Abstract. For most passerines, survival and behavior during the postfledging period are poorly known, even though these population characteristics are potentially important to demography and conservation. In 2013–2014 radiotelemetry was used to measure survival, movements, and habitat use of juvenile Veeries (Catharus fuscescens) during the postfledgingdependent period in a landscape dominated by mature forest in northeastern Pennsylvania. In total I tracked 29 juvenile Veeries and conducted habitat sampling at sites used by fledglings and at associated random sites. Survival during the first 21 d postfledging was high (0.78), with most mortalities occurring during the first 7 d, and all deaths attributed to predation. Fledglings moved gradually away from their nests as they aged, averaging 333±62 m by 19–21 d. However, there was much variation in movement patterns among individuals, perhaps reflecting differences in spatial distribution of important microhabitats or differences in timing of postfledging dispersal. Like fledglings of many other species of forest passerines, Veery fledglings preferred microhabitats with dense woody understory vegetation: compared to random sites, sites used by fledglings had, on average, greater woody ground cover, midstory cover, and sapling density but had lower density of eastern hemlock trees. However, unlike many other forest passerine species, Veery fledglings did not exhibit broad shifts to other nonnesting habitat types. These results provide the first detailed study of postfledging survival and behavior of the Veery and add generally to our understanding of postfledging ecology in forest passerines.


Abstract Objective and importance Charcot−Marie−Tooth (CMT) disease is the most common hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy and can result in profound sensori-neural hearing loss with deficiency in speech perception out of proportion to that which would be expected if the loss was cochlear in origin. This study investigates whether the reintroduction of auditory synchrony by means of cochlear implantation will improve speech perception in those with dys-synchrony related to impairment of temporal processing abilities secondary to CMT. Clinical presentation A 67-year-old male presented with a gradual but significant decrease in his hearing as part of a slowly progressing demyelinating peripheral neuropathy. On open-set speech discrimination he scored 0%. Intervention A Med-el FlexSOFT cochlear implant (CI) was fully inserted into the left ear with no surgical complications. The CI speech processor was fitted 1 month post-implantation and standardized speech assessments conducted at 1 week, 3 months, 9 months, and 21 months following initial fitting, gave open-set speech discrimination scores of 0, 0, 53, and 54%, respectively. Conclusion This report demonstrates that cochlear implantation is an option to rehabilitate severe-to-profound hearing loss in adults with auditory dys-synchrony secondary to CMT disease. Progress post-implantation is likely to be slower than for the average CI user.


In this paper, we propose an interactive decision making method for random fuzzy multiobjective linear programming problems (RFMOLP) through a probability maximization model. In the proposed method, it is assumed that the decision maker has fuzzy goals for not only permissible objective levels of a probability maximization model but also the corresponding distribution function values. Using the fuzzy decision, such two kinds of membership functions are integrated. In the integrated membership space, a satisfactory solution is obtained from among a Pareto optimal solution set through the interaction with the decision maker.


This paper presents a new means for collecting fiber Bragg grating (FBG) data during drop tower measurements used to assess damage to composite structures. The high repetition-rate collection process reveals transient features that cannot be resolved in quasi-static measurements. The experiments made at a repetition rate of about 500 Hz show that the detected FBG spectrum broadens for a short period of time and relaxes quickly to a narrower static state. Furthermore, this relaxation time increases dramatically as the strike count increases. The information gained by such measurements will enhance the ability to characterize and distinguish failure modes and predict remaining lifetime in composite laminate structures.


Technology has already been one of the most important aspects of classrooms. The purpose of this study is to examine the perception of learners on technology integration in English Language teaching classroom through online applications and tools. This is a quantitative study and survey design was preferred due to nature of our study. The questionnaire was taken from another research and adapted accordingly. It was conducted on 124 preparatory class students in a state university in Turkey. Students were asked to state their opinion on each item of the questionnaire based on a five-degree Likert scale. To analyze data, descriptive analysis was used by calculating frequency, mean and standard deviation of each item with the help of SPSS 23. With regard to technology, findings indicated that students favor the integration of technology into language learning environments through online tools. It was also important for them to be a part of computer-assisted activities. Overall, the findings demonstrated that students were already willing to welcome online applications and tools with open arms and their attitude towards frequent use of technology in EFL classrooms might well be related to their professional affiliation. Necessary suggestions were put forward at the end of the study.


The use of laser guide stars in astronomical adaptive optics results in elongated ShackHartmann wavefront sensor image patterns. Image correlation techniques can be used to determine local wavefront slope by correlating each sub-aperture image with its expected elongated shape, or reference image. Here, we present a technique which allows the correlation reference images to be updated while the adaptive optics loop is closed. We show that this can be done without affecting the resulting point spread functions. On-sky demonstration is reported. We compare different techniques for obtaining the reference images, and investigate performance over a wide range of adaptive optics system parameters. We find that image correlation techniques perform better than the standard centre-of-gravity algorithm and are highly suited for use with open-loop multiple object adaptive optics systems.


A novel support mechanism for a wind tunnel model is designed, built, and demonstrated on an aerodynamic platform undergoing dynamic maneuvers, tested with periodic motions up to 20 Hz. The platform is supported by a 6-DOF (six degrees of freedom) traverse that utilizes eight thin wires, each mounted to a servo motor with an in-line load cell to accurately monitor or control the platform motion and force responses. The system is designed such that simultaneous control of the servo motors effects motion within ±50 mm translations, ±15° pitch, ±9° yaw, and ±8° roll at lower frequencies. The traverse tracks a desired trajectory and resolves the induced forces on the platform at 1 kHz. The effected motion of the platform is measured at 0.6 kHz with a motion capture system, which utilizes six near-infrared (NIR) cameras for full spatial and temporal resolution of the platform motion, which is used for feedback control. The traverse allows different platform model geometries to be tested, and the present work demonstrates its capabilities on an axisymmetric bluff body. Programmable timed outputs are synchronized relative to the model motion and can be used for triggering external systems and processes. In the present study, particle image velocimetry (PIV) is used to characterize the realized wakes of the platform undergoing canonical motions that are effected by this new wind tunnel traverse.


To study the electronic interactions in donor-acceptor (D-A) ensembles, D and A fragments are coupled in a single molecule. Specifically, a tetrathiafulvalene (TTF)-fused dipyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c]phenazine (dppz) compound having inherent redox centers has been synthesized and structurally characterized. Its electronic absorption, fluorescence emission, photoinduced intramolecular charge transfer, and electrochemical behavior have been investigated. The observed electronic properties are explained on the basis of density functional theory.


This report describes a mixed germ cell tumor that underwent dramatic size changes. A 12-year-old boy presented to our hospital with a headache that had persisted for two months. Initial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a pineal tumor and hydrocephalus. The patient required external ventricular drainage and underwent two endoscopic biopsies. His evaluation involved a total of nine computed tomography (CT) scans prior to the second biopsy;the tumor size had decreased before the second endoscopic biopsy. The tumor consisted of both a germinoma and a teratoma component. The patient was treated with three courses of carboplatin-etoposide (CBDCA-VP) chemotherapy and whole-ventricle radiotherapy (32.1 Gy). However, during the adjuvant therapy, the tumor size increased, necessitating total tumor resection. We speculate that the tumor's initial size reduction was caused by leakage of the cyst component and exposure to the brain CT irradiation. The tumor's subsequent increase in size was due to the recollection of the cystic components and intracranial growing teratoma syndrome (iGTS). Therefore, frequent brain CTs and angiography should be avoided before definitive pathological diagnosis is achieved. Further, the tumor size should be considered, with surgical resection being performed at the optimal time.


At 32 weeks of gestation, a male fetus with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries developed hydrops fetalis caused by a combination of mitral valve regurgitation and tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR). We performed a pulmonary artery banding (PAB) at 108 days old for gradually progressing TR, after confirming that a balloon dilatation test in the main pulmonary artery reduced TR. As the patient grew, the PAB became tighter and systolic blood pressure in the morphological left ventricle increased. At present, the patient is waiting for a double switch operation.


Out of the all newly diagnosed lung cancers, non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) comprises 80-85%. When treating advanced stages of the disease, conventional therapy shows poor results, which implies that there is a need for new drugs that will improve the response to current therapy. Metformin, drug used to threat Diabetes mellitus showed promising results in preclinical and retrospective clinical studies. We have analyzed prospective clinical trials investigating the combined effect of conventional therapy and metformin in treating lung cancer, as well as preclinical studies investigating its possible mechanisms of action published in PubMed database in the last 10 years. Several studies indicated that combination therapy with metformin led to the improvement in categories like overal survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). However, the number of studies is limited and is characterized by a low number of subjects, as well as by a reduced compliance in subjects using metformin. Preclinical studies suggest cytotoxic effects of metformin, activation of apoptosis, as well as synergistic effect with chemotherapeutics, radiotherapy and biological agents used. The relevance of determined results is questionable, taking into account high metformin concentrations used in vitro. Based on the clinical studies published in the last ten years, there is insufficient data to conclude whether metformin improves prognostic factors in comparison to the conventional therapy. It is also not clear which mechanisms are responsible for possible beneficial effects of metformin. Future preclinical studies thus have to be better designed in order to increase their translational potential, while clinical studies have to be better controlled with improved selection and higher number of subjects enrolled.


ABSTRACT This study examines whether the quality of a firm's internal information environment influences its tax-motivated income shifting activities. Although income shifting is an important tax-planning strategy, evidence regarding its determinants is limited. We find that higher internal information quality (IIQ) is associated with greater tax-motivated income shifting, which suggests that higher IIQ enables managers to better identify and execute income shifting opportunities. We find that the influence of IIQ on tax-motivated income shifting varies with firm characteristics. Specifically, we find that higher IIQ is associated with tax-motivated income shifting for firms with greater uncertainty and greater coordination needs. Overall, these results suggest that the improved information obtained through higher-quality internal information environments allows managers to increase tax-motivated income shifting.


