Objective: While educational researchers have considered many factors related to academic performance
in undergraduate education, the impact of specific study behaviors and skills directly related to improving
performance in health science education have been largely overlooked. The purpose of the current study was
to examine the preliminary reliability and validity of the study behavior inventory (SBI), a tool used for measuring
study behaviors associated with higher academic performance among students in health science education
programs. Materials and Methods: Participants were 34 (n = 34) students enrolled in various health
science education programs (graduate studies in the health sciences = 11, health related professions = 6,
medicine = 11, nursing = 3, and pharmacy = 3) receiving academic support services at an academic health
science center in the southeastern United States. Students completed the SBI, the learning and study strategies
inventory (LASSI), and the approaches and study skills inventory for students (ASSIST) prior to receiving services.
Results: The internal consistency and the convergent validity of the SBI were assessed. The results indicated
adequate Cronbach's alpha for SBI's time allocation (TA) scale (0.76) and strategy (ST) scale (0.71). Statistically
significant positive correlations were found for the TA scale and LASSI's time management scale and ASSIST's
strategic approach. Statistically significant positive correlations were found for the ST scale, and several LASSI
scales measure learning strategies and ASSIST's strategic and deep approaches. Conclusions: This pilot
study provided preliminary evidence that the SBI is a reliable tool with convergent validity that can be used to
assess study time management and study strategies utilized by health science students. More research on the
psychometric properties of the SBI is warranted to establish the SBI as a valuable tool in the identification of
study behaviors and skills related to academic performance in health science students.


It is recommended to vaccinate health care workers against influenza and streptococcus pneumoniae if at risk group. This study is done to determine the vaccination rates and attitudes on vaccines of health care workers. A total of 192 health care workers (100 female, 92 males) consisting of 55 nurses, 42 health officers, 21 paramedics, 19 medical secretaries, 52 auxiliary staff, and 3 domestic health care givers were questioned between October 2011-January 2012. One-hundred and fifty-five (80.7%) health care workers were nonvaccinated against influenza. The reasons of this were fear of side effects (% 30,2 (n:29), doubt on efficacy (%27,1 (26), unawaraness of the vaccine (%23,5 (n:23), doubt on safety (%19,8 (n:19), and lack of adequate data %16,8 (n:16). Sixty-eight (48.6%) of influenza-nonvaccinated workers recommended patients vaccination whereas 23 (69.7%) of vaccinated workers recommended the vaccine. Vaccine recommendation rates of influenza-vaccinated workers were significantly higher. Pneumococcal vaccinatation recommendation rates were similar in influenza-vaccinated or nonvaccinated workers. Six (3.4%) health care workers were vaccinated against streptoccocus pneumoniae. Vaccine recommendation rates for pneumococcal vaccine were significantly higher in vaccinated than nonvaccinated workers (66% and 48%, respectively). The reasons for nonvaccination were fear of side effects (% 28,9 (n:33), doubt on efficacy (%25,4 (n:29), unawareness of the vaccine (%23,1 (n:27), doubt on safety (%20,2 (n:23), and lack of adequate data (%16,8 (n:19). As a conclusion, health care workers have a low rate of vaccination and recommendation of vaccination against influenza and streptococcus pneumoniae.


Abstract The conflict between Joseph Lancaster, Andrew Bell and their respective supporters over priority in the discovery and development of monitorial schooling usually appears as a quaint historical episode in work on this pedagogy. This two-part article focuses on it directly. Part one outlines the literature on conflicts over priority in techno-scientific discovery. It examines the early history of monitorial pedagogy and shows that the initial contacts between the eventual protagonists were more or less in a spirit of experimental cooperation. Part two documents the conditions for the emergence of the dispute over priority in invention and follows its course through the periodical, pamphlet and sermon literature. The article concludes by noting that while claims to novelty and invention in pedagogy were ultimately abandoned, nonetheless, agreement on a standard model came to be accepted as the basis of pedagogical practice.


Evolution has shaped the limbs of hoofed animals in specific ways. In artiodactyls, it is the common assumption that the metatarsal is composed of the fusion of digits III and IV, whereas the other three digits have been lost or are highly reduced. However, evidence from the fossil record and internal morphology of the metatarsal challenges these assumptions. Furthermore, only a few taxonomic groups have been analysed. In giraffes, we discovered that all five digits are present in the adult metatarsal and are highly fused and modified rather than lost. We examined high-resolution micro-computed tomography scans of the metatarsals of two mid and late Miocene giraffid fossils and the extant giraffe and okapi. In all the Giraffidae analysed, we found a combination of four morphologies: (1) four articular facets; (2) four or, in most cases, five separate medullary cavities internally; (3) a clear, small digit I; and (4) in the two fossil taxa of unknown genus, the presence of external elongated grooves where the fusions of digits II and V have taken place. Giraffa and Okapia, the extant Giraffidae, show a difference from all the extinct taxa in having more flattened digits tightly packed together, suggesting convergent highly fused digits despite divergent ecologies and locomotion. These discoveries provide evidence that enhances our understanding of how bones fuse and call into question current hypotheses of digit loss.


The Mary Swartz Rose Young Investigator Award This award is given to an investigator within 10 y of postgraduate training, for outstanding research on the safety and efficacy of bioactive compounds for human health. The award is supported by the Council for Responsible Nutrition. Recent recipients include:ZMadak-Erdogan, GDNoratto, Y Li. The Mead Johnson Award This award is given to an investigator for a single outstanding piece of nutrition research or a series of papers on the same subject accomplished within 10 y of postgraduate training. The award is supported by Mead Johnson Pediatric Nutrition Institute. Recent recipients include: P Spangnuolo, HJ Leidy, R Bruno.


BACKGROUND
Heroin overdose is responsible for significant mortality. It has not previously been highlighted as an important prevention or care issue for general practitioners (GPs) involved in the management of drug misuse.

AIMS
To examine the prevalence and experience of heroin overdose in a population of drug users attending a general practice.

METHOD
A questionnaire-based interview of drug users attending a general practice in Dublin, Ireland.

RESULTS
Twenty-four (73% of estimated total) drug users were interviewed. Although 17 (71%) were on recognised methadone treatment programmes, 10 (42%) were still injecting heroin. A total of 23 (96%) had witnessed an overdose, with 10 (42%) having been victims of overdose themselves. Twenty-two (92%) knew a victim of fatal overdose, with four (17%) having been present at a fatal overdose. The interviews revealed high levels of activity associated with overdose and poor use of preventive measures.

CONCLUSION
The issue of prevention and management of overdose should become a priority for GPs caring for opiate-dependent patients.


The weapon target assignment (WTA) problem is an important task to tactical arrangements in military commitment operations. It describes the optimal method to allocate defenses in opposition to threats in fighting situations. It is an NP-complete issue in which no accurate outcome for all conceivable situations is known. The time performance of created algorithms is a major challenge in modeling the WTA problem, which has only been lately considered in related papers. This article introduces a new algorithm called Swarm Urochordate Algorithm (SUA) which is inspired nature by tunicates to solve the WTA problem. The suggested method is compared to nine metaheuristic approaches recently established for 30 well-known testing benchmarks. Convergence and computer complexity are also examined. The experimental findings show that the method presented works better than previous competing metaheuristic approaches.


To reduce the detection failure of the exchanging signal power onto the OFDM subcarrier signal at uniform quantization, dynamic subcarrier mapping is applied. Moreover, to addressing low SNR's wall-less than pre-determine threshold, non-uniform quantization or adaptive quantization for the signal quantization size parameter is proposed. μ-law is adopted for adaptive quantization subcarrier mapping which is deployed in mobility environment, such as Doppler Effect and Rayleigh Fading propagation. In this works, sensing node received signal power then sampled into a different polarity positive and negative in μ-law quantization and divided into several segmentation levels. Each segmentation levels are divided into several sub-segment has representing one tone signal subcarrier number OFDM which has the number of quantization level and the width power. The results show that by using both methods, a significant difference is obtained around 8 dB compared to those not using the adaptive method.


A new defected ground structure (DGS) is flrstly proposed in this paper, which has better slow-wave efiect than that of cross or dumbbell one. Using the model of transmission line, its equivalent parameters are extracted. With good omni-directional properties, the proposed DGS is then used in the design of a proximity coupled antenna for its miniaturization. The size of the developed antenna is about 68% smaller than that of the conventional one. Further, two artiflcial cells are added on the feed line to reduce the protrudent stub length from 26.9mm to 18.94mm. With the utility of the DGS and artiflcial cells, the size of proximity coupled antenna is reduced signiflcantly. By introducing a PIN diode at the end of feed line, the antenna is switchable in both x- and y-direction linear polarizations. Such miniaturization in antenna size has little negative efiect on its cross polarization, with both simulated and experimental results presented for comparison.


Self-regulated learners are expected to plan their own learning. Because planning is a complex task, it is not self-evident that all learners can perform this task successfully. In this study, we examined the effects of two planning support tools on the quality of created plans, planning behavior, task load, and acquired knowledge. Sixty-five participants each worked with two versions of a planning tool. In one version, learning plans were actively constructed by the learners themselves; the other version provided learners with an adaptable computer-generated plan. The results indicated that the quality of learner-created plans was lower than computer-generated plans. Furthermore, participants reported a higher task load when they constructed the plans by themselves. However, participants gained more structural knowledge about the learning domain when they actively created plans. There was not an apparent preference for one of the tools if participants were to create a plan for someone else. However, if they were to use the plan for their own learning, participants preferred to actively create their own plans.


| The fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an invasive polyphagous pest, particularly damaging to corn. Although native to American continents, it has spread in various African and Asian countries. However, no confirmed report of its presence has been made from Pakistan as it has already been reported from its neighbors India and China. So, this study was conducted in 15 corn growing areas of Sindh, Pakistan to determine the presence and damage status of FAW on fodder and grain corn along with sorghum and millet. The presence of FAW was confirmed from all corn growing districts of Sindh except Jacobabad, Larkana and Shikarpur districts of upper Sindh. The identification of FAW was done based on its morphological characters. More damage was recorded in fodder corn than grain corn. The presence of FAW was also recorded from sorghum and millet. The 100% damage was recorded on fodder corn in Shaheed Benazirabad district. Although this is the first record of FAW from Sindh, Pakistan, but, a country wide study along with molecular identification of FAW should be conducted to confirm its presence in corn growing areas of Pakistan. This could be helpful to restrict its further spread with proper management.


