The objective of this study was to determine if the inflammation associated with subclinical endometritis (SCE) is a part of the mechanism by which reproductive performance is reduced in cows with this disease. If it is, reducing inflammation associated with SCE with a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) should reduce the severity [as measured by average polymorphonuclear cell (PMN) percentage] of uterine pathology and improve reproductive performance. It was also investigated whether the NSAID treatment reduced metabolic indicators of systemic inflammation previously reported to be altered in cows with SCE. Holstein-Friesian and Friesian-Jersey cross dairy cows (n=213) were paired by calving date and d-14 uterine PMN percentage and randomly assigned to 3 injections at intervals of 3 d of an NSAID (1.4 mg of carprofen/kg; n=104) between 21 and 31 d postpartum or left as untreated controls (n=109). Cows with ≥14% PMN (upper quartile of PMN percentage) in the cytological sample collected at d 14 postpartum were defined as having SCE. The average d-14 PMN percentage was low (9.9%) and a high self-cure rate of SCE (>90%) at d 42 was observed. Treatment with an NSAID reduced plasma concentrations of aspartate aminotransferase and increased pregnancy rate in SCE cows. However, no effect of the NSAID treatment was observed on PMN percentage at d 42, postpartum anovulatory interval, or milk production. Compared with cows without SCE, cows with SCE had lower plasma albumin concentration, albumin:globulin ratio, and body condition score, but higher nonesterified fatty acids on the day of calving. These results indicate that cows with SCE are experiencing a physiological dysfunction, including lower body condition, liver dysfunction, and greater metabolic challenge during the periparturient period. Further research is required to determine the effect of NSAID on SCE and to evaluate the influence of timing of drug application on treatment effectiveness.


Abstract Brain abscesses caused by group A Streptococcus (GAS) are infrequently encountered in children. We present two cases of brain abscess (one cerebellar and one located in the temporal lobe) due to GAS infection occurring in close temporal proximity in previously healthy young children living in different geographic areas of southern Israel. The relevant literature since 2000, in the context of recent epidemiological data reporting an increase in the incidence of invasive GAS infections, is reviewed.


The plane, R2, with the regular Euclidean distance is a metric space. Of special interest is the finite case, where X is an n-point set. Then, the function d can be specified by (n 2 ) real numbers. Alternatively, one can think about (X, d) as a weighted complete graph, where positive weights are specified on the edges, and these weights comply with the triangle inequality. Finite metric spaces rise naturally from (sparse) graphs. Indeed, let G = (X, E) be an undirected weighted graph defined over X, and let dG(x, y) be the length of the shortest path between x and y in G. It is easy to verify that (X, dG) is a finite metric space. As such if the graph G is sparse, it provides a compact representation to the finite space (X, dG).


In this work, we explore the nonlinear pulse dynamics in a SESAM-free, mode-locked electrically-pumped (EP) VECSEL. The laser setup is illustrated in Fig. 1 (left) and includes an EP-VECSEL chip, a curved output-coupler with a radius of curvature of 75 mm and 10 % out-coupling, and an adjustable intracavity slit directly in front of the output-coupler. The output-coupler is placed on a translation stage to allow for variation of the cavity length and a polarizing isolator is used for suppression of back-reflections.


We present our research on continuous speech recognition of the surface electromyographic signals that are generated by the human articulatory muscles. Previous research on electromyographic speech recognition was limited to isolated word recognition because it was very difficult to train phoneme-based acoustic models for the electromyographic speech recognizer. In this paper, we demonstrate how to train the phoneme-based acoustic models with carefully designed electromyographic feature extraction methods. By decomposing the signal into different feature space, we successfully keep the useful information while reducing the noise. Additionally, we also model the anticipatory effect of the electromyographic signals compared to the speech signal. With a 108-word decoding vocabulary, the experimental results show that the word error rate improves from 86.8% to 32.0% by using our novel feature extraction methods.


Background/Aims: The link between abdominal fat and bone mineral content (BMC), independent of weight, has not been extensively studied. In Latino children, the contributions of abdominal subcutaneous and visceral fat to BMC have not been examined. Research on the effect of leptin on BMC has also been inconclusive. Methods: The present study included 256 overweight Latino children (111 girls, 145 boys; mean BMI 28.2; age 11.1 ± 1.7 years) from Los Angeles, California. Subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue (SAAT) and intra-abdominal adipose tissue (IAAT) were determined by single-slice magnetic resonance imaging. BMC was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Results: Independent of age, Tanner stage and weight, abdominal adipose tissue (SAAT + IAAT) was inversely correlated with BMC (r = –0.46, p < 0.0001; n = 256). In girls, there was an inverse correlation between SAAT and BMC (r = –0.38, p < 0.05), between IAAT and BMC (r = –0.32, p < 0.05) and between leptin and BMC (r = –0.39, p < 0.05). In boys, SAAT and BMC were inversely correlated (r = –0.26, p < 0.05), but the correlation between IAAT and BMC was not significant (p = 0.22). Leptin was also inversely correlated with BMC (r = –0.38, p < 0.05) in boys and contributed to the variances in BMC in both girls and boys. Conclusion: Total abdominal adipose fat and leptin are negatively associated with BMC in Latino children. The correlation between SAAT and BMC is stronger in girls than boys. IAAT and BMC are negatively associated in girls but not correlated in boys.


The present study was to determine and analyze the psychometric properties of self-concept (AF-5) and resilience (CD-RISC). The aims of this study as to describe and analyze the relationships between them and specify the effect of hours of regular training and position in basketball on the psychosocial dimensions (self-concept and resilience) in Spanish adolescents basketball players, considering simultaneously personal and physical sports variables. Participants were 74 youth players, aged between 12 and 16 years. It conducted an exploratory factor analysis and regression analysis and the effect they had training hours, positioning, on the dimensions of the test Autoconcepto Form-5 (AF-5) Garcia and Musitu (1999) and explores resilience (CD-RISC), Connor and Davidson (2003). The results indicate that the questionnaires CD-RISC and AF-5 are applicable to the population of youth basketball players. These are challenging the action-oriented behavior and familiar self-concept is high in relation to the other dimensions. Positioning in the field has no influence on the psychosocial aspects and the regression analysis establishes that longer training arean increase in self-concept.


In order to control non-equilibrium processes and to describe the fat-tail phenomenon in econophysics, we generalize the traditional the Fokker–Planck equation (FPE) by including a quadratic correlation potential, and by making the time-dependent drift–diffusion coefficients. We investigate the su(1,1)⊕u(1) algebraic structure and obtain the exact solutions to the generalized time-dependent FPE by using the algebraic dynamical method. Based on the exact solution, an important issue in modern econophysics, i.e. the fat-tail distribution in stock markets, is analysed.


This thesis focuses on the relationship between mental health level of the college students and the culture on school physical education, based on an investigation and analysis of mental health level of the college students and the physical education of Huaiyin Teachers college. The study shows good physical education atmospheres have a positive effect on mental health of the college students as a whole.


Over the period 2008–2014, the AfSIS project has compiled two soil profile data sets: the Africa Soil Profiles (legacy) database [Leenaars, 2014] and the AfSIS Sentinel Site (new soil samples) database [Vagen et al, 2010], jointly consisting of ca. 28 thousand sampling locations. Using these soil point observations and an extensive collection of global (SoilGrids1km) and local (African continent) environmental covariates, ISRIC - World Soil Information, in collaboration with The Earth Institute, Columbia University, World Agroforestry Centre, Nairobi and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), have produced (February 2015) predictions of soil properties — organic carbon, pH, sand, silt and clay fractions, coarse fragments, bulk density, cation-exchange capacity, total nitrogen, exchangeable acidity, Al content, and exchangeable bases (Ca, K, Mg, Na) — for the whole African continent at 250 m spatial resolution at two or six standard soil depths. The predictions are obtained using an automated mapping framework (3D regression-kriging based on random forests). Compressed GeoTiffs of the soil property maps, together with all metadata, input data sets and the R functions used to generate the maps, are available for download from here. A web-mapping interface to the maps is available via: http://af.soilgrids.org/. Read more about how were these maps made.


The ultrasound velocities in and densities of mixtures of cyclohexane with n-pentanol {x1n-C5H11OH + (1-x1)C6H12} and with 2-methylbutan-2-ol {x1tert- C5H11OH + (1-x1)C6H12} have been measured at 293.15K. Using the measurement results in connection with the literature data, the following quantities have been determined: isothermal and adiabatic compressibility coefficients, βT = -1/V(∂V/∂p)T and βs = -1/V(∂V/∂p)s, respectively, the adiabatic compressibility, κs = -(∂V/∂p)s, the free intermolecular length, L, and the excess values of the molar volume, VE, of the adiabatic compressibility coefficient, &betaEs, and of the adiabatic compressibility, &kappaEs. The dependences of those excess functions on the mixture composition, expressed in mole fractions, were represented by Redlich-Kister equations.


The development objective of the Hubei Inland Waterway Improvement Project for China is to improve inland waterway transport capacity along the Han River in support of low carbon development. Some of the negative impacts and mitigation measures include: (i) continue to implement national and local fishing moratorium orders to keep ecological balance of Han River basins; (ii) construct fishways and release fries (artificially reproduced) into the river to restore and protect fish varieties and restore fishermen's livelihoods along Yicheng section of Han River; (iii) protect aquatic environment and enhance fishery management at reservoir area and dam area; (iv) local labors shall be preferred for project construction and field lifting to increase their incomes; (v) labor service and daily consumables (such as grains and vegetables) shall be bought from nearby poor persons; (vi) Yicheng Municipal Labor Bureau will choose those having labor ability from the vulnerable groups and poor people affected by land acquisition and teach them all kinds of labor skills; and (vii) at poor villages, roads shall be expanded to improve their living and production conditions.


