To correct a DNA mutation in the human genome for gene therapy, homology-directed repair (HDR) needs to be specific and have the lowest off-target effects to protect the human genome from deleterious mutations. Zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN) and CRISPR-CAS9 systems have been engineered and used extensively to recognize and modify specific DNA sequences. Although TALEN and CRISPR/CAS9 could induce high levels of HDR in human cells, their genotoxicity was significantly higher. Here, we report the creation of a monomeric endonuclease that can recognize at least 33 bp by fusing the DNA-recognizing domain of TALEN (TALE) to a re-engineered homing endonuclease I-SceI. After sequentially re-engineering I-SceI to recognize 18 bp of the human β-globin sequence, the re-engineered I-SceI induced HDR in human cells. When the re-engineered I-SceI was fused to TALE (TALE-ISVB2), the chimeric endonuclease induced the same HDR rate at the human β-globin gene locus as that induced by TALEN, but significantly reduced genotoxicity. We further demonstrated that TALE-ISVB2 specifically targeted at the β-globin sequence in human hematopoietic stem cells. Therefore, this monomeric endonuclease has the potential to be used in therapeutic gene targeting in human cells.


Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET) is an emerging technology that supports self-organizing mobile networking infrastructures. MANETs can be extended by connecting with some other wired or wireless networks like Internet. As users wants freedom to the use of mobile devices, in home location as well as in roaming. The Mobile IP protocol has been developed as a solution for allowing users to roam outside of their home networks, while still retaining network connectivity. A number of technical challenges are faced today due to the heterogeneous, dynamic nature of MANET. This paper analyzes the issues in the connectivity of Internet with the Mobile Adhoc Network.


Harvest records are often assumed to offer an indirect measure of population abundance in huntable species. However, this requires population density changes are reflected in comparable linear changes in harvest rates. We tested this assumption for common snipe Gallinago gallinago, common wood pigeon Columba palumbus, coot Fulica atra, grey partridge Perdix perdix, roe deer Capreolus capreolus and brown hare Lepus europaeus in Denmark. If we consider hunting a form of predator—prey interaction, the annual kill can be viewed as a predator functional response to prey population size. Convergence of the annual kill to a type I functional response with similar auto-correlative structures in the harvest and count data would support the hypothesis that fluctuations in harvest and population abundance occurred with similar periodicity. The annual kill of common snipe showed the best fit to a type I functional response to the point count indices, with similar auto-correlative structures in the two variables. Other species showed different functional responses, the result of hunter behaviour, such as voluntary hunting restraint on species of concern and saturation effects from rapidly expanding abundant species. Relationships between the annual kill and population abundance were complex and incorporation of hunting legislation changes improved optimal model fits between harvest statistics and count data. Consideration of the validity of the underlying assumptions is necessary before harvest records are used as an index for population size. It is essential that detectability/accessibility of a species does not change systematically over time. Such bias may derive from habitat shifts, difference in timing of counts and hunting harvest, changes in migration patterns and annual reproduction and mortality. We recommend the continued collation of hunting harvest statistics, supported by sociological studies, to provide insight into the mechanisms that affect the hunting effort, to understand relationships between harvest statistics and population abundance.


We introduce a Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo approach for occupancy estimation in a room with an immeasurable ventilation rate, with the objective of investigating the effects of ventilation estimation and uncertainty in CO2 data on the occupancy estimation. Measured CO2 concentrations are used as inputs for the Bayesian estimation and ventilation calculation. The ventilation rate is obtained quantitatively by the concentration decay and the sum-up methods. The ventilation rate is determined by the decay rates at night with no occupancy and by sum up the average concentration level during a day with known occupancy. The Bayesian calculation uses a mathematical model based on the dynamic CO2 mass-balance equation in space. The result shows that the accuracy of occupancy estimation depends upon the estimate of ventilation rate, as well as the uncertainty in CO2 measurements.


Skeletal muscle formation, growth and repair depend on myoblast fusion events. Therefore, in-depth understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms controlling these events that ultimately lead to skeletal muscle formation may be fundamental for developing new therapies for tissue repair. To this end, the greatest advances in furthering understanding myoblast fusion has been made in Drosophila. Recent studies have shown that transient F-actin structures, so-called actin plugs or foci, are known to form at the site of contacting myoblasts. Indeed, actin regulators of the WASP family that control the activation of the Arp2/3 complex and thereby branched F-actin formation have been demonstrated to be crucial for myoblast fusion. Myoblast-specific cell adhesion molecules seem to be involved in the recruitment of WASP family members to the site of myoblast fusion and form a Fusion-Restricted Myoge- nic-Adhesive Structure (FuRMAS). Currently, the exact role of the FuRMAS is not completely understood. However, recent studies indicate that WASP-dependent F-actin regulation is required for fusion pore formation as well as for the correct integration of fusing myoblasts into the growing muscle. In this review, I discuss latest cellular studies, and recent genetic and biochemical analyses on actin regulation during myoblast fusion.


Glass samples with composition 50PbO : 25TiO2 : (25-X) B2O3 : XSiO2 (with X = 0, 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, and 5 mol%) were prepared by conventional quenching technique. These glass samples were converted to glass ceramics by the two-stage heat treatment schedule. Formation of ferroelectric lead titanate phase in the glass ceramics was confirmed from the XRD. The density, CTE, and dielectric constant of the glass and glass-ceramic samples were measured. The glass-ceramic sample containing 2.5 mol% SiO2 exhibited the highest dielectric constant. The SEMs of glass-ceramic samples were studied. The P-E hysteresis loop studies also revealed the highest remnant polarization for this sample, which has a potential for being developed for practical applications.


Use your smartphone to scan this QR code and download this article ABSTRACT Introduction: Iron-based nanocatalysts are known as a new generation heterogeneous Fenton catalyst, replacing the traditional Fenton catalyst system which has many disadvantages in experimental processes and industrial applications. In this study, we focused on the preparation of iron nanoparticles and their use when embedded in traditional supports, as well as tested their catalytic activity by modified Fenton-type oxidation of methylene blue (MB) substrate. Method: Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-vis were used for physio-chemical characterization of the catalysts. Results: Iron nanoparticles were obtained in the reduction of iron salt by sodium borohydride (NaBH4), with particle size in the range of 4-5 nm. Fe-X (X represents C, Bentonite, Al2O3 , or ZnO) was synthesized in high yield and applied to the Fenton oxidation of MB; approximately 99% conversion was observed in the case of Fe-C. Conclusion: Supported iron nanoparticles are active catalysts for the oxidation of MB; however, there are limitations if pH is above 3.


Description Short-term development and long-term evolution of language share mechanisms As the world changes, humans encounter new things that need to be described using a finite set of words. A common strategy for labeling these novelties is to reuse existing words—i.e., word meaning extension. For example, "mouse" can refer to a computer control device. Children also creatively overextend word meanings as they learn their languages. The need to name novelties has been present during the evolution of language, often resulting in the use of one word to express two different meanings. For example, Russian labels (colexifies) both "tree" and "wood" with "derevo" (1); this is a common pattern worldwide (2). On page 431 of this issue, Brochhagen et al. (3) present evidence that the overextension process that gives rise to new terms in the short term is the same process that generates patterns between languages over the long term. Their findings have major implications for the study of language change over evolutionary history.


Estimation of time varying systems can be done by representing the whole system behaviour in terms of some fixed basis sequences. Available solutions use computationally expensive nonrecursive solutions. We derive an RLS solution for the wavelet based expansion of time varying systems. This method has been applied to speech signals and its performance is studied. A recursive lattice algorithm is derived for the above modeling. Also the performance of the method using both the Haar and Daubechies bases is studied.


Lately legal framework of Kazakhstan's relations with other countries has been formed, the confidence and respect of the world community for the country has increased. This research article examines the regional partnerships of the East Kazakhstan and North Kazakhstan regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan from 1991 to 2014 on the basis of archival data, documents in collections and analysis of scientific papers. The multifaceted partnerships of the regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan with the regions, districts, border areas of the Republic of Kazakhstan distinguished by their importance and effectiveness are studied. Experience in this area shows that such a partnership in foreign policy allows for the full realization of relations, especially in the economic and social spheres. Through such cooperation, it will be possible to deepen interstate relations on the basis of mutual benefit. It will be possible to identify the specifics and bilateral needs of the regions, and further establish contacts on a regular basis. Thus, the purpose of all agreements with foreign countries concluded since the beginning of the 90s of the XX century in economic, cultural, health, education, science and other areas was to involve all regions of Kazakhstan in this relationship. Such activities take into account the provision of cooperation and exchange of experience with countries that have developed through high technical development


OBJECTIVE
To analyze the mortality trend of ischemic heart disease (IHD) attributed to particulate matter (PM) 2.5 exposure among Chinese populations from 1990 to 2019. To evaluate the influences of cohort, period, and age on long-term of IHD mortality trends.

METHODS
Global burden of disease (GBD) data in 2019 regarding IHD death rate attributed to exposure to (PM) 2.5 in China from 1990 to 2019 were adopted. The age-period-cohort (APC) model based on the R language produced by the National Cancer Institute of the United States was used for statistical analysis to investigate the influences of different ages, periods, and cohorts on IHD death rate attributed to exposure to (PM) 2.5.

