"One might justifiably question the artist's role in images that are not merely assembled by the computer in its capacity as a tool, but generated directly by it. Where is the human input?" Lambert, Latham and Leymarie recently raised this question [1]. The core of their question is as old as computer art (about 50 years). I prefer calling such work algorithmic art; although algorithmic art does not necessarily involve a computer, this term is more distinctive. When an artist uses digital computers today, she is not going to say: Look, a new technique is available, it's complex, but I know how to use it, and look at my computer drawings! Such a silly, proud attitude may have been justified at an early stage of computer art. I call this stage the McLuhan stage of algorithmic art: the medium was still the message---which is to say that the specific form of the medium was more important than the content of the message. In the early 1960s, when the story of computer art began, people were asking what contributions to a work were made by the artist, by the computer and by the output device. They felt that if the computer played a considerable role in generating an image, then that image could not possibly be a piece of art [2]. Leaving aside the fact that here I am comparing human work to machinic operation, the artist only produces a work. Beyond being produced, a work of art must be acknowledged as such. Only "society" may acknowledge a product of work as a work of art. It is not the artist who decides. The artist finishes his work and presents it to the public. Thus begins the work's transformation into a work of art. The result is open. Marcel Duchamp said in 1957: "The creative act is not performed by the artist alone; the spectator . . . adds his contribution to the creative act" [3]. Du champ saw a contribution by the spectator at the time of the work's creation. How much more is this so when it comes to judging art. Back to the case of algorithmic art! No computer operates without software. The artist may use software in her creative process. Either she has acquired it from somewhere or she has developed it herself. If she hasn't and is only using packaged software, her work may still please people. It may be sold by a gallery. Critics may react enthusiastically. But the state of such work is that of the digital Sunday painter's work. It will not attain the realm of acknowledged art. How can I defend such a position? Algorithmic art starts with the development of an algorithm. That's human work. The generative process ends in some material object, say ink on paper. That's the machine's work. What the machine realizes is one instance of a potentially infinite set of pieces. The artist, however, has described a concept: the entire class of those pieces. Depending on the expressive power of the parameters contained in the algorithmic description, the differences in visual appearance of the pieces may be immense. There is no limit to our descriptive capacities. There can be no question that for algorithmic art the human artist is the originator and decision maker. Only the marginal effort of running the algorithm and outputting the result is contributed by the machine. By submitting the algorithm to the computer (in form of a program), the artist lets the machine do the manual part of the work. The operations carried out by the computer are of semiotic origin. Therefore, some think the operations are mental. Algorithmic art, we thus see, is computable conceptual art. Algorithms are concepts in the special form of computability. They are concepts that can be carried out automatically and repeated indefinitely. Algorithmic art is precisely described art with lots of surprises. It is chaotic and rule-based. It is contradictory in itself. The algorithm is a description from which the semiotic machine generates something that interests us to observe. Algorithmic art is abstract art where the work itself has been abstracted away into description. The art in algorithmic art rests in the algorithm, the human contribution. It appears in the relation between the algorithm and its output.


We report direct evidence of methanol photodissociation on TiO2 (110) detected by time-resolved two-photon photoemission (2PP) spectroscopy. The rise of an excited resonance in the 2PP spectra on the CH3OH/ TiO2 (110) surface as a function of laser illumination time strongly suggest that the observed excited resonance is photoinduced by the 400nm laser. The appearance rate of the excited resonance is strongly dependent on the laser power. A large isotope effect on the appearance rate of the excited resonance has also been observed. Based on these experimental results of previous experimental and theoretical studies, the excited resonance observed in the 2PP spectra is attributed to methanol photodissociation on the TiO2 (110) surface in which the hydroxyl hydrogen on methanol is transferred from the methanol oxygen atom, which is bonded to the Ti4+ sites , to the nearby bridge bonded oxygen (BBO) site. This picture is supported by recent STM studies on the same surface. The rate constant of the photocatalyzed dissociation of methanol appears to time dependent, suggesting that this process is heterogeneous.


The purpose of this study is to contribute to the understanding of current changes in family structure in urban Colombia and their relationship to socio-demographic variables. Seven hundred and seventy Colombian families from the cities of Medellín, Bogotá, Cali, and Barranquilla participated in the study. In all of these Colombian cities, the nuclear family is predominant but coexists with other family structures, such as the extended nuclear, the female single-parent, and the extended female single-parent family. Women have abandoned the role of housewife to participate in the labor market. Similarly, there is evidence of a reduction in the number of children in family groups when compared to previous studies. Consistent with previous studies in Latin America, the results demonstrate the peak of the female single-parent family.


In the academic year 2017.2018 we launched an educational initiative to introduce a new pedagogical approach based on the collaborative learning teaching strategy known as Team Based Learning (TBL). This pilot was introduced to a final year core course in Macroeconomics and Microeconomics in Context II of the BSc Economics programme offered at the University of Greenwich. We present in this case study evidence and views about TBL approach and offer our experience and reflections on how to successfully apply TBL to intermediate/advanced economics courses. We consider TBL a very rewarding and enjoyable experience which drew us closer to students' ways of learning.


In 1991, acclaimed poet Kenneth A. McClane published "Walls: Essays, 1985-1990", a volume of essays dealing with life in Harlem, the death of his alcoholic brother, and the complexities of being black and middle-class in America. Now, in "Color: Essays on Race, Family, and History", McClane contributes further to his self-described 'autobiographical sojourn' with a second collection of interconnected essays. In McClane's words, 'All concern race, although they, like the human spirit, wildly sweep and yaw'. A timely installment in our national narrative, "Color" is a chronicle of the black middle class, a group rarely written about with sensitivity and charity. In evocative, trenchant, and poetic prose, McClane employs the art of the memoirist to explore the political and the personal. He details the poignant narrative of racial progress as witnessed by his family during the 1950s, '60s, and '70s. We learn of his parents' difficult upbringing in Boston, where they confronted much racism; of the struggles they and McClane encountered as they became the first blacks to enter previously all-white institutions, including the oldest independent school in the United States; and of the part his parents played in the civil rights movement, working with Dr. King and others. The book ends with a tender account of his parents in the throes of Alzheimer's disease, which claimed both their lives.


We begin with the assumption that lens design and the manufacture of optical elements are mature technologies and that further improvements in quality will be small. This leaves assembly and alignment as the only areas for making improvements in precision optical system performance. To this end, we emphasize the importance of considering methods of alignment early in the design phase of a system and explore some of the considerations of the optomechanical design that can lead to easier and more precise optical alignment of systems, particularly systems that are more complex than the one-dimensional case of lenses in a barrel.


Information processing based on the laws of quantum mechanics promises to be a revolutionary new avenue in information technology. This emerging field of quantum information processing (QIP) is however challenged by the fragile nature of the quantum bits (qubits) in which quantum information is stored and processed. An error in even a single qubit makes the quantum processor go off-track, corrupting the calculation as a whole. Therefore, the chance for an erroneous outcome increases with the number of qubits in the processor. Large-scale QIP thus hinges on the ability to correct for these errors. Classical information processing often uses error correction algorithms to identify errors by checking whether information is consistent in multiple copies. This strategy is unfortunately not applicable to QIP as quantum states cannot be copied. Moreover, direct measurements on qubits collapse their quantum states, reducing them to classical information. Fortunately, the theory of quantum error correction (QEC) overcomes these complications by encoding quantum information in entangled states of many qubits and performing parity measurements to identify errors in the system without destroying the encoded information. Implementing these codes is challenging as it requires many qubits and quick interleaving of operations and measurements. Moreover, to not introduce more errors in the system than QEC can solve for, these operations and measurements need to be of sufficient fidelity and speed...


OBJECTIVE
To analyse the clinical and serological characteristics of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the center of Tunisia.

METHODS
We studied 128 patients with SLE aged one to 73 years. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) were detected by an immunofluorescence method. Anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibodies, anti-extractable nuclear antigen antibodies (anti-Sm, anti-SS-A, anti-SS-B and anti-RNP) and anti-cardiolipin (aCL of IgG, IgA and IgM isotypes) antibodies were detected by ELISA.

RESULTS
Malar rash (71%) and anemia (71%) were the most common clinical manifestations. Arthritis was seen in 62.5%. Severe kidney damage was observed in 39%. Pericarditis and pleuritis were observed in only 23%. Neurological manifestations (16%) were uncommon. Clinical manifestations of anti-phospholipid syndrome (SAPL) were observed in 15%. ANA were detected in 100%, anti-dsDNA in 76%, anti-Sm in 55.5%, anti-SS-A in 64%, anti-SS-B in 33.6%, anti-RNP in 49%. aCL of IgG, IgA and IgM isotypes were detected in 63.5%, 49% and 40.6% of the patients respectively. The only significant positive clinical associations were those of arthritis with anti-dsDNA antibodies (p = 0.022) and malar rash with anti-SS-A antibodies (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS
This study suggests that tunisians with SLE present, in general, a mild form of disease predominantly manifested by cutaneous, musculoskeletal and hematologic involvement but low prevalence of major organ damage.


A report is given of a measles outbreak in healthcare workers and the general population that occurred in February to March in Ústí nad Labem. The source of infection was a man with a history of travel to India. The outbreak was primarily observed in the patients contacts and then spread widely to healthcare workers of the Masaryk Hospital in Ústí nad Labem. The outbreak further reached the general population including family contacts of the patients. By the end of March 2014, 171 measles cases were reported, 68 (39.8%) of which in healthcare workers. Cases we confirmed by laboratory analysis of IgM antibodies and IgG antibody dynamics and, possibly, by R-PCR. In addition to standard preventive anti-epidemic measures, the healthcare workers of the Masaryk Hospital were vaccinated with an extra dose of the Priorix vaccine. Measles cases were most often reported in the population born in 1970-1980. This age group was the target population for an extra dose of the Priorix vaccine. General recommendations have been formulated based on the experience from the outbreak.


