Research on COVID-19 has drawn the attention of scholars around the world since the outbreak of the pandemic. Several literature reviews of research topics and themes based on scientometric indicators or bibliometric analyses have already been conducted. However, topics and themes in linguistic-specific research on COVID-19 remain under-studied. With the help of the CiteSpace software, the present study reviewed linguistic research published in SSCI and A&HCI journals to address the identified gap in the literature. The overall performance of the documents was described and document co-citations, keyword co-occurrence, and keyword clusters were visualized via CiteSpace. The main topic areas identified in the reviewed studies ranged from the influences of COVID-19 on language education, and speech-language pathology to crisis communication. The results of the study indicate not only that COVID-19-related linguistic research is topically limited but also that insufficient attention has been accorded by linguistic researchers to Conceptual Metaphor Theory, Critical Discourse Analysis, Pragmatics, and Corpus-based discourse analysis in exploring pandemic discourses and texts.


The widespread popularization of stress testing and the extensive application of its results in a variety of clinical settings make it imperative that a better method than the presently used simplistic "positive" or "negative" interpretation be devised. As a step toward a comprehensive diagnostic and prognostic index based on stress tests, a simple grading system of electrocardiographic changes, together with recognition of clinical modifiers, is suggested.


Recently there has been a great deal of debate over decreased milk prices and increased input costs, which has put considerable pressure on even the most efficient of dairy farmers. Since most dairy farmers have little control over milk prices and input costs, it may be time to focus on factors that can be controlled on the dairy farm. Management, management structures and planning are often neglected areas. Improvements in basic management can result in both cost savings and profit.


Adhesive bonding is a key manufacturing technology. However, the adhesive industry suffers from a perception within certain industries that its products are a low technology commodity item and, hence, the choice of adhesive for a given application is largely based on cost alone. This is compounded by the lack of measuring techniques available to distinguish performance differences and processability.
There are many different types of processes and materials that can be involved in the manufacture of an adhesive bond. There are also many measurement and inspection methods that could, in theory, be used to improve the bonding process but are either unsuitable in practical applications or not used for many reasons. Although there are many factors influence bonding effectiveness, there are some aspects of the adhesive bonding process that are key to nearly every bonding operation. These are in the areas of flow characteristics, substrate characterisation and inspection, wetting and adsorption on surfaces, initial bond strength and cure. Some of these aspects are interlinked (e.g. flow characteristics and wetting/adsorption).
The key areas needing to be addressed, identified in this review are:

· Techniques for characterising rheology of adhesives for high rate and intermittent dispensing processes.
· Quantitative techniques for slump properties and wet strength.
· Inspection of rough and porous surfaces for suitability to bond (e.g. for roughness, porosity, surface layer strength).
· Measurement of substrate wettability, in particular to water based and hot melt adhesives.
· Measurement of adhesive spread and adsorption on surfaces.
· Determination of tack and setting rates of adhesives with transient properties (e.g. hot melts).

To be useful to industry any measurement techniques developed to meet these needs should be suitable for use on the production line or in small workshops or industrial laboratories and should depend on robust easy to use equipment. Techniques must be cost effective in order to enable industry to justify their use.


The speed of current PCs enable them to decode and play an MPEG bitstream in real-time. The encode process, however, cannot be done in real-time. This paper presents a low-cost real-time fixed point DSP implementation of an MPEG-1 layer 1 audio encoder. The DSP transmits the encoded MPEG bitstream to a PC through a standard bi-directional parallel port, which the PC can immediately save to disk. The encoder is capable of transmitting bitstreams to the PC at bit-rates from 32 kbps-320 kbps.


This article aims to clarify the attitude of the Italian Northern League (Lega Nord) toward the Catholic Church and Catholic faith, since its creation in 1991. The article examines the evolution of the party from the merger of the northern regionalist parties under the leadership of Umberto Bossi (1991–2012) until its current form and its reengineering by its new leader, Matteo Salvini, as a national(ist) League (Lega) aiming to win votes and mandates all over Italy and to become the dominant party of the Italian right. Be it under Bossi or Salvini, the Lega Nord/Lega has always opposed both the humanist teaching of the Catholic Church and mainstream Catholic social organizations, while pretending to defend the "Catholic identity" of the "North," before turning to the entire country. Under Salvini's leadership, the Lega joined forces with some rightist Catholic groups prone to complain about Pope Francis's deemed treason of the Catholic identity, and so reinforced its conservative orientation. As I will show in this article, in the medium term, the enduring success of the Lega Nord/Lega illustrates the decline of mainstream Catholicism in Italy.


Physiologically based statements on the effectivity of lysine, methionine/cystine and threonine of protein sources as well as on the requirement of these amino acids depending on performance were derived on the basis of a total of 568 N balance measurings at growing female fattening pigs in the live weight range between 30 and 50 kg (Liebert, 1986) with the application of the N utilization model by Gebhardt (1963) as well as of particular further developments by the linking of N utilization and the utilization of the respective limiting amino acid. By means of combining protein sources with known amino acid effectivity, the additivity principle for content values of effective amino acid in the feed protein (c.k) suggested as criteria was verified. On the whole, it could thus be proved that the suggested method can decisively contribute to the elaboration of a closed system of quality assessment and requirement assessment depending on performance as well as of supply covering requirements of growing pigs. The advantages in particular over the 'slope ratio' method are emphasized.


Previous estimates of transpiration resistance have been based on the stomatal resistance of only a few leaves per plant. Because the lower stomatal resistances observed in upper leaves compared to lower leaves in dense canopies could introduce sampling errors, transpiration resistance was determined in a sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] canopy by two methods based on the stomatal resistance of all the leaves on a plant and a third method based on the stomatal resistance of only the upper three leaves. Stomatal resistance was measured with the diffusion porometer. The three methods of determining transpiration resistance included: (i) harmonically averaging the stomatal resistance of all the leaves on a plant; (ii) dividing the crop canopy into layers and weighting each layer resistance by its leaf area index; and (iii) harmonically averaging the stomatal resistances of the upper three leaves of the plant. Methods 1 and Z gave almost identical estimates of transpiration resistance. When methods 1 and 3 were evaluated by the Monteith evapotranspiration model, the evapotranspiration estimate using method 1 gave closer agreement with lysimeter evapotranspiration than when method 3 was used in the model.


The time domain Poynting theorem is used to develop a complex Poynting vector that is applicable to all electromagnetic radiation fields. We find that the traditional complex Poynting vector applies to fields generated by either solenoidal, TE, or irrotational, TM, sources but not both; most antennas generate one or the other. A direct result is that the commonly accepted proof that Q of electrically small antennas is large and increases precipitously with decreasing size breaks down with mixed TE and TM modes. A compound antenna generating mixed TE and TM modes is analyzed and it is determined that the input impedance is purely resistive and independent of the electrical size; Q increases with decreasing size but not as rapidly as previously believed to be required. There is reasonable hope of obtaining an electrically small, efficient radiator of electromagnetic radiation. Difficulties in the implementation of compound antennas include control of unwanted higher order modes and the large differences between the input impedances of TE and TM sources. The significance and control of higher order modes for TE and TM radiators are discussed.


PURPOSE
To characterize the effect of repeated topical exposure to allergen in a mouse model of allergic conjunctivitis and to determine the role of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in the pathogenesis of allergic conjunctivitis.

METHODS
Wild-type BALB/c mice and IFN-gamma knockout (KO) BALB/c mice were sensitized in the footpad with short ragweed (SRW) allergen and challenged topically for seven consecutive days with SRW allergen. The number of splenic CD4(+) Th2 cells was determined by flow cytometry, and the cytokine profile of CD4(+) T cells from SRW-sensitized mice was evaluated by ELISA. The role of IFN-gamma in allergic conjunctivitis was also examined by timed in vivo neutralization with anti-IFN-gamma antibody. Allergic conjunctivitis was evaluated clinically and histopathologically.

RESULTS
Repeated topical challenge with SRW allergen induced allergic conjunctivitis that was characterized by lid edema, chemosis, redness, and tearing. Histopathological analysis revealed a marked conjunctival infiltrate that was predominantly neutrophils and eosinophils. IFN-gamma KO mice and normal mice treated with anti-IFN-gamma antibody displayed milder clinical symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis and a 70% reduction in the number of eosinophils that infiltrated the conjunctiva. Spleen cells from SRW-sensitized mice contained a large population of cells that expressed the Th2 surface marker T1/ST2 and produced IL-4, -5, and -10 and IFN-gamma after stimulation with SRW allergen.

CONCLUSIONS
Repeated topical application of SRW allergen induces a form of murine allergic conjunctivitis that mimics the human counterpart. IFN-gamma appears to contribute to the pathogenesis of murine allergic conjunctivitis at the effector phase, but not during the initial sensitization stage.


During the Joko Widodo administration in the 2014-2019 period, construction service providers received large-scale projects for infrastructure development such as government buildings, roads and other infrastructure. This has led to a drastic increase in the stock price of construction service companies. With this signal given, investors see this as an opportunity to get profit in investing. Several other factors that are considered by investors in investing, namely financial performance such as Earning per Share (EPS) and Economic Value Added (EVA). The purpose of this study is to determine the development of EPS, EVA and Stock Return, and to prove the effect of EPS and EVA on Stock Returns in BUMN construction service companies listed on the IDX in the 2014-2018 period either partially or simultaneously. This research uses descriptive quantitative method. The data used is secondary data from the financial statements of construction service companies on the IDX in the 2014-2018 period by collecting data through documentation studies and literature studies. The design of the hypothesis used is multiple regression analysis, correlation coefficient, determination coefficient, partial test and simultaneous test. The results of the research partially prove that EPS has a significant negative effect on Stock Returns, while EVA does not have a significant effect on Stock Returns. Simultaneously, EPS and EVA have a significant effect on Stock Return.


