This paper seeks to make clear how the concept of the cycle of money works in an actual case scenario like this of the economic system of Bulgaria. The index of the cycle of money suggests how an economic system ought to counteract a monetary crisis and examines how well-structured a country's economy is. The estimations of the index of the cycle of money of Bulgaria are compared with the global average index of the cycle of money. The estimations reveal that Bulgaria is close to the average global value. Bulgaria's results show that it is a well-structured economy and can face an economic crisis. The applied methodology stands on the analysis of the theory, mathematical, statistical, and econometrical results. The current work is important as it represents the strength of Bulgaria's economy to a potential crisis. The results could be achieved by the application of the theory of the cycle of money to a country's economy. Prior real case scenario conclusions are from Latvia.


Fault recovery is a challenging task that is crucial in achieving stringent reliability and safety goals. In this thesis, the problem of fault recovery is studied in discrete-event systems (DES), assuming permanent failures. A diagnosis system is assumed to be available to detect and isolate faults with a bounded delay. Thus, the combination of the plant and diagnosis system can be thought of having three modes: normal, transient, and recovery. Initially the plant is in the normal mode. Once a failure occurs, the system enters the transient mode. After the failure is diagnosed by the diagnosis system, the system enters the recovery mode. This framework does not depend on the diagnosis technique used, as long as the diagnosis delay is bounded. As a result, the diagnosis and control problems are almost decoupled. In general, for each mode there is a set of specifications that have to be met. We propose a modular switching supervisory scheme. The proposed framework contains one normal-transient supervisor and multiple recovery supervisors each corresponding to a particular failure mode. Once a fault is detected and isolated by the diagnoser, the normal-transient supervisor is removed from the feedback loop and one of the recovery supervisors will take sole control of the system. The issue of non-blocking is studied and it is shown that essentially if the system under supervision is non-blocking in the normal mode, then it will remain non-blocking during the recovery procedure. Supervisor admissibility is also studied. This approach is developed for untimed DES and then extended to timed DES. In the process, previous results on supervisor design for untimed DES with partial observation are extended to timed DES. Various examples from manufacturing and process control are provided to illustrate the approach.


Alcoholic extracts of fruit of an endangered medicinal plant Balanites aegyptiaca and its in vitro raised calli were analyzed for antimicrobial potential against various Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria including those harbouring bla genes by agar well diffusion method. The alcoholic extract of parent plant as well as its callus showed good antibacterial activity against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the extracts were determined by broth microdilution method. MIC against Gram positive bacteria ranged from 3.05 to 24.0 µg/ml, while MIC against Gram negative bacteria ranged from 1.53 to 49.0 µg/ml and MIC against resistant bacteria harbouring bla genes ranged from 12.0 to 49.0 µg/ml. The present study shows that extracts of B. aegyptiacacontain good antibacterial activity which can be used in the treatment of various infectious diseases. As its calli also gave good results, in vitro cultivation of the explants may be used to obtain novel antimicrobial compounds especially at places where it does not grow naturally. This is the first report of antibacterial activity of B. aegyptiaca against Gram negative bacteria harbouring bla genes.

 Key words: Balanites aegyptiaca, in vitro raised callus, antimicrobial activity.


Abstract:
 Bakalin, V., Vilnet, A., Klimova, K. & Nguyen, V. S. 2019. Calypogeia vietnamica sp. nov. (Calypogeiaceae, Hepaticae) from North Vietnam and diversification in Calypogeia taxa with blue oil bodies. – Herzogia 32: 219 –229. Calypogeia vietnamica is described from the northern fringes of mountainous Indochina. The species belongs to the peculiar group of Calypogeia with blue oil bodies that is taxonomically diverse in meta-Himalaya. The described taxon suggested as restrictedly distributed and may be the result of speciation occurred after Indian-Asian collision and movement of northern Indochina to southeast. The species occurs in moist rocky outcrops in the highest elevation of Indochina – Phan Xi Pang Mt. in the quite unique formation of 'mossy' Rhododendron forest resembling mossy forests occurring in humid tropics although different from the latter florogenetically. The collecting locality is characterized by high amount of received precipitation and common fog shrouds even in the dry season of Southeast Asian monsoon – a feature rarely observed in Indochina. The main characters of the taxon include exceptionally large and long decurrent, bilobed with prominently acuminate underleaves lobes and blue oil bodies. Illustrations and descriptions of the new taxon are provided, possible relationships are discussed.


The present brief report describes four cases with mycobacterial infection and negative T-SPOT TM .TB tests. This test proved to be a useful tool to help rule out the diagnosis of active Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and could therefore prevent unnecessary or inappropriate therapy.


Tc-99m MDP bone scintigraphy is useful in clinically suspected rhabdomyolysis as a diagnostic test and as a test to localize and quantify muscular involvement. A 14-year-old boy had myalgia and painful swelling of both thighs after strenuous disciplinary exercise in middle school. He underwent three-phase bone scintigraphy (TPBS) with Tc-99m MDP to identify the origin of his chief symptoms. In the acute stage of rhabdomyolysis, TPBS showed increased perfusion and blood pooling and increased symmetric skeletal MDP uptake in both thighs. Interestingly, the skeletal MDP uptake was more prominent in the abductor muscles than in the adductor muscles. In the recovery stage, the TPBS revealed marked improvement of skeletal MDP uptake, more than improvement of perfusion and blood pooling in both thighs.


Many score methods have been created to measure paranasal sinus abnormalities seen under CT scan. Currently, the Lund-Mackay staging system is widely accepted. However, its results may be affected by the development in children. Aim To assess the precision and accuracy of a new tomography score, called "opacification-development ratio". It translates the percentage of sinus area that is opaque. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was prospectively conducted in patients ranging from 0-18 years of age who underwent CT scan assessment of rhinosinusitis. Two independent radiologists examined each scan twice, using both the Lund system and the ratio herein proposed. Results The opacification-development ratio reached substantial intra and inter-examiner agreement, similar to the Lund system (Kappa > 0.60). Considering the Lund system as the gold standard, the most accurate cut-off point was approximately 15 (sensitivity and specificity approach 90%). There was a strong linear correlation between the two methods (r > 90). Conclusions opacification-development ratio is precise and correlates with the Lund system. A cut-off point set at 15 could be used to call a test positive.