Summary
The not-invented-here (NIH) syndrome has been called one of the largest obstacles in innovation management, preventing effective knowledge transfer between organizational units and individuals. NIH is defined as a negatively shaped attitude towards knowledge that has to cross a disciplinary, spatial, or organizational boundary, resulting in either its suboptimal utilization or its rejection. Our goal is to equip scholars with appropriate measurement instruments for the phenomenon. On the basis of 4 studies with 1,238 subjects overall, we developed an implicit measure based on the implicit-association test as well as an explicit (survey) measure of NIH, taking into account theoretical insights on attitude structure. We provide evidence for reliability as well as construct and criterion validity. We want to facilitate further research on NIH and knowledge transfer (a) by providing a better theoretical framework for NIH on the basis of the tripartite componential model of attitudes, (b) by demonstrating the application of association-based implicit measures for management research, and (c) by providing a validated multidimensional survey scale to measure NIH explicitly. We also provide recommendations on how managers can utilize the NIH measurement instruments to investigate NIH and potential countermeasures in detail and they can test the behavioral outcomes postulated by previous research.


Current theorists stress the context-specificity of social behaviors and social cognitions. Although researchers have started to investigate the relationship as one context that might influence social cognitions, relatively little is known about the influence of relational context on the social goals endorsed by children and adolescents. The current study tested the hypothesis that pre-adolescents' goals would vary between individuals as well as across relational contexts, and examined factors that might explain such variation. Participants (N = 102, 11–12 years) filled in questionnaires regarding their social goals and self- and peer-perceptions when around each same-sex classmate. Both goals and perceptions displayed significant variation between individuals, as well as between different relationship contexts. The goals pre-adolescents pursued in different relationships were partly explained by varying perceptions of self and of the relationship partner in each relational context, as well as by the affective nature of the relationship. After accounting for the relationship-specific variation, few associations were significant at the individual level. The results highlight the importance of studying contextual variance in social goals and social cognitions in general.


Spacecraft propulsion is an important aspect of space exploration. Current in-space propulsion technologies are limited by the amount of propellant they can carry. However, to gain higher velocities and enable a new range of missions, Solar Sails can be used as an alternative. Solar Sails use the momentum exchange of impacting and reflecting photons off their sails for propulsion. Their propellantless and low cost nature enables long duration missions, and the constant light pressure gives access to new range of orbits. Most proposed Solar Sail missions rely on the sail propulsion to achieve their primary mission/science objective. Even with the successful deployment of the IKAROS sail, Solar Sails are not at the necessary technology readiness level to be used by science missions. The focus of the research presented in this thesis is to address the two main technological challenges facing the construction of a Solar Sail: sail deployment and attitude control. Most sail attitude control systems use the centre of mass, centre of pressure offset, but rely on the use of the main sail structure. By attaching actuators to the main sail, these systems increase the complications and risks involved in deployment. A novel scalable bus-based attitude control system (ACS) is proposed that makes use of bus-mounted ballast masses and reflective panels and is shown to be more practical. As a result of the decoupled nature of this ACS, the risks and complexities involved in construction of the sail deployment subsystem are reduced. The presented attitude control system, unlike others, is generic and can be used alongside any available sail deployment mechanism or system irrespective to the size of the sail. The second challenge is in-space deployment of an ultra-lightweight membrane structure. A low cost, commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) based, four quadrant nano-Solar Sail deployment system is proposed, that uses four novel tape-spring booms to hold the sail membrane in place. Four possible membrane-folding patters are investigated and a novel "Creasing Indicator" that quantifies the effects of folding on sail membrane efficiency is proposed. Additionally, testing of a small-scaled engineering model of the deployment mechanism for a 1. 7m x 1. 7m sail is presented. Extensive ground based deployment tests of the mechanism shows the feasibility and practicality of this concept. The fundamental objective of this PhD is to improve the current state of Solar Sail technologies by enhancing the sail deployment and attitude control subsystems. These challenges will be addressed in the context of a proposed nano-Solar Sail demonstration mission, enabled by this research, called Cubesail which is being designed and built at the Surrey Space Centre.


With billions of monthly active users, Facebook has an unprecedented ability for the dissemination of information. In healthcare, attempts have been made to utilize this tool for goals such as predicting disease onset; however, shared articles that omit information or propagate incorrect statements may have a negative effect. The goal of this study was to assess the accuracy of information in the nascent months of the 2019-2020 Covid-19 outbreak.The fifty most popular articles on Facebook for the period between November 2019 and March 25, 2020 (as collated by Buzzsumo- a social media analyzing tool) were analyzed by independent researchers and sorted into classifications for accurate, inaccurate and misleading. Following evaluation, 32% of articles were deemed to be accurate, 18% inaccurate, and 50% misleading (as defined by containing both accurate and inaccurate information). To restate, 68% of the 50 most popular articles on Facebook were not accurate during the study period. Impressions, shares and comments on Facebook in a summation of inaccurate and misleading articles were also analyzed in separate fashion and found to be 71.44%, 74.97%, and 80.22% respectively. These numbers outpace the 68% of total articles for which these types of stories account.In addition, shares were individually assessed as they indicate a desire to propagate the information forward on the part of the user, and were found to have occurred 6.61 million times in the inaccurate and misleading group compared to 2.2 million for accurate articles, for a cumulative rate of 74.9% of shares, again outpacing the 68% expected.There is a high rate of both inaccurate and misleading information related to the Covid-19 outbreak on Facebook, as assessed by physician reviewers. This information is not only more prevalent than the accurate information, but also received more engagement via overall impressions, as well as shares and comments. Although there is no clear remedy for this phenomenon, its implications range from general distrust to non-adherence to precaution guidelines or required actions. There is also a question regarding Facebook's policing of itself and the content on its site, as well as that content published to it from other websites.


HYPOTHESIS
Metabolic imaging by positron emission tomography (PET) using [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose will be more accurate than anatomic imaging by computed tomography (CT) for detection of recurrent colorectal cancer. More accurate staging of recurrent tumor by PET will lead to more appropriate management decisions.

DESIGN
Prospective blinded study comparing PET with CT, using histologic diagnosis, serial CT imaging, and clinical follow-up as criterion standards, with a fully blinded, retrospective reinterpretation of PET studies. Changes in diagnosis resulting from PET findings were correlated with subsequent treatment and surgical findings. Potential cost savings resulting from use of PET for preoperative staging were calculated.

SETTING
Private practice in an outpatient tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS
A group of 155 consecutive patients with imaging for diagnosis or staging of recurrent colorectal cancer. Twenty-one patient (14%) were excluded due to lack of a criterion standard. Computed tomographic scans were available for comparison for 115 patients.

RESULTS
Positron emission tomographic scan sensitivity and specificity were 93% and 98%, respectively, compared with 69% and 96% for CT. Ninety-five percent confidence intervals for the differences between the modalities were 16% to 32% for sensitivity and 1% to 5% for specificity. The sensitivity of both modalities varied with anatomic site of recurrence. Positron emission tomographic scans were true positive in 12 (67%) of 18 patients with elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels and negative CT findings. In 23 (29%) of 78 preoperative studies in which CT showed a single site of recurrence, PET showed tumor at additional sites. At surgery, nonresectable, PET-negative tumor was found in 7 (17%) of 42 patients who had PET evidence of localized recurrence only. Potential savings resulting from demonstration of nonresectable tumor by PET were calculated at $3003 per preoperative study.

CONCLUSIONS
Positron emission tomography was more sensitive and specific than CT for detection of recurrent colorectal cancer. Preoperative detection of nonresectable tumor by PET may avoid unnecessary surgery, and thereby reduce the cost of patient treatment.


ABSTRACT This project was conducted to determine if chromosomal characteristics can provide information useful in systematics of the naiades (Bivalvia: Unionida). A field-compatible slide preparation technique was perfected to the point that a few chromosome spreads could be expected from most processed animals. Chromosome slides were prepared from 250 naiades collected in ten of the east-central and southeastern United States, the western state of Oregon, and Manitoba Province, Canada. The 65 species of North American naiades for which chromosome numbers were determined during this project (64 members of the family Unionidae and one member of the family Margaritiferidae) all have a diploid number of 38 chromosomes. This number is identical to reported diploid numbers for the 11 European and seven of the eight Asian unionid and margaritiferid species that have been studied, strongly suggesting that 38 is the diploid number present in the largely Northern Hemisphere superfamily Unionoidea. In the other unionid superfamily, the Etherioidea, the three Australian and one South American hyriid naiades that have been studied all have 34 diploid chromosomes, while the single studied African iridinid species has 20 chromosomes. If this difference in chromosome numbers is substantiated as more, especially Southern Hemisphere species are studied, this straight-forward morphologic character could become important in recognizing distinctions between high-level groups of naiades. An analysis of chromosomal morphology focused on two metrics: Arm Ratio (r) and Relative Length (RL). When considered together, these two virtually independent metrics sort the chromosomes into similar-size and similar-shape groups that can facilitate comparisons between species. Analysis of the suggested karyotypes for these two metrics and the detailed karyotypes of their interaction demonstrates the similarity of two species in the same naiad genus and the substantial dissimilarity of two species in different naiad tribes. Analysis of the r and RL metrics for ten species and an all-inclusive composite demonstrates that karyotypic data can recognize similarities and differences among naiad species that correspond with results from other morphologic and genetic character sets.