The degree to which people perceive that their health-relevant behaviors are also performed by their peers may influence whether they continue these practices or are susceptible to change. The present paper examined estimates of social consensus for health-relevant behaviors. It was hypothesized that respondents would perceive their own behaviors to be relatively more common than do people not performing them, the so-called False Consensus Effect. However, in terms of the accuracy of consensus estimates, people who behave in undesirable ways will tend to overestimate the actual number of others who behave similarly. In contrast, people who behave in desirable ways will underestimate the actual number of people who behave like themselves (false uniqueness). A group of college-aged males were asked to report about their performance of a series of health-relevant behaviors and to estimate the frequency of each behavior among their peers. The findings strongly supported the first two hypotheses and provided some support for the third. One practical implication of the results is that persons with unhealthy practices may resist public health campaigns and other interventions by overestimating consensus for their own behaviors. Also, individuals who think their undesirable health behaviors are relatively common may believe that they involve few health risks for them. The research suggests the need for further research on social cognitions about health, illness, and health-protective behaviors.


The objective of this study is to develop an operational model for analysing public policy based on the typology of stakeholders. This typology, which categorised stakeholders into seven types on the basis of three stakeholder attributes (power, legitimacy and urgency), provided a useful conceptual definition and categorisation of stakeholders, but it failed to provide a practical framework for subsequent development of public policy, especially in the context of conflicts between various types of stakeholders. The present study therefore utilised the conceptual typology to develop a practical analytical operational model for the development of public policy in the context of potential stakeholder conflict. The operational model involved two stages and two layers in developing a procedure for analysing stakeholder conflict. A five-level evaluation system was developed to specify the level of intensity of stakeholder conflict. To demonstrate how the proposed model works, the paper presented an empirical case study of the construction of Taiwan's No. 5 National Highway.

 Key words: Public policy, public management, stakeholder theory.


In this paper, we present an implementation of a leaning-based control of a differential drive telepresence robot and a user study in simulation, with the goal of bringing the same functionality to a real telepresence robot. The participants used a balance board to control the robot and viewed the virtual environment through a head-mounted display. The main motivation for using a balance board as the control device stems from Virtual Reality (VR) sickness; even small movements of your own body matching the motions seen on the screen decrease the sensory conflict between vision and vestibular organs, which lies at the heart of most theories regarding the onset of VR sickness. To test the hypothesis that the balance board as a control method would be less sickening than using joysticks, we designed a user study (N=32, 15 women) in which the participants drove a simulated differential drive robot in a virtual environment with either a Nintendo Wii Balance Board or joysticks. However, our pre-registered main hypotheses were not supported; the joystick did not cause any more VR sickness on the participants than the balance board, and the board proved to be statistically significantly more difficult to use, both subjectively and objectively. Analyzing the open-ended questions revealed these results to be likely connected, meaning that the difficulty of use seemed to affect sickness; even unlimited training time before the test did not make the use as easy as the familiar joystick. Thus, making the board easier to use is a key to enable its potential; we present a few possibilities towards this goal.


In this research work, a mathematical model for simulation of the solar radiation system has been developed by using a system dynamics methodology. Bangladesh is used here for model validation. The simulated results obtained from this model have compared with the experimental results and found reasonably a good agreement. Therefore the performance of the model is to be expected as satisfactory.


Besides infringement and preliminary ruling procedures, actions for annulment form a third important category of procedures brought before the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). A subset of these actions is 'horizontal litigation', where EU institutions litigate against other EU institutions. Based on a new dataset covering all horizontal annulment conflicts (1957–2017), this contribution analyzes conflict patterns. I identify the most typical litigant constellations and link them to substantial battles over competences including winners and losers. Using the example of EU external affairs, I show how annulment actions have shaped the relationship between EU institutions over time, with impact as significant as treaty changes. In sum, the analysis of this so far 'forgotten' type of procedure furthers our systematic understanding of policy development and competence allocation in the EU system.


This paper describes an algorithm for making short-term route predictions for vehicle drivers. It uses a simple Markov model to make probabilistic predictions by looking at a driver's just-driven path. The model is trained from the driver's long term trip history from GPS data. We envision applications including driver warnings, anticipatory information delivery, and various automatic vehicle behaviors. The algorithm is based on discrete road segments, whose average length is 237.5 meters. In one instantiation, the algorithm can predict the next road segment with 90% accuracy. We explore variations of the algorithm and find one that is both simple and accurate.


The digital signal processing methodology known as wave digital filters (WD) transforms analog networks into topological equivalent digital filters. Such a feature makes WD a powerful technique for simulating power system transients. Every WD filter can be considered to be a digital model of a certain continuous-time filter or a network, called its reference filter or reference network. In many respects, both the reference filter and the WD filter behave similarly. For example, if the reference filter is passive or lossless, the corresponding WD filter will be passive or lossless, respectively. Although the concept of WD filtering was originally introduced to simulate linear circuits, it can be applied to nonlinear networks as well.


A survey of the avifaunal resources was conducted in the three campuses (Choba, Abuja, and Delta) of the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria to ascertain their bird species composition, abundance, diversity, and affinity for different tree species. Bird census was carried out on twelve focal trees in each of the three campuses for a period of six months. Shannon-Wiener (H) and Simpson (1 – D) diversity indices were used to measure the diversity of bird species in each of the campuses, while similarity in bird species between campuses was ascertained using Sorensen's similarity index (SI). Paleontological Statistics (PAST) software was used to obtain a hierarchical classification of the tree species in each campus based on the similarity of bird species sighted on them. A total of 5277 birds belonging to 8 species were encountered in Choba Campus; 3937 belonging to 7 species in Abuja Campus; and 3034 belonging to 8 species in Delta Campus. Choba Campus had the highest bird diversity (H = 0.6623; Simpson 1 – D = 0.3370), followed by Abuja Campus (H = 0.4415; Simpson 1 – D = 0.2217), and Delta Campus (H = 0.1656; Simpson 1 – D = 0.05804). Similarity in bird species composition was highest between Abuja Campus and Delta Campus (SI = 93%) and least between Choba Campus and Delta Campus (SI = 63%). Ploceus cucullatus was the most abundant bird species in the three campuses. In Abuja Campus, Cocus nucifera, Polyalthia longifolia and Terminalia catappa were ecologically the most distant tree species with respect to bird species composition; in Delta Campus, Cocus nucifera, Pinus caribaea, and Polyalthia longifolia, were the most ecologically distant; while Hura crepitans and Polyalthia longifolia were the most ecologically distant in Choba Park. Further investigation is required to ascertain why bird species in the various campuses showed no affinity for Cocus nucifera and Polyalthia longifolia. Key words: University of Port Harcourt, avifauna, abundance, diversity, tree-bird interaction


The path layer matrix (or path degree sequence) of a graph G contains quantitative information about all possible paths in G. The entry (i,j) of this matrix is the number of paths in G having initial vertex i and length j. It is known that there are cubic graphs on 62 vertices having the same path layer matrix (A. A. Dobrynin. J Graph Theory 17 (1993) 1–4). A new upper bound of 36 vertices for the least order of such cubic graphs is established. This bound is realized by cubic graphs without cut‐vertices. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Graph Theory 38: 177–182, 2001


The G protein-coupled receptor MC4R (Melanocortin-4 Receptor) and its associated protein MRAP2 (Melanocortin Receptor-Associated Protein 2) are both essential for the regulation of food intake and body weight in humans and mice. MC4R localizes and functions at the neuronal primary cilium, a microtubule-based organelle that senses and relays extracellular signals. Here, we demonstrate that MRAP2 is critical for the ciliary localization and weight-regulating function of MC4R. Our data reveal that GPCR localization to primary cilia can require specific accessory proteins that may not be present in heterologous cell systems. Our findings also demonstrate the essential role of neuronal primary cilia localization of MC4R for adequate control of energy homeostasis and the obesity-promoting effect of genetic disruption of this pathway.


Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells have been used widely in the pharmaceutical industry for production of biological therapeutics including monoclonal antibodies (mAb). The integrity of the gene of interest and the accuracy of the relay of genetic information impact product quality and patient safety. Here we employed next-generation sequencing, particularly RNA-seq, and developed a method to systematically analyze the mutation rate of the mRNA of CHO cell lines producing a mAb. The effect of an extended culturing period to mimic the scale of cell expansion in a manufacturing process and varying selection pressure in the cell culture were also closely examined.


