Ingrown toenails are frequently encountered in clinical orthopedic practice. It mostly occurs in young people; therefore, it may cause a huge workforce or school-day loss. Numerous surgical techniques have been described as the treatment of ingrown toenail, and the Winograd technique is a reliable procedure since first described at 1929. This paper presents a new and simple suture technique after the Winograd procedure for ingrown toenail. With this technique, I claim low rates of recurrence, and better and satisfactory cosmetic results. In this technical report; excision of the partial nail bed and lateral nail fold, including the inflammatory granulation tissue, is described. Through this procedure, maintaining skin fold under the nail is detailed aiming to reduce recurrence rates.


Abstract This article examines the connections among self-reported social network development, L2 use, and self-perceived speaking proficiency development in a group of Belgian ERASMUS students (n = 59) who studied abroad in different European countries (Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and the UK). The results suggest a number of differences between the participants in this study and the US cohorts who have been traditionally the focus of previous SA research. For example, the Belgian students report high levels of proficiency in the target language before going abroad and high levels of target language use while abroad. Furthermore, a number of social network variables point to differences between the ERASMUS students in the present study and the US students featuring in previous research. Nevertheless, the results also reveal some similarities, especially with regard to the social network variables 'size' and 'intensity of friendship' which were predictors of language gains for the group of students under analysis in this study and, consequently, corroborated findings of previous studies conducted with US cohorts.


In order to improve the tactile perception, as well as other comfort properties of modern smart clothing, conventional electrical wires, which are used to connect integrated electronic components, are more and more often replaced by conductive threads. Conductive threads can be used to replace mounting wires in smart clothing, as well as to make sensors. In order to determine the durability of conductive threads made by different manufacturers, a study was conducted in which the conductive threads, which were integrated using embroidery technique, were subjected to multiple washing cycles. After each washing cycle electrical resistance of connections, made by these threads, was measured and its changes were compared. Suggestions about the use of different conductive threads can be found in the conclusions section of this study.


Since its characterization two decades ago, the phosphatase PHOSPHO1 has been the subject of an increasing focus of research. This work has elucidated PHOSPHO1's central role in the biomineralization of bone and other hard tissues, but has also implicated the enzyme in other biological processes in health and disease. During mineralization PHOSPHO1 liberates inorganic phosphate (Pi) to be incorporated into the mineral phase through hydrolysis of its substrates phosphocholine (PCho) and phosphoethanolamine (PEA). Localization of PHOSPHO1 within matrix vesicles allows accumulation of Pi within a protected environment where mineral crystals may nucleate and subsequently invade the organic collagenous scaffold. Here, we examine the evidence for this process, first discussing the discovery and characterization of PHOSPHO1, before considering experimental evidence for its canonical role in matrix vesicle–mediated biomineralization. We also contemplate roles for PHOSPHO1 in disorders of dysregulated mineralization such as vascular calcification, along with emerging evidence of its activity in other systems including choline synthesis and homeostasis, and energy metabolism. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.


The stellarator is a 3-dimensional toroidal configuration without induced toroidal plasma currents. The magnetic field is produced by external coils which allows steady-state operation of a stellarator reactor. The requirements coming from reactor conditions narrow the range of potential stellarator configurations as reactor candidates; therefore an optimization of stellarator configurations is necessary to meet these requirements. The Helias concept developed at the IPP Garching offers the chance of stable plasma confinement up to beta =5% and predicts neoclassical transport losses below the critical level for ignition. This can be achieved by reducing the radial drift of trapped and circulating particles as far as possible (drift-optimization). The neoclassical transport of trapped particles can be characterized by an effective helical ripple of 1-2%. The theory of an optimized stellarator reactor mainly concentrates on the issues of plasma equilibrium, MHD-stability, neoclassical effects and fast particle behavior. Much effort is also devoted to the optimization of the coil system as the main technical component of the reactor. The dimensions of a hypothetical Helias reactor are: major radius 20 m, average plasma radius 1.6 m, magnetic field on axis 5 Tesla, rotational transform in the range 5/6


Autonomous Vehicles are currently being tested in a variety of scenarios. As we move towards Autonomous Vehicles, how should intersections look? To answer that question, we break down an intersection management into the different conundrums and scenarios involved in the trajectory planning and current approaches to solve them. Then, a brief analysis of current works in autonomous intersection is conducted. With a critical eye, we try to delve into the discrepancies of existing solutions while presenting some critical and important factors that have been addressed. Furthermore, open issues that have to be addressed are also emphasized. We also try to answer the question of how to benchmark intersection management algorithms by providing some factors that impact autonomous navigation at intersection.


Huntingtin-interacting protein 1-related (HIP1r) is known to function in clathrin-mediated endocytosis and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, which occurs continuously in non-dividing cells. This study reports a new function for HIP1r in mitosis. Green fluorescent protein-fused HIP1r localizes to the mitotic spindles. Depletion of HIP1r by RNA interference induces misalignment of chromosomes and prolonged mitosis, which is associated with decreased proliferation of HIP1r-deficeint cells. Chromosome misalignment leads to missegregation and ultimately production of multinucleated cells. Depletion of HIP1r causes persistent activation of the spindle checkpoint in misaligned chromosomes. These findings suggest that HIP1r plays an important role in regulating the attachment of spindle microtubules to chromosomes during mitosis, an event that is required for accurate congression and segregation of chromosomes. This finding may provide new insights that improve the understanding of various human diseases involving HIP1r as well as its fusion genes.


Mortality from coronary heart disease in Japan is the among lowest recorded in the industrialized nations; however, little is known about the rate of events including nonfatal cases. A survey of event registration and a review of death certificates was carried out to estimate event rates of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and coronary deaths in the largest 2 cities of the Niigata prefecture where there are 480,720 residents aged between 15 and 65 years. The definitions for these cardiac events used for the WHO-MONICA project were: (1)'definite AMI', (2) 'possible AMI or coronary death' (not including unclassifiable fatal events), and (3) 'unclassifiable fatal events'. Age-adjusted rates for AMI and coronary deaths (per 100,000/year) according to the registration survey were 54.6 for men and 7.2 for women according to definition 1 and 41.9 for men, and 5.3 for women according to definition 2. When data from the death certificate review were taken into account for the estimation, these rates increased to 80.6 for men and 14.2 for women according to definition 1, and 50.0 for men and 9.0 for women according to definition 2. These estimated rates are considerably lower than those in other industrialized nations surveyed in the WHO-MONICA project, and these findings are consistent with those from other studies conducted in Japan.


The tissue culture of Cyclamen persicum Mill. of the Primulaceae family, and a popular ornamental pot plant, is well explored. This synopsis review provides an overview of the induction of shoots (caulogenesis), roots (rhizogenesis) and microtubers (microtuberization) in vitro as viable routes for the tissue culture of clonal material, primarily from the English literature.


Abstract This study examines the relationship in Finland between the firm's financial health and the depreciation policy for a sample with 1,610 firm-years of data for mainly non-public firms. We find a negative correlation between leverage and depreciation in relation to depreciable assets. This result is consistent with prior studies showing that firms with a higher leverage use income-increasing accounting methods. However, since accounting-based debt covenants are rare among the size class of firms studied, the correlation is likely to be driven by implicit contracting related factors. We also study whether the auditors' professional qualifications correlate with the depreciation policy. The results indicate that Big 5 audited firms depreciate their assets over somewhat shorter periods of time than non-Big 5 audited firms. This result is consistent with the notion that Big 5 auditors are more conservative, perhaps because they have more reputation capital at stake.


Different types of anxiety disorders have become the number one mental health issue in developed countries. The search for new, safer and effective drug-like molecules among naturally derived substances faces two difficulties: an efficient method of isolation compounds with a high-purity and high-throughput animal model for activity assay. Thus, the aim of the present study was to isolate by liquid–liquid chromatography high-purity rare coumarins from the fruits of Seseli devenyense Simonk. and evaluate their anxiolytic effect (defined as reversed thimotaxis) using a 5-days post-fertilization (dpf) Danio rerio larvae model. Liquid–liquid chromatography enabled the isolation of one simple hydroxycoumarin (devenyol) and four pyranocoumarins (cis-khellactone, d-laserpitin, isolaserpitin and octanoyllomatin). The anxiolytic effect was defined as a decrease in the time spent in the boundaries of the living space (also described as reversed thigmotaxis). Our results show that all isolated courmarins exerted a significant influence on the anxiety behavior (anxiolytic activity) in the zebrafish larvae model. According to our knowledge, this is the first report of anxiolytic activity of pyranocoumarins and devenyol.


Challenges of the Cultural Sector in Poland after 1989 and the Accompanying Popularization of the Idea of Audience Development

Through the last three decades, cultural workers have developed a growing belief in the importance of the so called 'participative turn.' The aim of the article is to scrutinize the changes accompanying the culture sector in Poland after 1989 and to identify the challenges which constitute what one could call a 'fertile ground' for the popularization of the idea of Audience Development. The concept in question refers to a strategic and holistic approach to the issue of building relations between cultural organizations and their audiences. The article is based on literature studies. The presented analysis focuses mostly on organisations and cultural policies in larger cities in Poland.


Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) disease is the second most common crystal-induced form of arthropathy, frequently seen in the knee, shoulder, wrist, elbow, and ankle. The acute form of the disorder is referred as pseudogout, which can cause a severe joint inflammation. We present a case of monoarticular pseudogout of the hip joint whose symptoms mimicked septic arthritis. The definitive diagnosis was only confirmed after the microscopic analysis of joint aspirate.