With up to 75% power saving efficiency, theoretically, with infinite phases, a novel multi-phase charge-recycling technique that does not require any external capacitor for charge conservation is proposed for the dot inversion method, to reduce AC power consumption of a TFT-LCD column driver. It is easy to implement with simple circuitry. Compared with the original circuit (without any low-power scheme) and previous low-power charge-recycling work, the proposed method, with each group of 8 data lines, decreases the power consumption about 23%-68% and 10%-18%, respectively.


Glutathione S-transferase (GST) is a superfamily enzyme which plays a major role in detoxification of xenobiotic compounds by catalyzing the conjugation of xenobiotic to cellular glutathione (GSH). GST-P is an important class of GSTs which is expressed during the early stage of life and during developmental stages. Its activity is relatively high during embryogenesis and immediately after birth and diminished in normal adult rat liver. To investigate the effects of hepatotoxic agents such as acetaminophen (APAP) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on liver GST-P in rats during postnatal age, suckling rats age (14±2 days old) were divided into groups (n=5) and treated with both APAP (250 or 450 mg/kg B.W) and AFB1 (3 mg/kg B.W). Livers were removed at different time intervals (2, 6, 12, 18 and 24 h) and processed for GST and GST-P activity at protein and mRNA levels (RT-PCR). Administration of a single high dose of AFB1 (3 mg/kg BW) and APAP (450 mg/kg BW) to weanling rats caused a significant (P< 0.05) induction in total GST activity in developing rats. Based on the Western blotting technique and GST-P specific mRNA amplification by RT-PCR, the GST-pi protein level and its expression were not affected by APAP or AFB1. Despite the inducible effects of AFB1 and APAP on liver total GST activity, GST-P remained unaffected in response to the drugs at protein and mRNA levels.


Perineum could stitch could cause discomfort and pain impact turned into pathological rapidly. A perineal injury is easily infected and therefore requires higher care and also many factors that affect healing. The research objective was to determine the effect of Kegel exercises on the duration of second degree perineal wound healing in postpartum mothers in Dinoyo Village - Jatirejo - Mojokerto. The study design used is pre-experimental design using a design Posttest-Only Design. Dependent Variables that Kegel exercises and independent variables that long recuperation perineal wounds. The population of all postpartum mothers with perineal wound degree II in Dinoyo village obtained a sample of 13 postpartum mothers taken using the consecutive technique sampling. Then do the process of editing, coding, scoring, tabulating and served with a frequency table. The results showed that nearly all respondents a long recuperation perineal wound degree II relatively fast that is 12 respondents (92,3%). The more routine Kegel exercises can be done to accelerate the process of wound recuperation of the perineal.


ABSTRACT Introduction Toxoplasma gondii is a prolific apicomplexan parasite that infects human and nonhuman animals worldwide and can cause severe brain and eye disease. Safer, more effective therapies for toxoplasmosis are needed. Cytochrome bc 1 inhibitors are remarkably effective against toxoplasmosis and other apicomplexan-caused diseases. Areas covered This work reviews T. gondii cytochrome bc 1 inhibitors. Emphasis is placed on the structure–activity relationships of these inhibitors with regard to efficacy, pharmacokinetics, selectivity of T. gondii cytochrome bc 1 over host, safety, and potential therapeutic strategies. Expert opinion Cytochrome bc 1 inhibitors are highly promising compounds for toxoplasmosis that have been effective in clinical and preclinical studies. Clinical experience with atovaquone previously validated cytochrome bc 1 as a tractable drug target and, over the past decade, optimization of cytochrome bc 1 inhibitors has resulted in improved bioavailability, metabolic stability, potency, blood–brain barrier penetration, and selectivity for the T. gondii cytochrome bc 1 over the mammalian bc 1. Recent studies have demonstrated preclinical safety, identified novel therapeutic strategies for toxoplasmosis using synergistic combinations or long-acting administration and provided insight into their role in chronic infection. This research has identified drug candidates that are more effective than clinically used drugs in preclinical measures of efficacy.


Violence in schools (bullying) has repeatedly been in the focus of societal discussions. Public health studies were primarily conducted in secondary schools. This study is the first one in Germany which informs about experiences with violence, practicing violence and attitudes towards violence in primary school children in Hamburg. In November 2005, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in which 1154 primary school children of the third and fourth grade answered a quantitative questionnaire concerning the above issues. In addition to bi- and multivariate analysis, Structural Equation Modelling was conducted to analyse the association between the main latent outcome variables bullying and quality of life. The results show that bullying in primary schools is a common problem. 20% of the third and fourth graders reported having been bullied at least once a week. 5–7% of children admitted to have bullied someone once a week. 25% of the school children reported feeling a low subjective quality of life. While school climate and social support by friends and peers was associated with bullying, gender and socioeconomic conditions did not show any significant association. Only 50% of pupils reported that they would inform adults about their current bullying situation. In conclusion, to improve the violence situation in schools factors influencing the school climate particularly the relationship between teachers and students, needs to be enhanced because these factors in turn influence the social support between the children, thereby preventing or decreasing bullying experiences and improving the subjective quality of life in children.


This line from George Eliot's 1859 novel Adam Bede, reflecting on the thoughts of young, naive country girl Hetty Sorrel as she falls in love with the older, wiser and wealthier gentleman Captain Arthur Donnithorne, provides an indicative point from which to begin a discussion of sex, courtship and marriage in Victorian literature and culture, opening up many of the ideological tensions and wider cultural resonances that these terms and their intersections produced. In the naivety of Hetty's innocent unknowing and shapeless expectations, Eliot signals the problem of ignorance about sex prevalent among young women in the period; in the assertion that 'a novel' would provide Hetty with a guide to understanding, we are reminded of the centrality of courtship and marriage in structuring many novels of the period, as well as the cultural work that literature played in 'shaping' the ideas of its readers


Objective: Although
antidepressants are the recommended first-line pharmacological treatments for
depressive and anxiety disorders, their prescribing patterns have not been
studied in Singapore. We investigate antidepressant prescription patterns for
outpatients with depressive and anxiety disorders in a general hospital in
Singapore. We hypothesize that intolerance
to side effects and lack of efficacy may contribute to medication switching,
and that initiation of antidepressant therapy is not easily tolerated. Methods:
A retrospective review of the casenotes of outpatients was carried out between
January 2013 and December 2013. A total of 206 patients were randomly selected.
The study was approved by the hospital's institutional review board. Data
analysis was carried out using SPSS version 18. Results: There were more
females than males (ratio 1.7:1) with a mean age of 50.6 ± 15.2 years.
Depressive disorder, comprising 50% of the sample, was the most frequent
diagnosis followed by anxiety disorder (27.2%), mixed anxiety-depression (16%)
and adjustment disorder (5.8%). Almost all patients (97.1%) were prescribed
antidepressants, the most common being selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
(SSRI) (75.5%), followed by the noradrenaline and specific serotonin
antidepressant (NaSSA) (13.5%) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) (8.5%).
Patients prescribed SSRIs tended to be younger and better educated (p = 0.0005).
More than half of the patients (52.1%) required antidepressant switching mainly
due to lack of efficacy and intolerance of side effects. Combination therapy
was prescribed for 17% of patients with SSRI-NaSSA, the most preferred
combination. Nearly a quarter (23.8%) patients required augmentation therapy
with atypical antipsychotics. Combination (p = 0.024) and augmentation (p =
0.033) were utilized more often for depression than for anxiety disorders.
Conclusion: Antidepressant medications are commonly prescribed for depression
and anxiety disorders. The main reasons for switching antidepressants were
intolerance and lack of efficacy. That about half of the patients reported side
effects necessitating medication change confirmed our hypothesis that antidepressant
therapy was not easy to initiate. This has important implications for treatment
adherence and outcome.


The divisions of the typical army maintenance organization's tasks in wartime are discussed.Two distribution models of armored equipment maintenance objects are presented:one is calculated by maintenance workload and the other is calculated by maintenance time.Combined with the division of maintenance time limit for the land force's maintenance institutions,the probability distribution of the maintenance object which is produced from the typical armored equipment's technical failure and battle damage in every repair organization is obtained.A new way for the study of the distribution law of battle damage is supplied,which has an active function to improve the accuracy of technical support program.


Various modifications of the profile likelihood have been proposed in the literature. Despite modified profile likelihood methods have better properties than those based on the profile likelihood, the signed likelihood ratio statistic based on the modified profile likelihood has a standard normal distribution only to first order, and it can be inaccurate in particular in models with many nuisance parameters. In this paper we propose an adjustment of the profile likelihood from a new perspective. The idea is to resort to suitable default priors on the parameter of interest only to be used as non-negative weight functions in order to modify the modified profile likelihood. In particular, we focus on matching priors, i.e. priors on the parameter of interest only for which there is an agreement between frequentist and Bayesian inference, derived from modified profile likelihoods. The proposed modified profile likelihood has desiderable inferential properties: the corresponding signed likelihood ratio statistic is standard normal to second order and the correponding maximizer is a refinement of the maximum likelihood estimator, which improves its small sample properties. Examples illustrate the proposed modified profile likelihood and outline its improvement over its counterparts.