Closed-loop control of a snowplow applicator, based on direct measurement of the road surface condition, is a valuable technology for the optimisation of winter road maintenance costs and for the protection of the environment from the negative impacts of excessive usage of de-icing chemicals. To this end, a novel friction measurement wheel is designed to provide a continuous measurement of road friction coefficient, which is, in turn, utilised to control the applicator automatically on a snowplow. It is desired that the automated snowplow applicator deploy de-icing materials right from the beginning of any slippery surface detected by the friction wheel, meaning that no portion of the slippery road surface should be left untreated behind, as the snowplow travels over it at a reasonably high speed. This paper describes the developed wheel-based measurement system, the friction estimation algorithm and the expected performance of the closed-loop applicator system. Conventional and zero velocity applicators are introduced and their hardware time delays are measured in addition to the time delay of the friction estimation algorithm. The overall performance of the closed-loop applicator control system is shown to be reliable at typical snowplowing speeds if the zero velocity applicator is used.


In this article the participation of different brain neuron systems in the integration of fear responses, and in the anti-anxiety action of minor tranquilizers (MT) is discussed. As necessary background, the molecular mechanisms of MT action disclosed by recent neurochemical research are briefly described. The reviewed evidence suggests that MT decrease anxiety by impairing the functioning of brain neuron systems integrating defensive behavior. These systems are the septo-hippocampal system, together with its afferent mono-aminergic input from the rostral brain stem, which commands behavioral inhibition arising in situations involving threat of punishment or frustration. In addition, the brain aversive system comprising the dorsal periaqueductal gray matter, the periventricular gray matter and the amygdala integrates the active defense patterns of fight or flight as well as elaborates aversive motivation. The depressant action of MT upon both defense systems may be primarily due to facilitation of neurotransmission mediated by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).


The bipolar resistive switching (RS) behaviors in Pt (top)/GdOx/TaNx (bottom) memory cells were investigated systematically for RRAM applications. Compared to that of the memory cells in Pt/GdOx/Pt structure showing unipolar switching behaviors, the memory cells in Pt/GdOx/TaNx structure with bipolar switching behaviors show better switching properties, such as better switching reliability, enhanced cycling endurance, improved low resistive state value and more uniform RS parameters. The composition and chemical bonding states of the prepared GdOx and TaNx films were analyzed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy to elucidate the underlying resistive switching mechanisms for Pt/GdOx/TaNx structures. The results show that both the oxygen vacancies in the GdOx film and the interfacial TaON layer formed between the dielectric GdOx film and the TaNx bottom electrode play important roles in the RS performance improvement.


Purpose: The present paper analyses the role of nature in the lives of the tribals while exploring their indigenous eco-customs and traditions that have helped in sustaining their eco-centric approach to life. It also explores the culture-nature dialectic that surfaces the long-lasting conflict between tradition and modernity through a distinctive tribal perspective.
Methodology/ Approach: Postcolonial ecocritical approach.
Findings: The paper analyzes Oceanside Blues (2001) by Dhruv Bhatt, a Gujarati writer, from an eco-critical perspective while exploring the representation of tribal eco sensibilities and analyzing their eco-ethical imports. The narratives along with sending a lucid message for the survival of ecology, urge the human race to rekindle its communion with nature.
Conclusion: The novel in itself is a piece of resistance against the colonial activities that harm the environment as well as the tribal people by seizing their land on their preconceived notion of growth and development that contradicts their cultural values. Nature protests in its own ways like the sea protesting against environmental destruction in the form of a tornado in the region.


This paper introduces a framework to estimate road network traffic conditions by assimilating probe and detector data into traffic simulations. In this traffic simulation, the trajectories of some vehicles are controlled by the observed probe vehicles, then the speed reductions of these vehicles propagate according to the kinematic wave theory. In addition, the origin-destination matrix is optimized using a mathematical model so that the errors in the estimated link traffic volumes from the detector data can be minimized. By applying this framework, the traffic conditions on the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway Network were estimated. By comparing the estimation results with the detector data, it was confirmed that the estimation showed a good accuracy in terms of link traffic volumes, and traffic congestion at the typical bottlenecks could be reasonably represented to some extent.


Diospyros lotus, also known as date-plum, belongs to the Ebenaceae family and is mostly recognized as a rootstock for D. kaki. Similar classes of naphthoquinones in D. lotus are investigated against cancer and inflammation and have antimicrobial, sedative, and analgesic properties. Six chemical constituents (1-6) were isolated from Diospyros lotus and tested for anti-inflammatory effects at the dose of 2.5 and 5 mg/kg, i.p., using carrageenan (1%, 0.05 ml)-induced paw edema. The maximum protection against carrageenan-induced edema was observed for compounds 1 and 2. Both studied compounds demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effect after the 3rd hour of posttreatment. The maximum anti-inflammatory effect of compound 1 was 85.96%, while that of compound 2 was 81.44%, followed by compounds 5 and 6, which exhibited 80.11% and 82.45% effect, respectively. Similarly, histamine-induced inflammation was significantly antagonized by 1, 2, 5, and 6 with 87.99%, 82.18±1.8, 80.40±1.59, and 77.44% effects, respectively, at 5 mg/kg after the 2nd hour of posttreatment. The rest of the tested compounds did not show any significant effect as compared to the negative control. Interestingly, no toxicity was observed at higher doses. Moreover, the extracted compounds showed remarkable antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive bacteria and no effect against the Gram-negative bacteria. Docking studies on target cyclooxygenases showed that all the compounds established interactions with the key amino acid residues present in the additional pocket of COX-2. Hence, these compounds may act as selective COX-2 inhibitors. In conclusion, the findings of the current study suggest that the roots of Diospyros lotus may contain some anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents with minimal toxicological effects and accordingly this plant product is recommended for further investigations.


Two novel automated methods for the determination of surface roughness and chemical distribution in individual nanoparticles are presented and applied to nanoparticles synthesised by the galvanic replacement reaction. The two methodologies apply the determination of circumferential and radial line profiles to determine surface roughness and elemental distribution respectively. The surface roughness analysis provides details on localised changes in roughness in comparison to single measures of circularity. The X-ray spectroscopic concentric ring scan outperforms conventional line scans when elemental distribution approximately possesses a spherical symmetry.


Abstract This paper introduces a new computer-based visualization method, the parallel arc diagram (PAD), which is capable of uniquely representing 2-mode temporal relationships in a manner that assists in highlighting simple features of the network. The PAD approach relies on a computer's ability to render link lines adjacent to each other with orderly precision, resulting in features that facilitate preattentive processing of simple network characteristics and providing the ability to discern patterns of interactions over time. PADs supplement existing methods such as node-link diagrams by offering a simple alternative visualization without the computational complexity of graph layout algorithms and the additional issues that animation introduces. This paper subjectively evaluates the PAD approach using low level task taxonomies developed for assessing adjacency matrix and node-link visualization effectiveness. We argue based on those taxonomies that the PAD approach is as effective or in some cases more effective than existing approaches except for tasks requiring the identification of structural groups or middle-man nodes. This paper also demonstrates how the PAD approach can be utilized in a software application. The TIPAD (Temporal Interactive Parallel Arc Diagram) uses character participation in movie scenes as a test-bed for exploring social interactions over time and provides the ability to compare a PAD based visualization with traditional visualizations of the same network.


The conflict between humans did not stop throughout the ages, and humans have used everything in nature to serve this conflict since the first ages of history, during the First World War when the world witnessed the actual use of chemical weapons, and nuclear weapons during World War II By the United States of America against Japan, which greatly developed a biological warfare program before and during World War II, and a lot of information regarding this program was withheld by an agreement between Japan and the USA after Japan's defeat in the war. Finally, the countries of the world succeeded in signing a Biological Warfare Convention (BWC) in 1972, and the Ninth Review Conference will be held for this convention during 2021 to discuss its articles and try to develop its mechanisms to prevent the development and use of biological weapons in the conflict between nations. According to the British novelist George Orwell, "Life is a race between education and catastrophe". As the great development in the field of genetic technologies and the production of vaccines collided with the emergence of new pathogens, the latest of which is the emerging SARS-CoV-2 virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic around the world, and once again the major countries have been accused by each other of spreading this virus in the world intentionally or by accident. We must carefully examine these allegations before making decisions, because these allegations may have negative repercussions on the future of humanity. Key words: biological, warfare, weapons, BWC, genetic engineering, COVID-19 pandemic


Legitimacy of environmental management and policies is an important topic in environmental research. Based on the notion of 'regimes of justification', we aim to analyse the dynamics in argumentations used to legitimize and de-legitimize Dutch nature conservation practices. Contrary to prior studies, we demonstrate how actors in two locations where environmental disputes arose showed little willingness to switch between arguments in order to reach a compromise. Instead, some actors constructed incompatibilities between arguments in order to delegitimize competing actors. Especially in the visioning phase, institutional actors emphasized technical efficiency, planning and global environmentalism, and arguments related to emotional accounts, inspiration and locality were de-legitimized. In the discussion, we argue that it is not the formal or informal inclusion of the actors in the process, but the construction of the legitimacy of their arguments that determines the inclusiveness and outcome of the process.


Abstract. In Egypt, the total area of agricultural land is 3.36 million acres, which is 3.8 % of the entire territory of the country. One of the main obstacles to agricultural production in Egypt is soil salinization and degradation. Therefore, saline-sodic soil reclamation in arid regions is highly relevant. This study aimed to use Azospirillum inoculation with eco-friendly organic wastes for free remediation of saline-sodic soils. In this work nine treatments included two levels of spent grain (S1 and S2), two levels of compost (C1 and C2), a mix of both sources (C1S1), one level of Azospirillum (A1), a mix of both sources with Azospirillum (A1S1 and A1C1) and an untreated control. The treatments were previously incubated with soil at field capacity for five months under laboratory conditions at 28 °C. The most relevant chemical and biological parameters were analysed every month for five months. Results indicate that Azospirillum inoculation with spent grain increased soil organic carbon (SOC), dehydrogenase and urease enzymes, micro-nutrients (Fe2+, Zn2+, Mn2+, Cu2+ and B+), and macro-nutrients (N, P and K); while decreased exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP), pH and EC, by 75 %, 12 %, and 43 % respectively, compared to initial conditions. The significant variation was observed in chemical and biological properties among all treatments in the order of S2 > A1S1 > A1 > C2 > C1S1 > A1C1 > C1 > control. In conclusion, the addition of Azospirillum with spent grain is highly recommended for amelioration of the saline-sodic soil and is more effective compared with compost to remediate saline-sodic soils.