RESULTS
The age-standardized death rate of IHD attributed to exposure to ambient (PM) 2.5 in China revealed an uptrend from 1990 to 2019. This increased from 8.63/100,000 in 1990 to 21.31/100,000 in 2019. This was an increase of 1.47%. The age-standardized IHD death rate attributed to exposure to household (PM) 2.5 showed a decreasing trend. This decreased from 19.61/100,000 in 1990 to 8.72/100,000 in 2019. This was a decrease of 0.74%. The results of the APC model indicated that the annual net drift of IHD mortality attributed to exposure to (PM) 2.5 was -0.10%. The annual net drifts of exposure to household and ambient (PM) 2.5 were -4.54% and 3.44%, respectively. The IHD death rate attributed to ambient and household (PM) 2.5 exposure in the same birth cohort enhanced with age. With time, the rate ration (RR) of period effects of IHD mortality attributed to ambient (PM) 2.5 exposure for both male and female showed an upward trend. The RR of period effects of IHD death rate attributed to household (PM) 2.5 exposure suggested a downtrend. In the consecutive birth cohorts, the population in China with a later birth cohort presented a higher risk of IHD death attributed to exposure to ambient (PM) 2.5 and a lower risk of IHD death attributed to household (PM) 2.5 exposure.

CONCLUSIONS
In China for the burden of IHD attributed to exposure to (PM) 2.5, the primary environmental risk was ambient (PM) 2.5 exposure compared to exposure to household PM2.5. IHD exposure to environmental air pollution posed a greater risk to young people.


The performance of organic solar cells is substantially enhanced by introducing high-mobility conjugate polymers as additives for the first time. The most pronounced effect is observed in one type of device with the average power conversion efficiencies increased from 8.75% to 10.08% after the addition of a high-mobility polymer for only 0.5 weight percent in the active layers, which is mainly attributed to the increased hole mobility and carrier lifetime in the devices. Besides the hole mobility, the energy band structure of the additive is also found to be critical to the enhancement of the device performance. This work demonstrates a novel approach for improving the efficiencies of organic solar cells.


Martin Heidegger is a German contemporary philosopher. He is also called "The philosopher of Being". There is also another interesting aspect of Heidegger which is phenomenological hermeneutics. Even though, Heidegger never mentioned this method in his later works again. Hans Gadamer was a student of Heidegger but he goes beyond Heidegger by positing what we call philosophical hermeneutics. Both of them were interested in hermeneutics, they drew their inspiration from Edmund Husserl"s phenomenology as a method. The difference between Heidegger and Gadamer is that Gadamer says one cannot interpret reality without presupposition or background. Whereas, Heidegger believes one can interpret reality without background, since man is thrown into this world without his consent, it means every object is out there and no one needs any background to interpret them. Our method is textual analysis. We are reflecting on the original works written by Heidegger and Gadamer and also commentaries written on them by other authors to discover the similarities and differences. Keywords: Heidegger, Gadamer, Hermeneutic, Romantic Dilthey


Automatic foci with membrane potentials in the range characterized by depolarizationinduced automaticity exhibit entrance block. The present study demonstrates a role of variable entrance and exit block in arrhythmogenesis. We studied canine interventricular septa with the right bundle branch exposed, isolated false tendons and isolated feline papillary muscle using standard microelectrode techniques. Foci of automaticity were produced either by focal application of electric current or by exposure of the preparations to Tyrode's solution containing 1.5–2.0 mM KCI. Foci induced by mild depolarization exhibited entrance block with exit conduction and were subject to electrotonic modulation. With greater depolarization, varying degrees of exit block developed. Various rhythms, including Wenckebach periodicity, resulted. Delayed emergence of electrotonically accelerated activity led to closely coupled extrasystoles resembling reentrant activity. Exit conduction in some preparations was facilitated by enhanced normal pacemaker activity (membrane potentials −70 mVor greater) in tissue peripheral to the focus. Also, when there were two sites of automaticity separated by an area of depressed conduction, intermodulation between the two automatic regions generated complex arryhthmias. Shifts in maximum diastolic potential also changed conduction and led to changes in arrhythmic patterns. In some experiments, focal automaticity was terminated by single stimuli. We conclude that complex and variable behavior of automatic foci may result in activity with characteristics previously attributed to other arrhythmic mechanisms.


Using affinity chromatography on HPA-, PNA-, Con A, and WGA-agarose columns only a part (10-30%) of the high molecular weight mucous glycoproteins could be isolated from the Triton X-100 solubilized components of normal as well as carcinomatous gastric mucosa. The main part of the mucus was not bound by the lectins, which corresponds to our earlier lectin histochemical observations on paraffin-embedded tissue sections. The lectin-bound mucous glycoproteins had a relatively lower molecular weight, ranging from about 250-1,000 kilodaltons, as indicated by polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoresis and by gel filtration on Biogel A 1.5 m column. In gas chromatographic analysis the molar ratio of aminohexoses to galactose was found to be much higher (3:1) in the lectin-bound mucous substances than in the whole high molecular weight mucus (1:1). This finding indicates that lectins have a higher affinity to the hexosamine rich components of mucus, which may be special forms of mucous glycoprotein molecules or the incompletely glycosylated core and backbone regions of the oligosaccharide chains of mucus. Extremely high hexosamine values (10:1) were found in the PNA isolated mucus of gastric adenocarcinoma. Since it is known that PNA binds to the terminal disaccharide, beta-galactose-(1-3)-N-acetylgalactosamine, which is localized at the reducing end of the oligosaccharide chains of mucus, it is highly probable that the elongation of the oligosaccharide side chains is disturbed in gastric cancer cells.


The notion of 'pathology' presumes an experiential and socially embedded frame of reference which is at variance with some recent attempts to understand the procedures and subject matter of psychiatry. Psychiatric theories remain bound by individual and historical contingencies whose compelling urgency obfuscates the inter-relationship of phenomenon, social context, response, and explanatory model.


The non-local transport phenomenon induced by supersonic molecular beam injection (SMBI) was first observed in the HL-2A tokomak. In comparison with the phenomena induced by other methods in various tokamaks, it has its own feature: the effect induced by SMBI in HL-2A lasts much longer than that induced by pellet injection in other similar size tokomaks. Both the bolometer radiation and Hα emission decrease when the non-local effect appears. This suggests that an electron transport barrier has been formed at the position just outside the q = 1 surface when the non-local effect appears.


The Treeview control is the traditional way of visualizing hierarchical information in user interfaces, but in situations such as managing bookmarks in browsers, more general classifications may be more appropriate than hierarchies. We have developed a component called EulerView which is an extension of Treeview, with a similar look and feel, addressing migration, navigation and overspecificity issues amongst 2D or 3D visualisations of classifications. It has familiar characteristics, and an underlying model, based on Euler diagrams, enabling more general classifications. We found, via user testing, that users of EulerView appear to grasp a fairly accurate internal representation of Euler diagrams and that they could organise bookmarks well within in a given classification using EulerView.


This work reports on the reproductive life of the stingless bees (Meliponini). Old queens of Melipona compressipes fasciculata in Maranhao State, Brazil die and are successfully substituted by new ones in all months. Queens of Melipona scutellaris from Lencois (BA - northeastern Brazil) brought to Uberlândia (Central South eastern Brazil) died during all months, and there are no months where new queens are more able to begin egg laying. Forty males of M. scutellaris were marked in the thorax and released in groups of 10 at 100, 400, 800 and 1000 meters from the meliponary and their return to it was observed. All males released at 100 to 400 meters returned, 7 out of 10 and 2 out of 10 males returned respectively from 800 and 1000 meters. Males are constantly waiting for a virgin queen next to orphan colonies, the majority of the queens is inseminated in near the hive, therefore, gene dispersion depends more upon the males and of the occupation of a new cavity for nest.


Introduction: Despite high prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse in low-resource settings and its negative effect on the quality of life of women affected by the condition, women in resource-constrained settings often have limited knowledge about the condition which limits their ability to seek medical treatment.

Aim: To assess the knowledge and associated factors of pelvic organ prolapse among women in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: This was an interviewer-administered questionnaire-based cross-sectional study conducted among 302 women from 13th to 17th January, 2020 in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. The participants were randomly selected and Pelvic organ prolapse knowledge questionnaire and incontinence knowledge questionnaire (PIKQ) was used to collect the data. SPSS version 22 was used for data processing and analysis. Descriptive statistics were calculated for most variables. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the associated factors. A variable was considered significant at p-value<0.05.

Results: A total of 302 women participated in this study with a mean age of 56.5 ± 9.8 years. Of these participants, 286 (94.7%) had awareness of pelvic organ prolapse and 47 (19.7%) had good knowledge of the condition. Age between 46 and 50 years (AOR = 7.165, 95%CI = 1.749 - 29.357, P = 0.006), occupation such as farming (AOR = 16.812, 95%CI = 9.749 - 55.620, P < 0.0001) and civil service (AOR = 18.691, 95%CI = 6.825 - 86.094, P < 0.0001), having primary education (AOR = 8.098, 95%CI = 7.773 - 8.907, P < 0.0001) or secondary education (AOR = 12.34, 95%CI = 1.654 - 6.342, P = 0.01) were associated with good knowledge of pelvic organ prolapse.

Conclusion: The level of knowledge regarding pelvic organ prolapse was low among study participants which indicates a need for health education intervention. Being in middle age group, educational status and occupation were the factors associated with good knowledge of participants about pelvic organ prolapse.


A new moving finite difference (MFD) method has been developed for solving hyperbolic partial differential equations and is compared with the moving finite element (MFD) method of K. Miller and R. N. Miller. These methods involve the adaptive movement of nodes so as to reduce the number of nodes needed to solve a problem; they are applicable to the solution of non-stationary flow problems that contain moving regions of rapid change in the flow variables, surrounded by regions of relatively smooth variation. Both methods solve simultaneously for the flow variables and the node locations at each time-step, and they move the nodes so as to minimize an 'error' measure that contains a function of the time derivatives of the solution. This error measure is manipulated to obtain a matrix equation for node velocities. Both methods make use of penalty functions to prevent node crossing. The penalty functions result in extra terms in the matrix equation that promote node repulsion by becoming large when node separation becomes small. Extensive work applying the MFE and MFD methods to one-dimensional gasdynamic problems has been conducted to evaluate their performance. The test problems include Burgers' equation, ideal viscid planar flow within a shock-tube, propagation of shock and rarefaction waves through area changes in ducts, and viscous transition through a contact surface and a shock.