The multiple etiology of non-gonorrhoic urethritis has been extensively investigated in the last few years. It has thus become possible to diagnose the separate forms and consequently treat them with a greater degree of accuracy and specificity. For exact diagnosis multiple and time consuming examinations are often necessary. Sometimes this can only be done in highly specialized laboratories. Among the agents triggering such an infection Chlamydia (30.9% of the cases of non-gonorrhoic urethritis), as well as mycoplasma, ureaplasma, anaerobic bacteria and herpes simplex viruses have gained particular significance. Whereas these infections very rarely lead to complications by ascension in men they can result in unpleasant and severe disease in women (salpingitis, infertility, newborn infection).


INTRODUCTION:
Post infarction cardiac failure is one among the common complication of acute myocardial infarction. It is clinically observed when the contractile dysfunction of the heart, resulting from Acute myocardial infarction exceeds
more than 25 to 40% of left ventricular diameter, barring the limitation observed as compensation mechanism by means of increased adrenergic activity and increased Left ventricular End-diastolic volume; when these compensatory mechanisms are overwhelmed, the increased LVEDV will result
in increased myocardial wall tension and augment the myocardial oxygen demand, predisposing further augmentation of increased left ventricular end diastolic pressure and pulmonary venous congestion. For individuals free of
Heart failure at age to 40 years, the remaining life time risk for developing heart failure is 21% for men and 20.3% for women.
If mechanical complications are associated in Acute myocardial infarction such as Papillary muscle dysfunction, Mitral regurgitation, Ventricular septal rupture, further increase in left ventricular volume will result in further increase in wall tension and oxygen demand and pulmonary venous congestion and consequent left heart failure. Percentage to changes in norepinephrine and BNP over 12 months are independently associated with
corresponding changes in morbidity and mortality.
The symptoms of post - myocardial infarction cardaic failure are varied.
It is recognized in the usual way by the advent of dysponea, fine basal rales, orthopnea, gallop rhythm, distended neck veins, hepatic engorgement, positive abdomino - jugular reflux and in more advanced cases peripheral edema. In
severe cases they may present as expectoration of frothy sputum and central cyanosis. Rarely it is diagnosed with the help of X-ray chest with slight enlargement of cardiac stilhoutte and alveolar infiltrate of pulmonary edema, in
the absence of clinical features.
In general, male gender, the presence of coronary artery disease as the etiology of heart failure, the presence of an audible S3 or elevated JVP, low pulse and systolic arterial pressures, a high NYHA classes and reduced exercise
capacity, have been shown to be associated with increased mortality.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
It is a prospective study of 100 cases of post - myocardial infarction - cardiac failure analyzing various factors like
1. Incidence:
a. Age,
b. Sex.
2. Influences:
a. No. of infarction,
b. Associated systemic illness,
c. Dietary Habits,
d. Occupational Stress,
e. Body mass index,
f. Substance abuse like smoking, alochol and drugs
on clinical presentations, with reference to history,
symptomatology, electrocardiogram and 2-Dimentional
Echocardiogram and X-ray chest in selective cases.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
This study was conducted at Madras Medical College, Chennai - 3, during the period of May 2004 to January 2006. Hundred cases of post myocardial infarction cardiac failure were included in this study. The patients were selected from those who were admitted in the medical wards and those
who attend cardiology clinics. All the patients were evaluated in detail by clinical, ECG, X-ray, Echo - methods.
In the analysis of clinical findings elaborate history regarding the modes of presentation and symptoms were sought for and recorded. Symptoms of cardiac failure such as NYHA, Grade dyspnoea, orthopnoea, PND, NYHA classifiaction of angina, palpitation, fatiguability, giddiness, syncopy, coughs, hemoptysis, dysphagia and hoarseness of voice are recorded. In history taking, number of previous infarction, time window between onset of chest pain and admission in hospital, angina and dyspnoea free interval between attacks were recorded, systemic diseases, treatment regularity, relevant family history, substance abuse, basic investigations and their findings were also documented.
All volunteers of this study were subjected to ECG, echo study and X-ray (in selective cases). In echo studies, the territory of wall motion abnormalities, systolic, diastolic dysfunction, presence and absence of pericardial effusion, clot, aneurysm and calcification were noted. Left atrial and right ventricular dilatation were looked into for the presence of residual post MI failure especially when they are planned for discharge. A copy of the echo cardiogram
was issued to the patient for the future reference and follow up. In relevant patients blood investigation were done to study the biochemical parameters.
CONCLUSIONS:
1. Post MI cardiac failure is commoner in urban dwelling (54%) than rural (30%) than semi urban (16%).
2. Post infarction cardiac failure is common in male (90%). After 40 years of age raising incidence are observed in female.
3. Smoking (More than 20 cigarette's per day) and consumption of alcohol has linear relationship with incidence of post MI failure.
4. Sedentary Life Styles (58%), mixed diet pattern (78%), consumption of sheep or goat flesh rather chicken, egg, fish have positive and profound influence over the occurrence of post MI failure.
5. Most common clinical presentation is Tachycardia 100%, in a patient with chest pain or history of infarction. This is followed by cardiamegaly in 60% of case and LVS3 in 44% of patients and pansystolic murmur in 44%.
6. Most common symptomatology are NYHA IV 28%, orthopnoea 60% and Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dysponea 52%, NYHA III 32%, Rest angina 44%, effort angina 32%, nocturnal 30% and postural cough 26%.
7. Systemic high blood pressure with infarction (48%) was the single most aetiological factor for Post MI cardiac failure. Multitude of other factors, NIDDM 24%, history of one or two more infarction, chronic obstructive airway disease (16%) are other factors for post MI cardiac failure.
8. Anteroseptal wall and extensive anterior wall infarctions are the leading causes of post MI cardiac failure (24%) each. Perinfarction blocks (18%), ventricular premature contractions (10%) are the ECG manifestations concluded.
9. In 2D echo analysis hypokinesia (72%), Systolic Dysfunction (72%), small pericardial effusion (32%), Papillary muscle - Dysfunction / Mitral Regurgitation (PMD / MR) (22%), valves calcification (20%), left atrial enlargement (42%) are the observations made.