Wildfire is a naturally occurring process that regenerates vegetation in forests. However, these fire regimes are becoming increasingly altered by human beings. This study attempts to predict the risk of human caused forest fire incidents in the Cranbrook Fire Zone in British Columbia, Canada. A multi-criteria analysis using 16 spatial and socioeconomic variables was developed to produce three separate outputs, each having a different weighting and ranking scheme derived from either The Rank Method, or AHP Method. Results were compared with point locations of human caused incidents from 1950 to 2008 and the accuracy of the model is very promising; however, further study and analysis is required for true validation.


the calctllation of ~t [r~tl)eZi/im al}(t a, tttl~g(mt formtll~ on & finer grid, but also lhe ell(relation of several higher order formulas which are deliu(.d implicitly. The two families of :q)proximatc solutions will normally bra.ckct the value of the iategrM trod from these convergence is tested on each of the several orders of approximation. The :algorithm is based on a. private communiea-thin from F. ftSvie of the Inslit/llt for Atomenergi Kjeller Re-searei~ l!;stablishment, Norway. A l)'()aTt~aN version of the algorithm in in use on the Philco-2000. A few test eases have been run (m the Burroughs B5000. In l)artieula.r, a and b are the lower and upper limits of integration, respectively, eps is the convergence criterion, integrand is tile value of l..he function to be integrated (sampled), and m is the m:Lximum order approximation to be considered in attempting to satisfy the eps convergence crilerion. If c(mvergcnee is not gtdned, thert the wdue returned is that of the nonlocal w~riable, mask. Thc parameter integrand must be an expression involving the wu'iable of integration x. See tile driver program of this algorithm for examples of the procedure call; comment till = h X (0.SXf[O]+.f[1]+f[2]+...+O.SXf[2~-I]); x := a .... h/2.0; forj := 1 step 1 untiln do begin x := x +. h; sum,n := swm~ q-integrand end; u[l] := h X santa; k := 1; comment '~[1] = h × (f[l/2]+j'[a/2]+...+f[(2<-l)/2]), k corresponds to approxilnate solution with truncation error term of order 2k; tent: if abs(t[k]-u[k]) ~ eps then begin havieintegrator := 0.5 X (t[k]q-u[kl); go to exit end; if k ~ i then begin a := 2 1" (2×k); t[k+l] := (dXt[k]-tprev[k])/(d-l.O); tprev[k} := /[k]; v[k+l] := (dX'u[k]-~tprev[kl)/(d-l.0); uprcv[1,:] := 'u,[k]; comment This implicit fornmlation of the higher order in-. tcgration formulas is given in [Rom~ER(t W. Vercinfaehte Numerische Integration. l)et Kent. See also Algorithm 60 where the same implicit relationship is used to calculate t[k+l] only; Following is a driver program to test havieintegrator. begin comment First test ease, y = f~2cosx dx = 1.0 (0.9999999981 as executed on tile B5000), is an example of the higher order approximations yielding fast convergence as in Algorithm 60; second test case, y = ]4~ e_~2 dx = .8862269255 (.8862269739 as executed on the BS000), is an example where this algorithm is superior to Algorithm 60 because the higher order approximations converge more slowly than the linear approximations; see also [ Sum …


The role of salvage cryoablation of the prostate for patients with clinically localized prostate cancer that have failed radiotherapy to the prostate is reviewed with reference to alternatives including salvage radical prostatectomy and brachytherapy. The diagnosis and work-up of local recurrence/persistence of cancer in the prostate are reviewed and the patient selection criteria for salvage cryoablation is discussed. Technical aspects of the cryoablation procedure along with the outcome in terms of cancer control and treatment-related complications are detailed. The five-year biochemical disease-free rate is approximately 40%. The complication rate is acceptable. Salvage cryoablation definitely has a role in the management of localized prostate cancer treatment failure following radiotherapy, especially in older patients and those with some comorbidities.


Summary: Although myocardial ischemia is associated with regional cardiac sympathetic nerve deterioration, it remains unknown whether acute hindlimb ischemia impairs muscle sympathetic nerve function. In the study presented here we implanted dialysis probes in the adductor muscle of anesthetized rabbits and measured dialysate norepinephrine levels as an index of muscle sympathetic nerve activity. Acute hindlimb ischemia was induced by injection of microspheres and occlusion of the common iliac artery. Dialysate norepinephrine levels decreased from 19.3 ± 3.5 pg/ml at control to 9.4 ± 3.7 pg/ml at 30 min of ischemia and further to 1.7 ± 0.2 pg/ml at 75 min of ischemia. During acute hindlimb ischemia, baroreflex (bilateral carotid occlusion) and high potassium level‐induced norepinephrine response was inhibited, but tyramine‐induced norepinephrine response was preserved. In conclusion, acute hindlimb ischemia caused decreases in dialysate norepinephrine levels. This reduction may be mediated by an impairment of axonal conduction and/or of norepinephrine releasing function at skeletal muscle sympathetic nerve endings.


Elastic guided waves are of interest for inspecting structures due to their ability to propagate over long distances. In several applications, the guiding structure is surrounded by a solid matrix that can be considered as unbounded. The physics of waves in open waveguides significantly differs from closed waveguides. Except for trapped modes, part of the energy is radiated in the surrounding medium, yielding attenuated modes along the axis called leaky modes (wavenumbers are then complex). From a numerical modeling point of view, the main difficulty lies in the unbounded nature of the geometry in the transverse direction. This difficulty is particularly severe due to the unusual behavior of leaky modes: while attenuating along the axis, such modes exponentially grow along the transverse direction. This behavior is seldom mentioned in the literature of elastic waveguides. Yet leaky modes have often been considered for NDT applications, which require waves of low attenuation in order to maximize the inspection range. A numerical approach is proposed for computing modes in open elastic waveguides, in the bidimensional case as a first step. The approach combines a semi-analytical finite element method with perfectly matched layers (PML). The technique of absorbing layers (AL) is also implemented, which consists in using large artificial layers of growing viscoelasticity. Numerical results are compared to analytical results. The efficiency of PML is compared to AL and parametric studies are briefly conducted in order to assess the convergence of both techniques. The physical meaning of leaky modes is also highlighted.


Interconnection of wired Internet and wireless mobile ad hoc networks, called Integrated Internet-MANET enables communication between wired and wireless peers. Many strategies exist which provide Internet connectivity to the mobile ad hoc network nodes through one or more Internet gateways. Mobile nodes need to be registered with an Internet gateway in order to communicate across the Internet. A key issue in such strategies is to distribute the Internet bound traffic across the Internet gateways evenly. The problem of Internet gateway load balancing has been addressed by researchers in interesting ways. In this paper, we present a review of the gateway load balancing solutions under common parameters. In the second part of the paper, a new gateway load balancing strategy based on a load balanced routing protocol called Modified AODV is proposed and is simulated using the ns-2 simulator.


Since the early 1980s the field of HRM has seen the independent evolution of two independent subfields (strategic and functional), which we believe is dysfunctional to the field as a whole. We propose a typology of HRM research based on two dimensions: level of analysis (individual/group or organization) and number of practices (single or multiple). We use this framework to review the recent research in each of the four subareas. We argue that while significant progress has been made within each area, the potential for greater gains exists by looking across each area. Toward this end we suggest some future research directions based on a more integrative view of HRM. We believe that both areas can contribute significantly to each other resulting in a more profound impact on the field of HRM than each can contribute independently.


ABSTRACT We investigated the relationship between susceptibility to β-lactam antibiotics and variation in the major outer membrane protein P2 (OmpP2; also called porin) of persistent nonencapsulatedHaemophilus influenzae isolated from cystic fibrosis patients. Nine OmpP2 variants were selected from two distinctH. influenzae strains from two patients extensively treated with β-lactam antibiotics. The variants differed in their susceptibilities to at least two β-lactam antibiotics. By detergent extraction and column chromatography, OmpP2 was purified from two variants that were derived from strain 70 and that differed notably in their susceptibilities to β-lactam antibiotics. The proteins were reconstituted into black lipid membranes for measurement of porin function. OmpP2 from the more resistant isolate (isolate 70b) had a smaller channel conductance than OmpP2 of the more susceptible isolate (isolate 70f). DNA sequencing of ompP2 of these isolates revealed single nonsynonymous base differences; there were changes in the amino acid sequence corresponding to surface-exposed loops 4, 5, 6, and 8. Changes in loops 4, 5, and 6 were previously shown to result in antigenic differences. Beside these mutations, variants of strain 70 showed additional mutations in loop 1 and nonexposed loop 3. Taken together, our results suggest that in variants of strain 70, nonsynonymous point mutations accumulated both in the sequences ofompP2 coding for antigen-variable loops and in other loops, notably, loops 1 and 3. The latter changes are suggested to affect the permeability of the porin channel.


The physiological importance of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and cardioventilatory coupling (CVC) has not yet been fully elucidated, but these phenomena might contribute to improve ventilation/perfusion matching, with beneficial effects on gas exchange. Furthermore, decreased RSA amplitude has been suggested as an indicator of impaired autonomic control and poor clinical outcome, also during positive-pressure mechanical ventilation (MV). However, it is currently unknown how different modes of MV, including variable tidal volumes (VT), affect RSA and CVC during anesthesia. We compared the effects of pressure controlled (PCV) versus pressure assisted (PSV) ventilation, and of random variable versus constant VT, on RSA and CVC in eight anesthetized pigs. At comparable depth of anesthesia, global hemodynamics, and ventilation, RSA amplitude increased from 20 ms in PCV to 50 ms in PSV (p < 0.05). CVC was detected (using proportional Shannon entropy of the interval between each inspiration onset and the previous R-peak in ECG) in two animals in PCV and seven animals in PSV. Variable VT did not significantly influence these phenomena. Furthermore, heart period and systolic arterial pressure oscillations were in phase during PCV but in counter-phase during PSV. At the same depth of anesthesia in pigs, PSV increases RSA amplitude and CVC compared to PCV. Our data suggest that the central respiratory drive, but not the baroreflex or the mechano-electric feedback in the heart, is the main mechanism behind the RSA increase. Hence, differences in RSA and CVC between mechanically ventilated patients might reflect the difference in ventilation mode rather than autonomic impairment. Also, since gas exchange did not increase from PCV to PSV, it is questionable whether RSA has any significance in improving ventilation/perfusion matching during MV.