The zinc content of the liver and the thigh muscle of the rat were measured by means of atomic absorption spectrophotometry under different conditions: standard diet, carbohydrate diet, an experimental dystrophy model and its recovery period. The influence of a parental mineral substitution on the whole body and the organ weight was studied. Carbohydrate diet caused a lower rise of the whole body weight, a decrease of the zinc content of the liver and an increase of the zinc content of the thigh muscle. In dystrophy model, the liver weight decreased to one fifth of the controls. The zinc concentration of the liver increased markedly, the zinc content of the whole liver is equal to that of control animals. The thigh muscle showed an increase of the zinc content, too. The parenteral mineral application had no effect upon the whole body weight and the organ weights. Little influences on the zinc content of the skeletal muscle were seen. The zinc content of parenchymatous organs varies markedly, and it is influenced by diets and disease. In the dystrophy model, zinc is concentrated in atrophic organs in order to protect the organism against zinc deficiency.


TO THE EDITOR: Because of increasing limitations in available resources and increasing costs of providing health care, pharrnacoeconomics has become a critical discipline for the evaluation of health care alternatives. Pharmacoeconomics is the descriptive analysis of the cost of drug therapy to health care systems and society. I It applies cost-minimization, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit, and costutility analyses to drug treatments and related services to enable a systematic comparison of the benefits and costs of alternatives under consideration. These methods of analysis are well defined. However, perusal of the literature reveals that studies claiming to be one catagory of analysis are frequently of a different type. Imprecision in use of terms often leads to confusion in evaluation of the literature and improper conclusions. 2 A full economic evaluation compares both the costs and the outcomes of alternatives being considered. In these evaluations, costs are always measured in dollars, but consequences and the units in which they are measured differ according to the type of analysis. For example, in cost-minimization analysis, the consequences are the same for various alternatives and, therefore, are not measured. In cost-effectiveness studies, there is a common outcome to the alternative] being compared but the level or quality of outcome may vary. In this method of analysis, the outcomes are measured in units such as days of hospitalization eliminated, quality-adjusted life years" life years gained, or decrease in number of blood transfusions. In cost-benefit analysis, there may be more than one outcome per alternative, the outcome may differ with various alternatives being examined, the level of outcome may vary, and the consequences are measured in dollars. In cost-utility analysis, as with cost-benefit analysis, there may be more than one outcome per alternative, the outcome may differ with the various alternatives being examined, and the level of outcome may vary. However, in cost-utility analysis, these consequences are adjusted for differences in terms of quality of life so that units such as quality-adjusted life years are employed. In addition to performing the appropriate type of analysis, other factors must be incorporated into the evaluation to permit a meaningful conclusion. For example, future costs and benefits must be discounted at an appropriate rate,": and sensitivity] and incremental analyses should be performed.' With the introduction of numerous new medical treatments and services each year, decision makers must be able to critically evaluate the impact of these alternatives in terms of their benefits and costs. With the employment of the appropriate type of analysis, the use of discounting, sensitivity analysis, and incremental analysis, decision makers may more confidently, rationally, and effectively allocate resources.


The influence of TiO2 nano-particles (nano-TiO2) was studied relative to the mechanical and optical properties of CMYK printed paperboard after coating with a UV-curable varnish. Commercial duplex paperboard (glazed grayback paperboard, 230 g/m2) was printed with a CMYK offset printing process. Board samples were coated with a nano-TiO2 modified UV-curable varnish at four treatment levels (0, 0.2, 0.5, and 1%) using an industrial screen-coating machine. The samples were then dried using a UV lamp in an industrial UV drying machine. Sample discoloration was measured spectrophotometrically using CIELab parameters (L*, a*, b*, and ΔE) before and after coating. The whiteness, brightness, fold, and tear resistance of the ink films were also measured. The nano-treatment had a significant effect on the relative optical parameters, which resulted in increasing the lightness of the treated samples. Color change (ΔE) was recorded for all tested samples, and an unperceivable change was observed in case of the nano-treatment with 0.2% as the end value. The weakly perceivable changes were found in the cases of treatment with 0.5 and 1% nano-intensities. The nano-TiO2 treatment significantly improved the fold and tear resistance of the samples.


A particularly nice canonical subspace of H*(BO) is defined. The bordism class of a map f:X—*Y, where X and Y are compact, closed manifolds, can be determined by the characteristic numbers corresponding to elements of this subspace, and these numbers can be easily calculated. As an application, we study the "fixed-point manifold" of a parameter family of self-maps F: M x X —► X, thus refining to bordism the usual homological analysis of the diagonal which is the basis of the standard Lefschetz fixed point theorem.


The Hofmann-type rearrangement of aromatic and aliphatic imides using a hypervalent iodine(III) reagent generated in situ from PhI, m-CPBA, and TsOH·H(2)O proceeded in the presence of a base in alcohol to provide anthranilic acid derivatives and amino acid derivatives in high yields, respectively. This reaction proceeds through a tandem reaction via alcoholysis followed by a Hofmann rearrangement promoted by the formation of an imide-λ(3)-iodane intermediate.


A 71-year-old man presented with epigastralgia and tarry stool. Laboratory examination showed anemia (Hb 7.1 g/dl) due to hemorrhagic gastric ulcer and positive Coombs' test without features of hemolysis. Initial bone marrow smears disclosed normal granulocytes and megakaryocytes, but only erythroid hyperplasia with multinuclearity and megaloblastosis was identified. Cytogenetic studies revealed normal karyotype. Congenital dyserythropoietic anemia (CDA) type II was initially suspected. Serologically, however, acid hemolysis and anti-I * i tests were negative as were the results of another Coombs' test. The second bone marrow aspiration disclosed a marked decrease in multinucleated erythroblasts together with an increase in those that had internuclear chromatin bridges. Electron microscopy of bone marrow specimens demonstrated morphological features of CDA types I and II, thus yielding a final diagnosis of elderly dyserythropoietic anemia, which is similar to both CDA types. It was suggested that the reactive secretion of erythropoietin due to bleeding played a role in these pathologic changes.


Various reports have shown that plant oils can power diesel engines, but unmodified direct injection engines coke up when operated on these fuels for any length of time. Indirect injection engines are known to be more tolerant of fuel quality and a research programme to test the long-term durability of such an engine with sunflower oil as fuel was launched. The successful results of this test programme which led to the manufacturer extending the warranty on this engine to cover this type of fuel are presented.


Some traditional fermented dairy products like Egyptian Karish cheese and traditional fermented milk (Laban Zeer) are manufactured in farmhouses following traditional techniques using raw milk without heat treatment or addition of selected starter cultures, these products are generally designed as "artisanal". The representative Karish samples were analyzed for their content of total microbial, Enterobacteriaceae, yeast, molds, Staphylococci coagulase positive, Salmonella spp., Listeria spp., in addition to detection of Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium perfringens and Campylobacter spp. using classical methods. The physico-chemical properties of collected samples showed that the average of protein, fat, moisture and acidity were in accepted range with that reported in literatures and Egyptian standard. Some lactic acid bacteria (Lactococcus lactis supsp. lactis, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis and Enterococcus feacium) were isolated and identified from fresh karish cheese using classical methods followed by rep-PCR. Lactococcus garvieae was detected in fresh samples using TTGE but could not be detected using classical methods. The results of microbiological analysis showed the presence of high numbers of Enterobacteriaceae that ranged from log10 2.6 cfu/g to log10 3.5 cfu/g, Bacillus ssp. ranged from log10 4.2 cfu/g to log10 5.6 cfu/g, Staphylococci counts are ranged from log10 1.8 cfu/g to log10 2.7 cfu/g, faecal enterococci count ranged from log10 3.5 cfu/g to log10 5.8 cfu/g. Yeasts and molds count ranged from log10 2.7 cfu/g to log10 3.5 cfu/g. B. cereus, L. monocytogenes, C. perfringens, Shigella, Salmonella, Escherichia coli β-glucuronidase positive and Campylobacter spp. were not detected in all the examined samples. The count of undesirable microorganisms indicated the poor hygienic practice of traditional Karish cheese production; starting with using poor quality of raw milk and processing under uncontrolled environments. This would require using clean raw milk, controlled manufacturing steps and selection of the appropriate starter culture for the fermentation.

 Key words: Karish cheese, microbiological analysis, safety.


"Partners in Caring" is a unique community awareness campaign to promote healthier lifestyles throughout southern California. The media joint venture links CareAmerica and KABC Talkradio in Los Angeles. The synergy works on several different levels. The combination might even work in your locale.


It is generally recognized that the initiation of obesity-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is closely associated with hepatic inflammation. However, the paradoxical role of inflammation in the initiation and progression of HCC is highlighted by the fact that the inflammatory HCC is accompanied by significant immune effector cells infiltration compared to non-inflammatory HCC and HCC with enhanced immune response exhibits better survival. Importantly, the cancer progression has been primarily attributed to the immunosuppression, which can also be induced by obesity. Furthermore, the increased risk of viral infection and thus viral-HCC in obese individuals supports the view that obesity contributes to HCC via immunosuppression. Here, we have reviewed the various mechanisms responsible for obesity-induced tumor immune microenvironment and immunosuppression in obesity-related HCC. We highlight that the obesity-induced immunosuppression originates from lipid disorder as well as metabolic reprogramming and propose potential therapeutic strategy for HCC based on the current success of immunotherapy.


A statistical measure, the detection level, that conveys information about the risk of type II errors in a way that is easily understandable to the statistically unsophisticated decision maker is proposed. The detection level answers the question: "How big should an effect have been in order to be detected in this way?" Given a statistical test with the critical level (size) alpha*, the detection level of this test is the smallest effect that would, with at least probability 1-alpha*, lead to a significant outcome (P < alpha*) of the test. It is proposed that detection levels should be calculated as a standard procedure in toxicity reviews, and in particular in reports from toxicologists to decision makers.


