Today we can state that these technologies have created the basis for the formation of a fundamentally new environment of legal regulation, penetrating into a wide variety of areas of human activity. And such a new technological environment based on digital technologies significantly affects various spheres of life, such as financial, political, social, and other. The influence of the modern "digital revolution" began to extend to the formation of the relevant norms of national legislation, which led to the adoption of the Law of Ukraine "On Virtual Assets". The purpose of the article is to develop a study aimed at trying to form a classification of the latest elements of digital technologies that have more found their application in the financial sector of the economy and have the common well-known name "cryptocurrency" and adopted in domestic legislation the expression "virtual assets" with the adoption of the Law of Ukraine "On Virtual Assets". In the study, we call them digital financial technology. And to form their general classification, on the basis of their inherent characteristic features. The purpose of the article is not how much to present the classification of virtual assets proposed in the Law Ukraine "On Virtual Assets", as in the presentation on the background of their existing alternative classification. During the study, general scientific research methods were used – deduction and induction, synthesis and analysis, scientific abstraction, systematic approach; specifically – legal methods of cognition – formally legal; legal forecasting, retrospective and comparative-legal method; methodological substantiation of the essence, nature, and structure of terminology, which is the object of research. The study showed the existing versatility of classifications in the world, and the author proposed, on the basis of existing classifications, his own vision for grouping the objects of research of "cryptocurrency" into four groups: DFT-gaming, DFT-prepaid, DFT – national currency, DFT – interethnic currency.


Free standing smectic films have been investigated at the transition from the smectic- C phase to the isotropic phase. In the vicinity of the bulk transition temperatures, isotropic droplets of micrometer size appear in the film. Such systems represent convenient models for anisotropic, two-dimensional emulsions. A characteristic feature of the droplets is their mutual interaction by elastic distortions of the local orientation of the film, the c director, which are related to the anchoring conditions of the c director at the droplet border. We describe in detail the director deformations created by isotropic droplets of different sizes, and their role in the spontaneous organization of regular droplet patterns. Depending upon droplet size and anchoring strength, topological defects can be induced in the c -director field. Qualitative differences to literature data on cholesteric droplets in smectic- C* films are discussed.


Plant cells are surrounded by a wall made up of molecules that are basically chains of sugars, so-called beta-glucans. At the 9th International Plant Molecular Biology Congress, researchers described progress in manipulating genes to increase the beta-glucan content of grains and other plant tissues. Those increases could translate into healthier foods by boosting fiber content. Manipulating beta-glucan content in plant cell walls can also increase our ability to fully utilize plant residue for many purposes such as biofuels.


Laser-induced local structural changes in glass-ceramics have recently been the subject of intense research interest in connection with analytical, aerospace, optical-memory and other advanced applications. In this paper, we demonstrate that important features of such processes are very high rates and unusual kinetics. These features are interpreted in terms of thermophysical kinetics and a novel view of amorphous materials as vacancy-distorted crystals.


Holistic approach as the philosophical orientation to care underpins the fundamental wholeness of human being and emphasizes the importance of balance within the person and between the person and his/her environment. It includes elements of the physiological, sociological, economic, psychological and spiritual dimensions, and thus providesan opportunity to assess the patient as a whole and in relation to his/ her living context. Such an integrated approach is part of the basic knowledge and skills of general practitioners/family doctors and makes them equal members of a multidisciplinary team in chronic wound patient care. In this case report on a patient with mixed leg ulcer, we will try to bring closer holistic approach in care for this kind of patients in daily practice of general practitioners/family doctors.


Due to the increasing demand of an extra-low-power system, a great amount of research effort has been spent in the past to develop an effective and economic subthreshold SRAM design. However, the test methods regarding those newly developed subthreshold SRAM designs have not yet been fully discussed. In this paper, we first categorize the subthreshold SRAM designs into three types, study the faulty behavior of open defects and address decoders faults on each type of designs, and then identify the faults which may not be covered by a traditional SRAM test method. We will also discuss the impact of open defects and threshold-voltage mismatch on sense amplifiers under subthreshold operations. A discussion about the temperature at test is also provided.


In this article we classify indecomposable objects of the derived categories of finitely-generated modules over certain infinite-dimensional algebras. The considered class of algebras (which we call nodal algebras) contains such well-known algebras as the complete ring of a double nodal point k[[x, y]]/(xy) and the completed path algebra of the Gelfand quiver. As a corollary we obtain a description of the derived category of HarishChandra modules over SL2(R). We also give an algorithm, which allows to construct projective resolutions of indecomposable complexes. In the appendix we prove the Krull-Schmidt theorem for homotopy categories.


Abstract Recent advances in medical technology, not with standing their potential blessings, have engendered a number of new ethical problems. Questions raised by rapidly improving techniques for the transplantation of human organs and body tissues have become especially urgent. The article tries to clarify and evaluate the main arguments advanced for and against different arrangements in this area. The first part concentrates on the problem of acquisition. The ethical status of eight ways of obtaining human body parts is investigated. The cases are derived from combinations of three criteria: whether the donor consents or not; whether or not he/she is alive or dead at the time of extraction; and whether or not donors (or their heirs) are compensated. In the second part, the problem of adjudication is treated. Three possible arrangements are examined: market, organ bank, and club.


In this paper we consider the problem of optimal stopping and continuous control on some local parameters of a piecewise-deterministic Markov processes (PDP's). Optimality equations are obtained in terms of a set of variational inequalities as well as on the first jump time operator of the PDP. It is shown that if the final cost function is absolutely continuous along trajectories then so is the value function of the optimal stopping problem with continuous control. These results unify and generalize previous ones in the current literature.


Observations in two pairs of identical twins illustrate the importance of genetic factors in determining the outcome of exposure to asbestos in relation to pleural plaques and bronchogenic carcinoma. The first pair of twins, laggers with french railroad (S.N.C.F.), were discovered fortuitously, after only several years exposure, to have bilateral pleural plaques and calcification at the same site on the axillary and diaphragmatic surfaces. The second set of twins developed epidermoïd bronchial carcinoma : one at the right hilum, the other postero-basally on the right in 1969 and 1977 respectively. Both were in ship-building and each had been exposed to asbestos in the same yard for 20 years between 1945 and 1965. Radiographs showed left sided pleural calcification and reticular shadowing at the bases in the two cases. These observations show the role of the host in the generation of asbestos disease. They are in keeping with studies on the presence of certain tissue types (HLA B27, and HLA B8) in those with asbestosis and of non-specific auto-antibodies (anti-nuclear factor, rheumatoid factor) in asbestosis, silicosis and the idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The relation between genetic factors and asbestos-induced cancer is suggested by the variable susceptibility of different kinds of animals to carcinogenesis in response to asbestos and by the increased inductibility of the enzyme system Aryl-hydrocarbon-hydroxylase in subjects exposed to this air-born contaminant who develop pleural tumours and/or bronchitis. There are only two other publications of bronchial carcinoma in twins in the literature.


Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a complex, heterogeneous disease, with disease activity in various domains. In recent years, many novel treatments with diverse mechanisms of action have been introduced into the clinical setting. Numerous factors go into the choice and sequencing of different therapies for individual patients. At the 2021 Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA) annual meeting, a point/counterpoint debate was held addressing therapeutic choices. Specifically, the question addressed was whether interleukin (IL)-17/IL-23 inhibitors or tumor necrosis factor inhibitors are the appropriate initial therapy for patients with PsA.


BACKGROUND
The anti-hail nets are widely used to protect apple fruit against hailstorms and hail damage. They can have also beneficial effects against pests in apple orchards, in particular codling moth (Cydia pomonella). However, covering the trees with anti-hail nets can modify the orchard microclimate and reduce the interception of light, thus potentially causing negative consequences on the organoleptic quality of apple fruits.

RESULTS
A consistent reduction of the percentage of apple fruits infested by codling moth was registered as a result of the use of anti-hail nets during two consecutive harvest years. Their use did not affect fruit maturity, but reduced the skin colour, sugar content, pulp total phenol content, volatile compound composition and sensory characteristics. However, the results were inconsistent over the two years apart for total phenols, formation of two volatile compounds (butyl and hexenyl acetate, the first being one of the main odorants in most apple cultivars), sensory attributes of 'flavour of lemon' and 'juiciness'. For these parameters, the fruits from plots where the trees were not covered showed higher values than those from plots where anti-hail nets were used.

CONCLUSIONS
The use of anti-hail nets was effective in preventing the attack of codling moth to apple fruits, suggesting their use in organic management where conventional insecticides are prohibited. Under the conditions tested, anti-hail nets showed a negative effect on some of the quality characteristics measured on apple fruits, which could influence consumer acceptability.


Over the recent years, targeted therapy has become one of the most important innovations in cancer treatment. Agents targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are administered in patients with advanced, recurrent, and metastatic malignancy. Skin toxicity is one of the most common side effects of EGFR inhibitors. In this report, we present the case of a 70 year-old male patient with metastatic colorectal cancer who developed an intertrigo-like eruption during molecular target therapy with cetuximab treated with topical corticosteroid. A complete remission was obtained after 4 weeks.


In Desa Pademonegoro, Kecamatan Sukodono, Sidoarjo the quality of water reservoir consumpted by many people is found to be in a low level and contains unnecessary substances like Mn and Fe. This condition makes water not feasible to consumpt for daily use. This study aimed to manage and purify water by utilizing ark shells freely available in beaches. Ark shells were initially synthesized by coprecipitation techniques using carbon dioxide gas at a pressure of 225 N/cm 2 , 300N/cm 2 ,or 375 N/cm 2 and settling time for 24 hoursor 36 hours. The ark shells were then characterized using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) to determine its CaCO 3 content. The ark shells with a high level of CaCO 3 were used as a water puri fi er on the device spesi fi cially designed on purpose and were tested with shell powder thickness with a thickness of 1 cm, 3 cm, or 5 cm and a water reservoir was placed at a position of 1 m or 2 m measured from the ground. The results indicated that the synthesis of ark shell using carbon dioxide at a pressure of 375 N/cm 2 and settling time for 36 hourshada high level of CaCO 3 and thus was used as a water puri fi er. After purifying, the quality of water is such that it  is odorless and tasteless, its color<2 TCU, turbidity of 0.2 NTU, TDS of 200 mg/l, contains Fe 0.08 mg/l, Mn0.03 mg/l, Hg 0.0001 mg/l,As<0.005mg/l, pH 7.3, detergent <0.01 mg/l, water hardness of 88.32 mg/land saturation ark shells for 27 weeks.