Several species of southeastern amphibians completely or facultatively depend upon small, ephemeral isolated ponds for reproduction, and inhabit surrounding uplands for much of their adult lives. However, spatio-temporal dynamics of pond use is little known. Since 1994, eight ephemeral ponds embedded within frequently (n=4) or infrequently (n=4) burned longleaf pine uplands in the Ocala National Forest, Florida, have been continuously sampled for herpetofaunal use. Drift fences were spaced to encircle 50% of each pond. Pitfall and funnel traps were positioned to detect directional movement to and from ponds. Breeding attempts and success was highly variable among species, ponds and years. Although patterns cannot be determined in four years, some trends in reproductive output were observed. Some species are produced in enormous quantities every few years, and from a fraction of available ponds (spadefoot toads, Scaphiopus ho/brook@ Others are produced in moderate numbers more consistently among years and ponds (leopard frogs, R. utricularia and Florida gopher frogs, R. capita). Yet others produce in smaller numbers every few years, and only from a few of seemingly available ponds. Apparently complex interactions between abiotic factors (weather, hydroperiod), underwater interactions (competition, predation) that vary among ponds, and life history traits result in complex local metapopulation dynamic6 that differ among species. Clearly, multiple isolated, ephemeral ponds within a landscape may be required to maintain amphibian populations in longleaf pine-wiregrass sandhills.


According to Marshall McLuhan's theory of media, in which he claims that the media have become prostheses of human senses, nowadays we are witnessing the growing domination of mobile devices over most human activities in daily life. Why are social media so important in our lives? There are growing groups of application developers who offer brand new solutions which on the one hand can help us in our daily lives, but on the other they have a potential to disturb them, too. Some of these solutions offer a very interesting option of creating the so-called augmented reality, which enables us to gain access to a lot more data existing and circulating in our surroundings. Even social media can be used in addition to real architecture for building a new spectrum of impressions related to a place or city. It is the time for competition in which creativity can show us a new scenario for the future. The article is a subjective set of selected cases demonstrating the use of technology in devices, such as smartphones or tablets, and the potential of applications which use cellular networks to transmit data. They can be used for redefinition of the concept of experiencing the city and urban structures. This viral experience can shape new relationships and dependencies between people, media content, social network and urban spaces. How far will we go in the future? Which of these new phenomena will prove to be unimportant and will disappear as unnecessary? Gradually, as time goes by, we will find out.
The city as a collective living structure is the place of producing experience and consuming art which is based on the urban scale as the background for acting pedestrians; it may be seen as a kind of a digital game. The presented content may lead to the conclusion that, as humans, we are dependent or at least very attached to new technologies that allow us to define our identities and the position in the progress of civilisation.


Virulence in the opportunistic human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is controlled by cell density via diffusible signalling molecules ('autoinducers') of the N-acylhomoserine lactone (AHL) type. Two Bacillus sp. isolates (A23 and A24) with AHL-degrading activity were identified among a large collection of rhizosphere bacteria. From isolate A24 a gene was cloned which was similar to the aiiA gene, encoding an AHL lactonase in another Bacillus strain. Expression of the aiiA homologue from isolate A24 in P. aeruginosa PAO1 reduced the amount of the quorum sensing signal N-oxododecanoyl-L-homoserine lactone and completely prevented the accumulation of the second AHL signal, N-butyryl-L-homoserine lactone. This strongly reduced AHL content correlated with a markedly decreased expression and production of several virulence factors and cytotoxic compounds such as elastase, rhamnolipids, hydrogen cyanide and pyocyanin, and strongly reduced swarming. However, no effect was observed on flagellar swimming or on twitching motility, and aiiA expression did not affect bacterial adhesion to a polyvinylchloride surface. In conclusion, introduction of an AHL degradation gene into P. aeruginosa could block cell-cell communication and exoproduct formation, but failed to interfere with surface colonization.


Several applications in tissue engineering require transplantation of cells embedded in appropriate biomaterial scaffolds. Such structures may consist of 3D non-woven fibrous materials whereas little is known about the impact of mesh size, pore architecture and fibre morphology on cellular behavior. In this study, we have developed polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) non-woven scaffolds with round, trilobal, or snowflake fibre cross section and different fibre crimp patterns (10, 16, or 28 needles per inch). Human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) from adipose tissue were seeded in parallel on these scaffolds and their growth was compared. Initial cell adhesion during the seeding procedure was higher on non-wovens with round fibres than on those with snowflake or trilobal cross sections. All PVDF non-woven fabrics facilitated cell growth over a time course of 15 days. Interestingly, proliferation was significantly higher on non-wovens with round or trilobal fibres as compared to those with snowflake profile. Furthermore, proliferation increased in a wider, less dense network. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that the MSCs aligned along the fibres and formed cellular layers spanning over the pores. 3D PVDF non-woven scaffolds support growth of MSCs, however fibre morphology and mesh size are relevant: proliferation is enhanced by round fibre cross sections and in rather wide-meshed scaffolds.


Two trials were conducted to assess the effects of tributyrin (TB) supplementation on ruminal microbial protein yield and fermentation characteristics in adult sheep. In an in vitro trial, substrate was made to offer TB at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 g/kg on a dry matter (DM) basis and incubated for 48 hr. In an in vivo trial, 45 adult ewes were randomly assigned by initial body weight (55 ± 5 kg) to five treatments of nine animals over an 18-day period. Total mixed ration was made to offer TB to ewes at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 g/kg on a DM basis. The in vitro trial showed that TB enhanced apparent degradation of DM (p = .009), crude protein (p < .001), neutral detergent fiber (p = .007) and acid detergent fiber (p = .010) and increased methanogenesis (p < .001), respectively. The in vivo trial showed that TB decreased DM intake (p < .001) and enhanced rumen microbial N synthesis (p < .001), respectively. Both in vitro and in vivo trials showed that TB increased total volatile fatty acid concentration and enhanced fibrolytic enzyme activity. The results indicated that TB might exert positive effects on microbial protein yield and fermentation in the rumen.


OBJECTIVE
To present a case of solitary pelvic kidney with congenital absence of the vagina.

METHODS
A patient with solitary pelvic kidney and vaginal aplasia is described. Patient evaluation included hematological, hormonal, cytogenetic, laparoscopic and imaging studies.

RESULTS
Blood, hormone and cytogenetic studies were normal. Laparoscopy showed absence of the uterus and both tubes and ovaries, which was confirmed by pneumopyelography. IVP showed absence of renal shadows and a solitary pelvic kidney.

CONCLUSIONS
Congenital absence of the vagina should be suspected in a patient with a pelvic solitary kidney consulting for primary amenorrhea.


The thermal limitations of induction motors are specified by thermal limit curves that are plots of the limiting temperature of the rotor and stator in units of l2t. This paper discusses the thermal protection provided by rotor and stator thermal models defined by the thermal limit curves and supporting motor data. The thermal model is the time-discrete form of the differential equation for temperature rise due to current and is derived from fundamental principles as shown in the appendix. The rotor model derives the slip-dependent l2r watts using voltage and current that permit the safe starting of high-inertia drive motors. The performance of the models is shown in constant and cyclic load tests


Background: Varicocele, an abnormal dilatation and tortuosity of the pampiniform plexus of veins is found in about 15% of the general population with a marked left sided predominance. However this incidence rises to 35% in men with primary infertility and 70 to 80% in men with secondary infertility.
Methods: Hospital based prospective study conducted on 100 cases reporting to General surgery department within the study duration and eligible as per inclusion criteria was included in study.
Results: In our study out of Out of 100 patients maximum 42.00% patients were farmer followed by 22.00% patients were Coolies and Rickshaw Pullers, 17.00% patients were students, 10.00% were laborer and 9.00% were policemen.
Conclusion: It conclude that Varicocele epidemiology remains incompletely understood. We need well‑designed, large‑scale studies that include evaluation of important clinical factors to comprehend fully the epidemiological aspects of this condition.


Cities serve a significant role as engines of sustainable development. They account for nearly half of the global population and about two-thirds of energy demand. Rapid urbanisation is placing significant constraints on cities' energy infrastructure, which in turn is constraining growth. This report is a summary of findings from an analysis of rooftop solar PV potential and energy efficiency conducted in Cairo and Alexandria as the largest energy demand centers in Egypt. It is the conclusion of a technical assistance (TA) program between the World Bank and the Government of Egypt (GoE). The objective of the program is to identify feasible renewable energy (RE) and energy efficiency (EE) interventions which could be implemented in cities in order to contribute towards alleviating energy shortages. It provides quick summary of the key applicable interventions based on their energy efficiency and rooftop solar PV potential, and the political and economic environment in the country. The results presented are based on a rapid assessment using TRACE 2.0, an analysis which was produced using data and information available for the year 2015. The report is structured such that this introduction briefly describes the TRACE 2.0 methodology, and the high-level findings from the TA. The key interventions are then described starting with the public buildings sector, followed by the commercial buildings sector, the residential sector, potable water sector, lighting sector and concluding with the transportation sector.


The purpose of this study was to provide a performance guide and brief biographical sketch for Dan Forrest's Sonata for Trombone and Piano. Daniel Ernest Forrest, Jr. (b. 1978), a 21st century composer, is known primarily for his choral compositions. In 2005, Forrest composed this sonata and performed the piano score on the premiere of the sonata with Paul Overly, Professor of Trombone at Bob Jones University. The study focuses on the creation of a performance guide for the Sonata for Trombone and Piano. Included in the document are specific suggestions for the trombonist and the pianist for each of the three movements of the sonata. The performance guide is a result of personal aural and score study, collaborative rehearsals with pianists and trombone players familiar with the work, and an interview with the composer. This sonata, although relatively obscure in the body of Forrest's compositions and trombone literature, reflects a mature level of compositional understanding, includes musical nuance and style, and contains significant performance challenges for both the soloist as well as the accompanist. The potential for Forrest's Sonata for Trombone and Piano to become standard in the trombone solo repertoire is substantial. Increased knowledge of the Sonata for Trombone and Piano will add to the recognition of this composition as a work deserving a place within standard trombone solo literature.