Time synchronization in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is essential to coordinate activities distributed among different nodes. In recent years many protocols have been proposed to achieve high-accuracy synchronization. However, up to now only few researchers focused their attention on the issue of trading the number of periodic synchronization events for target accuracy. In fact, the synchronization requirements of low-cost WSNs often are not particularly strict and strongly depend on the intended application. In this paper, we propose an algorithm aimed at changing the number of synchronization events as a function of the probability of finding the various WSN nodes within given tolerance boundaries. Some experimental results to validate the proposed algorithm are reported. This algorithm is expected to pave the way to novel WSN synchronization protocols, which should provide better flexibility and power efficiency than existing ones.


Risk control based on risk (semi) quantification has much improved, being in many domains by now an auditable, certifiable and insurable process with high economic, ecological and societal relevance. At the same time, the insight has grown that such classical risk management focusing on five-phase risk and chance management is not sufficient to handle major disruptions, unexpected or even unexampled events. In this context, a concept based on catastrophe management and related (technical) capabilities, e.g. within the temporal and logical cycle phases preparation, prevention, protection, response, recovery, and learning, and related resilience concepts, proved to be a successful new and additional approach. However, now the question arises whether classical risk management (thesis) and resilience engineering (antithesis) can be combined within a synthesis, to leverage the rich insights of both approaches. The paper explores the options of combining a risk and resilience management cycle with a resilience cycle within a panarchy loop to achieve a holistic phased and iterative approach. Options are discussed and the best option is selected in terms of orthogonality of phases, merge and limitation of phases, well-defined core tasks of each phase and supporting methods. For the application domain critical infrastructure protection and the industry sector gas, it is shown how to support the phases of the joint risk and resilience management panarchy with the method quantitative gas grid simulation.


Lung cancer claimed about 153,000 lives in 1994 in the United States. Despite research overall lung cancer survival has still not improved during the last 20 years, with 5-year relative survival remaining about 13%. In addition several epidemiologic and molecular studies showed a difference in the incidence of lung cancer in the three major races. The aim of our study was to investigate the variations of race in lung cancer patients, in order to identify potential risk factors linked to the different racial status. In this light we compared a 10 years lung cancer data of black population from Howard University Hospital, Washington D.C., U.S.A. and a 20 years data of white population from the Vienna University Hospital, Austria. Our results did not show any significant difference in mean age or tumor localization in both groups, but highlighted a remarkable difference in the incidence of the lung cancer histological types also according to the sex. In this respect it could be more successful to consider carcinogenesis like a protracted process of gene function deregulation in response to cell injury from exposure to genotoxic substances with individual specificity.


We present the first rest-frame UV population study of 17 heavily reddened, high-luminosity [E(B − V)QSO ≳ 0.5; Lbol > 1046 erg s−1] broad-line quasars at 1.5 < z < 2.7. We combine the first year of deep, optical, ground-based observations from the Dark Energy Survey (DES) with the near-infrared VISTA Hemisphere Survey and UKIDSS Large Area Survey data, from which the reddened quasars were initially identified. We demonstrate that the significant dust reddening towards the quasar in our sample allows host galaxy emission to be detected at the rest-frame UV wavelengths probed by the DES photometry. By exploiting this reddening effect, we disentangle the quasar emission from that of the host galaxy via spectral energy distribution fitting. We find evidence for a relatively unobscured, star-forming host galaxy in at least 10 quasars, with a further three quasars exhibiting emission consistent with either star formation or scattered light. From the rest-frame UV emission, we derive instantaneous, dust-corrected star formation rates (SFRs) in the range 25 < SFRUV < 365 M⊙ yr−1, with an average SFRUV = 130 ± 95 M⊙ yr−1. We find a broad correlation between SFRUV and the bolometric quasar luminosity. Overall, our results show evidence for coeval star formation and black hole accretion occurring in luminous, reddened quasars at the peak epoch of galaxy formation.


Manipulating the synergy between magnetic and optical characteristics in a predictable manner by an external stimulus is a highly desirable option to develop smart materials for advanced applications such as information processing and storage in multifunctional devices. Herein we report dinuclear complexes Ln2L2(depma2)Cl2 (1-Ln, Ln = Dy, Gd; H2L = N1,N3-bis(salicylideneimino)diethylenetriamine, depma2 = photodimerized 9-diethylphosphonomethylanthracene) where the lanthanide ions possess pseudo-D5h geometries with five equatorial positions occupied by L2− and the axial positions by depma2 and the Cl− anion. depma2 acts as a bridge between the equivalent LnIII ions and can be opened and closed upon heating and light irradiation. 1-Ln experience consecutive structural transformations, first separation of the depma2 at ca. 170 °C and second elimination of chloroethane at ca. 250 °C, accompanied by a synergetic switch of the photoluminescence and magnetic dynamics for 1-Dy.


Introduction Marital status may be a predisposing factor related to preventive health screenings, which may in part explain the "healthy marriage" effect. This study investigates differences in the likelihood of being screened for cholesterol by marital status for men and women. Methods Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys from 2003 through 2005 were used to calculate the likelihood of self-reported cholesterol screening in the past year by marital status and sex. Several rounds of interviews during a 2-year period resulted in a sample of 36,594 US adults. Results Most married, widowed, and divorced/separated people reported cholesterol screening in the past year. The highest percentages of people being screened for cholesterol were widowed men (75%) and women (81%). By contrast, 26% of single men and 38% of single women reported cholesterol screening. In multivariate models, being unmarried was associated with lower odds of cholesterol screening among men and women. The lowest likelihood of screening was associated with widowed status for both men (odds ratio, 0.56) and women (odds ratio, 0.53). Conclusion Marital status is a predisposing factor for cholesterol screening. Public health interventions aimed at improving preventive screening should focus on social networks, especially family members.


Utility Computing has facilitated the creation of new markets that has made it possible to realize the longheld dream of delivering IT as a Utility. Even though utility computing is in its nascent stage today, the proponents of utility computing envisage that it will become a commodity business in the upcoming time and utility service providers will meet all the IT requests of the companies. This paper takes a crosssectional view at the emergence of utility computing along with different requirements needed to realize utility model. It also surveys the current trends in utility computing highlighting diverse architecture models aligned towards delivering IT as a utility. Different resource management systems for proficient allocation of resources have been listed together with various resource scheduling and pricing strategies used by them. Further, a review of generic key perspectives closely related to the concept of delivering IT as a Utility has been taken citing the contenders for the future enhancements in this technology in the form of Grid and Cloud Computing.


Objectives: This study aims to contribute to the prevention of dental diseases and health care in the elderly by investigating the relationship among the experiences of chronic diseases, dental health status, and the behaviors in the Korean elderly people. Methods: A total of 2,856 elderly people aged 65 or older were selected as the final analysis subjects using data from the 6th National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2013-2014). Chronic diseases were defined as 'cardiocerebrovascular diseases', 'diabetes', 'chronic respiratory diseases', and 'cancer' diagnosed by the doctors. For the statistical analysis, SPSS 21.0 for Windows was used. Descriptive analysis and a Chi-square test were conducted to investigate the relationship among the experiences of chronic diseases, general characteristics, dental health status, and the behaviors in the Korean elderly. Finally, logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the relationship among the experiences of chronic diseases, dental health status, and the behaviors. Results: The prevalence of Cardiocerebrovascular diseases was significantly higher in the 3-4 group of community periodontal index with the score of 1.36 (95% CI 1.03-1.00) than in the 0-2 group. The prevalence of Cardiocerebrovascular diseases was significantly higher in the group without dental examination during the past one year with the score of 1.29 (95% CI 1.00-1.66). The prevalence of diabetes was significantly higher in the uncomfortable speaking state group with the score 1.46 (95% CI 1.12-1.91). The prevalence of cancer was significantly higher in the partial denture needs group with the score 1.67 (95% CI 0.98-2.83). Conclusions: Regular dental examinations and dental health care for the elderly with chronic diseases showed that periodontal health and residual teeth could be maintained and managed. Therefore, continuous customized dental health services should be implemented for the elderly with chronic diseases.


Real time imaging and measurement of the drug distribution in the brain interstitial space (ISS) are able to determine the effeicency of local brain drug delivery to treatment gliomas. In the present study, we used a tracer-based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method to quantitatively analyze the effects of glioma growth on ISF drainage. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6). C6 glioma cells were implanted into either the caudate nucleus or thalamus of rats and then were examined 10 or 20 days after implantation. The two control groups were treated with vehicle. A tracer was injected into the caudate nucleus of control rats and rats with gliomas growing in the thalamus for 10 or 20 days. The tracer was similarly injected into the thalamus of control rats and rats implanted with gliomas in the caudate nucleus. The diffusion and clearance parameters of the tracer were calculated using tracer-based MRI techniques. We found that glioma implanted in the caudate nucleus significantly decreased the speed of the ISF flow in thalamus. With the growth of the glioma in thalamus, the drainage route of the brain ISF flow was altered in the caudate nucleus, but the speed of the flow was not significantly changed. These findings indicate that tracer-based MRI is a promising technique for optimizing the interstitial administration of therapeutics aimed at treating brain gliomas.


indicate that the action of N.P.H. continues throughout the full 24-hour period. It is apparent that the timing of N.P.H. action is far superior to that of globin and P.Z.I. There is considerable similarity between the actions of N.P.H. and " lente." In a proportion of cases N.P.H. needs the boosting effect of soluble insulin just as many cases need a mixture of semilente and lente. The lente group may possess an advantage in the availability of the ultralente preparation to assist in ihe control of cases which need intensive insulin action during the last four hours of the 24-hour period. However, with N.P.H., few cases seem to escape from control at this phase of the day. The essential difference appears to be the absence from the lente preparation of any protein or peptide material other than insulin itself.-I am, etc.,