The proposition that a prudent investor should be diversified is widely accepted if not incontrovertible for ordinary investors – investors who have no reasonable expectation of influencing company management or business policy. Indeed, fiduciary duty requires that trustees and other investment managers assure that their clients be diversified. But the idea of diversification is not well articulated or understood even by sophisticated investors. This article fills that gap by laying out the logic (and mathematics) of diversification for ordinary investors who invest in common stock. As shown here, diversification can eliminate almost all of the company-specific risk that goes with investing in equities without any sacrifice of expected return. The only risk that remains is the risk that the market as a whole may do better or worse than expected. Thus, it is often said that diversification is the only free lunch in the market. It follows that diversified investors who assume less risk because they are diversified will pay more for the shares in which they invest and will thus dictate market prices. It further follows that undiversified stock-picking investors assume more risk than necessary and thus pay too much for the stocks in which they invest. In other words, the market has eaten their free lunch. The logic of diversification explains why investors have flocked to index funds – which offer maximum diversification for minimum fees – and why almost half of all stock in US companies is held by such funds. But the idea of diversification alone does not explain how much to invest in which companies. Fortunately, the market provides the answer to this question, and the answer turns out to be indexing. Generally speaking, we can depend on individual companies to maximize returns for their own stockholders by seeking out the most profitable opportunities in which to do business. Since market price is a function of expected return (divided by the required rate of return), it follows that ordinary investors should invest their funds in proportion to the aggregate market value of investee companies because by doing so investors are assured that their money is spread evenly across all lines of business in the economy in proportion to prospects for return. Thus, ordinary investors should invest in index funds that hold shares in proportion to the market capitalization of all possible portfolio stocks. It turns out that the 500 (or so) largest US stocks account for more than 80% of total market value. And as it happens, the value-weighted version of the S&P 500 (SPX) comprises exactly that portfolio. It follows that investing in an index fund that tracks SPX is a good way – possibly the best way – achieve maximum diversification at the lowest possible expense. Thus, it is mostly coincidence that investors favor index funds that track SPX as opposed to other indices. SPX was designed to measure the market and not as a normative strategy for investing. But it turns out that SPX provides the best guide for how to allocate investment funds within a portfolio of US common stocks. In other words, if SPX did not exist, it would be necessary to invent it. Moreover, by so allocating funds, the expenses of investment management can be kept to a minimum, because following an affirmative strategy of indexing precludes expending any fund assets on company-specific research. To engage in such research would be a literal waste of assets – and thus a breach of fiduciary duty – since there is nothing fund managers can do with the fruits thereof without violating an announced strategy of indexing. Similarly, indexing keeps the expenses of trading at the fund level to a minimum because the only trading that is necessary or appropriate is portfolio balance trading (PBT) to keep fund holdings proportional to the market capitalization of portfolio companies. Finally, it is wrong to characterize indexing as a passive investment strategy or one by which index investors free-ride on the efforts of traditional stock-picking investors who engage in company-specific fundamental research. To the contrary, indexing magnifies the disciplinary effects of market prices on portfolio company management. Moreover, indexing by some (or many) investors creates trading opportunities for other investors since index investors effectively cede first mover advantages to investors who engage in company-specific research. Thus, there is a symbiotic relationship between index investors and activist investors – and indeed among all investors of diverse interests – that arguably makes the market more efficient than it would otherwise be (in the absence of indexing).


Biofuel serves as an alternative energy to the common fossil fuels currently in use globally and are drawing increasing attention worldwide as substitutes for petroleum-derived transportation fuels to help address challenges associated with petroleum derived fuels. Third generation biofuels, also termed advanced biofuels, are produced from fast growing microalgae and are potential replacements for conventional fuels. The growth and biomass production of these microalgae is dependent on the conditions they are cultivated such as pH and Salinity. Cassava waste mixtures were cultivated on Chlorella vulgaris stock culture at different concentration ratio at ambient temperature, natural light and dark conditions at 670nm absorbance for 14 days. Optimum growth was obtained at 160:40 for cassava peel water to cassava waste water CP:CW. pH variations 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5 and 9.0 were checked to determine the optimum pH for the growth and biomass production of Chlorella vulgaris on the optimum cassava waste mixture concentration. It revealed that at pH 6.5, optimal growth and biomass production was achieved, minimal growth was observed at pH 8.0 while minimal biomass was produced at pH 9.0. Salinity variations of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 mg/l were used to determine the growth response and biomass production of Chlorella vulgaris. It revealed that salinity variation at 10ppm will be necessary for highest growth on the cassava waste as well as in biomass production. The use of optimal pH and salinity can significantly increase biomass production thus enhancing biofuel production.


This paper considers whether the Phillips curve can explain the recent behavior of inflation in the United States. Standard formulations of the model predict that the ongoing large shortfall in economic activity relative to full employment should have led to deflation over the past several years. I confirm previous findings that the slope of the Phillips curve has varied over time and probably is lower today than it was several decades ago. This implies that estimates using historical data will overstate the responsiveness of inflation to present-day economic conditions. I modify the traditional Phillips curve to explicitly account for time variation in its slope and show how this modified model can explain the recent behavior of inflation without relying on anchored expectations. Specifically, I explore reasons why the slope might vary over time, focusing on implications of the sticky-price and sticky-information approaches to price adjustment. These implications suggest that the inflation environment and uncertainty about regional economic conditions should influence the slope of the Phillips curve. I introduce proxies to account for these effects and find that a Phillips curve modified to allow its slope to vary with uncertainty about regional economic conditions can best explain the recent path of inflation. JEL Classification: E30, E31


Date palm, Phoenix dactylifera, as one of the most important fruit crops in Egypt and many other countries, can be affected by many fungal diseases, among which the vascular wilt disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum, is considered the most deteriorating one. This study aims at evaluating the efficiency of Copper-Chitosan Nanopcomposition for treating the vascular wilt disease in date palm. The study relies mainly on beleaguering the disease via the double-role functionality of copper-chitosan nanocomposition, i.e. its potential antifungal effect on the fungal pathogen, besides its capability to enhance the immune responses of the infected plant. In this regard, chitosan nanoparticles were prepared according to the ionic gelation method, whereas copper nanoparticles were prepared according to the chemical reduction method. Physicochemical characterization of both chitosan and copper nanoparticles was performed using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Copper-chitosan nanocomposition could significantly reduce the vascular wilt disease severity; this means that the nanocomposition can be used in the future for developing new nano-fungicides to control such pathogens.