Background Collaborative care is a complex intervention based on chronic disease management models and is effective in the management of depression. However, there is still uncertainty about which components of collaborative care are effective. We used meta-regression to identify factors in collaborative care associated with improvement in patient outcomes (depressive symptoms) and the process of care (use of anti-depressant medication). Methods and Findings Systematic review with meta-regression. The Cochrane Collaboration Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis Group trials registers were searched from inception to 9th February 2012. An update was run in the CENTRAL trials database on 29th December 2013. Inclusion criteria were: randomised controlled trials of collaborative care for adults ≥18 years with a primary diagnosis of depression or mixed anxiety and depressive disorder. Random effects meta-regression was used to estimate regression coefficients with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) between study level covariates and depressive symptoms and relative risk (95% CI) and anti-depressant use. The association between anti-depressant use and improvement in depression was also explored. Seventy four trials were identified (85 comparisons, across 21,345 participants). Collaborative care that included psychological interventions predicted improvement in depression (β coefficient −0.11, 95% CI −0.20 to −0.01, p = 0.03). Systematic identification of patients (relative risk 1.43, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.81, p = 0.004) and the presence of a chronic physical condition (relative risk 1.32, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.65, p = 0.02) predicted use of anti-depressant medication. Conclusion Trials of collaborative care that included psychological treatment, with or without anti-depressant medication, appeared to improve depression more than those without psychological treatment. Trials that used systematic methods to identify patients with depression and also trials that included patients with a chronic physical condition reported improved use of anti-depressant medication. However, these findings are limited by the observational nature of meta-regression, incomplete data reporting, and the use of study aggregates.


Sensor network technology is one of the most promising technologies in the high technology field. Building integrated multi-sensor disaster monitoring system based on sensor network technology is the main direction of the intelligent disaster monitoring technique. The exploitation activities of the mineral resources may lead to geological disasters, so monitoring system needs to speed up the theory and technology innovations, i.e. disaster monitoring, forecasting, early warning and prevention. This paper expounds the concept connotation and key technologies of the geosensor network which contains constructing the unified mining space-time standards, sensor layout principles, and surface disaster monitoring technologies. In addition, the methods of data publication and service in sensor network based on sensor observation service (SOS) are also discussed. It also designs the integral framework of ground disaster monitoring system with SOS. Utilizing the geosensor networks in the ground disaster monitoring system to realize real-time access, cooperative observation, dynamic monitoring, analyzing and predicting the monitoring data will enhance disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities of the monitoring system.


After classical radical neck dissection with removal of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and division of the spinal accessory nerve, there are certain disabling or disagreeable musculoskeletal defects. This paper describes the muscular deficiencies and gives a set of exercises which can be counted on to minimize the problems.


present practice of dissection of selected areas. It is also of interest that few efforts seem to have been made to assess the students' abilities and technical skills in dissection, rather than their knowledge of topographical anatomy. Experiments to test these assumptions, and to investigate the types of technical skills needed and used by successful surgeons and their pattern of development, could be relatively easily devised and carried out. It is devoutly to be hoped thiat some attempt to do so will be made, to reduce the sterility that will otherwise unavoidably enter this discussion.-I am, etc.,


Self-report surveys are widely used to measure adolescent risk behavior and academic adjustment, with results having an impact on national policy, assessment of school quality, and evaluation of school interventions. However, data obtained from self-reports can be distorted when adolescents intentionally provide inaccurate or careless responses. The current study illustrates the problem of invalid respondents in a sample (N = 52,012) from 323 high schools that responded to a statewide assessment of school climate. Two approaches for identifying invalid respondents were applied, and contrasts between the valid and invalid responses revealed differences in means, prevalence rates of student adjustment, and associations among reports of bullying victimization and student adjustment outcomes. The results lend additional support for the need to screen for invalid responders in adolescent samples.


The loss of ability to perform routine activities can result in difficulties for the stroke patient to resume their normal lifestyle. A desire to assist stroke patients after discharge prompted this pilot study into the needs of these patients during and after a program of rehabilitation at a day hospital. A longitudinal approach was used for this pilot study. The aim of the study was to identify patients' needs pertaining to the resumption of their lifestyle, and social and emotional well-being, that emerged during the rehabilitation programme at the day hospital, on its completion and within six months of discharge from the day hospital. The study consisted of three semi-structured interviews with ten stroke patients over a period of nine to twelve months. The semi-structured interview employed open-ended questions to collect information from the participants. The interview process sought to elicit the needs of the participants during their time at the day hospital and then after discharge. It was evident from the interviews that the needs of the participants were primarily the opportunity to practice activities which could improve physical capabilities as the physical limitations placed on the participants by the stroke affected their motivation, morale and general sense of self. The day hospital was instrumental in providing participants with opportunities to learn to 'use' what was functioning, and therefore help the participants improve their physical capabilities. This assisted them to regain their independence. During the interviews participants also spoke about social and emotional needs. While they received some support from interactions with the staff and other patients at the day hospital, participants stated that mostly social and emotional support came from their families. After discharge from the day hospital participants were unable to identify specific needs which they believed the day hospital could provide.


This study investigated the effects of exercise intensity on PGC-1α, PPAR-γ, and insulin resistance in skeletal muscle of high fat diet-fed Sprague-Dawley rats. Forty rats were randomly divided into five groups: sedentary control group (SED), high fat diet group (HF), high fat diet+low-intensity exercise group (HFLE, 22 m/min, 60 min, 6 days/week), high fat diet+moderate-intensity exercise group (HFME, 26 m/min, 51 min), and high fat diet+high-in- tensity exercise group (HFHE, 30 m/min, 46 min). After 4 weeks of high fat diet and endurance exercise training, the lipid profiles, insulin, and glucose concentrations were determined in plasma. PGC-1α, PPAR-γ, and GLUT-4 contents were measured in plantaris muscle. The rate of glucose transport in soleus muscle was determined under submaximal insulin concentration (1,000 μIU/mL insulin, 20 min) during muscle incubation. Plasma glucose during oral glucose tolerance test in HF was significantly greater than that in SED, and plasma glucose levels in the three exercise (EX) groups were significantly lower that those in SED and HF at 30 and 60 min, respectively (P<0.05). Plasma insulin levels in the EX groups were significantly reduced by 60 min compared to that in HF (P<0.05). The protein expression level of PGC-1α as well as muscle glucose uptake were significantly higher in SED and HF than those in the three EX groups (P<0.05), and HFHE showed significantly higher levels than HFLE and HFME. Expression levels of GLUT-4 and PPAR-γ were significantly higher in the HFLE, HFME, and HFHE groups compared to the SED and HF (P<0.05). Therefore, the results of this study indicate that 4 weeks of high fat diet significantly developed whole body insulin resistance but did not affect PGC-1α, PPAR-γ, or the glucose transport rate in skeletal muscle, and exercise training was able to attenuate deteriorated whole body insulin resistance due to high fat diet. In addition, high intensity training significantly affected PGC-1α expression and the glucose transport rate of skeletal muscle in comparison with low and middle training intensities.


The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and Procalcitonin (PCT) are biomarkers that represent inflammatory activity and immune status as predictors for the prognosis of COVID-19 patients. NLR values and PCT levels are positively correlated with the severity of COVID-19, but the relationship between the two biomarkers is unclear. Objectives: To analyzed the correlation between NLR values and PCT levels in COVID-19 patients in Jember Regency. Methods: This cross-sectional analytic observational study, conducted from March to April 2022, took data from 444 confirmed COVID-19 patients at the Jember Clinic Plantation Hospital. Secondary data were obtained from medical records of inpatients for the period January–December 2021. Results: The average NLR value was 8.58, while the average PCT level was 0.43 ng/mL. The results of the Spearman Correlation Analysis showed a positive correlation between NLR values and PCT levels in COVID-19 patients in the Jember Regency with a p-value = 0.00 and a moderate degree of correlation with an r count of 0.41. Conclusion: There is a positive correlation between NLR values and PCT levels for COVID-19 patients in Jember Regency. It is necessary to carry out routine NLR and PCT examinations to consider predictors of disease severity and prognosis in COVID-19 patients.Keywords:  COVID-19, NLR, PCT


Abstract  The present paper deals with four new species and two new record species of genus of Botanophila Lioy, 1864 from Gansu and Shaanxi provinces, China; i.e. Botanophila angustisilva sp. nov., Botanophila chelonocerca sp. nov., Botanophila sanctiforecps sp. nov., Botanophila subobscura sp. nov. The two new record species are Botanophila guinlani (Ackland 1967), Botanophila rotundivalva (Ringdahl 1937). All the type specimens are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.