Purpose: Purpose of the present study is to report our technique of the use of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) site excision biopsy wound, for specimen retrieval and gastric conduit formation, in minimally invasive oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer. Methods: It is a retrospective comparative study where we present data of our 100 resectable oesophageal cancer patients who underwent postneoadjuvant minimally invasive oesophagectomy from January 2012 to September 2015. All of the patients had an initial staging endoscopic ultrasound with PEG placement. The prestudy (conventional) approach, i.e., laparoscopic gastric conduit formation along with specimen pull up from the cervical/thoracic wound is compared to the present (Study) group. Results: The two groups were similar for basic demographic variables, tumour stage, morphology and nutritional status. The primary endpoints were an operative time in minutes and any additional procedure-speci c complications. The rate of procedure speci c complications (Abdominal excision wound complications or conduit failure) was low 11%. PEG site excision biopsy was positive in two cases; one adenocarcinoma and one squamous carcinoma, both were mid to lower oesophageal tumours not involving gastroesophageal junction. Conclusions: Bene ts of the approach are ease of gastric conduit formation along with an additional second layer with less operative time through the small wound, avoidance of tumour specimen removal all the way through mediastinum from the cervical incision, and excision of a potential site of oesophageal cancer metastasis, without any added morbidity. Key words: Extracorporeal gastric conduit, minimally invasive oesophagectomy, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy


A geographically distributed web server (GDWS) system consists of multiple server nodes interconnected by a metropolitan area network (MAN) or a wide area network (WAN). It can achieve better eÆciency in handling ever-increasing web requests than centralized web servers because its throughput will not be limited by available bandwidth connecting to a central server. The key research issue in the design of GDWS is how to replicate and distribute the documents of a website among the server nodes. This paper proposes a density-based replication scheme and applies it to our proposed Extensible GDWS architecture. We adopted a partial duplication scheme where document replication targets only at hot objects in a website. To distribute the replicas generated via the density-based replication scheme, we propose four di erent document distribution algorithms: Greedy-cost, Maximal-density, Greedy-penalty, and Proximity-aware. A proximity-based routing mechanism is designed to incorporate these algorithms for achieving better web server performance in a WAN environment. Simulation results show that the Greedy-penalty algorithm yields most stable load balancing performance, and the Greedy-cost algorithm causes least internal traÆc. Our scheme can achieve 80% of the performance of full-replication, with half the disk space.


The aims of holding this forum were firstly to ensure that the latest scientific knowledge on HIV/AIDS (both biomedical and public health) is used to optimise and strengthen government policy and secondly to inform a prospective research agenda. This article reports on the forum its recommendations and the prospects for post-meeting action. (excerpt)


Congenital defects of the omentum may so alter its form as to destroy its protective mechanism and make it a menace to life. Clinically speaking, the intraabdominal bands so often found in relation to the colon are of two types: first, those continuous with and structurally analogous to the omentum, and, second, the more frequently and extensively studied true pericolic membranes. The latter are serous structures more or less closely resembling the peritoneum, and carrying a variable blood supply but no fatty tissue. In the course of a recent study comprising the resection of 169 pathogenic colons, we have been struck with the importance of making a clear distinction between these two anatomically separate structures and their relative capacities for causing serious harm to the colon. Omental bands or deviants, when extensive, are prone to contain a great deal of fibrous tissue which is secondary to the well known bacteriolytic


A cost function expressed by the remainders of the governing equations and the difference between observed values and the solutions was proposed. This method was applied for a two-dimensional room and the performances of the cost function method were examined. The individual type solution, which the governing equation of a variable is partially differentiated with respect to itself, and the integrated type solution, which the governing equation of a variable is partially differentiated with respect to another variable, were compared. The performances of the integrated type solution for combining three data of temperature, concentration and wind components gave the excellent results for all variables than that of the individual type solution.


irritation. The trouble commenced about nine years ago and was at first confined to the index finger. Apart from stammering and a little tendency to urticaria factitia, there appears to be no other abnormality in this patient. There is no blood-eosinophilia. An alternative diagnosis, suggested by the appearance of the finger-webs, is the possibility of linear plane warts. There has been no biopsy.


Courts around the world require witnesses to swear an oath to a religious deity or affirm to tell the truth before providing testimony. It is widely thought that such a process has the potential to give rise to unnecessary bias against witnesses based on their religious beliefs or lack thereof. Scholars have offered two main prescriptions to remedy this problem: (i) abolish the oath and have all witnesses promise to tell the truth; or (ii) require oath-swearing witnesses to invoke a non-specific reference to God. The former proposal is problematic as it rests on the unproven assertion that giving an oath does not bind at least some witnesses' conscience to a greater extent. The latter fails to protect against bias towards atheists and other witnesses who refuse to swear an oath. The aim of this article is to develop an alternative procedure which allows witnesses to swear an oath or affirmation outside of the courtroom. This process not only rids the trial process of unnecessary bias, it also furthers the truth-seeking function of the trial by allowing witnesses to bind their consciousness to a greater extent.


Abstract In the modern geodesy the role of the permanent station is growing constantly. The proper treatment of the time series from such station lead to the determination of the reliable velocities. In this paper we focused on some pre-analysis as well as analysis issues, which have to be performed upon the time series of the North, East and Up components and showed the best, in our opinion, methods of determination of periodicities (by means of Singular Spectrum Analysis) and spatio-temporal correlations (Principal Component Analysis), that still exist in the time series despite modelling. Finally, the velocities of the selected European permanent stations with the associated errors determined following power-law assumption in the stochastic part is presented.


This paper proposes neural networks based graph coloring technique to assign Physical Cell Identities throughout the self organized 3GPP Long Term Evolution Networks. PCIs are allocated such that no two cells in the vicinity of each other or with a common neighbor get the same identity. Efficiency of proposed methodology resides in the fact that minimum number of identities is utilized in the network wise assignment. Simulations are performed on a very large scale network, where initially all the cells are without any PCIs assigned. Results of simulations are demonstrated to analyze the performance of the proposed technique.


This thesis is composed by four chapters which can be classified in two broad topics. The first and second chapters deal with the properties of the networks created by interlock- ing directorates, while the third and fourth chapters with the so-called Efficient Market Hypothesis. Connecting these two topics is the notion of a stylized fact (also called a universal property) which is not accounted for by the currently stablished theory. The first chapter shows that the existence of a very well connected dominant community is not explained by the traditional preferential attachment models. In addition, it is also shown that the patterns of accumulation of board positions by single individuals observed in empirical data cannot be explained by a simple random binomial procedure.
An in depth analysis of a time framed interlocking directorates dataset from Spain is presented in order to argue that board linkages might have generated some kind of special conditions for lending that would not exist if based on economic criteria only. In addition, the effects of a new gender equality regulation are investigate to conclude that women are still under represented in the boards of directors, although an increase in their absolute number could be observed.
Finally, surrogate linearity tests and microscopic (agent based) models are applied in order to explain the stylized facts not account for by the Efficient Market Hypothe- sis. More specifically, with respect to the class of microscopic models called Structural Stochastic Volatility models, it is shown that the introduction of inactive traders in- creases the model ability to explain the stylized facts. Additionally, taking advantage of this model contest, it is argued that a simulation horizon one allows a model to run in order to estimate its parameters higher than what was previously assumed in not necessary in order to compare different models.


The regulation of the reproductive function is complex. It notably depends on highly conserved hypothalamic neuronal networks which lead to the regulation of LH and FSH synthesis and secretion by GnRH. The mechanisms of the hypothalamic regulation of the gonadotropic axis remained poorly understood until 2003 and the description of the role of kisspeptins and their receptor GPR54 as major regulators of hypothalamic GnRH secretion. The Kisspeptins/GPR54 system is the integrative center of all hormonal, metabolic and circadian afferences that converge to the gonadotropic axis during fetal life, puberty and adulthood. Description of the mechanisms underlying pubertal initiation and LH preovulatory peak can now be considered and new pharmacological targets have appeared. The descrip- tion of kisspeptins role in reproduction is a very strong example of how important the analysis of rare orphan diseases can be in order to identify novel physiological systems.


While research suggests that organizational cynicism prompts employees to engage in organizationally directed deviant behaviors, questions remain regarding whether, how and when organizational cynicism can also prompt employees to engage in deviance toward customers, who are third parties outside the organization-employee exchange relationship. Drawing on conservation of resources theory, we develop and test a model that addresses these questions. We theorize that organizational cynicism is an adverse and stressful experience that drains employees' psychological resources over time, which in turn leads to customer-directed deviance. We further propose that perceptions of supervisor support help employees cope functionally with their lack of resources and reduce customer-directed deviant behavior. We tested our predictions in a two-week daily experience sampling study of call-center representatives and found that organizational cynicism indirectly predicts customer-directed deviant behavior via resource depletion when PSS is lower than when it is higher. Two post hoc studies (including a three-wave panel survey conducted over 6 months and a three-wave, time-separated survey conducted over one month) addressed the methodological limitations of this investigation and ruled out alternative explanations for our results. Implications for organizational cynicism and customer service literature are discussed.