The article is dedicated to ocean liners, the ambitious projects of the 1930s. The Interwar period was the golden age of transatlantic shipping, primarily due to technical improvements, for example, increased engine power and changes in ship hull shape. However from an artistic point of view, liners also proved to be an important field of application. Many European architects, sculptors, and decorators were involved in the design of the exterior of the liners and their interiors. Most of the masters who participated in the development of a special "liner style" were practitioners of art deco. The spectacular, varied art deco proved to be the most appropriate style, corresponding to the problems which had been set before the artists by the client companies. The subject of the research is to identify the relationship between the "liner style" of the 1930s and art deco, determining the place of the transatlantic liner projects in the culture of the XX century. The object of the research is the design conceptions in general, as well as works of art in the interiors of the liners. The author's aim is to demonstrate the high importance of these projects for the understanding of the Art Deco era, to characterize the complex approach of masters to the design of liner exteriors and interiors, to consider and compare the most outstanding design solutions. The research methodology includes historical and descriptive, comparative methods, cultural, historical, and culturological approaches. The main attention in the article is given to the French "Normandy", a recognized example of this style. To expand the context and the possibility of generalization, the focus is also made on two English liners: "Queen Mary" and "Queen Elizabeth". Among the artists the author points special attention to a French master, Jean Dunant. Dunant's panels made for the Normandy cigar lounge are considered examples of a decorative style, inspired by the exoticism of archaic or Oriental cultures.


What problems were addressed? The multiple mini-interview (MMI) is a multi-station interview consisting of eight to 12 stations, each of which lasts 8–10 minutes. A standardised scenario at each station evaluates a single facet of competence or a personal trait through the interviewer–interviewee interaction. It provides a valid, reliable and defensible approach to medical student selection. However, the MMI is insufficient for evaluating interpersonal skills, which are crucial for the medical practitioner. What was tried? This study added a group interview to seven MMI stations in medical student admission interviews at the National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Taiwan, in order to strengthen the evaluation of applicants' interpersonal skills, and to construct a more holistic and valid medical student admission interview. In 2011, NCKU interviewed 122 people who applied for admission to its medical programme. A total of 33 interviewers participated in the interviews. They all received at least 7 hours of training that aimed to establish an interview blueprint and scoring criteria, which would increase inter-rater consistency. Based on the mission and philosophy of the Department of Medicine at NCKU, the seven stations evaluated the following competencies and personal traits: empathy; respect for life; crisis management; initiative; insightfulness; integrity, and communication skills. At the group interview, a 5-minute video was played, after which four standardised questions were used to stimulate group discussion. Each group consisted of six or seven interviewees and three interviewers who monitored and evaluated the interviewee peer discussion. Based on statistical analyses, the correlations between each of the seven MMI stations and the group interview were all positive, ranging from 0.15 to 0.42. The correlation coefficients were all significant (all p < 0.05), the only exception being that for station 5 (insightfulness) (p = 0.10). Cronbach's alpha for the seven MMI stations was 0.54. When data for the group interview were added to the analysis, Cronbach's alpha for the MMI combined with the group interview rose to 0.63. What lessons were learned? The combination of the MMI with the group interview improved the validity of the medical student selection interview. In test item selection, the primary concern is to design and choose items that increase internal consistency first, and convergent and discriminatory validity secondly. The interviewee–interviewee peer discussion in the group interview is quite different from the interviewer–interviewee interaction in MMI stations. The positive correlations between the MMI stations and the group interview, then, can be taken as a good indication of convergent validity. It means the MMI stations and the group interview measured similar competencies in accordance with the mission and philosophy of the Department of Medicine at NCKU. Furthermore, the inclusion of the group interview with the MMI raised Cronbach's alpha from 0.54 to 0.63. This proves that the combining of the group interview with the MMI increased the internal consistency of the entire interview and made it a more valid interview. Interpersonal skill is hard to measure by MMI, but it can be measured in a group interview. In the medical profession, interpersonal skill is indispensable. This study added a group interview in the form of a peer discussion session to the MMI design and proved that this innovation created a more valid medical student selection interview.


In this investigations, sliding wear performance of Al-25Zn based novel hybrid composites added with fixed weight percentage of graphite (3 wt.%) and varying weight percentage of silicon carbide (10, 20 and 30 wt.%) was investigated for various process factors such as specimen temperature, applied load, sliding speed and sliding distance using a pin on disc with EN24 disc as per Taguchi L 16 array. For similar test conditions, the composite with 10 wt.% of silicon carbide shows the highest wear resistance and tensile strength; whereas the composite with 20 wt.% of SiC shows highest hardness. The specimen temperature is recognized as the dominating parameter for the sliding wear performance of the materials. Artificial Neural network and Regression model developed was found competent for the forecasting of wear performance. Confirmation experiment conducted with the optimum parameter combination also confirmed the accuracy of developed model. The observed wear mechanism is abrasion and adhesion. The major mechanisms of abrasive wear are recognized as ploughing, micro cutting and delamination.