: The effect on donor leukocyte migration of serum obtained from the patients with tuberculosis of the lungs, chronic pneumonia and healthy persons was studied after subcutaneous or intradermal injection of the microbial antigen (PPD, streptococcus and staphylococcus antigen). A factor inhibiting donor leukocyte migration appeared in the blood serum of sensitized individuals after the antigen injection. This factor proved to be localized in the serum fraction III obtained after the gel-filtration of sephadex G-200, and is sorbed by leukocytes.


This paper considers the generalization ability of two regularized regression algorithms [least square regularized regression (LSRR) and support vector machine regression (SVMR)] based on non-independent and identically distributed (non-i.i.d.) samples. Different from the previously known works for non-i.i.d. samples, in this paper, we research the generalization bounds of two regularized regression algorithms based on uniformly ergodic Markov chain (u.e.M.c.) samples. Inspired by the idea from Markov chain Monto Carlo (MCMC) methods, we also introduce a new Markov sampling algorithm for regression to generate u.e.M.c. samples from a given dataset, and then, we present the numerical studies on the learning performance of LSRR and SVMR based on Markov sampling, respectively. The experimental results show that LSRR and SVMR based on Markov sampling can present obviously smaller mean square errors and smaller variances compared to random sampling.


Survival and growth of developing salmonids are negatively affected by low oxygen levels within gravel nests in natural streams, and hypoxic stress is often experienced by farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) within hatcheries. Exposure to hypoxia during early development may have long-lasting effects by altering epigenetic marks and gene expression in oxygen regulatory pathways. Here, we examine the transcriptomic response to low dissolved oxygen (DO) in post-hatch salmon reared continuously in 30%, 60% or 100% DO from fertilization until start of feeding. RNA sequencing revealed multiple differentially expressed genes, including oxygen transporting hemoglobin embryonic α subunit (hbae) and EGLN3 family hypoxia-inducible factor 3 (egln3) which regulates the stability of hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). Both hbae and egln3 displayed expression levels inversely correlated to oxygen concentration, and DNA methylation patterns within the egln3 promoter were negatively associated with the transcript levels. These results suggest that epigenetic processes are influenced by low oxygen levels during early development in Atlantic salmon to upregulate hypoxia-response genes.


A simple and compact microstrip-fed ultrawide-band (UWB) printed monopole antenna with band-notch characteristic is proposed. The antenna is composed of two monopoles of the same size and a small strip bar which leads to the desired high attenuation at the notch frequency. Details of the antenna design are presented and discussed. The band-notch mechanism and current distribution of the antenna are examined. Finally, the frequency-domain characteristics are analyzed to evaluate the antenna performance for UWB applications


Most existing three-dimensional (3D) models for the polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC), as well as other types of fuel cells, are fully numerical and computationally expensive. While such models are undoubtedly useful, they cannot provide the qualitative understanding that comes from a complete prior nondimensional analysis of the problem. Here, earlier ideas for the derivation of a two-dimensional (2D) asymptotically reduced model to describe steady isothermal gas-phase flow in the cathode of a PEFC are extended to a 3D nonisothermal model for a whole PEFC with straight channel flow distributors. As well as providing characteristic current density and temperature difference scales for the whole cell, it is also possible to extract potential drops over individual cell components. The analysis indicates that, for realistic operating ranges, the PEFC is sufficiently isothermal with respect to the mass, momentum, and charge transport to enable the thermal problem to be decoupled from the rest, a simplification not noted previously. After the relevant nondimensional parameters have been identified, a reduced model is proposed and some preliminary numerical results comparing the polarization curves obtained from the reduced and 3D models are presented. Good agreement is found; most significantly, the reduced model is found to require between one and two orders of CPU time less than the full 3D model.


Our Galaxy resides in the center of a vast "Halo" of Dark Matter (DM). This concentration produces, in many viable particle physics models, an indirect Weakly Interacting Massive Particle (WIMP) annihilation signal that peaks in the Fermi-LAT's energy range. Our knowledge of the diffuse background is essential to placing reasonable limits on the DM mass and cross-section. We incorporate a systematic variation of the GALPROP galactic diffuse background model, constrained by current cosmic-ray measurements, into a profile likelihood analysis and present preliminary upper limits on the DM annihilation cross-section using the Fermi-LAT data.


The normative implications of sustainable development mean that different understandings of how sustainability should be achieved will either facilitate or put at risk different values associated with economic, environmental and social aspects of sustainability. By a qualitative analysis of Swedish fishery legislation documents, we analyse and outline the consequences of two different and competing sustainability epistemologies: a top-down system understanding and a bottom-up experiential understanding. To define these two epistemologies, the case study adopts discourse analysis on one fishery law and one fishery regulation proposal, and the remittance answers to these documents. We demonstrate how a top-down system approach shapes social reality according to its own logic of efficiency, and that pre-defined principles of economic optimization prevail over social experience and continuity. We conclude that qualitative analysis holds promise to expand the understanding of the premises and consequences of alternative environmental governance trajectories due to its ability to uncover social constructions of meaning. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment


Non-functional paraganglioma have not clinical or biological characteristics, so that the diagnostic is most of the time delayed and made on the occasion of advanced abdominal tumor or symptomatic metastasis management. Hereditary forms, notably those with SDHB mutation, seem to have a poor prognosis. On the other hand, and on the oposite to sporadic forms, they are the only ones to benefit from genetic testing which make possible, if positive, an earlier diagnostic, before apparition of symptoms, recurrence or metastasis. We report a case of non-functional malignant hereditary paraganglioma diagnosed belatedly and we will consider management problems raised by non-functional forms.


A recent change to a computerized documentation system has had a positive influence on productivity, reliability of documentation, quality assurance, nurse satisfaction and professional practice. This software system combines the care plan and nurses' notes and is standard-based. Each patient's care plan is compiled from Units of Care, which provide a menu covering nursing diagnosis, medical diagnosis, chief complaints and special procedures and events.


Abstract Boron concentrations in 335 tap water samples collected from 75 cities in Turkey have been determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Boron levels ranged between 0.001 and 5.5 mg/L. The lowest boron levels were in Trabzon, the highest in Kayseri. Boron levels in tap water from cities of the Aegean, Eastern, and Central Anatolian Regions were higher than those from cities of the Marmara, Black Sea, South East, and Mediterranean Regions. The overall mean value was around 0.2 mg/L, lower than the limit levels given by the WHO and the European Union, and also the limit level established by Turkish regulations. In some cities, these limit values were exceeded, generally in the tap water of cities where the drinking water based on groundwater or of those located in the vicinity of hot springs, volcanic areas, or boron production regions. This is the most detailed study evaluating boron levels in the drinking water of Turkey. To conclusion, since the boron intake is being mainly with nutrients and drinking water it may effect public health. To know boron levels in drinking waters is also very important for epidemiologic studies and for establishment of database of boron level in drinking waters in Turkey. Graphical Abstract


Introduction The use of alpha-1 receptor antagonists in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) has created a problem in ophthalmic surgery, the so-called intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS). This consists of a billowing iris, insufficient pupillary dilation with progressive intraoperative miosis, and protrusion of iris tissue through the tunnel and side port incision that are made for access to the anterior chamber during surgery. IFIS presents particular difficulties in cataract surgery which is carried out through the pupil with manipulations in the immediate vicinity of the iris. The complications range from poor visibility of the operative field to iris damage with the surgical instruments and to rupture of the posterior capsule, with loss of lens material into the vitreous body. Material and methods A comprehensive literature review was performed using MEDLINE with MeSH terms and keywords 'benign prostatic hyperplasia', 'intraoperative floppy iris syndrome', 'adrenergic alpha-antagonist' and 'cataract surgery'. In addition, reference lists from identified publications were reviewed to identify reports and studies of interest from 2001 to 2017. Results The A total of 95% of experienced ophthalmologic surgeons reported that systematic treatment with tamsulosin represents a challenging surgical condition increasing the risk of complications. Alpha-blockers are commonly prescribed, with 1,079,505 packages of tamsulosin prescribed each month in 2014 in Austria. Dose modification may be one way to reduce the risk of IFIS. A lower incidence of IFIS was reported in patients on tamsulosin in Japan, but the recommended dosage was lower than that used in Europe and the US (0.2 mg vs. 0.4 mg). Conclusions We showed that not all patients taking tamsulosin experience IFIS. Moreover, larger investigations with a prospective design are needed, including studies to monitor the pre- and post-therapeutic ophthalmologic changes under tamsulosin, as well as urodynamic improvements resulting from this therapy.


Under disease conditions including obesity (insulin resistance) and diabetes, dysregulation of adipokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, leptin, resistin, and adiponectin contribute to the development of metabolic and cardiovascular disease. Unlike other adipokines, adiponectin has been shown to be a therapeutic target for metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Circulating levels of adiponectin are markedly reduced in obese, diabetic, hypertensive, and coronary artery disease patients as well as experimental animal models of insulin resistance and diabetes. Recently, the small molecule adiponectin receptors (AdipoRs) agonist was discovered and suggested that the agonist is a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes linked to obesity in an experimental mouse model. This review will focus on signaling pathways involved in adiponectin and its receptors and the role of adiponectin in metabolic and cardiovascular disease including insulin resistance, cardiomyopathy, and cardiovascular dysfunction.