In recent years, there has been a growing interest in speed scaling algorithms, where a set of jobs need to be scheduled on a machine with variable speed so as to optimize the flow-times of the jobs and the energy consumed by the machine. A series of results have culminated in constant-competitive algorithms for this problem in the clairvoyant model, i.e., when job parameters are revealed on releasing a job (Bansal, Pruhs, and Stein, SODA 2007; Bansal, Chan, and Pruhs, SODA 2009). Our main contribution in this paper is the first constant-competitive speed scaling algorithm in the non-clairvoyant model, which is typically used in the scheduling literature to model practical settings where job volume is revealed only after the job has been completely processed. Unlike in the clairvoyant model, the speed scaling problem in the non-clairvoyant model is non-trivial even for a single job. Our non-clairvoyant algorithm is defined by using the existing clairvoyant algorithm in a novel inductive way, which then leads to an inductive analytical tool that may be of independent interest for other online optimization problems. We also give additional algorithmic results and lower bounds for speed scaling on multiple identical parallel machines.


We study the homogenization of materials having three phases: matrix, inclusions, and inclusion coatings. To model the inclusions and their coatings we investigate two weakly discontinuous enrichment functions within the extended finite element method (XFEM) framework described by a single level set function. In both formulations the inclusion and coating shapes are independent of each other. The first approach, denoted as a V-type enrichment, combines several weak discontinuities by stacking the corresponding inclusion and coating enriched degrees of freedom in a single node (one on top of the other) while the second, denoted as a zigzag-type enrichment, only adds one additional degree of freedom per each direction. The XFEM approach is extremely efficient and avoids excessive remeshing compared to standard FEM, in particular when the coatings are very thin as in the case of aggregates surrounded by the interface transition zone (ITZ) in concrete materials. Comprehensive verification studies are presented including two-dimensional continuum problems and homogenization of concrete. Herein we mainly focus on the microscopic material response via homogenization of the unit cell. Nonetheless, once the homogenized material properties are obtained, the application to a full multiscale analysis is straightforward. While both enrichment types are different possible extensions to XFEM applied to such three-phase materials, both methods seem to work well and provide significant reduction in degrees of freedom and computation time as compared to standard FEM.


Fluid and solute transporters of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are core components of the outer blood–retinal barrier. Characterizing these transporters and their role in retinal homeostasis may provide insights into ocular function and disease. Here, we describe RPE defects in tvrm77 mice, which exhibit hypopigmented patches in the central retina. Mapping and nucleotide sequencing of tvrm77 mice revealed a disrupted 5' splice donor sequence in Slc4a5, a sodium bicarbonate cotransporter gene. Slc4a5 expression was reduced 19.7-fold in tvrm77 RPE relative to controls, and alternative splice variants were detected. SLC4A5 was localized to the Golgi apparatus of cultured human RPE cells and in apical and basal membranes. Fundus imaging, optical coherence tomography, microscopy, and electroretinography (ERG) of tvrm77 mice revealed retinal detachment, hypopigmented patches corresponding to neovascular lesions, and retinal folds. Detachment worsened and outer nuclear layer thickness decreased with age. ERG a- and b-wave response amplitudes were initially normal but declined in older mice. The direct current ERG fast oscillation and light peak were reduced in amplitude at all ages, whereas other RPE-associated responses were unaffected. These results link a new Slc4a5 mutation to subretinal fluid accumulation and altered light-evoked RPE electrophysiological responses, suggesting that SLC4A5 functions at the outer blood–retinal barrier.


ABSTRACT This paper is concerned with the research areas of defamilisation/familisation and adult worker models. It particularly focuses on demonstrating how the study of government pro-employment and decommodification measures for reducing defamilisation and familisation risks faced by women contributes to the examination of the adult worker models. It presents three analytical tasks. The first is to categorise the adult worker models into four types (market-focused, supported, choice-focused and collective consumption) based on different combinations of the pro-employment and decommodification measures. The second is to explore the relative desirability of these four types in enhancing women's well-being. Based on the case example of Hong Kong, the third is to examine issues concerning the application of the adult worker models in the analysis of how the government responds to defamilisation and familisation risks.


The aim of this paper is to empirically assess the impact of self-efficacy on the performance of trainee interpreters with different degrees of second-language competence. Self-efficacy, as understood by Bandura, is defined as people's beliefs about their capabilities to produce designated levels of performance. This article begins by presenting an overview of this psychological construct and highlighting the difference between general self-efficacy and specific self-efficacy. Second, it reviews the literature on self-efficacy and its relation to performance, as well as the relationship between the process of second-language acquisition and the process of interpreting skills acquisition. Interpreting tasks performed by students with low linguistic competence in their B language are compared with the output of trainee interpreters with high linguistic competence, after their specific self-efficacy expectations are measured. A sample of 281 interpreting trainees was used for this study. Results show that self-efficacy is relevant when predicting performance only in trainees with high linguistic competence, and not relevant for trainees with low linguistic competence. However, high linguistic competence trainees lacking self-efficacy offer poorer interpretation renderings. Implications for teaching are discussed.


This paper presents the analysis and design of a new low-voltage fully balanced differential CMOS current-mode preamplifier for multi-Gbps series data communications. The minimum supply voltage of the proposed preamplifier is V/sub T/+V/sub sat/. The preamplifier employs a balanced configuration to achieve large bandwidth and to minimize the effect of bias-dependent mismatches. Two new bandwidth enhancement techniques, namely inductive series peaking and current feedback that are specific to low-voltage CMOS current-mode circuits, are introduced. The inductive series peaking technique utilizes the resonant characteristics of LC networks to achieve both a flat frequency response and maximum bandwidth. Current feedback extends bandwidth, lowers input impedance, and improves dynamic range. The employment of both techniques further increases the bandwidth, reduces the value of the series peaking inductor, and improves noise performance of the pre-amplifier at high frequencies. The preamplifier has been designed using a 0.18-/spl mu/m 6-metal 1-poly 1.8-V CMOS technology. Simulation results from Spectre with BSIM3.3 device models that account for device parasitics demonstrate that the preamplifier has a flat frequency response with 25.3 dB dc current gain or equivalently 60 dB/spl Omega/ transimpedance gain with a 50-/spl Omega/ load and bandwidth of 2.15 GHz.


Background Globally, the number of older people is rising. As a consequence of greater longevity, an increased burden on both medical and mental health care is expected. As a first step towards developing strategies to provide quality mental health care for this growing population, practitioners need to have a thorough understanding of the composition and needs of these patients. Aim To profile the inpatient population of a psychogeriatric unit in terms of demographics, diagnostic makeup, average length of stay and selected outcomes. Setting This study was conducted at the psychogeriatric unit of Stikland Hospital, Western Cape, South Africa. Methods Demographic and clinical data were retrospectively collected from patient files, discharge summaries and an admission database over a 3-year period. Results A total of 903 patients were referred to Stikland Hospital during a 3-year period. Of the 498 patients who were admitted, 56 were readmissions. The mean age of patients was 67 years, and more than 57% of patients were female. The majority of patients (97.1%) were admitted as involuntary mental health users. The diagnosis of a cognitive disorder was made in 49.5% of admissions followed by psychotic disorders in 36.9% and mood disorders in 23.2%. The median length of stay was 53 days. Conclusion The findings of this study illustrate that mental health services for the elderly in the Western Cape are insufficient, as only patients with severe illness and comorbidity could be admitted. The study emphasises the need for the restructuring of resources and the implementation of strategies, which may decrease the frequency of admissions to inpatient geriatric units.


Particle physics experiments rely extensively on computing and data services, making e-infrastructure an integral part of the research collaboration. Constructing and operating distributed computing can however be challenging for a smaller-scale collaboration.
The Light Dark Matter eXperiment (LDMX) is a planned small-scale accelerator-based experiment to search for dark matter in the sub-GeV mass region. Finalizing the design of the detector relies on Monte-Carlo simulation of expected physics processes. A distributed computing pilot project was proposed to better utilize available resources at the collaborating institutes, and to improve scalability and reproducibility.
This paper outlines the chosen lightweight distributed solution, presenting requirements, the component integration steps, and the experiences using a pilot system for tests with large-scale simulations. The system leverages existing technologies wherever possible, minimizing the need for software development, and deploys only non-intrusive components at the participating sites. The pilot proved that integrating existing components can dramatically reduce the effort needed to build and operate a distributed e-infrastructure, making it attainable even for smaller research collaborations.