Several metals have toxic actions on nerve cells and neurobehavorial functioning. These toxic actions can be expressed either as developmental effects or as an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases in old age. The major metals causing neurobehavioral effects after developmental exposure are lead and methylmercury. Lead exposure in young children results in a permanent loss of IQ of approximately 5 to 7 IQ points, and also results in a shortened attention span and expression of anti-social behaviors. There is a critical time period (<2 years of age) for development of these effects, after which the effects do not appear to be reversible even if blood lead levels are lowered with chelation. Methylmercury has also been found to have effects on cognition at low doses, and prenatal exposure at higher levels can disrupt brain development. Metals have also been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, although it is unlikely that they are the sole cause for any of them. Elevated aluminum levels in blood, usually resulting from kidney dialysis at home with well water containing high aluminum, result in dementia that is similar to but probably different from that of Alzheimer's disease. However, there is some epidemiological evidence for elevated risk of Alzheimer's in areas where there is high concentration of aluminum in drinking water. Other metals, especially lead, mercury, manganese and copper, have been implicated in amvotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.


Operations and maintenance costs for offshore wind plants are estimated to be significantly higher than the current costs for onshore wind plants. One way to reduce these costs would be to implement a structural health and prognostic management (SHPM) system as part of a condition based maintenance paradigm with smart load management. To facilitate the development of such a system a multiscale modeling approach has been developed to identify how the underlying physics of the system are affected by the presence of damage and faults, and how these changes manifest themselves in the operational response of a full turbine. This methodology was used to investigate the effects of rotor imbalance and shear web disbond on a 5-MW offshore wind turbine in the present report. Based on simulations of the model, the operational measurements that demonstrated the highest sensitivity to the damage/faults were the blade tip accelerations and local pitching moments for both imbalance and shear web disbond. Detection strategies have been developed for these fault mechanisms with the intent of being integrated into an operations and maintenance paradigm. The integration of the health monitoring information provides the initial steps to reducing operations and maintenance costs for an offshore wind farm while increasing turbine availability and overall profit.


Red pine (Pinus densiflora) is widely used traditional medicine, pharmacological and nutritional values from which the phytochemical compounds are derived. The present study was aimed to examine the antibacterial effects in the absence and presence of a immature red pine cone extract against 13 microorganisms. The components in the aqueous extract from immature red pine cone were identified by GC-MS. About 1.4% of total polyphenolic compound was measured in aqueous extract collected from immature red pine cone. Also, the high concentration of β-phellenandrene, α-pinene, limonene, bornyl acetate and aldehyde was detected in total ion chromatograms. Of total 13 microorganisms, 4 microorganisms including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholera, Listeria monocytogenes, Klebsiella pneumonia were effectively killed by aqueous extract of immature red pine cone. The highest anti-bacterial effect was detected in P. aeruginosa, followed by V. cholera, L. monocytogenes and K. pneumonia. In case of P. aeruginosa, the largest diameter of inhibition zone was maintained to 1/2 solution treated cells and slightly decreased at 1/4 and 1/8 solution treated cells. Also, in test used V. cholera and L. monocytogenes, the inhibition zone was strongly formed in only 1 and 1/2 solution treated cells, while K. pneumonia showed the very small diameter of inhibition zone in all concentrations. Therefore, these results suggested that the aqueous extracts of immature red pine cone should be considered as a new and potentially important anti-bacterial substrate to effectively prevent the microbial infection and penetration.


Thermal analysis involves solving a differential equation, thus inherently takes a long time. Any thermal optimization techniques require a compact model that can be evaluated fast while accuracy is not sacrificed too much. Several models have been proposed, but their accuracy and runtime have not been fully understood and compared. Three models, namely resistive network, heat diffusion measure, and thermal signature, are studied; a series of experiments reveals that thermal signature is clearly a model of choice. Power density is a key parameter in thermal analysis, and is usually given as a constant value, which corresponds to the average over the region a block occupies and over the time period it operates. The error as a result of approximation is often unnoticed; this is studied in a quantitative way for the first time.


This thesis critically explores ontological values ascribed to archival heritage in England, interrogating the archives field from a cultural heritage perspective. Using change-oriented research approaches, within a constructivist framework, it considers the ways in which archival institutions, archives practitioners and communities define and value archives.
A critical discourse analysis of strategic documentation from 1997 to 2017 examines professional and institutional conceptions of archival values. Following Smith (2006), an 'Authorised Archival Discourse' that naturalises certain ways of thinking about archives is theorised. It is argued that this discourse, which privileges some cultural subjectivities over others, shapes the activation of archives for political and social agendas. The theory is validated and extended through analysis of semi-structured interviews with archives practitioners. Alternative values emerge in cases studies of archival engagement and participatory research projects with communities. The City of York acts as a 'heritage laboratory' in which to observe how both authorised and alternative values are expressed through engagement programmes and community-based activity.

Two typologies of values are identified. An evidential typology, grounded in dominant Western epistemologies, encompasses juridical, historical and rights values and is conceptually dependent on notions of authenticity, integrity, authority and truth. An affective typology, generated through individual and communal encounters with archives, includes social and emotional values. This typology calls upon place, ownership, autonomy and lived experience for legitimacy. Values-based tensions arise between archival institutions and communities when evidential values are authorised by the discourse whereas expressions of affective values are marginalised. The thesis suggests that the dissonance generated by differing regimes of values impacts communication and collaboration between values-holders, and thus the potentiality of archives in society. In making this dissonance visible the thesis contributes to the theorisation of the "archival multiverse" (McKemmish, 2016) and the emerging field of critical archival studies (Caswell, Punzalan and Sangwood, 2017).


Recycling electronic waste is an important subject not only from the point of view of waste treatment, but also regarding the recovery of valuable metals. This research examined the stepwise recovery of metals in mobile phone waste using chemical treatment via pH swing and the biological method using biomineralization. In chemical treatment, the metal fraction attached to the printed circuit board (PCB) and camera parts were separated from the mobile phone waste and were then pulverized into particles with a size less than ~2 mm. The metal fraction was dissolved in aqua regia, and the pH of the solution was increased to 10.5 by adding NH4OH. The first precipitate was iron oxide, produced by raising the pH to 3.1~4.2 with NH4OH. Sequentially, copper chloride and rare earth-metal complex were produced at pH 5.7~7.7 and 8.3~10.5, respectively. In the biological method, the filtrate at pH 7.7 was added to a metal-reducing bacteria growth medium as a precursor. After two weeks of incubation, rhodochrosite and calcite were precipitated as nano-sized minerals. The results indicate that effective metal recovery of mobile phone waste is feasible using chemical and biological treatments, and the recovered metals and rare earth metals can be recycled into raw materials for various industries.


