of the PSF rotation angle in the case of an extended object distribution. The hardware implementation of computational imaging setups that rely on helical PSFs is based on a combination of a conventional optical element, such as a microscope objective or a camera lens, and an additional, dedicated pupil mask. This mask is commonly realized using either a spatial light modulator or a lithographic element that features a structured surface profile. Two new fabrication schemes with different advantages are explored in this thesis. The first scheme utilizes wafer-scale optical lithography in combination with UV-replication in order to fabricate highly cost efficient phase elements. The second method is based on femto-second laser direct writing. It enables the inscription of the phase element directly inside a transparent optical element using a single fabrication step. Therefore, it facilitates a flexible realization of highly integrated PSF engineered optical systems. Current design concepts for pupil masks that generate helical PSFs only focus on doublehelix distributions that feature two, laterally separated irradiance peaks. Furthermore, a diffraction limited performance of the computational imaging system is assumed. A new design method that enables the generation of multi-order-helix PSFs with an arbitrary number of rotating peaks is developed in this thesis. A study of the influence of first order aberrations on the rotation angle of multi-order-helix PSFs is performed in order to assess their effect on the accuracy limits with respect to three-dimensional imaging. In this context, the superior aberration robustness of high-order-helix PSFs featuring three or more rotating spots is demonstrated. Whereas, on the one hand, the effect of aberrations on helical PSFs degrade the depth retrieval accuracy of three-dimensional imaging systems, their influence can be explored in order to obtain information on the system's wavefront aberrations on the other hand. To this end, the computational imaging approach developed for three-dimensional imaging is extended and combined with a conventional phase diversity method. The novel approach enables a numerically efficient estimation of general wavefront aberrations based on the acquisition of an extended, unknown object scene. In summary, the research performed in this thesis provides the foundation to exploit the unique advantages of computational imaging systems based on helical PSFs for applications in the area of three-dimensional imaging and wavefront sensing.


We determined effects of oxytocin on piglet pial arterioles and the role of prostanoids in mediating arteriolar responses. Anesthetized piglets were equipped with closed cranial windows, and arteriolar diameter was measured using intravital microscopy. Pial arterioles were exposed to 10(-10) to 10(-4) M oxytocin. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 6-ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha) were determined using radioimmunoassay. Baseline diameter was 110 +/- 4 microns and increased to 120 +/- 6 microns at 10(-8) M (9 +/- 3%, n = 20). CSF levels of PGE2 were 697 pg/ml during baseline and increased to 1,685 +/- 316 pg/ml during 10(-6) M, 2,243 +/- 327 pg/ml during 10(-5) M, and 2,941 +/- 500 pg/ml during 10(-4) (n = 6). CSF levels of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha were 354 +/- 73 pg/ml during baseline and increased to 734 +/- 168 pg/ml at 10(-5) M and to 836 +/- 167 pg/ml at 10(-4) M (n = 5). After inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin (5 mg/kg i.v.), oxytocin constricted at all doses, starting at 10(-10) M (5 +/- 2%) and continuing to constrict at 10(-4) M (24 +/- 2%, n = 14). We conclude that: 1) piglet pial arterioles respond to relatively low levels of oxytocin, 2) local presence and/or production of prostanoids promotes dilation, and 3) endogenous prostanoids prevent constriction of pial arterioles to oxytocin. Our results suggest that oxytocin could play a role in the regulation of cerebral hemodynamics.


The development and use of languages for official, education, religion, etc. purposes have been a major political issue in many developing multilingual countries. A number of these countries, including China and India, have recognised the issues and developed language policies that have provided some ethnic groups with the right to develop their languages and cultures by using writing systems based on scripts suitable for these purposes. On the other hand, other countries, such as Ethiopia (a multilingual African state) had, for a long time, preferred a policy of one language and one script in the belief that this would help the assimilation of various ethnic groups create a homogenous population with one language and culture. Rather than realizing that aim, the policy became a significant source of conflict and demands for political independence among disfavoured groups.

This thesis addresses the development of a writing system for Oromo, a language spoken by approximately 40 percent of the total population of Ethiopia, which remained officially unwritten until the early 1990s. It begins by reviewing the early history of Oromo writing and discusses the Ethiopian language policies, analysing materials written in various scripts and certain writers starting from the 19th century. The adoption of Roman script for Oromo writing and the debates that followed are explored, with an examination of some phonological aspects of the Oromo language and the implications of representing them using the Roman alphabet.

This thesis argues that the Oromo language has thrived during the past few years having implemented a Roman-based alphabetical script. There have been and continue to be, however, internal and external challenges confronting the development of the Oromo writing system which need to be carefully considered and addressed by stakeholders, primarily by the Oromo people and the Ethiopian government, in order for the Oromo language to establish itself as a fully codified language in the modern nation-state.


The question that motivates the discussion at the heart of this paper is how can we use technology to help learners (and teachers, peers and parents) to adapt the resources they find within a particular location to best support their learning needs. We present a description of a learning context as a Learner Centric Ecology of Resources and associated Organising Activities that can be deployed variously but with a concern to promote and support mediations, including those of the teacher and learner. For theoretical grounding, we look to sociocultural theory and in particular the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) with its emphasis upon the internalization of the interactions that occur within a learner's context. This internalization process results in the decontextualization of social interactions within the head of the individual. It means that the resultant internal processes are defined by the context from which they originate. The ZPD can be thought of as a context in which productive interactivity can take place. The constructs of, situation definition, intersubjectivity and semiotic mediation as presented by Wertsch are explored in order to extract a specification of context for use in the design and evaluation of learning technologies. Likewise, the Zone of Available Assistance, the Zone of Proximal Adjustment and the Broadband Learner Model: all previously used by us to inform the development of educational software.


Biodiversity conservation outside designated protected areas remains challenging in South Africa, where 80% of the biodiversity resources occur on private and communal lands. This applies to the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province, which is the focus of this study. Landholders logically choose agricultural production ahead of conservation, which they often perform using non-ecological methods. Extension is well positioned to promote ecological agriculture, but its current contribution is unknown. This study examined the role of extension in ecological agriculture in KZN by investigating extension's promotion of ecological agriculture among smallholder farmers and the factors impacting their employment of ecologically compatible practices. Data was collected through semistructured interviews with 44 respondents, comprising 5 provincial biodiversity conservation practitioners, 1 national biodiversity conservation manager, and 1 national and 4 provincial agricultural extension managers, selected by purposive sampling; as well as 25 extension officers and 8 farmers, selected by convenience sampling. The study found that extension mainly engages in technology transfer and distribution of production inputs, which poses challenges to biodiversity conservation. Extension shows little concern for biodiversity, and effectively promotes its degradation. Four sets of factors impacting extension's capacity to promote ecological agriculture emerged: household/community-level, governmental, extension management, and ecological factors. Key among these were inadequate involvement of youth and men in agriculture; inadequate household production resources; poor collaboration and coordination between extension and biodiversity conservation institutions; top-down extension intervention; poor extension management and delivery capacities; and irregular and inadequate rainfall, as well as droughts and flooding. The study concluded that there is a need for a clearly articulated extension and biodiversity conservation policy supporting appropriate linkages and better coordination and integration of services among extension and biodiversity agencies within the National and Provincial Departments of Agriculture and with farmers; more effective agricultural education in schools; strengthening extension support systems; and creating conducive atmospheres for effective extension.


The use of various grafts and flaps plays a critical role in the successful surgical management of urethral stricture disease. A thorough comprehension of relevant anatomy and principles of tissue transfer techniques are essential to understanding the appropriate use of grafts or flaps to optimize outcomes. We briefly review these principles and discuss which technique may be best suited for a given anterior urethral stricture, depending on the location and length of the stricture, the presence or absence of an intact corpus spongiosum, and the availability of adequate and healthy penile skin.


Under Principal-Agent-Supervisor paradigm, we examine in this paper how a tax collection agency changes optimal schemes in order to lessen the occurrence of corruption between the tax collector and the taxpayer. Indeed, the Principal, who maximizes the expected net fiscal revenue, reacts by decreasing tax rates when the supervisor is likely to engage in corrupt transaction with taxpayer. Therefore, the optimal policy against collusion and corruption may explain the rational of the greater reliance on indirect taxes than on direct taxes both in developed and developing countries.


Deformed xenolith (strain) data together with other structural information indicate that the biotite granite body (∼90 sq km) of the Strontian complex, Scotland, was emplaced in the extensional termination of a dextral transcurrent shear zone. This shear zone is a splay of the major Great Glen fault which lies along the southern boundary of the granite. Siting of the shear zone splay was probably controlled by (a) a slight releasing bend in the Great Glen fault in this area and (b) a large, pre-existing, asymetric synform in Proterozoic metasedimentary country rocks which intersects the Great Glen fault trace at a high angle. A model is proposed in which Moine Thrust (Caledonian) compression at ca. 435 Ma activated the Great Glen fault dextrally. Dextral movements around the releasing bend detached a flat segment from the inside fault wall, and the biotite granite was emplaced side-ways at depths of about 15 km as a sheet into this extensional, listric-fault-bounded, cavity.


Background : Childhood malnutrition is a major concern in developing countries due to high morbidity and mortality rate. To estimate the prevalence of malnutrition among school children, Kassala State, A cross-sectional study was conducted randomly among 2638 children. Height for age and body mass index for age z scores were calculated using WHO Anthro Plus software as indicators of stunting and thinness respectively. A multinomial logistic regression model was used to determine the associated factors. Results: The overall prevalence of stunted and thinness was 22.1% and 32.3% respectively. Stunting was significantly higher among children in age group 13-15 years old (OR 3.788; 95% CI: 2.802- 5.123), boys (OR 1.394; 95% CI: 1.114-1.743) and children from rural areas (OR 2.406; 95% CI: 1.768- 3.274). Likewise thinness was significantly higher among boys (OR 1.717; 95% CI: 1.436- 2.052), Rural residence (OR 1.885; 95% CI: 1.487- 2.389), child whose families depend on unsafe source of drinking water (OR 2.205; 95% CI: 1.484- 3.276). Moreover, children who skipped meal during the school day or bring their food from their houses OR 2.744; 95% CI: 2.131- 3.532, 1.752(95% CI: 1.441- 2.129) respectively). Maternal education and occupation, in addition to family size and child ordered had no effect on the prevalence of malnutrition. Conclusions: In the present study, different forms of malnutrition was documented and affected by child age, gender, residence, source of drinking water. Therefore, more attention is needed to focus on nutrition status, improving the school environment, maternal education, and regular health assessment.