This PhD examined a therapist's experience of illness/disability to see if any new light could be shed on music therapy whilst also finding ways to navigate disability as a practitioner. There has not been adequate research attention given to the experiences of music therapists who have an illness/disability. The position is often negotiated in isolation with minimal tools and resources. An arts-based autoethnography was used to determine how the close examination of one's personal experience with illness/disability can impact on practice, how the work can be negotiated, and to uncover any new practical or theoretical meanings. Furthermore, it looked to determine what arts-based autoethnography could offer one's practice. A poststructural lens was used that drew on social constructionism, feminism, and the work of Michel Foucault. Data generated from a music therapist's practice, experiences of illness/disability, literature, and professional documents were analysed using Foucault's "critical ontology of ourselves" (Foucault, 1984b, p. 47).  Hidden processes of problematic ableism were found within the practice examined as well as in some educational and professional encounters. These regimes of ableism were supported by universalising and dichotomising discourses, namely humanism, western normativity, limited observable understandings of disability, and the enforcement of able/disabled divide through many binaries. The methodology provided the tools to reposition the practice to politicise disability and address ableism.  Addressing ableism was found to be more complex than simply incorporating disability issues into existing contemporary frameworks. The analysis led to the development of Post-Ableist Music Therapy (PAMT). PAMT extended the relational ethic beyond what was present in the prior practice by drawing on aspects of posthumanism, agonistic plurality, and increasing the visibility of disability studies and crip theory. Therefore, PAMT offers a different lens to the critical orientations' apparatus: a social justice practice not based on empowerment and humanism but on agonism and posthumanism instead. As there is a lag in the theorisation of ableism, PAMT provides an alternative framework that can be applied to current approaches to increase our professional consciousness of ableism.  By repositioning the practice and exploring alternative subjectivities, the professional and personal narratives of a therapist experiencing illness/disability became more integrated, working with–not against–each other in a shared activism. The methodology fostered an increased ethical care of the self; offered tools that critiqued what we are; experimented with going beyond the limits imposed on us. The use of such tools could have wider application in the everyday practices of therapists. The findings have significant implications for practice and training, as the challenges people and societies face cannot be adequately dealt with without tools to explicitly uncover and address normalisation and ableism.


This article proposes an optical fiber hydrogen (H2) sensor based on photothermal reflectance [hereinafter modulated optical reflectance (MOR)] technique. Our H2 sensor is based on a technique that detects the changes of MOR signals in palladium film, which is widely known to absorb H2 gas. The sensor element is a palladium film deposited on a 2.5-mm-diameter FC-ferrule made from zirconium to realize the optical fiber sensor. Our recently developed laptop MOR instrument assembled with optical fiber components is applied to this technique. Thus, an extremely compact photothermal H2 gas sensor system can be constructed. We certified that our technique has hypersensitive less than 1% with a concentration of H2 gas and also demonstrated that the response time is approximately 5 seconds when the sensor head is filled with H2 gas.


We have studied alloying effects of Al and Ge on the Si site of URu2Si2 using resistivity and magnetization measurements. In contrast to previous studies of substitutions on the U and Ru sites, we observe that the substitutions of Al or Ge produce only a simple dilution effect on the itinerant antiferromagnetism transition at 17.5 K in URu2Si2. We discuss the alloying effects on TN, and in particular resistivity, in terms of d-f and sp-f hybridization.


The evaluation of competence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients to assume personal or collective responsibilities and the resulting legal implications is a relevant issue. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the attitudes of different medical specialists towards the disability of patients with Alzheimer's disease and practitioners' competence to interfere with decision-making autonomy. Methods Professionals from different areas (Neurology, Psychiatry, Geriatrics, and General Practice) were interviewed by one of the authors, after being presented a fictitious clinical case which raised several topics, namely: [1] Critical judgment and capacity of the patient to take decisions related to daily activities; [2] The role of family physicians in nominating trustees and caregivers. Results Answers to the first question did not differ regarding degree of preservation of awareness but at least 25% stressed that the patient must be carefully listened to, independent of caregiver or legal representative opinion. There were significant knowledge gaps in responses to the second question. Half of the physicians interviewed did not have adequate information about the legal aspects of caring for patients with Alzheimer's disease. Conclusions Legal aspects is a topic that must be incorporated into professional training in order to improve attitudes toward the long-term management of patients with dementia.


The images on serving marijuana, beer, bourbon, and soft drinks at a small informal party were compared with use of a posttest only with a control group experimental design. A total of 249 Ss were randomly assigned and received one of four shopping lists of a person planning the party. The four shopping lists were identical except for the fifth product; i.e., Ss received a shopping list including either marijuana, beer, bourbon, or soft drinks. Significant differences in images between the four products were found.


The evolution of knowledge regarding ocular toxoplasmosis over the last 30 years is described based on studies and observations performed in Southern Brazil. The isolation of Toxoplasma gondii established the definitive diagnosis of the disease. It was proven that in most cases, the disease was acquired after birth, a concept supported by the description of numerous familial cases and observation of the disease many years after primary infection. Epidemiological studies showed important regional variations in the prevalence of the disease due to different factors, including the types of strains involved, of which type I predominates. The large number of patients also enabled detailed study of the different forms of clinical presentation of the disease and its complications. New parameters have been established for the use of steroids and the management of pregnant women with active lesions. Studies on the epidemiology of toxoplasmic infection in pregnant women and newborns showed a high prevalence of infection. The different factors of exposure to infection have also been studied. Gradually, preventive actions have been developed in the sphere of public health, although they have not been sufficiently effective. Trends for future research over the next few years are also outlined.


Abstract The coastal waters of east Lewis from the Butt of Lewis to Loch Erisort are a proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA) for Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus). A total of 100.4 h (2006.4 km) of active search effort (Beaufort sea states ≤3) was collected during 72 dedicated boat surveys between 2010 and 2017 (primarily in August and September) in the southern part of the MPA and south to the Shiant Isles. Forty Risso's dolphin sightings and 24.1 h of encounter effort were recorded, predominantly along the southern and eastern Eye Peninsula in 20–40 m water depths and at distances <1 km from shore. Group size ranged from one to 50 animals (mean = 11.8 dolphins) and calves occurred in 37.5% of sightings. A total of 2404 shore-based scans (Beaufort sea states ≤3) carried out from Tiumpan Head between September 2011 and December 2017 resulted in 271 (11.3%) 'dolphin-present' scans. Dolphins were present year-round, with a seasonal increase between May and October. 'Calf-present' scans only occurred between April and October. Photo-identification images from 28 boat surveys produced a minimum population size of 117 animals. There was evidence of high inter- and intra-annual site fidelity, with individual dolphins photographically captured in up to six of the eight survey years, and between two and seven capture dates being recorded for over 45% of individuals within most years. The combined datasets support the importance of east Lewis for Risso's dolphins, and recommendations are made for ongoing monitoring of dolphin occurrence throughout the wider MPA.


In the past few decades creativity, innovation activities and the knowledge accumulated by human capital have become more significant within the operation of the corporations therefore, in order to preserve their competitiveness, companies have started to establish business cooperation agreements both with mar-ket and non-market participants. The main goal of such collaboration of innovative nature is to gain the lacking corporate information and get knowledge generated by professionals working outside the company. One of such collaborative forums is the economic-educational relation system aiming not only the preservation and improve-ment of corporate competiveness but the effective operation of universities with high quality educational and research programs.
Business success highly depends on competitiveness, which can be achieved by innovation. Innovation activities lay upon the skills of being able to renew and re-structure through the adequate use of knowledge. Future employees can acquire that knowledge produced by the technological development in a school-based education system then would be able to make profit out of it for the company as becoming part of the human capital. Business practice has been searching for solutions to which through the innovation chain the knowledge-producing organizations can be reactive resulting in further educational demands.
In the 21st century contributing with 10% to the GDP Hungarian automotive in-dustry has been considered one of the key strategic industries. Due to the technologi-cal development complex procedures and systems appeared within the industry and because of the fast industrial production the lifecycle of the product has shortened which led to enhanced market competition. This procedure was even intensified by the economic crisis in 2008. There is an urging need for effective and competitive operation synergy based on integrated networking by all market participants.
By supporting the above mentioned idea "Cooperation Agreement on the Higher Education and Research in the Automotive Industry" was established containing long-term collaborative plans of eight Hungarian universities and industrial players. The aim of the agreement is to harmonize the signers' activity in the field of engineer training, educational development and automotive research by cooperation and labour division. Besides this, agreement covers other key areas such as the training of inter-nationally competitive professionals with adequate theoretical and practical knowledge, the establishment of innovative and competitive companies with prominent R&D activity and the operation of recognized universities perfectly reflective to market demands.
Main parts of the collaborate program include the harmonisation of the theoretical and practical training and a quality-based education system, in which the number of stu-dents is appointed in line with market demands namely, instead of the so-called "mass-training-system" talent care programs are in favour. From an industrial view-point, through financial subsidies and level of regulations state support should also play a key role.

Keywords: innovation • networks • strategic cooperation • automotive industry


A unique law (Act 201) requiring livestock markets to place an identifying mark on calves up to 90 kg each time they are sold went into effect in Wisconsin in 1993. The intent of the law is to reduce the number of times calves are resold and hence become "stale." The original proponents of the law proposed that calves be ear-notched each time they are sold. Ear notching, however, was resisted by Wisconsin regulatory agencies partly because of fear of an adverse public reaction. These authors then conducted a study to determine the approximate amount of discomfort experienced by young Holstein calves during ear notching. Six 2-mo-old Holstein calves were used to determine heart rate and behavioral responses to a standard "V" pig ear notcher (6 mm wide x 14 mm deep) applied between the tip and halfway down the dorsal edge of the left ear. Five other calves were given 30 s of access to a rubber nipple to provide a comparison to a desirable stimulus. Ear notching only elicited a mild startle response that lasted 1 to 2 s followed by resumption of normal behavior. The calves presented with the nipple suckled or butted the nipple for the full 30 s. The mean heart rate for the 30-s period in which treatments occurred was 95 +/- 4.8 bpm and 110 +/- 5.8 bpm for the notched and suckled calves, respectively, and was not influenced by treatments (P = .50).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


: Gauge 7-0 DEXON polyglycolic acid sutures were used in 25 cataract extractions. The suture material handled well, formed small knots, and gave excellent results in all cases. The fine gauge suture is well suited for use in intraocular surgery.