Background: To our knowledge, there is no international publication on association of body mass index (BMI) and breast cancer in the Iraqi Kurdish women. The aims of this study are to identify the correlation of height, weight, and BMI with breast cancer, as well as, the relationship of BMI with pre- and postmenopausal women with breast cancer among Iraqi Kurds. Materials and methods: This retrospective case-control study was performed in Sulaimanyah governorate (North of Iraq). Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric measures and menopausal status of (454) patients with breast cancer who were seeking medical attention in Hewa Hematology and Oncology Hospital with collection of same information on (430) age-matched controls. Results: There were 454 cases of breast cancer, the mean value of height was 161 ± 6.2 cm compared to controls 159.3 ± 5.1 cm ( p < .001), mean weight 68.9 ± 11.8 kg compared to controls 62.1 ± 9.1 kg ( p < .001), mean BMI 26.6 ± 4.5 kg/m 2 compared to controls 24.5 ± 3.8 kg/m 2 ( p < .001). There was a significant statistical difference between the height of patients and controls in both pre-and postmenopausal Kurdish women. The odds ratios for breast cancer development in premenopausal women with BMI (23-24.9, 25-29.9, and 30 kg/m 2 ) were (1.4, 1.8, 2.1) ( p < .001), respectively. The odds ratios for breast cancer development in postmenopausal women for same BMI categories were (1.7, 3.2, 4.0) ( p < .001), respectively. Conclusions: Among Iraqi Kurdish women, height, weight, and BMI are associated with increased risk of breast cancer. There is a positive association between BMI and breast cancer risk for both pre- and postmenopausal women, but the association is stronger among postmenopausal women.


Fiber-based interferometers provide the means to sense very small displacements over long baselines, and have the advantage of being nearly completely passive in their operation, making them particularly well suited for geophysical applications. This work presents the development and results from four new systems: one in atmospheric acoustics and three in Earth strain. Turbulent pressure fluctuations (wind noise) are a significant limiting factor in low-frequency atmospheric acoustic measurements. The Optical Fiber Infrasound Sensor (OFIS) provides an alternative to traditional infrasonic wind noise reduction (WNR) techniques by providing an instantaneous average over a large spatial extent. This study shows that linear OFISs ranging in length from 30 to 270 m provide a WNR of up to 30 dB in winds up to 5 m/s, in good agreement with a new analytical model. Arrays of optical fiber strainmeters were deployed to measure sediment compaction at two sites in Bangladesh. One array at Jamalganj (in the north) consists of 20, 40, 60, and 100 m long strainmeters, while the second near Khulna (in the south) also includes lengths of 80 and 300 m. Two years of weekly measurements show a clear seasonal signal and subsidence at both sites that is in reasonable agreement with collocated GPS receivers. A new 250-meter, interferometric vertical borehole strainmeter has been developed based completely on passive optical components. Details of the prototyping, design, and deployment at the Pinon Flat Observatory (PFO) are presented. Power spectra show an intertidal noise level of -130 dB (re. 1 [epslion] /Hz), consistent within 1-3 dB between redundant components. Examination of its response to Earth tides and earthquakes relative to the areal strain recorded by an orthogonal pair of collocated, 730 m horizontal laser strainmeters yield a Poisson's ratio of 0.26. Two prototype horizontal strainmeters were also developed to explore the use of similar interferometric optical fiber technology for near-surface, long baseline strain measurement. Both instruments are shown to faithfully record earthquakes and yield very good estimates of the M2 tidal constituent, despite unexplained 2-8% amplitude discrepancies between the 90 and 180 m long instruments relative to the collocated laser strainmeter and each other


A common criticism of deep learning relates to the difficulty in understanding the underlying relationships that the neural networks are learning, thus behaving like a black-box. In this article we explore various architectural choices of relevance for music signals classification tasks in order to start understanding what the chosen networks are learning. We first discuss how convolutional filters with different shapes can fit specific musical concepts and based on that we propose several musically motivated architectures. These architectures are then assessed by measuring the accuracy of the deep learning model in the prediction of various music classes using a known dataset of audio recordings of ballroom music. The classes in this dataset have a strong correlation with tempo, what allows assessing if the proposed architectures are learning frequency and/or time dependencies. Additionally, a black-box model is proposed as a baseline for comparison. With these experiments we have been able to understand what some deep learning based algorithms can learn from a particular set of data.


The aim of this paper is to show the influence of the atmospheric boundary layer profile on the distribution of velocity in a building having two large openings. The knowledge of the flow form inside a building is useful to define a thermal environment favourable with thermal comfort and good air quality. In computational fluid dynamics, several profiles of atmospheric boundary layer can be used like logarithmic profiles or power profiles. This paper shows the impact of these profiles on the indoor airflow. Non-ventilated or ventilated parts of room are found. They show respectively ineffective ventilation and effective ventilation. A qualitative and global approach allows to observe the flows in a cubic building and to show the influence of each profile according to the external ground roughness and the incidence angle of the wind. Some zones, where occupants move, are named volumes of life. Ventilation is there observed using traditional tools in order to analyze quantitatively the ventilation of these zones.


The ratios of amino acids to the total amino acids deduced from the complete genome and those of nucleotides to the total nucleotides in the genome are useful indexes to characterize various large genomes among different species from bacteria to Homo sapiens . These indexes are not only independent of species but also of genome size. Using these indexes, the following results were obtained: (1) primitive life forms appeared to have similar amino acid compositions to present day organisms; (2) cellular amino acid compositions that are similar among various species and between whole cells and complete genomes; (3) genome structure that is homogeneously constructed from putative small units encoding proteins of similar amino acid compositions, followed by synchronous mutations over the genome; (4) all organisms can be classified into two groups, "GC-rich" and "AT-rich," based on their nucleotide contents, or "terrestrial" and "aquatic vertebrates" based on natural selection by cluster analyses using amino acid contents as the traits; and (5) evolution based on nucleotide content alterations can be expressed by definitive equations. Thus, the ratios of amino acids or nucleotides to their total contents are useful indexes for characterizing genomes, regardless of species differences and genome sizes. The two normalized nucleotide contents are universally expressed regression line.


Abstract This paper reports on a fragment of a broader research on values education in Polish and Latvian schools. This paper seeks to evaluate data from the European Social Survey (ESS) and elaborate on the frames of references for identification of the aims for future research. The paper highlights the findings of an action research carried out in two Polish schools. The values of European countries are analysed in the context of educational research in Europe and other regions of the world. The frames of references constructed during the study and data from European Social Survey were the grounds for creating a questionnaire for an action research to find out the tendencies that derive from the experience of students. The survey was preceded by a special training session for the teaching staff about evaluation and its significance for increasing the quality of school performance.


An analysis of the conditions to produce linear complete plate modulation of triode radio-frequency amplifiers shows that the grid-excitation voltage and bias potential of triode amplifiers have to be modulated together with the plate-supply potential. Besides giving linear modulation characteristics, the redected impedance of the radio-frequency amplifier to the modulator is a constant resistance in the present scheme and excessive grid dissipation at the trough of modulation is eliminated. Calculations using the point-to-point method on different triodes and experimental measurements made on the triode 801 agree very well with the theory.


Background Recently frailty has drawn significant interest as an important predictor of several clinically relevant outcomes. There is no widely accepted instrument for the assessment of frailty and most of the current ones evaluate only physical features. The Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI) is a valid and reliable instrument which enables multidimensional assessment of frailty. We aimed to adapt and evaluate the Turkish version of the TFI. Methods We translated and culturally adapted the English version of the TFI into Turkish using standard guidelines. We enrolled consecutive patients who were 70 years old or older and were admitted to our outpatient geriatrics clinic. We used Cronbach's alpha values to evaluate the internal consistency and also assessed inter-observer and test–retest variability using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results The Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficients of the instrument ranged from 0.65 to 0.72 and item-total correlation ranged between −0.05 and 0.57. There was a good agreement between two assessments (ICC=0.99) and between two observers (ICC=0.99). Conclusion We have shown the reliability of the Turkish version of the TFI as a tool to evaluate frailty in a multidimensional manner among the Turkish outpatient population.


A novel carbon allotrope consisting of parallel zigzag and armchair chains alternatively each other (10 atoms/cell, named pza-C10) was discovered. The calculated band gap of pza-C10 is 0.31 (0.71) eV with PBE (HSE06), and thus the new member of carbon family is a semiconductor. The pza-C10 sheet not only is thermodynamically more stable than the other known semiconducting carbon sheets, but also it can perfectly graft with graphene. The unprecedented properties of pza-C10 provide a new approach of modulating intrinsic band gap through forming graphene-based monolayer carbon superlattices (GSLs). The band gaps of GSLs with zigzag type of interface oscillate between semiconducting and semimetallic (mostly at the Dirac point) states as the number of zigzag chains increases, showing quantum size effect. The 2D superlattice achieved in GSLs opens a new strategy to design the crystal structures and modulate the electronic properties of 2D materials, nanoribbons, and nanotubes.


This paper proposes a conceptual framework on the role of formal and informal institutional factors at the sub-national level (e.g., city) in shaping the climate conducive for the growth and success of micro, small, and medium enterprises. Extant literature reveals that institutional analyses tend to focus on either formal or informal institutions, in narrow and fragmented ways. Likewise, previous studies focused their analysis on national or country-wide institutional frameworks, ignoring the institutional heterogeneity of regions and cities within a given country. This study attempts to develop an integrated institutional approach at the city-level and stretch the conceptual boundaries of formal and informal institutions as they shape the local entrepreneurial climate―the set of tangible and intangible institutional factors that are shaping the performance of entrepreneurial firms in a geographically and politically defined area such as a city.