With a long history inherited through centuries of business competition, Chinese time-honored brands are a symbol of traditional Chinese culture. As a witness of history, every old Chinese brand is a brand legend, but they arenow gradually declining. According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of Commerce of China, only 160 out ofover 1,600 "Chinese time-honored brands"have beenprofitable since 1993. Many time-honored brands are facing the scourge of brand decline or even extinction, with the remaining brands dying at a rate of 5% per year. In recent years, cosmetics have gradually become an inseparable part of people's daily lives with the increasing income of Chinese residents. China's broad market prospects have attracted many well-known international brands, while many well-known old Chinese brands have been eclipsed in this increasingly fierce market competition. As the saying goes, "An outsider, however strong, should always respects the locals," foreign brands have overcome the inherent competitive disadvantages of systems, cultural regions, and the like. In contrast, domestic brands have continued to decline under local advantages,the reasons of which are worth discussing. This article uses Pechoin as an example to explore the development strategies of traditional old brands in the new era and explores the causes of the brand's resurgence in terms of brand innovation and marketing strategy. Its current problems are discussed to provide a way for other traditional brands to rejuvenate.


Background: There is a paucity of data regarding the role of side branch (SB) predilation during the provisional stenting of bifurcation lesions. Objectives: The present study aimed to assess the effects of SB predilation on the outcomes of true bifurcation interventions. Patients and Methods: Sixty patients with true bifurcation lesions according to the Medina classification were included in the study and randomly assigned to receive SB predilation before stenting the main branch (n = 30) or no predilation as the control group (n = 30). Results: There was a trend toward the higher occurrence of dissection in the predilated ostial lesions of the SB compared to the non- predilated group (16.7% vs. 0, P = 0.07). Performance of the SB predilation was not associated with improved flow of the SB or fewer degrees of ostial stenosis after stenting the main branch, the need to rewire, rewiring time, or the rate of use of the final kissing balloon dilation and double stents procedures. Conclusions: Routine predilation of the SB in provisional stenting of true bifurcation lesions seems to be ineffective and might be associated with some undesirable consequences. Still, there are some complex ostial lesions of the SB which could benefit from predilation.


INTRODUCTION
A right aortic arch and agenesis of internal carotid artery (ICA) are both extremely rare vascular devel- opment anomalies. Etiology of the both anomalies might be associated with the abnormal regression of the dorsal aorta. Most cases of ICA are asymptomatic due to sufficient collateral circulation and it is usually an incident finding on head and neck imaging by color Doppler ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). ICA agenesis has a significant association - 24-67% - with intracranial aneurysms and their early detection can spare the patient serious complications.

CLINICAL CASE
A 28-year-old male had a single episode of hypertension that motivated the realization of several tests. During the investigation he was submitted to a duplex ultrasonography that revealed a diffuse narrowing of the left common carotid artery (CCA), with a markedly decrease in the peak systolic velocity and the absence of the left internal carotid artery (ICA) was suspected. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) demonstrated no abnormalities, such as cerebral infarc- tion or intracranial vascular malformations, but confirmed a right-sided aortic-arch, with anomalous origin of the left subcla- vian artery with a common origin of both CCAs and the absence of the left ICA. Examination of the head CT in bone window demonstrated an absence of the left internal carotid canal.

CONCLUSION
This clinical case emphasizes the importance of recognizing this condition due to the associated hemody- namic changes and in order to discover and evaluate other additional vascular malformations (aneurysms, collateral channels) and their life threatening potential risks (subarachnoid hemorrhage or ischemia). Also, it has a special importance in case of planning carotid or trans-sphenoidal hypophyseal surgery. To our knowledge, only 8 cases have been reported right aortic arch associated with agenesis of the left internal carotid artery.


The paper provides further development of the methodology of GDP growth rates decomposition, adapted for the case of Russia. It proposes the calculation of indicators of structural unemployment NAWRU and total factor productivity for the Russian economy. The paper offers estimates of structural, foreign trade and market components of GDP growth rates for various macroeconomic scenarios for 2018—2020. The sum of the components of the business cycle and random shocks is expected to be the main source of Russian GDP growth in 2018—2020, which together with the renewal of investment in 2017 may indicate the beginning of a new cycle of economic growth in Russia. Within the framework of the considered macroeconomic scenarios an expected contribution of the terms of trade component will be of an order of –1 p. p. of the yearly GDP growth rates in 2018—2020. In all major macroeconomic scenarios the structural component of GDP growth rates is expected to continue to decelerate in 2018—2020. The results suggest that the delay of structural reforms is inadvisable in order to create the prerequisites to achieve economic growth rates equal to or more than the world average.


The aim of this study was to investigate the difference between sexes after 8 weeks of aerobic exercise training on cardiovascular autonomic modulation and oxidative stress. Wistar rats were distributed into (n = 8/group): sedentary male (SM), trained male (TM), sedentary female (SF) and trained female (TF). Arterial pressure (AP) signals were directly recorded. Cardiovascular autonomic modulation was evaluated by spectral analysis. Aerobic exercise training was performed on treadmill (5 days/wk; 8 wks). Oxidative stress was evaluated on cardiac and renal tissues. Both trained groups presented bradycardia. Exercise training increased heart rate variability (VAR-PI) and decreased cardiac sympathovagal balance in both sexes. Although, no differences observed in AP, the female groups showed a lower vascular sympathetic modulation than the male groups. There was a positive correlation between vascular sympathetic modulation and renal membrane lipid peroxidation (LPO) (r = 0.6, p < 0.01). LPO in cardiac tissue was reduced in the TM, SF and TF groups when compared to the SM group and it was correlated with cardiac sympathetic modulation (r = 0.6, p < 0.01). Only the TF group presented AP variability and renal LPO decreased and cardiac glutathione redox balance (GSH/GSSG) improved when compared to the other groups. Moreover, the trained females showed greater improvement on VAR-PI (~ 1.8 times), on cardiac and renal antioxidant capacity (TRAP: ~2,1 and ~ 1.5 times, respectively), and on cardiac GSSG (~ 2.8 times) than the trained males. In conclusion, female rats showed additional aerobic exercise training induced-cardiovascular autonomic modulation and target organs oxidative stress profile improvement than male rats.


Previous research (e.g., S. A. Gelman & E. M. Markman, 1986; A. Gopnik & D. M. Sobel, 2000) suggests that children can use category labels to make inductive inferences about nonobvious causal properties of objects. However, such inductive generalizations can fail to predict objects' causal properties when (a) the property being projected varies within the category, (b) the category is arbitrary (e.g., things smaller than a bread box), or (c) the property being projected is due to an exogenous intervention rather than intrinsic to the object kind. In 4 studies, the authors showed that preschoolers (M = 48 months; range = 42-57 months) were sensitive to these constraints on induction and selectively engaged in exploration when evidence about objects' causal properties conflicted with inductive generalizations from the objects' kind to their causal powers. This suggests that the exploratory actions children generate in free play could support causal learning.


Conception of total cardio-vascular risk plays important role in defining tactics of arterial hypertension therapy according to the new European recommendations. Choice of antihypertensive therapy is based on meta-analysis of large clinical studies with hard end points. It is recommended to use five classes of antihypertensive drugs in monoand combined therapy. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors keep important place in the therapy of arterial hypertension accompanying with risk factors and associated diseases. Enalapril is one of the widely used ACE inhibitors, its efficiency was proved in prospective clinical studies. In high risk patients monotherapy with Enam (enalapril. Dr. Reddy's) decreases blood pressure and leads to positive metabolic changes. This results in significant risk reduction of cardio-vascular complications. Rational Pharmacother. Card. 2007; 3: 72-76


The EPR spin-trapping technique has been applied extensively to the detection of organic peroxyl radicals in biological systems. The most widely used spin trap is 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO), of which adducts displaying EPR signals with a(N)
∼1.43 mT, a(β-H)
∼1.17 mT and a(γ-H)
∼0.12 mT have been routinely assigned to trapped peroxyl radicals. Recently, however, it has been shown that such signals are from alkoxyl radical adducts, generated during the decomposition of peroxyl radical adducts. In the present investigation, we have used the CeIV–tert-butyl hydroperoxide redox couple as an efficient means of generating peroxyl radicals (tBuOO˙) in a fast-flow, dielectric mixing-resonator. This allowed the direct, EPR observation of tBuOO˙ radicals, as well as a short-lived radical adduct upon the inclusion of DMPO. Although the hyperfine coupling constants for this adduct were essentially indistinguishable from those of the more stable methoxyl radical adduct (DMPO–˙OMe), it is reasoned on kinetic and chemical grounds why this species is believed to be the tert-butylperoxyl radical adduct (DMPO–˙OOtBu). The rate constant for tBuOO˙ spin trapping was estimated to be ca. 30 M−1 s−1, which is considerably lower than the value of > 103 M−1 s−1 proposed recently by Honeywill and Mile (J. Chem. Soc., Perkin Trans. 2, 2002, 569), who concluded that alkylperoxyl radicals form only diamagnetic adducts, via their multiple addition to DMPO. Complementary spin-trapping experiments in a static system resulted in detection of the methoxyl and tert-butoxyl radical adducts of DMPO (generated via DMPO–˙OOtBu decomposition), as well as the three-electron oxidation product 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrrolidone-2-oxyl. These findings demonstrate that the chemistry underlying the generation of the radical adducts detected by spin trapping in peroxyl-radical generating systems must be interpreted with extreme caution. Furthermore, through the direct observation of the DMPO–˙OOtBu adduct under continuous-flow conditions, this work gives support to earlier suggestions that DMPO peroxyl radical adducts are formed, but are too unstable to be detected under the conditions employed in typical spin-trapping studies.