Public intervention addressing the issue of underage marriage emphasizes policies such as girls' education and enforcement of age-of-consent laws as promising avenues for ending this harmful practice. It has been argued, however, that such policies will work better in societies where they are supported by men. Yet, there is no study analyzing the role of males' characteristics in relation to early marriage. This paper examines the causal effect of a male's education on the likelihood that he marries an underage girl. Using micro-level data from Nigeria in combination with plausible instrumental variables that address potential endogeneity issues, we find that having more years of schooling significantly reduces the probability of marrying an underage girl. Importantly, we show that this negative relationship is not a mere mechanical effect reflecting the endogeneity between schooling and marriage-timing decisions. Moreover, we find that this relationship is weaker in communities where norms that cast women in submissive roles are stronger. We develop a model that explains this causal effect as resulting from the complementarity between father's and mother's education in the production of child quality.


OBJECTIVE—The study aims to test whether biological interaction between hyperglycemia and albuminuria can explain the inconsistent findings from epidemiological studies and clinical trials about effects of hyperglycemia on stroke in type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A total of 6,445 Hong Kong Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes and free of stroke at enrollment were followed up for a median of 5.37 years. Spline Cox proportional hazard regression was used to obtain hazard ratio curves, which were used to identify cutoff points of A1C and spot urinary albumin–to–creatinine ratio for increased ischemic stroke risk. The identified cutoff point of A1C was used to check biological interaction between A1C and albuminuria (micro- and macroalbuminuria). The biological interaction was estimated using relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index. RESULTS—During the follow-up period, 4.45% (n = 287) of patients developed ischemic stroke. A1C was associated with increased hazard ratios of ischemic stroke in a near-linear manner except for two points—6.2 and 8.0%—where the slope between these two points accelerated. For A1C values <6.2%, the presence of micro/macroalbuminuria did not confer additional risk, while significant biological interaction between A1C and micro/macroalbuminuria for values ≥6.2% was observed (RERI 0.92, 95% CI 0.16–1.68, and AP 0.40, 0.01–0.78). CONCLUSIONS—A1C ≥6.2% and micro/macroalbuminuria interact to markedly increase the ischemic stroke risk, which explains a large proportion of risk in patients with type 2 diabetes harboring both risk factors.


Mutations in transmembrane protein 230 (TMEM230) gene are suggested to be associated with the autosomal dominant Parkinson's disease (PD) with typical movement disorders and Lewy body pathology. However, the normal functions and the pathological roles of TMEM230 are not clear. In this study, we used TMEM230 isoform II constructs including wild-type (WT) and four reported PD-linked mutation constructs (Y92C, R141L, 184Wext*5, and 184PGext*5). Ectopic expression of WT and PD-linked mutant TMEM230 variants in cultured cells dramatically induced apoptotic cell death compared with that of vector control cells. Mutant TMEM230 caused cell toxicity at an increased severity than WT TMEM230. Moreover, expression of TMEM230 increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, decreased cellular ATP, activated caspase 3/7, and increased poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1) cleavage. Treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC; an ROS scavenger) or Z-VAD-FMK (a caspase inhibitor) significantly attenuated TMEM230-induced apoptosis in both cultured cells and primary neurons. Our results indicated that TMEM230 mediated a PARP1-linked apoptotic cell death pathway. These findings not only provide the novel insight into the biological roles of TMEM230 in the PARP1-linked pathway but also provide a TMEM230-induced cell death mechanism underlying PD pathogenesis.


Male bowerbirds (Ptilonorhynchidae) build bowers, and adorn them with decorations to attract mates. We investigated preference for, and spatial arrangement of, decorations of different colours at bowers in a population of the western subspecies of the Great Bowerbird Ptilonorhynchus nuchalis nuchalis, near Darwin, Northern Territory. Decorations mainly comprised snail shells, stones, pieces of glass, and cycad fruits. The colours of most decorations were white, grey or green. Red materials, preferred in eastern populations of the species, were seldom found in these bowers. The spatial distribution of decorations on the bower platforms had a distinct pattern according to colour. Although both grey and white objects were widely spread over the entire platform, the former tended to be placed near the avenue and the latter towards the outer platform. Green objects were consistently placed separately on both sides of the entrances of the avenue. After decorations were experimentally removed from five bowers, the owners placed the decorations of different colours back again in a configuration similar to that present before removal. As green objects were held in the male's bill during courtship displays, their placement next to the avenue entrance was practical for the male, and the background placement of white and grey objects may serve to make green objects and a male's lavender crest more conspicuous.


OBJECTIVE
Does the strength of the youth-therapist alliance differ across treatment settings or treatment type? We examined these questions in the context of youth therapy.

METHOD
Eighty-nine youths (M age = 10.56, SD = 1.99; 63.70% Caucasian; 52.80% male) diagnosed with an anxiety disorder received (a) manual-based individual cognitive-behavioral therapy (ICBT) in a research setting, (b) manual-based ICBT in practice settings, or (c) nonmanualized usual care (UC) in practice settings. Coders, using the Therapy Process Observational Coding System-Alliance scale, rated 865 sessions. Youth completed the Therapeutic Alliance Scale for Children at posttreatment.

RESULTS
Youth who received ICBT in a research setting had significantly higher observer-rated alliance than youth who received either therapy delivered in practice settings. In practice settings, youth who received ICBT had significantly stronger observer-rated alliance early in treatment than youth in UC, but this difference was not observed at the end of treatment. Similarly, youth-report alliance at posttreatment was significantly higher in ICBT in the research setting, and there was no difference between ICBT and UC delivered in practice settings. Alliance differences largely held when controlling for youth characteristics; however, differences early in treatment between the ICBT groups were no longer statistically significant when controlling for anxiety severity or primary anxiety diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS
Our findings suggest that (a) the alliance may be stronger in research settings, and (b) treatment manuals do not undermine alliance. Future research is required to help pinpoint whether other youth, therapist, or setting factors contribute to the lower alliance seen in practice settings.


The article describes applications that can benefit from integrated mobile computing and workflow management technologies. Such applications empower a mobile workforce to perform coordinated and streamlined work activities in the field or on the road. We discuss characteristics of these applications and workflow management for supporting these applications. We suggest that mobility support not only extends the application domains of workflow management, but also raises more general issues concerning adaptation paradigms for supporting mobile applications.


Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a demyelinating disease showing multifocal central nervous system lesions due to an autoimmune disorder. We reported a 3-month-old girl with ADEM. One week after having a cold, she presented with somnolence, poor feeding and vomiting. When she was admitted three days after the onset, she could neither fix or follow objects with her eyes nor respond to sound. Her muscle tone was decreased. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed pleocytosis, elevated protein concentration and positive myelin basic protein. No oligoclonal band was detected. Diffuse monomorphic slow wave activity was noted on the electroencephalogram. Only wave I was present bilaterally on the auditory brainstem response. T2 weighted images of magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple areas of high signal in the right posterior limb of the internal capsule, white matter of the cerebellum and brainstem. She was diagnosed as having ADEM, and underwent high dose gamma-globulin therapy. Corticosteroids were not given because of her high blood pressure. The clinical symptoms improved continuously before and after the administration. Two years after the onset, she showed normal growth and development without reoccurrence. The age at onset of childhood ADEM is usually 3 or 4 years. ADEM before one year of age is very rare. The demyelinating lesions of this case corresponded to the regions which normally become myelinated by 3 months. Although ADEM is usually treated with corticosteroids, high dose gamma 1-globulin therapy can be considered if patients are very young or have a high risk for corticosteroid, or respond poorly to corticosteroids.


Common feeds usually contain essential minerals but often in insufficient amounts or in suboptimal ratios. Beside basic feeds, animals require dietary mineral supplements in order to maintain good health and production, especially if kept in confinement permanently. Adequate mineral uptake together with food and water intake represents one of the basic requirements for successful animal production. Animal feeding practice uses numerous mineral supplements to provide calcium. Limestone (calcium carbonate) is the most widely used out of them all. The aim of this paper was to examine the variability in composition of limestone for animal feeds produced in B&H in relation to the current national Regulations on Animal Feed. Content of calcium (Ca) was determined in 71 samples of limestone, content of magnesium (Mg) in 56, and content of iron (Fe) in 29 samples. All samples originated from two B&H producers. Minerals Ca, Mg and Fe were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed that the composition of limestone for animal feeds varied widely in relation to the current Regulations on Animal Feed. Content of Ca ranged from 22,8% to 39,78%, and content of Mg from 0,13% to 12,28%.


One of the most fundamental characteristics about humans is their desire for success, especially in highly competitive societies. What does it take to be successful? Is success simply a matter of better performance, and if so, what specifically is it about performance that determines success? A long research tradition suggests that psychological momentum (PM) plays a critical role in goal pursuit and achievement. Accordingly, sequential runs of success are an essential feature of high levels of performance, meaning that better performers perceive and experience momentum of success more frequently, ride it as long as they can, and as a result, become more successful in the end. Theoretically, momentum is a principle vehicle of performance that will significantly augment future success and facilitate goal achievement. Consequently, an overall performance consists of occurrences of momentum that vary in frequency and duration. The higher the frequency and the higher the duration, the more likely is success. Research suggests that the main psychological processes that underpin momentum effects are confidence, perceived competence, and internal (ability-skill) attributions. Based upon related research, it is hypothesized that PM starts as a conscious process but subsequently becomes a major facilitator of nonconscious automatic execution of human behavior and performance.


Food borne pathogen, Salmonella spp. was isolated and characterized from spoiled food samples. In order to develop control strategy and to eradicate this pathogen, bacteriophages were isolated from river water samples. Isolated bacteriophages showed large clear plaques indicating presence of lytic phages with higher infectivity and burst size of 712 x 10 PFU/ml. Genome size of the bacteriophage was approximately 33967 bp with 3 fragments yielded from AluI restriction and 2 fragments from MluI restriction. EcoRI and HindIII endonucleases could not restrict phage DNA. Proteome analysis showed 9 well separated bands on SDS PAGE.