Background India contributes ~60% to the global leprosy burden. The country implements 14-day community-based leprosy case detection campaigns (LCDC) periodically in all high endemic states. Paramedical staff screen the population and medical officers of primary health centres (PHCs) diagnose and treat leprosy cases. Several new cases were detected during the two LCDCs held in September-2016 and February-2018. Following these LCDCs, a validation exercise was conducted in 8 Primary health centres (PHCs) of 4 districts in Bihar State by an independent expert group, to assess the correctness of case diagnosis. Just before the February 2018 LCDC campaign, we conducted an "appreciative inquiry" (AI) involving the health care staff of these 8 PHCs using the 4-D framework (Discovery-Dream-Design-Destiny). Objectives To assess whether the incorrect case diagnosis (false positive diagnosis) reduced as a result of AI in the 8 PHCs between the two LCDC conducted in September-2016 and February-2018. Methodology/principal findings A three-phase quantitative-qualitative-quantitative mixed methods research (embedded design) with the two validation exercises conducted following September-2016 and February-2018 LCDCs as quantitative phases and AI as qualitative phase. In September-2016 LCDC, 303 new leprosy cases were detected, of which 196 cases were validated and 58 (29.6%) were false positive diagnosis. In February-2018 LCDC, 118 new leprosy cases were detected of which 96 cases were validated and 22 cases (23.4%) were false positive diagnosis. After adjusting for the age, gender, type of cases and individual PHCs fixed effects, the proportion of false positive diagnosis reduced by -9% [95% confidence intervals (95%CI): -20.2% to 1.7%, p = 0.068] Conclusion False positive diagnosis is a major issue during LCDCs. Though the decline in false positive diagnosis is not statistically significant, the findings are encouraging and indicates that appreciative inquiry can be used to address this deficiency in programme implementation.


Background: The essential amino acid, tryptophan, is predominantly metabolised through the kynurenine pathway (KP) to generate kynurenine, an aryl-hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pro-ligand that exerts its effects in a ligand-dependent manner. Interaction between kynurenine and the AhR is an effector mechanism of immunosuppression. We previously found that the KP is involved in multiple sclerosis (MS) disease progression. We postulated that AhR activation by kynurenine might be neuroprotective by encouraging differentiation of Tregs. In this study, we assess both the prophylactic and therapeutic efficiency of kynurenine on disease severity and progression in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an MS model. Methods: Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein induced EAE mice (n = 6 per group) were treated with 200 mg/kg L-kynurenine once daily for 10 days beginning on either day 1 of EAE induction (prophylactic) or once they demonstrated motor weakness (therapeutic). Clinical disease severity measured by disease score, time on rotarod, and body weight. Results: The prophylactic kynurenine treatment significantly (P < .0001) prevented the development of a more severe disease course with mice demonstrating diminished relapse rate and improved clinical and behavioural outcomes. However, therapeutic kynurenine did not significantly (P = .4463) decrease the clinical signs until 36 days following induction of disease; after 36 days, it also significantly (P = .0479) reduced disease relapse. Mean body weight measurements only correlated with time on rotarod (r = −.6410; P = .0007) but not clinical scores (r = .1925; P = .3674). Conclusions: Kynurenine ameliorates EAE disease progression prophylactically and reduces relapses therapeutically. Further investigations are needed to elucidate the molecular mechanism explaining the therapeutic role of kynurenine for MS.


OBJECTIVE
To compare the retention and the caries preventive effect of a glass-ionomer developed for fissure sealing (Fuji III) and a chemically polymerized resin-based fissure sealant (Delton).

DESIGN
A split mouth randomized design using contralateral teeth.

SETTING
WHO Regional Demonstration, Training and Research Center for Oral Health, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic.

SAMPLE AND METHODS
179 children, 7 years old at the start of the study, were recruited from schools close to the Center. Only children with at least one pair of permanent first molars that were caries free or only had incipient lesions were included in the study. Follow-up examinations for sealant retention were done after 6 months, 1 year, 2 years and 3 years. The number of children available for reexamination was 129 (after 6 months); 121 (after 1 year); 115 (after 2 years) and 116 (after 3 years). Four dental hygienists were trained in the sealant procedures and did approximately one fourth of the sealants each.

RESULTS
After 3 years the glass-ionomer sealant was completely lost in almost 90% of the teeth compared to less than 10% of the resin sealed teeth. After 3 years the relative risk of a tooth sealed with glass-ionomer over that of a tooth sealed with resin was 3.38 (95% CL: 1.98; 5.79). This finding was consistent over type of tooth.

CONCLUSIONS
The glass-ionomer sealant tested in the present study had poorer retention and less caries protective effect than the resin-based sealant used.


The brain-computer interface (BCI) enables individuals with severe physical impairments to communicate with the world. BCIs offer computational neuroscience opportunities and challenges in converting real-time brain activities to computer commands and are typically framed as a classification problem. This article focuses on the P300 BCI that uses the event-related potential (ERP) BCI design, where the primary challenge is classifying target/non-target stimuli. We develop a novel Gaussian latent group model with sparse time-varying effects (GLASS) for making Bayesian inferences on the P300 BCI. GLASS adopts a multinomial regression framework that directly addresses the dataset imbalance in BCI applications. The prior specifications facilitate i) feature selection and noise reduction using soft-thresholding, ii) smoothing of the time-varying effects using global shrinkage, and iii) clustering of latent groups to alleviate high spatial correlations of EEG data. We develop an efficient gradient-based variational inference (GBVI) algorithm for posterior computation and provide a user-friendly Python module available at https://github.com/BangyaoZhao/GLASS. The application of GLASS identifies important EEG channels (PO8, Oz, PO7, Pz, C3) that align with existing literature. GLASS further reveals a group effect from channels in the parieto-occipital region (PO8, Oz, PO7), which is validated in cross-participant analysis.


Serving as a part of the engineering education, curriculum reform plays an important role in higher education reforms. This paper presents the reform practice on curriculum of "Intel Atom Platform Embedded Application and Practice" and "Software Test Techniques". It deeply discussed specific measures in the Embedded Software Engineering Curriculum by referencing a variety of teaching reform methods. On summarizing the feedback information from undergraduates of grade 2008 and 2009, the outcome is well meet the expectation, therefore, the approach can be considered as a new attempt for the teaching reform on practical curriculum of software engineering.


Upper Ordovician-Lower Silurian marine mudstones in the Appalachian basin, which have not been subjected to extensive heating or oxidation, contain abundant organic-walled phytoplankton (prasinophycean algal phycomata and acritarchs). In most areas graptolites and conodonts have not been recovered from these rocks, making the phytoplankton particularly important for biostratigraphic correlation. Recent advances have improved the precision with which these microfossils can be used. By tabulating relative abundance data carefully, an abrupt change in the composition of phytoplankton associations can be recognized at the Ordovician-Silurian boundary can be located with greater precision and confidence than is possible using the stratigraphic ranges of individual species. Many supposedly long-ranging species have relatively short stratigraphic ranges, and thus greater utility, as a result of detailed taxonomic studies. Therefore, type and comparative material are important considerations. Also, vesicle wall architecture and dehiscent structures are valuable taxonomic characters. Scanning electron microscopy examination has improved our understanding of small forms (less than 20 ..mu..m in diameter), and has thus increased the number of taxa available for use in biostratigraphy. Further study of samples from vertically extensive stratigraphic sections of established age should help workers refine the biostratigraphy of these microfossils.


Students with disabilities have historically underperformed on achievement tests in comparison to their non-disabled peers (Eckes & Swando, 2009; Hurt, 2012). This qualitative study explored parents' perceptions of school factors that contribute to and hinder the academic success of students with disabilities. The researcher collected data by interviewing a purposeful sample of parents of students with disabilities and gathered and reviewed their child's academic information. This qualitative research study utilized a phenomenological design approach that allowed the researcher to gain insights into parents' perceptions of students' lived experiences. Participants included a sample of parents of fifth-grade students with disabilities attending an intermediate school in southeastern Virginia. The researcher collected data for this study in the spring of 2017. Interviews were administered in one session, allowing the researcher to ascertain from responses to the 22 interview questions which school factors parents perceive as contributing to and hindering academic progress. The results of this study indicated that the success of students with disabilities was impacted by staff members' understanding of multimodality learning, needs of students with disabilities, and the level of support needed by students. The findings also indicated large class size and the physical and cosmetic characteristics of a classroom had an impact on achievement. Parents recommended mentoring programs, restructuring the classroom environment, improving parent-teacher communication, and meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities as areas of improvement. An Examination of Parents' Perceptions of School Factors that Contribute to and Hinder the Academic Success of Students with Disabilities Attending an Intermediate School in Southeastern Virginia Jatauné N. Jones GENERAL AUDIENCE ABSTRACT Students with disabilities have historically performed lower on tests than students without disabilities (Eckes & Swando, 2009; Hurt, 2012). This study explored parents' perceptions of school factors that contribute to and hinder the success of students with disabilities. The researcher collected data by interviewing parents of students with disabilities and gathered and reviewed their child's academic information. Participants included a sample of parents of fifth-grade students with disabilities attending an grades 3-5 school in southeastern Virginia. The researcher collected data for this study in the spring of 2017. Interviews were administered in one session, allowing the researcher to ascertain from responses to the 22 interview questions which school factors parents perceive as contributing to and hindering academic progress. The results of this study indicated that the success of students with disabilities was impacted by staff members' understanding of multimodality learning, needs of students with disabilities, and the level of support needed by students. The findings also indicated large class size and the physical and cosmetic characteristics of a classroom had an impact on achievement. Parents recommended mentoring programs, restructuring the classroom environment, improving parent-teacher communication, and meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities as areas of improvement.