Some aspects of the performance of a liquid xenon PET detector prototype were studied by means of Monte Carlo simulation.<<ETX>>


A probabilistic model of third-body particle embedment was derived for surfaces separated by a hydrodynamic slurry film. The analysis yields estimates of the density of embedded particles in terms of surface topography parameters, particle size distribution, and mean surface gap determined by the applied load, macroscopic geometry of the moving surfaces, and fluid properties. The model has direct application to chemical-mechanical polishing and fabrication of lapping plates for polishing magnetic recording heads.Copyright © 2008 by ASME


We consider the task of training a neural network to anticipate human actions in video. This task is challenging given the complexity of video data, the stochastic nature of the future, and the limited amount of annotated training data. In this paper, we propose a novel knowledge distillation framework that uses an action recognition network to supervise the training of an action anticipation network, guiding the latter to attend to the relevant information needed for correctly anticipating the future actions. This framework is possible thanks to a novel loss function to account for positional shifts of semantic concepts in a dynamic video. The knowledge distillation framework is a form of self-supervised learning, and it takes advantage of unlabeled data. Experimental results on JHMDB and EPIC-KITCHENS dataset show the effectiveness of our approach.


In neurosurgery, surgical site infections are major cause of morbidity and mortality. It has been significant burden in clinical practice, despite of best practices with or without use of antibiotics. Topical antibiotics are one potential method reducing the problem. In our study, we seek to evaluate the benefits of topical vancomycin. In this Institutional Review Board-approved retrospective observational study, patients who underwent neurosurgical intervention in Department of Neurological Surgery KMCTH enrolled retrospectively from October 1, 2014 to September 30, 2018. Patients in whom topical vancomycin powder applied intra operatively for post operative SSI prophylaxis and those without, comprising the vast majority of neurosurgical patients within the KMCTH, were examined. Patients presenting with infection, open wound, multiple scheduled surgeries, application of topical antibiotics other than vancomycin, or multiple antibiotics were excluded. Patients data were analyzed within the first 30 days aftersurgery. There were total 259 patients with 190 as control and 69 as cases. With all these surgeries undergone we had SSI in 5, 1.93% (p = <0.001) of emergency surgeries, where Vancomycin powder was not used. There were no surgical site infection in any of the cases where topical Vancomycin powder was used. Topical vancomycin is a safe, effective, and economical measure to prevent SSIs following craniotomy.


In the mobile communication service market, this study represents an attempt to forecast the subscribers of the IMT-2000 service market using the questionnaire of experts which is the qualitative technique is used. In this study, by using the substitution model of next generations among products in order to analyze the IMT-2000 demand of service, a demand was predicted. And by estimating the market demand prospect in which it becomes the important factor of the IMT-2000 service diffusion according to each bandwidth frequency the politically necessary approaching direction about the frequency was presented. It will be able to become the important part to not only the business carrier but also the policy maker to examine a prospect toward the subscriber of the IMT-2000 service. As a result, the market demand was exposed to be most big when the SKT 800MHz, and the KTF 800(900)MHz were used as the additional frequency. And it was likely to reach to the IMT-2000 number of subscribers to about 35,750 thousand peoples in the future at 2015.


Objectives The main question of this study was to evaluate the intensity of oxidative protein modification shown as advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) and carbonylated proteins, expressed as protein carbonyl content (C=O) in abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Design and Methods The study was carried out in a group of 35 AAA patients and 13 AIOD patients. However, CKD patients were divided into two groups: predialysis (PRE) included 50 patients or hemodialysis (HD) consisted of 34 patients. AOPP and C=O were measured using colorimetric assay kit, while C-reactive protein concentration was measured by high-sensitivity assay (hsCRP). Results The concentration of AOPP in both AAA and AIOD groups was higher than in PRE and HD groups according to descending order: AAA~AIOD > HD > PRE. The content of C=O was higher in the PRE group in comparison to AIOD and AAA according to the descending order: PRE~HD > AAA~AIOD. Conclusions AAA, AIOD, and CKD-related atherosclerosis (PRE and HD) contribute to the changes in the formation of AOPP and C=O. They may promote modification of proteins in a different way, probably due to the various factors that influence oxidative stress here.


New material systems of intercalated compounds MTiS2 (M= Cr, Mn, Fe) have been systematically studied by ab-initio method. In order to investigate the effect of charge transfer from guest 3d transition metal atoms to host TiS2, the electronic and transport properties have been calculated using full potential linearized augmented plane wave (LAPW) + local orbitals (lo) scheme, in the framework of density functional theory (DFT) with generalized gradient approximation (GGA) for the purpose of exchange correlation energy functional. From the energy bands and density of states it is observed that the 3d-states of M atoms contribute mainly to the conduction band, which results in increase in electrical and thermal conductivity of highly intercalated TiS2. The calculated electronic component γ which is derived from specific heats of intercalated TiS2 is quite high (2-50 mJ/mol K 2 ) and increases substantially on intercalation. The 3d-states of transition metal M and Ti atoms which split due to the exchange interaction imparts magnetic properties to the MTiS2 systems. The calculated transport properties have been analysed on the basis of the density of states and correctly explain the origin of different magnetic ordered phases. Copyright © 2015 VBRI press.


ABSTRACT The approximately 1011 viruses and microbial cells per gram of fecal matter (dry weight) in the large intestine are important to human health. The responses of three common gut bacteria species, and one opportunistic pathogen, to 117 commonly consumed foods, chemical additives, and plant extracts were tested. Many compounds, including Stevia rebaudiana and bee propolis extracts, exhibited species-specific growth inhibition by prophage induction. Overall, these results show that various foods may change the abundances of gut bacteria by modulating temperate phage and suggests a novel path for landscaping the human gut microbiome.


Among the American publications of the last few decades devoted to the examined subject, the most interesting ones are the works by R. Kraus, Hwan Okon and M. Yoshihara. What they have in common is a concentration of attention not as much on the indisputable achievements as on the problems and contradictions of a systematic character arising during the course of adaptation of the European musical model into a different cultural milieu. R. Kraus gives a grounded analysis of the role of social status priorities of the middle class in the promotion of the piano in China. Hwakon Okon ties the exceptional success of adaptation of the European piano culture in Korea with the psychological transfer of the values of Confucian ethics onto the principles lying sat the core of contemporary Western musical education. Hwan Okon's conception can be considered as quite productive if one is to apply it to the entire Far-Eastern region in general. At the same time in many instances it is possible to clarify and add to, and in many cases, disagree with separate positions. M. Yoshihara in analyzing the peculiar features of selfidentification of Japanese, Korean and Chinese classical musicians, comes to the conclusion that in the majority of cases they identify themselves professionally not as representatives of a national musical culture but as members of the "supra-national community" of classical musicians. While acknowledging the validity of the American researcher's argumentation, it must be noted that in the musical activities of the performers from the Eastern Asian region one can frequently observe distinctly perceptible common stylistic features defined by genetic ties with cultural traditions of their geographical area. The issues touched upon in the aforementioned works are conditioned by systematic features of the phenomenon of the musical cultures of the countries of Eastern Asia and urgently require further elaboration. Keywords: piano, musical performance in China, Korea, Japan, musicology in the USA


ABSTRACT This paper addresses the risk of research exposing people with an immigrant background in criminal court cases to Internet-based racist persecution, due to mismanagement of general ethical guidelines. The principle of informed consent, ideally serving to protect people under study from harm may, in fact, cause them more harm due to the interest among certain Internet-based networks of spreading identifiable, degrading information. Arguments are based on ethically challenging experiences from two ethnographic research projects carried out in Swedish district court environments, focused on immigrant court cases. Ethical advice provided by ethical review boards and established research guidelines, were based on an unawareness of the potentially destructive rendezvous in media attractive immigrant court cases between 'ethically informed' research, crime journalism, freedom of information legislation and 'Internet vigilantes' on a quest to persecute court participants and their families in the global digital arena.


Oscillating Water Columns (OWC) are utilized for producing electrical energy from sea waves by exploiting the oscillation of a water column located under an air chamber for producing an air flow driving an air turbine connected to an electrical generator. The array configuration is considered in several engineering applications, where the OWCs are embedded in coastal infrastructures, such as vertical breakwaters. In this context, the water columns are likely to be placed nearby. Thus, interactions among chambers occur because of wave radiation phenomena.
 This article describes a nonlinear model governing the dynamics of an OWC array embedded in a vertical breakwater. The differential equations include effects associated with hydrodynamic memory and isentropic thermodynamics, which prohibit the derivation of an exact solution giving the OWC array response. Thus, the article develops approximate solutions determined by relying on the concept of equivalent linearization, which is applied under the assumption of both deterministic, and stochastic excitations. Juxtaposition of the approximate approach results with relevant direct numerical integration data confirm its reliability and efficiency.


Present study deals with the adsorption of Zn(II) and Ni(II) onto cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) from aqueous solution under different process conditions. The adsorption was carried out in a batch process taking different concentrations of the metal ion in aqueous solution with variation in adsorbent dose, pH and agitation time. The solution initial pH values affected metal sorption. Over the pH range of 6 9, pH-related effects were significant. Meanwhile, at lower pH values the percentage of metal removal decreased. The sorption was found to decrease with increase in initial concentration and increases with increasing adsorbent dose. The equilibrium nature of Zn (II) and Ni (II) adsorption at different metal ion concentration were described by Langmuir, Tempkin and Freundlich Isotherm. The equilibrium data indicates the following order to fit the isotherms: Freundlich > Tempkin > Langmuir. In order to evaluate kinetic parameters Lagergren's first-order, pseudo-second-order, Elovich kinetic model and intra-particle diffusion models were explored. Among the kinetic models studied, the pseudo-second-order equation was the best applicable model to describe the sorption process. FTIR spectra of the adsorbent were recorded to explore the number and position of functional groups available for the binding of Zn (II) and Ni (II) ions of the studied adsorbent.