Emerging data from early phase clinical studies of AAV gene therapy for hemophilia B (HB) (factor IX [FIX] deficiency) show sustained expression of therapeutic levels of FIX and phenotypic improvement. However, the safety and efficacy of in vivo gene therapy is limited by the vector dose. Recently, we reported a naturally occurring, hyperfunctional FIX (FIX Padua) caused by a single amino acid change of arginine 338 to leucine that exhibits an 8-fold increase in specific activity in humans (N Engl J Med 2009), making it a potential candidate for HB gene therapy with reduced vector doses. However, to take advantage of FIX Padua for HB gene therapy, it is critical to first define the risk of immunogenicity of this variant in preclinical models of severe HB. We have previously shown that delivery of AAV-cFIX-Padua to skeletal muscle in HB dogs with a missense mutation in the canine (c) F9 gene resulted in no anti-FIX neutralizing antibodies (inhibitors), non-neutralizing antibodies (IgG) or FIX-specific T-cell response (Blood 2012). While promising, these dogs express FIX RNA and have a pre-existing tolerance to cFIX due to the nature of their mutation, and so do not represent the most rigorous model for immunogenicity studies. Here, we tested the efficacy and immunogenicity of cFIX Padua in a severe HB dog colony with an early stop codon mutation. This mutation results in no FIX RNA transcript, and the dogs are prone to develop cFIX inhibitors upon exposure to protein concentrates. Three dogs were infused peripherally with a liver-specific AAV8-cFIX-Padua at two different doses, and monitored for cFIX antigen and activity levels and inhibitors. The first dog, which received 3 x 1012 vg/kg, showed average plateaued expression levels of 3.98 ± 1.44% antigen and 24.5 ± 4.1% activity, with no development of anti-cFIX inhibitors or IgG antibodies. Whole blood clotting time (WBCT) and aPTTs returned to normal by day 3 post-vector administration and have remained stable for >20 months (ongoing observations). A second dog was treated with a lower dose of 1 x 1012 vg/kg and showed average plateaued expression levels of 2.41 ± 0.05% antigen and 22.0 ± 0.4% activity, with no development of anti-cFIX inhibitors or IgG antibodies. WBCT and aPTTs returned to normal by day 3 post-vector administration and have remained stable for >3 months. An additional dog, upon previous exposure to recombinant human (h) FIX protein, had developed inhibitors that cross-reacted with cFIX. This immune response was ongoing at the time of vector administration (3 x 1012 vg/kg). Anti-cFIX antibodies peaked at day 14 post-AAV, with 4.7 BUs and 3643 ng/mL IgG2, but dropped to undetectable levels by day 70. There was a concurrent rise in cFIX Padua expression levels, suggesting successful tolerization to the cFIX Padua. Antigen levels plateaued at 14.6 ± 4.3% and activity at 51.7 ± 23.5%, with ongoing normalization of WBCT and aPTTs for >18 months. In all three dogs, cholesterol, albumin and total protein were within normal limits with no clinical or laboratory evidence of nephrotic syndrome (a potential complication in FIX inhibitor patients that have undergone immune tolerance induction with frequent FIX protein injections). The safety of FIX Padua was further confirmed using a mouse model of HB. Mice (n=8-12/group) were treated with 5 x 1010 vg/kg liver-directed AAV8-hFIX-WT or AAV8-hFIX-Padua, resulting in expression levels of 1076 ± 343 ng/mL (21.5 ± 6.9% antigen, 67.5 ± 10.1% activity) and 797 ± 255 ng/mL (15.9 ± 5.1% antigen, 274.8 ± 73.8% activity), respectively. In cross-over experiments, the mice were then were immunologically challenged 10-15 weeks after gene delivery with 100 ug/kg of the reciprocal recombinant protein (ie mice expressing hFIX Padua were challenged with hFIX WT, and visa versa). Challenges were administered subcutaneously alone or with adjuvant (CFA) weekly for 4 weeks. In no instance did mice develop antibodies to either FIX, suggesting that tolerance was successfully induced in all cases. Together, these date show that FIX Padua shows no increase in immunogenicity compared to FIX WT and is capable not only of preventing inhibitor formation, but also of eradicating pre-existing inhibitory antibodies to FIX in an inhibitor-prone HB dog model. Thus, FIX Padua is an attractive transgene that will allow for decreased vector doses in human HB gene therapy, improving the safety profile of AAV liver gene therapy without increased immunogenicity. Disclosures: High:Alnylam Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; BioMarin: Consultancy; bluebirdbio, Inc.: Consultancy, Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; BristolMyersSquibb: Consultancy, membership on a Data Safety and Monitoring Board, membership on a Data Safety and Monitoring Board Other; Elsevier, Inc.: royalties from textbook, royalties from textbook Patents & Royalties; Genzyme, Inc.: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Intrexon: Consultancy; Novo Nordisk: Consultancy, Member of a grant review committee, Member of a grant review committee Other; Shire : Consultancy; Benitec: Consultancy.


During July 1995, an outbreak of Salmonella typhimurium definitive type (DT) 170, an unusual strain, occurred in South Wales. A case-control study found that illness was associated with eating kebabs (odds ratio undefined, P=0·002), doner kebabs (odds ratio 7·9, 95% confidence interval 1·5–20·5, P=0·02) and kebabs with yoghurt based relish (odds ratio undefined, P=0·009) but not with eating kebabs with mayonnaise-based relish (odds ratio 2·4, 95% confidence interval 0·4–13·9, P=0·53). Environmental investigations discovered a complex web of producers and wholesale suppliers. Kebab meat and yoghurt had been supplied to the two main implicated outlets by a single wholesaler. Samples of raw minced lamb and several environmental swabs taken at the wholesaler were positive for S. typhimurium DT170. Blood- stained, unsealed yoghurt pots were observed to be stored under a rack of raw lamb. Investigators of food poisoning outbreaks linked to takeaway food should consider cross- contaminated relishes and dressings as well as undercooked meat as potential vehicles of infection.


The water crisis is one of the most significant issues in Sri Lanka after the Tsunami inclusive of Batticaloa district. The people those who are living in the Batticaloa district especially in Tsunami affected areas are suffering to get drinking water. The CIDA restore project targeted Palameenmadu and Puthukkudiyiruppu areas in order to find out the quality of drinking water. The questionnaire survey showed that even though 100% of the people from these two villages mainly depended on their home well to get drinking water before the Tsunami, none of them use their well for drinking purposes after the Tsunami. Based on this survey it was decided to test the water quality parameters in order to provide safe drinking water. There are 332 and 252 families in the Puthukkudiyiruppu and Palameenmadu areas respectively. It was very difficult to convince them to use their well, because they believed some wrong information about their drinking well water. Several kinds of activities and workshops were undertaken to remove their myths and to disseminate knowledge about the drinking water quality. At present all the villagers have started to use wells for drinking purpose after some practical activities and workshops.


ABSTRACT The evolution of natural modular proteins and domain swapping by protein engineers have shown the disruptive potential of non-homologous recombination to create proteins with novel functions or traits. Bacteriophage endolysins, cellulosomes and polyketide synthases are 3 examples of natural modular proteins with each module having a dedicated function. These modular architectures have been created by extensive duplication, shuffling of domains and insertion/deletion of new domains. Protein engineers mimic these natural processes in vitro to create chimeras with altered properties or novel functions by swapping modules between different parental genes. Most domain swapping efforts are realized with traditional restriction and ligation techniques, which become particularly restrictive when either a large number of variants, or variants of proteins with multiple domains have to be constructed. Recent advances in homology-independent shuffling techniques increasingly address this need, but to realize the full potential of the synthetic biology of modular proteins a complete homology-independent method for both rational and random shuffling of modules from an unlimited number of parental genes is still needed.


Permutation tests are widely used in genomic research as a straightforward way to obtain reliable statistical inference without making strong distributional assumptions. However, in this paper we show that in genetic association studies it is not typically possible to construct exact permutation tests of gene‐gene or gene‐environment interaction hypotheses. We describe an alternative to the permutation approach in testing for interaction, a parametric bootstrap approach. Using simulations, we compare the finite‐sample properties of a few often‐used permutation tests and the parametric bootstrap. We consider interactions of an exposure with single and multiple polymorphisms. Finally, we address when permutation tests of interaction will be approximately valid in large samples for specific test statistics.


The study was conducted in an urban forest fragment located in the Camaragibe city, Pernambuco, Brazil with the objective of assessing the potential of this fragment as a source of seedlings for enrichment projects in areas of the same forest typology. Thus, was performed the classification of the ecological groups and of the dispersal syndromes of tree and scrub species of the natural regeneration. The biota was represented by 40 species belonging to 38 genera and 24 botanical families for a total of 395 individuals. These, 38 were identified at specific level and 2 at the generic level. The families that contributed most to floristic richness in terms of amount of species in alphabetical order were: Anacardiaceae, Annonaceae, Burseraceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Meliaceae, Mimosaceae, Moraceae, Rubiaceae, Sapindaceae and Tiliaceae. The dispersal syndrome was the predominant zoochory, identified in 87.5%, followed by anemochory, which represented 7.5% of cases. These results show the good conservation of the fragment studied, and confirm the viability of using it as a source of seeds for revegetation activities in areas of the same forest typology.