Within the nonparametric regression model with unknown regression function $l$ and independent, symmetric errors, a new multiscale signed rank statistic is introduced and a conditional multiple test of the simple hypothesis $l=0$ against a nonparametric alternative is proposed. This test is distribution-free and exact for finite samples even in the heteroscedastic case. It adapts in a certain sense to the unknown smoothness of the regression function under the alternative, and it is uniformly consistent against alternatives whose sup-norm tends to zero at the fastest possible rate. The test is shown to be asymptotically optimal in two senses: It is rate-optimal adaptive against H\"{o}lder classes. Furthermore, its relative asymptotic efficiency with respect to an asymptotically minimax optimal test under sup-norm loss is close to 1 in case of homoscedastic Gaussian errors within a broad range of H\"{o}lder classes simultaneously.


In this paper, we estimate a stochastic-dynamic model for domestic violence using data collected by the Minneapolis Domestic Violence Experiment. Our primary finding is that arrest deters domestic violence, but the effect wears off quite quickly. We find also that current employment for the male is associated with lower levels of violence. Like arrest, the effect of employment is transitory. If the male becomes unemployed, the level of violence will increase quite rapidly. Violence in one period is associated with higher probabilities of violence in subsequent periods. From a methodological perspective, our results suggest that policy evaluation and deterrence research would benefit from using models that allow examination of the dynamic path of intervention effects. The effect of private and social programs need not be constant over time, and applying traditional, static models that necessarily impose such an assumption may produce misleading results. For Minneapolis, static models produced the result `arrest works.' The dynamic model suggests a different conclusion `arrest buys us a little time.'


Background An audience response system (ARS) is an electronic classroom communication device. There are several educational justifications for using ARS. Our controlled study investigated whether ARS use was associated with improved performance on a course exam. Method This study used exam scores as the outcome and employed a switching replication design with a paired-samples t test analysis. The control and experimental groups differed only on whether students were expected to use ARS to enter data during lectures. Results The average scores on questions when ARS was used were statistically similar to scores when ARS was not used. A sign test on difference scores confirmed the result. Statistical power was adequate to detect at least a small effect size. Conclusions Improvements in test scores found in previous studies may have been due to the inclusion of questions in the lecture rather than the use of ARS. Embedding questions into lectures is beneficial, either with or without ARS technology.


Objective: To assess the effect of combined chemotherapy on levels of Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH). Method: This is a prospective cohort study on 12 non-gynecologic cancer women aged 20 - 40 years who received combined chemotherapy treatment. AMH levels and menstrual pattern before and after three months of chemotherapy were examined. The relationships between age, chemotherapy regimens and the cumulative doses on the change of AMH were also analyzed. Result: The median age of subjects was 37 years (range 20 - 40 years). Pre chemotherapy AMH analysis revealed an inverse correlation between age and AMH levels (r = -0.715; p = 0.009). AMH levels after 3 months of combined chemotherapy drastically declined to 84.6% (p = 0.002). Multivariate analysis indicated that age and total cumulative dose were the main factors contributing to the AMH levels reduction (r = -0.679; p = 0.002 and r = 0.405; p = 0.027). Ten of 12 subjects (83.3%) experienced amenorrhea after 3 months of chemotherapy and had lower level of pre and postchemotherapy AMH compared to those who still maintained normal periods (p = 0.03 and 0.02). Conclusion: AMH levels in non-gynecological cancer women who received combined chemotherapy decreased dramatically after 3 months of chemotherapy. Main factors that contribute to this were the cumulative dose and age. Most of these subjects experienced amenorrhea after 3 months of chemotherapy. [Indones J Obstet Gynecol 2010; 34-3: 119-24]


Based on the general relativistic theory, an investigation on the polytropic fluid spheres with negative index is made. The difference between classical gravitational theory and the relativistic one is measured by a parameter σ, which is the ratio of pressure to density at the center of the sphere. The relativistic Emden functions for n<0 are obtained by numerical integration. For -1<n<0, the fluid spheres are finite, but it is unstable. The larger the value of σ, the smaller the radius of equilibrium would be. For -∞<n<-1, the polytropic fluid sphere with negative index has no finite solution of equilibrium. The stability under external pressure is discussed as well. It shows that the critical radius of stable structure red* increases with the value of σ.


Article describes developed hardware-software complex of machine vision system for assessment of firing process parameters in rotary cement kilns. Authors developed method of firing process image recognition, allowing automatically real-time assessment of the firing process in three parameters: dust, state of the material and state of the torch.Its program implementation was performed.Authors made the selection of the number of hidden layer neurons of the network trained by extreme learning machine (ELM)provided the maximum average parameters classification accuracy. Advantage of ELM for the classification of the firing process parameters compared to the other methods was showed.Comparison of functionality of the proposed system with analogs was performed and showed its advantages. Developed machine vision system is being tested at the cement kiln CJSC "Oskolcement" (Russia, Stary Oskol).Possible positive effectsof machine vision system applicationwas showed: enhancing work efficiency of kiln operators, reducing the number of accidents and damage of kiln, as well as reducing of fuel consumption.


The purpose of this study was to re-assess the energy cost of track cycling in order (a) to compare the one-hour world records at sea-level and altitude with classical bicycles or with modern bicycles including aerodynamic components, and (b) to estimate the optimal altitude to set a new one-hour world record. Energy cost of track cycling with a classical or aerodynamic bicycle was estimated according to the equation developed by di Prampero et al. (1979) using data from Davies (1980) for the rolling resistance coefficient and from Gross et al. (1983) for the aerodynamic resistance coefficient for each type of bicycle. When compared to the classical track-bicycle, and to the bicycle studied by di Prampero et al. (1979), the aerodynamic track-bicycle reduces the resistance coefficient by 11.7 and 16.9% respectively. According to these estimations the cyclists sustain 87-95% of maximal aerobic power over one hour, which is a likely value for a 60 min exercise period for top-level athletes. When the reduction of air density and of maximal aerobic power with altitude are taken into account, equivalences between performances achieved at different altitudes and with the two types of track-bicycles, can be computed. The best overall performance appears to be the current one-hour record at sea-level using an aerodynamic bicycle (Moser: 50.644 km.h-1). This performance is equivalent to 53.5 km.h-1 in Mexico City (2230 m), 54.4 km.h-1 in La Paz (3417 m) and 54.5 km.h-1 at 3843 m (472 mmHg), which would be the optimal altitude to set the record.


the human condition. Despite our over-reliance on an increasingly biological perspective, psychedelic therapy can perhaps offer a more reflective vision for the future. Contemporary neuroimaging using psychedelics is enlightening that elusive territory between cognitions and their biological substrate, offering modern confrontation of Cartesian duality. Each year the subject of psychedelic research edges ever closer to the mainstream and for those still yet to have their minds opened, this book is as good a place to start as any.


This article explores the role of the cytolytic membrane attack complex of complement in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases. Evidence of nucleated cell resistance to lysis by the membrane attack complex and the stimulation of secretion of pro-inflammatory factors in the absence of cell death in a variety of cell types in vitro are documented, and the possible significance of these non-lethal effects to the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases highlighted.


Protein phosphorylation is a central biological mechanism for cellular adaptation to environmental changes. Dysregulation of phosphorylation signaling is implicated in a wide variety of diseases. Thus, the ability to detect and quantify protein phosphorylation is highly desirable for both diagnostic and research applications. Here we present a general strategy for detecting phosphopeptide–protein interactions in Escherichia coli. We first redesign a model tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) protein to recognize phosphoserine in a sequence-specific fashion and characterize the interaction with its target phosphopeptide in vitro. We then combine in vivo site-specific incorporation of phosphoserine with split mCherry assembly to observe the designed phosphopeptide–protein interaction specificity in E. coli. This in vivo strategy for detecting and characterizing phosphopeptide–protein interactions has numerous potential applications for the study of natural interactions and the design of novel ones.


In this era of globalization, information technology has developed rapidly along with the increasing human needs. The traffic of goods, services, and information can be accessed through internet services and communication media without any limitation of time and place. User satisfaction is the overall evaluation of the user experience in using the information system and the potential impact of the information system. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of system quality, information quality, and service quality on SIDJP user satisfaction at KPP Pratama Padang. The number of samples in this study were 72 respondents. In collecting data using a questionnaire. The data analysis method used in this research is multiple linear regression. Based on the results of the study indicate that the quality of the system, the quality of information, and the quality of services have a positive and significant effect on the satisfaction of SIDJP users.
 Keywords: User satisfaction, SIDJP, system quality, information quality, service quality


AbstractThe objectives of the library catalogue are examined. According to the Paris agreement, the catalogue should be an efficient instrument for ascertaining whether the library holds a particular book, which works of a particular author, and which editions of a work are located in the library. The differences between a literary and bibliographic unit is also indicated. We would like to find out whether these objectives serve library users as well as which objective is more important: finding or collocation.


The recent development of Web‐of‐Things (WoT) and Cyber–Physical Systems (CPS) raises a new requirement of connecting abstract computational artifacts with the physical world. This requires both new theories and engineering practices that model cyber and physical resources in a unified framework, a challenge that few current approaches are able to tackle. The solution must break the boundary between the cyber world and the physical world by providing a unified infrastructure that permits integrated models addressing issues from both worlds simultaneously. This paper proposes a framework to integrate WoT and CPS. A case study is presented to demonstrate the advantage of the framework. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


Objectives: This study was conducted to analyze problems and priority of university health services through analysis of health promotion programs and administrative system of university health clinics. Methods: In first telephone survey, 349 colleges and universities nationwide were surveyed to find out whether they operate health clinic or not. The administrative system and health promotion services of university health clinics were analyzed in 198 schools which had health clinic in it. Results: 160 schools were included in the final analysis. The most common name of university health clinic was 'health clinic' (35.2%), and heads of 52 university health clinics were non-medical school professors. 20.9% of the school provided details of the rules and implement guidelines of health care service. Health promotion services of university health clinic were set the non-smoking area (90.6%), health counseling (81.8%), providing health information (74.8%), health check-up (65.4%), health education (61.4%), partnership with health institutions in a community (61.4%), and immunization (48.1%) in order of that. Conclusion: It is urgent to establish the regulatory and guidelines for university health clinic. Each member of school should have interests in their health clinic and acknowledge health promotion services which they can get at the university health clinic.