Background Meningococcal serogroup C (MenC) specific antibody levels decline rapidly after a single primary MenC conjugate (MenCC) vaccination in preschool children. A second MenCC vaccination during (pre)adolescence might attain longer lasting individual and herd protection. We aimed to establish an appropriate age for a (pre)adolescent MenCC booster vaccination. Methods A phase-IV trial with healthy 10-year-olds (n = 91), 12-year-olds (n = 91) and 15-year-olds (n = 86) who were primed with a MenCC vaccine nine years earlier. All participants received a booster vaccination with the same vaccine. Serum bactericidal antibody assay titers (SBA, using baby rabbit complement), MenC-polysaccharide (MenC-PS) specific IgG, IgG subclass and avidity and tetanus-specific IgG levels were measured prior to (T0) and 1 month (T1) and 1 year (T2) after the booster. An SBA titer ≥8 was the correlate of protection. Results 258 (96.3%) participants completed all three study visits. At T0, 19% of the 10-year-olds still had an SBA titer ≥8, compared to 34% of the 12-year-olds (P = 0.057) and 45% of the 15-year-olds (P<0.001). All participants developed high SBA titers (GMTs>30,000 in all age groups) and MenC-PS specific IgG levels at T1. IgG levels mainly consisted of IgG1, but the contribution of IgG2 increased with age. At T2, 100% of participants still had an SBA titer ≥8, but the 15-year-olds showed the highest protective antibody levels and the lowest decay. Conclusion Nine years after primary MenCC vaccination adolescents develop high protective antibody levels in response to a booster and are still sufficiently protected one year later. Our results suggest that persistence of individual - and herd - protection increases with the age at which an adolescent booster is administered. Trial Registration EU Clinical Trials Database 2011-000375-13 Dutch Trial Register NTR3521


Myotonic dystrophy (MD) is a multisystem disease affecting numerous organs and systems. Cardiac involvement is frequent. Sudden death, due to fatal cardiac rhythm and conduction disturbances occurs in 30% of patients with MD. The aim of this study was to assess the possibilities and methods of early detection of myocardial and conduction system disturbances. ECG, 24-hr Holter monitoring, echocardiography and electrophysiologic studies of the conduction system (electrophysiologic study) were carried out in 45 patients. Analysis of late ventricular potentials was done in 36 patients. Genetic studies revealed multiplication of CTG triplets in all patients. Cardiological abnormalities were detected in 89% of our patients. Disturbances of intraventricular conduction with prolongation of HV interval were most frequent (72%). Electrophysiologic study was the most sensitive method for detecting heart involvement in MD (positive findings in 87% patients). Abnormal findings were also discovered by Holter monitoring (64%), ECG (58%), analysis of late ventricular potentials (55%) and by echocardiography in 46% patients. The results of this study indicate a high rate of cardiac involvement in MD.


Cu-Al-Mn-Nb shape memory alloy with broad hysteresis and low martensitic transformation temperature can be obtained by properly designing on its composition. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses show that the t_(M~*) of the alloy is about -32 ℃, t_(A~*) is about 68 ℃, and the hysteresis range is about 100 ℃. Transmitted electronic microscopy (TEM), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffractrometry (XRD) analyses indicate that the martensite in the alloy is characterized by 2H-type texture, and its broad hysteresis effect is likely a result of Nb-rich grains separated out during the martensitic transformation, which would have relaxed some elastic strain energy. The alloy has favorable mechanical properties and shape memory effect, with tensile strength of about 250 MPa, the yield stress of about 380 MPa, the plastic elongation of about 7%, and the shape recovery rate over 93% after bending deformation at surface strain of 4%. Aging at room temperature for 2 months the shape recovery rate of the alloy has not evidently deteriorated.


Aspergillus fumigatus is a sporulating fungus found ubiquitously in the environment and is easily cleared from immunocompetent hosts. Invasive aspergillosis develops in immunocompromised patients, and is a leading cause of mortality in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. CCR7 and its ligands, CCL19 and CCL21, are responsible for the migration of dendritic cells from sites of infection and inflammation to secondary lymphoid organs. To investigate the role of CCR7 during invasive aspergillosis, we used a well-characterized neutropenic murine model. During invasive aspergillosis, mice with a CCR7 deficiency in the hematopoietic compartment exhibited increased survival and less pulmonary injury compared with the appropriate wild-type control. Flow cytometric analysis of the chimeric mice revealed an increase in the number of dendritic cells present in the lungs of CCR7-deficient chimeras following infection with Aspergillus conidia. An adoptive transfer of dendritic cells into neutropenic mice provided a protective effect during invasive aspergillosis, which was further enhanced with the adoptive transfer of CCR7-deficient dendritic cells. Additionally, CCR7-deficient dendritic cells activated in vitro with Aspergillus conidia expressed higher TNF-α, CXCL10, and CXCL2 levels, indicating a more activated cellular response to the fungus. Our results suggest that the absence of CCR7 is protective during invasive aspergillosis in neutropenic mice. Collectively, these data demonstrate a potential deleterious role for CCR7 during primary immune responses directed against A. fumigatus.


Traditional marketing communication media begin to be abandoned by customers; therefore, companies need to find other more effective alternatives to communicate with customers. Companies try to convince that customers not only use the the products they bought but also get unforgetable experience. Thus, companies often hold experiential marketing in the form of event as one of the alternatives. One of the efficient ways to conduct event marketing activities is by establishing an event sponsorship and building collaboration with event organizers. One of many companies which prioritizes its event sponsorship is PT Sinar Sosro East Java Region Representative Office. To be able to maintain the continuity of this program, PT Sinar Sosro East Java Region Representative Office needs to pay attention to the quality of event sponsorships services provided by company's Marketing support Division. The purpose of this study is to analyze customer evaluation that is the event organizers, for the quality of company's sponsorhip event services. In line with this purpose, this study used a 5-scale Likert measurement from the 5 dimension SERVQUAL measurement items with gap analysis techniques. Samples were taken using a proportional stratified random sampling method, resulted a minimum sample size of 97 respondents. Questionnaires were sent to 115 respondents but only 101 which could be analyzed further. Results showed that PT Sinar Sosro East Java Region Representative Office sponsorship event services was rated good since most of the results from gap analysis of each items of questionnaire statements showed a positive scores. Although some negative scores appeared, it did not dominate the overal result. The negative scores appeared on several items on tangibles, reliability and responsiveness dimensions. Overall positive scores were existed on assurance dimension, which consisted of the most statement items on this questionnaire, and empathy dimension. This indicated that the level of service received by customers had exceeded the service level expected by them.