In this work we made an attempt to assess the effect of drug-induced changes of flexibility on the penetration of deformable vesicles into the human skin. Eight cationic liposomes with different degrees of flexibility were obtained by entrapping unfractionated heparin, enoxaparin, and nadroparin. The deformability was studied by a novel, facile, and reliable extrusion assay appositely developed and validated by means of quantitative nanoscale mechanical AFM measurements of vesicle elastic modulus (log10(YM)). The proposed extrusion assay, determining the forces involved in vesicles deformation, resulted very sensitive to evidence of minimal changes in bilayer rigidity (σ) and vesicle deformation (K). The drug loading caused a reduction of liposome flexibility with respect to the reference plain liposomes and in accordance to the heparin type, drug to cationic lipid (DOTAP) ratio, and drug distribution within the vesicles. Interestingly, the σ and log10(YM) values perfectly correlated (R2 = 0.935), demonstrating the reliability of the deformability data obtained with both approaches. The combination of TEM and LC-MS/MS spectrometry allowed the pattern of the penetration of the entire vesicles into the skin to be followed. In all cases, intact liposomes in the epidermis layers were observed and a relationship between the depth of penetration and the liposome flexibility was found, supporting the hypothesis of the whole vesicle penetration mechanism. Moreover, the results of the extent (R24) of vesicle penetration in the human skin samples showed a direct relation to the flexibility values (σ1 = 0.65 ± 0.10 MPa → R24 = 3.33 ± 0.02 μg/mg; σ2 = 0.95 ± 0.04 MPa → R24 = 1.18 ± 0.26 μg/mg; σ3 = 1.89 ± 0.30 MPa → R24 = 0.53 ± 0.33 μg/mg).


Objective: to determine the effect of the initial comorbid burden in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) and resectable liver metastases on the development of postoperative complications, depending on the use of laparoscopic or standard open operations. Materials and Methods: the study included 311 patients with verifed metastatic CRC T3-4N1-2M1 and resectable metastases in the liver. Depending on the organization of the surgical treatment, the patients were divided into two groups: the main group (n=161) performed laparoscopic surgical interventions and a control group (n=150) of patients with the same pathology who underwent traditional open operations. Te comorbidity was assessed by the Charlins comorbidity index, the risk of cardiovascular complications according to Goldman, the adjusted Lee index. Te effect of comorbidity on postoperative complications was studied by the method of constructing conjugacy tables. Results: in patients with metastatic RTC in class IV of the risk of cardiovascular complications according to Goldman and high cardiovascular risk in the Lee index, open surgical interventions had an advantage over laparoscopic surgery because of the risk of life-threatening cardiopulmonary pathology. In the I-III class of the risk of cardiovascular complications according to Goldman and low, as well as intermediate cardiovascular risk in Lee, the laparoscopic operations were not accompanied by an increased risk of postoperative cardiovascular complications and were accompanied, in addition to the traditional advantages of minor trauma, by reducing the complications associated with removal oncological drug, as well as infectious wound complications in the place of surgical intervention. Conclusion: when deciding whether to perform laparoscopic interventions in patients with metastatic CRC and resectable metastases in the liver, it is necessary to assess the comorbid load on the Goldman and Lee index before the operation.


A library guide intended for Hilda Fernandez' English 1S/T course. Lists books, articles, and websites on the history of education and what it means to be an educated person.


Nitric oxide (NO) production via NO synthase (NOS) plays a vital role in plant tolerance to salt stress. However, the factor(s) regulating NOS-like activity in plant salt stress tolerance remains elusive. Here, we show that Arabidopsis SORTING NEXIN 1 (SNX1), which can restore H2O2-induced NO accumulation in yeast Δsnx4 mutant, functions in plant salt stress tolerance. Salt stress induced NO accumulation through promoted NOS-like activity in the wild type, but this induction was repressed in salt-stressed snx1-2 mutant with the mutation of SNX1 because NOS-like activity was inhibited in the mutant. Consistently, snx1-2 displayed reduced tolerance to high salinity with decreased survival rate compared with the wild type, and exogenous treatment with NO donor significantly rescued the hypersensitivity of the mutant to salt stress. In addition, the snx1-2 mutant with reduced NOS-like activity repressed the expression of stress-responsive genes, decreased proline accumulation and anti-oxidant ability compared with wild-type plants when subjected to salt stress. Taken together with our finding that salt induces the expression of SNX1, our results reveal that SNX1 plays a crucial role in plant salt stress tolerance by regulating NOS-like activity and thus NO accumulation.


Central achromatopsia is an impairment of color perception caused by damage to the visual association cortex. Its psychophysical underpinnings remain poorly defined. We report our attempt to characterize the defect along critical dimensions of color space, taking advantage of the same standardized tasks that allow detailed profiles in patients with retinal cone defects. We studied two patients. The results in patient 1 showed that perceptual color space was collapsed along the red-green (R-G) and short-wavelength-sensitive cone (S-cone) dimensions but that discriminations along achromatic dimensions were relatively preserved. Additional observations showed that the defect was dependent on target size, and that processing of surface and light source effects that differ from color (eg, transparency) was intact. Patient 2 showed a less severe color processing defect involving signals arising from the S-cones of the retina, although an E-G defect was also present. The profiles in these two patients demonstrate that central achromatopsia encompasses a range of color processing impairments with varied psychophysical characteristics.


Differences in the ways in which males and females maximize evolutionary fitness can lead to intra-locus sexual conflict in which genes delivering fitness benefits to one sex are costly when expressed in the other. Trade-offs between current reproductive effort and future reproduction and survival are fundamental to the evolutionary biology of ageing. This leads to the prediction that sex differences in the optimization of age-dependent reproductive effort may generate intra-locus sexual conflict over ageing rates. Here we test for intra-locus sexual conflict over age-dependent reproductive effort and longevity in the black field cricket, Teleogryllus commodus. Using a half-sib breeding design, we show that the most important components of male and female reproductive effort (male calling effort and the number of eggs laid by females) were positively genetically correlated, especially in early adulthood. However, the genetic relationships between longevity and reproductive effort were different for males and females, leading to low genetic covariation between male and female longevity. The apparent absence of intra-locus sexual conflict over ageing suggests that male and female longevity can evolve largely independently of one another.


The introduction to the focused issue draws attention to research in the history of textiles and fashion among International Textile and Apparel Association members. It is divided into three parts: the past, the present, and the future. In the first section, a review of the history of dress and textiles under the umbrella of "clothing and textiles" is provided. In the section on the present, a snapshot is given of the current situation now that dress and textile history has been accepted by a wide range of academic disciplines. Finally, suggestions are offered to move the historic area forward in the journal and the organization.


Abstract

This study aims to discuss the critical success factors of introducing ISO international quality management system, to provide reference for Taiwan's traditional industries when they introduce the ISO international quality management system, and reduce various costs and time process of the introduction. Firstly, this study collects constructs from several relevant literatures, and categorizes 5 primary constructs and 20 secondary constructs based on the actual business situation of Taiwan's traditional industry. In the second stage, Likert's five-point scale is used to extract 3 secondary constructs with the highest scores under the 5 primary constructs respectively. The Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) is used to carry out questionnaire survey and obtain the relative weights of various primary and secondary constructs. It obtains the relative weights of 5 primary constructs and several secondary constructs, the primary constructs are "policy-related factors", "technology-related actors", "people-related factors", "documents and data", and "management review". Furthermore, it extracts 15 secondary constructs and puts forth 6 propositions as research conclusion. It is hoped that the findings can provide important reference basis for the introduction of ISO international quality management system in Taiwan's manufacturing industry, and thus speed up the time process and reduce cost of the introduction.

JEL classification numbers: C83, M15, O31.
Keywords: Manufacturing industry, ISO, Critical success factors.


Introduction: Ropivacaine is popular as a safe intrathecal anaesthetic drug due to its higher safety profile over bupivacaine. Intrathecal additives are known to increase the quality of anaesthesia and analgesic duration. Aim: To compare the effects of clonidine and fentanyl as intrathecal adjuvants to hyperbaric ropivacaine in elective infraumbilical surgeries. Materials and Methods: This randomized, double-blinded, clinical study was undertaken at Krishnarajendra hospital and Cheluvamba hospital, attached to Mysore Medical College and Research Institute, Mysuru, Karnataka, India, from January 2018 to June 2018. Total 60 adult patients aged between 18-60 years of age, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I and II status, and posted for infraumbilical surgeries, were randomized to two groups of 30 patients each i.e., group C patients receiving 2.5 mL of hyperbaric 0.42% ropivacaine and clonidine 15 mcg, and group F patients receiving 2.5 mL of hyperbaric 0.42% ropivacaine and fentanyl 25 mcg. The onset, extent and duration of sensory and motor blockade, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, prolongation of analgesia in the post operative period, and any complications were observed. Statistical analysis was done using student's t-test, and Chi-square test to test significance of variables. The p-value <0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results: Demographic characteristics were comparable in both the groups. The onset of sensory blockade and the maximum height of sensory blockade attained were similar in both groups i.e., group C-2.12±0.22 min vs group F-2.24±0.66 min, group C-4.94±0.91 min vs group F-5.12±1.38 min, respectively. The duration of sensory blockade was prolonged in group C (148.5±10.84 min vs 109.37±14.5 min), resulting in delayed demand for analgesic after surgery in this group. The onset of motor block and the complete motor blockade was prolonged in group C patients (3.22±1.01 min vs 1.16±0.3 min, 6.8±1.49 min vs 3.72±1.31min). The recovery from motor blockade was also significantly delayed in Group C (125.17±13.29 min vs 95.47±13.08 min). The incidence of hypotension was similar in both the groups. Conclusion: Clonidine, and fentanyl both provide early and adequate spinal anaesthesia, but the former (clonidine 15 mcg), prolongs the duration of spinal anaesthesia with Ropivacaine 0.42% hyperbaric solution, and significantly increases the time for the demand for analgesia in the recovery period, compared to fentanyl


This study aims to identify the components of a knowledge management (KM) model to support innovation governance in a Colombian cosmetics cluster. The inter-organisational management of knowledge applied to innovation governance, and the perspective of endogenous economic development emphasises the structural specificities of developing countries. In line with this objective, the community-based participatory research (CBPR) and Delphi methods were combined to collect information from the cluster's different stakeholders, among them dependent shareholders who expressed their views through spokespersons. In an initial stage, a knowledge management model was built. After a second stage with a planning exercise, it integrates organisational and contextualisation proposals, together with the specificities of each of the cluster's stakeholders.