Introduction:First, definition the stem cell refers to those cells that are still not clear and are not equipped for a particular task. These cells have proliferative properties and  ability to differentiate into other types of cells have become. This characteristic of stem cells to self-directed has absorbed professional opinion that extensive research is done in this regard. Nowadays, stem cells are the first hope to restore damaged tissues and perhaps in the future are to build human organs. Stem cells are able to generate any cell type-specific function, such as heart muscle cells or insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Methods:
Literature survey in the field of jurisprudence and legal issues of stem cells, The regard simulation issues in recent years research has been considered in detail with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences by holding of the Third Conference on Islamic views to address issues of simulations and jurisprudence held in 1381. It carried out medical and legal discussions which are printed in the third congress of the book.
Conclusion:
Stem cells and its achievements in the current medical knowledge is embryonic research that has a special place in our country, But this with astonishing results combined with legal jurisprudence and incidentally also has raised for the research challenges the most. Less research has been done issues of jurisprudence important challenge in the field of ethical issues related to damage to the inner cell of stem opponent. Mass of the embryo is 2 to 5 days used to grow stem cells.
Key Words: Stem cells, Legal- Juridical.


Study of silicified ontogenetic series of opisthoparian (Aphelaspis), gonatoparian (Glaphyraspis), and proparian (Hardyoides) trilobites indicates the probable homology of cephalic spines in ptychopariid trilobites. Opisthoparia, gonatoparia, and proparia are redefined in terms of differential development of cephalic spines relative to a morphologically constant course of the posterior section of the facial suture. Five protaspid instars and a probable growth rate factor of 1.08 can be demonstrated for Aphelaspis.


Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women is often associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, with great financial impact on health system. Besides, the disease is characterized by the high rates of metastasis, which worsen significantly the prognosis. This process is associated with two regulatory molecules, microRNAs (miR), specially miR-17, and ROCK-1, which overexpression has been associated to tumor growth and metastasis. In contrast, melatonin has shown oncostatic and anti-metastatic properties by reducing the cell ability to migrate and invade the tissue, besides the inhibition of cell proliferation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of melatonin to modulate miR-17 and ROCK-1, a possible candidate gene to miR-17 target in metastatic breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231. To determine the effect of melatonin to modulate miR-17 and ROCK-1, MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with melatonin and anti-miR-17-5p. ROCK-1 and miR-17 gene expression were accessed by real time PCR and ROCK-1 protein expression verified by immunocytochemistry and western blotting. Migration and invasion assay was performed to verify the action of melatonin and anti-miR-17-5p to inhibit these processes. In the in vivo study, was developed pulmonary metastasis model followed for six weeks, the tumor induction was continued for 4 weeks, and treatment with anti-miR-17-5p inhibitor for two more weeks. At the end of treatment, animals were euthanized, the lungs removed and used for analysis of miR-17-5p and Let-7c (positive control) and ROCK-1 gene expression. ROCK-1 protein was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. MiR17-5p inhibition managed directly modulate gene and protein expression of ROCK-1 in MDA-MB-231 cells, as well, the gene expression of MYC. In additional, the migration and invasion were decreased after melatonin and anti-miR-17-5p treatment. To validate the findings of the study in vitro with miR-17, was used for lung metastasis model in athymic nude mice. According to our findings, normal animals without metastasis (negative control) had lower levels of miR-17 compared to animals with metastasis and without treatment (positive control). In contrast, animals with metastasis who received anti-miR17-5p treatment, interestingly also had low miR-17 levels compared to positive control animals. Furthermore, it was observed fewer metastases and a reduction in ROCK-1 protein expression in these treated animals compared to positive control animals. Our results demonstrated that miR-17-5p inhibition can modulate ROCK-1 gene and protein in MDA-MB-231 cells and decreasing the number of lung metastases in treated animals. Furthermore, melatonin can act as a synergic mechanism to decrease migration and invasion on metastasis processes mediated by ROCK-1. Citation Format: Borin TF, Pongeluppi RI, Gelaleti GB, Leonel C, Moschetta MG, Ferreira LC, Zuccari DAPdC. Modulatory action of melatonin and miR-17 on ROCK-1 in breast cancer metastasis model. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-03-02.


Lesioning of the nervous system can produce a form of pathological pain called "neuropathic pain" that is characterized by sensory deficit, burning sensation, hyperalgesia and allodynia (Cui et al., 2000). The mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain have been studied extensively. Abundant evidence has indicated that aside from the neural component, the non-neural cells of the CNS, such as glial cells, have important roles in the pathogenesis of pain (Coyle, 1998). To a certain extent, glial activation is triggered secondary to injury. Glial cells play an important role in the initiation, development and maintenance of persistent neuropathic pain. Both microglia and astrocytes are activated in the spinal cord after nerve injury, and pain is amplified when glia become activated (Mika, 2008). It has been hypothesized that neuropathic pain and morphine tolerance share some common pathological mechanisms (Mayer et al., 1999). Many studies have indicated that neuropathic pain leads to reduced morphine efficacy and the rapid development of morphine tolerance. The glia become activated in response to the repeated administration of morphine, which leads to the release of proinflammatory mediators and may oppose opioid analgesia by altering neuronal excitability (Campbell et al., 2006). It is not clear how opioids activate microglia in the spinal cord, but previous work by Hutchinson's team suggested the possible involvement of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) (Tanga et al., 2005). In this study, we tried to understand the role of microglia in morphine tolerance and also examine some possible methods for improving the efficacy of morphine to control neuropathic pain.


for finitary arithmetic. Indeed, number theory is not forthcoming at all, but rather a structure of numerals, denned with reference to the counting process. Woodger's suggestions do not go beyond those put forward by John Locke {An essay concerning human understanding, Book II, Ch. 16) nearly three hundred years ago. The overall conclusion which one must reach is that Woodger's logical works add nothing to logic or mathematics; whether they provide a stimulus for biological research is, to this reviewer, doubtful. This is saddening, for the difficulties of interdisciplinary communication, never mind cross-fertilization, are immense and notorious, and even Professor Woodger's dedication and wide learning could do little to bridge even one gap. EDWARD E. DAWSON


Martin Buber denied consistently that he was a theologian because he repudiated abstract discourse about God. However, he did affirm that intersubjective events in the world express theological truth, even if that truth cannot be possessed or professed thereafter as noetic content. In this paper I introduce a concept of "embodied theology" to elucidate this nuance in Buber's religious thought, and I show how his Ḥasidic writings shed unique light on these matters. Through hermeneutical investigations of his Ḥasidic tales vis-a-vis the original sources, I illuminate Buber's conviction that genuine sages convey theological meaning through the very spiritual-corporeal dynamics of their lives—or what Buber calls their "sacramental existence."


In this work we present a fully integrated first order continuous-time ΔΣ ADC made in a pentacene-based dual-gate organic thin-film transistor technology on flexible plastic foil. The ADC achieves a precision of 26.5 dB at a clock speed of 500 Hz and draws 100 μA from a 15 V power supply. As sub-blocks of the ADC, we also present a Vt -insensitive single-stage differential amplifier with 10 kHz GBW, a 3-stage operational amplifier, an integrator, a comparator and a level shifter. The circuits are designed following a strict Vt -insensitive design strategy and use high-pass filters for offset cancellation. The active area is 13 × 20 mm2.


Globally, the performance of Construction Contract Administration (CCA) is becoming of significant interest as the industry suffers from notable delays, cost overruns, and disputes as a consequence of poor contract administration practices. In Qatar, the pace of projects will continue after hosting the FIFA 2022 World Cup to achieve the 2030 Qatar National Vision and beyond, therefore, monitoring of the proper CCA implementation and performance is necessary. Due to the wide scope and complicated nature of CCA, there is yet no consensus on how to assess its performance. This study briefly presents a systematic, operational, and multi-dimensional construction Contract Administration Performance Framework (CAPF) consisting of 93 CCA key measures/ tasks categorized in 11 CCA dimensions/process groups. The proposed framework is validated by structural equation modeling and subsequently, the Contract Administration Performance Model (CAPM) model was established. Through this study, the CAPM and its components are briefly explained, and then implemented on a real-world sample of 13 small, medium, and major construction projects in Qatar covering both public and private sectors, and then the performance is benchmarked. It is found that the model provides an operational basis for measuring the CCA Group Performance Indices (GPI), the overall Construction Contract Administration Performance Index (CCAPI) and support the identification of underperforming groups. The benchmarking value for the CCAPI (77.5%) demonstrates that the level of CCA performance is good. Also, the benchmarking values of GPI (range 74.3% to 87.8%) are good, except risk management (GPI= 50.5%), which needs an improvement program.


Presidents: J. G. C. Anderson, M.A., D.Sc., F.R.S.E., F.G.S. T. Neville George, D.Sc., F.R.S.E., F.G.S. (from November 10th). First Meeting, 13th October, 1949.—Professor T. Neville George, Vice-President, intimated that Dr. Anderson, owing to his appointment to the Chair of Geology at University College, Cardiff, had expressed his intention of resigning from the Presidency. Mr. D. B. Graham, Mr. G. Kynaston and Mr. J. R. Shaw were elected members of the Society. Dr. B. C. King read a paper entitled "Structure and Plutonic Activity in Skye" (see "Structure and Igneous Activity in the Creag Strollamus Area of Skye," Trans. Roy. Soc. Edin., vol. lxii, part 3, 1953, pp. 357-402). Professor T. Nevllle George, Dr. G. W. Tyrrell, Mr. G. Scott Johnstone and Mr. L. E. Holloway contributed to the ensuing discussion. Second Meeting, 10th November, 1949.—In declaring the meeting open, Professor J. G. C. Anderson said it was two years since the Society had honoured him by electing him their President. According to the Constitution he had another year to serve, but, as members already knew, he had been appointed to the Chair of Geology at Cardiff. In the circumstances his only course was to place his resignation in the hands of the Council and make way for someone on the spot. He was very pleased that Professor George had been nominated. Professor Anderson then thanked Members of Council for their support and mentioned with appreciation the work done by the two Secretaries. Professor George was then elected President of the This 250-word extract was created in the absence of an abstract


According to Tinto's (1975) model of student attrition, the level of student success is influenced by how well students integrate and perform within the academic system. Many studies focused on community college transfer students have considered portions of Tinto's model from the perspective of the student but not of the faculty. This study focused on one portion of Tinto's model, the academic system and answered the following questions: 1) How do faculty at a four-year, public institution conceptualize the community college transfer students' academic preparedness; 2) to what degree, if any, does that conceptualization differ within the disciplines and 3) is there evidence that these perceptions are based on actual student outcomes in course performance? Using a mixed methodological approach, the study found faculty held specific perceptions about community college transfer students. Some of these perceptions, such as the idea that community college transfer students were not performing at the same level as students who started at the four-year institution, were not completely confirmed through outcomes assessment.