Introduces the special issue, which looks at the changes experienced by public sector organisations during the last 20 years of the twentieth century, when they were being transformed from a bureaucratic system to a market‐oriented results‐driven system. States that during the 1990s the need for participation, involvement and empowerment of staff began to pervade the thinking of public managers and there was a move away from the old hierarchical command structures in the public sector in order to create more fluid responsive organisations. The issue looks at some of the negative and unanticipated effects of these changes.


In this paper, we are mainly concerned with estimating cascade reliability model (2+1) based on inverted exponential distribution and comparing among the estimation methods that are used . The maximum likelihood estimator and uniformly minimum variance unbiased estimators are used to get  of the strengths  and the stress ;k=1,2,3 respectively then, by using the unbiased estimators, we propose Preliminary test single stage shrinkage (PTSSS) estimator when a prior knowledge is available for the scale parameter as initial value due past experiences . The Mean Squared Error [MSE] for the proposed estimator is derived to compare among the methods. Numerical results about conduct of the considered estimator are discussed including the study of mentioned expressions. The numerical results are exhibited and put it in tables.


With the rapid increase of labor cost in domestic service industry, it provides a powerful driving force for rapid development of service robot. Vacuum cleaner Robot as a service robot, you can replace the people to clean rooms, workshops, walls and so on. In this paper, the structure and function of the robot's measurement and control system, the type and function of the selected sensor are introduced. The structure of the motor control system and the driving principle of the motor are introduced. It can be self-navigation, detection of the wall, the room obstructions and can avoid, can travel most of the room space, you can detect the battery power and autonomy to return to charge, with strong application value.


In the last few decades Northwestern Italy, particularly Piedmont and the interregional area closely connected with France, has seen the birth of a distinctive genre: the socalled Occitan Music. The first fieldwork about the folk sound expression in this area started between the 1960s and 1970s. Significant research was promoted in the context of Italian ethnomusicology which was then living a historic period of development. At the same time, the basis for surveys within the local space was established. The latter process led to an initial phase of cultural reappropriation, designed to point out the confines of a territorial and political identity. The interpretation of traditional heritage soon turned towards modern composition. Recent experiences maintain a symbolic bond with the original background have absorbed languages and communication tools from outside. The present work analyzes the results of this process, focusing on the increasing adoption of new media.


The floristic diversity of Handuzu Natural Park and Environs as a protected area within Kackar Mountains chain, situated in Guneysu and Ikizdere counties of Rize (Turkey) was studied. Overall, 517 taxa belong to 352 genera and 104 families were determined. Twenty-three of these taxa are represented in division Pteridophyta while 494 of them are in division Spermatophyta . Ten of Spermatophytes are in subdivision Gymnospermae and 484 of them are in subdivision Angiospermae . 89 of Angiosperms are in class Liliopsida while 395 of them in class Magnoliopsida . The endemism ratio in the study area is 4.25% (22 taxa). Phytogeographic elements are listed in order as: multiregional-unknown phytogeography root 47.4% (245), Euro-Siberian 47.2% (244), Irano-Turanian 2.1% (11), and Mediterranean 3.3% (17). The life spectrum of taxa is as follows: Hemicryptophytes 48.7% (252), phanerophytes 16.1% (83), therophytes 15.7% (81), chamaephytes 10.4% (54), and cryophytes 9.1 %, (47). The richest families in taxa are Asteraceae (52), Poaceae (35), Rosaceae (31), Fabaceae (25), and Lamiaceae (24). In the study area 22 taxa were found as threatened taxa at different threatened levels. The results of the study was compared with the results of 10 studies carried out in Rize and neighboring cities.


We report on a 4-year-old boy with the typical phenotype of Grebe dysplasia born to consanguineous parents. The father seems to be unaffected; the mother presents with brachydactyly type C (BdC). PCR amplification and sequencing of the cartilage-derived morphogenetic protein 1 (CDMP1) gene of the parents led to the identification of a heterozygous insertion of a single G at nucleotide 206. The mutation that causes frameshift and premature termination is predicted to result in functional haploinsufficiency. The child is homozygous for the insertion (insG206). The phenotypic spectrum of this loss-of-function mutation ranges from normal or BdC in heterozygotes to Grebe-type chondrodysplasia in the homozygously affected and seems to be due to CDMP1 gradient effects during pattern formation. A dominant negative action on other bone morphogenetic proteins is unlikely to cause the severe disruption of skeletogenesis seen in this case of Grebe dysplasia.


Propolis is a matter produced by honey bees. Propolis production is carried out through extraction with ethanol and dilution with water. In order to increase the propolis purity, ethanol and water need to be removed in the final product by vacuum evaporation. The evaporation process that has been utilized so far has not been able to regenerate ethanol properly and the propolis production capacity is yet in small amounts, so an optimization of evaporation process needs to be performed to increase the propolis production. The purpose of this study is to obtain an optimum condition of a vacuum extraction for propolis production. The method used is the numerical simulation of the extraction process that has been modeled mathematically. The model consists of mass balance, energy balance and momentum balance. The simulation results for the evaporator of 0.35 m in diameter and 0.18 m in fluid height show that the optimum condition is at 343 K and 5×10−3 atm with the evaporation time being about 13 hours.