This paper presents an unaccustomed mechanism for health care monitoring system that is wirelessly implemented. Intra-body communication is a promising wireless communication technology that uses human body as the transmission medium and thereby making it private, lower power consuming and more immune to risks from wired devices. This cable-free technology is added as a new physical layer with the IEEE standard 802.15.6. Nowadays portable devices everywhere make a revolutionary change. The proposed system is also implemented in the form a wearable device that can able to measure heartbeat, temperature and blood pressure. Keywords—Cable-free technology,immune to risks, IEEE standard 802.15.6,Wearable device.


We review several cosmological backgrounds of gravitational waves accessible to direct-detection experiments, with a special emphasis on those backgrounds due to first-order phase transitions and networks of cosmic (super-)strings. For these two particular sources, we revisit in detail the computation of the gravitational wave background and improve the results of previous works in the literature. We apply our results to identify the scientific potential of the NGO/eLISA mission of ESA regarding the detectability of cosmological backgrounds.


Abstract Chiu LZF, Yaremko A, and vonGaza GL. Addition of glute-ham-gastroc raise to a resistance training program: effect on jump propulsion and landing. J Strength Cond Res 31(9): 2562–2571, 2017—Exercises such as squats and cleans are commonly used in resistance training programs to enhance athletic performance. However, these exercises may not effectively train the gastrocnemius, an important muscle for energy generation and absorption. The purpose of this research was to examine the effects of adding glute-ham-gastroc raise exercise to target the gastrocnemius to a traditional resistance training program involving squats and cleans. Vertical jump height, weight-bearing ankle dorsiflexion, and jump propulsion and landing mechanics were examined before and after an 8-week training intervention in female youth volleyball players. Approach (with: [INCREMENT] = 2.6 ± 1.7 cm; 90% confidence interval [CI] [1.8–3.6 cm] vs. without: [INCREMENT] = 1.8 ± 1.9 cm; 90% CI [0.8–2.8 cm]) and standing (with: [INCREMENT] = 2.7 ± 1.7 cm; 90% CI [1.7–3.6 cm] vs. without: [INCREMENT] = 1.6 ± 1.5 cm; 90% CI [0.8–2.4 cm]) vertical jump height increased more in the group performing glute-ham-gastroc raise. Weight-bearing ankle dorsiflexion increased when glute-ham-gastroc raise was included (left: [INCREMENT] = 4.1 ± 4.1°; 90% CI [1.9–6.4°] and right: [INCREMENT] = 4.1 ± 3.9°; 90% CI [1.9–6.2°]) but did not appear to change with resistance training only (left: [INCREMENT] = 1.4 ± 4.5°; 90% CI [−1.0 to 3.9°] and right: [INCREMENT] = 2.5 ± 4.4°; [−0.3 to 4.5°]). No discernible differences were observed for changes in jump propulsion and landing mechanics between groups. Glute-ham-gastroc raise may have a beneficial effect with young athletes when added to squat- and clean-based resistance training programs.


This paper studies the stochastic resonance effect in a hierarchical integrate-and-fire (IF) neural networks characterized by the measure of average mutual information. It is shown that, as the internal noise intensity increases, the average mutual information can be optimized at an optimal non-zero noise level. It is also noted that the maximum of mutual information obtained in the resonant region can be further enhanced for a suitable signal frequency. This leads to the more efficient transduction of signals in the IF neural network. Correspondingly, the interval time of spikes, regularly established at the optimal noise level, is in accord with the input signal period. The present results are meaningful to the study of signal transduction through hierarchical IF neural networks.


Effects of the duct inlet guide vane on the flowrate distribution characteristics of the defroster nozzle exit in a defrost duct system were investigated experimentally to design the optimum heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system applied in an automotive compartment. A 3-dimensional hot-wire anemometer system was used to measure the velocity field in the vicinity of the defroster nozzle jet flow and the velocity distributions near the windshield interior surface. At first, two cases of with- and without-duct inlet guide vanes were considered as the test condition, and then three cases of the duct inlet guide vane were tested to determine the optimum guide vane shape and their positions. The arrangement of the duct inlet guide vanes has an effect on the improved flowrate distribution at the defroster nozzle exit and near the windshield interior surface. However, the application of the lots of guide vane to control the flow direction leads to increase the flow resistance, resulting in the decreased flowrate issuing from the defroster nozzle. The shape of the duct inlet guide vane affects not only the flowrate distribution between the driver side and the assistant driver side but also the reduction of the flow resistance in the defrost duct system.


This practice-based research presents an analysis of the representation of embodied
experience in the travelogue film genre. It reflects upon the embodied and synaesthesic
nature of the cinematic experience by tracing a shift in travelogue filmmaking from the
ocular realism characteristic of early travelogue films to the emergence and
proliferation of subjective approaches. Moreover, it analyses experimental travelogue
films and the capacity of non-linear and non-narrative structures to express sensuous,
embodied perception.
9 Meditations is the practice component of this thesis. It is an experimental travelogue
film. Through its production this research explores the translation of embodied
experience as a multi-sensory process into filmmaking practice.
In the field of film studies, the travelogue has not been widely discussed outside
historical approaches, and it has certainly never been discussed in relation to
phenomenology and embodied sensation. This research articulates a new conceptual
framework for both the production and theorisation of the travelogue film, as a form
that is intrinsically related to performance, subjectivity and embodied perception.
Moreover, this research concerns both the production process in filmmaking practice
and the cinematic experience as grounded in synaesthesic, embodied perception. This
approach brings to the forefront the capacity of audiovisual practice to both encode and
produce sensuous knowledge.


pointing out that despite their intimate connections, energy and information are also essentially different insofar as energy can be nothing other than itself, while information as a signifier is always something other than its energetic self. In the current intellectual atmosphere one can be almost suffocated by the excess of theory devoted to digitality, information, virtuality and cybridization. Any wide-ranging and imaginative consideration given to the cultural economy of energy, by contrast, is extremely rare (and in this respect the book is worth getting for the references alone). Those of us who have been taken to task for deploying the concept of energy outside the domain of science or engineering will strongly welcome this thoroughly researched and, by and large, clearly written anthology. I suspect that it is as an early and vivid contribution to the emerging field of cultural thermodynamics that From Energy to Information will leave its trace.


A new PEG2000-b-PFPE1200-b-PEG2000 amphiphilic triblock copolymer was synthesized by copper(I)-catalyzed alkyne–azide cycloaddition (CuAAC). The microstructure of this ABA triblock copolymer was unequivocally characterized by NMR spectroscopy. Diffusion-ordered spectroscopy (DOSY) NMR experiment revealed that 1H resonances belonging to PEG and PFPE are aligned on the same horizontal line, thus implying that all these signals are due to the same macromolecule whose diffusion coefficient is lower than that of PEG and PFPE homopolymers. Thanks to its semi-fluorinated backbone bearing robust triazole rings, the PEG2000-b-PFPE1200-b-PEG2000 triblock copolymer exhibits good thermal stability with no significant weight loss until 275 °C under air. This triblock copolymer undergoes self-assembly into micelles (D = 10–20 nm) in aqueous solution as confirmed from cryogenic-temperature transmission electron microscopy, DOSY experiment in D2O, and dynamic light scattering. The critical micelle concentration was determined by pyrene fluorescence assay, and was found to be 0.1 mg mL−1.


This study reports on the model development and open-source implementation (in Java) of an agent-based computational wholesale power market organized in accordance with core FERC-recommended design features and operating over a realistically rendered transmission grid. The traders within this market model are strategic profit-seeking agents whose learning behaviors are based on data from human-subject experiments. Our key experimental focus is the complex interplay among structural conditions, market protocols, and learning behaviors in relation to short-term and longer-term market performance. Findings for a dynamic 5-node transmission grid test case are presented for concrete illustration.


The pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L) Millspaugh] is one of the most important perennial legume crops utilized in the food, fodder, soil conservation, crop-livestock integrated systems, reclaiming of degraded pastures and symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Microsatellite markers were used to estimate the genetic diversity of 77 pigeonpea genotypes selected from the germplasm collections at Embrapa Cattle-Southeast and, to evaluate their transferability to Phaseolus vulgaris and Vigna unguiculata species. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to12, with an average of 5.1 alleles. The PIC values ranged from 0.11 to 0.80 (average 0.49) and the D values from 0.23 to 0.91 (average 0.58). The averages of observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.25 and 0.47, respectively, showing a deficit in heterozygosity. A model-based Bayesian approach implemented in the software STRUCTURE was used to assign genotypes into clusters. A dendrogram was constructed based on the modified Roger's genetic distances using a neighbor-joining method (NJ). A total of four clusters were assembled by STRUCTURE and a strong tendency of correspondence between the Bayesian clusters in the NJ tree was observed. The genetic distance ranged from 0.09 to 0.62 (average 0.37), showing a low genetic diversity in the pigeonpea genotypes. Transferability of pigeonpea-specific microsatellites revealed a cross-amplification and the presence of polymorphic alleles in P. vulgaris and V. unguiculata.


Image security has wide applications in data transferring from
source to destination system. However, cryptography is a data secrecy technique between sender and
receiver, the steganography increases the level of security and acts a
protective layer to the hidden information within the source image. In this
paper, a compression scheme based image security algorithm for wireless sensor
network is proposed to hide a secret color image within the source color image.
The main contribution of this paper is to propose a compression scheme which is
based on level matrix and integer matrix, and increases the compression
level significantly. The performance of the proposed system is evaluated in
terms of peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR), mean square error (MSE), number of
pixels change rate (NPCR) and unified average changing intensity (UACI). The
proposed method achieves 42.65% PSNR, 27.16% MSE, 99.9% NPCR and 30.99% UACI.