Abstract Objective: This study explored social and behavioural factors associated with a home fortification of complementary foods program among families of undernourished children in 14 rural communities in Honduras. Design: We collected and analysed survey data from a convenience sample of 196 households participating in a nutritional program using home fortification of complementary foods in 2017. The program supplied families with a soy-based atole powder fortified with micronutrients. A research team completed a face-to-face survey exploring social and behavioural factors associated with nutritional supplement use. Anthropometric measurements for participating children were abstracted from health clinic records of previous quarterly appointments. Setting: The study took place in San Jose del Negrito, Honduras. Participants: Participants were parents or guardians of children enrolled in the nutrition program. Results: Nearly half of participant families shared the nutritional supplement with other family members besides the index child, while 10 % reported using the supplement as a meal replacement for the child. Low education level of mothers was associated with improper use of the supplement (P = 0·005). Poorer families were more likely to share the supplement (P = 0·013). Conclusions: These results highlight the challenges of programs using home fortification of complementary foods in the context of food scarcity. Findings highlight the importance of increasing rural children's overall caloric intake, perhaps by increasing access to locally available protein sources. Results also suggest transitioning nutritional programs to family-based interventions to increase overall intended compliance to nutrition programming.


Distance metric learning is a successful way to enhance the performance of the nearest neighbor classifier. In most cases, however, the distribution of data does not obey a regular form and may change in different parts of the feature space. Regarding that, this paper proposes a novel local distance metric learning method, namely Local Mahalanobis Distance Learning (LMDL), in order to enhance the performance of the nearest neighbor classifier. LMDL considers the neighborhood influence and learns multiple distance metrics for a reduced set of input samples. The reduced set is called as prototypes which try to preserve local discriminative information as much as possible. The proposed LMDL can be kernelized very easily, which is significantly desirable in the case of highly nonlinear data. The quality as well as the efficiency of the proposed method assesses through a set of different experiments on various datasets and the obtained results show that LDML as well as the kernelized version is superior to the other related state-of-the-art methods.


OBJECTIVES: To characterize primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the kidney as a differential diagnosis for Wilms tumor, and to emphasize the severity of the disease. METHODS: We report the case of a patient with a diagnosis of primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the kidney who underwent nephrectomy and complete tumor resection combined with chemotherapy. RESULTS: Initially, the response of the patient to treatment was favorable, with a few events associated with agranulocytosis resulting from the chemotherapy. Ten months after of the end of treatment, the tumor recurred in the paraspinal cervical region. CONCLUSIONS: Primitive neuroectodermal tumors involving the kidney are very rare and extremely aggressive. In such cases, the pathologist has a major role in establishing a final diagnosis through histological and immunohistochemical methods.


The Russian invasion of Ukraine has widely been seen as a failure of the international legal order, which could neither stop Russia from launching a war of aggression, nor prevent the perpetration of international crimes. In such a reading, great power politics have (once again) trumped international law. We argue instead that international law plays a crucial part in the conflict by providing a semantic infrastructure, which the opposing parties use to justify their actions, try to re-draw limits of permissible action and negotiate changing 'red lines' with the enemy. Drawing on the notion of lawfare, we show how the pragmatic (mis-)use of international law flexibly delineates boundaries and stabilizes expectations between adversaries even as they are contested in the current war. We focus on claims about self-determination and self-defence to justify the use of force; categorizations of combatants; and weapons transfers and the status of third states. That international law can be violated or reinterpreted to breaking point does not make it irrelevant. To the contrary, it recalls its important role as a language of conflict and compromise, beyond strictly legalist as well as dismissive realist views.


Practicing optometrists who have achieved Academy membership status, and, separately, optometrists who have attained unusually high incomes in practice were studied and compared with optometrists in general. Academy fellows differed from non-fellows in their greater initiative, self-confidence, independent spirit, and a pattern of interests like persons engaged in professional social service occupations. High-income optometrists were more like Academy fellows than were optometrists in general, but showed somewhat less of the leadership potential evidenced by Academy members. High-income optometrists showed more interest than other optometrists in business occupations. The findings show that personal qualities and interest patterns associated with being financially successful and with achieving Academy membership can be assessed in a meaningful and objective manner.


A mathematical model utilizing the Internal State Variable (ISV) concept is proposed for predicting the upper bound of the reduced axial stiffnesses in cross-ply lami nates with matrix cracks. The axial crack opening displacement is explicitly expressed in terms of the observable axial strain and the undamaged material properties. A crack parameter representing the effect of matrix cracks on the observable axial Young's modulus is calculated for glass/epoxy and graphite/epoxy material systems. The results of the present study show that the matrix crack opening displacement and conse quently the effective Young's modulus depends not on the crack length but on its ratio to the crack spacing. Comparisons of the present model with experimental data and other models in the litera ture show a good agreement, thus confirming direct applicability of the model to [0 p /90 r ] s type laminates.


ABSTRACT Distance education (DE) is a constantly evolving and advancing field, and as such, its intellectual network and dynamics need to be investigated and explored. In this regard, this study reviewed a total of 1685 articles and 51,940 references through social network analysis for a bibliometric examination of the DE field. The findings indicate that DE is an interdisciplinary field and part of mainstream education. The progressive knowledge domain analysis revealed that the intellectual roots of DE stem from generic social learning theories, after which DE-related theories began to emerge following the foundation of open universities. The research concludes that there was a paradigm shift that resulted from developments in online networked technologies in the 2000s, at which time DE started to gradually evolve into sixth generation ubiquitous DE.


In this article we demonstrate that a state-of-the-art machine learning model predicting whether a whole slide image contains mitosis can be fooled by changing just a single pixel in the input image. Computer vision and machine learning can be used to automate various tasks in cancer diagnostic and detection. If an attacker can manipulate the automated processing, the results can be devastating and in the worst case lead to wrong diagnostic and treatments. In this research one-pixel attack is demonstrated in a real-life scenario with a real tumor dataset. The results indicate that a minor one-pixel modification of a whole slide image under analysis can affect the diagnosis. The attack poses a threat from the cyber security perspective: the one-pixel method can be used as an attack vector by a motivated attacker.


Background: Degenerative changes in the intervertebral disc begin at the late teens and early adult life, after the completion of the physical growth and development. Lumbar disc herniation is rare in children and adolescents. The clinical presentation and etiology of lumber disc herniation may differ from that in adults. Objective: To determine the rate of lumber disc herniation among adolescents and to describe the radiological, clinical features and surgical outcomes of lumber disc herniation in a group of adolescent and young adult patients. Patients and Methods: A retrospective revision of 1045 cases of lumbar disc excisions performed at the neurosurgical unit of Erbil teaching hospital between 2001 and 2015 was done. In all cases, the diagnosis was achieved pre-operatively by lumbar spine MRI with or without CT scan. Initially all patients were treated conservatively for more than 3 months without success. The indications for surgery were failure of conservative treatment, intractable pain and/or progressive neurological impairment. Surgical posterior discectomy with fenestration or partial laminectomy or hemi-laminectomy was performed. On the day of discharge Kirkaldy-Willis criteria was used to assess the patient post-operatively. Results: Thirteen (1.22%) of the 1045 patients were adolescents and young adults between 13 and 21 years of age with a male: female ratio of 1.16: 1. Nearly 70 % of patients had a history of trauma. Lumbar back pain and radicular sciatica were the main complaints in 77% of the patients. Two patients had radicular leg pain. Only one patient of the 13 patients experienced lumbar back pain without leg pain. Only one patient was found to have neurological deficit with partial foot drop. Prior to surgical intervention, straight leg raising test was positive in all 13 patients. All of the patients had symptoms duration for more than 3 months. The radiological and surgical findings revealed a protruding disc in eleven cases, one lateral recess stenosis and one lumbar synovial cyst. Epiphyseal ring fracture was found in 4 of the 5 patients who underwent CT study. Results of Kirkaldy-Willis criteria were excellent or good in 92 % of patients. The follow-up period ranged from 4 months to 2 years with an average of 14 months. Conclusion: Young adults and adolescents disc herniation is uncommon and is often precipitated by trauma. Surgical treatment of such patients relieves clinical symptoms quickly and is associated with good and excellent results in nearly all patients.


Analysing the impact of anthropogenic and natural river barriers on the dispersal of aquatic and semi-aquatic species may be critical for their conservation. Knowledge of kinship relationships between individuals and reconstructions of pedigrees obtained using genomic data can be extremely useful, not only for studying the social organization of animals, but also inferring contemporary dispersal and quantifying the effect of specific barriers on current connectivity. In this study, we used kinship data to analyse connectivity patterns in a small semi-aquatic mammal, the Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus), in an area comprising two river systems with close headwaters and dams of various heights and types. Using a large SNP dataset from 70 specimens, we obtained kinship categories and reconstructed pedigrees. To quantify the barrier effect of specific obstacles, we built kinship networks and devised a method based on the assortativity coefficient, which measures the proportion between observed and expected kinship relationships across a barrier. The estimation of this parameter enabled us to infer that the most important barrier in the area was the watershed divide between the rivers, followed by a dam on one of the rivers. Other barriers did not significantly reduce the expected number of kinship relationships across them. This strategy and the information obtained with it may be crucial in determining the most important connectivity problems in an area and help develop conservation plans aimed at improving genetic exchange between populations of threatened species.