The estimation of reliable measures of the valuation of travel time savings (VTTS) is one of the main topics in the area of travel behaviour research. Such estimates are a crucial input for policy decisions, for example in the context of cost benefit analysis. Two main ways exist of improving the reliability of VTTS estimates; using better data, and using better modelling approaches. The aim of using better data can be achieved primarily by improving the design of the surveys used in the collection. However, the stability and quality of estimates can also be improved upon by making use of larger samples and by using a more cross-sectional sample of the population, i.e. making the sample population more representative of the overall population. In terms of using better modelling approaches, there are again two possible avenues for improvements, namely those of model structure and model specification. The former refers to the actual mathematical structure of the econometric model, while the latter concerns the specification of the utility function used in that model. evidence from a large-scale VTTS study conducted in Switzerland, where the aim is precisely to improve the reliability of the VTTS estimates through improving the quality of the model inputs and the model specification. The quality of the data is improved through grouping together observations from five separate SP studies conducted over recent years, leading to a very large sample size of almost 60,000 observations. This not only improves the stability of the results through estimation on a larger sample size, but the aggregation of five datasets should arguably provide a better cross-section of the population. In terms of model specification, we make use of flexible non-linear specifications that allow for a continuous interaction between income and trip distance and the various marginal utility coefficients. This allows us to directly gauge the variations in the VTTS in relation to income and trip distance, and also proves very useful when extrapolating the results from the sample level to the population level. On completion of the study, the results of the analysis will be fully integrated into the new official Swiss guidance for cost-benefit analysis. Initial findings from the analysis show significant differences when compared to corresponding analyses making use of a more basic utility specification. As expected, the results obtained on the overall sample differ from those obtained on the individual samples, by giving a weighted average. For the covering abstract see ITRD E137145.


Abstract A generalization of the three-dimensional Frohlich hamiltonian for a polar semiconductor is presented which describes the interaction between charge carriers of a zero-dimensional electron gas and longitudinal optical (LO) phonon modes confined in three spatial dimensions. This hamiltonian is used to calculate the scattering rate of electrons by LO phonons in a GaAs quantum box which is free-standing in vacuum. The suppression of scattering through a phonon bottleneck effect is discussed in terms of the selection rules.


The structural stabilities and electronic structures of Nb atomic chains are studied by employing first-principles plane wave pseudopotential method based on the density functional theory. The calculations show that niobium can form planarchains in linear-, zigzag-, dimer- and ladder-form one-dimensional structures. The most stable one among the studied structures are the zigzag-form linear chain, and all the other structures are metastable. The relative structural stabilit y, the electronic energy bands, the density of states and the charge densities a re discussed based on the ab initio calculations and the Jahn-Teller effects.


Currently, real competitive advantages in the market are acquired by agricultural enterprises that introduce and develop modern digital technologies. At the same time, for the effective implementation of the digitalization process, it is necessary to complete the staff of enterprises with the appropriate number of specialists. The theoretical foundations of training and employment of IT specialists, as well as methods of managing IT personnel in the agroindustrial complex are considered. The current state of the training of information technology specialists in Russia is analyzed. The situation with the training of students in leading universities is considered in detail. The regularities reflecting the annual volatility of the number of applicants with a general trend of moderate growth are revealed, the forecast of preservation of the corresponding parameters of human capital development is made, the attractiveness of vacancies in the agricultural sector is determined on the basis of a retrospective analysis of indicators characterizing the formation of personnel potential in the IT sphere. A set of measures to improve the provision of the agricultural sector with highly qualified IT specialists is proposed.


This paper presents a user-friendly approach for multi-label point cloud annotation. The method requires the user to select sparse control points belonging to the objects through a mouse-based interface. Multiple control points may be assigned to the same label. The software utilizes the selected control points to perform a segmentation algorithm on the neighborhood graph, based on shortest path tree. The user is provided a real-time feedback about the result, and can correct segmentation errors. In contrast to previous work the method supports multi-label annotation of unorganized point clouds. The method has been evaluated by multiple users and compared with a standard rectangle-based selection technique. Results indicate that the proposed method is perceived as easier to use, and that it allows a faster segmentation even in complex scenarios with occlusions.


Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are promising power sources from portable electronic devices to vehicles. The high-cost issue of these low-temperature fuel cells can be primarily addressed by using platinum-group metal (PGM)-free oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts, in particular atomically dispersed metal–nitrogen–carbon (M–N–C, M = Fe, Co, Mn). Furthermore, a significant advantage of M–N–C catalysts is their superior methanol tolerance over Pt, which can mitigate the methanol cross-over effect and offer great potential of using a higher concentration of methanol in DMFCs. Here, we investigated the ORR catalytic properties of M–N–C catalysts in methanol-containing acidic electrolytes via experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. FeN4 sites demonstrated the highest methanol tolerance ability when compared to metal-free pyridinic N, CoN4, and MnN4 active sites. The methanol adsorption on MN4 sites is even strengthened when electrode potentials are applied during the ORR. The negative influence of methanol adsorption becomes significant for methanol concentrations higher than 2.0 M. However, the methanol adsorption does not affect the 4e− ORR pathway or chemically destroy the FeN4 sites. The understanding of the methanol-induced ORR activity loss guides the design of promising M–N–C cathode catalyst in DMFCs. Accordingly, we developed a dual-metal site Fe/Co–N–C catalyst through a combined chemical-doping and adsorption strategy. Instead of generating a possible synergistic effect, the introduced Co atoms in the first doping step act as "scissors" for Zn removal in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), which is crucial for modifying the porosity of the catalyst and providing more defects for stabilizing the active FeN4 sites generated in the second adsorption step. The Fe/Co–N–C catalyst significantly improved the ORR catalytic activity and delivered remarkably enhanced peak power densities (i.e., 502 and 135 mW cm−2) under H2–air and methanol–air conditions, respectively, representing the best performance for both types of fuel cells. Notably, the fundamental understanding of methanol tolerance, along with the encouraging DMFC performance, will open an avenue for the potential application of atomically dispersed M–N–C catalysts in other direct alcohol or ammonia fuel cells.


Simulation-based training (SBT) teaches healthcare teams to manage critical events, using crisis resource management skills. The purpose of this study was to assess staff perceptions of using SBT in the endoscopy suite. Nurses and technicians were invited to participate in a training program that used simulation of endoscopy-based scenarios to teach crisis resource management skills. Participants completed surveys prior to, immediately following, and 1-month following SBT. Surveys assessed the usefulness, enjoyment, applicability, and realism of SBT using 5-point Likert scales. Eleven (92%) of the 12 nurses (10 = female, median age = 45 years) and four (80%) of five technicians (3 = female, 37 years of age) participated. Prior to participation, nurses with more than 5 years' experience rated their expected enjoyment of SBT to be lower than less-experienced peers (mean = 2.6 vs. 4.5, p =.005). When surveyed immediately after participation, both groups reported SBT to be highly useful (mean ± SD, 4.6 ± 0.9 vs. 5.0 ± 0), enjoyable (3.8 ± 0.8 vs. 4.6 ± 0.5), applicable (4.0 ± 0.8 vs. 4.7 ± 0.8), and realistic (4.0 ± 0.7 vs. 4.7 ± 0.8). One month after training, 14 of the 15 participants expressed interest in future programs, using simulation to practice crisis resource management skills. Findings suggest that SBT may serve as an enjoyable, applicable, and realistic tool to enhance a team's performance in the endoscopy suite across all caregivers and different levels of experience.


Cell surface major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I molecules are associated with self peptides that are collectively referred to as the self MHC I immunopeptidome (sMII). Despite the tremendous importance of the sMII, very little is known on its genesis and molecular composition. On the other hand, it is well established that the signalling pathway involving mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays an essential role in the regulation of processes such as ribosome biogenesis and protein translation which are critical for cell growth, proliferation and differentiation. In this work, we studied the influence of mTOR on the sMII for two major reasons: the tremendous importance of this pathway in oncogenic processes its role in the control of protein synthesis, which is at the origin of the generation of the sMII. To achieve this goal, we developed a novel high-throughput mass spectrometry approach that yields an accurate definition of the nature and relative abundance of unlabeled peptides presented by MHC I molecules. Starting from EL4 thymoma peptide extracts, more than 200 MHC I-associated peptides were sequenced with high confidence level across more than 5500 peptide clusters reproductibly identified through replicate injections (n = 3). Comparison of the sMII of EL4 thymomas before and after rapamycin stimulation revealed that 13% of the MHC I-associated peptides were significant overexpressed (fold change ≥ 2, p-value ≤ 0.05) after mTOR inhibition. Out of the 27 MHC I peptide candidates showing differential expression, 60% of peptide source proteins were linked to cell development and/or proliferation including ITFIFKSL and NAIKNHWNSTM assigned to FK506 binding protein 12 (mTOR) and myeloblastosis oncogene (c-myb) proteins, respectively. These results indicate that cell signalling events have a major impact on the composition of the sMII that can be monitored by analyses of high-throughput MS-based quantitative profiles.


We have recently purified calorigen, the natural trigger for heat production in the inflorescences of Sauromatum guttatum Schott (voodoo lily), a thermogenic plant, and identified it as salicylic acid. Since then an analytical assay was developed that allows the quantitation of salicylic acid in plant tissues. This assay was used to demonstrate that on the day preceding the day of blooming the levels of salicylic acid in the thermogenic organs (appendix and lower spadix) of the voodoo lily increased almost 100-fold, reaching a level of 1 mug/g of fresh weight. The level of salicylic acid in the appendix started to rise in the afternoon and reached its maximum in the late evening, whereas the maximum accumulation of salicylic acid in the lower spadix occurred late at night. The increase in salicylic acid level in the appendix was followed the next morning by a spectacular metabolic burst that lasted for about 7 hr and at its peak increased the appendix temperature by over 12 degrees C. The second, 14-hr-long, thermogenic episode in the lower spadix started late at night and ended on the following morning, after maximum temperature increases of more than 10 degrees C. The concentration of salicylic acid in both thermogenic tissues promptly returned to basal, preblooming levels at the end of the thermogenic periods. The thermogenic response was under strong photoperiodic and developmental control, with salicylic acid eliciting much stronger thermogenic responses in light than in darkness. Similar surges in salicylic acid occurred in nonthermogenic male and female flowers, while the concentration of salicylic acid in the spathe remained consistently below 20 ng/g of fresh weight. Of 33 analogs of salicylic acid tested, only 2,6-dihydroxybenzoic acid and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) were thermogenic. The activity of 2,6-dihydroxybenzoic acid exceeded that of salicylic acid.