Perttunen, Jarmo Foot Loading in Normal and Pathological Walking Jyvaskyla: University of Jyvaskyla, 2002, 86 p. (Studies in Sport, Physical Education and Health, ISSN 0356-1070; 83) ISBN 951-39-1222-1 Finnish summary Diss. The present series of studies was designed to study the interaction between foot loading patterns and neuromusculoskeletal adaptation during normal and pathological walking. The behaviour of the foot was examined in healthy subjects and different groups of patients. In order to know how surgical intervention affected the ability to walk, foot loading patterns and neuromusculoskeletal function was studied before and after corrective surgery. Special emphasis was laid on understanding the benefits of corrective surgery. The test procedure for the Paromed-System used in the present study showed that it could be used accurately to examine the bilateral symmetry of foot loading during walking without any disturbance to the subject. The highest peak plantar pressures were found under the heel, the first metatarsal and the big toe in both the normal and patient groups. The results suggested that foot loading asymmetry did not increase at faster walking speeds in healthy subjects. However, patients with limb length discrepancy and patients recovering from tibial fracture had excessive foot loading asymmetries, which tended to become greater at fast walking speeds. The peak plantar pressures usually increased under the foot in the healthy subjects when walking speed increased while decreasing under the lateral forefoot. In contrast to this medial shift, bilateral comparison showed that the plantar pressures under the operated foot after free-flap reconstruction of the tibial fractures had shifted more to the lateral side of the forefoot. This lateralisation was a compensatory mechanism to reduce the loading on the ankle joint. The results from the triple jump showed that the high lateral forefoot pressure and maximal vertical ground reaction force in the braking phase and maximal horizontal ground reaction force in the anterior-posterior direction in the push-off phase were closely correlated to the length of the triple jump. In patients the foot loading and muscle strength symmetry improved notably during the follow-up after the reconstruction surgery to correct the limb length discrepancy. Because symmetry after the different surgical interventions was not completely restored, long rehabilitation period is needed after corrective surgery.


The purpose of this study is to develop an optimized Artificial Neural Network model to determine the optimal start and stop time for heating system in office building. For this, programs for predicting room air temperature based on the finite difference method and learning of ANN model based on back-propagation learning were developed. Then, the optimized ANN model was presented through learning of ANN and its performance to determine the optimal start and stop time, also it's performance and energy saving effect were evaluated.


This paper analyses a postgraduate writing seminar designed to help doctoral students deal with some of the challenges experienced when trying to join an academic community. In addition to acquire the academic knowledge required to become a researcher (the current disciplinary discussions, the methodological tools to contribute to them, and the writing practices inherent to scientific genres), there are emotional and identity capacities that need to be fostered if graduate students are to enter in the collective conversations that disciplines entail. These are mostly neglected by graduate programs. Students who survive have developed them on their own and sometimes with great suffering, as many studies show. On the contrary, the question I address in this action research is how writing or ´text work´ can be explicitly linked to ´identity work´ (Kamler & Thomson, 2004). With this purpose, I examine a 30 hour writing seminar developed through 20 months with 3 cohorts of part-time Education doctoral students (N=18) in which I accompanied them through the process of writing, group and peer reviewing, and rewriting two scientific texts. During the first year of candidature, when they had not even defended their thesis proposal, they were asked to write a dissertation abstract as if their dissertation were finished. The purpose of this task was to encourage writing as an epistemic tool to plan their theses work as a whole and to think of the coherence among purposes, research questions, methods, intended results, and relevance of their prospective study. A year later, they had to write a paper with work in progress regarding their dissertation and find an appropriate conference to submit it and present it. Additionally, they wrote two non academic but ´subjective´ texts: an initial autobiographical account of themselves as writers and a final portfolio in which they documented and reflected on their work in the seminar. The analysis of these reflective writings, together with the course assessment students carried out, reveal some of the discourse and identity tensions doctoral graduates face when trying to take part in the disciplinary community they aspire to enter. Their reflective texts also show subtle ways in which the writing seminar gave them the chance to learn technical knowledge and participate in new scholarly genres, as well as develop social and emotional tools to dare to do it. Making their feelings of incompetence explicit and receiving support to overcome them through writing, feedback, and rewriting was experienced as an opportunity for a long-term reflection on who they were and who they wanted to become.
https://sites.google.com/site/giceolem2010/posgrado


This paper formulates a robust control for variable time-delay system models. An automatic tuning method for PID-type controller is proposed. The adopted method integrates robust control design using Quantitative Feedback Theory (QFT) with Particle Swan Optimization heuristic algorithms (PSO) to systematize the loop-shaping stage. The objective of the design method is to reach a good compromise among robust stability, robust tracking and disturbance rejection with minimal control effort. The resulting algorithm has attractive features, such as easy implementation, stable convergence characteristic and good computational efficiency. In particular, the results of the control design for active queue management (AQM) systems are presented. Simulations show improved congestion control and quality of service in TCP communication networks.


Calcitriol (3ß,5 Z ,7 E )-9,10-secocholesta-5,7,10(19)-trien-1α,3ß,25-triol) is a powerful oncostatic form of vitamin D3 that is of limited clinical utility due to hypercalcemic (toxic) effects. Since the removal of the side chain reduces or eliminates the calcemic activity of vitamin D3, secosteroidal compounds lacking or with a shortened side chain are good candidates for anti-cancer drugs. In addition, 5,7-steroidal dienes without a side chain can be generated in vivo under pathological conditions. A series of androsta- and pregna-5,7-dienes was efficiently synthesized from their respective 3-acetylated 5-en precursors by bromination-dehydrobromination and deacetylation reactions. Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation was used to generate corresponding 9,10-secosteroids with vitamin D-like structures. Additional products with tachysterol-like (T-like) structures or 5,7-dienes with inverted configuration at C-9 and C-10 (lumisterol, L-like) were also detected. Different doses of UVB resulted in formation of various products. At low doses, previtamin D-, T- or L-like compounds were formed as the main products, while higher doses induced further isomerization, with formation of potentially oxidized derivatives. In summary, we describe dynamic UVB induced conversion of androsta- and pregna-5,7-dienes into vitamin D-like compounds and their rearranged analogues; additionally novel T-like and L-like structures were also produced and characterized. Further biological evaluation of newly synthesized compounds should help to select the best candidate(s) for potential treatment of hyperproliferative diseases including cancer.


Menthol is a chemical compound derived from mint family; it has been applied as a medicinal remedy for many conditions for more than 3 thousands years ago, including skin infections and burns, localized pain, and in oral hygiene products and bad breath remedies like mouth wash and tooth paste. The aim of this study was to test the effects of menthol crystals aqueous extract on the viable count of Salivary Streptococci and Mutans Streptococci and on salivary flow rate and pH in comparison to chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2% and de-ionized water in vivo. Materials and method: Menthol crystals aqueous extracts was prepared and estimated in mg/ ml, in which 1 ml of alcohol was used to dissolve the specific amount of crystals, and then 99 ml of deionized water was added to form a solution of 100ml where as chlorhexidine gluconate used in this study as a control positive, de-ionized water was used as a control negative. Stimulated salivary samples were collected from 15 volunteers (20-24 years) for five time intervals (before rinsing, 1 minute, 15 minutes, 30 minutes and 1 hour after rinsing), they were divided into three groups each group rinse with one of the tested agents for one minute). Mitis Salivarius Agar (MSA) media was used for isolation of Streptococci and Mitis Salivarius Bacitracin Agar (MSBA) media was used for isolation of Mutans Streptococci. Colonies were counted using colony counter. Salivary pH was measured using digital pH meter and volume of saliva was measured also. Results: Counts of bacteria were recorded at different time points. Results showed a reduction in the viability counts of Salivary Streptococci and Mutans Streptococci one minute immediately after rinsing which continue to decrease after one hour. The reduction in the viable count of Streptococci was found to be statistically significant after 15 and 30 minutes of rinsing and highly significant after 1 hour, while for Mutans Streptococci, a significant reduction was found after 30 minutes of rinsing and highly significant after 1 hour. Salivary flow rates and pH were measured for the three test and control groups of volunteers before and after rinsing for five time intervals. There was an increase in the salivary flow rates and PH immediately after rinsing, and continue to increase after 30 minutes of rinsing, then decrease after 1 hour to approximate the base line. Conclusion: Menthol proved to posses antimicrobial activities against salivary Streptococci and Mutans Streptococci, and reduces their viable counts. Keyword: Mutans Streptococci, Menthol extracts, Chlorhexidine. (J Bagh Coll Dentistry 2011;23(119-123).


Objective To synthesize outputs and outcomes of community-based tuberculosis targeted testing and treatment (TTT) programs in foreign-born populations (FBP) in the United States (US). Methods We systematically searched five bibliographic databases and other key resources. Two reviewers independently applied eligibility criteria to screen citations and extracted data from included studies. We excluded studies that contained <50% FBP participants or that examined steps only after diagnosis of latent TB infection (LTBI). We stratified studies as majority FBP (50–90%) and predominantly FBP (>90%). We used random-effects meta-analytic models to calculate pooled proportions and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for community-based TTT cascade steps (e.g., recruited, tested and treated), and used them to create two hypothetical cascades for 100 individuals. Results Fifteen studies conducted in 10 US states met inclusion criteria. Studies were heterogeneous in recruitment strategies and mostly recruited participants born in Latin America. Of 100 hypothetical participants (predominantly FBP) reached by community-based TTT, 40.4 (95% CI 28.6 to 50.1) would have valid test results, 15.7 (95% CI 9.9 to 21.8) would test positive, and 3.6 (95% CI 1.4 to 6.0) would complete LTBI treatment. Likewise, of 100 hypothetical participants (majority FBP) reached, 77.9 (95% CI 54.0 to 92.1) would have valid test results, 26.5 (95% CI 18.0 to 33.5) would test positive, and 5.4 (95% CI 2.1 to 9.0) would complete LTBI treatment. Of those with valid test results, pooled proportions of LTBI test positive for predominantly FBP and majority FBP were 38.9% (95% CI 28.6 to 49.8) and 34.3% (95% CI 29.3 to 39.5), respectively. Conclusions We observed high attrition throughout the care cascade in FBP participating in LTBI community-based TTT studies. Few studies included cascade steps prior to LTBI diagnosis, limiting our review findings. Moreover, Asia-born populations in the US are substantially underrepresented in the FBP community-based TTT literature.