In this digital era, people are required to transform using e-payments. However, not all levels of society have adapted to digitalization of payments. This study aims to analyze the effect of ease of use, usefulness, and religiosity on the decision to use LinkAja Syariah. This research is a primary quantitative research. The sampling technique was carried out using purposive sampling with convenience sampling. Respondents were obtained by 123 users of the LinkAja Syariah application in the Surakarta area. Data analysis technique using multiple linear regression analysis. The results show that all construct variables consisting of convenience, usefulness and religiosity influence the decision to use LinkAja Syariah in the people of Surakarta.


Single crystals of ferroelectric triglycine sulfate (TGS) have been grown from solutions containing 10 and 30 mol% of DL-α-alanine. Crystal form, domain structure and distribution of internal bias field Eb in these DL-α-alanine-doped triglycine sulfate: (DLATGS) crystals were investigated. Although the crystal form is influenced by the doping, it shows the symmetry of 2/m similar to pure TGS. The intensity and direction of Eb distinctly depend on the crystal growth sector. The directions of Eb in matching sectors in both b sides of the seed crystal are opposite to each other. Hence the domain structure has a mirror symmetry normal to the b-axis. These features of DLATGS are plainly explained by considering the chirality of alanine and the already-known properties of LATGS.


This paper discusses both technical and project management aspects of drilling fluids services for deepwater and high pressure high temperature (HPHT) offshore drilling projects.
 The technical discussion part includes deepwater and HPHT specific fluids related concerns such as logistics, narrow drilling window, shallow hazards, gas hydrates, HPHT conditions and low temperature rheology; together with practical solutions for each of them. As some of these challenges cannot be met by only fluids itself, technologies such as managed pressure drilling (MPD), dual-gradient drilling (DGD) and use of special downhole tools are also included in the discussions.
 The project management aspect is covered for both the planning and execution phases. A newly developed Four Stage Planning Guideline (4SPG) with a recommended timetable is proposed for high-profile offshore drilling projects. Starting from fluids selection to preparation of the contingency plans is discussed in detail for the planning phase. Execution phase is discussed mainly for service company representatives on how to follow main or contingency plans effectively and ensure good communication is achieved with all parties involved.
 Work model presented in this paper can be used as a complete guideline by operating and service company representatives in order to increase the success rate of these high-risk offshore drilling projects and ensure learnings are captured in a structured way for continuous improvement.


AIM AND OBJECTIVE
This study aimed at investigating the gastro-protective effects of Algerian Sahara (Sidr) honey from Apis mellifera intermissa against HCl/Ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
Total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds were determined. Than, Three groups of rats (control, HCl/ Ethanol induced ulcer, and orally administered honey) were used for the determination of gastro protective effect of Sidr honey.

RESULTS
Total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and DPPH activity of honey sample was determined as 47.35±3.35 mg GAE/ 100 g, 2.13±0.17 mg QE/ 100 g, and 229.24±0.02 mg/mL, respectively. Oral pretreatment of rats with honey (1.2 g/Kg body weight orally at interval of 2 days) protected gastric mucosa against HCl/Ethanol induced damage by decreasing ulcer score, the volume and acidity of gastric juice and increasing pH.

CONCLUSION
These results were confirmed by the histological assessment which demonstrated a significant gastro protective activity of Saharian (Sidr) honey against HCl/Ethanol-induced stomach ulcer. Plasma tumor necrosis factor-!, IL-6 and PGE2were also measured. Sahara honeys significantly decreased the plasma TNF-!, PGE2, and IL-6 concentrations.


Introduction: When molecular and cytogenetic studies are not available, the risk stratification of AML patients will be difficult. This study was conducted to evaluate the prognostic value of IL-8 among AML patients with its relation to outcome.
Methods: This is a cross sectional study; 42 newly diagnosed AML patients (<65 years) were investigated with determination of serum IL-8 by ELISA and followed up for 36 months. In addition, 20 sex and age matched normal volunteers were included as control.
Results: In AML patients, serum IL-8 was ranging from 5 to 200 pg/mL with a mean of 76.5 pg/mL. It was significantly higher among AML patients when compared to the control (76.5 vs 32.3 pg/mL). The mean did not show any significant relationship to patients' sex or the FAB classification of AML (p>0.05). While significant higher mean was observed among poor cytogenetic risk group (110.4 pg/mL) as well as among died patients (108.8 pg/mL) and refractory patients (84.2 pg/mL). In regard to survival, among those with IL-8>40 pg/mL, the mean survival time was higher in comparison to AML patients with IL-8 ≤ 40 pg/mL (34.6 months vs 26.3 months).
Conclusion: This study concluded that serum IL-8 concentration at presentation of AML patients is high and it could be used as a marker for risk stratification for AML patients.


The activity of the type II iodothyronine 5'-deiodinase enzyme in brown adipose tissue has been examined in rats-fed a selenium-deficient diet. Iodothyronine 5'-deiodinase activity was threefold lower in brown adipose tissue of deficient rats than in control animals. The activity of glutathione peroxidase, a biochemical index of selenium deficiency, was also greatly decreased in deficient animals. Cytochrome oxidase activity in brown fat was, however, unaltered by selenium deficiency. Acute exposure to cold (4 degrees C for 18 h) resulted in a substantial increase in iodothyronine 5'-deiodinase activity in brown adipose tissue of control rats, but the stimulatory effect of cold was attenuated in selenium-deficient animals. These results support the concept that the iodothyronine 5'-deiodinases are selenium-dependent enzymes, and indicate that the thermogenic response to cold may be impaired in selenium deficiency.


We report the formation and blistering of GaAsN nanostructure layers induced by nitrogen ion implantation into GaAs followed by high-temperature rapid thermal annealing. The GaAsN nanostructure layers consist of zincblende GaN-rich GaAsN nanostructures in an amorphous matrix, apparently formed near the depth of maximum ion damage. Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy reveals a series of nanometer-sized cavities near the depth of maximum nitrogen concentration, suggesting the formation of nitrogen gas bubbles during annealing. The nitrogen bubbles coalesce and push away the GaAsN nanostructure layer, forming micrometer-sized blisters. The simultaneous formation and blistering of GaAsN nanostructure layers may provide an opportunity for the integration of the nanostructure layers with a variety of substrates.


The paper deals with the problem of finding relative values for species in the case of biodiversity conservation in a cultural landscape. We use the concept of shadow prices to derive flexible functional forms that allow us to conduct an interactive and internal valuation process. The paper is organized such as that (1) the theory of shadow price derivation is presented in a framework of programming. (2) We obtain quadratic objective functions for participant in the valuation process. (3) Quasi demand and supply functions are derived from which we can simulate a market. (5) The special role of ecologists as experts and potential managers of a landscape is ad-dressed and (6), or finally, a balanced solution on values, value oriented management, and species prevalence is provided.


An improved approach, called receiver only synchronization (ROS), relative to timing synch protocol for sensor networks (TPSN) was devised based on a two-way timing message exchange mechanism between two nodes. In ROS, all the nodes in their transmission range overhear the messages and adjust their clock parameters without having to communicate by themselves, hence saving a lot of energy. In this paper, we are proving that in ROS, one-way timing message transmission from the root node to the neighboring nodes located within its transmission range is superior to the two-way timing message exchange. Also, we are showing that choosing the more accurate model instead of the linear regression model yields further performance gains for the clock parameters estimation.


In the framework of a recently proposed method for computing exactly string amplitudes regularized in the infra-red, I determine the one-loop correlators for auxiliary fields in the symmetric $Z_2\times Z_2$ orbifold model. The $D$-field correlation function turns out to give the one-loop corrections for the gauge couplings, which amounts to a string-theory supersymmetry Ward identity. The two-point function for uncharged $F$ fields leads to the one-loop renormalization of the moduli K\"ahler metric, and eventually to the corrections for the Yukawa couplings.


Introduction The direct anterior approach (DAA) has garnered a lot of attention and surgical popularity for total hip arthroplasty in recent years. Some of the postulated advantages for the increase in popularity of this approach include better pain control and earlier recovery in the immediate postoperative period. The amount of literature available on this topic has rapidly increased over the last 10 years requiring the need for an updated guide to best navigate the topic. Methods The ISI Web of Knowledge database was used to search for research articles regarding the DAA surgical technique. The Boolean operative that yielded the largest search results was ([direct anterior approach hip] OR [anterior hip] OR [anterior hip arthroplasty] NOT [spine]). Results 92% of the highest cited articles on the DAA were published within the past two decades. One author, Keggi K, published 4 or more articles, with the highest citation average (110.5 citations). Recent articles were more strongly correlated with higher citation counts (R2 = 0.21 v. 0.19). Conclusion This review clearly outlines the increasing trend in the most influential publications regarding DAA being published in the past two decades. This review allows interested surgeons to understand the historic literature pertaining to this topic. This review can assist future researchers in identifying trends in UKA as well as help clinicians navigate this body of literature.


Ultrasound imaging is used extensively in diagnosis and image-guidance for interventions of human diseases. However, conventional 2D ultrasound suffers from limitations since it can only provide 2D images of 3-dimensional structures in the body. Thus, measurement of organ size is variable, and guidance of interventions is limited, as the physician is required to mentally reconstruct the 3-dimensional anatomy using 2D views. Over the past 20 years, a number of 3-dimensional ultrasound imaging approaches have been developed. We have developed an approach that is based on a mechanical mechanism to move any conventional ultrasound transducer while 2D images are collected rapidly and reconstructed into a 3D image. In this presentation, 3D ultrasound imaging approaches will be described for use in image-guided interventions.