Brucellosis is a bacterial disease that affects elk, bison and domestic cattle.  Recently the seroprevalence of brucellosis in free-ranging elk populations of Montana has increased and its' range has expanded, resulting in increased pressure on Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) to manage the disease in elk.  In 2010 MFWP and the Montana Department of Livestock initiated a targeted surveillance program to delineate the current geographic distribution of brucellosis, document spatio-temporal habitat selection and movement patterns, and to quantify potential transmission risk from elk to cattle.  Since 2010, we have targeted 11 different winter ranges from 9 hunt districts, both within and outside of the Designated Surveillance Area used to manage cattle.  During each capture operation we tested approximately 100 adult female elk for exposure to brucellosis.  We deployed GPS radiocollars on a subsample of adult female elk on each winter range.  An epidemiological summary of the first five years, including seroprevalence, movement and implications for transmission vectors will be presented. Current brucellosis exposure in domestic herds, future surveillance areas, evaluation of various management actions on transmission risk, and the creation of a spatio-temporal risk model are discussed.


Reverse Hill-Sachs deformity is a term for a linear impression fracture of the anteromedial humeral head caused by a posterior shoulder dislocation, which is an extremely rare subtype of shoulder dislocations and caused by an epileptic seizure, an electric shock or trauma. Herein, we illustrate the findings of bone pinhole study, MRI and fused SPECT/MR imaging of reverse Hill-Sachs deformity caused by posterior shoulder dislocation after motor cycle accident in a 41-year-old man.


Transplantation of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is a potential therapy for cerebral ischemia. Although BMSCs‐induced angiogenesis is considered important for neurological functional recovery, the neurorestorative mechanisms are not fully understood. We examined whether BMSCs‐induced angiogenesis enhances cerebral tissue perfusion and creates a suitable microenvironment within the ischemic brain, which in turn accelerates endogenous neurogenesis and leads to improved functional recovery. Adult female rats subjected to 2 h middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) were transplanted with a subpopulation of human BMSCs from male donors (Flk‐1+ hBMSCs) or saline into the ipsilateral brain parenchymal at 3 days after MCAO. Flk‐1+ hBMSCs‐treated rats exhibited significant behavioral recovery, beginning at 2 weeks after cerebral ischemia compared with controls. Moreover, rats treated with Flk‐1+ hBMSCs showed increased glucose metabolic activity and reduced infarct volume. Flk‐1+ hBMSCs treatment significantly increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, promoted angiogenesis, and facilitated cerebral blood flow in the ischemic boundary zone. Further, Flk‐1+ hBMSCs treatment enhanced proliferation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) in the subventricular zone and subgranular zone of the hippocampus. Finally, more NSPCs migrated toward the ischemic lesion and differentiated to mature neurons or glial cells with less apoptosis in Flk‐1+ hBMSCs‐treated rats. These data indicate that angiogenesis induced by Flk‐1+ hBMSCs promotes endogenous neurogenesis, which may cause functional recovery after cerebral ischemia.


This paper aims to answer the following research question: "How can multigraded classes of the Youth and Adult Education, combined with the use of technologies, contribute to the teaching-learning process?". To do so, it aims to investigate the contributions of multigrade classes and the use of digital didactic resources in the teaching-learning process of the student of the Young and People Education. Regulated by specific legislation, Young People and Adult Education has been widespread as an important means of inclusion in recent years. However, in some institutions it is allied to the reality of multigraded teaching, which involves students from different grades in the same classroom. Recent research, shows the challenges faced by teachers in working Young People and Adult classes. This research is qualitative and it was used a bibliographic research and semi-structured interview in a sample of 20 high school students of multigraded classes of the Youth and Adult Education modality of one branch of the SESI/RJ School. The conclusions pointed to a positive evaluation of the junction between EJA, multiseriate and digital didactic resources.


This paper proposes controller of leader robot considering following robot with input constraints based on leader-following approach. In the previous formation control researches, it was assumed that leader and follower is same object. If leader robot drives as maximum speed that the initial position errors still remain even if following robot have same velocity as a leader. In the situation that velocity of following robot is lower than its leader robot, following robot cannot follow leader robot. Furthermore, the following robot will not be able to made formation with leader robot and keep proximity communication or sensing range. Therefore, multiple mobile robot system using leader-following method should be guaranteed range to get information each other. In this paper, Leader robot is driving to goal position using linear controller and following robot is following trajectory to be made from leader robot. We assume that following robot has input constraints to realize different performance between leader robot and following robot. We design controller of leader robot for desired goal position including the errors between formation and following robot. Thus, we propose leader robot controller considering input constraints of following robot. Finally, we were able to confirm the validity of the proposed method based on simulation results.


This paper analyzes Milton Friedman's (1968) article "The Role of Monetary Policy," via a discussion of seven fallacies concerning the article. These fallacies are: (1) "The Role of Monetary Policy" was Friedman's first public statement of the natural rate hypothesis. (2) The Friedman-Phelps Phillips curve was already present in Samuelson and Solow's (1960) analysis. (3) Friedman's specification of the Phillips curve was based on perfect competition and no nominal rigidities. (4) Friedman's (1968) account of monetary policy in the Great Depression contradicted the Monetary History's version. (5) Friedman (1968) stated that a monetary expansion will keep the unemployment rate and the real interest rate below their natural rates for two decades. (6) The zero lower bound on nominal interest rates invalidates the natural rate hypothesis. (7) Friedman's (1968) treatment of an interest-rate peg was refuted by the rational expectations revolution. The discussion lays out the reasons why each of these seven items is a fallacy and infers key aspects of the framework underlying Friedman's (1968) analysis.


PURPOSE. Interleukin (IL)-12p40 can couple with IL-12p35 or p19 chains to form the molecules IL-12p70 and IL-23, respectively, which promote T(H)1 cytokine responses. IL-12p35 can bind to EBI3 to form the anti-inflammatory molecule IL-35, but a proinflammatory function of IL-12p35 independent of IL-12p40 has not been described. Here such a function in a mouse model of herpes stromal keratitis (HSK), a CD4(+) T(H)1 cell-dependent corneal inflammation, is demonstrated. METHODS. Corneas of wild-type (WT), IL-12p40(-/-), IL-12p35(-/-), and IL-12p35(-/-)p40(-/-) (double knockout) mice were infected with the RE strain of HSV-1, and HSK was monitored based on corneal opacity, neovascularization, leukocytic infiltrate, and cytokine/chemokine levels. RESULTS. All mouse strains developed moderate HSK by 11 days after infection (dpi). However, from 11 to 21 dpi, HSK progressed in WT and IL-12p40(-/-) mice but regressed in IL-12p35(-/-) and IL-12p35(-/-)p40(-/-) mice. HSK regression was characterized by reductions in neutrophils and CD4(+) T cells and attenuation of blood vessels, which was associated with reduced levels of the chemokines KC (CXCL3), Mip-2 (CXCL2), and MCP-1 (CCL2) and the angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor. CONCLUSIONS. HSK development does not require IL-12p40 and is thus independent of IL-12p70 and IL-23. However, late HSK progression does require a previously unrecognized IL-12p40-independent, proinflammatory function of IL-12p35.


Objective. We examined disparities in male perpetration of intimate partner violence (IPV) based on immigration status. Methods. From 2005 to 2006, 1,668 men aged 18–35 who were recruited from community health centers anonymously completed an automated, computer-assisted self-interview. Men self-reported their immigrant status (e.g., native-born, <6 years in the U.S. [recent immigrants], or ≥6 years in the U.S. [non-recent immigrants]) and IPV perpetration. We calculated differences in IPV perpetration based on immigrant status. Among immigrant men, we further examined differences in IPV perpetration based on English-speaking ability. Results. Recent immigrants were less likely to report IPV perpetration than native-born men in the overall sample (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36, 1.00). However, we observed no differences in IPV perpetration between non-recent immigrants and native-born men (AOR=0.88, 95% CI 0.63, 1.23). Among immigrant men, those who were non-recent immigrants and reported limited English-speaking ability were at the highest risk for IPV perpetration, compared with recent immigrants with high English-speaking ability (AOR=7.48, 95% CI 1.92, 29.08). Conclusions. Although immigrant men were at a lower risk as a group for IPV perpetration as compared with non-immigrants, this lower likelihood of IPV perpetration was only evident among recent immigrants. Among immigrant men, those who arrived in the U.S. more than six years ago and reported speaking English relatively poorly appeared to be at greatest risk for using violence against partners. Future research should examine the effects of fear of legal sanctions, discrimination, and changes in gender roles to clarify the present findings.


Microsatellite markers were developed for the endangered Brazilian orchid species Cattleya coccinea to describe its genetic diversity and structure and to support conservation studies. Nine microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized using an enriched genomic library. All loci are polymorphic at least in the 2 populations sampled, except for loci Cac05 and Cac09 for the Petrópolis population. The mean number of alleles per locus was 8.8 between populations. The mean values of the observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.541 (ranging from 0 to 1) and 0.639 (ranging from 0 to 0.9), respectively. Cross-amplifications were performed in 7 additional Epidendroideae species, and at least 2 loci were successful in 3 additional Cattleya species, Epidendrum secundum, and Brasiliorchis gracilis. All markers described herein will be useful in further studies evaluating the genetic diversity, population dynamics, and conservation genetics of C. coccinea and related species.