The climatic impact of increased Arctic sea ice loss has received growing attention in the last years. However, little focus has been set on the role of sea ice thickness, although it strongly determines surface heat fluxes. Here ensembles of simulations using the EC‐Earth atmospheric model (Integrated Forecast System) are performed and analyzed to quantify the atmospheric impacts of Arctic sea ice thickness change since 1982 as revealed by the sea ice model assimilation Global Ice‐Ocean Modeling and Assimilation System. Results show that the recent sea ice thinning has significantly affected the Arctic climate, while remote atmospheric responses are less pronounced owing to a high internal atmospheric variability. Locally, the sea ice thinning results in enhancement of near‐surface warming of about 1°C per decade in winter, which is most pronounced over marginal sea ice areas with thin ice. This leads to an increase of the Arctic amplification factor by 37%.


This article concerns maximum-likelihood estimation for discrete time homogeneous nonparametric semi-Markov models with finite state space. In particular, we present the exact maximum-likelihood estimator of the semi-Markov kernel which governs the evolution of the semi-Markov chain (SMC). We study its asymptotic properties in the following cases: (i) for one observed trajectory, when the length of the observation tends to infinity, and (ii) for parallel observations of independent copies of an SMC censored at a fixed time, when the number of copies tends to infinity. In both cases, we obtain strong consistency, asymptotic normality, and asymptotic efficiency for every finite dimensional vector of this estimator. Finally, we obtain explicit forms for the covariance matrices of the asymptotic distributions.


Abstract In this article we present a local hidden variables model for all experiments involving photon pairs produced in parametric down conversion, based on the Wigner representation of the radiation field. A modification of the standard quantum theory of detection is made in order to give a local realistic explanation of the counting rates in photodetectors. This model involves the existence of a real zeropoint field, such that the vacumm level of radiation lies below the threshold of the detectors.


This thesis comprises five chapters in total, starting with a general introduction that raises the issue of obesity as well as a brief description of the basic research questions of the dissertation, three main chapters involving the analysis of the Body Mass Index (BMI) with a view to investigate the social, economic, cultural and environmental factors driving and sustaining health disparities in obesity in Spain and a chapter of concluding remarks stemming from the analysis made. In particular, the second chapter examines the evolution of obesity as well as the incomerelated inequality in obesity over the past two decades in Spain, splitting by gender. It also evaluates income inequality in obesity (measured by distribution sensitive measures) by breaking it down to its main contributors. The results indicate that obesity prevalence rates have been increasing over the last twenty years among the Spanish population, as in most developed countries, however income-related inequality in obesity status, depth and severity has a declining trend mainly among women. These findings may imply a switch in the basic determinants of obesity across the income distribution; that is, BMI status might not be linked only to individual attributes, but changes in environmental influences across income groups may be important as well. This is inextricably linked to the third chapter, where we seek to understand the basic determinants of individual body weight and obesity risk, by concurrently examining individual and regional characteristics within a multilevel approach, to conclude that not only personal attributes but also environmental characteristics (i.e., criminality and lack of green spaces) affect positively individual and women s BMI and obesity. Driven by the spatial pattern of BMI that is observed in this third chapter, according to which southern regions of Spain tend to exhibit higher BMI levels than the northern ones, we proceed with chapter four. In this fourth chapter we aim to contribute to the North to South health divide in Spain, using decomposition techniques to analyse the main contributors of the BMI gap between the North and the South of Spain. Our findings indicate that North to South differences are significant only for women and that the largest share of this gap is attributed to differences in endowments (mainly education) to the detriment of women living in the South.


The principle point of this task is to build up an Intelligent Monitoring System used to screen the Road Surface Condition using Fog Computing that increases the road safety. Multiple solutions have been proposed which make use of mobile sensing, more specifically contemporary applications and architectures that are used in both crowd sensing and vehicle based sensing. Nonetheless, these initiatives have not been without challenges that range from mobility support, location awareness, low latency as well as geo-distribution. As a result, a new term has been coined for this novel paradigm, called, fog computing.


A new wave simulation technique for the elastic wave equation in the frequency domain based on a no overlapping do-main decomposition algorithm is investigated. The boundary conditions and the finite difference discrimination of the elastic wave equation are derived. The algorithm of no overlapping domain decomposition method is given. The method solves the elastic wave equation by iteratively solving sub problems defined on smaller sub domains. Numerical computations both for homogeneous and inhomogeneous media show the effectiveness of the proposed method. This method can be used in the full-waveform.


Upstream of the last barrage of the river Rhine at Iffezheim sedimentation takes place at a rate of about 150,000 m3 per year leading to severe problems related to flood protection. In the past this material was dredged periodically and was used for the extension of a mole in the upstream part of the barrage. Because of the great amount of material to be dredged and the associated ecological aspects, this is a matter of great economic concern. However, as the measures taken in the past are not applicable any longer and the recurrent accumulations considerably reduce the level of flood protection the responsible authority is urgently looking for an appropriate and environmentally compatible sediment management strategy. The most obvious way to decrease costs for maintenance dredging, transportation and disposal is to reduce the amount of sediments to be dredged, i.e. to prevent the particles transported in suspension from settling above the barrage at that high rate. This may be achieved by changing the hydrodynamic situation close to the barrage e.g. by the installation of flow guiding structures or an appropriate operation of the weir. Periodically flushing of artificially resuspended sediments may support the aspired objective. In this paper results from a two-dimensional hydrodynamic model and from a two-dimensional morphodynamic model are presented to describe the processes close to the barrage. Flow structures at different discharges are analysed and are compared to results from field measurements, in particular with respect to the area of sedimentation. The effectiveness of a flow guiding structure to minimize sedimentation is demonstrated and suggestions are made for further investigations.


It is increasingly recognized that intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with an increased risk of metabolic disorders in late life. Previous studies showed that mice exposed to LPS in late gestation induced fetal IUGR. The present study investigated the effects of maternal LPS exposure during pregnancy on metabolic phenotypes in female adult offspring. Pregnant mice were intraperitoneally injected with LPS (50 µg/kg) daily from gestational day (GD)15 to GD17. After lactation, female pups were fed with standard-chow diets (SD) or high-fat diets (HFD). Glucose tolerance test (GTT) and insulin tolerance test (ITT) were assessed 8 and 12 weeks after diet intervention. Hepatic triglyceride content was examined 12 weeks after diet intervention. As expected, maternal LPS exposure during pregnancy resulted in fetal IUGR. Although there was an increasing trend on fat mass in female offspring whose dams were exposed to LPS during pregnancy, maternal LPS exposure during pregnancy did not elevate the levels of fasting blood glucose and serum insulin and hepatic triglyceride content in female adult offspring. Moreover, maternal LPS exposure during pregnancy did not alter insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue and liver in female adult offspring. Further analysis showed that maternal LPS exposure during pregnancy did not exacerbate HFD-induced glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in female adult offspring. In addition, maternal LPS exposure during pregnancy did not aggravate HFD-induced elevation of hepatic triglyceride content in female adult offspring. In conclusion, LPS-induced IUGR does not alter metabolic phenotypes in adulthood.


Coronary perforation is a rare but serious complication of percutaneous coronary intervention. In our case, kissing balloon technique caused the perforation. We took care of balloon diameter and inflation pressure, but we did not consider that the proximal lumen could take elliptical rather than circular shape. Then perforation occurred at the proximal side of the kissing balloon technique. Fortunately, we could achieve hemostasis successfully by 90 seconds perfusion balloon inflation. You must consider not only balloon diameter and inflation pressure but also balloon form as an important safety factor for the kissing balloon technique on the left main trunk.


Twenty-five naevi, 53 primary melanomas, 36 melanoma metastases were stained immunohistochemically for the presence of Bcl2, Bax and Ki-67 antigen in order to define the relation between apoptosis regulators and proliferative activity. Additionally, ploidy status and S-phase were measured. Bax demonstrated a tendency to increase and Bcl2 was decreasing along with melanoma progression. In the group of euploid cases Bcl2 showed a strong significant correlation with Bax expression (p = 0.0001) and both Bcl2 and Bax correlated with Ki-67 expression and S-phase. In the group of aneuploid cases only the correlation Bcl2-Ki-67 was preserved. Others did not reach the level of statistical significance.


The use of medical images in digital format is becoming an increasingly common practice for most medical specialities. Digital images can serve different purposes, such as developing multimedia educational material for computer-assisted education of doctors, students or patients. Integrated audio-visual resources and the possibilities users have to interact with the information they receive makes multimedia an ideal instrument through which to disseminate information and knowledge. The objective of this project was to provide a comprehensive multimedia educational material (M.E.M.) for the information of orthodontic patients about essential aspects of orthodontic treatment. An animation called  "OrthoGuide" has been developed. It provides a friendly interface for a multimedia educational material called  "Orthodontics – A Patient's Guide", containing essential information about orthodontic treatment, as well as other guiding information for orthodontic patients.


Phytoremediation is a non destructive and cost effective in situ technology that can be used for the cleanup of contaminated soils. The potential for this technology in the tropics is high due to the prevailing climatic conditions which favour plant growth and stimulates microbial activity. The present study investigated the use of use of 4 common weeds in Nigeria - (Phyllanthus amarus Schum and Thonn.,Hyptis spicigera Lam., Sida rhombifolia L. and Mariscus alternifolius Vahl.) for their reaction to spent lubricating oil contamination and subsequent reduction of the contaminant by the plants. Shoot length, leaf area and root length and chlorophyll contents were determined for these plants grown in spent lubricating oil contaminated soils. The residual hydrocarbons were extracted from soil and percentage degradation was gravimetrically determined for the total hydrocarbons and saturated hydrocarbons present in the spent lubricating oil. The contamination caused a reduction in the shoot length, leaf area, root length and total chlorophyll content of the test plants used. A statistically significant influence of spent lubricating oil on the test plants could not however be established. The degradation of total petroleum content was low as the highest degradation recorded was 35.30% for the plant P. amarus, however appreciable degradation of the saturated hydrocarbons as the plant S. rhombifolia and M. alternifolia removed over 60% of the saturated hydrocarbons present. H. spicigera recorded the least degradation for the saturated hydrocarbons (39.04%). The growth of the plants- S. rhombifoliaand M. alternifolius which caused a reduction of over 60% of the saturated hydrocarbons makes these 2 plants choice plants for the remediation of spent lubricating oil from contaminated soils. The 2 plants are unwanted plants indigenous to Nigeria and can be found growing abundantly in the wild.