Optimized sensing is important for computational imaging in low-resource environments, when images must be recovered from severely limited measurements. In this paper, we propose a physics-constrained, fully differentiable, autoencoder that learns a probabilistic sensor-sampling strategy for optimized sensor design. The proposed method learns a system's preferred sampling distribution that characterizes the correlations between different sensor selections as a binary, fully-connected Ising model. The learned probabilistic model is achieved by using a Gibbs sampling inspired network architecture, and is trained end-to-end with a reconstruction network for efficient co-design. The proposed framework is applicable to sensor selection problems in a variety of computational imaging applications. In this paper, we demonstrate the approach in the context of a very-long-baseline-interferometry (VLBI) array design task, where sensor correlations and atmospheric noise present unique challenges. We demonstrate results broadly consistent with expectation, and draw attention to particular structures preferred in the telescope array geometry that can be leveraged to plan future observations and design array expansions.


Using substrate transfer processes, we have fabricated heterojunction bipolar transistors with 0.4 /spl mu/m emitter-base and collector-base junctions, minimizing RC parasitics and increasing f/sub max/ to 820 GHz, the highest yet reported for a transistor. The process provides microstrip interconnects on a low-/spl epsiv//sub /spl tau// polymer dielectric with a electroplated copper ground plane and substrate. Substrate thermal resistance is reduced 5:1 over InP. Important wiring parasitics, including wiring capacitance, ground via inductance, and IC-package ground-return inductance, are substantially reduced. Demonstrated ICs include lumped and distributed amplifiers with bandwidths to 85 GHz, master-slave flip-flops operable at over 48 GHz, and 50 GHz AGC/limiting amplifiers. Current efforts include further improvement in bandwidth, development of power devices, and demonstration of more complex mixed-signal ICs.


In an NASA ground study, two forms of cognitive tests were evaluated in terms of their sensitivity to sleepiness induced by the drug promethazine (PMZ). Performance for the two test modes (Y1 and Y2), PMZ concentration, and a self‐reported sleepiness using the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS) were monitored for 12 h post dose. A problem arises when using KSS to establish an association between true sleepiness and performance because KSS scores are discrete and also because they tend to concentrate on certain values. Therefore, we define a latent sleepiness measure X* as an unobserved continuous random variable describing a subject's actual state of sleepiness. Under the assumption that drug concentration affects X*, which then affects Y1, Y2, and KSS, we use Bayesian methods to estimate joint equations that permit unbiased comparison of the performance measures' sensitivity to X*. The equations incorporate subject random effects and include a negativity constraint on subject‐specific slopes of performance with respect to sleepiness. Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


The study explores clean cooking fuel poverty in Bangladeshi households based on the energy ladder hypothesis stating that as income increases, households switch towards cleaner cooking fuels. Data from the Bangladesh Demographic and Household Survey (BDHS) 2017-18 reveals that 20.45% of households use advanced or cleaner cooking fuels, while a majority (79.23%) still rely on primitive or traditional cooking fuels. Electricity is used by a very small percentage (0.57%), while LPG is used by a slightly higher proportion (6.96%). Biogas usage is minimal (0.11%), and a small percentage (0.03%) still relies on kerosene. Wood is the dominant fuel (46.25%), and other minor sources include charcoal (0.10%), straw/shrubs/grass (0.63%), agricultural crop residues (25.96%), and animal dung (6.39%). The results reveal that only a small proportion of households (20.45%) are classified as "clean cooking fuel non-poor," indicating a limited adoption of cleaner cooking technologies in Bangladesh. Further analysis indicates a gradual increase in clean cooking fuel usage as wealth status improves. Only 0.25% of the poorest households use clean fuels, while the percentage increases to 0.68% in the "poorer" category, 3.92% in the "middle" wealth category, and 24.51% in the "richer" category. Among the wealthiest households, 70.64% use clean cooking fuels. The study highlights the urgent need for policymakers in Bangladesh to address clean cooking fuel poverty by implementing measures like subsidies, awareness campaigns, and infrastructure development to promote cleaner cooking technologies, thereby improving public health and environmental sustainability.


Vertically integrated divergences of time mean atmospheric energy fluxes are computed for various subareas of Europe using radiosonde data from 1974–1976, and are used, together with relevant information in the literature, to discuss the energy budget of the earth-atmosphere system for these areas. It is found that a reasonable budget can be obtained when the size of the area is not smaller than 6–7 · 10 6 km 2 . Considering the mainland of Europe, the convergence of the atmospheric total energy flux amounts to 55 ± 15 W/m 2 annually, which is comparable to satellite-based estimates of the net radiation flux, ?35 to ?70 W/m 2 , for the same region. This convergence is about twice as large as the corresponding zonally averaged convergence in the corresponding latitude belt. In the atmosphere, the combined mean-flow flux of sensible heat and potential energy is found to be the most important factor in the energy budget. However, the role of the transient eddies is also important, particularly in the convergence of latent heat and kinetic energy. The transient eddy flux divergences of total energy in winter act so as to dissipate the longitudinal anomalies of total energy. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1981.tb01758.x


Secret sharing is a cryptographic discipline in which the goal is to distribute information about a secret over a set of participants in such a way that only specific authorized combinations of participants together can reconstruct the secret. Thus, secret sharing schemes are systems of variables in which it is very clearly specified which subsets have information about the secret. As such, they provide perfect model systems for information decompositions. However, following this intuition too far leads to an information decomposition with negative partial information terms, which are difficult to interpret. One possible explanation is that the partial information lattice proposed by Williams and Beer is incomplete and has to be extended to incorporate terms corresponding to higher-order redundancy. These results put bounds on information decompositions that follow the partial information framework, and they hint at where the partial information lattice needs to be improved.


There are numerous methodologies available for developing and testing software. The methodology we choose depends on factors such as the nature of project, the project schedule, and resource availability. Although most software development projects involve periodic testing, some methodologies focus on getting the input from testing early in the cycle rather than waiting for input when a working model of the system is ready. Those methodologies that require early test involvement have several advantages, but also involve tradeoffs in terms of project management, schedule, customer interaction, budget, and communication among team members. Agile Testing is a set of timesaving techniques specifically designed to make the work of agile testing teams easier and more productive. It is an empowering process that produces great results and has a simple mission: Get the best possible testing results with the least amount of work. These challenge- and solution-based techniques do not require major changes in your existing workflow. We can adopt them in increments, which enables us to focus on one specific challenge and meet it head-on with a precise, targeted solution. Common challenges agile teams face and recommended solutions to handle them quickly and effectively .This paper discusses how testing fits and challenges into traditional/Agile methodology and then discusses the test-driven development practice in Agile Methodology in detail.


The purpose of this paper is to develop a general existence theory for constrained minimization problems for functionals defined on function spaces on metric measure spaces $(\mathcal M, d, \mu)$. We apply this theory to functionals defined on metric graphs $\mathcal G$, in particular $L^2$-constrained minimization problems for functionals of the form $$E(u) = \frac{1}{2} a(u,u) - \frac{1}{q}\int_{\mathcal K} |u|^q \, \mathrm dx,$$ where $q>2$, $a(\cdot, \cdot)$ is a suitable symmetric sesquilinear form on some function space on $\mathcal G$ and $\mathcal K \subseteq \mathcal G$ is given.
We show how the existence of solutions can be obtained via decomposition methods using spectral properties of the operator $A$ associated with the form $a(\cdot, \cdot)$ and discuss the spectral quantities involved. An example that we consider is the higher-order variant of the stationary NLS (nonlinear Schrodinger) energy functional with potential $V\in L^2+ L^\infty(\mathcal G)$ $$ E^{(k)}(u)= \frac{1}{2} \int_{\mathcal G} |u^{(k)}|^2+ V(x) |u|^2 \, \mathrm dx - \frac{1}{p} \int_{\mathcal K} |u|^q \, \mathrm dx$$ defined on a class of higher-order Sobolev spaces $H^k(\mathcal G)$ that we introduce. When $\mathcal K$ is a bounded subgraph, one has localized nonlinearities, which we treat as a special case. When $k=1$ we also consider metric graphs with infinite edge set as well as magnetic potentials. Then the operator $A$ associated to the linear form is a Schrodinger operator, and in the $L^2$-subcritical case $2<q<6$, we obtain generalizations of existence results for the NLS functional as for instance obtained by Adami, Serra and Tilli [JFA 271 (2016), 201-223], and Cacciapuoti, Finco and Noja [Nonlinearity 30 (2017), 3271-3303], among others.


A 5-degree of freedom (DOF) 5-UPS/PRPU parallel machine tool (PMT) with redundant actuation is introduced. The characteristic of the PMT is described. Based on the conventional Lagrange Equation, the dynamic formulation of this PMT with redundant actuation is derived. A novel force distribution method is proposed for redundant actuation. The constraint couple of the PRPU limb to the moving platform is deduced with the D' Alembert's principle. Then, the dynamic calculation of the redundant actuation limb is performed. Thus, the inverse dynamic solution can be derived. With ADAMS software, the three-dimensional entity model of the PMT is built and the dynamic simulations are carried out through some typical motion. The simulation results are consistent with the theoretical calculation, which proves the correctness of the theoretical deduction and the feasibility of the simulation analysis.