Though superannuation funds play an important role in any economy, little is known about their efficiency as the literature on production efficiency is mainly concerned with banks and insurance companies. This paper analyses the production efficiency of retail superannuation funds in Australia from 2005 to 2009. The estimates of production efficiency were obtained using Data Envelopment Analysis and thereafter regressed on contextual variables using the Tobit model. The study finds that fund characteristics, like size and proportion of funds invested in non-risk avenues, have significant positive association while diversification and financial crisis each have a significant negative association, with the production efficiency of retail superannuation funds in Australia. The findings are relevant to a government appointed major review of the superannuation industry tasked to examine, inter alia, the efficiency of superannuation funds. From the applied or practice perspective, the findings could help firms within the industry determine merger or acquisition targets.


Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is the most common autoimmune blistering skin disease, manifested by painful itching of the skin and mucous membranes. Despite high mortality, poor quality of life and increasing incidence in older people, BP can be overlooked due to its rarity in the general population. The cause of BP is unknown, but there are reports of drug-induced BP and remission after the withdrawal of suspected drugs. Systematic reviews have found prescription drugs such as gliptins and loop diuretics to be associated with BP. However, previous studies did consider multiple drug exposures and had selected populations. Our UK population-based study aimed to determine whether drugs/vaccines prescribed between 1998 and 2021 for common conditions in older people are associated with BP. We conducted a population-based nested case–control study using the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (representing 8% of the UK population). Each person with BP (case) was matched by age, sex and general practice to up to five controls at the diagnosis time of their case. Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to determine adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of developing BP within 1 year of taking at least one prescription for the following therapeutic groups: antibiotics, antidiabetics and insulin, antihypertensives, antithrombotics, lipid modifiers, analgesics, dementia drugs, antiepileptics, antipsychotics, antidepressants and influenza vaccine. Where possible, we report results for classes of drugs or subclasses. The results were adjusted for multiple exposures and corrected for multiple testing. We also explored potential confounders: ethnicity, deprivation, stroke, Parkinson disease and dementia. Six months of antibiotics prescriptions before the BP diagnosis was excluded to account for treating undiagnosed BP symptoms. We identified 16 844 patients with BP and 79 493 controls (mean age 76 years; 44% male). The drugs associated with an increased risk of BP were penicillinase-resistant penicillins [aOR 2.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.4–2.8]; macrolides (aOR 1.5, 95% CI 1.4–1.7); gliptins (aOR 2.8, 95% CI 2.4–3.3); centrally acting anticholinesterases (aOR 2.3, 95% CI 2.0–2.7); N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists (aOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.7–2.9); antiepileptics (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 2.3–2.6); influenza vaccine (aOR 1.4, 95% CI 1.4–1.5) and loop diuretics (aOR 1.3, 95% CI 1.2–1.4). Reduced BP risk was associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aOR 0.8, 95% CI 0.8–0.9) and opioids (aOR 0.8, 95% CI 0.8–0.9). Potential confounders did not affect odds ratio estimates. All P values were < 0.001. No association was found for broad-spectrum penicillins, lipid-modifying drugs, anticoagulants, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and potassium-sparing diuretics with another diuretic. Clinicians need to be aware of BP risk in older people following administration of penicillinase-resistant penicillins, gliptins, dementia and epilepsy drugs, in order to recognize BP early and consider withdrawal of the suspect drug.


This article presents an anlysis of wh-formation and focalization in Basque, framed within Chomsky's 'Barriers' system. In language like Basque and Hungarian, both foci and wh-words have to appear in a position immediately preceding the inflected verb. Rather than allowing, as a parametric option, such operators to move to a special pre-verbal FOCUS position, it is claimed that the correct parameter involved is the level of operator movement. In much the same way as wh-words may move to SPEC at LF (Chinese) or at S-structure (English, Basque), foci may also move at LF (English) or at S-structure (Basque). The fact that both types of operators have to precede the verb is interpreted as another instance of the well-known V2 (verb-secont) phenomenon, whereby inflected verbs move to the COMP position  when SPEC is occupied by an operator, as observed in English wh-formation. An extension of ths anlysis to the negative operator ez 'not' is also examined, attempting to explain inversion phenomena in negative clauses.


Without treatment, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients will inevitably develop colorectal cancer (CRC) during lifetime. Yet, surgical trauma is a high risk of desmoid tumor (DT), one of the main causes of death in FAP patients. So far, the timing for colectomy is primarily based on the clinician's experience and the patient's preference; most patients undergo surgery at mid-20's. In this study, we analyzed the germline mutation distribution in 35 FAP patients from different families, 16 of them diagnosed with DTs. We also investigated the association between the molecular alterations and the clinicopathological features. Capture-based targeted sequencing using a panel of 520 genes was performed on tumor tissue and paired normal mucosa or white blood cells from 18 FAP probands who were initially diagnosed with CRC. Of all 35 FAP patients, 30 (85.7%) of them harbored germline APC mutations scattered from codon 161 to 1578. The mutations in the 16 DT patients scattered from codon 457 to 1578. All three patients with the mutation at the 3' of 1444 codon were diagnosed with DT. The percentage of high-risk DT (stage III or IV) harboring mutations at the 5' of 1062 or 1062-1578 was 14.3% and 77.8%, respectively, and all three patients with 3' of 1399 codon mutation had high risk. In addition, by using public database, we compared 140 FAP patients with DT to all 1880 FAP patients on the Leiden Open Variation Database and found that the odd ratio of DT in codon 159 to 495 was 0.34, while in codon 1310 to 2011 was 2.36. Compared to sporadic CRCs, the somatic spectrum of FAP CRCs was similar to the early onset CRCs, with higher TP53 (94.1%) and lower somatic APC mutations (65.7%), but the KRAS mutation rate was the highest (58.5%). One of the 18 FAP CRCs was identified as microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H), with tumor mutation burden (TMB) of 115.65 mut/Mb. Given that no TP53 mutations were detected in the low- and high-grade adenomas, ctDNA TP53 sequencing might be used for the close monitoring before FAP colectomy. In conclusion, except mutations at the 5' end of APC (5' to 495), all FAP patients need to consider the risk of DT after colectomy. The chance of life-threating DTs was higher in patients with 3' 1062 codon mutation and peaked in patients with 3' 1399 codon mutation. Scheduled monitoring of TP53 ctDNA is proposed to be a novel tool for optimizing the operation time.


At the outset of Corona virus decease, it has created global health crisis and had a deep impact on day
to day lives. Corona virus causes illness to both animals and humans. People suffering from this decease will
face respiratory illness problem. The symptoms of corona decease include dry cough, respiratory problems and
fever. Correlation analysis is widely used in medical industry to predict the cause of decease with the other
health problems. The analytics on correlation is essential to observe the nature of inter dependency among the
tied deceases. In order to identify the impact of this decease, the mutual relationship between the symptoms is
evaluated using correlation analysis. Though safety measures put in place to stop spreading corona but still there
are failures in adopting sustainable preventive mechanisms. The casual relationship between the symptoms is to
be identified to diagnose the decease and the level of illness. In this paper, the correlation dependency between
cold, flu, pneumonia and corona virus are analyzed using Pearson, Kendall's Tau and Spearman analysis. The
baseline performance of the particular decease is cross verified with the results obtained from intuitions drawn
from web to analyze the harness of the problem.


Knowledge tracing and dropout prediction are crucial for online education to estimate students' knowledge states or to prevent dropout rates. While traditional systems interacting with students suffered from data sparsity and overfitting, recent sample-level contrastive learning helps to alleviate this issue. One major limitation of sample-level approaches is that they regard students' behavior interaction sequences as a bundle, so they often fail to encode temporal contexts and track their dynamic changes, making it hard to find optimal representations for knowledge tracing and dropout prediction. To apply temporal context within the sequence, this study introduces a novel student modeling framework, SAICL: \textbf{s}tudent modeling with \textbf{a}uxiliary \textbf{i}nteraction-level \textbf{c}ontrastive \textbf{l}earning. In detail, SAICL can utilize both proposed self-supervised/supervised interaction-level contrastive objectives: MilCPC (\textbf{M}ulti-\textbf{I}nteraction-\textbf{L}evel \textbf{C}ontrastive \textbf{P}redictive \textbf{C}oding) and SupCPC (\textbf{Sup}ervised \textbf{C}ontrastive \textbf{P}redictive \textbf{C}oding). While previous sample-level contrastive methods for student modeling are highly dependent on data augmentation methods, the SAICL is free of data augmentation while showing better performance in both self-supervised and supervised settings. By combining cross-entropy with contrastive objectives, the proposed SAICL achieved comparable knowledge tracing and dropout prediction performance with other state-of-art models without compromising inference costs.