This chapter analyzes the Extended Water Footprint (EWF) of the Guadalquivir basin in south of Spain. An innovative aspect is that not only the use of blue water for direct human use (irrigation, urban and industrial supply) has been taken into account but also the use of green water for the mentioned uses and the natural ecosystems; the latter amounts to 291 mm/year. The results show that agriculture is the main consumer (192 mm/year), 34% being blue water and 66% green water. Economic productivity fluctuates between less than 0.40 €/m 3 for the most traditional crops (cereals, maize, cotton and rice) and values reaching 2 €/m 3 for olives and more than 4 €/m 3 for vegetables. But the highest economic productivity is tourism (more than 200 €/m 3 ) and industries such as thermo-solar energy (50 €/m 3 ). A better water management could be achieved thanks to a reallocation of water resources between the different uses. This reallocation may occur without social conflict with the farmers since the quantities of blue water required constitute 1-2% of the current total blue water use. However, this process is much more complex since a large number of economic, social, political and environmental factors need to be considered.


This paper addresses the problem of injection of faults in the communication system of disjoint memory parallel computers and presents fault injection results showing that 5% to 30% of the faults injected in the communication subsystem of a commercial parallel computer caused undetected errors that lead the application to generate erroneous results. All these cases correspond to situations in which it would be virtually impossible to detect that the benchmark output was erroneous, as the size of the results file was plausible and no system errors had been detected. This emphasizes the need for fault tolerant techniques in parallel systems in order to achieve confidence in the application results. This is especially true in massively parallel computers, as the probability of occurring faults increase with the number of processing nodes. Moreover, in disjoint memory computers, which is the most popular and scalable parallel architecture, the communication subsystem plays an important role, and is also very prone to errors. CSFI (Communication Software Fault Injector) is a versatile tool to inject communication faults in parallel computers. Faults injected with CSFI directly emulate communication faults and spurious messages generated by non fail-silent nodes by software, allowing the evaluation of the impact of faults in parallel systems and the assessment of fault tolerant techniques. The use of CSFI is nearly transparent to the target application as it only requires minor adaptations. Deterministic faults of different nature can be injected without user intervention and fault injection results are collected automatically by CSFI.<<ETX>>


This book is an evolutionary examination of the rhetoric of the President of the United States, from George Washington to George W. Bush. It provides a close analysis of the history and content of inaugural addresses, State of the Union addresses, presidential proclamations, and executive orders in order to trace the changes in their use and impact from their origin to the present day. Content analysis of these forms of executive address are combined with case studies and illustrations to provide a complete look at the way that – contrary to the widely held ascription to a clear «traditional» versus «modern» divide – the presidents of the eighteenth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries have all contributed to the rhetorical tools and powers that the current president wields in the execution of his duty. The Evolutionary Rhetorical Presidency is widely useful not only for standard governmental classes on, for example, the Presidency or on political communication, but also for courses in history, leadership studies, and rhetoric.


In this exploratory case control study the association between stress coping strategies and lymphocyte subpopulations was calculated in 18 non-metastatic melanoma patients and 18 controls with benign skin diseases. Coping strategies were assessed using the German version of the stress-coping questionnaire (SVF 120). While in the control group patients showed significant negative correlations of lymphocyte subpopulations (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD19+, CD45+ cells) with coping strategies that refer to defence, in melanoma patients significant positive correlations between lymphocyte subpopulations (CD3+, CD4+, CD19+, CD45+ cells) were found with regard to coping strategies that are characterized by diversion from stress and focusing on stress-compensating situations. The present data, in melanoma patients and controls, show contrary correlations between stress coping strategies and lymphocyte subpopulations. The interconnection between stress coping and immunologic alterations in malignant melanoma is a field deserving further multiprofessional investigation in order to provide new therapeutical approaches in the treatment and understanding of melanoma patients.


To evaluate H2 production in the rat after ingestion of legume products as a predictive bioassay of their flatulence activity for man, responses of man and the rat to (1) a bland formula diet, (2) cooked California Small White bean (CSW) solids, (3) 70% ethanol extract of (2), (4) oligosaccharide fraction of (3), (5) non-protein nitrogen fraction of (3), and (6) combination of (4) and (5) were compared. Six human subjects were fed an 800 kcal breakfast of (1) or containing the amount of a test item equivalent to 100 g CSW. Each subject received all items once plus a single replicate of three items at the rate of one per week in random order. Total flatus volume, H2, CO2, and CH4 volumes and breath H2 concentration were measured for the interval 2.5 to 8.5 hours after breakfast. Young rats in metabolic chambers received known amounts of items 2 to 6 mixed with a bland basal diet. H2 trapped in the chambers was measured after 20 hours. Correlation of rat H2 and to human breath H2 measurements and flatus gas volumes were significant and positive except for negative correlation with flatus methane volume. Measurement of hydrogen production in the rat has potential for a predictive bioassay for flatulence in man.


Federated learning (FL) can train a global model from clients' local data set, which can make full use of the computing resources of clients and performs more extensive and efficient machine learning on clients with protecting user information requirements. Many existing works have focused on optimizing FL accuracy within the resource constrained in each individual round, however there are few works comprehensively consider the optimization for latency, accuracy and energy consumption over all rounds in wireless federated learning. Inspired by this, in this paper, we investigate FL in wireless networks where client selection and bandwidth allocation are two crucial factors which significantly affect the latency, accuracy and energy consumption of clients. We formulate the optimization problem as a mixed-integer problem, which is to minimize the cost of time and accuracy within the long-term energy constrained over all rounds. To address this optimization problem, we propose a per-round energy drift plus cost (PEDPC) algorithm from an online perspective, and the performance of the PEDPC algorithm is verified in simulation results in terms of latency, accuracy and energy consumption in IID and NON-IID data distributions.


Organisms typically change their diets ontogenetically. Recent studies have shown that an ontogenetic diet shift undermines the resilience of stage-structured food webs. Here, we study the integration of stage-structured food-web theory into theory of hybrid community (i.e. mixture of different interaction types), considering that not only diet but also interaction type often changes because of ontogenetic niche shift (e.g. the metamorphosis of pollinating insects, in which juveniles and adults are herbivores and pollinators, respectively). We developed and mathematically analysed a one-consumer two-resource model in which juvenile and adult consumers utilise different resources as antagonists and mutualists, respectively. Model analyses illustrated that the consumer either goes extinct or coexists with the resources depending on the initial condition when the resources have low carrying capacities while their community dynamics always converge to a single steady state when the resources have high carrying capacities. These dynamic features are different from those of the corresponding purely antagonistic module in previous studies, in which the consumer always goes extinct for low resource carrying capacities while the dynamics converge to either juvenile-dominated or adult-dominated state depending on the initial conditions for high resource carrying capacities. Taken together, we can suggest that ontogenetic antagonism–mutualism coupling is stabilising in that it increases the potential for species coexistence in unproductive environments while improving community resilience in productive environments. Further, these effects are generally robust to interaction nonlinearity. Beyond the previous concern of the instability in stage-structured food-webs, our results suggest that antagonism–mutualism coupling can play a crucial role in stabilising stage-structured hybrid (e.g. plant–animal) communities under environmental changes. The present study represents an important first step in understanding how interaction type diversity can mediate the dynamics of stage-structured communities.

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BACKGROUND
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) has been the gold standard of the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In recent years there has been a significant shift in the treatment of BPH and guidelines emphasize minimally invasive surgery as a new treatment option. Minimal invasive technologies (MITs), such as transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT), laser ablations, transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) have emerged as an alternative to the TURP.

OBJECTIVES
To assess the retreatment rates of the most commonly used minimal invasive techniques.

SEARCH STRATEGY
Durability articles were selected by using defined search terms using PubMed as search engine.

RESULTS
Comparing to the overall retreatment rates of MITs the results show that TUMT, holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and contact laser vaporization (CLV) are among the treatments with the lowest retreatment rates. Studies show no significant differences in retreatment rates between TUMT and TURP.

CONCLUSION
A review of the current literature, long term results and retreatment rates of MITs shows large variability in outcomes and retreatment rates. The true definition of a MIT remains unclear. High energy TUMT deserves reconsideration in clinical practices, due to low retreatment rates and the low need of anesthetics.


Sleep is required for, and sleep loss impairs, normal hippocampal synaptic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptor function and expression, hippocampal NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic plasticity, and hippocampal-dependent memory function. Although sleep is essential, the signals linking sleep to hippocampal function are not known. One potential signal is growth hormone. Growth hormone is released during sleep, and its release is suppressed during sleep deprivation. If growth hormone links sleep to hippocampal function, then restoration of growth hormone during sleep deprivation should prevent adverse consequences of sleep loss. To test this hypothesis, we examined rat hippocampus for spontaneous excitatory synaptic currents in CA1 pyramidal neurons, long-term potentiation in area CA1, and NMDA receptor subunit proteins in synaptic membranes. Three days of sleep deprivation caused a significant reduction in NMDA receptor-mediated synaptic currents compared with control treatments. When rats were injected with growth hormone once per day during sleep deprivation, the loss of NMDA receptor-mediated synaptic currents was prevented. Growth hormone injections also prevented the impairment of long-term potentiation that normally follows sleep deprivation. In addition, sleep deprivation led to a selective loss of NMDA receptor 2B (NR2B) from hippocampal synaptic membranes, but normal NR2B expression was restored by growth hormone injection. Our results identify growth hormone as a critical mediator linking sleep to normal synaptic function of the hippocampus.