EpiCeram consists of a specific combination of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids that mimics those naturally found in the skin. EpiCeram was approved by the FDA in April 2006 for use as a nonsteroidal lipid barrier emulsion to manage symptoms of burning and itching associated with dry skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, radiation dermatitis and other dermatoses. EpiCeram has shown comparable efficacy to a mid-strength topical corticosteroid in a clinical study involving 113 children with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Unlike topical steroids and immunomodulators such as calcineurin inhibitors that have clinically well-recognized undesirable side effects and usage restrictions (including FDA black box warning for the latter), current data suggests that EpiCeram has a favorable safety profile. Additionally, EpiCeram does not appear to have substantial restrictions associated with its use, especially with regards to the duration of use or patient age, compared to the other classes of prescription products.


We introduce novel iterative and recursive joint estimators for the frequency offset and fading rate in mobile multipath channels. In essence, we show how the instantaneous values of the frequency offset and fading rate can be efficiently extracted from the estimated autoregressive channel parameters, which by themselves give a parametric description of the fading statistics (i.e. the scattering function of the channel). The estimated fading statistics can be exploited in designing advanced receiver and transmitter algorithms for future high bitrate and high mobility applications. Especially, an adaptivity of many transmitter algorithms like channel encoders, interleavers and modulators could be based on the estimated fading statistics rather than instantaneous channel conditions. At the receiver side, the channel equalizer, including the channel estimators, can be configured with the aid of estimated fading statistics.


The increasing interest in cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction has resulted in multiple international research projects and publications covering the manufacturing and performance of CLT. Multiple regions and countries have adopted provisions for CLT into their engineering design standards and building regulations. Designing and building CLT structures, also in earthquake-prone regions is no longer a domain for early adopters, but is becoming a part of regular timber engineering practice. The increasing interest in CLT construction has resulted in multiple regions and countries adopting provisions for CLT into their engineering design standards. However, given the economic and legal differences between each region, some fundamental issues are treated differently, particularly with respect to seismic design. This article reflects the state-of-the-art on seismic design of CLT buildings including both, the global perspective and regional differences comparing the seismic design practice in Europe, Canada, the United States, New Zealand, Japan, China, and Chile.


Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA

Abnormalities in androgen-androgen receptor (AR) axis have long been recognized for their roles in promoting prostate tumor growth and metastasis. Conventional therapies targeting androgen ablation show transient tumor regression, however, when the tumor recurs during castration-refractory metastatic stage, the current treatment options are very limited. Although the precise mechanism by which prostate cancer (PCa) cells circumvent the androgen deprivation is unclear, recurring tumors have been shown to retain AR activity and upregulation of AR-target gene expression such as prostate specific antigen (PSA), suggesting that targeting AR remains a key component of developing novel therapeutic strategies. Here, we show a profound effect of endostatin, an endogenous angiogenesis inhibitor, on proliferation and invasion of AR-positive PCa cells by targeting AR function. The present study identified that intracellular trafficking of endostatin and direct interaction with AR disrupts AR nuclear translocation and the consequent transcriptional activation of PSA gene. In addition, our structural modeling and site-directed mutagenesis studies suggest that the binding mechanism may include the interaction of bulky side chains (F31 and F34) present in endostatin with the co-activator binding interface (AF-2) in AR ligand-binding domain (LBD). Regarding drug resistance to the second-generation androgen antagonists in patients with metastatic PCa, recent studies revealed that a missense mutation in AR LBD (F876L) and the consequential antagonist-to-agonist switch confers continued AR activity. In this context, our study suggests that endostatin can be recognized as an endogenous AR inhibitor where its molecular interaction with AR may prevent from agonistic switch of AR function by fully masking the AF-2 subdomain. Overall, the current finding provides new insights into endostatin whose anti-cancer activity is not only limited to inhibiting angiogenesis, but can also be expanded to suppressing AR-mediated PCa progression by disrupting AR transactivation.

Citation Format: Joo Hyoung Lee, Tatyana Isayeva, Matthew Larson, Diptiman Chanda, Igor Chesnokov, Selvarangan Ponnazhagan. Endostatin is a novel inhibitor of androgen receptor function in prostate cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 612. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-612


Respiratory motion commonly confounds abdominal diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, where averaging of successive samples at different parts of the respiratory cycle, performed in the scanner, manifests the motion as blurring of tissue boundaries and structural features and can introduce bias into calculated diffusion metrics. Storing multiple averages separately allows processing using metrics other than the mean; in this prospective volunteer study, median and trimmed mean values of signal intensity for each voxel over repeated averages and diffusion-weighting directions are shown to give images with sharper tissue boundaries and structural features for moving tissues, while not compromising non-moving structures. Expert visual scoring of derived diffusion maps is significantly higher for the median than for the mean, with modest improvement from the trimmed mean. Diffusion metrics derived from mono- and bi-exponential diffusion models are comparable for non-moving structures, demonstrating a lack of introduced bias from using the median. The use of the median is a simple and computationally inexpensive alternative to complex and expensive registration algorithms, requiring only additional data storage (and no additional scanning time) while returning visually superior images that will facilitate the appropriate placement of regions-of-interest when analysing abdominal diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance images, for assessment of disease characteristics and treatment response.


Aim: The aims of this study are to investigate the effects of neurotransmitters NPY and CGRP on ERK signaling in fracture healing, and to identify the correlation between macrophage aggregation and fracture healing. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were used to build a fracture model. The neurotransmitter receptor inhibitors were injected intraperitoneally into the rats. Immunofluorescence staining and ELISA were employed to determine the expression of NPY and CGRP in fracture area and the peripheral blood, respectively. Micro-CT together with histological staining were utilized to assess the fracture healing conditions. Relative protein expression was determined using western blot. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the aggregation of macrophages in the injury area. Results: During fracture healing, the serum NPY and CGRP significantly increased. The levels of NPY and CGRP reached a peak in the 8th week and reduced significantly thereafter. NPY and CGRP inhibitors could inhibit fracture healing and down-regulate the phosphorylated ERK. Macrophages (NPY+ and CGRP+) aggregated in the injury area. Conclusion: NPY and CGRP participated in fracture healing, in which they were also shown to influence phosphorylated ERK expression. In addition, macrophages are involved in the fracture healing process.


Mobile learning as an alternative to today's adaptive learning services by the development of science and technology offers convenience, speed, flexibility, and attractiveness. In addition, the use of learning media is increasingly diverse and interactive, one of which is currently emerging is the use of augmented reality (AR) technology. It is necessary to develop a mobile learning application based on augmented reality for the material contained in the Mathematics Education II course at the PGSD FKIP Study Program at the Open University so that the material is easy to understand. The formulation of the research problem is how to develop the application. The purpose of this research is to develop to conduct a feasibility test of the application. The benefit of this research is knowing the steps taken in developing the application. The research method used is research and development (R&D) with a quantitative descriptive research approach with a questionnaire as a data collection technique. The stages of research and development are by the theory proposed by Borg & Gall. This research focuses on the application development section which consists of two stages. The first stage is the initial trial to create the content and appearance of the application. The second stage is the feasibility of the application according to language, material, and media experts. The results of this study are the quality and feasibility of a mobile learning application based on augmented reality building materials.

Keywords: mobile learning, augmented reality, application, learning media, geometry


Background Baker's cyst is the most common mass in the popliteal fossa and results from fluid distension of the gastrocnemio-semimembranosus bursa. The most common complication of Baker's cyst is the rupture or dissection of fluid into the adjacent proximal gastrocnemius muscle belly, which results in a pseudothrombophlebitis syndrome mimicking symptoms of DVT. Treatment of ruptured Baker cysts ranged from conservative management to surgical resection. Ultrasonographic guided aspiration and corticosteroids injection may be an effective and easy method of management of these cases. Up to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to detect the efficacy and safety of ultrasonographic guided aspiration and injections of ruptured Baker cysts. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasonographic guided aspiration and local corticosteroids of ruptured Baker cysts based on follow-up clinical and sonographic results. Methods A retrospective study was conducted on 42 patients (12 males and 30 females, mean age 36 +/- 10 SD years) affected by a ruptured Baker cysts associated to knee joint disorders in the period between January 2013 to January 2019.The diagnosis was done by clinical presentation of acute calf pain, swelling, tenderness at the calf muscles and ultrasonographic evidences of ruptured backer cysts in the form of free fluid collection in the calf connected to a well defined cyst at the back of knee. All cases were treated by ultrasonographic guided aspiration and intra_lesional injection of corticosteroids once or twice one week a part. Follow up were done on a weekly basis until complete resolution of symptoms then 3 months later. Visual analogue scale (VAS) for calf pain and Rauschning-Lindgren and Lysholm Knee Scoring Scales were used to assess pre/post-injection knee functions. Results The primary diagnoses to patients presented with ruptured Baker cyst in this study were as follow: 18 (42.8%) cases with rheumatoid arthritis, 15 (37.5%) cases with osteoarthritis and 9 (21.4%) cases with psoriatic arthritis. Clinical parameters (VAS for calf pain and Rauschning-Lindgren score) improved significantly in all patients at both post injection evaluation visits. Rauschning-Lindgren score was significantly lower after US guided injections (mean, 0; range, 0-1) than at baseline (mean, 2; range, 1–2); p < 0.001 (table1). VAS for calf pain also significantly lower after US guided injections (mean,0.5; range, 0-1) than at baseline (mean, 9.5; range, 0-10); p < 0.001. Ultrasonographic features improved significantly with complete disappearance of free fluid at the calf in 35 (83.3%) cases one week after the injection. As regards Baker cyst only 5 (11%) cases showed complete disappearance of the backer cyst and in the majority of cases 37 (88%) there were persistent Baker cysts. No side effects were reported in all cases.Abstract AB1121 Table 1 Clinical results of Baker cyst excision (Rauschning and Lindgren scale and VAS for calf pain) Pre injection 1 week later 3 months later grade 0 0 30 39 Grade 1 0 8 3 Grade 2 6 4 0 Grade3 36 0 0 VAS for calf pain 9.5 1.5 0.5 VAS; visual analogue scale Conclusion Ultrasonographic guided aspiration and intra_lesional corticosteroids injection is an effective and safe method in management of ruptured Baker cysts. References [1] Nigerian Journal of Orthopaedics and Trauma June 2009: 8 (1): 31-32 Disclosure of Interests None declared


Abstract After assessing the evidence on social class differences in the rates and nature of general practice consultations, the Black Report proposed that middle-class patients receive a better service from GPs than do their working-class contemporaries. This paper reviews the literature on which this suggestion is based and presents further evidence from a study of communication in general practice, as to the extent and nature of social class differences in consultations.