Mother-to-child transmission of viruses and bacteria increases the risk of miscarriage and various diseases in children. Such transmissions can result in infections and diseases in infants or the induction of an inflammatory immune response through the placenta. Recently, we developed a silicon (Si)-based hydrogen-producing nanoagent (Si-based agent) that continuously and effectively produces hydrogen in the body. Since medical hydrogen has antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, and antiapoptotic effects, we investigated the effects of our Si-based agent on mother-to-child transmission, with a focus on the rate of miscarriage. In pregnant mice fed a diet containing the Si-based agent, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced miscarriage due to mother-to-child transmission was reduced and inflammation and neutrophil infiltration in the placenta were suppressed. We also found that the Si-based agent suppressed IL-6 expression in the placenta and induced the expression of antioxidant and antiapoptotic genes, such as Hmox1 and Ptgs2. The observed anti-inflammatory effects of the Si-based agent suggest that it may be an effective preventative or therapeutic drug for miscarriage or threatened miscarriage during pregnancy by suppressing maternal inflammation caused by bacterial and viral infections.


In the present study efficacy of aqueous extracts of rhizome, stem and leaves of Zingiber officinale were studied on germination, growth and yield parameters of Vigna radiata. Seed germination and its associated parameters like vigour index, tolerance index, root and shoot length, fresh and dry weight were found to be decreased considerably as the concentration of stem and leaves extracts increased, when compared to control. Where as in rhizome extract the maximum values were observed in 10% concentration for all parameters when compared to control. On the converse the phytotoxicity was found to be increased in stem and leaves extracts as the concentration increased when compared to control. All the measured yield parameters like height of the plant, number of leaves per plant, number of branches per pant, number of pods per plant and number of seeds per pod were found to be decreased as the concentration of leaves and stem extracts increased when compared to control. On the other hand in rhizome extract the maximum values were observed in 10% concentration when compare to control and all other concentrations. In all the above parameters were studied the maximum and minimum values were recorded in control and 50% concentrations in stem and leaves extracts whereas in rhizome extract maximum and minimum values were recorded in 10% and 50% concentrations respectively.


Philip William Hutton, one of the oldest and longest subscribed members of the BMA (since 1934), made a significant contribution to the development of medical services and medical education in Uganda. He also pioneered NHS geriatric services in Britain in the1960s. In his long life he witnessed the last years of the British Empire, the founding of the NHS, and huge developments in medicine both in Britain and overseas.

He was born in Nainital, British India, where his father, Charles Herbert Hutton, was an irrigation engineer in United Province (Uttar Pradesh). For the duration of the first world war his family lived in Kashmir, where in spring and summer they lived in a houseboat on the Dal Lake. After the war they came to England, where he was educated at Haileybury …


Evidence is presented supporting the view that serious illness is often interpreted by men as an opportunity for emotional expressivity, contrasting with language and gender ideologies that stress men's deficiencies in this realm. Comparative analysis of a large matched corpus of male and female interviews concerning the experience of a wide range of illnesses is reported. Illness experience prompts a process of biographical disruption for men resulting in a highly varied verbal repertoire. The analysis focuses on the use of adjectives, showing that, when compared with women discussing similar experiences, some men express high levels of frustration, rely on conventional strategies for expressing emotion such as swearing and a problem-solving attitude towards health - while others use a more self-conscious 'women's language' of feelings that enables them to construct new identities. Such men associate this with the capacity for new and, paradoxically, more powerful performances of masculine identity.


This study determined whether prior habituation to water immersion would ameliorate age-related deficits in learning and memory in a swim task. Aged (22 months) and young adult (3 months) rats were immersed in water (30 degrees C) for 15 min on each of 28 consecutive days before training in the swim task. Additional groups of age-matched animals served as handled controls. Training on a spatial discrimination version of the water task was conducted over 5 days with two trials per day (1-h intertrial interval). A probe trial was substituted for the last trial on the fifth day to assess the rats' use of spatial information. Three days later, rats received cue discrimination training to find a visible platform. In the spatial task, prior habituation to water immersion ameliorated deficits in acquisition within each day (i.e., at a 1-h intertrial interval) but not across days (at 24 h). The results obtained with the 24-h interval confirm the rapid forgetting characteristic of aged rats in many tasks. The stress-habituation procedures reduced age-related deficits seen on the probe trial and on cue discrimination training. These findings indicate that several aspects of age-related impairments in the swim task, often attributed to primary age-related deficits in learning and memory processes per se, may instead be secondary to age-related differences in stress responses to water immersion.


We use survey data on cohorts of high school graduates observed before and after the Italian reform of tertiary education implementing the 'Bologna process' to estimate the impact of the reform on the decision to go to college. We find that individuals leaving high school after the reform have a probability of going to college that is 10 percent higher compared to individuals making the choice under the old system. We show that this increase is concentrated among individuals with good high-school performance and low parental (educational) background. We interpret this result as an indication of the existence of constraints (pre-reform) -- for good students from less affluent household -- on the optimal schooling decision. For the students who would not have enrolled under the old system we also find a small negative impact of the reform on the likelihood to drop-out from university.


Intelligent systems require common sense, but automatically extracting this knowledge from text can be difficult. We propose and assess methods for extracting one type of commonsense knowledge, object-property comparisons, from pre-trained embeddings. In experiments, we show that our approach exceeds the accuracy of previous work but requires substantially less hand-annotated knowledge. Further, we show that an active learning approach that synthesizes common-sense queries can boost accuracy.


To evaluate the effect of exercise training on serum leptin levels 50 sedentary subjects with type 2 diabetes were enrolled in either 6 weeks of aerobic exercise training with diet therapy (n = 23) or diet therapy alone (n = 27). The training program consisted of walking and cycle ergometer exercise for 1 hour at least 5 times per week, with the intensity of exercise maintained at 50% of maximum oxygen uptake. Serum leptin levels decreased significantly in the exercise training (TR) group (7.2 +/- 3.6 to 4.6 +/- 2.5 ng/mL, P <.05), but not in the sedentary (SED) group (6.9 +/- 3.4 to 5.6 +/- 2.9 ng/mL). Leptin levels standardized for percentage body fat (dividing serum leptin level by percentage body fat) after treatment were lower in the TR subjects compared with the SED subjects. Body weight and percentage body fat decreased in all patients; however, no significant changes were observed in either group. Fasting concentrations of plasma insulin and cortisol and the urinary excretion of 17-hydroxycorticosteroid (17-OHCS) did not differ between the groups either before or after treatment. Fasting plasma glucose and hemoglobin A(1c) (HbA(1c)) improved significantly in both groups, although no significant differences were observed between the groups either before or after treatment. Ventilatory threshold increased significantly in the exercise training subjects. This study demonstrates that exercise training in type 2 diabetic subjects reduces serum leptin levels independent of changes in body fat mass, insulin, or glucocorticoids.


In a previous work, we showed and compared the wound healing properties of aFGF and bFGF topically administered on totally de-epithelialized rabbit corneas. Pharmacokinetic and autoradiographic studies were then performed to investigate the sites of accumulation of bFGF in ocular structures, both on de-epithelialized and intact rabbit eyes. After one single instillation of 125I-bFGF, all the ocular structures were dissected and the measurement of the radioactivity allowed to establish kinetic curves. The results showed a very important and early fixation of bFGF on denuded cornea (10 minutes) and a posterior distribution of the drug between 10 and 30 minutes. A second accumulation of bFGF in the anterior segment appeared 8 hours after application and then decreased till the 48th hour. These findings were confirmed by the macroautoradiographies and the microautoradiographies pointed out the fixation of bFGF not only at the location of the Bowman membrane, but also on the corneal endothelium. These experiments also demonstrated the systemic diffusion of bFGF into the untreated controlateral eye. The integrity of bFGF in the cornea and other structures was then confirmed by SDS PAGE followed by autoradiography. In the intact eye, bFGF was shown to penetrate in extremely low amounts, illustrating the major role of the corneal barrier. For a therapeutic use bFGF may be recommended as an efficient wound healing agent for epithelial but also endothelial defects. Its eventual unwanted side effects must be kept in mind to perfect an efficient low dose and short term clinical treatment.


Despite its technological benefits, the Internet of Things (IoT) has cyber weaknesses due to vulnerabilities in the wireless medium. Machine Larning (ML)-based methods are widely used against cyber threats in IoT networks with promising performance. An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is prominent for cybercriminals to compromise networks, and it is crucial to long-term and harmful characteristics. However, it is difficult to apply ML-based approaches to identify APT attacks to obtain a promising detection performance due to an extremely small percentage among normal traffic. There are limited surveys that fully investigate APT attacks in IoT networks due to the lack of public datasets with all types of APT attacks. It is worth bridging the state of the art in network attack detection with APT attack detection in a comprehensive review article. This survey article reviews the security challenges in IoT networks and presents well-known attacks, APT attacks, and threat models in IoT systems. Meanwhile, signature-based, anomaly-based, and hybrid intrusion detection systems are summarized for IoT networks. The article highlights statistical insights regarding frequently applied ML-based methods against network intrusion. Finally, open issues and challenges for common network intrusion and APT attacks are presented for future research.


The Ricci flow equation of a conformally flat Riemannian metric on a closed 2–dimensional configuration space is analysed. It turns out to be equivalent to the classical Hamilton–Jacobi equation for a point particle subject to a potential function that is proportional to the Ricci scalar curvature of configuration space. This allows one to obtain Schrodinger quantum mechanics from Perelman's action functional: the quantum–mechanical wavefunction is the exponential of i times the conformal factor of the metric on configuration space. We explore links with the recently discussed emergent quantum mechanics.