This paper reports on the findings of a case study which explored the impact of using wikis as a tool in developing ESL students' writing skills. Seventeen undergraduate students enrolled in a required final year course participated in this study. Data was triangulated using several data collection methods which included drafts written by students, feedback provided and the revisions done via wikis, and individual interviews. Findings showed that the students used most of the feedback they received via wikis to revise their reports. Revisions made resulted in writing improvement. Sixteen students showed statistically significant improvements in writing. The findings illustrates that wikis can be an effective tool for teaching writing because feedback and revisions can be easily reviewed and addressed using the facility provided by this editable, web-based tool.


A series of 4 patients with pure, chronic and progressive motor neuropathy whose main clinical characteristics were asymmetric and distal weakness of the upper limbs, myokymia and fasciculations is presented. There were no sensory impairment and amyotrophy was observed in only one case. This picture suggested the diagnosis of motor neuron disease (MND). However, neurophysiologic examination demonstrated the presence of multifocal conduction blocks (CB) of the motor axons which were preferentially located in the proximal nerve segments and always at points atypical to nerve compression. The peripheral sensitive conductions and the somatosensory evoked potentials were normal, even through the nerve segments where the CB were located. Since this is a treatable potentially reversible syndrome, this motor neuropathy with CB should be included in the differential diagnosis of MND.


Kraft lignin (KL) is a by-product from cellulose production typically treated as a waste or used as a low-value fuel in heat and power generation in the pulp and paper industry. This study explores KL upgrading to monoaromatic compounds using supercritical water (SCW) as reaction medium. The effect of Ni–CeO2 catalysts supported on carbon nanofibers (CNF) and activated carbon (AC) on the product distribution was investigated. These catalysts were prepared by a wet-impregnation method with acetone, and reduced Ni was observed without the use of H2. CNF presented a high degree of stability in SCW. Ni in its reduced state was still present in all spent catalysts, mainly when CNF were the support. While catalysts supported in AC led to high yields of char and gas, a 56 wt% yield of a light liquid fraction, recovered as dichloromethane (DCM)-soluble product and consisting mainly of (methoxy)phenols (>80 mol%), was obtained in a batch reactor at 400 °C, 230 bar, with Ni–CeO2/CNF as a catalyst. A short reaction time was key to avoid the formation of gas and char. This study demonstrates that high yields of DCM-soluble products from KL and low char formation can be obtained by using only SCW and catalysts, an alternative to widely reported approaches like the addition of organic co-solvents (e.g., phenol) and/or H2.


The Present State of Solar Activity* By Seth B. Nicholson and Elizabeth Sternberg Mulders (Abstract) Sun-spot activity has been increasing rapidly since the minimum at 1933.8. It has already surpassed the activity at the last maximum and gives promise of the greatest activity since 1870. The time of maximum will probably be within a few months of 1938.0. Carnegie Institution of Washington Mount Wilson Observatory


An 11-year-old female died within hours of accidentally ingesting a solution of copper sulfate. A postmortem blood sample was found to contain 66 micrograms/mL copper. The initial qualitative identification of this poison in the body organs and fluids was by means of SEM-microprobe analysis (SEM-MPA) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The samples were quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry.


The article was prepared on the basis of a field study conducted at Udmurt State University within the "Transitive University in the Context of Global, National and Regional Challenges" Project. The article presents the results of a survey of employers on assessment the quality of training of graduates. The study focused on identifying criteria and channels for staff selection, as well as existing forms of cooperation between organizations of Udmurtia and educational institutions. The aim of the study was to clarify the role and place of Udmurt State University in the personnel training in the region. The research method was online questioning, the sample was spontaneous, the number of organizations was 192. The results of the study revealed a rather mixed picture. On the one hand, it is obvious that in general in Udmurtia organizations, rather low assessments of the quality of specialist training at Udmurt State University prevail, since most of the average grades are below 4 points. On the other hand, methods of cooperation with universities are formal and confined to organizing diploma / undergraduate practice and hiring young specialists. The low interest of employers in financing the development of new technologies and training of personnel is also obvious. In the vast majority of cases, enterprises want to get ready-made employees for their current needs without an agreed resource-consuming and long-term cooperation. Channels of communication and coordinated interaction on a long-term basis between the university and employers are most common either absent or are assessed as formal and episodic. Here, several significant reasons can be singled out such as insufficient financial resources of small organizations for working with universities; lack of time or desire on the part of organizations; lack of resources at the university for the implementation of the order; focus on "traditional industries" in the Udmurt Republic while neglecting the needs of the innovative potential development in the region. This results in the persistence of the employers' practice of "self-education in the workplace."


The rotor system in the helicopter generates lift. The rotor system has three parts. They are mast, hub and rotor blades. A metal shaft extends upwards from the helicopter is called mast. The mast is a hollow cylindrical shaft driven by transmission. The rotor blades are attached to the mast by means of the hub. The hub is the attachment point of the mast and rotor blades. Different methods are used for attachment of the blades to the hub. Based on the attachment method used, the rotor systems are classified. When rotor spins, control system sends inputs to blades and blade responds to control the helicopter. The center of lift on the whole rotor system moves in response to these inputs to effect pitch, roll, and upward motion.The hub should possess high strength because during flight, the blade weight and aerodynamic forces due to rotational speeds was carried by hub. The strength of the hub should be calculated. This project involves modeling of the rotor hub using NX-CAD software and analyzed the rotor hub using ANSYS software. The rotor hub is analyzed for static analysis using different materials.


Purpose To establish a link between silent retinal progressive impairment and cortical reorganization in a cohort of 15 asymptomatic patients harboring the 11778G>A mutation with good visual acuity and normal ocular examination (pre-clinical phase). We aimed to phenotype preclinical silent degeneration from the psychophysical, neurophysiological and structural point of view. Moreveover we aimed to establish whether retinal measures could explain cortical reorganization.

Methods We studied RGC function at the population level using pattern electrophysiology and chromatic contrast sensitivity along three chromatic axes. We used optical coherence tomography to measure macular, RGC nerve fiber layer as well as inner and outer retinal layer thickness. We then asked whether such measures could explain previously identified cortical reorganization as assessed by cortical magnetic resonance imaging thickness measures in extrastriate visual cortex.

Results We found that compensatory cortical plasticity occurring in V2 and V3 is predicted by thickness of macular RGC axonal layer. This was also the most discriminative measure between carriers and controls, as revealed by ROC analysis. Moreover we found that the substantial cortical reorganization that occurs in the carrier state, can be used to provide statistical discrimination between carrier and normal groups to a level that is similar to measures of retinal dysfunction.

Conclusion We conclude that cortical compensatory plasticity in visual areas V2 and V3 is triggered by pathology in retinal ganglion cell axons.


In this paper, the conditions of the incidence of the local bifurcation, such as a saddle-node pitchfork bifurcation and transcritical of an ecological system (consistingprey shelter (refuge) and age stages for both populations) considered to study. Lotka-Volterra type of functional response was suggested. Subsequently, the inquiry and analysis are remarked that the transcritical bifurcation transpires close to the equilibrium(symmetry) point , in addition to the incidence of asaddle-node bifurcation at symmetry points and . It should be mentioned that there is no likelihood of the incidence of the pitchfork bifurcation at every single point. In conclusion,s to illustrate the incidence of the local bifurcation of this system, some simulations were used. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of each parameter on the stability of equilibrium points.


A descriptive survey was done to assess knowledge & practice regarding NSI, & to find out the corelation between knowledge & practice among 100 health care workers like nurses, lab technicians of Private Hospitals, Pokhara, Nepal through purposive sampling. Self- administered questionnaire as demographic proforma, knowledge, and practice questionnaire were used. Majority of health care workers were females (93%) with mean age of 22.66 years (±3.1). Forty two percent had wrong concept about the meaning of NSI. There were only 35% of workers who dispose the sharps in cardboard box where as 65% used wrong place. Only 22% had a proper practice of disposal of sharp box when it is 3/4th full. While finding a used needle on the floor after closing the box with sharp only 38% use a new box which is the correct means. Seventy nine percent of workers expressed that, they never received any training in the prevention &/or treatment of NSI. There was a positive correlation between knowledge & practice scores (p= 0.004).


Many of the benefits that the housing government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) transmit to homebuyers stem from an implied federal guarantee arising from the GSEs' charter benefits and past supervisory forbearance. But this implicit guarantee also represents a risk to taxpayers if one of these GSEs—Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) System—becomes insolvent and the government provides financial assistance. ; In the wake of a $5 billion accounting restatement by Freddie Mac in 2003, concerns about taxpayer liability associated with the housing GSEs have led to various legislative proposals to reorganize their regulatory oversight. This article discusses these proposals, drawing on lessons from U.S. banking regulation to identify and evaluate the points of contention. ; The legislative proposals generally pertain to institutional design (where the safety-and-soundness regulator is located, how it is funded, and whom it should supervise) and institutional authorities (for example, discretion to alter capital requirements and the ability to appoint conservators and receivers). ; With respect to institutional design, the authors conclude that there may not be a clearly dominant approach. In regard to institutional authorities, the authors recommend that the safety-and-soundness regulator have responsibility for approving new programs and other activities, the discretion to set both minimum and risk-based capital requirements, receivership authority, and other enforcement authorities comparable to the federal banking agencies.