The IT sector is volatile and rapidly growing, with a constant need for skilled employees.
Although the average level of education in society is increasing, education
is not the only thing that makes a candidate fit for a certain job. Gothenburgbased
recruitment company Software Skills offers recruitment services for the IT
sector. Their recruitment process includes several interviews, but also practical
tests.
The purpose of this project is to design a web-based platform with skill- and
personality tests to be used by Software Skills in their recruitment process. The
product consists of two skill tests and one personality test. The skills tested
are multitasking and short-term memory. The personality test is based on selfevaluation,
where the user is supposed to grade three statements in the order they
apply him/her. An algorithm that takes consistency into account is then used to
calculate a result.
To test multitasking capacity, the user performs two simple tasks simultaneously,
and is scored with an algorithm that gives an edge to a user that succeeds in giving
equal attention to both tasks.
The memory test presents the user with a grid, and the user is tasked with imitating
a pattern of gradually increasing length. There is also a distraction in the form of
a different color breaking the pattern.
The product as a whole is aptly named Skill Test, and is created with a collection of
very popular web-development frameworks called MEAN - an acronym for Mongo,
Express, Angular and Node. All source code is written in Javascript, HTML and
CSS.
The group has worked according to a slightly modified version of an agile development
process called Scrum. This means that the product did not have a complete
specification at the beginning in the project. Instead, the group has had regular
contact with the customer, who has been able to continuously supply feedback.
The Scrum process ensures that the product complies with the vision of the customer.
In Scrum, tasks are distributed to the development team from a so-called
product backlog. The team then works iteratively in what is commonly referred
to as sprints.


A series of laboratory tests have been conducted on several different batches of Vaisala RS80 radiosondes to understand and develop methods to correct six humidity measurement errors, including chemical contamination, temperature dependence, basic calibration model, ground check, sensor aging, and sensor arm heating. The contamination and temperature-dependence (TD) errors dominate total errors. The chemical contamination error produces a dry bias, and is due to the occupation of binding sites in the sensor polymer by nonwater molecules emitted from the sonde packaging material. The magnitude of the dry bias depends on sensor polymer type (RS80-A and RS80H), age of the sonde, relative humidity (RH), and temperature, and it exists throughout the troposphere. The contamination error generally increases with age and RH, and is larger for the RS80-H than the RS80-A. It is ;2% and ;10% at saturation for 1-yr-old RS80-A and RS80-H sondes, respectively. The TD error for the RS80-A results from an approximation of a linear function of temperature to the actual nonlinear temperature dependence of the sensor, and also introduces a dry bias. The TD error mainly exists at temperatures below 2208C, increases substantially with decreasing temperatures below 2308C, and is much larger for the RS80-A than the RS80-H. The RS80-A's TD correction (CTA) dominates the total correction at temperatures below 2408C and has a correction factor [CTA 5 (RH) (CTApfactor)] of 0.15, 0.75, and 2.3 at 2408, 2608, and 2808C, respectively. The correction methods are applied to 8129 Vaisala RS80 soundings collected during the Tropical Ocean and Global Atmosphere (TOGA) Coupled Ocean‐Atmosphere Response Experiment (COARE) and are applicable to RS80 radiosonde data from other field experiments and historical and operational radiosonde datasets. The methods are validated by examining various summary plots of the TOGA COARE data and comparing them with other independent data. The corrections greatly improve the accuracy of the TOGA COARE radiosonde dataset. These correction methods have their own uncertainties and may not correct all errors in Vaisala RS80 humidity data. Analyses of these uncertainties are presented in the paper.


The popularity of the Web has changed the world of End User Programming. Our research systems can now be built in a web browser that millions of people use every day, and we have massive information available. Our users are more experienced and they can share their work with each other. After twenty-five years of trying to infer the user's intent, I will compare early and contemporary end user programming systems to see what progress we have made, and what opportunities we now have for widespread success.


5 strains of verocytotoxigenic (VT) bacteriophage were isolated from E.coli O157 strains, cow feces, chicken feces, sewage and purified by two-layer agar assay. Gene vt2 was amplified by PCR in these phage isolates. The plaques of these phages were 0.5-2mm in diameter and the titre of phages with lucidity plaques against host strain MC1061 was more than 109 PFU/mL. A lysogen with vt2 gene was obtained after transfecting MC1061 by VT2 phage SHФW1 isolated from sewage. The cytopathic effect on Vero cells was produced after inoculating the filtrate from the above lysogen, while no cytopathic effect was appeared inoculating the filtrate from MC1061 cultured in the same condition. All these showed that VT2 phages were common in environment and VT2 virulent factor could transfer horizontally through the lysogenic infection by VT2 phage. VT2 phage is related to the virulence of bacteria.


Figure 1: Structures of MG resists. Molecular glasses (MGs) are materials that exist in an amorphous state below their glass transition temperature, which allows us to study their glassy properties and behavior as photoresists. This research explored single component MG photoresists designed for future use in physical vapor deposition studies. This study investigated the critical doses, etch resistance rates, and electron beam lithography performance of three MGs. The CM-CR6 MG photoresist was identified as the most suitable candidate due to its relatively high etch resistance and high resolution patterning of 80 nm line and space patterns.


We present numerical simulation results of driven vortex lattices in the presence of random disorder at zero temperature. We show that the plastic dynamics is readily understood in the framework of chaos theory. Intermittency "routes to chaos" have been clearly identified, and positive Lyapunov exponents and broadband noise, both characteristic of chaos, are found to coincide with the differential resistance peak. Furthermore, the fractal dimension of the strange attractor reveals that the chaotic dynamics of vortices is low dimensional.


Frame Semantics provides a powerful cross-lingual model to describe the conceptual structure underlying
 specialized language. Building specialized frames is challenging because of the complex nature of predicate-argument structures,
 and because of the domain-specific uses of general-language predicates. Our semi-automatic method elicits semantic frames from
 specialized corpora. It aims to discover lexical patterns that reveal the structure of specialized frames and to populate them
 with corpus-based data. Firstly, we automatically extracted verb-noun triples from corpora using bootstrapping to identify
 noun-verb-noun phraseological patterns. Secondly, we annotated each noun-verb-noun triple with the lexical domain of the verbs and
 the semantic class and role of the noun filling each argument slot. We then used these annotations and patterns to classify
 similar triples. Thus, the structure and the types of lexical units that belong to each specialized frames were inferred.
 Specialized corpora analysis of environmental science texts in English and in Spanish illustrate our methodology.


The magnetic-resonance force microscope (MRFM) is a novel scanned probe instrument which combines the three-dimensional (3-D) imaging capabilities of magnetic-resonance imaging with the high sensitivity and resolution of atomic-force microscopy. It will enable nondestructive, chemical-specific, high-resolution microscopic studies and imaging of subsurface properties of a broad range of materials. The MRFM has demonstrated its utility for study of microscopic ferromagnets, and it will enable microscopic understanding of the nonequilibrium spin polarization resulting from spin injection. Microscopic MRFM studies will provide unprecedented insight into the physics of magnetic and spin-based materials. We will describe the principles and the state-of-the-art in magnetic-resonance force microscopy, discuss existing cryogenic MRFM instruments incorporating high-Q, single-crystal microresonators with integral submicrometer probe magnets, and indicate future directions for enhancing MRFM instrument capabilities.


L-Ascorbic acid (AsA, vitamin C) is an essential human nutrient that must be obtained in the diet, with the vast majority being obtained from plant foods. A vitamin C-deficient diet results in the onset of scurvy, which can have lethal consequences. However, vitamin C has also been implicated in the prevention of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and several neurodegenerative diseases. Although the supporting evidence for these claims is disputed, the dietary allowances for vitamin C have been recently increased in several countries, including the United States. This scenario, together with the general perception by consumers of vitamin C as being of benefit in the prevention of several lifestyle diseases and associated with general "well-being", contributes to a market rationale for enhancing the vitamin C content of crops. In recent years, there has been substantial progress in the understanding of vitamin C biochemistry in plants with a number of structural genes cloned. Here these findings are reviewed, and a description of how such knowledge could be applied to the nutritional enhancement of crops is given.


In two studies, the role of the number-word sequence skill for arithmetic performance was investigated. In the first, children between 4 and 8 years of age were asked to count forward and backward on the number-word sequence and to solve arithmetic problems followed by post-solution interviews about solution procedures. The results demonstrated that the number-word sequence skill predicted both number of problems solved and strategy to solve the problems. In Study 2 it was found that solving doubles (e.g., 2 + 2 = ?) problems served as a link between the number-word sequence skill and the number of arithmetic problems solved. The findings suggest that counting on the number-word sequence may be an early solution procedure and that, with increasing counting skill, the child may detect regularities in the number-word sequence that can be used to form new and more accurate strategies for solving arithmetic problems.


In reverse technology, the key step in front of importing model is the data preprocessing. The purpose of de-nosing is to remove the needless curved surface on the three-dimension (3-D) model by scanning. The stereo lithography (STL) data obtained by three-dimensional scanning will be leaded into MATLAB by writing a program, and then a triangular grid pattern can be got. Using the improved subdivision wavelet, the reconstitution and de-noising of the multi-resolution grid can be completed. To import the three-dimensional figure data into SolidWorks, and a better surface is constituted. In comparison with and research the new graph with the previous that has noise and the model after Geomagic Studio, this method has a better effect.