This paper presents a reconfigurable approach to decision and control systems for complex dynamic processes. The proposed supervisory control system is a reconfigurable hybrid architecture structured into three functional levels of hierarchy, namely, execution, supervision and coordination. While the bottom execution level is constituted by either reconfigurable continuously varying or discrete event systems, the top two levels are necessarily governed by reconfigurable sets of discrete event decision and control systems. Based on the process status, the set of active control and supervisory algorithm is chosen. The reconfigurable hybrid system is briefly described along with a discussion on its implementation at the Experimental Breeder Reactor II of Argonne National Laboratory. A process control application of this hybrid system is presented and evaluated in an in-plant experiment.<<ETX>>


A Japanese adult male voxel (volume pixel) phantom (hereinafter referred to as the JM phantom) was constructed on the basis of CT images of a healthy Japanese adult male volunteer. Body characteristics of the JM phantom were compared with those of a voxelised MIRD5 type phantom and a Japanese adult male voxel phantom which was previously developed. The voxel size of the JM phantom is 0.98 x 0.98 x 1 mm(3). The shapes of the organs of the JM phantom, even for small or complicated organs, such as thyroid and stomach, are more realistically reproduced as compared with the previous Japanese voxel phantom (voxel size: 0.98 x 0.98 x 10 mm(3)). Photon self-absorbed fractions (self-AFs) for brain, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, thyroid and urinary bladder wall of JM were evaluated and were compared with those of the other phantoms. In consequence, it was suggested that the mass, shape and thickness of organs are important factors for the determination of self-AFs.


Many real-world applications, such as those in medical domains, recommendation systems, etc, can be formulated as large state space reinforcement learning problems with only a small budget of the number of policy changes, i.e., low switching cost. This paper focuses on the linear Markov Decision Process (MDP) recently studied in [Yang et al 2019, Jin et al 2020] where the linear function approximation is used for generalization on the large state space. We present the first algorithm for linear MDP with a low switching cost. Our algorithm achieves an $\widetilde{O}\left(\sqrt{d^3H^4K}\right)$ regret bound with a near-optimal $O\left(d H\log K\right)$ global switching cost where $d$ is the feature dimension, $H$ is the planning horizon and $K$ is the number of episodes the agent plays. Our regret bound matches the best existing polynomial algorithm by [Jin et al 2020] and our switching cost is exponentially smaller than theirs. When specialized to tabular MDP, our switching cost bound improves those in [Bai et al 2019, Zhang et al 20020]. We complement our positive result with an $\Omega\left(dH/\log d\right)$ global switching cost lower bound for any no-regret algorithm.


The performance of a device-to-device (D2D) underlay communication system is limited by the co-channel interference between cellular users (CUs) and D2D devices. To address this challenge, an intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) aided D2D underlay system is studied in this paper. A two-timescale optimization scheme is proposed to reduce the required channel training and feedback overhead, where transmit beamforming at the base station (BS) and power control at the D2D transmitter are adapted to instantaneous effective channel state information (CSI); and the IRS phase shifts are adapted to slow-varying channel mean. Based on the two-timescale optimization scheme, we aim to maximize the D2D ergodic rate subject to a given outage probability constrained signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) target for the CU. The two-timescale problem is decoupled into two sub-problems, and the two sub-problems are solved iteratively with closed-form expressions. Numerical results verify that the two-timescale based optimization performs better than several baselines, and also demonstrate a favorable trade-off between system performance and CSI overhead.


In this paper, we present a framework which provides an analytical (i.e. infinitely differentiable) transformation between spatial coordinates and orbital elements for the solution of the gravitational two-body problem. The formalism omits all singular variables which otherwise would yield discontinuities. This method is based on two simple real functions for which the derivative rules are only required to be known, all other applications - e.g. calculating the orbital velocities, obtaining the partial derivatives of radial velocity curves with respect to the orbital elements - are thereafter straightforward. As it is shown, the presented formalism can be applied to find optimal instants for radial velocity measurements in transiting explanatory systems to constrain the orbital eccentricity as well as to detect secular variations in the eccentricity or in the longitude of periastron.


We have applied the techniques of theoretical and computational plasma physics to two important problems in mirror fusion. First, we have found that electron collisions with neutral gas play an important role in determining the leak width of a cusp confined plasma. Second, we have found that mirror plasmas are susceptible to parametric instabilities during electron cyclotron resonance heating.


Purpose
An essential corporate decision-making tool, the Boston Consulting Group's growth-share matrix, is due for an upgrade. The purpose of this paper is to upgrade this growth matrix for use by corporate managers in the current platform age. Designed in the conglomerate age of the 1960s and 1970s to help corporate managers make disciplined and systematic portfolio investment decisions, the matrix is ill-adapted to the platform age in which we now live. The most valuable companies in the world are now platform companies, and many companies are transitioning to a more platform-based corporate portfolio. In this paper, the author explains how corporate managers can build and execute a sustainable platform portfolio.

Design/methodology/approach
The author started with a thorough study of the contextual assumptions and theoretical background of the original Boston Consulting Group growth-share matrix (which the author has been teaching for the past decade). He contrasted these with the assumptions and theoretical background developed in the platform strategy literature. To test and refine the framework, the author presented and discussed its applicability at companies such as GSK and with local consultants. He then used five consecutive cohorts of master students [280 students (70 groups)] to test this framework on a total of 20 companies (both "born platform" and "product to platform" companies).

Findings
The platform ecosystem age requires a corporate decision-making matrix that discriminates between businesses on the basis of platform market growth and platform commercialization capability, rather than product market growth and market share. As in the original matrix, these businesses correspond to three different investment horizons (Figure 1): the continuous renewal of blockbuster business, the integration of emerging killer businesses and the experimentation with joint innovation businesses. This paper helps corporate managers build and execute a sustainable platform portfolio by means of a sequence of six decision-making steps and a clear organizational template for successful execution.

Originality/value
The portfolio matrix, decision-making sequence and organizational execution advice presented in this paper are fit for both "born platform" companies such as Google (Alphabet) and "product to platform" hybrids such as Lego. The paper illustrates this with practical examples for both types of companies.


The structure of international trade is determined not only by market forces, but also by the political objectives of states. Weak states participate least in the open international trading system. The strong states that do participate channel trade largely within regional trading blocks. The major states in Europe and East Asia have an incentive to diminish their dependence on the hegemonic power, that is, the United States, which has reacted with its own regionalism (NAFTA). Moreover, regionalism is interpreted as a strategy that reduces states' exposure to major shocks in the global economy. Additionally, it permits them to support weak sectors of their economies at a regional level without entirely undermining the long-term growth benefits of international trade, since a substantial degree of autarky is more feasible and efficient at a regional rather than at the national level.


Summary Mixed model methodology has been the main statistical tool for unbiased genetic animal evaluation and selection of domestic animals, such as bovines, for over thirty years. Since the use of linear mixed models to obtain the best linear unbiased prediction of the breeding value of the individuals in a population was proposed, there have been scientific advances at the statistical and computational level that have led to implement more complex models describing different biological situations and data structures. This work briefly reviews the history of genetic evaluation in cattle emphasizing on the mixed model methodology in which these evaluations are based. The following topics are discussed in this paper: The unibreed animal model, the derivation of the mixed model equations, some extensions of the unibreed animal model (additive direct and maternal effects, random environmental effects, multiple traits model), the mutibreed animal model, models for the genetic evaluation of longitudinal data and, finally, a brief description of genomic evaluation.


Whilst within each chapter problems covering a wide variety of topics are offered, one feels that there have been a number of important omissions. There are 92 problems devoted to d.c. circuits (including elementary transient problems). It would surely have been better to have reduced this number and to have substituted problems on such topics as four-terminal networks, harder transients, introductory work on network topology and matrix methods.


Object: To describe the clinical and angiographic results of endovascular occlusion of basilar bifurcation aneurysms with electrolytically detachable coils, and to identify factors which should be considered in deciding upon surgical or endovascular treatment. Methods: We report our experience with 40 patients in whom occlusion of basilar bifurcation aneurysms with electrolytically detachable coils was attempted. All patients underwent superselective angiography and attempted embolization with Guglielmi detachable coils (GDCs). Angiographic and clinical results were prospectively recorded. Twenty-eight aneurysms presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), 2 were symptomatic and 10 were incidental. Results: Coils were not placed in 10 patients (25%) because of unfavorable anatomy. Complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved at the time of the initial procedure in 13 (32.5%), small neck remnants were present in 13 (32.5%), and in 4 (10.0%) there was obvious residual contrast filling of the aneurysm body. Of 23 patients successfully coiled after SAH, 20 were Grade 1 to 3 and 3 were grade 4 or 5 at the time of treatment. Eighteen (78%) made a good recovery. Procedural mortality was 2.5% and permanent morbidity was 7.5%. There were no permanent complications in patients with unruptured aneurysms. Complete aneurysm occlusion was possible in 10 (56%) of 18 aneurysms with small necks and 3 (14%) of 22 with large necks. Follow-up angiography in 25 of 28 surviving patients (mean, 12 months) demonstrated stability of all completely occluded aneurysms. Incompletely coiled aneurysms had variable results on follow-up angiograms: 15.4% improved, 69.2% worsened, and 15.4% were stable. No aneurysm bled after treatment during clinical follow-up averaging 22 months. Conclusion: Endovascular treatment of basilar bifurcation aneurysms appears to prevent early aneurysm rebleeding with acceptable rates of morbidity and mortality, but long-term follow-up is required.


The scope of this study is to examine the characteristics of football clubs that choose a high quality auditor and whether this audit selection process was different before and after the implementation of Union of European Football Associations (UEFA's) financial fair play regulation. The study employs a sample of 109 European football clubs for a 7-year period, 2008-2014 (3 years before and 4 years after regulatory intervention), to investigate the impact of this regulatory intervention upon the decision of clubs to hire a big-4 audit firm. The study demonstrates that after FFP implementation, profitability and cash flows became highly significant factors urging clubs to select a big-4 audit firm in order to signal to the market and the regulators that they are able to achieve the regulatory requirements. UEFA should take into consideration that, the imposition of regulatory monitoring tied to accounting data may lead to adverse behavior on behalf of the clubs, thus reducing the effectiveness of the new regulation.