Purpose: In this action study, researchers worked with a team of interdisciplinary practitioners to co-develop knowledge and practice in a medical unit of a large urban hospital in Canada. An appreciative inquiry approach was utilized to guide the project. This article specifically focuses on examining the research experiences of practitioners and their accounts on how the research influenced their practice development to enact person-centered care. Method: The project took place in the hospital's medical unit. A total of 50 staff participants attended focus groups including nursing staff, allied health practitioners, unit leaders, and physicians. One senior hospital administrator was interviewed individually. In total, 36 focus groups were conducted to bring participants together to co-vision and co-develop person-centered care. Results: Analysis of the data produced three themes: (a) appreciating the power of co-inquiry, (b) building team capacity, and (c) continuous development. Furthermore, 10 key enablers for engaging staff in the research process were developed from the data. A conceptual tool, "team Engagement Action Making" (TEAM) has been created to support others to do similar work in practice development. Conclusion: An appreciative inquiry approach has the potential to address gaps in knowledge by revealing ways to take action. Future research should further investigate how the appreciative inquiry approach may be used to support bridging research and practice.


Objective:Critically ill patients may be at high risk of venous thromboembolism. The objective was to determine the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors for proximal lower extremity deep venous thrombosis among critically ill medical-surgical patients. Design:Prospective cohort. Setting:Closed university-affiliated intensive care unit. Patients:We enrolled consecutive patients ≥18 yrs of age expected to be in intensive care unit for ≥72 hrs. Exclusion criteria were an admitting diagnosis of trauma, orthopedic surgery, pregnancy, and life support withdrawal. Interventions:Interventions included bilateral lower extremity compression ultrasound within 48 hrs of intensive care unit admission, twice weekly, and if venous thromboembolism was clinically suspected. Thromboprophylaxis was protocol directed and universal. We recorded deep venous thrombosis risk factors at baseline and daily, using multivariate regression analysis to determine independent predictors. Patients were followed to hospital discharge. Results:Among 261 patients with a mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score of 25.5 (±8.4), the prevalence of deep venous thrombosis was 2.7% (95% confidence interval 1.1–5.5) on intensive care unit admission, and the incidence was 9.6% (95% confidence interval 6.3–13.8) over the intensive care unit stay. We identified four independent risk factors for intensive care unit-acquired deep venous thrombosis: personal or family history of venous thromboembolism (hazard ratio 4.0, 95% confidence interval 1.5–10.3), end-stage renal failure (hazard ratio 3.7, 95% confidence interval 1.2–11.1), platelet transfusion (hazard ratio 3.2, 95% confidence interval 1.2–8.4), and vasopressor use (hazard ratio 2.8, 95% confidence interval 1.1–7.2). Patients with deep venous thrombosis had a longer duration of mechanical ventilation (p = .03), intensive care unit stay (p = .005), and hospitalization (p < .001) than patients without deep venous thrombosis. Conclusions:Despite universal thromboprophylaxis, medical-surgical critically ill patients remain at risk for lower extremity deep venous thrombosis. Further research is needed to evaluate the risks and benefits of more intense venous thromboembolism prophylaxis.


Abstract The conventional Kohler theory, which describes the equilibrium sizes of hygroscopic aerosol particles in humid air, is modified by considering the solubility limitation so that the deliquescence and hysteresis processes can also be explained. A set of modified Kohler curves was constructed based on the modified theory. The deliquescence, dehydration, and spontaneous crystallization points (relative humidities) that are the characteristics of the aerosol particles can be identified on the modified Kohler curve diagram. These characteristic relative humidities were derived analytically. The relationships between the equilibrium (wet) size, dry size, and the corresponding solute concentration of ammonium sulfate particles were also established for various ambient relative humidities.


Summary: The ITC Test Translation and Adaptation Guidelines have been available for nearly 7 years, and numerous researchers and practitioners have provided comments on their strengths and weaknesses. This paper addresses three goals: First, comments on the 22 guidelines that have resulted from the numerous field-tests and reviews are presented. Second, where possible, specific suggestions for revising the ITC Guidelines are described. Finally, three suggestions for essential research to improve the methodology associated with translating and adapting tests are presented.


Sunsets - or expiring provisions - have long been a feature of the tax code, but they changed dramatically in character and magnitude in recent years as policy makers aimed to hide the costs of recent tax cuts. Removing all the sunsets in the tax code would reduce revenue by almost $2 trillion over the next decade, more than the entire legislated cost of the 2001, 2002, and 2003 tax cuts. The revenue loss in 2013 alone would be $430 billion, or 2.4 percent of GDP going forward. This exceeds the 75-year actuarial shortfalls in the social security and medicare trust funds combined. The best way to prevent the removal of existing sunsets would be to re-instate the pay-as-you-go rules that required that mandatory spending increases or tax cuts be financed by other changes in taxes or spending.


The paper focuses on the automatic selection of the grouped explanatory variables in a high-dimensional model, when the model blue error is asymmetric. After introducing the model and notations, we define the adaptive group LASSO expectile estimator for which we prove the oracle properties: the sparsity and the asymptotic normality. Afterwards, the results are generalized by considering the asymmetric -norm loss function. The theoretical results are obtained in several cases with respect to the number of variable groups. This number can be fixed or dependent on the sample size n, with the possibility that it is of the same order as n. Note that these new estimators allow us to consider weaker assumptions on the data and on the model errors than the usual ones. Simulation study demonstrates the competitive performance of the proposed penalized expectile regression, especially when the samples size is close to the number of explanatory variables and model errors are asymmetrical. An application on air pollution data is considered.


PURPOSE
To evaluate the usefulness, reliability and sensitivity of invertography, perineal ultrasonography (US) and augmented-pressure distal colostography (APDC) in the diagnostic assessment of children with anorectal malformations (ARM).

MATERIAL AND METHODS
Author retrospectively analysed the results of bowel-skin distance measured by means of three different imaging techniques in 39 children with ARM. The obtained results were verified by intraoperative measurements.

RESULTS
Sensitivity of invertography performed in 22 patients was 27 % with a mean error of measurement of 0.84 cm, and the difference between measurements and real distance was statistically significant. Sensitivity of perineal US (22 children) was 86 % (mean error 0.12 cm) and of APDC (26 patients) was 100 % (0.05 cm) with no significant difference between measurements and intraoperative findings (p > 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS
The study revealed a limited usefulness of invertography in the diagnostic evaluation of ARM. Perineal US was extremely useful in the newborn period and provided reliable information on which to base a decision for either preliminary colostomy or definitive operation. With a colostomy in place APDC, the most sensitive of the three methods, allowed for later precise definition of the defect and visualization of fistulas between bowel and urogenital tract.


This meta-synthesis on community-based instruction and vocational learning in special education explores the training and skills individuals with disabilities require need to survive and thrive in employment and post -school activities designed to improve self reliance, personal responsibility, and increase exposure to the community and all of the activities and opportunities that exist there. Substantial barriers must be addressed for all individuals with disabilities, but particularly for those individuals with moderate to more severe disabilities. Through proper trainings, and the utilization of the necessary tools and equipment, individuals with disabilities will continue to increasingly transition into meaningful employment and community-based programs intended to build self


Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic, recurrent mood disorder (Kendler, Thornton, & Gardner, 2000; Kumar, Harmer, & Dourish, 2013) with an estimated lifetime prevalence of 16.2% (Kessler et al., 2003) which affects more than 350 million people globally (WHO, 2013).
MDD has a complicated and multifarious neuropathology, a result of which is largely ineffective and out-dated pharmacological treatments (Skolnick, 1999). Typical antidepressants are either serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SRI) or tri-cyclic antidepressants (TCA), both of which target the monoamine system (serotonin and/or dopamine). However, research has suggested a myriad of distinct hypotheses for depression through localisation of functionally distinct neuroanatomical structures, identification of neurotransmitter modulation and receptor subunit alterations as well as genetic, environmental and behavioural observations that could all be targets for antidepressant therapy.
Alterations of the GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmitter systems have been reported in major depressive disorder (MDD), both post-mortem in-vitro and ante-mortem in-vivo. Evidence from magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies reported lower bulk concentrations of GABA in currently depressed participants as compared with healthy controls, which may reflect a neurobiological pathology, serve as a biomarker, and guide development of new pharmacological therapies.
If this area of research is to see translation to a clinical setting, the roles of GABA (and glutamate) in depression need to be fully elucidated. Some of the questions that arise are: Do alterations in GABA concentration reflect state or trait markers of depression? Does the GABA deficit observed in depression reflect 'functional' GABA? Does an existing pharmacological compound with antidepressant efficacy act on the GABA system? This thesis addresses these questions primarily utilizing multimodal neuroimaging techniques, along with computational neuronal modelling and pharmacological manipulation.


Liquid metal atomization using a De Laval nozzle has proven its efficiency in producing fine and narrow sized powder. The modeling work of gas dynamics related to nozzle geometry has led to a better understanding of the effects of the processing parameters. During the emptying of the crucible, the decrease in the static height of the melt acts on the metal mass flow rate. An experimental study on the particle size distribution in the cross-section of the spray and its evolution during the process has confirmed the unsteadiness of the process. By establishing a model to fit the gas pressure to the mass flow rate evolution, an almost steady state can be reached for the process. This has brought us to reduce the mean particle size and to improve the narrowness of the as-atomized particle size distribution.