 Key words: Phytoremediation, phyto-assessment, contamination, spent lubricating oil.


We examined proximity soundings at intervals of a few minutes and at distances of less than 20 km from a significant tornadic (SIGTOR) supercell that occurred on 6 May 2012 in Japan. We used a 1-dimensional variational (1DVAR) technique that combined the observations of a ground-based microwave radiometer with outputs from a numerical model. Based on the results of the 1DVAR, several supercell and tornado forecast parameters were calculated and compared with values typical of SIGTOR supercell environments in the United States. One and a half hours before the occurrence of the tornado, the value of convective available potential energy increased significantly to about 1000 J kg −1 , a value that is smaller than the typical value in the United States. Low-level vertical wind shear and some composite parameters attained maximum values at the time when the distance to the supercell was the smallest. The vertical wind shear parameters and some composite parameters indicated that the environment fell into the SIGTOR supercell category. This result shows that the thermodynamic environments became unstable before the approach of the supercell, and the low-level vertical wind shear changed locally near the supercell. 2014: Temporal variation of close-proximity soundings within a tornadic supercell environment.


This experiment has been done to evaluate productivity of crossed indigenous pigeon (Columba livia domestica) fed with mixed and broiler grower in pre-laying, after hatch (7 days) and above 7 days which is squab suckling phases in semi intensive cages. There are 5 couples of crossed indigenous pigeon used in this experiment, and each couple is placed in individual cages. The result indicate that the average egg production is 2 eggs/period (1.75±0.43), average egg weight 11 g (11.17±1.07), percentage of fertility was 99.42±0.64 and hatching rate 98.92±1.04, embryo mortality rate 1.17±0.37, interval period between two egg laying was in average 37.17±3.74 days. Each couple of pigeon need 40 g feed/day in pre-laying in 2 times daily, 240 g suckling stage for 3 times; these are based on the total feed consumption of mixed feed with broiler feed. Observed feed consumption there were significant differences between egg laying and hatching or suckling stage. Lowest squab weight was found at the stage of 1 st week 57% (39.43±19.88) and highest 91.25% (146.43±10.59) at the 3 rd week of age. Overall maternal ability for reproduction was observed 99.42±0.76 in both male and female.


This study aimed to analyze stem anatomical characteristics of Trapa natans from five Skadar Lake locations (L1 - Milovića bay, L2 – inflow of the Morača river, L3 - Kamenik, L4 - Grmožur, L5 - Lipovik) with different concentrations of Cu, Mn, Zn, Co and Pb, during the summer period of the year 2012. Cross sections of stem were made using cryotechnic procedure. For all analyzed quantitative anatomical parameters, the minimum values at the location L2 were recorded, with the presence of maximum content for all investigated metals in stem of Trapa natans. On the other hand, except for cobalt, at the location L4 the minimum concentration for all investigated metals were recorded. Plants collected from this location have the largest average values of the most measured anatomical parameters. The results of Discriminant Analysis showed that plants from different location could be clearly classified into three groups according to their stem quantitative anatomical characteristics which corresponds with heavy metals content. Our research also showed that there is no statistically significant correlation between the content of most investigated metals (Co, Cu, Pb and Zn) and the values of anatomical parameters. Statistically significant negative correlation was found between Mn content in stem and values of two anatomical characters (stem cross-sectional area and Mn content, r = - 0.88; p < 0.05; number of hypodermal cell layers and Mn content, r = - 0.90; p < 0.05).


The general area of this paper consists of the six most northeastern counties of the Texas Panhandle, namely, Hansford, Ochiltree, Lipscomb, Hutchinson, Roberts, and Hemphill counties, and the two eastern counties of the Oklahoma Panhandle, or Texas and Beaver counties. This area is part of the Western Anadarko basin, which is an asymmetrical sedimentary basin with its main axis trending northwest and southeast. This basin actively subsided during Pennsylvanian time. Gas fields have been found scattered over much of this area and these fields produce gas from rocks ranging in age from Permian to the Mississippian with Morrow (lower Pennsylvanian) sands furnishing the greatest number of reservoirs. The depths of production range from 2,600 feet to 13,600 feet. Most of thes reservoirs result from stratigraphic traps but structural anomalies control, in part, the gas accumulation in a few fields. Sandstone forms the principal reservoir rock. With rare exceptions these reservoirs have moderate to low pressures, and with few exceptions, the gas is fairly dry. Generally accepted reserves estimates for these various reservoirs range from 350 MCF per acre foot to more than 500 MCF per acre foot. Several gas fields cover large areas and comprise many individual reservoirs which are separated both horizontally and vertically; other fields consist of one, two or few wells. The separate reservoirs of the multipay fields commonly comprise sand lentils each with separate but similar physical characteristics. Dual and triple completions are not End_Page 124------------------------------ unusual in these multi-reservoir fields. The Hansford gas area of Hansford County is a large multi-reservoir field. Accumulation is controlled by lensing sandstones on the northwest flank of the Anadarko basin. Gas production occurs in rocks of various ages but the dominant number of reservoirs are Morrow in age. The Lips field in northern Roberts County has gas production from Morrow sands and is situated on a pronounced anticline. The accumulation of gas in this reservoir may be due in large part to its high structural position; however, there are other Morrow sand reservoirs in the adjacent area that are not astride this anticline. Several large interstate gas pipelines traverse the Panhandle area and furnish a ready market for gas. Present prices paid for gas average 15-17 cents per MCF. This ready market, and numerous gas discoveries of the past year, have kept the drilling activity in the western Anadarko basin at a brisk pace through the first half of 1960. Large untested areas within this basin area, combined with favorable discovery rates and access to pipelines, give indications that the accelerated pace of exploratory drilling and development drilling will continue through the remainder of this year and into 1961. End_of_Article - Last_Page 125------------


The rock-pore textural properties in unconventional fine-grained reservoirs are much more complicated than in conventional reservoirs. In fine-grained rocks, this complexity derives from very small component grain assemblages (clay and silt fractions) and very small pores (nano- to microsizes) overprinted by diagenesis. It is further compounded by the pores being developed in intergranular, grain dissolution, and organic-associated-intragranular voids. Additionally, because locally sourced hydrocarbons in unconventional reservoirs, in contrast to migrated hydrocarbons that are present in conventional reservoirs, exist within similar pore sizes as the original saturating water phase, they create geometrically complex fluid distributions. These imply that, in the context of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) logging and petrophysical interpretation of tight oil unconventional reservoirs, pore size can no longer be considered a proxy for fluid type and vice versa. This means using T2 or T1 cutoffs may give inaccurate predictions. Current industry applications of NMR T1-T2 logging have demonstrated reliable interpretation of fluid types and water saturation. However, because petrophysical controls of advanced relaxation effects (such as surface and bulk fluid relaxation properties, pore-size distribution, and wettability) are not properly understood, these applications have been limited to estimating fluid saturations and have not been applied to estimating pore sizes. We extend the application of NMR T1-T2 measurements in tight oil unconventional reservoirs to model pore-size distributions by using apparent surface relaxivities and bulk relaxation times that have been jointly estimated from poro-fluid relaxations. To test these predictions, modeled pore-size distributions are compared to rock-pore textural properties from petrographic images of core samples. Such comparison allows us to derive insights into controls of mudstone reservoir quality (RQ) in conjunction with the impact of rock fabric endmembers (e.g., matrix-supported clays, grain-supported framework, diagenetic cements, and solid organic matter) on pore-size distributions. With these assumptions in mind, it follows, based on the Kozeny-Carman formulation, that unconventional rock permeability is reliably predicted from the NMR-based pore-size distributions. Furthermore, we deduce the impact of mineral assemblages in the Herron permeability model to infer influence on rock textural properties and ultimately predict permeability in limited data environments. This paper introduces a novel approach to estimate pore-size distributions per fluid type (water and hydrocarbons) from NMR T1-T2 measurements in unconventional reservoirs. Additionally, petrophysical controls of RQ, storage, and transport properties are derived from NMR-based pore-size distributions and mineral assemblages. This enables more reliable RQ and permeability assessment than typical T2- or T1-cutoff methods.


In the present investigation was evaluated the incidence of Vibrio spp. from superficial lesions at marine mammals beached or captured by fishing net in the southwestern (RJ) and southern (RS) coastal regions of Brazil. One hundred and ninety eight swabs were collected by DEENSP, GEMARS and Ceclimar institutes and sent to Labent/IOC/FIOCruz where the samples were submitted to enrichment in Alkaline Peptone Water (APW) added with 1% and 3% of sodium chloride (NaCl) incubated at 37 o C for 18-24 hours. After the samples were streaked onto Thiossulfate Citrate Bile Sucrose Agar (TCBS), the suspected colonies were submitted to biochemical characterization. The results showed 108 strains, and Vibrio alginolyticus, V. parahaemolyticus, V. vulnificus and V. fluvialis were the main pathogens isolated. These results appoint the importance of surveillance and microbiological monitoring accomplishment and reinforcement of environmental protective programs applied to marine mammals endangered with extinction.


Planning under partial observability in nondeterministic domains is a very significant and challenging problem, which requires dealing with uncertainty together with and-or search. In this paper, we propose a new algorithm for tackling this problem, able to generate conditional plans that are guaranteed to achieve the goal despite of the uncertainty in the initial condition and the uncertain effects of actions. The proposed algorithm combines heuristic search in the and-or space of beliefs with symbolic BDD-based techniques, and is fully amenable to the use of selection functions. The experimental evaluation shows that heuristic-symbolic search may behave much better than state-of-the-art search algorithms, based on a depth-first search (DFS) style, on several domains.