The results of the study suggest that middle-class patients are more active than working-class patients in presenting their ideas to the doctor and in seeking further explanation of his views from him or her. However, this greater activity does not necessarily mean that middle-class patients get more benefit from the consultation, at least in terms of its cognitive outcomes: similar proportions of working-class and middle-class patients received explanations from the doctor and similar proportions misunderstood and rejected his views and advice. These findings point to the important distinction between 'process' and 'outcome' and underline the need for further research which assesses social class differences in the outcomes as well as the processes of consultations.


Ivermectin is a worldwide used antiparasitic compound acting against both endo- and ecto parasites of livestock. Ivermectin can reach the environment through the direct emission of dung from livestock on pasture and via manure application on agricultural lands. Due to its very high acute toxicity to many invertebrates, especially to D. magna, the excretion profile of ivermectin in dung after application is essential for assessing its potential effects on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The aim of this article is to characterize the excretion profile, comparing plasma and dung levels, after a single subcutaneous dose to cattle, to be used in environmental risk assessment. The cumulative curve of excreted ivermectin was used to calculate the PEC dung in manure to be used as fertilizer. The potential hazard for dung fauna, aquatic and soil organism is presented through the combination of toxicity and excretion levels. Three hazard levels, offering the relevant information to veterinarians prescribing the drug, are presented.


Iron supplementation reduces the frequency and severity of breath-holding attacks (BHAs), particularly in children with iron deficiency. The issue of iron supplementation is less clear for Westernized children with BHAs who present to an outpatient community clinic and are not iron-deficient. This is the first reported case series of iron-replete children with frequent and disabling breath-holding attacks who have responded to a course of oral iron supplementation. This intervention is safe, improves quality of life for both child and carer, and is significantly cost-effective in terms of health resource utilization.


BACKGROUND
Despite great improvements in prevention over the last years, much has to be done to reduce new human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. Substantial evidence shows that the six-month period of recent HIV infection contributes disproportionately to HIV transmission.

OBJECTIVE
This study aims to investigate knowledge, normative beliefs, and attitudes of people who inject drugs (PWID) regarding recent HIV infection.

METHODS
People who inject drugs in Athens, Greece were recruited in the fifth round of a respondent- driven sampling program (ARISTOTLE). The participants were tested for HIV and answered a structured questionnaire, which also included items on knowledge, normative beliefs, and attitudes regarding recent infection to address needs of the social network-based Transmission Reduction Intervention Project. The multivariable analyses included logistic regression models, which produced odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS
In total, 1,407 people (mean age: 36.3 ± 7.9 years old; males: 81.9%) took part in the fifth round of ARISTOTLE. Of these, 61.5% knew that HIV-infected people who are not on treatment are more likely to transmit HIV during the first six months of their infection and 58.4% reported that people in their network would react positively towards a recently HIV-infected person. People who inject drugs who were knowledgeable of recent HIV infection were more likely to disagree with statements such as that one should avoid all contact with a person recently infected by HIV (adjusted OR: 1.510, 95% CI: 1.090, 2.091) or more likely to agree with statements such as that an HIV+ person is much less likely to transmit HIV when h/she is on combination antiretroviral treatment (adjusted OR: 2.083, 95% CI: 1.231, 3.523).

CONCLUSION
A considerable proportion of PWID in Athens, Greece, were aware of the high HIV transmission risk of recent HIV infection, although improvement is needed for some population segments. People who inject drugs who were knowledgeable of the role of recent HIV infection were more likely to have normative beliefs and attitudes that favor behaviors that could help rather than harm or stigmatize people who have recently been infected with HIV. Interventions that are based on the role of recent HIV infection in HIV transmission could be important to HIV prevention.


Abstract Darrall-Jones, JD, Jones, B, and Till, K. Anthropometric, sprint, and high-intensity running profiles of English academy rugby union players by position. J Strength Cond Res 30(5): 1348–1358, 2016—The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anthropometric, sprint, and high-intensity running profiles of English academy rugby union players by playing positions, and to investigate the relationships between anthropometric, sprint, and high-intensity running characteristics. Data were collected from 67 academy players after the off-season period and consisted of anthropometric (height, body mass, sum of 8 skinfolds [∑SF]), 40-m linear sprint (5-, 10-, 20-, and 40-m splits), the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1 (Yo-Yo IRTL-1), and the 30-15 intermittent fitness test (30-15 IFT). Forwards displayed greater stature, body mass, and ∑SF; sprint times and sprint momentum, with lower high-intensity running ability and sprint velocities than backs. Comparisons between age categories demonstrated body mass and sprint momentum to have the largest differences at consecutive age categories for forwards and backs; whereas 20–40-m sprint velocity was discriminate for forwards between under 16s, 18s, and 21s. Relationships between anthropometric, sprint velocity, momentum, and high-intensity running ability demonstrated body mass to negatively impact on sprint velocity (10 m; r = −0.34 to −0.46) and positively affect sprint momentum (e.g., 5 m; r = 0.85–0.93), with large to very large negative relationships with the Yo-Yo IRTL-1 (r = −0.65 to −0.74) and 30-15 IFT (r = −0.59 to −0.79). These findings suggest that there are distinct anthropometric, sprint, and high-intensity running ability differences between and within positions in junior rugby union players. The development of sprint and high-intensity running ability may be impacted by continued increases in body mass as there seems to be a trade-off between momentum, velocity, and the ability to complete high-intensity running.


The major aim of a Mobile network system is to provide premium Quality of Service (QoS) to the user by an establishment of guaranteed seamless connection between the users. The radio signal strength has been regularly measured from mobile station and BTS in a cellular network. If the BTS detects a decrease in the radio signal, it initiates a handoff request. Many parameters have been effected by the handoff decision. In this paper, a proposed algorithm has been presented to track the mobile location, distance, and velocity by using Kalman filter, while, monitoring the mobile direction, and measure RSS. Then applying the Fuzzy Membership Function of RSS and distance to decide the handoff decision. From the results, it is cleared the advancement in the handoff performance. Key-Words: Handoff, Wireless Network, handover management. Kalman filter, Fuzzy.


Background Plantar heel pain (PHP) is common. Foot orthoses are often applied as treatment for PHP, even though there is little evidence to support this. Objective To investigate the effects of different orthoses on pain, function and self-reported recovery in patients with PHP and compare them with other conservative interventions. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Data sources A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, CINAHL and Google Scholar up to January 2017. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies Randomised controlled trials comparing foot orthoses with a control (defined as no intervention, sham or other type of conservative treatment) reporting on pain, function or self-reported recovery in patients with PHP. Results Twenty studies investigating eight different types of foot orthoses were included in the review. Most studies were of high quality. Pooled data from six studies showed no difference between prefabricated orthoses and sham orthoses for pain at short term (mean difference (MD) of 0.26 (95% CI −0.09 to 0.60)). No difference was found between sham orthoses and custom orthoses for pain at short term (MD 0.22 (95% CI −0.05 to 0.50)), nor was there a difference between prefabricated orthoses and custom orthoses for pain at short term (MD 0.03 (95% CI −0.15 to 0.22)). For the majority of other interventions, no significant differences were found. Conclusions Foot orthoses are not superior for improving pain and function compared with sham or other conservative treatment in patients with PHP. PROSPERO registration number CRD42015029659.


Parameterized algorithms are a very useful tool for dealing with NP-hard problems on graphs. Yet, to properly utilize parameterized algorithms it is necessary to choose the right parameter based on the type of problem and properties of the target graph class. Tree-width is an example of a very successful graph parameter, however it cannot be used on dense graph classes and there also exist problems which are hard even on graphs of bounded tree-width. Such problems can be tackled by using vertex cover as a parameter, however this places severe restrictions on admissible graph classes.
Michael Lampis has recently introduced neighborhood diversity, a new graph parameter which generalizes vertex cover to dense graphs. Among other results, he has shown that simple parameterized algorithms exist for a few problems on graphs of bounded neighborhood diversity. Our article further studies this area and provides new algorithms parameterized by neighborhood diversity for the p-Vertex-Disjoint Paths, Graph Motif and Precoloring Extension problems -- the latter two being hard even on graphs of bounded tree-width.


The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of sports education on university students' strategies to cope with stress. 150 sports sciences and 150 education faculty students participated in the study. "Ways of Coping Inventory" scale was used as data collection tool in the study. Mann Whitney U test was performed in statistical processes. In terms of the faculty variable, the scores of the sports science faculty students who received Social Sports education in the subdimension of "self-confident approach" and "optimistic approach" were found higher than the students who did not receive sports education (p <0.05).In addition, it was determined that the students of the education faculty who did not receive sports education had high scores from the sports science students who received sports education under the sub-dimension of "self-confident approach" and "social support seeking approach" (p <0.05). According to gender, it was determined that the scores that men got from the Self-Confident and Optimistic approach subdimensions were statistically higher than those of women (p <0.01). Result: It is concluded that sports education at university level has a positive effect on students' strategies to cope with stress. It can be said that taking sports education is effective in increasing self-confident and optimistic approach and accordingly developing self-confidence. It is recommended that feelings of selfconfidence of faculty students who do not have sports education should be raised by giving courses and seminars on sports.