Advance biochemical techniques describes rapid advancements of techniques in experimental biochemistry for the encouragement of the students and instructors. The purpose of the book is to provide junior senior students majoring in biochemistry, chemistry and biological science with modern and complete experience in experimental biochemistry. Biochemistry laboratory has become even more of prominent fixture in the curriculum. The book provides a complete set of techniques used in biochemical analysis. Most part of the book was written at biochemistry laboratory of Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan. The stimulating environment of the laboratory and the physical beauty of the surroundings all helped to make writing pleasure. The authors encourage comments from instructors and students. Abdul Ghaffar Bushra Munir


Dr. Pamela Wisniewski is an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida's Department of Computer Science and an inaugural member of the ACM Future Computing Academy. As a human-computer interaction researcher, she studies privacy as a means to protect people, but more importantly, as a social mechanism to enrich online interactions that people share with others. She is particularly interested in the interplay between social media, privacy, and online safety for adolescents. Being a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, she is committed to protecting at-risk youth from online sexual predation risks, as well as empowering vulnerable youth online, so that they can garner the resources and support they need to overcome adversity and succeed in life.


One of World War II's most brilliant and controversial generals, George S. Patton (1885-1945) fought in North Africa and Sicily, as commander of the Third Army, spearheaded the Allies' spectacular 1944-1945 sweep through France, Belgium, and Germany. Martin Blumenson is the only historian to enjoy unlimited access to the vast Patton papers. his many books include Masters of the Art of Command (available from Da Capo Press) and Patton: The Man Behind the Legend.


Craving is closely interconnected with substance addiction. Its precise role of mediator or indicator is frequently discussed, although it has also been identified as a relevant factor in continued substance use and relapse after stopping. The assessment of craving is particularly complex because different theories adopt different methodologies and measures. Desire to use and the loss of control of use are frequently adopted as constructs within instruments. The control of substance use can conceptually be developed in Coping self-efficacy, defined as ability to resist substance use in high-risk situations. There is strong evidence in literature about craving as an important factor that supports remission and reduces relapse risk. More specifically, a high sense of coping self-efficacy to resist substance use at treatment intake, during treatment, and/or after treatment discharge, is a stable predictor of better results in alcohol and substance use. The Self-efficacy scale and desire (SAD) is an Italian language self-report instrument with 27 items assessing desire for a specific substance of abuse (heroin, cocaine) and the perceived ability to resist use (Coping self-efficacy). It is possible to calculate a score for Desire scale and for Coping self-efficacy scale and a score for three sub-scales: Positive emotions and social situations, Negative emotions and potentially critical situations, Habit and abstinence, each with nine items. Results of validation process highlight an excellent internal consistency measured by Cronbach coefficient for both scales. Split-half reliability and convergent validity with Visual Analogue Scale for craving measurement were also explored.


The development and judicious use of agricultural biotechnology offers important contributions to food security and sustainability. Key contributions include improved yield, heightened pathogen and herbivore resistance, enhanced nutrient content, improved product quality, reduced spoilage, as well as entirely new traits. While a first wave of genetically engineered (GE) crop products has been commercialized and contributed to yield, other products – some posing significant benefits to target populations in the developing world – have become mired in controversy. Public misconception about nutritional and ecological risks, fears about multinational corporate dominance, as well as regulatory inaction have delayed the approval and use of GE crops. With new GE lines ready to pass through regulatory oversight, many of which originate from developing countries, we regard this as a pivotal moment for global acceptance of agricultural biotechnology. However, we note that some countries, international regulators, and even biotechnology companies seem willing to forego useful applications of GE crops. We conclude that educating and informing the public to combat misperception, and implementing review of regulatory guidelines based on decades of experience can help to realize the benefits of GE for food security, human well-being, and ecological sustainability.


OBJECTIVE: To use clinical and functional characteristics observed upon admission to an emergency room to identify factors predictive of the occurrence and course of acute asthma attacks in children. METHODS: We prospectively studied 130 asthmatic children, from 1 to 13 years of age, who were treated for acute asthma attacks in an emergency room, evaluating status determined at admission and over the course of the crisis. Clinical scores were determined and arterial oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry was measured, as was peak expiratory flow. RESULTS: The initial clinical score, arterial oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry and peak expiratory flow correlated with the number of inhalations performed, as well as with the need for corticosteroid treatment. Mean initial clinical score and mean arterial oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry of the hospitalized patients were statistically different from those of patients who were not hospitalized. Initial clinical score, arterial oxygen saturation and prior treatment for the same exacerbation were predictive of the need for hospitalization. CONCLUSION: The measurement of arterial oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry and the clinical score were useful in predicting the occurrence and course of acute asthma attacks in children. The measurement and interpretation of peak expiratory flow is difficult in children and, under these conditions, served no practical application.


The development of a novel method to attenuate bacterial virulence is reported, which is based upon the use of designed transition-state analogues to select human catalytic antibodies capable of degrading bacterial quorum-sensing molecules.


We report first trimester cystic hygroma colli with subsequent resolution and development of a fetal akinesia deformation sequence. Neuropathological examination of the brain showed intra- and extracellular white matter edema while spinal cord, peripheral nerves and muscles were normal. Hygroma colli as the first echographic sign of subsequent severe fetal akinesia sequence without muscular dystrophy as seen in the Lethal Multiple Pterygium syndrome has not been previously reported.


Background Renewable energy (RE) systems are becoming a central component of the clean energy transition and are often seen as the way to combat climate change. Their establishment requires innovation, investments, and deployment policies for emerging technologies. Governments around the world are increasingly trying to create and support the energy-tech and climate-tech innovation ecosystems in their attempt to promote an innovation-supporting environment. However, energy innovation policies are often aligned with the dichotomous notion of technology-push and market-pull and overlook the social, political, and cultural contexts in which RE innovative technologies are embedded, and the multiple actors and interactions that are associated with their development. By combining the Middle-Out Perspective (MOP) and innovation literature, this paper argues that an innovation ecosystem could be weaved from the middle-out. Methods This paper analyzes the case of 'Eilat-Eilot Renewable Energy Initiative' and Israel's RE innovation ecosystem creation through the lens of the MOP and applies a socio-technical interpretation to the push and pull terminology. Process tracing methodology was applied to trace a sequence of events to determine whether an actor was pushed or pulled, the formation of a network of actors, and its evolvement to an energy innovation ecosystem from the middle-out. Data for the analysis were collected from interviews, policy papers, media articles, and Governmental decisions. Results The analysis demonstrates how middle actors push the implementation of RE technologies in Israel, and at the same time pull decision-makers and other middle actors to promote the low carbon transition. The push and pull forces and the interactions between actors lead to the engagement of new stakeholders in the innovation network, the adoption of more ambitious RE targets and supporting policies, and the creation of an effective RE innovation ecosystem. Conclusions This paper uses the MOP as an analytical framework and the push and pull terminology to demonstrate how a middle actor initiates and develops an actor-network by interacting with other actors. As this network broadens, it forms an effective innovation ecosystem. A network of actors has the potential to lead change, provide innovative ideas, initiate research, encourage investments, create employment possibilities, and promote regional sustainable development.


Peninsula Health's Older Wiser Lifestyles (OWL) program is Australia's first older adult-specific alcohol and other drugs service. We were pleased to see McLaughlin et al.'s [1] recommendation for national guidelines for non-hazardous alcohol consumption by older Australians. This recommendation was based on evidence indicating that changes in physiology associated with the natural ageing process affect the pharmacokinetics of alcohol [2,3], as well as McLaughlin et al.'s findings regarding sex differences and the benefits of alcohol-free days [1].


Mild hydrochloric acid hydrolysis of i-carrageenan
from Eucheuma spinosum yielded two
oligosaccharides of sulfated tetrasaccharide structure. These were
characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Nuclear
Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESIMS).
Both oligosaccharides have structure of b-D-galactopyranose(Galp)4S-(1→4)-α-D-AnGalp2S-(1→3)-b-D-galactopyranose Galp)4S-(1→4)-α-D-AnGalp2S-(1→3). Application of the resulting oligosaccharides on protein
delivery system in terms of encapsulation efficiency was performed.


Abstract Research into sport coaches' learning previously relied on descriptive learning histories and retrospective coach perceptions that revealed little detail about the processes and outcomes involved. More recent nuanced approaches have started to evidence the idea that coaches actively integrate multiple experiences as interconnected modes of learning, influenced by pre-existing biography. A learning theory specific to coaching that can explain how practitioners dynamically interact with learning environments is a necessary addition to advance understanding, inform professional development opportunities and move the field forward. This research aimed to address this gap by investigating the learning of 25 English youth soccer coaches. Longitudinal semi-structured interviews and video stimulated recall interviews were used to elicit knowledge use in practice, associated sources of learning, and moderating factors. Data were organised and analysed using techniques and principles of grounded theory. A substantive grounded theory is presented to explain the filter process whereby individuals adopted, adapted and rejected elements of their experiences, leading to uneven learning in apparently similar situations. The findings suggest that coaches actively constructed and experimented with knowledge for use in socially situated coaching practice, through double-loop individual and contextual level filters, and 'reflective conversations'. Questions of 'what works', how and for whom in this context of coach learning are addressed for the first time. Elucidation of these processes can enhance professional learning and practice through advancing evidence based 'theory in context.' Video abstract Read the transcript Watch the video on Vimeo


Clinical application of lasers for the treatment of periodontal disease has continued to expand since their introduction for this purpose in the early 1990s1-9 but remains controversial.10-18 The primary purpose of this statement is to provide an evidence-based perspective on three of the purported benefits of using lasers in the nonsurgical treatment of periodontal disease, i.e., sulcular and/or pocket debridement (a.k.a. laser curettage), reduction of subgingival bacterial loads (a.k.a. pocket sterilization), and scaling and root planing (SRP).