Granuloma eosinophilicum faciale (GF) is a rare chronic inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology. Although the condition is benign, its treatment is often unsatisfactory. We describe a case of a 60-year-old man with GF resistant to therapy with topical corticosteroids and liquid nitrogen. After 4 months of treatment with topical tacrolimus the lesions resolved, with remission lasting for 2 years.


The current Semantic Web ontology language has been designed to be both expressive for specifying complex concepts and decidable for automated reasoning. In recent years, the Semantic Web Rules Language has been proposed to add more expressiveness to the family of ontology languages. However the inclusion of rules has created new challenges of not only verifying the consistency of an ontology, but also checking for anomalies of a set of rules by itself. Currently automated tool support for reasoning about ontologies with rules is relatively limited compared to those for standard ontology reasoning. This paper addresses these challenges by defining notions of rule anomalies and proposing a method of discovering such anomalies by using the constraint logic programming technique and the state-of-the-art Semantic Web reasoners.


In places like the Valencian Region, where the climate is arid, the flow rate of the rivers is irregular, and irrigation is essential if agrarian returns are to increase, the way water was distributed among irrigators often gave rise to clashes between them. This paper begins with an analysis of the mechanisms that were used in the irrigated areas of Valencia, during the feudal era, to prevent these kinds of conflicts from getting out of hand. It then focuses on the disputes that arose between farmers and millers. Contrary to what is usually claimed, there is no decisive evidence to show that the millers were a permanent cause of such troubles, which only reached a dangerous level of intensity in certain places at certain times


This bulletin summarizes surficial geology knowledge and data produced by the Geo-mappingfor Energy and Minerals (GEM) program in the last decade and provides an updated understanding of the nature, distribution, and history of surficial deposits in various
glacial terrain types of Canada's North. The advancement in various aspects of surficial geology and the evolution of certain concepts and methods form the subject of the papers that make up this bulletin. Specifically, the papers discuss the status of surficial geology mapping in northern Canada
and the development of standards to facilitate map release; highlights from selected GEM surficial geochemical and indicator mineral surveys and the establishment of protocols for drift prospecting; and the revised glacial histories and surficial geology in various regions, from the Mackenzie
Mountains to the Labrador coast. This introductory paper to Bulletin 611 describes the scope of the publication and provides a summary of major surficial geology contributions to the GEM program in northern Canada. Remaining knowledge gaps and outstanding issues suggest ideas for future research
topics and regions of interest that could inform decisions on mineral exploration and land-use management.


Background/Aims: The study of acute kidney injury (AKI) has expanded with the increasing availability of electronic health records and the use of standardized definitions. Understanding the impact of AKI between settings is limited by heterogeneity in the selection of reference creatinine to anchor the definition of AKI. In this mini-review, we discuss different approaches used to select reference creatinine and their relative merits and limitations. Methods: We reviewed the literature to obtain representative examples of published baseline creatinine definitions when pre-hospital data were not available, as well as literature evaluating the estimation of baseline renal function, using PubMed and reference back-tracing within known works. Results: (1) Pre-hospital creatinine values are useful in determining reference creatinine, and in high-risk populations, the mean outpatient serum creatinine value 7-365 days before hospitalization closely approximates nephrology adjudication, (2) in patients without pre-hospital data, the eGFR 75 approach does not reliably estimate true AKI incidence in most at-risk populations, (3) using the lowest inpatient serum creatinine may be reasonable, especially in those with preserved kidney function, but may generously estimate AKI incidence and severity and miss community-acquired AKI that does not fully resolve, (4) using more specific definitions of AKI (e.g., KIDGO stages 2 and 3) may help to reduce the effects of misclassification when using surrogate values and (5) leveraging available clinical data may help refine the estimate of reference creatinine. Conclusions: Choosing reference creatinine for AKI calculation is important for AKI classification and study interpretation. We recommend obtaining data on pre-hospital kidney function, wherever possible. In studies where surrogate estimates are used, transparency in how they are applied and discussion that informs the reader of potential biases should be provided. Further work to refine the estimation of reference creatinine is needed.


Jazz harmony relies heavily on a set of well-defined harmonic patterns that evolved gradually throughout the 20th century. While certain tonally-oriented progressions such as the "ii-V-I" appear to be nearly ubiquitous across timeperiods, the jazz tradition also includes a notable departure from tonal harmony: the rise of modal jazz in the late 1950s. We aimed to systematically investigate the history of jazz composition by describing the evolution of chordal syntax, as well as the sort of organizational frameworks that might be described as harmonic schemata. In this study, we empirically describe the most common chords and chord motions of the jazz canon, and trace their evolution over time. Additionally, we describe an attempt to account for one particularly well-known compositional schema: the so-called "rhythm changes." In so doing, we make use of a recently compiled database of harmonic progressions for more than 1,160 jazz standards, encoded into the Humdrum "kern" format (Huron 1995). The present study provides details of corpus validation, and presents an initial descriptive characterization of the data set. Furthermore, we present evidence consistent with the hypothesis that chord sequences using tonal harmonic syntax became progressively less common from 1925 to 1970. Finally, we characterize the decline in popularity of one harmonic schema: the so-called "rhythm changes."


This paper is concerned with the recursive filter analysis and synthesis problem for a class of nonlinear systems with randomly occurring false data injection attacks. A novel randomly occurring attack model is established by using a Bernoulli binary distributed white sequence with the given probability. The aim of the addressed filtering problem is to design a recursive filter such that, there exists an upper bound for the filtering error covariance in the presence of nonlinearities and randomly occurring false data injection attacks. Moreover, such an upper bound is minimized at each sampling instant. By solving two Riccati-like difference equations, the filter gain is calculated recursively. Furthermore, a sufficient condition is derived to guarantee the stochastic boundedness of the filtering error. Finally, a numerical example is presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed filtering scheme.


In one analytical procedure, semiquantitative information concerning the concentrations of triglycerides, free and esterified cholesterol were obtained. Twenty-five microlitres of serum were used and the concentrations were classified as high, borderline or normal compared to a lipid standard solution. Thirty-four patients were investigated and the results showed good agreement with the results from conventional screening for hyperlipidemia by separate quantitative analyses of total cholesterol and triglycerides.


This paper presents an analysis of the effect of fiscal policy in Indonesia based on a VAR approach. Fiscal policy shocks are identified as a structural residuals related to unexpected government expenditures and tax revenues. Impulse responses are then used to simulate the dynamic response of key macroeconomics variables of shocks. The analysis shows that GDP responses negatively to tax shocks, and positively to expenditure shock. Moreover, disposable income and private consumptionreact negatively to taxation and positively to government expenditures. Altogether the results are consistent with that of Keynesian models.


Sharp foreign bodies in the oesophagus may present as an entirely asymptomatic child with only radiological evidence but require emergent surgical management. Safety pins, razor blades and needles are a few of the commonly ingested sharp objects in developing countries. The open safety pin is a particularly interesting clinical problem, as the management depends on its location and orientation. Many methods and instruments have been used over the years to remove them from the upper digestive tract. We present a novel method using the rigid paediatric bronchoscope and alligator forceps for the extraction of this unusual foreign body from the oesophagus of a 6 year old girl.


Continuous spike‐waves during slow‐wave sleep (CSWS) and Landau‐Kleffner syndrome (LKS) are two clinical epileptic syndromes that are associated with the electroencephalography (EEG) pattern of electrical status epilepticus during slow wave sleep (ESES). Autistic regression occurs in approximately 30% of children with autism and is associated with an epileptiform EEG in approximately 20%. The behavioral phenotypes of CSWS, LKS, and autistic regression overlap. However, the differences in age of regression, degree and type of regression, and frequency of epilepsy and EEG abnormalities suggest that these are distinct phenotypes. CSWS with autistic regression is rare, as is autistic regression associated with ESES. The pathophysiology and as such the treatment implications for children with CSWS and autistic regression are distinct from those with autistic regression without CSWS.


over Honduras northeast toward Cuba, this scientific visualization was created in 1999 using infrared and visible cloud data from the NOAA Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites.


We report the experimental results on measuring the isotope shifts and hyperfine splittings of all ytterbium isotopes for a 399-nm transition by using a quite simple and novel method. It benefits from the advantages of the modulation transfer spectroscopy in an ytterbium hollow cathode lamp and the Doppler-free spectroscopy in a collimated ytterbium atomic beam. The key technique in this experiment is simultaneously measuring the frequency separations of the two spectra twice, and the separation difference between two measurements is solely determined by the well-defined frequency of an acousto-optics modulator. Compared with the most of previously reported experimental results, ours are more accurate and completed, which will provide the useful information for developing a more accurate theoretical model to describe the interaction inside an ytterbium atom.


An experimental campaign that studied the effectiveness of seismic retrofitting of existing structures was simulated and analyzed in DIANA finite element analysis (FEA) software. The retrofitting method that was studied is the conversion of selected bays into new infilled RC walls for the retrofitting of a multi-storey multibay RC frame building. The building was tested at the ELSA facility of the Joint Research Centre (JRC) in Ispra (Italy). It was a full-scale four-storey model tested with the pseudo-dynamic (PsD) method. The frames were designed and detailed for gravity loads only using different connection details between the walls and the bounding frame. The purpose of the experiments was the study of the effectiveness of the proposed retrofitting method, including the design of new infill walls and the contribution of dowels that connect the new infill wall to the existing RC frame. In DIANA FEA, 2D frames were modeled and nonlinear transient analyses were performed in order to simulate the experimental results. In this paper, the finite element models of the test specimen are described and presented along with a comparison of the numerical results to the experimental ones. The capabilities of the finite element models that simulated the experimental nonlinear cyclic behavior of the tested RC building are illustrated. Finally, conclusions are drawn regarding the effectiveness of the numerical models to capture the behavior of the proposed structural system.