In order to promote the development of agricultural large-scale operation in China, this paper constructs a calculation model for agricultural moderate large-scale operation to estimate moderate operation scale of China's major crops and different agricultural varieties in different regions based on the analysis of present situation of agricultural moderate large-scale operation. The results show that the national average moderate operation area of grain is 7.3 ha; the average moderate operation area of vegetable, cotton and apple is 0.61, 21.42 and 0.37 ha, respectively; the average moderate scale of hog and sheep is 388 and 234.8, respectively. In addition, for different varieties of agricultural products, we estimate their moderate scale in different provinces. The study provides a scientific basis for speeding up agricultural land transfer and realizing moderate large-scale operation, and sets forth corresponding recommendations on this basis.


Background: Wound pain is a serious problem for people with chronic wounds. The aim of this real-life study was to compare the effect of a foam dressing that releases ibuprofen (Biatain Ibu®) with local best practice on the treatment of painful exuding wounds. Methods: A total of 185 patients with painful exuding wounds were randomized to either ibuprofen foam treatment (n = 98) or local best practice (n = 87). The primary endpoint was pain relief over 7 days of treatment, assessed daily using a 5-point verbal rating scale (no relief, slight relief, moderate relief, lots of relief, and complete relief). Secondary endpoints included a total reduction in pain intensity for the whole study period (using an 11-point Numeric Box Scale: 0 = no pain to 10 = worst possible pain) and incidence of adverse events (AEs). Results: More patients in the ibuprofen foam treatment group reported wound pain relief and lower wound pain intensity values after 7 days (p < 0.0001 for both variables). Within the four most common ulcer aetiolgies, patients reported significantly more effective pain relief with ibuprofen foam treatment (venous: p = 0.009, mixed arterial venous: p < 0.0001, arterial: p = 0.0009, and vasculitis: p = 0.009). In all groups, patients from the ibuprofen foam group reported lower pain intensities. The results were significant for patients with venous (p < 0.002) and arterial (p < 0.0001) leg ulcers. Two AEs were reported. Conclusions: The ibuprofen foam represents an effective and safe alternative to local best practice in the management of painful exuding wounds.


Family-work conflict and enrichment are closely related processes. This study used the Work-Family Resources Model to investigate the direct effects of a demand (perceived work demands) and a contextual job resource (social support at work) on an outcome in the family (flourishing in the family), as well as the mediating role of a personal resource (positive psychological capital) and the moderating role of a macro resource (organizational culture associated with the employees' values of satisfaction and wellbeing) in these relationships. The sample consisted of 1052 Brazilian workers of both sexes (72.5 % women) from 50 organizations. The results found in Multilevel Structural Equation Modeling provided empirical support for the model by confirming the relationships that were tested. These findings entail important theoretical and practical implications for the family-work relationship, in demonstrating how the different processes imbricated in the work-family interface can occur, and how they can contribute to the quality of life in the family context.


The voltage-dependent motor protein Prestin (SLC26A5) is responsible for the electromotive behavior of outer hair cells (OHCs) and underlies the cochlear amplifier 1. Knock out or impairment of Prestin causes severe hearing loss 2-5. Despite Prestin's key physiological role in hearing, the mechanism by which mammalian Prestin senses voltage and transduces it into cellular-scale movements (electromotility) is poorly understood. Here, we determined the structure of dolphin Prestin in six distinct states using single particle cryo-electron microscopy. Our structural and functional data suggest that Prestin adopts a unique and complex set of states, tunable by the identity of bound anions (Cl- or SO4=). Salicylate, a drug that can cause reversible hearing loss, competes for the anion-binding site of Prestin, inhibits its function by immobilizing locking in a novel conformation. This suggests that the anion together with its coordinating fixed charges act as a dynamic voltage sensor. Analysis of all anion-dependent conformations reveals how structural rearrangements in the voltage sensor are coupled to conformational transitions at the protein-membrane interface, suggesting a novel mechanism of area expansion. Visualization of Prestin's electromotility cycle distinguishes Prestin from closely related SLC26 anion transporters, highlighting the basis for evolutionary specialization of the mammalian cochlear amplifier at high resolution.


Abstract We performed analytical validation of the new version of the Liaison N-Tact PTH (parathormone) assay according to NCCLS guidelines and compared this new generation of reagent with the Roche Elecsys PTH assay. We showed that this new version is a sensitive and precise method with good recovery. Significant carryover was observed, but with limited clinical implications. We demonstrated that the new version of the Liaison PTH is in reasonably good agreement with the Roche Elecsys PTH assay, and as we observed no differences in a hemodialyzed population, moving from one method to the other should not affect the daily follow-up of patients. However, one should be cautious with the highest values (>500 pg/mL). We established reference intervals of 12–54 pg/mL for the Liaison and 14–52 pg/mL for the Elecsys assay. Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:105–7.


We have recorded the blood supply to a high or subsplenic sigmoid loop from branches of the left colic and first sigmoid arteries. An accessory middle colic present in this case crossed the region immediately superior to the apex of the sigmoid loop. In this instance it arose from the dorsal pancreatic which also gave origin to inferior pancreaticoduodenal branches. Since the high sigmoid may be retroperitoneal, as in the case described, it would not be readily apparent; it would require lateral views to separate it from the descending colon radiographically.


In order to assess the effects of Na 872 infusion on maternal endocrinology during late pregnancy, we measured serum estradiol, estriol, progesterone, human placental lactogen, follicle simulating hormone, prolactin, cyclic adenosine monophosphate, cortisol and insulin before, during and after Na 872 infusion (bromhexine 2 mg/min for one hour) in ten mothers. As compared to six control mothers, no changes could be observed. This suggests that the claimed maturing effect of Na 872 on the fetal lungs is not mediated by the hormonal changes measurable in maternal blood.


Larval and adult anophelines were sampled around Ziway, Central Ethiopia. Throughout the study period, significantly higher densities of Anopheles pharoensis and An. arabiensis were found in the village with irrigation than in the village without. Canal leakage pools, irrigated fields and irrigation canals were the major sources of Anopheles larvae. Most adult anophelines were found to feed on humans, especially before 22hrs, and up to 1% were infected with malaria parasites. This study demonstrated that due to poor maintenance, irrigation schemes create conducive breeding grounds for malaria vector mosquitoes and hence increase the risk of malaria transmission.


The authors propose a generation of high-speed heterostructure devices compatible with a modified MODFET. These devices include a modified MODFET with a buried p-channel, and variable threshold voltage MODFET, a lateral n-p-n bipolar transistor, and a three-terminal planar photodetector called a modulation-doped-field-effect photodetector, (MODFED). These devices can be integrated together and with an optical waveguide. The MODFED has high speed, high collection efficiency, and it may operate in either p-i-n mode with low noise or the avalanche mode with high grain. The gate terminal allows modulation of the photodetector output.<<ETX>>


China's split-share reform of 2005 (the Reform) converts the previously restricted shares held by founding shareholders to shares tradable on the open market. Against this backdrop, we study how underwriter-affiliated analysts and firms' large shareholders interact in the event of the latter's sales of restricted shares. We document that recommendations made by affiliated analysts are significantly more optimistic when firms' large shareholders plan to sell their restricted shares. This optimism, however, is associated with negative post-sale stock returns, suggesting that large shareholders profit from share sales but at the cost of public investors. Furthermore, large shareholders sell more restricted shares through the affiliated brokerages with analysts issuing more optimistic recommendations and firms under their control are more likely to appoint such brokerages as lead underwriters when they refinance in the future. For the affiliated analysts, they conduct more site visits to the firms after the share sales, thereby improving their earnings forecast accuracy. Our analysis shows how conflicts of interest by financial intermediaries arise following the Reform and leads to large shareholders' extraction of rents from public investors. These findings have regulatory implications.


Primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the central nervous system (CNS DLBCL) is a rare, aggressive subtype of DLBCL, the biology of which is poorly understood. Recent studies have suggested a prognostic role of MYC protein expression in systemic DLBCL, but little is known about the frequency and significance of MYC protein expression in CNS DLBCL. Hence, we investigated MYC protein expression profiles of CNS DLBCL and assessed the relationship between MYC expression and a variety of histopathologic, immunophenotypic, genetic, and clinical features. Fifty-nine CNS DLBCL diagnosed at our institution over the past 13 years were evaluated. The majority of cases (80%) showed centroblastic morphology, and 12 (20%) displayed a perivascular pattern of infiltration. According to the Hans criteria, 41 (69%) cases had a non-germinal center B-cell and 18 (31%) had a germinal center B-cell cell-of-origin (COO) phenotype. Mean MYC protein expression was 50% (median: 50%, range: 10-80%). Forty-three cases (73%) showed MYC overexpression (≥40%), and 35 (60%) showed MYC/BCL2 coexpression. MYC overexpression was seen in the single case harboring MYC translocation and in the cases showing increased copies of MYC (27%); however, no significant difference in mean MYC expression was seen between groups harboring or lacking MYC aberrations. In our series, age was associated with a significantly increased risk of death, and the perivascular pattern of infiltration was associated with a significantly increased risk of disease progression. Neither MYC expression (with or without BCL2 coexpression) nor other variables, including COO subtype were predictive of clinical outcome. Our findings indicate that the proportion of CNS DLBCL overexpressing MYC is higher compared to systemic DLBCL, and MYC overexpression appears to be independent of genetic MYC abnormalities. Thus, MYC expression and other immunophenotypic markers used for prognostication of systemic DLBCL might not apply to CNS DLBCL due to differences in disease biology.