Bacchus ( Vitis vinifera L.) vines trained to a vertical canopy were subjected in the 1991 to 1993 growing seasons to one of three spray materials for the control of powdery mildew: distilled water (control); Kumulus S (micronized sulfur; commercial control); and potassium silicate (K 2 SiO 3 ). In 1991 infection on berries and shoots of K 2 SiO 3 -treated vines was equal to that on Kumulus S vines at veraison and mid-Stage III, but exceeded Kumulus S by harvest in 1991. In 1992 and 1993, both spray materials exceeded the control treatment in terms of mildew control, based upon harvest infection ratings; K 2 SiO 3 equalled Kumulus S in 1992 but failed to provide the same level of control under heavy disease pressure in 1993. Triangle tests on 1991 and 1992 wines showed no aroma or flavor differences between Kumulus S and K 2 SiO 3 treatments, but tasters could distinguish between control wines and the other two treatments in the 1991 wines (tank samples and aged wines), and between 1992 control and Kumulus S wines. Yields were lowest in control plots in all three seasons, and control vines also produced lowest cluster weights and berry weights in 1993. No noteworthy differences were observed between treatments in terms of composition of berries, juices, or wines. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis of the control and Kumulus S-treated berries showed large quantities of Si deposited near infection sites and hyphae, suggesting that grape berries may utilize endogenous Si to help fight disease. This suggests that exogenously applied silicates may act to augment the activity of their endogenous counterparts. At appropriate application intervals and concentration, K 2 SiO 3 has potential as an alternative spray material to sulfur for powdery mildew control, because: (1) material cost is lower; (2) risk of H 2 S in wines is reduced; and (3) it would potentially fall within guidelines for "organic" winegrowers as a natural substance.


Chemopreventive retinoids may be more effective if delivered to the lung epithelium by inhalation. 13-cis-Retinoic acid (13-cis-RA) was comparable to all-trans-retinoic acid (RA) in inducing transglutaminase II (TGase II) in cultured human cells. Inhaled 13-cis-RA had a significant stimulatory activity on TGase II in rat lung (P < 0.001) but not in liver tissue (P < 0.544). Furthermore, inhaled 13-cis-RA at daily deposited doses of 1.9 mg/kg/day up-regulated the expression of lung retinoic acid receptors (RARs) alpha, beta, and gamma at day 1 (RARalpha by 3.4-fold, RARbeta by 7.2-fold, and RARgamma by 9.7-fold) and at day 17 (RARalpha by 4.2-fold, RARbeta by 10.0-fold, and RARgamma by 12.9-fold). At a lower aerosol concentration, daily deposited doses of 0.6 mg/kg/day were also effective at 28 days. Lung RARalpha was induced by 4.7-fold, RARbeta by 8.0-fold, and RARgamma by 8.1-fold. Adjustment of dose by exposure duration was also effective; thus, inhalation of an aerosol concentration of 62.2 microg/liter, for durations from 5 to 240 min daily for 14 days, induced all RARs from 30.6- to 74-fold at the shortest exposure time. None of the animals exposed to 13-cis-RA aerosols showed RAR induction in livers. By contrast, a diet containing pharmacological RA (30 microg/g of diet) failed to induce RARs in SENCAR mouse lung, although it induced liver RARs (RARalpha, 21.8-fold; RARbeta, 13.5-fold; RARgamma, 12.5-fold); it also failed to induce lung TGase II. A striking increase of RARalpha expression was evident in the nuclei of hepatocytes. Pharmacological dietary RA stimulated RARalpha, RARbeta, and RARgamma as early as day 1 by 2-, 4-, and 2.1-fold, respectively, without effect on lung RARs. Therefore, 13-cis-RA delivered to lung tissue of rats is a potent stimulant of lung but not liver RARs. Conversely, dietary RA stimulates liver but not lung RARs. These data support the concept that epithelial delivery of chemopreventive retinoids to lung tissue is a more efficacious way to attain up-regulation of TGase II and the retinoid receptors and possibly to achieve chemoprevention.


We conduct a thorough investigation into the reasoning capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs), focusing specifically on the Open Pretrained Transformers (OPT) models as a representative of such models. Our study entails finetuning three different sizes of OPT on a carefully curated reasoning corpus, resulting in two sets of finetuned models: OPT-R, finetuned without explanations, and OPT-RE, finetuned with explanations. We then evaluate all models on 57 out-of-domain tasks drawn from the Super-NaturalInstructions benchmark, covering 26 distinct reasoning skills, utilizing three prompting techniques. Through a comprehensive grid of 27 configurations and 6,156 test evaluations, we investigate the dimensions of finetuning, prompting, and scale to understand the role of explanations on different reasoning skills. Our findings reveal that having explanations in the fewshot exemplar has no significant impact on the model's performance when the model is finetuned, while positively affecting the non-finetuned counterpart. Moreover, we observe a slight yet consistent increase in classification accuracy as we incorporate explanations during prompting and finetuning, respectively. Finally, we offer insights on which reasoning skills benefit the most from incorporating explanations during finetuning and prompting, such as Numerical (+20.4%) and Analogical (+13.9%) reasoning, as well as skills that exhibit negligible or negative effects.


A 58 year old man presented with skin manifestations of scleroderma without systemic involvement. Within few weeks of oral corticosteroids and penicillamine therapy, rapidly progressive systemic sclerosis developed. The deterioration manifested by skin lesions, diffuse interstitial restrictive lung disease, acute renal failure with normal blood pressure values, and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia compatible with hemolytic uremic syndrome. Chronic renal failure developed and was treated by dialysis, but the patient died due to sepsis. The course of renal involvement was normotensive; antihypertensive therapy was not prescribed even once. The association of scleroderma renal crisis with normal blood pressure is probably a rare and ominous combination.


The initial energy deposition stage of the thermoluminescent (TL) process is investigated. A coupled ion-electron Monte Carlo (MC) transport code developed for LiF considering its solid-state nature is used to obtain radial dose distributions for incident proton and helium ions at several energies. Models which relate the initial energy deposition to the final TL light emission are used to predict TL efficiencies. Track structure theory (TST) efficiency calculations using the MC radial dose distributions and target sizes of 50, 100 and 150 A were performed for the total signal of LiF. Comparison with recent high linear energy transfer (LET) efficiency measurements suggests a value for the target size within the interval 50-100 A. Modified TST (MTST) proton-to-gamma and helium-to-gamma relative TL efficiency calculations were performed with the MC radial dose distributions and 8.1 keV x-rays as test radiation. It is found that both theories show good agreement with the data, though both predict an energy dependence stronger than observed. A `core radius' for a given ion may be found by applying MTST. The importance of the cut-off energy for secondary electron generation in the MC code is discussed. The fraction of ion energy deposited by the secondary electrons around the heavy charged particle (HCP) path obtained from the MC simulation is in accordance with known values. This work includes solid-state effects in the calculated radial dose distributions in LiF providing dose profiles which are necessary for the calculation of efficiency values and may prove to be essential for further understanding of HCP induced thermoluminescence in LiF.


We examined the relative contributions of three representative candidate genes for atopy (Fc ε receptor I β, IL-4, and IL-4 receptor α) to the development of atopic asthma. Four polymorphisms of the three candidate genes including Ile50Val and Gln551Arg of IL-4 receptor α, -590C/T of IL-4 promoter and Glu237Gly of Fc ε receptor I β were studied in 100 patients with atopic asthma and 100 nonatopic controls in the northern Kyushu area in Japan. Among the four polymorphisms of the three candidate genes, the Ile50 allele of the IL-4 receptor α chain gene demonstrated an association with atopic asthma subjects (p = 0.044), especially in patients with onset at 2 years of age or earlier (p = 0.034) and in patients with moderate to severe atopic asthma (p = 0.031). Gln551Arg of IL-4 receptor α, -590C/T of IL-4 promoter and Glu237Gly of Fc ε receptor I β showed no association with atopic asthma. A slight linkage disequilibrium between Ile50Val and Gln551Arg polymorphisms of the IL-4 receptor α chain gene was observed in both patients and nonatopic controls. The identification of additional atopy genes in areas with a certain genetic background is essential for genetic diagnosis and to establish new therapeutic modalities for atopic asthma.


Overall: The article present numerous LES of both single rotor and multi-rotor consisting of 4 turbines. The different turbine configurations are compared, including the effects of tip spacing in the multi-rotor, thrust coefficient asn turbine spacing for farm scenarios. Additionally, the authors compare to the analytical model by Bastankhah and Porté-Agel. The article follows a number of other recent articles on multi-rotors and provides new results. The article is generally well-written and the results are in-


In order to prepare intermediate for further transformation of penicillins), and to obtain new derivatives with enlarged spectrum of biological activity some semi-synthetic phenoxyalkanepenicillins were subjected to the esterification, amidation and hydroxyamidation reactions. Hydroxyamidation i.e. synthesis of corresponding penicilline-hydroxamic acids was a complex reaction depending on the structure of hydroxylamine used. The two-directional reaction course, with beta-lactam bond splitting, was specific for unsubstituted hydroxylamine only. A number of new penicilline hydroxamic acids and N-methoxypenicilline amides, with intact and cleaved beta-lactam ring were synthesized.


Surface roughness plays an important role in machine design. In the micro-scale when two engineering surfaces are brought into contact, the real contact area occurs at isolated point of asperity. Wear is one of some effects of contacting surfaces. This paper presents a modeling of sliding wear at asperity level on the artificial rough surfaces. The surface roughness is represented by spherical asperities at the hemispherical pin that is developed from the existing model. The wear model is based on the simple analytical solution. The combination of Archard's wear equation and finite element simulation is performed to predict the wear. Results show that the increasing of sliding distance give the increasing of wear depth, wear scar diameter and wear volume of the asperity. Wear at the center of the contacting rough surface is higher than the its surrounding. [Keywords: Rough Surface; Sliding Wea; Wear Scar Diameter; Wear Volume]


A thorough arthroscopic examination was performed in 90 consecutive patients with sprained knee injuries with hemarthrosis, but without signs of instability or fracture. The source of bleeding was found in all but five joints. Thirty-nine injuries were tears of the cruciate ligament, only three of which were complete tears. Fourteen injuries were (osteo)chondral fractures and six were meniscal lesions. The remainder bled from the synovium or meniscal attachments. The arthroscopic examination resulted in an altered course of treatment in few, if any, of these patients.