A new and simple path loss model for the up/down links in LEO satellite communication systems is provided in the paper. It is different with traditional path loss models for urban peer-to-peer links in terrestrial. This model is considering dynamic topologies, handoffs, earth-satellite distance, operation frequency and other LEO satellite's parameters. On the one hand, we establish its theoretical model based on LEO constellation coverage theory and then analyze the numerical results that path loss changes with the parameters of LEO satellite constellation in details. On the other hand, an simulation system of Iridium communication on OPNET platform is presented. A large number of simulation results are conformed to the numerical results. They both demonstrate the validity and reliability of the path loss model in this paper. It is very useful for LEO satellite link design.


Medicines can be considered the most widely used medical expenditures in hospitals. To reduce the medicines expenses in the hospital, the term of inventory control is applied. Medicines must be controlled by considering the expiry dates and the probabilistic demand from the customers. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an inventory model that can be suitable to control medicines by minimizing the expired medicines, total inventory costs, and dealing with unpredictable demand. The purpose of this research is to develop an inventory model for determining optimum replenishment time and order quantities and space requirements for multi-item medicines with consideration of expiry dates of the medicines and all medicines are being purchased in a single purchase order so that the total inventory costs in hospitals can be minimized. The result is that the proposed inventory model results in optimum space requirements and the lowest inventory costs. Therefore, hospitals must order medicines based on the optimum order quantity.


Electromagnetic coupling between a coaxial line and a stripline is studied using the generalised version of Bethe's aperture coupling theory. The equivalent electric and magnetic dipole moments accounting for the coupling of one line with the other through the aperture are determined using a novel but simple and physically illuminating application of the image theory. The analytical expression obtained for the angle between the aperture coupled coaxial line and stripline for optimum directivity is verified using a specially designed mechanical housing, which facilitates the reproducible rotation of the stripline on the coaxial line. Using a coaxial line of characteristic impedance 60 ? and stripline of 50 ?, the design value of the coupling 60 dB is shown to be achieved experimentally at a frequency of 2.45 GHz with the main line power ranging from 3 to 300 W. This quasi-TEM-mode analysis gives results which agree with the experimental values very closely.


In the present work dispersion strengthened (DS) commercial pure aluminium (cryomilled) has been studied into further detail with respect to deformation behaviour. During uniaxial tensile straining both deformation temperature and initial applied strain rate have been varied. The present work applied DS aluminium as rolled sheets. A thorough investigation is carried out with respect to grain structure and deformation structure of the cold worked material. The uniaxial tensile straining experiments revealed that the rolled sheet exhibit properties that are usual for this kind of processed material, i.e. good elevated temperature properties. Additionally, the rolled sheet achieved very good ductility for specific test parameters. While dislocation slip was identified as the most important deformation mechanism in the lower temperature regime, in the higher temperature regime the material exhibits a combination between grain boundary sliding and dislocation slip deformation mechanism. For the rolled sheet material, there were indications of dynamic grain growth or grain boundary migration for the specimens exhibiting the highest fracture strains. The latter aspect showed to be dependent on applied strain rate variations and the preprocessing procedure of the material.


Twenty young asymptomatic diabetic patients were evaluated for left ventricular dysfunction by determining the radionuclide ejection fraction response to supine bicycle ergometry. The double product at peak exercise (28,743 +/- 3,314 vs 29,007 +/- 3,625, p greater than .05) was not significantly different between the two groups. Seven of 20 diabetics had either no change or a drop in their ejection fraction during exercise while 1 of 20 control subjects had no change in ejection fraction. There was no correlation between the FBS (r = .26) and HbA1c (r = .32) and ejection fraction change during exercise, although those diabetics with LV dysfunction tended to have a higher HbA1c level as compared to diabetics with a normal response (16.8 +/- 3.1 percent vs 12.5 +/- 3.8 percent respectively, p greater than .05). The LV systolic dysfunction in young asymptomatic diabetic subjects does not appear to correlate with the degree of acute or chronic hyperglycemia, and therefore, is not a direct function of the dynamic metabolic state of diabetes.


The purpose of this study was to determine frequency of occurrence of halotolerant and halophilic histamine-forming bacteria under laboratory conditions in salted herring stored at 20 degrees C for 2 months. The other aim was to isolate these bacteria both from herring bought in a retail shop and examine the ability of decarboxylation of histidine by these microorganisms using Karnop's method modified by the authors. The amount of histamine formed was determined by fluorometric method. The level of histamine in media containing homogenates of herring was in a range from 5 to 1950 micrograms/100 ml of a nutrient medium. All isolated bacteria belong to halotolerant and halophilic strains and produce histamine both at 8% and 20% content of NaCl in a nutrient medium. The obtained results indicate that during storage of salted herring at ambient temperature the increase of histamine content in their flesh can occur.


During ArcticNet surveys aboard 'CCGS Amundsen' in 2011, several subtidal stations located in Canadian Archipelago were sampled in order to study the composition of their benthic communities. Among the abundant material sampled, several specimens of rare polychaete species were found. Examination of this material showed four species not previously recorded in the area, and a new species described herein. Descriptions of these specimens are given in this work. Ophelina brattegardi Kongsrud et al., 2011 is characterized by a body composed of 27–28 chaetigers, by having the parapodia of the last four chaetigers shifted to the ventral side of the body, and by lacking branchiae in mid-body chaetigers. Macrochaeta polyonix Eliason, 1962 is unique within the genus in having several (instead of one or two) compound neurochaetae in anterior parapodia. Chaetozone acuta Banse & Hobson, 1968 is characterized by having spines from anterior third of the body and arranged in bundles composed of just a few chaetae. Chaetozone jubata Chambers & Woodham, 2003 can be distinguished from similar species by having very long capillary chaetae from chaetiger 2 or 3. Finally, Dialychone hervyae n. sp. is characterized by bearing four pairs of radioles with narrow flanges, by the bilobed tip of its first peristomial ring that projects beyond the collar, and by the paleate thoracic notochaetae bearing long mucros.


The dynamics of in-cylinder flow field,the air-fuel ratio distribution were simulated by commercial CFD software FIRE for the airflow matching the fuel spray characteristics by different rail pressures and boost pressures.The air-fuel mixture formation of the diesel engine was studied by simulation,and the simulation effects of the obtained mixture formation behavior on the combustion and exhaust emissions were compared with experimental results.The results showed that the ignition delay,the premixed combustion proportion and the diffusion combustion process can be controlled by optimal matching between the airflow characteristics in the reentrant combustion chamber and the fuel injection pressure,thus to control the high temperature combustion duration.The optimization can effectively reduce the NOx and soot emissions simultaneously without it penalty on fuel economy.


Abstract. There is interest in deploying digital micromirror devices (DMDs) in space for use in multi-object spectrometers, but the devices must first be qualified for space deployment. An environmental test campaign has been carried out on eXtended Graphics Array (XGA) DMDs to qualify the devices for space deployment. The campaign has included mechanical shock and vibration, low temperature, proton radiation, and heavy ion radiation testing. XGA DMDs have passed each test at a level suitable for space deployment. Our paper reports on gamma radiation testing of XGA DMDs, the final portion of the environmental test campaign. Gamma radiation causes total ionizing dose (TID). A total of 19 DMDs were irradiated to TIDs between 16 and 45 krad(Si) while biased and 24 and 76 krad(Si) while unbiased. The effects of TID on DMDs are similar to other electrostatically operated micro-electrical mechanical systems, and all irradiated DMDs were fully recovered by annealing. In addition to testing, radiation modeling of the space environment was performed to determine the expected TID for various space mission scenarios. DMDs have minimal susceptibility to TID effects, and the effects do not significantly compromise the use of the devices for space missions in orbit at L2 or low Earth orbit.


Abstract. Monitoring and modeling aerosol particle lifecycle in Southeast Asia (SEA) is challenged by high cloud cover, complex meteorology, and the wide range of aerosol species, sources, and transformations found throughout the region. Satellite observations are limited, and there are few in situ observations of aerosol extinction profiles, aerosol properties, and environmental conditions. Therefore, accurate aerosol model outputs are crucial for the region. This work evaluates the Navy Aerosol Analysis and Prediction System Reanalysis (NAAPS-RA) aerosol optical thickness (AOT) and light extinction products using airborne aerosol and meteorological measurements from the Cloud, Aerosol, and Monsoon Processes Philippines Experiment (CAMP2Ex) in SEA. Modeled AOTs and extinction coefficients were compared to those retrieved with a High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL-2). Correlations were highest for AOT in the mixed layer (AOTML; R2 = 0.83, bias = 0.00, root mean square error [RMSE] = 0.03) compared to total AOT (R2 = 0.68, bias = 0.01, RMSE = 0.14), although the correlations between the observations and 1° × 1° degree NAAPS-RA outputs were weaker in regions with strong gradients in aerosol properties, such as near areas of active convection. Correlations between simulated and retrieved aerosol extinction coefficients were highest from 145–500 m (R2 = 0.75, bias = 0.01 km−1, RMSE = 0.08 km−1) and decreased with increasing altitude (R2 = 0.69 and 0.26, bias = 0.00 and 0.00 km−1, RMSE = 0.09 and 0.00 km−1 for 500–1500 m and > 1500 m, respectively), which was likely a result of the use of bulk cloud mixing parameterizations. We also investigated the role of possible relative humidity (RH) errors in extinction simulations. Despite negative biases in modeled RH (−4.9, −7.7, and −2.3 % for altitudes < 500 m, 500–1500 m, and > 1500 m, respectively), AOT and extinction agreement with the HSRL-2 did not change significantly at any altitude when RHs from dropsondes were substituted into the model. Improvements may have been stunted due to errors in how NAAPS-RA modeled physics of particle hygroscopic growth, dry particle mass concentrations, and/or dry mass extinction efficiencies, especially when combined with AOT corrections from data assimilation. Specifically, the model overestimated the hygroscopicity of (i) smoke particles from biomass burning in the Maritime Continent (MC), and (ii) anthropogenic emissions transported from East Asia. This work provides insight into how certain environmental and microphysical properties influence AOT and extinction simulations, which can then be interpreted in the context of modeling global concentrations of particle mass and cloud condensation nuclei (CCN).