Video platforms such as YouTube provide an environment where the blurred duality between content dissemination and creation facilitates the generation of social networks. Research into online violent extremist environments has often noted the prominence of video-sharing platforms as a means of distributing propaganda and cultivating social networks for purposes of recruitment. This paper draws from the study of emotion to examine three videos and associated comments that had high engagement, understood as the frequency of interactions, likes/upvotes and reposts in a given social network, in a right-wing extremist online milieu. This analysis highlights the important role emotions play in generating social connectedness and ultimately engagement and recruitment into online right-wing extremist milieus. Understanding the significance of emotions in online violent extremist video content can help to identify opportunities for moderation and/or the construction of alternative narratives.


Eukaryotic initiation factor 4B (eIF4B) belongs to the eIF4 group of factors that help in mRNA recruitment to the ribosomal preinitiation complex (PIC) in all eukaryotic organisms. eIF4B stimulates the helicase activity of eIF4A and helps in the formation of the 48S PIC by facilitating mRNA recruitment. However, there is no clear understanding of the location of eIF4B on the 40S and how eIF4B helps in the recruitment of mRNAs. In this work using cryo-electron microscopy, we show that yeast eIF4B binds to the 40S ribosomal subunit at the mRNA entry channel making contacts with ribosomal proteins uS10, uS3, and eS10 and ribosomal rRNA helix h16. The yeast eIF4B position on the 40S overlaps with the RRM domain of eIF3g indicating that the binding of eIF4B may trigger the relocation of the eIF3 b-g-i module to the subunit interface. The 40S head is in partially open conformation that may facilitate the release of eIF3j and hence aid mRNA recruitment and scanning. The structural analysis of yeast eIF4B-bound ribosomal complex provides insight into possible events during mRNA recruitment.


The LM2500 gas turbine has been used in Italian Navy (ITN) ships for more than twenty years, as the first engines were installed on board the "Lupo" class Frigates during the second half of the 1970s.The LM2500 during its service has proven to be reliable in both the "Combined Diesel or Gas" (CODOG) and the "Combined Gas and Gas" (COGAG) propulsion plant, with Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) and Fixed Pitch Propeller (FPP) as the ITN marine operational experience demonstrates. The last application was in the DURAND DE LA PENNE Class DDG with a CODOG arrangement and two shaft lines with Feathered Controllable Pitch Propellers (FCPP), produced by FINCANTIERI shipyard, which may range from a forward to an astern direction till the blades reach a flag position. This type of propeller allows a considerable drop in the absorbed power and therefore in fuel consumption and noise when using a single shaft.Based on the ITN experience with the DDG class, the use of FCPP achieves remarkable fuel savings with the gas turbine since, due to the high specific consumption of the engine at low speeds, it is cheaper to have a single shaft running.The maintenance approach to the engines installed on board ITN ships, based on the "on condition" concept, has been developed by the ITN and Fiat Avio to maximise the availability of the vessels. This covers both on-board corrective maintenance (inspection, special maintenance and / or introduction of improvements) and the substitution maintenance, with successive overhaul and application of decided updating of gas generators and power turbines.Copyright © 1998 by ASME


Serum calcium and magnesium levels were studied during neuroleptic treatment in a group of 29 chronic schizophrenic inpatients who had previously remained drug free for at least 4 weeks. The drug-free values of both electrolytes were not significantly different between patients and controls. In three patients who developed catatonic stupor during the drug-free period, calcium was significantly increased at the onset of the catatonic manifestations. Both electrolytes were significantly decreased in the whole group during treatment; the magnitude of the decrease was independent of the neuroleptic used. No correlation was found between the observed increase in prolactin and calcium changes. Patients who remained free of extra-pyramidal symptoms had a higher mean drug-free magnesium to calcium ratio compared to those who developed such symptoms. Our study provides evidence for an interconnection between serum electrolyte changes and neuroleptic drug action.


ISSUE ADDRESSED
Governments across the world use guidelines and policy to support improving the quality and nutrition in school canteens, yet little is known about what makes for a success in supporting school canteens. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing implementation of healthy school canteen policy.

METHODS
A qualitative descriptive approach using interviews with a purposive sample of Victorian schools who had successfully implemented a healthy school canteen was conducted. Twelve interviews were conducted with principals (n=4), assistant principal (n=1), canteen managers (n=5), food services manager (n=1) and canteen staff members (n=3) across six Victorian schools. Data were analysed using a content analysis approach.

RESULTS
Three key themes explained adoption of policy: Values - emphasising service over profit; Knowledge - understanding of nutrition and the policy; and Support - from within and external to the school.

CONCLUSIONS
Implementation of school canteen policy is more likely to be achieved when a school can focus on the service and educative component of the policy and where there is a shared priority for healthy eating across the entire school community. SO WHAT?: Creating a culture of service and community engagement with a healthy school canteen may increase policy implementation and should be the focus of future health promotion efforts.


This research has reviewed existing water quality management frameworks and spatial relationships between land uses and urban water quality in Kathmandu Valley. Primary data on water quality has been collected through sampling of river water from various locations within the valley. Similarly, review of secondary data and related literature from various sources, field observation, interaction and discussion with concerned stakeholders of various governments and non-governmental line agencies were carried out to perceive the existing water environment situation of the valley. All these data and study indicates that urban water quality in Kathmandu valley is not good enough to sustain healthy water ecosystem. Deteriorating quality of river water has caused frequent cases of water borne diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, and skin diseases among people living in riverside areas. It has also reduced the religious, recreational and aesthetic value of rivers.


Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. Diabetes increase heart disease related to death by two- to four-fold. SGLT2 inhibitors are new antidiabetic agents. The growing evidence of cardiovascular benefit of SGLT2 inhibitors independent of their effects on glycemic control is especially intriguing. Several clinical trials have shown that sotagliflozin (SGLT1-1/2 inhibitor) decreases body weight and reduces blood pressure in adults with T2D. A phase 3 study designed to evaluate cardiovascular outcomes of sotagliflozin is currently ongoing. Many pre-clinical studies were conducted to investigate the potential mechanisms involved in cardiovascular benefits of SGLT1 or SGLT2 inhibition with or without diabetes. Although multiple mechanisms have been proposed, there are still not enough data to fully support the mechanisms of actions. This review aims to discuss the potential mechanisms involved in cardiovascular benefits of SGLT1 and SGLT2 inhibition in both diabetic and non-diabetic states.


Loneliness is an individual and social problem associated with an unhealthy lifestyle among adolescents. We examined the association between loneliness, physical activity, and participation in physical education lessons among school-going adolescents. Participants included 2517 adolescents aged 14–19 years selected from state public high schools in Amazonas, Brazil. Participants answered a questionnaire containing demographic information, physical activity, and participation in physical education lessons and loneliness. Our results showed that physically inactive adolescents and those who did not participate in physical education lessons were more likely to feel lonely. These findings underscore the need to target physically inactive adolescents and those non-engaged in physical education lessons when developing interventions to address loneliness.


We reconsider Chern-Simons gauge theory on a Seifert manifold M (the total space of a nontrivial circle bundle over a Riemann surface). When M is a Seifert manifold, Lawrence and Rozansky have shown from the exact solution of Chern-Simons theory that the partition function has a remarkably simple structure and can be rewritten entirely as a sum of local contributions from the flat connections on M. We explain how this empirical fact follows from the technique of non-abelian localization as applied to the Chern-Simons path integral. In the process, we show that the partition function of Chern-Simons theory on M admits a topological interpretation in terms of the equivariant cohomology of the moduli space of flat connections on M.


The mitochondrial ADP/ATP carrier (AAC) transports substrate by interconversion of its conformation between m- and c-states. The 1st loop facing the matrix (LM1) is extruded into the matrix in the m-state and is suggested to intrude into the mitochondrial membrane on conversion to the c-state conformation [Hashimoto, M., Majima, E., Goto, S., Shinohara, Y., and Terada, H. (1999) Biochemistry 38, 1050-1056]. To elucidate the mechanism of the translocation of LM1, we examined the effects of site-directed mutagenesis of two adjoining residues, Cys56 and Asp55 in the bovine type 1 AAC and Cys73 and Asp72 in the yeast type 2 AAC, on the substrate transport activity. We found that (i) replacement of the Cys by bulky and hydrophilic residues was unfavorable for efficient transport activity, (ii) the carboxyl groups of the Asp residues of the bovine and yeast AACs were essential and strictly position-specific, and (iii) hence, the mutation to Glu showed transport activity comparable to that of the native AACs. Based on these results, we discussed the functional role of LM1 in the transport activity of AAC.