Objective: Evaluate the dose-ranging safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of CBD in children with Dravet syndrome (DS). Background: Data from a US expanded access program suggest that CBD may be an effective antiepileptic treatment; this is the first controlled safety and PK trial of CBD in DS. Design/Methods: After a 4-week baseline period, patients aged 4–10 years were randomized 4:1 to 1 of 3 doses of CBD (5, 10, 20 mg/kg/day) or placebo as add-on therapy for 3 weeks. CBD (25 or 100 mg/mL oral solution) was administered BID starting at 2.5 mg/kg/day and increasing by 2.5 mg/kg QOD to the randomized dose. On Days 1 and 22, PK exposures were expressed as AUC 0–t . Dose proportionality was assessed on Day 22 by regression analysis. Adverse events (AEs) were recorded daily. Results: 34 patients were randomized to CBD 5mg (n=10), 10mg (n=8), 20mg (n=9), or placebo (n=7); 2 patients on CBD withdrew. Demographics were similar across groups with patients taking a median 3 antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Most common AEs were somnolence, pyrexia, decreased appetite, and sedation. Treatment-related serious AEs were reported in 2 patients on CBD. Increases in ALT or AST (levels >3× ULN) occurred in 6 patients on CBD, all on valproic acid (VPA); none had elevated bilirubin and all recovered. On Day 22, exposures to CBD and its major metabolites increased dose-proportionally; plasma concentrations of the metabolite of clobazam (CLB), N-CLB, increased independent of CBD dose, except in patients on stiripentol (STP). There was no demonstrable effect on other AEDs (VPA, topiramate, STP, levetiracetam). Conclusions: CBD was well tolerated at the doses investigated. Exposure to CBD and its metabolites increased doseproportionally. A PK interaction of CBD on N-CLB was observed, likely mediated through CYP2C19 inhibition, except with STP possibly due to prior saturated inhibition of CYP2C19 by STP. (NCT02091206) Study Supported by: GW Research, Ltd Disclosure: Dr. Patel has received personal compensation from GW Pharmaceuticals and Liva Nova as a consultant and Supernus for serving on the Scientific Advisory Board. Dr. Patel has received research support from GW Pharmaceuticals, Upsher Smith, Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation, and Brain Sentinel. Dr. Devinsky has received personal compensation for activities with MiaMed. Dr. Devinsky has received personal compensation for serving on the board of MiaMed and Pairnomix. Dr. Devinsky has received research support from GW Pharma and Novartis. Dr. Thiele has received personal compensation for activities with GW Pharma, Zogenix, Eisai Pharmaceuticals, Dravet, Lennox Gastaut and TSC as a consultant or PI. Dr. Thiele has received research support from GW Pharma and Zogenix. Dr. Wong has received research support from GW Pharmaceuticals and from Wake Forest University. Dr. Appleton has received personal compensation for activities with GW Pharma and Novartis. Dr. Harden has received royalty payments from Wiley and Up-to-date. Dr. Sommerville has received personal compensation for activities with King Pharmaceuticals as an employee. Dr. Sommerville holds stock and/or stock options in GW, Abbott, Abbvie, Johnson and Johnson, Mylan, and Merck. Dr. Greenwood has nothing to disclose. Dr. Morrison has nothing to disclose.


One of the ingredients used for brewing is barley, which should be malted; it is considered the most polluting agricultural input. On the other hand, food wastage is today a widespread problem that causes significant environmental damage and also generates large economic losses worldwide. One of the most wasted food products is bread; it is estimated that hundreds of tons of bread are wasted every day worldwide. In this study, the brewing of ale beers with bread was carried out. For this purpose, up to 50% of the malt weight was replaced by different types of bread: wheat bread, whole wheat bread, rye bread, and corn bread. A physicochemical and sensory comparison was made with 100% malt ale beer. All beers brewed with bread had an alcoholic strength similar to that of the control beer, except the corn beer. Beers brewed with whole grain bread showed a higher antioxidant capacity and a higher total polyphenol content. The sensory analysis presented different profiles depending on the type of bread; in general, the addition of bread created a greater olfactory intensity in nose. Thus, it was found that it is possible to brew beer with bread substituting up to 50% of the malt. In addition, it was also shown that the beer brewed with whole wheat bread had similar characteristics to the control beer, even improving some beneficial health properties, representing a great advantage for the brewing industry all over the world.


The development of three dimensional (3D) cell cultures represents a big step for the better understanding of cell behavior and disease in a more natural like environment, providing not only single but multiple cell type interactions in a complex 3D matrix, highly resembling physiological conditions. Light sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) is becoming an excellent tool for fast imaging of such 3D biological structures. We demonstrate the potential of this technique for the imaging of human differentiated 3D neural aggregates in fixed and live samples, namely calcium imaging and cell death processes, showing the power of imaging modality compared with traditional microscopy. The combination of light sheet microscopy and 3D neural cultures will open the door to more challenging experiments involving drug testing at large scale as well as a better understanding of relevant biological processes in a more realistic environment.


To investigate the anti-tumor activities of lactoferrin, α-lactalbumin, and β-lactoglobulin, 4 types of human tumor cells (lung tumor cell A549, intestinal epithelial tumor cell HT29, hepatocellular cell HepG2, and breast cancer cell MDA231-LM2) were exposed to 3 proteins, respectively. The effects on cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were detected in vitro, and nude mice bearing tumors were administered the 3 proteins in vivo. Results showed that the 3 proteins (20 g/L) inhibited viability and migration, as well as induced apoptosis, in 4 tumor cells to different degrees (compared with the control). In vivo, tumor weights in the HT29 group (0.84 ± 0.22 g vs. control 2.05 ± 0.49 g) and MDA231-LM2 group (1.11 ± 0.25 g vs. control 2.49 ± 0.57 g) were significantly reduced by lactoferrin; tumor weights in the A549 group (1.07 ± 0.19 g vs. control 3.11 ± 0.73 g) and HepG2 group (2.32 ± 0.46 g vs. control 3.50 ± 0.74 g) were significantly reduced by α-lactalbumin. Moreover, the roles of lactoferrin, α-lactalbumin, and β-lactoglobulin in regulating apoptotic proteins were validated. In summary, lactoferrin, α-lactalbumin, and β-lactoglobulin were proven to inhibit growth and development of A549, HT29, HepG2, and MDA231-LM2 tumors to different degrees via induction of cell apoptosis.


The prognosis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients depends on liver-related events (LREs), extrahepatic cancers, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). The fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index is one of the most reliable and useful predictors of the degree of liver fibrosis. Recent studies have reported that the FIB-4 index is also useful for predicting LREs and MACEs in NAFLD patients. In the present study, we investigated the prognostic value of the FIB-4 index in NAFLD patients. A total of 506 biopsy-confirmed NAFLD patients from six hepatology centers in Japan from 2002 to 2013 were enrolled in this study. Of these NAFLD patients, 353 were available for more than 100 days of follow-up and did not exhibit events (LREs, extrahepatic cancers, MACEs) at the time of entry. The mean follow-up duration of all the subjects was 2716 ± 1621 days (102–7483 days). New LREs (hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (n = 8), decompensation (n = 11), bleeding varices (n = 8)) developed in 18 patients. Twenty-four and twelve patients developed extrahepatic cancers and MACEs, respectively. The median FIB-4 index was 1.255; we divided our cohort into two groups according to this (FIB4 Low, FIB4 Hi). The incidence of HCC tended to be higher in FIB4 Hi (n = 7) than in FIB4 Low (n = 1). The incidence of LREs was significantly higher in FIB4 Hi (n = 17) than in FIB4 Low (n = 1). The incidence of extrahepatic cancers was significantly higher in FIB4 Hi (n = 20) than in FIB4 Low (n = 4); the incidence of MACEs was also significantly higher in FIB4 Hi (n = 10) than in FIB4 Low (n = 2). The FIB-4 index is a useful biomarker for predicting not only LREs but also extrahepatic cancers and MACEs.


Graphene demonstrates many exceptional properties that makes it a promising candidate in various applications, such as electronics, energy-related and biomedical. However, there are still many challenges remaining to realize graphene's fullest extent possible. In recent years, graphene functionalization has become the primary driving force for enhancing the performance of graphene-based devices. Among the various approaches of graphene functionalization, molecular adsorption has received growing attention due to its low cost, flexibility and effectiveness in controlling the properties of graphene. Here, density functional calculations are employed to investigate three specific graphene-molecule systems used for electronic, catalytic and sensing applications, focusing on the interplay between graphene and adsorbed molecules. Major challenges facing functionalized graphene are thoroughly examined and discussed, such as identifying novel adsorbates, refining surface conditions, and strengthening electronic signals arising from graphene-molecule interactions. The work presented in this thesis aims to
 provide critical theoretical insights into the electronic structure of graphene modified by molecular adsorption, and help the design and development of future graphene-based devices.