Objectives: To evaluate the effect of a group-based functional and specific balance training programme that included dual-task exercises on balance function in healthy older adults. Design: A single-blind randomized controlled trial. Setting: General community. Participants: Sixty-six community-dwelling older adults (age 77.0 ± 6.5 years), without functional balance impairment were recruited and allocated at random to an intervention group (n = 33) or a reference group (n = 33). Intervention: The intervention group received 24 training sessions over three months that included perturbation as well as dual-task exercises. The reference group received no intervention. Outcome measures: The voluntary step execution times during single- and dual-task conditions, stabilogram-diffusion analysis in upright standing, and self-reported physical function; all were measured assessed at baseline and at the end of intervention. The intervention group was retested after six months. Results: Compared with the reference group, participation in group-based functional and specific balance training led to faster voluntary step execution times under single-task (P = 0.02; effect size (ES) = 0.34) and dual-task (P = 0.036; ES = 0.55) conditions; lower transition displacement and shorter transition time of the stabilogram-diffusion analysis under eyes-closed conditions (P = 0.007, ES = 0.30 and P = 0.08, ES = 0.44, respectively); and improved self-reported lower extremity function (P = 0.006, ES = 0.37). Effects were lost at six-month follow-up. Conclusions: Functional and specific balance training can improve voluntary stepping and balance control in healthy older non-fallers, parameters previously found to be related to increased risk of falls and injury in older adults.


The impact of continually evolving digital technologies and the proliferation of communications and content has now been widely acknowledged to be central to understanding our world. What is less acknowledged is that this is based on the successful arousing of curiosity both at the collective and individual levels. Advertisers, communication professionals and news editors are in constant competition to capture attention of the digital population perennially shifty and distracted. This paper, tries to understand how curiosity works in the digital world by attempting the first ever work done on quantifying human curiosity, basing itself on various theories drawn from humanities and social sciences. Curious communication pushes people to spot, read and click the message from their social feed or any other form of online presentation. Our approach focuses on measuring the strength of the stimulus to generate reader curiosity by using unsupervised and supervised machine learning algorithms, but is also informed by philosophical, psychological, neural and cognitive studies on this topic. Manually annotated news headlines - clickbaits - have been selected for the study, which are known to have drawn huge reader response. A binary classifier was developed based on human curiosity (unlike the work done so far using words and other linguistic features). Our classifier shows an accuracy of 97% . This work is part of the research in computational humanities on digital politics quantifying the emotions of curiosity and outrage on digital media.


An analysis of flows in converging–diverging channels has been carried out with the primary goal of identifying geometries which result in increased mixing. The model geometry consists of a channel whose walls are fitted with spanwise grooves of moderate amplitudes (up to 10 % of the mean channel opening) and of sinusoidal shape. The groove systems on each wall are shifted by half of a wavelength with respect to each other, resulting in the formation of a converging–diverging conduit. The analysis is carried out up to Reynolds numbers resulting in the formation of secondary states. The first part of the analysis is based on a two-dimensional model and demonstrates that increasing the corrugation wavelength results in the appearance of an unsteady separation whose onset correlates with the onset of the travelling wave instability. The second part of the analysis is based on a three-dimensional model and demonstrates that the flow dynamics is dominated by the centrifugal instability over a large range of geometric parameters, resulting in the formation of streamwise vortices. It is shown that the onset of the vortices may lead to the elimination of the unsteady separation. The critical Reynolds number for the vortex onset initially decreases as the corrugation amplitude increases but an excessive increase leads to the stream lift up, reduction of the centrifugal forces and flow stabilization. The flow dynamics under such conditions is again dominated by the travelling wave instability. Conditions leading to the formation of streamwise vortices without interference from the travelling wave instability have been identified. The structure and the mixing properties of the saturated states are discussed.


A two-engine, three-fan V/STOL airplane was designed to fulfill naval operational missions. Use of interconnected variable pitch fans led to a good balance between the requirements for high thrust and responsive control at low speed, and efficient thrust at cruise speeds. Engine-out requirements, integration of propulsion and aerodynamic controls, and the propulsion installation were the major factors influencing the configuration. An airplane with a multimission capability from both vertical and short takeoff was conceived.


Abstract. Significance: Despite remarkable advances in the core modalities used in combating cancer, malignant diseases remain the second largest cause of death globally. Interstitial photodynamic therapy (IPDT) has emerged as an alternative approach for the treatment of solid tumors. Aim: The aim of our study is to outline the advancements in IPDT in recent years and provide our vision for the inclusion of IPDT in standard-of-care (SoC) treatment guidelines of specific malignant diseases. Approach: First, the SoC treatment for solid tumors is described, and the attractive properties of IPDT are presented. Second, the application of IPDT for selected types of tumors is discussed. Finally, future opportunities are considered. Results: Strong research efforts in academic, clinical, and industrial settings have led to significant improvements in the current implementation of IPDT, and these studies have demonstrated the unique advantages of this modality for the treatment of solid tumors. It is envisioned that further randomized prospective clinical trials and treatment optimization will enable a wide acceptance of IPDT in the clinical community and inclusion in SoC guidelines for well-defined clinical indications. Conclusions: The minimally invasive nature of this treatment modality combined with the relatively mild side effects makes IPDT a compelling alternative option for treatment in a number of clinical applications. The adaptability of this technique provides many opportunities to both optimize and personalize the treatment.


Delayed presentation of a traumatic diaphragmatic hernia is an infrequent condition with a high mortality and morbidity rate. This case describes a 26-year-old man presenting with a 2-day history of cramping abdominal pain, dyspnea, nausea, and vomiting. The patient reported a penetrating thoracic injury one year prior to the development of clinical signs. Computed tomography revealed the presence of empyema or parapneumonic effusion of the left hemithorax. Based on the clinical history and physical findings, a diaphragmatic hernia was considered and an emergency laparotomy with segmental resec- tion of strangulated jejunum and reduction of remaining bowel was performed. A 1.5 cm tendinous defect was identified and repaired. The patient recovered and was discharged uneventfully. Conclusion: the early recognition of a delayed diaphragmatic hernia contributed to the uneventful recovery of this critically ill patient.


Abstract: This article argues that there is a contradiction contained within the Framework Directive on Equal Treatment in Employment and Occupation and the UK Government?s proposals for implementing it. There is a distinction between the business justification for encouraging diversity in the workforce and the human rights justification for ending age discrimination. The first approach weakens the latter by legitimising continued discrimination on the basis of age. This is especially important because there is a close relationship between age discrimination and discrimination on the grounds of sex, race and disability.


We introduce the simplest one-dimensional model of a nonlinear system with the parity-time (PT ) symmetry, which makes it possible to find numerical solutions for localized modes ("solitons"). The PT -symmetric element is represented by a point-like (delta-functional) gain-loss dipole ~ δ'(x), combined with the usual attractive potential ~ δ(x). The nonlinearity is represented by self-focusing (SF) Kerr terms, both spatially uniform and localized ones. The system can be implemented in planar optical waveguides. For the sake of comparison, also introduced is the model with separated δ-functional gain and loss, embedded into the linear medium and combined with the δ-localized Kerr nonlinearity and attractive potential. Full analytical solutions for pinned modes are found in both models. The numerical solutions are obtained in the gain-loss-dipole model with the δ'- and δ- functions replaced by their Lorentzian regularization. With the increase of the dipole's strength, γ, the single-peak shape of the numerically found mode, supported by the uniform SF nonlinearity, transforms into a double-peak one. This transition coincides with the onset of the escape instability of the pinned soliton.


This paper considers the problem of scheduling n jobs on a single machine. A fixed processing time and an execution interval are associated with each job. Job execution intervals are assumed to be nested each inside the other, like Russian dolls. The objective is to minimize the number of late jobs. For this problem, denoted as 1|ri,nested| P Ui, a new dominance condition and an optimal O(n 3 ) solving procedure are proposed.


Aim: The aim of the present study was planned to investigate the efficacy of asarone and metformin HCl as an antioxidant on experimentally induced diabetic-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) condition in male Wistar rats. Methods: Diabetes was induced in experimental rats by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 55 mg/kg b.w.). Following two weeks of STZ injection, the diabetic-HCC condition was simulated in the rats with a single intraperitoneal dose of diethylnitrosamine (DEN; 200 mg/ kg b.w.). The α-and β-asarone combination in the ratio of 1:1 (50 μg/kg b.w.) and metformin HCl (250 mg/kg b.w.) treatment were orally given to the diabetic-HCC rats up to 18-weeks. At the end of the experimental period, rats were sacrificed after the withdrawal of blood for biochemical and liver samples were isolated for the antioxidant and histopathological analysis. Results: The elevated levels of liver function test such as alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin and decreased levels of total protein, albumin and globulin indicated the hepatic damage in the diabetic-HCC rats. Further, the STZ+DEN-induced oxidative stress was confirmed by the elevated levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and decreased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reduced glutathione (GSH) and Vitamin-C. Treatment with asarone and metformin significantly ameliorated the STZ+DEN-induced hepatic damage and oxidative stress. Histopathological evidence also showed recovery of the hepatic architecture in diabeticHCC rats treated with asarone and metformin. Conclusion: Asarone and metformin exhibit good hepatoprotective and antioxidant potential against STZ+DEN-induced HCC in rats.