SARS-CoV-2 is rapidly evolving with the continuous emergence of new mutations. There is no specific antiviral therapy for COVID-19, and the use of Remdesivir for treating COVID-19 will likely continue before clinical trials are completed. Due to the lengthening pandemic and evolving nature of the virus, predicting potential residues prone to mutations is crucial for the management of Remdesivir resistance. We used a rational ligand-based interface design complemented with mutational mapping to generate a total of 100,000 mutations and provide insight into the functional outcome of mutations in the Remdesivir-binding site in nsp12. After designing 56 residues in the Remdesivir binding site of nsp12, the designs retained 96-98% sequence identity, which suggests that SARS-CoV-2 attains resistance and develops further infectivity with very few mutations in the nsp12. We also identified affinity-attenuating Remdesivir binding designs of nsp12. Several mutants acquired decreased binding affinity with Remdesivir, which suggested drug resistance. These hotspot residues had a higher probability of undergoing selective mutations in the future to develop Remdesivir and related drug-based resistance. A comparison of 21 nsp12 Remdesivir-bound designs to the 13 EIDD-2801-bound nsp12 designs suggested that EIDD-2801 would be more effective in preventing the emergence of resistant mutations and against Remdesivir-resistance strains due to the restricted mutational landscape. Combined with the availability of more genomic data, our information on mutation repertoires is critical to guide scientists to rational structure-based drug discovery. Knowledge of the potential residues prone to mutation improves our understanding and management of drug resistance and disease pathogenesis.


Cyclopeptides or cyclic peptides are polypeptides formed by ring closing of terminal amino acids. A large number of natural cyclopeptides have been reported to be highly effective against different cancer cells, some of which are renowned for their clinical uses. Compared to linear peptides, cyclopeptides have absolute advantages of structural rigidity, biochemical stability, binding affinity as well as membrane permeability, which contribute greatly to their anticancer potency. Therefore, the discovery and development of natural cyclopeptides as anticancer agents remains attractive to academic researchers and pharmaceutical companies. Herein, we provide an overview of anticancer cyclopeptides that were discovered in the past 20 years. The present review mainly focuses on the anticancer efficacies, mechanisms of action and chemical structures of cyclopeptides with natural origins. Additionally, studies of the structure–activity relationship, total synthetic strategies as well as bioactivities of natural cyclopeptides are also included in this article. In conclusion, due to their characteristic structural features, natural cyclopeptides have great potential to be developed as anticancer agents. Indeed, they can also serve as excellent scaffolds for the synthesis of novel derivatives for combating cancerous pathologies.


Interests in water quality impacts by golf courses has grown significantly since the late 1990s mostly due to the use of pesticides or fertilizers. Results from this Investigation on seven golf courses surface water quality in Beijing indicate that ammonium and total phosphorus in the surface water of golf course seasonally exceeded the V class water limits set by Environment Quality Standards for Surface Water Quality (GB3838-2002) and had the potential impacts on the surface water quality in surrounding areas. While nitrate and nitrite concentrations in the surface water were below the limits of the above standards. Residues of Carbendazim, Chlorothalonil, Qudintozene, and Furadan were not detected in the surface water in five golf courses when using for pest and insect control.


NAFTA Chapter 11 establishes certain guarantees and an arbitral mechanism by which qualifying investors may seek damages for breach of these guarantees. This article offers an interim appraisal of the Chapter 11 investor-state arbitration regime, and the effects of this regime on NAFTA's substantive jurisprudence. The first section of the article provides an overview of NAFTA's investor-state arbitral mechanism, focusing on the broad themes of claim processing architecture, the hybrid nature (including public and private features) of Chapter 11 arbitration, the preeminence of jurisdiction-related issues, and the accessibility and importance of NAFTA jurisprudence This first section also outlines docket characteristics, the processes of NAFTA jurisprudence, reasoning methodologies, and tribunal attitudes. The second section of the article discusses popular misgivings related to the NAFTA Chapter 11 dispute resolution process, focusing on issues of standing, predictability of outcome, process transparency, tribunal accountability, effect on regulation, and the perception of alien advantage. The final section of the article discusses the various control mechanisms for Chapter 11 proceedings, outlining the positive and negative traits of these mechanisms and offering suggestions for how they can be improved. This section also discusses the system's standards for set-aside.


Objective To study the effect of estrogen on expression of matrix typeⅠ,Ⅱ,Ⅲ collagen mRNA of callus during fracture healing under osteoporosis condition and the mechanism of estrogen in improving osteoporotic fracture healing. Methods Of 168 female two-month SD rats, 112 were under two-side ovariectomy and divided randomly into 2 groups, estrogen replacement therapy immediately after ovariectomy (OVXE1) and estrogen replacement therapy after ovariectomy and fracture (OVXE2) according to the starting time of estrogen replacement therapy, and other 56 as control group (Sham-operation). In the end of left radius and in the middle of right radius, about 1 mm width bone defect was made for fracture model in all rats after 1 month. Calluses were collected at the end of 7, 14, 28, 42, 90, 120 and 180 days postoperatively. Observation of the effect of estrogen on expression of typeⅠ,Ⅱ,Ⅲ collagen mRNA of cancellous bone was done by in situ hybridization localization during osteoporotic fracture repair. Results The expression of matrix type Ⅰcollagen mRNA was increased, and more significant than that of the control group. The amount of typeⅠcollagen expression of OVXE1 was more than that of OVXE2, the expression of type Ⅲ collagen was opposite to that of typeⅠcollagen. Conclusions Estrogen may improve the process of the osteoporotic fracture healing. The more early the ERT is used, the better the process can be obtained during osteoporotic fracture healing.


: The alcoholic extracts of Zataria multiflora Boiss were evaluated for prospective antibacterial activity against gram negative and gram positive bacteria. Cefoperazone is used as antibacterial reference drug. The antibacterial activity of ethanol and methanol extracts varied from organism to organism. The inhibitory effect of both the extracts and their 50/50 combination was more pronounced against gram positive bacteria. The MIC and MBC values were in the range of 1.718-6.25 and 2.832-6.25 mg/ml, respectively. Significant (p=0.05) synergistic effect of combination of EtOH and MeOH extracts was recorded against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 while additive effect against rest of the bacterial strains. The present studies provide evidences for presence of antibacterial elements in alcoholic extracts and recommends for more exploration for it use against bacterial diseases.


In this work, a field programmable gate array (FPGA) implementation of an automobile fuel control system is presented. The engine control unit (ECU) described here uses a new technique to control fuel injection rate through indigenously developed MEMS accelerometer sensor. A simple car model is used to show efficacy of such system with a goal to optimize fuel efficiency and minimize toxic emissions. Hardware performances are provided with simulation diagrams which can be considered as feasibility study results towards a full-fledged solution.


Epidemiological studies and clinical findings have shown an association between trauma and dissociation; dissociative experiences are also more prevalent among select populations such as substance dependent individuals and criminal offenders. In the present non-systematic review, we explored the association between trauma, dissociation, and high-risk behaviors. We aimed to find if the presence of dissociative symptoms could lead us to better understand and recognize those who are prone to high-risk behaviors, among individuals exposed to psychological trauma. The present overview indicated a substantial relationship between dissociation and high-risk behaviors. We concluded that designing and establishing appropriate studies regarding the relationship between trauma, dissociation, and high-risk behaviors would enable health professionals to have a better understanding and recognition of people prone to high-risk behaviors, as well as implement more effective strategies to prevent high-risk behaviors among at-risk populations.


ABSTRACT For individuals with a chronic illness, such as type 2 diabetes, a multitude of factors may influence the ways people cope with their condition. This study compares characteristics of the illness and characteristics of a patient's romantic relationship as factors that predict coping behaviors for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Specifically, we identify illness uncertainty as a feature of chronic illness, as well as relational uncertainty and interference from partners as relationship characteristics that are associated with coping behaviors. Using Amazon Mechanical Turk, we recruited 500 participants who were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and involved in a romantic relationship to complete an online survey about the ways they manage their illness in the context of their relationship. Structural equation model results showed that relational uncertainty and partner interference were both positively associated with the perceived threat of discussing the illness, whereas the effect for illness uncertainty was nonsignificant; thus, relationship characteristics were a more robust predictor of perceived threat than illness characteristics. In turn, the perceived threat of discussing the illness was negatively associated with treatment compliance and positively associated with topic avoidance about the illness. Treatment compliance was also negatively associated with topic avoidance. Implications for health and relationships are discussed.


Cure models are a class of time-to-event models where a proportion of individuals will never experience the event of interest. The lifetimes of these so-called cured individuals are always censored. It is usually assumed that one never knows which censored observation is cured and which is uncured, so the cure status is unknown for censored times. In this paper, we develop a method to estimate the probability of cure in the mixture cure model when some censored individuals are known to be cured. A cure probability estimator that incorporates the cure status information is introduced. This estimator is shown to be strongly consistent and asymptotically normally distributed. Two alternative estimators are also presented. The first one considers a competing risks approach with two types of competing events, the event of interest and the cure. The second alternative estimator is based on the fact that the probability of cure can be written as the conditional mean of the cure status. Hence, nonparametric regression methods can be applied to estimate this conditional mean. However, the cure status remains unknown for some censored individuals. Consequently, the application of regression methods in this context requires handling missing data in the response variable (cure status). Simulations are performed to evaluate the finite sample performance of the estimators, and we apply them to the analysis of two datasets related to survival of breast cancer patients and length of hospital stay of COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care.