This paper analyzes capacity building in transportation, logistics, and security in Africa. It is one of the first few research studies that reflects the reality of the development of Africa's infrastructural capacity for transport, based on the notion of the Physical Internet. Grounded on the analysis of the economic, environmental, and social impacts of transport logistics on the continent, the research sheds light on the deficit in infrastructure capacity of African countries. To this end, the study provides a set of recommendations for capacity building across African transport sectors.


The decrease in the nominal failure stress of geometrically similar but different sized members with the increasing characteristic size is called size effect. This effect occurs not only in tension failures but in compression failures as well. This is the case for prestressed concrete members and columns as well. In this study test results of full-scale failure of singly reinforced four-point-bend beams of different sizes containing deformed longitudinal reinforcing bars are reported. A residual stress in brittle specimens are recorded which are modelled and inserted in Bazant's size effect law by using Marquardt-Levenberg algorithm by a short program prepared in Matlab®. Two methods are compared with each other. This study indicates a significant size effect which should be considered in behaviour and design of structures and Bazant's modified size effect law is more successful than the Bazant's former law in greater specimens because of residual stresses.


Virtual components (VC), also known as intellectual property (IP), have long been a part of the engineering reality. Business drivers, such as improved time to market and better resource utilization are factoring ever more into the make versus buy decision process. Maximizing in-house design resources and purchasing commodity or standard IP has become the de facto business model. Unfortunately, with the increasing number of IP vendors competing in the marketplace, the decision making process is not clear. Simplistically, functionality needs to be the first criteria, but when two or more similar IPs are available, the selection criterion quickly becomes more difficult. This paper addresses the process of measuring IP quality, presents a summary of the VSIA quality IP (QIP) metric, and reports the on-going work.


Our aim was to evaluate the location of impacted canines and their proximity to the lateral and central incisor to assess the prognosis of the impacted canine and compare the reliability of 2D versus 3D imaging solutions. We carried a prospective study on 17 subjects with impacted maxillary canines. Later, the patients underwent radiologic examination, i.e., sectional computed tomography and orthopantomography. The obtained records were compared regarding the location of the impacted maxillary canine, the proximity and resorption of the impacted canine to the lateral and central incisors, the prognosis of the impacted canine, and the linear distance of the canine from the vertical and horizontal reference lines drawn. Eleven males (45.8%) and 13 females (54.1%), 11 (45.8%) impacted canines on the right side, and 13 (54.1%) on the left side, as well as 2 (8.3%) transpositions, were noted. Buccally impacted teeth caused less resorption of the adjacent teeth. Among the 24 teeth examined using orthopantomography with the sector method, 3 (12.5%) teeth were found in sector 1. There were 8 (33.33%) teeth in sector 2, and 11 (45.8%) of the impacted canines were in sector 3. In localizing impacted maxillary canines, computed tomography revealed an increased accuracy of 31% compared to orthopantomography. Even though both computed tomography and orthopantomography revealed similar records, computed tomography showed more accuracy, also having an added advantage of its 3D viewing capabilities in precise localization of the impacted maxillary canine.


Purpose. The purpose of the article is to highlight the ways of marketing labeling of agricultural products as effective aspect of business and their interpretation in a clear form to consumers.
Methodology / approach. Research of optimization and correct choosing ways of agricultural product marketing labeling based on the following methods: analysis and comparative characteristics used in world practice labeling methods; methods of decision-making marketing.
Results. According to the recent market trends, labeling of agricultural products acquires varied complicated structure, which makes some difficulties to consumers orientation in labeling types, and, at the same time, complicates the business of agricultural products producers and processors, in consequence of which, marketing potential of business efficiency improving is not fully realized. This article explores ways to streamline marketing labeling for agricultural products, as an effective tool for innovative marketing, and their interpretation in an understandable for the consumer form as an aspect of effective entrepreneurship. As a result of the study, the authors developed and proposed a method for labeling agricultural products, which is based on the most common marketing labeling methods and includes their characteristics.
Originality / scientific novelty. Author's developed method of marketing labeling is a combination in the same tabular form of the information that will be useful for consumers, and it will beneficially allocate products among competitors and will encourage the purchase. Accordingly, the proposed method provides a list of the most used labeling types, their characteristics, so, labeling type which corresponds to a specific product, released in the table by color, that makes thus labeling type a comprehensive and effective. The need for separate labeling of the nitrates concentration in agricultural products is due to the popularity of consumer requests and the complexity of determining this indicator in household way.
Practical value / significance. Using the author's proposed labeling method for agricultural products leads to the achievement of the following results: informing consumers without additional information sources; process oriented consumer choice; assessment of competitive advantages in accordance with the production method; increase the volume of sales that increases the efficiency of enterprise economic activity. The research helps resolve problems streamlining marketing labeling methods for agricultural products and their interpretation in a clear form to consumers, and, also, used as an effective entrepreneurship marketing tool.


The importance of information in contemporary time is an issue that cannot be handled with levity. It implies that information has become power that pivot and propel the wheels of development. In this vein, this pilot study attempts to provide adequate information for sustainable development of riverine communities of Edu Local Government Area of Kwara state, Nigeria. Edu Local Government area was divided into three pragmatic zones based on the administrative districts. In each of the districts, Geographical Information System analytical tool was used to harvest and treat the data for subsequent interpretation. The coordinates of various locations of interest were captured, contour and slope maps of the area were generated to finally produce risk map for the area. The results revealed three distinct risk zones; High, Moderate and low-risk areas. Three settlements fall into low-risk areas with elevations above 196m, two settlements located at between 110m and196m are within moderate risk zone and six settlements in High-risk area with elevations below 110m. This study concludes that the riverine communities in Edu LGA are prone to flood risk. The study recommends public enlightenment on how man interacts with the environment and the implications, the trend in climate and weather in relation to flood and its consequences; environmental education and Stakeholder's forum should be organized as avenue for disseminating and educating the people for better and sustainable living in their various communities. Keywords: community, flood, information, living, risk, riverine


Cerebral ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus are not frequently associated with endocrine disorders of the gonadotropic axis. The mechanism of this association is not clarified. The most probable cause is however a partial hypothalamic dysfunction. The examination of the few reported cases is in favour of this explanation. We present the case of a young woman with a cerebral ventriculomegaly and suffering from secondary amenorrhea. Shunt was not necessary from the neurological point of view, the problem of secondary amenorrhea and anovulatory infertility was solved by clomiphen citrate therapy.


Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is an important regional food source, providing food and income to over 30 million farmers, processors, and traders in Nigeria. Extension programs support awareness and interest in new technologies; they facilitate the adoption and adaptation of new approaches to crop production, post-harvest processing, and marketing. Extension can be understood as an intermediary or catalyst in the dissemination of information to rural farmers. This study analyzed the effect of cassava farmers' exposure to extension on a broad measure of cassava technology adoption, while considering the influence of some individual and farm characteristics as control variables. Data were obtained from personal interviews with sample of 952 households conducted in southern Nigeria. Results show a relationship between extension exposure and technology adoption. Farmer-to-farmer interaction played the greatest role in diffusion of the technologies. Interactions with extension agents were low, suggesting that adoption of improved technologies could be enhanced by improved regular contact with extension information. The results underscore the importance of farmer-to-farmer interaction processes that often overshadow extension assistance in supporting and guiding the use of production technology. The conclusions consider some implications for 21st century extension.


Using quail-chick parabiosis and the QH1 monoclonal antibody, specific for the endothelial and hematopoietic cells of the quail species, as a marker, we identified circulating endothelial cells in the embryo. In normal conditions, these cells could integrate endothelia in many tissues but their number remained low. When artificial angiogenic responses were created, i.e., in grafting experiments on the chorioallantoic membrane or wound healing, the circulating endothelial cells were rapidly mobilized to reach the embryonic regions submitted to these processes and their number dramatically increased. Interestingly, 1) on one hand, these circulating endothelial cells were present early in ontogeny, before the third embryonic day in the quail embryo; 2) on the other hand, their mobilization was not dependent on the presence of the bone marrow since it was effective before the differentiation of this tissue.


Purpose To assess the frequency of mutations in the Myocilin (MYOC) gene in Iranian patients affected with primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). Methods The individuals evaluated herein are among a larger cohort of 100 patients who had previously been screened for CYP1B1 mutations. Eighty subjects carried mutations in CYP1B1, but the remaining 20 patients who did not, underwent screening for MYOC mutations for the purpose of the study. MYOC exons in the DNA were polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplified and sequenced. Sequencing was performed using PCR primers, the ABI big dye chemistry and an ABI3730XL instrument. Sequences were analyzed by comparing them to reference MYOC sequences using the Sequencher software. Results Four MYOC sequence variations were observed among the patients, but none of them were considered to be associated with disease status. Three of these variations were single nucleotide polymorphisms already reported not to be disease causing, the fourth variation created a synonymous codon and did not affect any amino acid change. Conclusion In this cohort, MYOC mutations were not observed in any Iranian subject with PCG. It is possible that in a larger sample, a few subjects carrying disease causing MYOC mutations could have been observed. But our results show that the contribution of MYOC to PCG status in Iran is small if any.