THE MAKING OF THE BIBLE begins with King David around 1000 B.C. and ends with EmperorJustinian around A.D. 550. Much ofscripture was written or transmitted to support and legitimate ancient Israelite rulers, the political system, the temple, or Christian bishops. These are the central assumptions of the present book, which is a dense, well-written, surveystyle text on Israelite, early Jewish, and early Christian history. The reviewer appreciates the authors' socio-political approach as well as their readiness to adopt and defend certain minority views in disputed areas of scholarship. Thus they regard the Book of Deuteronomy as compiled under KingJosiah's direction, refer to Jesus as someone trained by the Pharisees andJohn the Baptist, and view the Christian canon as a "late" (i.e., fourth-eentury) phenomenon. Unlike much ofrecent criticism, but like Michael Goulder in The Prayers of David (1990), they attribute a fair number of Psalms to the days of David (see the delightful chapter entitled, "David Begins the


Line Speed Publish/Subscribe Inter-networking (LIPSIN) is one of the proposed forwarding mechanisms in Information Centric Networking (ICN). It is a stateless source-routing approach based on Bloom filters. However, it has been shown that LIPSIN is vulnerable to brute-force attacks which may lead to distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks and unsolicited messages. In this work, we propose a new forwarding approach that maintains the advantages of Bloom filter based forwarding while allowing forwarding nodes to statelessly verify if packets have been previously authorized, thus preventing attacks on the forwarding mechanism. Analysis of the probability of attack, derived analytically, demonstrates that the technique is highly-resistant to brute-force attacks.


By selectively removing the GaAs cap layer on top of the InGaP/GaAs p-i-n photodiodes, a photodiode with high quantum efficiency in the 300-850-nm spectral range was realized. With antireflection coating designed for 850 nm, a quantum efficiency that is higher than 90% in the 420-850-nm range and higher than 70% in the 360-870-nm range was achieved. In addition, the photodiode, exhibiting a dark current smaller than several picoampere, has a 3-dB bandwidth higher than 9.7 GHz at the 850-nm wavelength. Since both high-efficiency and high-speed operation can be achieved, receivers based on such devices are suitable for both the 850- and 650-nm fiber communication systems.


In a verse by verse format, Lightfoot relates medieval rabbinic traditions, the writings of Josephus, and other Jewish materials to the New Testament. This edition is reprinted from the 1859 English edition, with a more recent introduction by R. Laird Harris, Professor of Old Testament at Covenant Theological Seminary.


Magnetotactic bacteria possess cellular compartments called magnetosomes that sense magnetic fields. Alignment of magnetosomes in the bacterial cell is necessary for their function, and this is achieved through anchoring of magnetosomes to filaments composed of the protein MamK. MamK is an actin homolog that polymerizes upon ATP binding. Here, we report the structure of the MamK filament at ∼6.5 Å, obtained by cryo‐Electron Microscopy. This structure confirms our previously reported double‐stranded, nonstaggered architecture, and reveals the molecular basis for filament formation. While MamK is closest in sequence to the bacterial actin MreB, the longitudinal contacts along each MamK strand most closely resemble those of eukaryotic actin. In contrast, the cross‐strand interface, with a surprisingly limited set of contacts, is novel among actin homologs and gives rise to the nonstaggered architecture.


BACKGROUND
Although patients with diabetes are frequently affected by periodontitis, only a few investigations have focused on gingivitis in this at-risk population. This randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial compared the response to a gingivitis treatment protocol that combined mechanical procedures and daily use of an essential oil (EO) mouthrinse between patients with and without diabetes.

METHODS
The whole-mouth periodontal probing depth (PD), gingival index (GI), and plaque index (PI) were monitored in gingivitis cases among systemically healthy patients (n = 60) or those with diabetes (n = 60) at baseline and 3 months after treatment. Levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and total bacterial load were determined by a real-time polymerase chain reaction in intrasulci plaque samples. The volume of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was quantified, and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels were determined in GCF samples. After a full-mouth ultrasonic debridement, patients were randomly assigned to an EO or a placebo rinse for 90 days (40 mL/day). The data were analyzed through repeated-measures analysis of variance and multiple comparisons Tukey tests (P <0.05).

RESULTS
GI was more severe in the diabetes group. Diabetes impaired GI and reduced GCF volume. PD, bacterial levels, and IL-1β improved similarly in both systemic conditions. The adjunctive use of EO provided greater reductions of PI, GI, total bacterial load, T. forsythia, A. actinomycetemcomitans, and GCF volume.

CONCLUSIONS
Response to gingivitis treatment in patients with diabetes can slightly differ from that in patients without diabetes. Daily use of an EO mouthrinse after ultrasonic debridement benefited patients with and without diabetes.


Professor Alan Glasper discusses the Department of Health's Duty of Candour consultation, which is reminiscent of the NPSA's Being Open Framework in its aims for openness across health care and creating a more accountable and transparent NHS.


The availability of genome sequence information from a large collection of strains of Saccharomyces isolated from a variety of geographic regions and ecological niches has enabled a detailed analysis of genome composition and phenotype evolution, the two components of strain diversity. These analyses have also provided a relatively complete depiction of the origins of wine strains. In population genomic analysis, wine strains of S. cerevisiae cluster as a highly related group, but one that shows a greater level of phenotypic differentiation than would be predicted based on the level of genomic similarity. Natural and human selection and genetic drift have played roles in the evolution of wine strain diversity. Phenotypic diversity is so extensive that no one strain accurately represents all wine strains with respect to biological properties and fermentation performance. In addition, both commercial and native isolates have been found to carry introgressions, regions of DNA derived from nonhomologous organisms, suggestive of cell fusion events with yeast of different genera and species. Comparative sequence analysis has thus refined our knowledge of yeast lineages and offers explanation for the evolution of phenotypic diversity observed in winery and vineyard populations.


Recent studies propose enhancing machine learning models by aligning the geometric characteristics of the latent space with the underlying data structure. Instead of relying solely on Euclidean space, researchers have suggested using hyperbolic and spherical spaces with constant curvature, or their combinations (known as product manifolds), to improve model performance. However, there exists no principled technique to determine the best latent product manifold signature, which refers to the choice and dimensionality of manifold components. To address this, we introduce a novel notion of distance between candidate latent geometries using the Gromov-Hausdorff distance from metric geometry. We propose using a graph search space that uses the estimated Gromov-Hausdorff distances to search for the optimal latent geometry. In this work we focus on providing a description of an algorithm to compute the Gromov-Hausdorff distance between model spaces and its computational implementation.


ABSTRACT Gametophyte morphology and development of seven species of Cyatheacae in China are described. The spores of the seven species are of typical shape (trilete, tetrahedral) and they exhibit Cyathea-type germination. The gametophytes undergo Adiantum-type development with occasional Drynaria-type development. Filaments are usually 2–3 cells long. The normal adult prothalli are cordate and thalloid with prominent cushions in the middle of the two wings. Prothalli are usually bisexual and antheridia form earlier than archegonia. Lingulate, strap-like and branched prothalli easily grow on the crowded improved Knop's agar media, which produce notches late and produce more antheridia. In distilled water, filamentous prothalli only produce antheridia. The shapes of the mature prothalli of Sphaeropteris brunoniana and Alsophila austro-yunnanensis are distinct among seven species. Multicellular chlorophyllous hairs appear on dorsal or ventral surfaces in the archegonial region near the notch when the prothallus matures, and the hairs are scaly when they get old. Hairs of the prothallus are like those on the juvenile sporophyte fronds. Vegetative proliferations of old protahlli have been observed.


Given the unprecedented novel nature and scale of coronavirus and the global nature of this public health crisis, which upended many public/environmental research norms almost overnight. However, with further waves of the virus expected and more pandemics anticipated. The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 opened our eyes to the ever-changing conditions and uncertainty that exists in our world today, particularly with regards to environmental and public health practices disruption. This paper explores environmental and public health evidence-based practices toward responding to Covid-19. A literature review tried to do a deep dive through the use of various search engines such as Mendeley, Research Gate, CAB Abstract, Google Scholar, Summon, PubMed, Scopus, Hinari, Dimension, OARE Abstract, SSRN, Academia search strategy toward retrieving research publications, "gray literature" as well as reports from expert working groups. To achieve enhanced population health, it is recommended to adopt widespread evidence-based strategies, particularly in this uncertain time. As only together can evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) can become a reality which include effective policies and practices, transparency and accountability of decisions, and equity outcomes; these are all more relevant in resource-constrained contexts, such as Nigeria. Effective and ethical EIDM though requires the production as well as use of high-quality evidence that are timely, appropriate and structured. One way to do so is through co-production. Co-production (or co-creation or co-design) of environmental/public health evidence considered as a key tool for addressing complex global crises such as the high risk of severe COVID-19 in different nations. A significant evidence-based component of environmental/public health (EBEPH) consist of decisions making based on best accessible, evidence that is peer-reviewed; using data as well as systematic information systems; community engagement in policy making; conducting sound evaluation; do a thorough program-planning frameworks; as well as disseminating what is being learned. As researchers, scientists, statisticians, journal editors, practitioners, as well as decision makers strive to improve population health, having a natural tendency toward scrutinizing the scientific literature aimed at novel research findings serving as the foundation for intervention as well as prevention programs. The main inspiration behind conducting research ought to be toward stimulating and collaborating appropriately on public/environmental health action. Hence, there is need for a "Plan B" of effective behavioral, environmental, social as well as systems interventions (BESSI) toward reducing transmission.