61 Objectives: Recently, T cells engineered with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that target tumor-associated antigens have shown striking activity in a variety of malignancies. However, assessment of treatment efficacy in solid tumors has proved to be challenging, since the fate and localization of the administered cells cannot be assessed directly. We developed [11C]Shield-1, a novel PET probe that binds to F36V-FKBP (a mutant human FK506 binding protein) with high affinity and specificity, to noninvasively track CAR T cells that have been transduced with the iCasp9 suicide gene, in which the recruitment domain of caspase 9 has been replaced by F36V-FKBP. Since iCasp9 is only activated by dimeric ligands such as rimiducid, monomeric ligands such as Shield-1 do not activate the suicide gene. We plan to utilize the iCasp9 system, which is currently in clinical use, as both a safety switch and a PET imaging reporter gene. Methods The radiosynthesis of [11C]Shield-1 was carried out by methylating the synthesized phenol precursor with [11C]methyl iodide in the presence of base (12N NaOH) at 80 °C for 5 min followed by HPLC purification. In vitro cell-uptake studies with [11C]Shield-1 were performed using two cell lines (HEK293 and HCT116) transduced with F36V-FKBP, with untransduced cells as a control. Blocking studies were performed using 10 μM FK506 (Tacrolimus), an immunosuppressive drug that binds to both FKBP and F36V-FKBP. To assess clearance from blood and major organs, biodistribution studies were carried out at 2 min, 25 min, and 45 min following intravenous administration of [11C]Shield-1 in BALB/c mice. Results [11C]Shield-1 was produced with high radiochemical purity (>99%) and specific activity (>1,800 mCi/μmol). [11C]Shield-1 uptake in F36V-FKBP transduced cells was 3 - 4 fold higher at 40 min compared to untransduced cells and cells blocked with FK506. Biodistribution studies revealed rapid clearance of [11C]Shield-1 from the blood, with low uptake in muscle, spleen, and bone, and increasing uptake in the small bowel over time due to hepatic clearance. Conclusion [11C]Shield-1 was successfully synthesized and its in vitro evaluation showed high and specific uptake in cells expressing the F36V-FKBP reporter gene. Future studies will explore the ability of iCasp9 to serve as a dual function suicide-reporter gene for CAR T cells in a mouse tumor model. We expect that clinical translation of [11C]Shield-1 will be relatively straightforward given that iCasp9 is already in clinical use as a suicide gene in CAR T cells. Research Support: Stand Up To Cancer Innovative Research Grant (SU2C-AACR-IRG-15-17) and RSNA Research Scholar Grant (RSCH1510).


Global simulation is described as 'simultaneously an approach, a set of classroom techniques, and the conceptual framework for a syllabus' (Levine, 2004, p. 27). Students create a fictive yet culturally grounded world, assume the role of a self-developed character, and collaborate with fellow community members (Magnin, 1997). Despite its numerous cited advantages, there are no known empirical studies evaluating the influence of global simulation on language learners. This study evaluated how global simulation influenced the development of intermediate-French students� writing self-beliefs and text quality. Significant differences were found in Intermediate French students� writing self-efficacy, writing self-concept, writing anxiety, and text quality in organization, content, and creativity after participation in a global simulation curriculum. No significant differences were found in students� self-efficacy for self-regulation, perceived value of writing, or text quality in grammar and expression. Implications for researchers and educators are discussed.


Many communities in Cameroon are fast losing large expanse of ancestral land in the wake of a global land rush to local and foreign capitalists operating in the mining and agricultural sectors. This study examines the legal status of commercial land acquisition, the extent to which investors are complying with the law, and the land rights of those affected. It is based on primary data collected through interviews conducted among local administrative and traditional authorities, community members, and civil society organizations. The article highlights how agro-investors with complicity of the State have exploited weakness in Cameroon land laws to dispossess poor communities from ancestral lands. Findings indicate that in violating both laws and due processes to acquire land, the current land rush has left affected communities impoverished and without land and security. Commercial agriculture has displaced communities from traditional sources of livelihood to promote international capitalist interest.


Late preterm is the recommended definition for infants born at 34 0/7 to 36 6/7 weeks' gestation after the onset of the mother's last menstrual period. Late-preterm infants are known to have greater mortality and morbidity when compared with term infants during the neonatal period. Obstetric management plays a substantial role in influencing neonatal outcomes. We conducted a retrospective study on late-preterm births based on data collected by regional certificates of birth attendance, comparing overall data with those relative to our Department, the aim of our study was to evaluate if obstetric management, related to different delivery settings, could influence the prevalence and the method of delivery in late preterm gestational age. Preterm births represent about 10% of 25,011 births in Sardinia, and 72.6% of them are late preterm. Elective cesarean section results significantly higher in late preterm than in term deliveries. In our Department, both late-preterm delivery rate and elective cesarean sections rate were lower if compared with country region data. Obstetric management strategies play an important role in delaying deliveries and reducing late-preterm birth rates.


Near UV irradiation of aerated solutions of (Et 4N) 2[CuCl 4] in dichloromethane causes the decomposition of CH 2Cl 2, as evidenced by the buildup of HCl, C 2H 2Cl 4, and peroxides. A net reduction to [CuCl 2] (-) occurs in the early stages, but is later reversed. In CH 2Cl 2, [CuCl 4] (2-) is in equilibrium with [Cu 2Cl 6] (2-), and only the latter species is photoactive. The decomposition is initiated by the photodissociation of chlorine atoms, which propagate to peroxy radicals, CHCl 2OO. Experimental evidence, including a linear dependence of the decomposition rate on the incident light intensity and on the fraction of light absorbed by [Cu 2Cl 6] (2-), is consistent with a mechanism in which CHCl 2OO is reduced by electron transfer from [CuCl 2] (-), following which protonation yields CHCl 2OOH. The hydroperoxide accumulates during irradiation and it too can reoxidize [CuCl 2] (-). The quantum yield for HCl production at the outset of irradiation at 313 nm is 1.3 mol/einstein, based on the fraction of light absorbed by [Cu 2Cl 6] (2-).


To present the morphological changes of classic primary versus rapidly progressive and secondary hip osteoarthritis (HO) and to examine the expression of two pluripotent mesenchymal stem cell-like markers in the synovial membrane. A prospective observational study was conducted in 57 consecutive cases of radiologically confirmed HO in which total hip arthroplasty was performed. Based on the radiological and clinicopathological features, the cases were divided into three categories: classic primary HO (group A; n=16), rapidly destructive HO (group B; n=24), and HO secondary to avascular osteonecrosis of the femoral head (group C; n=17). Immunostains were performed using the markers CD44 and CD105. The cases from group A were mainly characterized by a marked perivascular inflammatory infiltrate and simple synovial hyperplasia. In group B, the papillary type of synovial hyperplasia was found and presence of chondromatosis, ossification, and ectopic follicles with germinal centers in the subsynovial layer was characteristic, whereas marked calcification and/or ossification were seen in group C. Focal expression of the CD105 and CD44 was noted in the hyperplastic synovial cells and subsynovial layer in cases from group A, whereas synovial cells from group B were diffusely positive for both CD44 and CD105. In secondary HO, CD44 marked the inflammatory cells. Mobilization of the CD44/CD105 positive synovial cells seems to play a role in the genesis of HO. The number of the pluripotent mesenchymal stem cell-like cells derived from the hyperplastic synovial cells might be related to the severity of possible immune-mediated rapidly destructive HO.


Endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 and 2 (ERAP1 and ERAP2) are key components on the pathway that generates antigenic epitopes for presentation to cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs). Coding single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these enzymes have been associated with pre-disposition to several major human diseases including inflammatory diseases with autoimmune etiology, viral infections, and virally induced cancer. The function of these enzymes has been demonstrated to affect CTL and natural killer cell responses toward healthy and malignant cells as well as the production of inflammatory cytokines. Recent studies have demonstrated that SNPs in ERAP1 and ERAP2 can affect their ability to generate or destroy antigenic epitopes and define the immunopeptidome. In this review, we examine the potential role of these enzymes and their polymorphic states on the generation of cytotoxic responses toward malignantly transformed cells. Given the current state-of-the-art, it is possible that polymorphic variation in these enzymes may contribute to the individual's pre-disposition to cancer through altered generation or destruction of tumor antigens that can facilitate tumor immune evasion.


The convergence properties of adaptive filtering algorithms are investigated in situations where the optimal filter is modeled as a time-varying linear system whose parameters are expanded over basis functions. This type of model is one approach when parameters cannot be considered as slowly varying, and is appropriate for modeling certain mobile radio channels and in the identification of the dynamics of vascular autoregulation in kidneys. Appropriate adaptive algorithms are developed in a continuous-time setting, and the local convergence of these algorithms is studied. Conditions for convergence are shown to include an excitation condition on the algorithm regressor and a passivity condition on an algorithm operator. The excitation conditions are interpreted in terms of system signals and the parameter basis functions using previously established results in the discrete-time case. A test for the passivity condition is developed whose application is presented via an illustrative example.


The efficacy of the University of Wisconsin (UW) solution was compared with conventional Euro-Collins solution, as well as with 3 variants of a silica gel solution developed at the University of Minnesota (UM). Protection of the liver grafts with UW was superior after 24 hour preservation, although the results were inferior to those with immediate transplantation, as judged by animal survival, liver function tests, coagulation, and histopathologic parameters. The UM-III solution allowed similar animal survival as with the UW solution. Lactobionate and raffinose that are contained in both the UW and UM-III solutions were thought to be essential constituents for long-term preservation of liver grafts. The study not only establishes, under controlled circumstances, the superiority of the UW solution, but it also provides insight about the reasons for its effectiveness as well as a caution against its over exploitation.


Abstract:  To successfully achieve biodiversity conservation, the amount of ecosystem structure available for economic production must be determined by, and subject to, conservation needs. As such, the scale of economic systems must remain within the limits imposed by the need to preserve critical ecosystems and the regenerative and waste assimilative capacities of the ecosphere. These limits are determined by biophysical criteria, yet macroeconomics involves the use of economic instruments designed to meet economic criteria that have no capacity to achieve biophysically based targets. Macroeconomic policy cannot, therefore, directly solve the biodiversity erosion crisis. Nevertheless, good macroeconomic policy is still important given that bad macroeconomy policy is likely to reduce human well‐being and increase the likelihood of social upheaval that could undermine conservation efforts.


Reducing the economic and environmental impact of industrial process may be achieved by the smartisation of different components. In this work, tube smartisation is presented via direct fabrication of a copper (Cu)-based resistive temperature detector (RTD) on their outer surfaces. The testing was carried out between room temperature and 250 °C. For this purpose, copper depositions were studied using mid-frequency (MF) and high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS). Stainless steel tubes with an outside inert ceramic coating were used after giving them a shot blasting treatment. The Cu deposition was performed at around 425 °C to improve adhesion as well as the electrical properties of the sensor. To generate the pattern of the Cu RTD, a photolithography process was carried out. The RTD was then protected from external degradation by a silicon oxide film deposited over it by means of two different techniques: sol–gel dipping technique and reactive magnetron sputtering. For the electrical characterisation of the sensor, an ad hoc test bench was used, based on the internal heating and the external temperature measurement with a thermographic camera. The results confirm the linearity (R2 > 0.999) and repeatability in the electrical properties of the copper RTD (confidence interval < 0.0005).