In recent years, numerous research efforts have been dedicated towards developing efficient implantable devices for brain stimulation. However, there are limitations and challenges with the current technologies. Firstly, the stimulation of neurons currently is possible through implantable electrodes but limited to a population of neurons. Secondly, a major hurdle lies in developing miniature devices that can last for a lifetime in the patient's brain. In parallel, Optogenetics has emerged proposing the stimulation of neurons using light by means of optical fibers inserted through the skull. Many challenges are thus introduced in terms of suitability to patient's lifestyle and biocompatibility. We have recently proposed the concept of wireless optogenetic nanonetworking devices (WiOptND), addressing these long-term deployment problems, and at the same time targeting single neuron stimulation [1]. The WiOptND is equipped with a miniature LED that is able to stimulate a genetically engineered neuron while harvesting energy from ultrasonic vibrations. This paper investigates how light propagates in the brain tissue, and based on the power required to emit sufficient intensity for stimulation, an energy harvesting circuitry is designed. A number of charging protocols are also proposed to maximize energy efficiency while ensuring minimum number of neural spike misfirings. These protocols include the Charge and Fire, the Predictive Sliding Detection Window, and its variant Markov-Chain based Time-Delay Patterns. Simulation results show the drop of stimulation ratio for 25% and more stable trend in its efficiency ratio are exhibited on Markov-Chain based Time-Delay Patterns compared to Change and Fire. The results show the feasibility of utilizing WiOptND for long-term implants, and a new direction towards precise stimulation of neurons in the cortical columns of the brain.


CD160 is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored cell surface glycoprotein expressed on cytotoxic natural killer (NK) cells and T-cell subsets. It plays a crucial role in the activation of NK-cell cytotoxicity and cytokine production. It also modulates the immune system and is involved in some pathologies, such as cancer. CD160 is abnormally expressed in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) but not expressed in normal B lymphocytes. Its expression in CLL enhances tumor cell proliferation and resistance to apoptosis. CD160 is also a potential prognostic marker for the detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) in CLL, which is important for the clinical management of CLL, the prevention of disease relapse, and the achievement of complete remission. In this review, we present an overview of CD160 and its involvement in the pathophysiology of CLL. We also discuss its use as a prognostic marker for the assessment of MRD in CLL.


Acta Physiologica, the official journal of the Federation of European Physiological Societies, is published by the Scandinavian Physiological Society and contains original contributions to physiology and related sciences such as pharmacology and biochemistry, provided the physiological relevance is evident either from the title, the content of the article or an explanatory statement by the author. The journal is read internationally and welcomes submission of original papers and reviews by authors from throughout the world. Examination of all submitted papers by at least two well-respected specialists guarantees a high scientific standard of the papers accepted for publication. Electronic submission: When preparing typescripts for submission, authors should follow the style of the journal. Submissions should be made online at http:// aps.manuscriptcentral.com. Authors will need their entire manuscript in a digital format (text, tables and figures) plus a user ID and password, which can be obtained by visiting the site. Any number of files and file types can be uploaded but authors are reminded that not all users will have access to specific software. It is recommended that Microsoft Word, RTF or PostScript files be uploaded, as these will automatically be converted to PDF. Figures, if uploaded separately should be GIF, JPEG, TIFF or EPS. Where possible, files should be combined and artwork embedded in the main manuscript file so users can easily view and download submissions. Submission by post: If you cannot submit online, the manuscript on disk should be sent to


Outbreaks of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus were recently reported in newborns at 3 major urban centers. Boys were disproportionately infected. A literature review and a statistical analysis confirmed that male newborns are significantly more likely to be infected with Staphylococcus aureus. Circumcision is a possible explanation for the recent outbreaks.


The incidence of mesenchymal bladder tumors is 1—5 %; of them, 0.43 % are bladder leiomyomas. The choice of treatment strategy primarily depends on the size and location of the tumor. Small endovesical leiomyomas can be removed by transurethral resection of the bladder, while in case of large (>5 cm) intramural or extravesical leiomyomas, laparoscopic resection is more effective. In this article, we report a case of large (>7 cm) bladder leiomyoma in a 28-year-old female patient. The patient has undergone laparoscopic resection of the bladder at P.A. Herzen Moscow Oncology Research Institute.


THE eye is affected in 20 of the 8o lepers now in the Kashmir State Leper Asylum. As would be expected, the proportion is larger in the tubercular cases than in the anaesthetic. In tubercular cases the ocular affection is essentially one of infiltration, and in ancesthetic cases of injury from exposure. The extent and position of the lesion vary greatly. Among the present inmates the ocular manifestations may be classified as follows: LIDS. j. The 8kin oJ the lids is liable to the deposit of nodules just as that of other regions; these seldom attain any large size, and very seldom ulcerate. At present there are only 3 cases of marked tuberculous nodules. 2. The margin of the lids is occasionally affected, and there is atrophy of the ciliary follicles. In 3 cases this is complete, in 5 partiil. 3. Paralytic ectropion is the characteristic eye lesion in anosthetic leprosy. It is rather a drop of the lower lid than an eversion. It falls away from the eye and leaves it exposed. Owing to displacement of the lower punctum there is lachrymation. The exposed conjunctiva becomes irritated, and often there is ulceration of the lower edge of the cornea. At present there are 9 such cases in various stages.


The recognition that destructive periodontal diseases may be caused by specific microorganisms has led to an increased interest and usage of antimicrobial agents in periodontal therapy. In this study, the effect of topical application of ofloxacin (OFLX), a synthetic antibiotic, was microbiologically evaluated. The new developed controlled release strips containing OFLX (PT-01), in which there were structurally immediate- and sustained-releasing portions, were applied to the periodontal pockets of 27 adult subjects with periodontitis. Three different sites with a deep probing pocket depth (greater than or equal to 5 mm) were randomly selected in each patient, and were divided into three groups, i.e., PT-01 applied site (T), placebo-applied site (P) and control site (C). Periodontal treatments consisted of oral hygiene instruction and supragingival scaling on day 0 and 7, and subgingival scaling and root planing on day 14. PT-01 was weekly applied on day 0 to 35, and the subgingival plaque samples from each site were collected on day 0, 14, 21 and 42. The dynamics of subgingival microflora was investigated by dark field microscopy for determination of the %s of spirochetes, motile rods and coccoid cells, and anaerobic and aerobic cultivations for the determinations of the total number of subgingival bacteria, black-pigmented Bacteroides (BPB), Fusobacterium species and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. The results showed that the significant reduction of %s of spirochetes and motile rods and significant increase of % coccoid cells were found in only PT-01 applied sites during first 14 days. In this period, the total number of cultivable bacteria, BPB and Fusobacterium species were also significantly reduced in T sites. While, after subgingival scaling and root planing were performed, significant changes in the proportions and numbers of the subgingival microflora were found in all sites. Especially, PT-01 applied site showed significant improvement in the %s of spirochetes and motile rods as well as the total number of the bacteria. Moreover, the further microbiological determinations of the each isolate revealed that no detectable amounts of A. actinomycetemcomitans could be found from any samples in this study. These results suggested that weekly application of PT-01 in the periodontal pocket could have significant effects on the qualitative and quantitative improvements in the subgingival microflora. It was also suggested that the application of PT-01 might have ameliorating effect as adjuncts of mechanical subgingival plaque control in the periodontal treatment.


In this letter, we analyze a voice over IP (VoIP) capacity in a cognitive radio system. We formulate the system as a two-dimensional discrete time Markov chain (DTMC). The VoIP traffic and wireless channel in the cognitive radio system are described as a Markov modulated Poisson process (MMPP) model and a Markov channel model, respectively. We demonstrate various numerical and simulation results, such as packet dropping probability and VoIP capacity.


BACKGROUND
Among agricultural populations, hearing loss caused by excessive noise exposure is common. However, examinations of associations between exposure to agricultural tasks and hearing loss are limited.

METHODS
Audiometry and lifetime exposure to 11 agricultural tasks were analyzed among 1,568 participants. Gender stratified multivariable linear regression was used to estimate associations between exposure duration and three hearing loss metrics.

RESULTS
Among men, significant associations were observed between hearing loss and hunting or target shooting, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or motorcycle riding, chain saw use, electric or pneumatic tool use, living on a farm, and all agricultural tasks combined. When all significant exposure metrics were included in a single model, associations remained for hunting or target shooting, electric or pneumatic tool use and living on a farm. Significant associations were sparse among women, and in all cases paradoxical.

CONCLUSIONS
Despite imprecise estimation of noise exposure, specific agricultural tasks were associated with hearing loss.


The paper presents an extension of a dynamic programming (DP) decoder for phrase-based SMT (Koehn, 2004; Och and Ney, 2004) that tightly integrates POS-based re-order rules (Crego and Marino, 2006) into a left-to-right beam-search algorithm, rather than handling them in a pre-processing or re-order graph generation step. The novel decoding algorithm can handle tens of thousands of rules efficiently. An improvement over a standard phrase-based decoder is shown on an Arabic- English translation task with respect to translation accuracy and speed for large re-order window sizes.