Marginal costs defined as the additional costs needed for meeting additional electricity demand are estimated by using separable programming model analysis. The shadow prices obtained with a linear programming optimal solution are transformed into marginal costs corresponding to the spontaneous peak, peak, middle, and off-peak time periods in the load duration curve. Marginal cost corresponding to the spontaneous peak time period, which is interpreted as the capital cost increase minus the fuel cost saving, is represented as the sum of those two costs by using the inverse of the optimal basis matrix of the linear programming model.


ABSTRACT This paper reviews plant-inspired biomimicry for novel materials applied within architecture and building elements. Bioinspiration is considered at a materials level, and examples explored through increasing scale, towards elements and components for application at the building level in new designs and approaches. The review of plant biology mechanisms indicates that a single plant attribute can give rise to many biomimetic concepts. It is common for these to overlap, providing different routes to interrelated technological or design challenges. By focusing on six specific plant inspirations (self-cleaning, self-healing, cell wall structures, plant movements, cellular structures and branched structures) the paper highlights established and emerging approaches in bioinspired materials. Several areas are identified where additional research is needed to progress from materials and small assemblies up to building element or full structure. One is service life, and may necessitate that self-cleaning and self-healing concepts are re-visited for new inspiration applicable to new generation materials. Multi-functionality will become increasingly important. Scaling of concepts from small prototypes to full elements also poses challenges in both the materials selection for stresses incurred, and the alteration of geometry to fit the structural form while retaining the biomimetic function. A holistic approach of multiple inspirations is often required.


Abstract Background  Perforators are typically found in rows in the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap. As methods to assess flap perfusion continue to improve, surgeons may be more likely to select perforators traditionally avoided. The purpose of this article is to describe clinical outcomes based on row and number of perforators to reevaluate flap and abdominal donor site morbidity. Methods  A retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent breast reconstruction with DIEP flaps by four microsurgeons from 2013 to 2020. The row and number of perforators were determined from operative reports. Chi-square and t -test or nonparametric Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon two-sample test were used for discrete and continuous variable, respectively, as applicable. Logistic regression was used for multivariable analyses. Results  Of 628 flaps, 305 were medial row (58.7%), 159 were lateral row (30.6%), and 55 had both rows (10.6%). Partial flap loss was higher in both rows ( p  = 0.003). Fat necrosis was higher with medial ( p  = 0.03) and both rows ( p  = 0.01) when compared with lateral using multivariable analysis. Hernia or bulge was higher in lateral row flaps (lateral: 8/157, 5.1%; medial, 5/299, 1.7%; both, 0/55; p  = 0.05); however, mesh was more commonly used in both row flaps ( p  = 0.05). There was no difference in fat necrosis or abdominal morbidity between single and multiple perforators. Conclusion  There was no difference in fat necrosis based on the number or row of perforators. The lateral row provides adequate perfusion but may be associated with an elevated risk of hernia or bulge. Patients may benefit from mesh, especially when both rows are dissected.


Lignocellulosic butanol residue (BR), obtained as the by-product of lignocellulosic butanol production, was used for the preparation of lignin-based phenol-resorcinol-formaldehyde resins (LPRFRs) by condensation polymerization. The lignin was first phenolated under sodium hydroxide catalysis at 90 to 92 °C at various phenolation times (1.0 to 4.0 h). The structural differences between BR and phenolated BR (PBR) were studied using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The BR phenolated for 3.0 h had high phenol hydroxyl content, low molecular weight, and good thermal stability. The LPRFRs with 30 wt.% BR had the lowest free formaldehyde and phenol. With the substitution of BR for phenol, the hydrophilicity of LPRFRs increased. In addition, the mechanical, fragility, thermal properties, and morphology of lignin-phenol-resorcinol-formaldehyde foams (LPRFFs) were also investigated. The LPRFFs had excellent comprehensive properties when 30 wt.% PBR was substituted for phenol. These experimental findings could provide a new avenue for further study and application of bio-phenol-resorcinol foams.


The question whether R represents information or noise is still a fundamental question in the study of stock price synchronicity. There are two main difficulties. Firstly, the trait information of a company is hard to measure; Secondly, the investors' sophistication is ignored when we discuss the effectiveness of market. Through the study of Chinese SSE E-interaction platform and the measurement by textual analysis method, this article argues that the improvement of investors' sophistication has negative association with stock price synchronicity. This result is more salient in companies with lower opacity or with higher corporate governance. This paper contributes to the deepen understanding of stock price synchronicity and new method of measuring trait information of companies.


Here I report my observations and assessments following two weeks of training at Juntendo University, including stints at the main hospital, the Tokyo Koto Geriatric Medical Center, and Shizuoka Hospital with its associated Faculty of Health Science and Nursing. I focus on three facets: work division and specification of duties, coordination both multidisciplinary and multi-facility to achieve state-of-the-art treatment, and finally, exemplary nurse training programs. All three facets combine to ensure that patients receive the highest level of care from thoroughly trained and motivated health care professionals who are dedicated to serving patients' medical needs while deeply respecting individual dignity.


Subsurface Miocene sedimentary rocks have been recognized in the Whatcom basin of southwestern British Columbia and northwestern Washington in two deep exploratory wells using palynological techniques.

The flora is characteristic of a warm temperate to temperate climate and probably represents three basic assemblages: (1) warm temperate, probably growing on the basin lowland, (2) temperate, probably growing on uplands on the basin margins, and (3) a much smaller assemblage characteristic of somewhat higher elevations and, therefore, probably well back from the basin margins.


Artificial immune systems (AIS) are one of natural computing inspired by the natural immune system. The fault detection, the pattern recognition, the system control and the optimization are major application area of artificial immune systems. This paper gives a concept of artificial immune systems and useful techniques as like the clonal selection, the immune network theory and the negative selection. A concise survey on the optimization problem based on artificial immune systems is generated. The overall performance of artificial immune systems for the optimization problem is discussed.


Infections caused by protozoans remain a public health issue, especially in tropical countries. Serious adverse events, lack of efficacy at the different stages of the infection and routes of administration that have a negative impact on treatment adherence are some of the problems with currently available therapy against these diseases. Here we describe an epigenetic target, sirtuin 2 and its related proteins, that is promising given the results in phenotypic assays and in vivo models against Sir2 of Plasmodium falciparum, Leishmania donovani, Leishmania infantum, Schistosoma mansoni, Trypanosoma brucei and Trypanosoma cruzi parasites. The results we present highlight how this target can be extensively explored and how its inhibitors might be employed in the clinic.


This paper provides a highlight of the existing local community adaptation strategies that fishing communities in Rufiji Basin, in Tanzania, are employing to counteract the negative impacts of climate change and climate variability. Data were collected through key informants interviews, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews using a structured questionnaire that was administered to 120 household heads from two fishing communities (marine and freshwater resources communities). Findings indicate that, communities have acknowledge existence of a significant change in rainfall patterns, wind direction and duration, temperature and variation in seasons. These have resulted into disappearance of some fish species and fish production in terms of lowering catches. Following the low catch and disapearance of some species, the fishing communities have developed some adaptation strategies including shifting to crop cultivation, fishing during both day and night, sailing long distances for fishing and zoning the fishing areas. From the findings obtained, a framework that integrates local communities' effective copying strategies that has been indicated to work better in the area and interventions geared to influence policy and institutions that are dealing either directly or indirectly with the impact of climate change and climate variability is recommended to aid decision making that will ensure the impacts of climate change and climate variability is reduced for the good of the fishing communities.


Dear Sir, We have read with interest the case report entitled 'Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma presenting as an isolated temporal soft tissue swelling' by Benson-Mitchell et al. (1996), but feel their report needs comment. The diagnosis of primary lymphoma in this case is very controversial, partially because its existence as a pathological entity can be questioned. The major controversy regarding this case lies in the difficulty of knowing whether it is a primary lesion, or an occult lymphoma with an initial manifestation in the soft tissue of temporal region, or a secondary from a lymphoma elsewhere. It is very likely to be the latter based on the nature of this disease. Furthermore, the case was insufficiently investigated, and not followed up long enough to substantiate the diagnosis. In the last few years, there have been detailed studies of the natural history and treatment of localized Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of unfavourable histology (as this case). As a result, the role of surgery in the management of these cases has been sharply modified. Since malignant lymphoma is by nature a systemic disease, metastasizes haemotogenously, and chemoand radio-sensitive, surgery appears to be contra-indicated and should be used only after failure of chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. This combined approach has been shown to be effective in localized aggressive lymphomas in improving disease free survival and overall survival (Miller and Jones, 1983; Connors et al., 1987).


We present a rare case of primary renal carcinoid tumor that metastasized to the liver and kidneys. The tumor and the metastases were hypovascular angiographically, did not enhance on CT, and were hyperechoic with a hypoechoic halo on ultrasound. A similar pattern has been seen in a few cases previously reported in the literature.


With the increasing demands for large-scale and fine-resolution models, simulations of the reaction-diffusion systems are becoming more and more time consuming. Combined with the Stochastic Simulation Method (SSA), the Parallel Discrete-Event Simulation (PDES) is a promising approach to utilize the parallelism in these models. Since synchronization algorithms play the key role in PDES, in this paper, we experimentally investigate the performance and scalability of optimistic synchronization algorithms in simulations of reaction-diffusion systems. First, the Abstract Next Subvolume Method(ANSM), a variant of the Next Subvolume Method (NSM), is presented. It integrates the logical process (LP) based modeling paradigm with several simulation algorithms including both sequential and parallel execution. Second, based on ANSM, three optimistic synchronization algorithms, including a pure optimistic approach, an optimistic approach with risk-free message sending,and a hybrid approach combined the above two are respectively plugged into the simulation. Third, a group of experiments are conducted to study the characteristics of the synchronization algorithms in the parallel simulation of a typical reaction-diffusion systems. The results show that comparing with the pure optimistic approaches, moderate optimistic approaches are more suitable for the stochastic simulation of reaction-diffusion systems, with respect to both the performance and the scalability.