Background: Central 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) defects are responsible for the occurrence of audiogenic seizure-induced respiratory arrest (S-IRA) in DBA/1 mice, an animal model of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). We aimed to explore the effect of a high tryptophan diet (HTD) on SUDEP and its possible mechanism involving 5-HT metabolism via gut microbiota.Methods: Primed animals were randomly assigned to the normal diet (ND) group or HTD group. Before and after diet interventions, 1) S-IRA rates were evaluated, 2) the concentrations of upstream-to-downstream 5-HT metabolites in the plasma and brain were detected by ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography, and 3) the fecal flora biodiversity and species composition were analysed by 16S rDNA microbiota profiling. Second, antibiotics or probiotics combined with the HTD and S-IRA rates were reassessed.Results: The S-IRA rate in DBA/1 mice was significantly reduced in the HTD group compared with that in control. The HTD obviously increased the levels of tryptophan in the telencephalon and 5-HT and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid levels in both the telencephalon and midbrain. The HTD significantly increased the species richness and diversity of gut microbiota. Moreover, there was a significant difference in the gut microbiota composition between the HTD and ND groups. However, antibiotics or probiotics had no synergistic or antagonistic effects on S-IRA reduction mediated by the HTD.Conclusions: An HTD is efficient in lowering S-IRA rates in DBA/1 mice, possibly via modulation of 5-HT metabolism and gut microbiota. Our findings shed light on dietary prevention of SUDEP.


this paper focuses on the contact characteristics of the blade root joints subjected to the dry friction damping under periodic excitation. The numerical method and experimental procedure are combined to trace the contact behavior in the nonlinear vibration conditions. In experimental procedure, a novel excitation method alongside the accurate measurements is used to determine the frequencies of the blade under different axial loads. In numerical simulations, local behavior of contact areas is investigated using the reduction method as a reliable and fast solver. Subsequently, by using both experimental measurements and numerical outcomes in a developed code, the global stiffness matrix is calculated. This leads to find the normal and tangential stiffness in the contact areas of a dovetail blade root joints. The results indicate that the proposed method can provide an accurate quantitative assessment for investigation the dynamic response of the joints with focusing the contact areas.


The modern world is divided into Mac people and IBM people, and I am one of the former. Previously, I was a FORTRAN person, and I approached computers as I would a rabid dog—only if I had no other choice. The user-friendly computers currently available make computers not only facile but fun, as witnessed by the billions of dollars and millions of hours annually spent on computer games. Not to be computer literate is to be left behind in the information age. The software reviewed here is compatible with Macintosh computers with system 7.0 or higher. The IBM version will run with Windows 95. There is also a network version available, which could be used to connect multiple stations in a hospital or office, a big advantage over standard textbooks. Another advantage is the inclusion of a toll-free number and Internet address for technical assistance with the program. The


Colon cancer (CC) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumours of the alimentary canal. It is unclear whether pyroptosis-related lncRNA expression is correlated with CC prognosis. We discovered 20 pyroptosis-related lncRNAs that were expressed differently in CC and normal colon tissues in our investigation. Based on differentially expressed genes (DEGs), we grouped all CC patients into two categories (Clusters 1 and 2). Cluster 1 was shown to be connected with a higher overall survival rate, upregulated expression of immune checkpoints, higher immunoscores, higher estimated scores, and immune cell infiltration. Using data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), to create a multigene signature, the predictive significance of each lncRNA linked with pyroptosis for survival was assessed. A 9-lncRNA signature was established using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression method, and all CC patients in the TCGA cohort were classified into low-risk or high-risk groups. The low-risk CC patients had a much greater chance of survival than those in the high-risk group. The risk score is an independent prognostic indicator for predicting survival. In addition, risk characteristics are linked to immune characteristics. In summary, pyroptosis-related lncRNAs can be used to predict CC prognosis and participate in tumour immunity.


Purpose: Our goal of this study was to compare the mechanism of injury and the clinical outcomes between the non-traumatic and traumatic type II SLAP lesions. Materials and Methods: From January 2007 to May 2009, the sunjects of this study were 27 patients who had undergone operations for isolated type II SLAP lesions. The lesions were classified according to Burkhart's method. The lesions that were located on the anterior-superior labrum were classified as type I, those lesions located on the posterior-superior labrum were classified as type II and those lesions located on the anterior-posterior labrum were classified as type III. The clinical outcomes were evaluated by the UCLA score and the KSS score preoperatively and postoperatively. Results: Of the 27 cases, 16 cases were traumatic and eleven cases were non-traumatic. In the traumatic group, there were 12, 2 and 2 cases of type I, type II and type III, respectively (p=0.013). In non-traumatic group, there were 2, 6 and 3 cases of type I, type II and type III (p=0.026). Anterior lesions were more frequent in the traumatic group and posterior lesions were more frequent in the non-traumatic group. For the clinical outcomes, the mean preoperative UCLA score and KSS score were 18 (range: 14~23) and 48 (range: 32~76), respectively, and the postoperative UCLA score and KSS score were 32 (range: 28~33) and 86 (range: 71~92), respectively, in the traumatic group, and the preoperative UCLA score and KSS score were 21 (18~25) and 58 (41~68), respectively, and the postoperative UCLA score and KSS score were 29 (26~31) and 81 (68~89), respectively in the non-traumatic group. There was no significant statistical difference of clinical outcomes between the two groups (p=0.317, 0.405). Conclusion: In this study, the anatomical feature of type II SLAP lesion was associated with a trauma mechanism. Therefore, a trauma mechanism must be considered when planning the surgical treatment for type II SLAP lesions.


The accuracy of photothermal depth profiling of the thermal conductivity profile of thermally inhomogeneous materials is discussed in detail. The reconstruction error is statistically analysed as a function of depth and noise, for different classes of profiles. The analysis is done in the framework of reconstructions obtained by a neural network approach, thermal wave backscattering theory and a method which is based on a statistical sampling of the chi-squared function in a restricted part of the profile space. The latter analysis yields confidence intervals for the reconstructions.


A new mesophilic strain of Methanothrix, strain FE, was highly purified from the sludge of an anaerobic digester after enrichment on sodium acetate and is described. Strain FE was compared with other strains of Methanothrix, Methanothrix soehngenii strain OpfikonT (= DSM 2139T) (T = type strain) and Methanothrix concilii strain GP6T (= DSM 3671T). The differences within the strains were mainly related to their requirement for yeast extract. The three strains were found to be similar in their deoxyribonucleic acid guanine-plus-cytosine contents (50.2 to 52.6 mol%) and showed 100% deoxyribonucleic acid-deoxyribonucleic acid homology. For these reasons we propose to recognize synonymy, reject the name Methanothrix concilii Patel 1985, 35:223, and assign this organism to the species Methanothrix soehngenii Huser, Wuhrmann and Zehnder 1983, 33:439.


The meaning and structure of self-esteem self-esteem research problems and issues self-esteem research findings - building a consensus major self-esteem theories and programmes a phenomenological theory of self-esteem enhancing self-esteem phenomenologically.


The explosive growth in using scalable and cost-effective clusters and local area environments involve the design of high performance networks aimed at providing QoS to multimedia flows. Thus, the main goal pursued by the Multi-Media (MMR) project is to design a single-chip router able to efficiently handle multimedia flows and best-effort traffic. In this paper we focus on the performance evaluation of the MMR architecture using a mix of CBR, VBR and best effort workload. Preliminary simulation results show that, by using simple link and switch scheduling algorithms, the router is able to achieve a link bandwidth utilization of 80%, while still providing QoS guarantees to both CBR and VBR traffic in the presence of best-effort traffic.


Exosomes are one type of membrane vesicles secreted into extracellular space by most types of cells. In addition to performing many biological functions particularly in cell-cell communication, cumulative evidence has suggested that several biological entities in exosomes like proteins and microRNAs are closely associated with the pathogenesis of most human malignancies and they may serve as invaluable biomarkers for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. This provides a commanding impetus and growing demands for simple, efficient, and affordable techniques to isolate exosomes. Capitalizing on the physicochemical and biochemical properties of exosomes, a number of techniques have been developed for the isolation of exosomes. This article summarizes the advances in exosome isolation techniques with an emphasis on their isolation mechanism, performance, challenges, and prospects. We hope that this article will provide an overview of exosome isolation techniques, opening up new perspectives towards the development more innovative strategies and devices for more time saving, cost effective, and efficient isolations of exosomes from a wide range of biological matrices.


This research examined the effect of Land Surface Temperatures (LSTs) and elevations by the synthesis of remote sensing and landscape metrics on the spread of Buruli Ulcer (BU) caused by Mycobacterium Ulcerans (MU) in the Amansie West District (AWD), Upper Denkyira West District (UDWD), with Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipal (TNM) as a case control study area. LST maps were derived from Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM), Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper plus (ETM+) and Landsat Operational Land Imager (OLI). In-situ ground truth temperatures were used together with the derived LSTs from the Landsat data. Elevation maps were also generated from ASTER Global Digital Elevation Models (GDEM) and from fieldwork. Epidemiological data of disease were collected from the National Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, District Hospitals and from fieldwork. Twenty-seven (27) communities were found to have cases of BU in the three study areas. Statistical analysis was applied to the epidemiological data to identify the relationship between LSTs, elevations and BU disease spread. Results showed that, landscape factors, such as rural and low-lying elevations of between 85 m and 202 m above Mean Sea Level as well as LST ranges of 20.8 C to 34.2 C, strongly correlated with BU disease. This research offers an opportunity to explore the effects of elevation and LST conditions on the spread of BU disease caused by MU. Results will contribute to public health and environmental management in the study areas.