This paper describes a new method for generating the turning-gait of a six-legged robot using a combined genetic algorithm (GA)-Fuzzy approach. The main drawback of the traditional methods of gait generation is their high computational load. Thus, there is still a need for the development of a computationally tractable algorithm that can be implemented online to generate stable gait of a multilegged robot. In the proposed genetic-fuzzy system, the fuzzy logic controllers (FLCs) are used to generate the stable gait of a hexapod and a GA is used to improve the performance of the FLCs. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is tested on a number of turning-gait generation problems of a hexapod that involve translation as well as rotation of the vehicle. The hexapod will have to take a sharp circular turn (either clockwise or counter-clockwise) with minimum number of ground legs having the maximum average kinematic margin. Moreover, the stability margin should lie within a certain range to ensure static stability of the vehicle. Each leg of a six-legged robot is controlled by a separate FLC and the performance of the controllers is improved by using a GA. It is to be noted that the actual optimization is done off-line and the hexapod can use these optimized FLCs to navigate in real-world scenarios. As an FLC is computationally less expensive, the proposed algorithm will be faster compared with the traditional methods of gait-generation, which include both graphical as well as analytical methods. The GA-tuned FLCs are found to perform better than the author-defined FLCs.


This paper reports measurements of final-state proton multiplicity, muon and proton kinematics, and their correlations in charged-current pionless neutrino interactions, measured by the T2K ND280 near detector in its plastic scintillator (C$_8$H$_8$) target. The data were taken between years 2010 and 2013, corresponding to approximately 6$\times10^{20}$ protons on target. Thanks to their exploration of the proton kinematics and of kinematic imbalances between the proton and muon kinematics, the results offer a novel probe of the nuclear-medium effects most pertinent to the (sub-)GeV neutrino-nucleus interactions that are used in accelerator-based long-baseline neutrino oscillation measurements. These results are compared to many neutrino-nucleus interaction models which all fail to describe at least part of the observed phase space. In case of events without a proton above a detection threshold in the final state, a fully consistent implementation of the local Fermi gas model with multinucleon interactions gives the best description of the data. In the case of at least one proton in the final state the spectral function model agrees well with the data, most notably when measuring the kinematic imbalance between the muon and the proton in the plane transverse to the incoming neutrino. A clear indication of existence of multinucleon interactions is observed. The effect of final-state interactions is also discussed.


Background: A Comparative study of early postpartum IUCD insertion to interval IUCD insertion at Tertiary Care Centre.Methods: This prospective study was conducted among 100 women at tertiary care centre, Haldwani, Nainital. Patients were divided in to two groups. Group A (n=50)-post placental insertion within 10 minutes of delivery of placenta. Group B (n=50)-Interval insertion after 6 weeks of delivery. Both groups were compared in terms of pain abdomen, bleeding, missing thread, expulsion, infection, UTI, perforation, pregnancy immediately after insertion, after 6 weeks and after 6 months.Result: At the time of insertion there was more difficulty in insertion and cramps in interval group than post placental group (14% vs 4% and 24% vs 12%). At the end of 6 months lower abdominal pain and excessive bleeding less in post placental than interval period (5.12% vs 11.90% and 5.12% vs 14.28%). There was no case of perforation or pregnancy in both the groups. There were less cases of missing thread ,vaginal discharge, UTI and removal rate in post placental group as compare to interval group(2.56% vs 9.52%,7.69% vs 14.28% , 5.12% vs 9.52% and 5.12% vs 11.90%). Expulsion rate was more in post placental group (2.56% vs 0%). At the end of 6 month continuation rate was more in post placental group than interval group (92.30% vs 88.09%)Conclusion: Post placental IUCD is thus found to be more effective, safe and better mean of contraception when compared with Interval period.


– The concepts, theory and practice of strategic management have become prominent in modern management literature especially in this new millennium for one obvious reason: that is, because of the complex, nebulous and dynamic nature of contemporary corporate governance. This phenomenon has in turn become a matter of concern to academics and professionals alike on the field. Consequently, the main objective of this paper is to present an overview of strategic management with particular emphasis on its concepts, theory as well as its linkage with the resource ‐ based philosophy of the firm's competitive advantage. A review of the relevant literature was conducted and a connection between strategic management theory and competitive advantage from the recourse ‐ based philosophy of the firm was identified. It was found that the resource ‐ based model is one of the main strategic management theories applicable to explain organizational performance, and it is also a part of the larger management theory family which has evolved to suit the managerial requirements of the modern complex organizations and also the business environments within which the organizations operate. Examining organizational competitive advantage from this school of thought allows the organizations to measure the significance of its internal resources and capabilities in particular towards attaining a competitive advantage, and hence to provide further support and extension to the Philosophical approach.


In this paper the effect of LDPE content in PVC foams are examined on the structure of both the foam and the LDPE. We attempt to understand how LDPE content affects the structure of PVC in blends and how it changes the glass-transition (Tg). These parameters often provide important information related to the overall macromolecular structure of the polymer blend. Thermal analytical techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) often used to determine the structural transformation of samples. The effect of the miscibility and composition of the PVC/LDPE foam blends on the thermal stability were also investigated.


On almost all software development projects the assumption is made that the program development function will be done on the same machine on which the eventual system will run. It is only when this production machine is unavailable or when its programming environment is totally inadequate that alternatives are considered. In this paper it is suggested that there are many other situations where it would be advantageous to separate the program development and maintenance function onto a specialized computer which is dedicated to that purpose. Such a computer is here called a Programmer's Workbench. The four basic sections of the paper introduce the subject, outline the general concept, discuss areas where such an approach may prove beneficial, and describe an operational system utilizing this concept.


Optimal research results rely on the selection of cellular models capable of recapitulating the characteristics of primary tumours from which they originate. The expression of mucins (MUC16 and MUC1) and truncated O-glycans (Tn, STn and T) represents a characteristic footprint of serous ovarian carcinomas (SOCs). Therefore, selecting ovarian cancer (OVCA) cell lines that reflect this phenotype is crucial to explore the putative biological role of these biomarkers in the SOC setting. Here, we investigated a panel of OVCA cell lines commonly used as SOC models, and tested whether, when cultured in 2D and 3D conditions, these recapitulate the mucin and O-glycan expression profiles of SOCs. We further explored the role of truncating the O-glycosylation capacity in OVCAR3 cells through knockout of the COSMC chaperone, using in vitro and in vivo assays. We found that the majority of OVCA cell lines of serous origin do not share the mucin and truncated O-glycan footprint of SOCs, although 3D cultures showed a higher resemblance. We also found that genetic truncation of the O-glycosylation capacity of OVCAR3 cells did not enhance oncogenic features either in vitro or in vivo. This study underscores the importance of well-characterized cellular models to study specific features of ovarian cancer.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effect of beta irradiation on intimal proliferation and apoptosis in vein grafts.

METHODS
Autogenous vein graft model was established in 80 rats by transplanting the internal branch of the jugular vein to the carotid artery by end to end anastomosis. The veins were irradiated by (32)P solution before anastomosis. Two dose schedules were studied: control group (graft, nonirradiated) and radiation group (20 Gy). The grafted veins were harvested at 3, 1, 2 and 4 week respectively after the operation. intimal hyperplasia (IH), smooth muscle cell (SMC), proliferation, p53, bcl-2 and bax were observed pathologically and immunohistochemically. They were analyzed by a computerized system. The presence of apoptotic VSMC was demonstrated by TUNEL method.

RESULT
There was a significant decrease in the average intimal thickness at 7, 14 and 28 days (t = 15.694, P < 0.05) in the radiation group. Immunohistochemical analysis of PCNA indicated decreased positive cells in the radiation group compared with the controls at 1 and 2 weeks (t = 60.157, P < 0.01). Apoptosis of VSMC was higher in the radiation group than in the control group at 2 weeks (t = 56.176, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in expression of P(53) between the two groups, and there was a significant increase in bax/bcl-2 in the radiation group at 2 weeks (t = 9.783, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION
These preliminary results demonstrated that low dose of beta irradiation in the vein graft inhibits SMC proliferation and induces the apoptosis of VSMC in rats.


This study demonstrates bioluminescent indicators for determining stress hormones in mammalian cells. A genetically encoded bioluminescent probe for stress sensing was first synthesized with a LXXLL motif-linked ligand binding domain of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR LBD), which was then sandwiched between the fragments of Gaussia luciferase (GLuc). This prototype of the bioluminescent indicators was carefully modified with a circular permutation (CP) and/or a corepressor motif. The first notable appearance by cofusion of a corepressor motif to the probe was the biphasic dose-response curves of the indicator to cortisol. A CP largely improved the detection limit of the indicator to cortisol up to 100 times. Fabrication of both CP and the attachment of a corepressor motif in the indicator synergistically contributes to (i) the lower detection limit and wider dynamic range and (ii) the enhanced absolute luminescence and ligand selectivity. This study is the first example that contribution of corepressor motifs to single-chain probes was investigated. This study also provides new insight into improving the sensorial properties of single-chain probes with CP.


Many viruses infections are associated with abortion as cytomegalovirus infection. CMV is almost asymptomatic there for, diagnosis depends primarily on serological tests namely Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect immunoglobulin M and G (IgM, IgM) in serum of aborted women. This study was carried out in Bent- Al Huda hospitals for the period (April 2015 to June 2015).
           A number of 50 aborted women serum collected during 2015. Serum samples were collected and then tested by ELISA for detection of anti-CMV IgM and IgG antibodies. The number of abortion more incidences in second group aged (20 to30 years).  CMV specific IgM antibody was detected in 3pataint  (6%) of the 50  aborted women ,while the specific IgG antibody detected in high percentage 46% in 23 samples. these result was statistically significant (P<0.05) .Seropositivity results for cytomegalovirus (CMV) is highly occurrences  in women with first trimester of gestation.