Intrinsically generated neural activity propagates through the developing auditory system to promote maturation and refinement of sound processing circuits prior to hearing onset. This early patterned activity is induced by non-sensory supporting cells in the organ of Corti, which are highly interconnected through gap junctions containing connexin 26 (Gjb2). Although loss of function mutations in Gjb2 impair cochlear development and are the most common cause of congenital deafness, it is not known if these mutations disrupt spontaneous activity and the developmental trajectory of sound processing circuits in the brain. Here, we show in a new mouse model of Gjb2-mediated congenital deafness that cochlear supporting cells unexpectedly retained intercellular coupling and the capacity to generate spontaneous activity, exhibiting only modest deficits prior to hearing onset. This coordinated activation of IHCs led to coincident bursts of activity in central auditory neurons that will later process similar frequencies of sound. Despite alterations in the structure of the sensory epithelium, hair cells within the cochlea of Gjb2 deficient mice were intact and central auditory neurons could be activated within appropriate tonotopic domains by loud sounds at hearing onset, indicating that early maturation and refinement of auditory circuits was preserved. Only after cessation of spontaneous activity following hearing onset did progressive hair cell degeneration and enhanced auditory neuron excitability manifest. This preservation of cochlear spontaneous activity in the absence of connexin 26 may increase the effectiveness of early therapeutic interventions to restore hearing.


Catching Babies is a meticulously researched work that examines the shift from midwife- to physician-attended births in four counties in Wisconsin between 1870 and 1920. Using information gleaned from Wisconsin's vital statistics records, midwife license applications, the Milwaukee Health Department Physicians' Register, the US Children's Bureau, census data, and contemporary medical journal articles, Charlotte G. Borst has carefully reconstructed the practice and culture of Wisconsin's midwives at the turn of the 20th century. Borst divides the 893 midwives who form the basis of her study into three types of practitioners. "Neighbor women" from rural areas acted as occasional midwives to family members and friends. For these rural midwives, who attended six or fewer births a year, midwifery was part of the "strategy of neighborliness." A second group of practitioners, "apprentice-trained midwives," learned their craft from older, more experienced midwives or from local physicians. Finally, "school-educated midwives," who were overwhelmingly first


Previous research using French material and subjects has found that noun-adjective pairs are easier to recall than adjective-noun pairs, which suggests that linguistic rules are important in determining performance. However, experiments using English material have also suggested that noun-adjective phrases are easier, although in English these pairs violate grammatical conventions. The latter findings have been interpreted as supporting the view that mental imagery is important in remembering. However, these studies are faulty in various respects. In an experiment on free recall, using English material, the grammatical order (adjective-noun) was found to produce better performance than the reversed order (noun-adjective), but only because reversed phrases tended to be reported in the conventional order. This supports the original view that grammatical constraints affect recall.


In order to extract information about the properties of compact binaries, we must estimate the noise power spectral density of gravitational-wave data, which depends on the properties of the gravitational-wave detector. In practice, it is not possible to know this perfectly, only to estimate it from the data. Multiple estimation methods are commonly used and each has a corresponding statistical uncertainty. However, this uncertainty is widely ignored when measuring the physical parameters describing compact binary coalescences, and the appropriate likelihoods which account for the uncertainty are not well known. In order to perform increasingly precise astrophysical inference and model selection, it will be essential to account for this uncertainty. In this work, we derive the correct likelihood for one of the most widely used estimation methods in gravitational-wave transient analysis, the median average. We demonstrate that simulated Gaussian noise follows the predicted distributions. We then examine real gravitational-wave data at and around the time of GW151012, a relatively low-significance binary black hole merger event. We show that the data are well described by stationary-Gaussian noise and explore the impact of different noise power spectral density estimation methods on the astrophysical inferences we draw about GW151012.


This paper presents an incremental approach based on the theories of continuum damage and anisotropic plasticity to model the forces that develop during timber cutting. The model used is based on the thermodynamics of irreversible processes with state variables and takes into account the coupling among orthotropic elasticity, anisotropic plasticity, and damage. The aim is to contribute to the development of simulation tools needed to optimize industrial cutting processes. Validation of the model, implemented using existing finite-element (FE) software, is carried out by simulating the forces that develop during the cutting of wooden planks and tree trunks of different timber species. It was found that there is good agreement between the predicted and measured cutting forces.


Long term antiretroviral therapy can lead to children body change due to the abnormal fat accumulation, increased level of blood cholesterol and glucose, lipodystrophy, metabolic change, and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Arthrospira platensis is a kind of Cyanobacteria that is safe to consume. It has a high nutritional level and contain HIV-1 inhibitor substances. Arthrospira plantesos contains 70% of protein, vitamin B-12, B-carotene, minerals especially zinc, tocopherol, and a-linolenic acid. Besides, Arthrospira plantesis also contains sulfated hemopolisaccharide substance which is called calcium-spirulan like substance that acts as inhibitor of HIV-1 replication. Hence, Arthrospira plantesis is a potential therapy for children with HIV without disturbing their growth and development.   Key word: Arthrospira platensis, children, positive HIV


ABSTRACT Cytochrome P450 BM-3, a self-sufficient P450 enzyme fromBacillus megaterium that catalyzes the subterminal hydroxylation of long-chain fatty acids, has been engineered into a catalyst for the oxidation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The activities of a triplet mutant (A74G/F87V/L188Q) towards naphthalene, fluorene, acenaphthene, acenaphthylene, and 9-methylanthracene were 160, 53, 109, 287, and 22/min, respectively. Compared with the activities of the wild type towards these polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, those of the mutant were improved by up to 4 orders of magnitude. The coupling efficiencies of the mutant towards naphthalene, fluorene, acenaphthene, acenaphthylene, and 9-methylanthracene were 11, 26, 5.4, 15, and 3.2%, respectively, which were also improved several to hundreds fold. The high activities of the mutant towards polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons indicate the potential of engineering P450 BM-3 for the biodegradation of these compounds in the environment.


Crosslinguistically vocatives are an underexplored linguistic phenomenon and in different languages they can be highly idiosyncratic and complex (Levinson, 1987, p.71). Therefore, the problem, which is discussed in this paper, is not a language-specific one, in spite of the fact that most of the languages have their own repositories for marking the role of the addressee in the communicative utterances. In our opinion this linguistic phenomenon needs its adequate treatment in HPSG because of three main reasons:


The microscopic changes of pulmonary arteries in 18 patients with congenital cardiovascular malformations were studied on lung biopsies and appreciated by the Heath-Edwards' scale. A correlation between the nature of the malformation and the patient's age on the one hand, and the severity of arterial lesions on the other hand, was observed, suggesting the utility of the lung biopsy for a better prognosis of the surgical corrective intervention. The role of inflammatory factors in the genesis of arterial changes leading to hypertension is also discussed.


Positron emission mammography (PEM) of F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake in breast tumors with dedicated detectors typically has been accomplished with two planar detectors in a fixed position with the breast under compression. The potential use of PEM imaging at two detector positions to guide stereotactic breast biopsy has motivated us to use PEM coincidence data acquired at two or more detector positions together in a single image reconstruction. Multiple angle PEM acquisition and iterative image reconstruction were investigated using point source and compressed breast phantom acquisitions with 5, 9, 12 and 15 mm diameter spheres and a simulated tumor: background activity concentration ratio of 6:1. Image reconstruction was performed with an iterative MLEM algorithm that used coincidence events between any detector pixels on opposed detector heads at each detector position. This present study compared two acquisition protocols: 2 angle acquisition with detector angular positions of -15 and +15 degrees and 11 angle acquisition with detector positions spaced at 3 degree increments over the range -15 to +15 degrees.


The quality of metallurgical products is affected not only by the quality of the production process, but also by the quality of the measured data through which is the production process controlled. For this reason one of the prerequisites for success in the market is quality of the measurement system. This is the reason why the evaluation of measurement system quality is an integral part of the activities of quality planning and quality control in both the automotive and also in the metallurgical industry. At present the evaluation of the quality of used measurement system is mostly performed by using two approaches respectively methodologies. It is a Measurement System Analysis (MSA) methodology developed by the U.S. automotive industry and VDA 5 methodology developed by the German automotive industry. The main objective of this paper is the analysis of the interrelationships among the most important properties of the measurement system evaluated according to MSA guide and measurement uncertainties evaluated according to VDA 5 guide. The factors that have the greatest impact on the differences in the results obtained by using both methodologies are described.


This study explored the relation of personal and professional characteristics to the attitudes of health professionals toward parent participation. A random sample of members of the Association for the Care of Children's Health completed the Parent Participation Questionnaire. Attitudes were more accepting in subjects who were parents (p < .01), ever married (p < .05), educators (p < .01); older (p < .01), more experienced (p < .01), and/or had a higher level of education (p < .01). Health professionals need to develop means of creating positive attitudes that are not based solely on an individual's characteristics. These, however, can be mediated through several strategies--for example, role modeling, sharing, and education.


The practice of regional anesthesia is in a state of progressive evolution, mainly due to the advent of ultrasound as an anesthesiologist's instrument. Alternative techniques for postoperative analgesia of abdominal surgeries, such as transversus abdominis plane block, oblique subcostal transversus abdominis plane block, rectus abdominis muscle sheath block, ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block, and quadratus lumborum plane block, have proven useful, with good analgesic efficacy, especially when neuroaxial techniques (spinal anesthesia or epidural anesthesia) are not possible. This review discusses such blockades in detail, including the anatomical principles, indications, techniques, and potential complications.