The system of educational administration discipline can be taken as putting into a structure the concepts, theories and methods of educational administration. The system of educational administration in China can be classified into the following systems: the system of the elements which influences the quality and effectiveness of educational administration; the system of the educational administrative experience that the administrators have had; the system of the portions which the educational administration consists of; the system of the functions or roles that the educational administration plays; the system of the practical procedures of educational administration; the system of the open system which takes educational institutions as social systems and the system of the comprehensive educational administration. By synthesizing the contents of these systems, this paper advances an integrated system of the discipline of educational administration which consists of the following five parts: the foundations of educational administration, the educational organizing; the educational resources management; the process of educational administration and the environments of educational administration.


In this article, the results of a research inquiring about representations that primary education English teachers from some public institutions in the city of Medellin, Colombia have about ideal of comprehensive education are presented. From a qualitative research approach, an open-ended question survey was implemented to 19 teachers and subsequently an in-depth interview was carried out to 5 teachers. Information collected was subject to the technique of critical discourse analysis by Teun Van Dijk (2003). The main findings revealed that these representations show five main thematic areas: (1) whole education for a multidimensional human being; (2) education of a valuable human being; (3) whole education, foreign language learning and different culture approaching; (4) whole education, foreign language teaching and autonomous people; (5) whole education and communicative competence in foreign language. It was found that teachers' representations about whole education have a marked ethic and moral, values and rules emphasis—and that it, being analyzed from foreign language teaching, must not be limited to basic linguistic structures usage in daily and immediate communication contexts.


The heart rate stationary was studied by tachographic of 24 Holter analysis in 15 normal subjects and in 13 recipient subjects that were heart transplanted at least 5 years and that, at the time of our research, presented a very good post-operative course. To test the stationary heart rate we performed a scanning of Holter in qualified strips of four beats in which the three consecutive intervals demonstrate a constant acceleration or deceleration sequential variations of tachographic values. The results obtained demonstrated that in normal and transplanted subjects stationary and non stationary strips are evident. Both in normal and in transplanted subjects non-stationary strips are prevalent, although in different ways: in normal subjects the stationary and non-stationary ratio is 1:1.40; in transplanted subjects the ratio is 1:1.68. Non-stationary strips, that in the cartesian plane do not demonstrate any directional variation, in normal subjects are, on average, higher than in transplanted subjects. The same phenomenon is available for the strips with only one variation. The strips with three consecutive variations are much more evident (more 50%) in transplanted subjects. These strips are also more numerous compared to the sum of all the other strips with a single variation. The statistical analysis demonstrates that the difference between the normal and the transplanted subjects is significative. Our data can suggest an absent autonomic nervous system regulation and can confirm the results we obtained in these patients using a phase space analysis of the same Holter recording.


We have performed systematic density functional calculations and evaluated thermoelectric properties, Seebeck coefficient and anomalous Nernst coefficient of half-Heusler comounds CoMSb(M=Sc, Ti, V, Cr, and Mn). The carrier concentration dependence of Seebeck coefficients in nonmagnetic compounds are in good agreement with experimental values. We found that the half-metallic ferromagnetic CoMnSb show large anomalous Nernst effect originating from Berry curvature at the Brillouin zone boundary. These results help to understanding for the mechanism of large anomalous Nernst coefficient and give us a clue to design high performance magnetic thermoelectric materials.


Although β1-blockers impressively reduce mortality in chronic heart failure (CHF), there are concerns about negative inotropic effects and worsening of hemodynamics in acute decompensated heart failure. May receptor theory dispel these concerns and confirm clinical practice to use β1-blockers? In CHF, concentrations of catecholamines at the β1-adrenoceptors usually exceed their dissociation constants (KDs). The homodimeric β1-adrenoceptors have a receptor reserve and display negative cooperativity. We considered the binomial distribution of occupied receptor dimers with respect to the interaction of an exogenous β1-blocker and elevated endogenous agonist concentrations > [KDs], corresponding to an elevated sympathetic tone. Modeling based on binomial distribution suggests that despite the presence of a low concentration of the antagonist, the activation of the dimer receptors is higher than that in its absence. Obviously, the antagonist improves the ratio of the dimer receptors with only single agonist activation compared with the dimer receptors with double activation. This leads to increased positive inotropic effects of endogenous catecholamines due to a β1-blocker. To understand the positive inotropic sequels of β1-blockers in CHF is clinically relevant. This article may help to eliminate the skepticism of clinicians about the use of β1-blockers because of their supposed negative inotropic effect, since, on the contrary, a positive inotropic effect can be expected for receptor-theoretical reasons.


CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite films for photovoltaics (PV) have been deposited by vapor deposition and solution processing. Spectroscopic ellipsometry from the near infrared to ultraviolet (0.75 to 5.89 eV) is used to study the optical response of CH3NH3PM3. In-situ spectroscopic ellipsometry is applied to monitor CH3NH3PM3 undergoing degradation in laboratory ambient conditions to study the degradation / decomposition of CH3NH3PbI3 and evolution of unreacted and phase segregated materials (PbI2, CH3NH3I) found at surface / ambient and substrate / film interfaces.


Background: Gliomas are the most common form of malignant primary brain tumors in adults with an annual incidence of approximately five per 100,000 people. In Egypt, primary Central Nervous System (CNS) neoplasms are rare, constituting about 1-2% of all human neoplasms, with High Grade Gliomas (HGGs) being the most common type. The study aims to discover the histo-pathological aspect of HGGs, risk factors, and descriptive analysis of treatment received in Clinical oncology department affiliated with Alexandria University Hospital. Methods: Data were collected and analyzed for four hundred and thirty four patients with histologically proven HGGs in the period between 2003 and 2012. Results: Age of patients ranged from 21 to 83 years. Most cases (80.4%) were Glioblastoma Multiform (GBM), followed by Anaplastic Astrocytoma (AA) reaching14.3% of patients. In this study, 45.4% of patients had karnofsky performance score (KPS) more than 60%. Only 2.5% of patients underwent gross total resection (GTR), 25.6% underwent Subtotal Resection (STR) and 50% of patients underwent excisional biopsy. Patients received radiotherapy were 355 about 81.8% of patients with HGGs (80.2% of them received Radiotherapy (RT) only, 11.8% received RT followed by Adjuvant Chemotherapy (ACT), 4% received Concomitant Chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) and 4% received CCRT followed by ACT), 16.6% of patients received only best supportive care (BSC) and 2.3% did not receive treatment. The median Overall Survival (OS) was 10, 13, 19 and 15 months for patients received RT only, CCRT, CCRT followed by ACT and RT followed by ACT, respectively. Conclusion: Delayed presentation and inadequate GTR together with unavailability of TMZ could affect outcome in limited resource countries.


The heavy metal mercury (Hg) is known to have immunomodulatory properties affecting lymphocyte signal transduction, death receptor signaling and autoimmunity. We tested the hypothesis that Hg exposure modulates B-cell activation in response to BCR stimulation. To test this hypothesis; WEHI-231 immature B-cells, were stimulated with Goat-anti-IgM in the presence or absence of 5 μM HgCl2. We found a significant reduction in p-ERK1/2 in the presence of Hg by Western blot. However, it is unclear whether the reduction of BCR dependent pERK is a consequence of Hg modulating the amount of p-ERK1/2 in each cell, or whether Hg is reducing the number of responding cells in the population. Single cell proteomics were employed to address whether pERK1/2 is modulated on a per-cell-basis using a ERK phosphospecific fluorochrome labeled antibody. We found nearly 80% of the WEHI cells, possess pERK1/2 by 5 minutes after stimulation. Interestingly, pre-incubation with HgCl2 causes a 25% decrease in the percentage of responding cells after IgM stimulation. Moreover, the MFI of pERK1/2, is reduced by more than 30% following exposure to HgCl2. Additional studies in primary mouse B-cells have found Hg also modulates phosphorylation of the proximal BCR kinase Syk. Taken together these data suggest Hg modulates BCR signal strength which may have profound implications for establishment of self-tolerance within the B-cell repertoire.


Kinetoplast DNA (kDNA), the mitochondrial DNA in kinetoplastids, is a network containing several thousand topologically interlocked minicircles. We investigated cell cycle–dependent changes in the localization of kDNA replication enzymes by combining immunofluorescence with either hydroxyurea synchronization or incorporation of fluorescein–dUTP into the endogenous gaps of newly replicated minicircles. We found that while both topoisomerase II and DNA polymerase β colocalize in two antipodal sites flanking the kDNA during replication, they behave differently at other times. Polymerase β is not detected by immunofluorescence either during cell division or G1, but is abruptly detected in the antipodal sites at the onset of kDNA replication. In contrast, topoisomerase II is localized to sites at the network edge at all cell cycle stages; usually it is found in two antipodal sites, but during cytokinesis each postscission daughter network is associated with only a single site. During the subsequent G1, topoisomerase accumulates in a second localization site, forming the characteristic antipodal pattern. These data suggest that these sites at the network periphery are permanent components of the mitochondrial architecture that function in kDNA replication.


Results of Thyroid function tests of 671 individuals have been studied. The analysis shows that T3 and T4 hormone tests are not efficacious as compared to TSH test (p < 0.001) and in diagnosing Hypothyroid cases T3 and T4 lead to almost same results while in detecting Hyperthyroid cases T3 is superior to T4 (p < 0.01).