This study examines the relationships between the influence of different stakeholders and mission-based strategic planning, community development, and economic effectiveness. Our purpose is to highlight the unique and incremental contribution of rank-and-file stakeholders, that is, stakeholders without any specific grade or status, such as nonboard volunteers or beneficiaries. We analyze reported data from 227 nonprofit organizations (NPOs) using structural equation modeling and bootstrap mediation analysis. Our results show that when rank-and-file stakeholders manage to remain influential, strategic planning tends to be more directly rooted in the mission, which contributes to both perceived community and economic effectiveness. These results are discussed with regard to the utility, legitimacy, and urgency of more direct forms of democratic governance giving rank-and-file stakeholders the power to contribute to mission-based strategic planning.


Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) are cardiac hormones that are involved in water and electrolyte homeostasis in heart failure. Although both hormones exert almost identical biological actions, the differential regulation of cardiac ANP and BNP mRNA in compensated and overt heart failure is not known. To study the hypothesis that cardiac BNP is more specifically induced in overt heart failure, a large aortocaval shunt of 30 days duration was produced in rats and compared with compensated heart failure. Compensated heart failure was induced either by a small shunt of 30 days duration or by a large shunt of 3 days duration. Both heart failure models were characterized by increased cardiac weight, which was significantly higher in the large-shunt model, and central venous pressure. Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure was elevated only in the overt heart failure group (control: 5.7 +/- 0. 7; small shunt: 8.6 +/- 0.9; large shunt 3 days: 8.5 +/- 1.7; large shunt 30 days: 15.9 +/- 2.6 mmHg; P < 0.01). ANP and BNP plasma concentrations were elevated in both heart failure models. In compensated heart failure, ANP mRNA expression was induced in both ventricles. In contrast, ventricular BNP mRNA expression was not upregulated in any of the compensated heart failure models, whereas it increased in overt heart failure (left ventricle: 359 +/- 104% of control, P < 0.001; right ventricle: 237 +/- 33%, P < 0.01). A similar pattern of mRNA regulation was observed in the atria. These data indicate that, in contrast to ANP, cardiac BNP mRNA expression might be induced specifically in overt heart failure, pointing toward the possible role of BNP as a marker of the transition from compensated to overt heart failure.


This article explores a women's way of coaching and being in sport that existed prior to Title IX. It considers a shift from an organic to a mechanistic coaching approach. An alternative model based on the concept of organicism and underlying principles of relational power, life-affirming actions, and inclusiveness of all beings is presented. This model emerged from three sources: (a) personal experience; (b) dissertation research interviews with former athletes of Eleanor Snell, who coached at Ursinus College from 1931 to 1972; and (c) the literatures of systems theory, systemic thinking, and Chinese philosophy. The life-affirming organic model re-visions sport, where sport is an important site for transformation not only of our individual selves but also of our human cultures.


Survey findings on contraceptive use and Catholicism in the Philippines are reported. The congressional response to population issues and the Department of Healths response to population problems are discussed. The 1991 survey was sponsored by the Philippine Legislators Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD) and conducted by the Social Weather Stations a reputable public opinion polling firm. A nationally representative sample of 1200 adults 18 years and older was selected. A major finding was that use of family planning (FP) methods is not restricted by religious doctrine school curricula or physicians advice. There was incentive for politicians to support rather than oppose the freedom of couples to choose FP methods. Politicians not supporting FP might not get reelected. Another study conducted in 1992 by the University of the Philippines Population Institute showed similar findings. Couples reported that religion was not a major consideration in selecting FP but when it was considered the most important consideration was whether one could economically provide for ones children. Never users indicated that the reasons for not using contraceptives were fears of side effects opinions about the problems associated with FP practice childlessness and not having reached the problems associated with FP practice childlessness and not having reached the desired number of children. A Catholic spokesperson confirmed the limited impact of the Church due to the ratio of one priest for every 10000 people. Lawmakers viewed the results as impetus to engage in active support for FP programs. Congresswoman Teresa Aquino-Oreta co-chairperson of the PLCPD urged the entire Congress to realize that poverty alleviation is tied to limiting population growth. Lawmakers who are neutral or hostile to FP will be targeted in a campaign of persuasion. Voting records will also be monitored on issues such as childrens and womens welfare nutrition health care environment and resource allocation. The target is to reach a population growth rate of 2% by the year 2000. The new President does not have political ties to influential Catholic officials and as a consequence freely supports population policy and programs to limit growth. His appointments in Health and on the PLCPD reflect a grassroots approach to social problems free choice and wide support.


This study aims to illuminate the meaning of the lived experience of hope as narrated by healthy Swedish adults, who considered themselves as nonreligious. Twenty-four interviewees were asked to narrate their experience of hope. A phenomenological-hermeneutical analysis was performed and the meaning of the lived experience of hope was interpreted as an internal process (i.e., hope related to being), which is linked to the experience of meaning and the awareness of one's possibilities in life. This awareness releases energy and activates thoughts and feelings, enabling the person to make good and meaningful choices. The process generates a sense of independence, freedom, and inner peace. Hope related to being is a prerequisite for an external process (i.e., setting goals). Setting goals comprises action and the expectation of a positive outcome. Hope related to doing nurtures hope related to being. The findings also revealed that hope related to doing is reconstructed throughout the life process.


Raman optical activity (ROA) has evolved into an incisive probe of structure and conformational transitions in polypeptides and proteins revealing many signal patterns characteristic of specific secondary structural elements. In order to further facilitate analysis of ROA spectral intensity variations, two-dimensional correlation methods are applied to ROA and Raman spectra monitoring the α-helix-to-β-sheet transition in poly(L-lysine) as a function of temperature. Pretreatment of data using background subtraction, normalization and gentle smoothing is essential for the successful generation of 2D ROA correlations, 2D Raman correlations and 2D Raman/ROA heterocorrelations. The pseudoscalar nature of ROA spectra results in detailed 2D correlation analyses providing extensive interpretation of spectral intensity variations. Synchronous plots indicate band assignments consistent with established assignments in poly(L-lysine) together with possible new assignments. Corresponding asynchronous plots probe the temporal sequence of the conformational transition indicating distinct temporal phases while monitoring aggregation through a small amount of β-structure present at the start of the experiment ahead of α-helix unfolding. This study demonstrates the potential of 2D correlation analysis as a valuable technique for the extraction of detailed information about aggregation and conformational transitions in polypeptides and proteins from associated ROA and Raman spectra. Results indicate that aggregation of poly(L-lysine) monomers precedes intramolecular conversion of α-helix to β-sheet, which is then followed by fibril formation.


A simple and sensitive spectrophotometric method has been proposed for the determination of flucloxacillin sodium. The determination method is based on charge transfer complexation reaction of the drug with iodine in methanol-dichloromethane medium. The absorbance was measured at 362 nm against the reagent blank. Under optimized experimental conditions, Beer's law is obeyed in the concentration ranges 1-9 μg/mL for flucloxacillin. The method was validated for specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy. The degree of linearity of the calibration curves, the percent recoveries, limit of detection and quantitation for the spectrophotometric method were determined. No interferences could be observed from the additives commonly present in the pharmaceutical formulations. The method was successfully applied for in vitro determination of human urine samples with low RSD value. This is simple, specific, accurate and sensitive spectrophotometric method.


The article discusses the changes to the field of climate finance law contained in the Paris Outcome, consisting of the Paris Agreement treaty text and the COP Decision adopting the treaty. The changes are mainly of a procedural kind and relate to reporting and review of climate finance supplied or received, and to mechanisms that raise climate finance. The substantive part (i.e. the obligations on the amount to be supplied, which rest with developed countries only) is left largely unchanged by the Paris Outcome, although for the first time in a climate treaty, state obligations relating to climate finance are linked to avoidance of the 2°C warming threshold.


(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3 doped with 8 mol % BaTiO3 powder (BNT-BT0.08), prepared by sol-gel method was compacted and sintered by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) process. The influence of SPS temperature on the densification of BNT-BT0.08 ceramic was investigated. Starting from sol-gel nanopowder of BNT-BT containing 8 mol % BaTiO3 with an average particles size of about 30 nm, were obtained ceramics with density around 98 % of the theoretical density value when the SPS temperature used was about 850 °C. The average grain size of the resulting ceramics was 80 nm. The BNT-BT0.08 ceramic sample obtained by SPS method has shown good electric properties at various frequencies. Keywords—(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3 doped with BaTiO3, Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS), dielectric properties


The Universality of Free Fall (UFF) and the Weak Equivalent Principle (WEP) are crucial for Einstein's theory of gravity. In this article, we show that fast-moving test bodies violate UFF. A well-known problem of WEP is its lack of clarity about the inertial masses, e.g., the gravitational mass is equal to the rest mass for test bodies whereas it is equal to the relativistic mass, T^μν, for the source of gravitational fields (S-GF). To resolve this problem we expand WEP into three Sub-WEPs: WEP-I, WEP-II, and WEP-III. This allows us to define a new precise WEP where WEP-I is for slow-moving test bodies/S-GFs and WEP-II or WEP-III is for fast-moving test bodies/S-GFs. Not only is WEP-I valid and equivalent to UFF for slow-moving test bodies, it is also valid for slow-moving S-GFs. Either WEP-II or WEP-III is applicable to fast-moving test bodies/S-GFs. A synchrotron-type experiment is designed to directly verify both the predicted violation of UFF and the un-demonstrated WEP-II or WEP-III. Experimental confirmation of WEP-II would lead to an internal U (1) symmetry of gravity.