Part I: Selling as a Profession 1: The Life, Times, and Career of the Professional Salesperson 2: Relationship Marketing: Where Personal Selling Fits 3: Ethics First...Then Customer Relationships Part II: Preparation for Relationship Selling 4: The Psychology of Selling: Why People Buy 5: Communication for Relationship Building: It's Not All Talk 6: Sales Knowledge: Customers, Products, Technologies Part III: The Relationship Selling Process 7: Prospecting-The Lifeblood of Selling 8: Planning the Sales Call Is a Must 9: Carefully Select Which Sales Presentation Method to Use 10: Begin Your Presentation Strategically 11: Elements of a Great Sales Presentation 12: Welcome Your Prospect's Objections 13: Closing Begins the Relationship 14: Service and Follow-Up for Customer Retention Part IV: Managing Yourself, Your Career, and Others 15: Time, Territory, and Self-Management: Keys to Success 16: Planning, Staffing, and Training Successful Salespeople 17: Motivation, Compensation, Leadership, and Evaluation of Salespeople Appendix A: Sales Call Role-Plays Appendix B: Personal Selling Experiential Exercises Appendix C: Comprehensive Sales Cases Appendix D: Selling Globally Appendix E: Answers to Crossword Puzzles Glossary Notes Photo Credits Index


Transnationalism refers to the spread of economic, political, and cultural processes beyond national borders. Sebatik Island is unique because the northern region of the island is owned by Malaysia and the southern region belongs to Indonesia. No fence or wall was built to separate the two communities, and there is an informal cross border movement between Malaysia and Indonesia communities. The existence of cross-border trade between two neighboring countries reflects economic ties between border communities. The objectives of this study are 1) to measure the degree of socioeconomic ties between communities across borders between Sebatik Malaysia-Indonesia; 2) to assess the feasibility of creating Sebatik Border Trade Center for regional economic integration. This study employed an in-depth interview with the stakeholders involved in the governance of development in the study area. The selection of stakeholders was based on purposive sampling. Secondary data relating to economic activities was also used to strengthen the findings of the in-depth interview. Fieldwork to Sebatik Island was also carried out for observation of the current economic scenario. The economic fundamentals of Sebatik Island Malaysia-Indonesia were examined with the feasibility of regional economic integration by establishing a Border Trade Center in the Island. Thus, transborder economic development can be planned systematically by both the government of Malaysia and Indonesia as a strategic approach to strengthen the Sebatik economy. The development rubrics of the Sebatik Border Trade Center will take into account economic considerations, while maintaining security approaches to enhance economic development in the border areas.


: The purpose of this research was to gather information in exploring the discourses of the student-mothers in the academe impacting struggles, hopes, aspirations, and their coping mechanisms employed on the different pressures they faced. The following research objectives informed this research: to describe the struggles and journey of student-mothers; to determine the hopes and aspirations of student-mothers; and to determine the coping mechanisms of student-mothers of the different pressures they are facing. This phenomenological study explored and described the experiences of student mothers. A researcher-made interview guide questionnaire was used in gathering data. This study also involved collecting, compiling, and analyzing data gathered through semi-structured interviews. From the three major themes, namely: 1) struggles and journey; 2) hopes and aspirations; and 3) coping mechanisms; twelve sub-themes emerged which included time management, financial concerns, negative criticisms from people, motherhood responsibilities, health reasons, intellectual challenges, to complete a degree, to land a job immediately for a better life, to make the family proud, strengthening family bond, self-motivation, and support from family, friends, and teachers. This research implies encouragement to other mothers to continue their incomplete education even if they already have children or families of their own. Further, the research suggests a motivation to push and work harder for still; victory awaits those who sacrifice and persevere. Future directions are also discussed in this study.


Context. The young active G-dwarf star V889 Herculis (HD 171488) shows pronounced spots in Doppler images as well as large variations in photometry and radial velocity (RV) measurements. However, the lifetime and evolution of its active regions are not well known. Aims. We study the existence and stability of active regions on the star's surface using complementary data and methods. Furthermore, we analyze the correlation of spot-induced RV variations and Doppler images. Methods. Photometry and high-resolution spectroscopy are used to examine stellar activity. A CLEAN-like Doppler imaging (DI) algorithm is used to derive surface reconstructions. We study high-precision RV curves to determine their modulation due to stellar activity in analogy to the Rossiter-McLaughlin effect. To this end we develop a measure for the shift of a line's center and compare it to RV measurements. Results. We show that large spotted regions are present on V889 Her for more than one year, remaining similar in their large scale structure and position. This applies to several time periods of our observations, which cover more than a decade. We use DI line profile reconstructions to identify the influence of long-lasting starspots on RV measurements. In this way we verify the RV curve's agreement with our Doppler images. Based on long-term RV data we confirm V889 Her's rotation period of 1.3371 ± 0.0002 days.


Mammalian dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, the fourth enzyme of pyrimidine de novo synthesis is an integral protein of the inner mitochondrial membrane that faces the intermembrane space and is functionally connected to the respiratory chain via ubiquinone. Here, we describe the first cloning and analyzing of the complete cDNA of mouse dihydroorotate dehydrogenase. Based on our recent functional expression of the full-length rat and human dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, here we expressed N-terminal-truncated C-terminal-histidine-tagged constructs of the mouse, rat and human enzymes in Escherichia coli. These proteins were devoid of the N-terminal bipartite sequence consisting of the mitochondrial targeting sequence and adjacent hydrophobic domain necessary for import and proper location and fixation of the enzyme in the inner mitochondrial membrane. By employing metal-chelate affinity chromatography under native conditions, the enzymes were purified without detergents to a specific activity of more than 100 micromol x min(-1) x mg(-1) at pH optimum of 8.0--8.1. Flavin analyses by UV-visible spectrometry of the native enzymes gave fairly stoichiometric ratios of 0.6--1.2 mol flavin per mol protein. The kinetic constants of the truncated rat enzyme (K(m) = 11 microM dihydroorotate; K(m) = 7 microM ubiquinone) and human enzyme (K(m) = 10 microM dihydroorotate; K(m) = 14 microM ubiquinone) were very close to those recently reported for the full-size enzymes. The constants for the mouse enzyme, K(m) = 26 microM dihydroorotate and K(m) = 62 microM ubiquinone, were slightly elevated in comparison to those of the other species. The three truncated enzymes were tested for their efficacy with five inhibitors of topical clinical relevance against autoimmune disorders and tumors. Whereas the presence of the N-terminus of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase was essentially irrelevant for the efficacy of the malononitrilamides A77-1726, MNA715 and MNA279 with the rat and human enzyme, the N-termini were found to be important for the efficacy of the dianisidine derivative redoxal. Moreover, the complete N-terminal part of the human enzyme seemed to be of crucial importance for the 'slow-binding' features of the cinchoninic acid derivative brequinar, which was suggested to be one of the reasons for the narrow therapeutic window reported from clinical trials on its anti-proliferative and immunosuppressive action.


ABSTRACT Purposes: To study the clinical and genetic background of a series of Italian patients affected by pattern dystrophy (PD). Methods: We reviewed patients with a clinical diagnosis of PD examined at the Eye Clinic in Florence from 2012 to 2019. We took into consideration patients with a standard ophthalmological examination, personal and familial ophthalmological history, fundus imaging, and molecular genetic analysis of genes PRPH2 and BEST1. We labelled patients with BEST1 and PRPH2 mutations as m-PD group (mutated) whereas patients with no mutations in these 2 genes as nm-PD group (non-mutated). Results: Seventy-seven PD patients were assessed (average age 59.7 ± 14.2, range 31–88 years). Fifty patients were placed in the nm-PD group and 27 in the m-PD. Pathogenic BEST1 and PRPH2 mutations were detected in 7% and 22% of PD patients, respectively. In total, we reported 1 BEST1 and 8 PRPH2 novel mutations. Ten patients were characterized by drusen in the nm-PD group whereas in no patients in the m-PD group drusen were detected at the fundus. Conclusions: An important proportion of patients affected by PD showed BEST1 or PRPH2 mutations. Patients affected by drusen represent a different sub-phenotype. Genetic examination is recommended for a correct clinical management.


Recent research in the broad scope of structural health monitoring has introduced a somewhat new paradigm within the context of vibration-based damage detection. The incorporation of statistical-based analysis has shown great promise in more accurately assessing the appearance, the location, and the scope (Levels I-III) of damage in structures from measured global vibration properties. One of the most important and least-developed aspects of the newer paradigm is the problem of "feature extraction," or identifying the most appropriate measurands, whether direct or indirect, for sensitively assessing damage. In this paper, we propose a feature extracted from a nonlinear time series involving attractor variance and test it on an eight-degree-of-freedom structure subject to a linear damage model.


Gas migration in a goaf is the cause of upper corner gas over limit which greatly influences coal mining safety. To explore gas migration law, this paper provides a Lattice Boltzmann (LB) simulation of gas migration in a heterogeneous goaf of a fully mechanized coal caving mining face. The goaf of a fully mechanized coal caving mining face is an area which fills with heterogeneous porous media and gas migration in it is complicated seepage movement which contains laminar, transitional and turbulent flow. Under the amended Brinkman-Forchheimer-Darcy law, this paper provides a control system which reflects the characters of gas migration law in a heterogeneous goaf of a fully mechanized coal caving mining face. Multi-components LBM is used to solve the complicated control system. Two Lattice Boltzmann Equations (LBEs) are constructed to simulate the atmosphere and gas seepage velocity field respectively. By the evolution of these two LB models, simulation results are gained. The simulation can produce many data such as speed, pressure and concentration in every time and space, thus we can get gas migration law directly. A case study showed: This method can combine time, space and system action together. It can simulate and analyze acutely the situation of gas migration in direct condition and provide an alterable method to reveal and control gas migration in an underground coal mine.


Ismaili and Other Arabic Manuscripts is a supplement to Adam Gacek's two-volume Catalogue of Arabic Manuscripts in the Library of the Institute of Ismaili Studies, published in London, 1984-1985. This new catalogue includes 189 Arabic manuscripts not listed earlier by Gacek or which have been acquired since then by the Institute of Ismaili Studies Library. The majority of the works belong to the theological, philosophical and historical traditions of Fatimid and post-Fatimid Yemeni Ismaili literature, including manuscripts by important and hitherto unknown authors from Syria. The catalogue is arranged alphabetically by author and chronologically by title and provides details of the content of each work and other relevant information of a literary, historical and doctrinal nature. There are references to other catalogues listing the same works to be found in other collections, followed by details of the main editions, translations and studies. Ismaili and Other Arabic Manuscripts is fully illustrated with colour photographs of selected manuscripts.