Introduction: Childhood malnutrition especially under nutrition is one of the most frequent causes of child morbidity and mortality. The consequences of malnutrition are more apparent in adulthood; it results in poor physical development and diminished cognitive abilities.
Objective: To evaluate the nutritional status of supposedly healthy children aged 0 to 2 years old, attending vaccination clinics in Mezam division, North West Region, Cameroon.
Methods: It was a descriptive survey using structured questionnaires, which covered socioeconomic and
demographic information, breastfeeding practices, socio-cultural and economic factors and anthropometric data. Anthropometric measurements were taken (weight, height, head circumference). The total number of children was 990 (561 girls and 429 boys) all from diverse ethnic groups and Backgrounds. The anthropometric indicator used was the weight-for-age. The nutritional status of these children was evaluated with respect to a number of factors which are: age range, the sex of the children, milk feeding, socio-economic and demographic factors. The results obtained were expressed in percentages.
Results: Comparison of the growth patterns of the study population with that of the NCHS references revealed that none of the children grew exactly according to the NCHS references. The prevalence rate of both under nutrition and over nutrition among the 0-2 year's old children living in Mezam division was high. Children aged 0 to 6 months were more affected by under nutrition while those aged 6-12 months were more affected by over nutrition. Risk factors of under nutrition in these infants were as a result of factors such as: Nature of  parents' profession, parents' educational level, inappropriate child feeding practices such as exclusive breastfeeding practiced incorrectly and mixed feeding started too early.
Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence rate of both under nutrition and over nutrition among children aged 0-2 year's old living in the Mezam division.


(+/-)-15-Fluoro-11,15-dideoxyprostaglandin E1 and its methyl and ethyl esters were synthesized. Dehydroxyfluorination reaction (+/-)-11-deoxyprostaglandin E1 esters with various reagents based on SF4 was studied. Along with the target 15-fluorides (mixtures of alpha- and beta-epimers), products of allylic shift and dehydration in a ratio dependent on the fluorination agent were shown to be formed. With a morpholinotrifluorosulfuran-tris(morpholine)sulfonium trimethyldifluorosilicate mixture, the maximal excess (70%) of one of the 15-fluoro epimers was achieved. Possible mechanisms of dehydroxyfluorination of (+/-)-11-deoxyprostaglandin E1 esters with dialkylaminoflluorosulfurans were proposed. Methyl esters of 15-alpha-fluoro- and 15-beta-fluoro-11,15-dideoxyprostaglandin E1 exhibited moderate antiaggregation activity in rabbit platelet tests.


Dipole moment, polarizability, and their derivatives with respect to the internuclear separation are calculated for the MgC molecule by using the many-body perturbation theory method up to fourth-order. The results show that the inclusion of electron correlation is very important for this system. In particular, correlation corrections reduce the self-consistent field result for the polarizability to half, increase the dipole moment by 45% and also have dramatic effects on their derivatives. At the highest level of theory employed the calculated dipole moment is 1.86 au and the average polarizability is 56.4 au with a large anisotropy (47.5 au). The vibration-rotational dependence of the dipole moment and polarizability is analysed. Calculated values for the infrared absorption intensity, Raman scattering activity and degree of depolarization are given. The effect of electron correlation on these quantities is discussed.


Entrepreneurship is gaining more space society. Within a context in which Universitys are putting in their curricular teaching entrepreneurship course in conjunction with the didactic and pedagogical practices, this research sought to investigate the evolution of the entrepreneurial perspective on students entering and graduating from courses in Administration, Nursing, Social Work Technology and courses in a private University in Natal / RN, showing what influences entrepreneurial present during the academic life in their research subjects. Through a case study, we adopted an exploratory and descriptive research. The research sample consisted of 2450 students with a sample of 358 university students studying Business Administration, Social Services, Nursing and Technology. It was used as an instrument of data collection a questionnaire with closed questions on the model proposed by McClelland (1971) considering the entrepreneurial dimensions: independence, creativity, locus of control and willingness to take risks. The data were treated statistically, with the technical, the chi-square test. The results demonstrated that there is a material change in the behavior of students lifelong academic, since the dimensions of creativity and independence were recorded with the largest positive changes. It was found that creativity in relation to size, we noticed no difference when comparing a course aimed at the business with other EMPREENDEDORISMO: UMA INVESTIGACAO NA EVOLUCAO DA PERSPECTIVA EMPREENDEDORA DOS ESTUDANTES DE UMA IES PRIVADA NO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE. Richard Medeiros Araujo Fernando Porfirio Oliveira Rodrigo Siqueira Christo Denis Oliveira Silva 64 R. eletr. estrat. neg., Florianopolis, v.5, n.1, p. 28-66, jan./abr. 2012 formations, both of which offer courses investigated means for developing the creativity of students. It is concluded that the competence of entrepreneurial behavior can be developed in students from the inclusion of entrepreneurship as a discipline and implementation of educational and pedagogical activity in University in view of the evolution of the entrepreneurial perspective of the students surveyed in the research.


Objectives: To investigate the role of transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale on the occurrence of migraine. Background: In recent years, a potential relationship between, migraine, stroke, and patent foramen ovale (PFO) has emerged. Methods: BioMedCentral, Google Scholar, and PubMed from January 2000 to December 2008 were systematically searched for pertinent clinical studies. Secondary sources were also used. Secondary prevention studies of transcatheter closure for patent foramen ovale were required to include at least more than 10 patients followed for more than 6 months. The primary end‐point was the rate of cured or significantly improved migraine after percutaneous PFO closure. Results: After excluding 637 citations, we finally included a total of 11 studies for a total of 1,306 patients. Forty percent of the subjects included suffered from migraine, while most had a previous history of transient ischemic attack/stroke and were investigated retrospectively. Quantitative synthesis showed that complete cure of migraine in 46% (95% C.I.25–67%), while resolution or significant improvement of migraine occurred in 83% (95% C.I. 78–88%) of cases. Conclusions: Notwithstanding the limitations inherent in the primary studies, this systematic review suggests that a significant group of subjects with migraine, in particular if treated after a neurological event, may benefit from percutaneous closure of their patent foramen ovale. However, many questions remain unsolved. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.


Pes valgus is a pathological condition which occurs in up to 25% of patients with cerebral palsy. Its correction in early age is essential to prevent progression of the deformity and to optimize the patient's function. In younger patients arthroereisis can be considered as a treatment that fills the void between orthotics and arthrodesis. We treated 15 patients (27 feet) with intra- or extra-sinus tarsi arthroereisis. Concomitant Achilles tendon lengthening was performed in 12 feet. Results were good in 19 feet and poor in 8. Even though arthoereisis presents some complications, it can be considered a useful treatment to delay or avoid a Grice subtalar arthrodesis in flexible pes valgus due to cerebral palsy.


Kenyan women religious serve in ministries that provide essential aid in their communities.  These ministries include vital positions in the fields of education, healthcare, social work, finance, and agriculture, among others.  However, approximately 80% of women religious in sub-Saharan Africa lack the post-secondary education necessary to adequately meet the evolving demands of their ministries (Wakahiu & Shaver, 2015).  For this reason, women religious in Kenya have been provided an opportunity to participate in a uniquely delivered, fully funded, post-secondary education program.  Although two qualitative studies had previously been conducted on this post-secondary education program, none had addressed the impact of the program on the participants' understanding of their lives as women religious.  As a result, this qualitative study endeavored to answer the questions:  Has participation in the program transformed Kenyan sisters' understanding of their lives as women religious?  And, has participation in the program influenced how Kenyan women religious view themselves in their ministries?  In-person interviews with program participants and staff (N = 17), as well as document reviews, were conducted in order to effectively answer these questions.  Upon analysis, three themes were revealed, including enhancement of ministry abilities (academic, professional, congregation strengthening, spiritual), empowerment (self-confidence) and relational engagement (social interaction, self-awareness, leadership).  From these themes, the concept of servant leadership emerged as the ultimate perceived impact of the post-secondary education program on Kenyan Catholic sisters' understanding of their lives as women religious and view of themselves in ministry.


We formulate the method of Iterative Prescription Refinement (IPR) for inverse planning in any fully-discretized model of radiation therapy. The method starts out from an ideal dose prescription and repeatedly refines it into a refined dose prescription. This is done computationally without human interaction until a prespecified stopping rule is met, at which point the refined dose vector and the accompanying beamlet intensities vector are evaluated and presented to the planner. The algorithmic regime is general enough to encompass various physical models that may use different particles (photons, protons, etc.) It is formulated for a general inversion operator thus different objective functions or approaches to the optimization problem (such as DVH, gEUD, or TCP and NTCP cost functions) may all be applied. Although not limited to this model, we demonstrate that the approach at all works on two exemplary cases from photon intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).


Background Late cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection can occur after cessation of viral prophylaxis in kidney transplant recipients, yet, timing of infection is unclear and longer duration of prophylaxis may be warranted. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 86 children (35 CMV donor seropositive, recipient seronegative [D + R−] and 51 CMV recipient seropositive [R+]) younger than 18 years who received a kidney transplant between January 2002 and June 2014 and were treated with antiviral prophylaxis for 3 months after transplantation. Incidence of CMV DNAemia and CMV disease was determined using Kaplan-Meier analyses and risk factors were assessed using Poisson regression. Results Of the 86 children, 61.6% were male and median age at transplant was 13.4 years (interquartile range [IQR], 8.9-15.6) with a median follow-up of 35.2 months (IQR, 18.0-54.5). Incidence of CMV DNAemia within the first 3 months after prophylaxis cessation in CMV D + R− and CMV R+ children was 22.9% and 23.5% and incidence of CMV disease was 11.4% and 0%, respectively. Cumulative incidence of CMV DNAemia in both groups was similar (31.4%). Children who received antithymocyte globulin were more likely to develop CMV DNAemia compared with those who received anti-IL-2 (IRR, 2.98; 95% confidence interval, 1.41-6.30) after controlling for age, sex, Epstein-Barr Virus serostatus and rejection. Conclusions This study demonstrates a high incidence of CMV infection after cessation of antiviral prophylaxis. These results support extension of antiviral prophylaxis beyond 3 months and/or intensive viral load monitoring to reduce risk of CMV infection in D + R− and R+ children, especially those receiving antithymocyte globulin.