Objectives: We recently identified the ratio between absolute neutrophils count and absolute lymphocyte count, NLR ≥ 2, combined to ISS as a predictor of progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients younger than 65 years with symptomatic Multiple Myeloma (MM). We retrospectively examined the NLR-ISS in 165 consecutive smoldering Myeloma (sMM) accessed our Center between January 2004 and June 2014.
Methods: NLR was calculated using data obtained from the complete blood count (CBC) at diagnosis and subsequently correlated with time to treatment (TTT) for symptomatic MM. All patients underwent to bone marrow evaluation to estimate plasma cells infiltration (BMPC) and cytogenetic alterations detectable by FISH, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to detect bone lesions, serum free-lite chain evaluation (sFLC). Patients with bone marrow plasma cells >60% or lytic lesions at MRI were excluded from further analysis.
Results: We identified 127 patients with sMM defined accordingly to the updated IMWG 2015 guidelines. The median NLR was 1.7 (range 0.6-10.5), lower than the value previously found for MM 1.9 (range 0.4-15.9, p=0.005. Higher NLR was independent from ISS stage, BMPC amount, high-risk FISH and sFLC.
Using NLR ≥ 2 we could not predict TTT. Indeed, in univariate analysis only BMPC ≥ 30% (p=0.003), albumin 3.5 g/L (p=0.0001), ratio of uninvolved/involved sFLC (p=0.0002), immunoparesis (p=0.016) and LDH (p<0.0001) could predict TTT. In multivariate analysis, these three parameters were independent (p<0.0001). In multivariate analysis, LDH and beta-2 microglobulin were weak but significant independent predictors of outcome. Since both are part of R-ISS, we applied ISS, R-ISS and NLR-ISS to identify TTT at 60 months. R-ISS resulted the strongest system to distinguish patients in stage I and stage II with TTT at 60 months respectively 92% and 62.7% (p=0.0002). NLR-ISS could distinguish patients in stage I and stage II with TTT at 60 months respectively 91.9% and 67.8% (p=0.007).
Conclusion: We could not confirm previously proposed parameters to predict time to treatment using the new definition of sMM. However, ISS and its improved variants R-ISS and NLR-ISS were able to identify patients in stage I with excellent outcome at 60 months. Prospective larger series are needed to use R-ISS to identify high-risk sMM.


Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent chronic disease of the upper airways and it is the fourth cause of death in the Polish population. COPD is characterized by not fully reversible constriction of air flow, which is a consequence of inflammation caused by noxious fumes and gases, particularly tobacco smoke. It seems that among mediators of inflammation, chemokine CXCL8 (interleukin 8) may play a pivotal role. CXCL8 is a member of the chemokine family and is a major chemoattractant to neutrophils, which are responsible for inducing and sustaining the inflammatory state. It was shown that there is a correlation between the number of neutrophils in induced sputum in COPD patients, the CXCL8 level, and clinical outcome of the illness. Increased frequency of exacerbation may be a result of increased secretion of mucus caused by increased expression of genes encoding mucins (MUC5AC and MUCB), which is stimulated by high levels of CXCL8. Activation of the CXCL8-encoding gene depends on pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor, interleukin 1 and lipopolysaccharide which activate transcription factor NF-κB. Inhibitors of CXCL8 (such as N-acetyl-L-cysteine) cause a decrease of exacerbation frequency and clinical symptoms. The data presented in the review suggest that CXCL8 plays a major role in the inflammatory process leading to COPD.


Tnouas M. Fvles, Clrprono C. Lrzxonr, andJoHn WrnrxensroN. Can. J. Chem. 56, l03l (1e78). A 2f crosslinked divinylbenzene-styrene copolymer, incorporating benzoyl chloride groups, was used to monoprotect the symmetrical diol l,l0-decanediol. The corresponding monotrityl ether and cir-10-tetradecenJ-ol were prepared by this system, the latter by a Wittig reaction of a polymer-bound ylide with an aldehyde in the solution phase. A series of bifunctionalized resins containing proximally located trityl alcohol and benzoic acid groups was prepared in an attempt to prepare diol linked to the polymer via both a trityl ether and a benzoate linkage. It was established that these polymers bound l,l0-decanediol exclusively at one end only. Polymers, containing both trityl alcohol and benzoic acid groups in a random array or polymers containing proximally located trityl alcohol groups, gave mixtures of both monoprotected and doubly protected diol.


Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) is a widely used metrology technique for the characterization of semiconductor materials. The shrinking of feature size has lead to a new generation of SIMS tools capable of accurately analyzing advanced process technology and new materials. These tools offer high depth resolution by using very low primary beam energies. Quadrupole based SIMS tools have proven to be the best choice for using low energy beams, as the design offers several key advantages: independent incidence angle and energy variation allowing optimization of die SIMS parameters for specific applications, low extraction fields allow low energy ions to reach the sample surface without distortion, high level of reproducibility is achieved on a routine basis and a low cost of ownership compared to other types of SIMS instruments. In this study, a quadruple SIMS tool (ATOMIKA 4500/spl trade/) that has floating low energy ion guns (FLIG/spl trade/) to generate the low energy ions, was used to analyze a variety of different samples. For example, shallow boron implants and SiGe HBT samples. This paper will discuss the benefits of using quadruple SIMS for analyzing these new materials in a manufacturing environment.


This experiment was designed to compare three preservation temperatures, 0 degrees C, 4 degrees C, and 10 degrees C, in 24-hour heart preservation using a continuous coronary perfusion method in terms of myocardial extracted enzymes during preservation (CPK, LDH, and GOT), left ventricular (LV) function at reperfusion and ultrastructural changes both at the end of preservation and at reperfusion. Rabbit hearts were preserved at 0 degrees C (n = 6), 4 degrees C (n = 6), and 10 degrees C (n = 6) for 24 hours and reperfused with arterial blood from the abdominal aorta of support rabbits. The value of CPK in the 10 degrees C group was statistically higher than those of the 0 degrees C group or 4 degrees C group (p less than 0.05: 0 degrees C vs 10 degrees C, p less than 0.025: 4 degrees C vs 10 degrees C). Left ventricular developed pressures (LVDPs) at 60 minutes after reperfusion in the 4 degrees C group were statistically greater than those in the 0 degrees C group and 10 degrees C group at several LV balloon volumes (p less than 0.005: 4 degrees C vs 0 degrees C or 10 degrees C). Electron-microscopic examination at reperfusion demonstrated remarkably swollen mitochondria associated with disruption of cristae in the 0 degrees C and 10 degrees C groups, but much less morphological change in the 4 degrees C group throughout preservation and reperfusion. From an overall view point of these enzymatic, functional and ultrastructural results, 4 degrees C proved to be a superior preservation temperature of choice for prolonged heart preservation.


[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between lower extremity tightness and lower extremity balance, measured by the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), in junior high school baseball players. [Subjects] Thirty-three male students belonging to baseball clubs in 2 junior high schools participated in this study. [Methods] For the SEBT, we chose to examine the anterior (ANT), posterior (POS), lateral (LAT), and medial (MED) directions. Regarding muscle tightness measurement, the angle of each joint of the bilateral iliopsoas, quadriceps, hamstring, gastrocnemius, hip internal rotator, and hip external rotator was measured. [Results] The ANT direction of the SEBT was significantly negatively correlated with gastrocnemius tightness. The MED direction of the SEBT was significantly positively correlated with hip internal rotator tightness and hamstrings tightness and significantly negatively correlated with gastrocnemius tightness. The LAT direction of the SEBT was significantly negatively correlated with iliopsoas tightness and gastrocnemius tightness. [Conclusion] Since the rate of upper extremity injury is high in these subjects and this could be due to tightness and instability of the lower extremity from a kinetic viewpoint, the SEBT could be used as a standard evaluation test when examining upper extremity injuries in young baseball players.


The sensitivity in vitro against gamma-radiation of valyl-tRNA synthetase (VRS) from chick embryo brain proved to be higher than that of liver VRS. In order to study this phenomenon properties of VRS isolated from both organs were compared. Both enzymes have the same molecular weight (Mr = 110 000) determined by equilibrium sedimentation and by gel filtration. Electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulphate showed no evidence for subunit structure. The optimal reaction conditions in valyl-tRNA formation were found to be the same, except the pH values. Km values of the reactions were also similar. Both enzymes reacted with the tRNAs isolated from the other organ. The stability during storage of the liver VRS was higher than that of the brain VRS. In the brain VRS molecule one buried and eleven free SH groups could be detected and divided into three classes with different reactivities. In 1 mol of liver VRS one buried and nine free thiol groups were determined and these could be divided only into two classes. These observations suggest the existence of two VRS isoenzymes with different radiosensitivities: the more sensitive occurs mainly in brain and the less sensitive mainly in the liver of chick embryo.


Lecithin:retinol acyltransferase (LRAT) is an enzyme that converts retinol (vitamin A) to retinyl esters. Its expression is often reduced in human cancers, including oral cavity cancers. We investigated the effects of ectopic expression of human lecithin:retinol acyltransferase (LRAT) on murine oral cavity carcinogenesis induced by the carcinogen 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4-NQO). We targeted human LRAT expression specifically to the basal layers of mouse skin and oral cavity epithelia by using a portion of the human cytokeratin 14 (K14) promoter. High levels of human LRAT transgene transcripts were detected in the tongues and skin of adult transgenic positive (TG+) mice, but not in transgenic negative (TG-) mice. The retinyl ester levels in skin of LRAT TG+ mice were 32% ± 5.4% greater than those in TG- mice, and topical treatment of the back skin with retinol resulted in greater increases in retinyl esters (from 6.9 to 14.3 fold in different TG+ mice) in TG+ mouse skin than in TG- mouse skin (1.3 fold). While carcinogen (4-NQO) treatment induced multifocal precancerous and cancer lesions in the tongues of both TG positive (n=16) and negative mice (n=22), higher percentages of transgenic positive mice (62.5%) developed more severe tongue lesions (grades 3 and 4) than transgenic negative mice (24.8%) after 4-NQO treatment (p < 0.05). Carcinogen treatment also resulted in greater percentages of transgenic positive mouse tongues with hyperplasia (71.4%), dysplasia (85.7%, p < 0.05), and carcinoma (28.6%) than transgenic negative mouse tongues (53.3%, 46.7%., and 20%, respectively). Moreover, we observed higher cyclooxygenases-2 (Cox-2) mRNA and lower RARβ2 mRNA levels in TG+ mouse tongues than inas compared to TG- mouse tongues after 4-NQO treatment (p < 0.05). Taken together, these data show that overexpression of human LRAT specifically in oral basal epithelial cells makes these cells more sensitive to carcinogen induced tumorigenesis.