Federal policies have a significant effect on how businesses spend money. The 2009 HITECH (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act) authorized incentive payments through Medicare and Medicaid to clinicians and hospitals when they use certified electronic health records privately and securely to achieve specified improvements in care delivery. Federal incentive payments were offered in 2011 for hospitals that had satisfied "meaningful use" criteria. A longitudinal study of nonfederal hospital information technology (IT) budgets (N = 493) during the years 2009 to 2011 found increases in the percentage of hospital annual operating budgets allocated to IT in the years leading up to these federal incentives. This increase was most pronounced among hospitals receiving high proportions of their reimbursements from Medicaid, followed by hospitals receiving high proportions of their reimbursements from Medicare, possibly indicating a budget shift during this period to more IT spending to achieve meaningful-use policy guidelines.


A linearized tuning varactor for the voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) is proposed in this paper. The capacitance-voltage (C-V) curve is linearized by combining an accumulation MOSFET (AMOS) and PMOS in parallel to form the varactor. Two ring voltage controlled oscillators (ring VCOs) are fabricated and measured with a standard 65-nm CMOS process. They are both identical except for the varactor. The first VCO uses the proposed varactor, and the second one is tuned by a conventional AMOS-only varactor for reference. The ring VCO with the proposed varactor operates from 500.5 to 807.6 MHz, and the VCO gain (KVCO) varies from 183 to 284 MHz/V. Comparing the reference VCO with the AMOS-only varactor, the measured KVCO variability is reduced by 82%. The phase noise is between -89 dBc/Hz and -92 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset while dissipating 0.8 mA from a 1.2-V supply.


Predictive models that satisfy group fairness criteria in aggregate for members of a protected class, but do not guarantee subgroup fairness, could produce biased predictions for individuals at the intersection of two or more protected classes. To address this risk, we propose Conditional Bias Scan (CBS), a flexible auditing framework for detecting intersectional biases in classification models. CBS identifies the subgroup for which there is the most significant bias against the protected class, as compared to the equivalent subgroup in the non-protected class, and can incorporate multiple commonly used fairness definitions for both probabilistic and binarized predictions. We show that this methodology can detect previously unidentified intersectional and contextual biases in the COMPAS pre-trial risk assessment tool and has higher bias detection power compared to similar methods that audit for subgroup fairness.


The convergence between Nubian and Eurasian plates in the Western Mediterranean is being accommodated by the Eastern Betic Shear Zone, located in Southeastern Iberia. This is a low strain region whose faults show low slip rates and long recurrence periods of their maximum earthquakes, so they do not provide clear evidence of their seismogenic activity. The Alhama de Murcia - Alcantarilla segment, defined as the NE end of the Alhama de Murcia Fault, is one of the structures of the Eastern Betic Shear Zone and there are few in-depth studies about its seismic potential. In order to assess the seismogenic potential and slip-rate of this segment we have carried out a structural analysis. We have built a 3D geological model of the area where the fault is currently bounding the Neogene Fortuna basin. The structural model is based on seismic reflection profiles which have been later input in MOVE, structural modelling and analysis software. The analysis of the model has revealed several structural features related to positive inversion tectonics in Fortuna basin, specifically a typical "harpoon" structure whose deformation is estimated to have begun since Upper Miocene (Messinian). Geometric models and area balance methods (e.g. depth-to-detachment method) applied to the previously mentioned structure have allowed to estimate the heave of the fault, representing the amount of shortening observed in the fault section during its recent activity. The horizontal shortening rate estimated is between 0.09 and 0.26 mm/yr during the last 5.3 - 2.6 Ma. Projecting the obtained shortening onto the fault plane and considering the present regional tectonic shortening it has been possible to obtain a net slip rate between 0.13 and 0.37 mm/yr. Such parameters suggest that the Alhama de Murcia - Alcantarilla segment has less activity than other segments of the fault. The result obtained is consistent with the fact that the Carrascoy Fault, oriented parallel and located to the south of the Alhama de Murcia - Alcantarilla segment, seems to absorb part of the regional tectonic shortening. That is why the relief uplifted by the Alhama de Murcia - Alcantarilla segment during the Quaternary is significantly less prominent than the mountains fronts generated by the Carrascoy Fault. Even so, Alhama de Murcia - Alcantarilla segment should be considered as an active structure with implications for seismic hazard. The maximum size of earthquake is calculated to be Mw 6.3 - 6.6 according to magnitude-area and magnitude-length scaling relationships, with a mean recurrence interval lower than 10.000 years for the slip rate obtained. In the same way, Mw 5.0 earthquakes, such as those recorded in the historical seismic catalog, are estimated to have a recurrence interval lower than 50 years. These earthquakes could be very destructive in densely populated areas, as is the case of SE Spain, so they should be considered in seismic-hazard analysis.


In treatment of the HIV/AIDS, the tri-therapy prescribes to the patients is generally made up of two therapeutic classes which are 2NRTIs+1NNRTI and 2NRTIs + 1IP.To evaluate the effect of these various therapeutic classes (2NRTIs+1IP and 2NRTIs+1NNRTI) on the biological monitoring parameters, a study was conducted on people infected by HIV. To do this, blood samples were taken from 45 subjects at the beginning of treatment up to 12 months. The results of our investigations showed that the 2NRTIs+1NNRTI therapeutic class was the most used during treatment with 84.44%, 80% and 75.56% respectively at M0, M06 and M12. At the erythrocyte level, anemia was very common among patients under the therapeutic class 2NRTIs+1IP, which with a rate of 28.6% at M0 increased to 33.3% at M06 and 45.5% at M12.In the same view, a significant increase of 27% in the prevalence of CD4 in the sixth month compared to the average rate at the beginning (respectively 28.6% and 55.6%) was observed. On the other hand, from M0 to M12, this rate dropped without a significant difference of 1.1%. Concerning the other parameters the majority of the subjects being under the two therapeutic classes had normal rates. This study shows that the different therapeutic classes had an effect on the biological parameters of our subjects.


Phospholipase D (PLD) can react with phospholipids as substrates, generally phosphatidylcholine (PtdCho), and the PLD-substrate intermediate can be cleaved by another alcohol, resulting in transphosphatidylation of the substrate, which can be used in the production of special lipids. In this study, the reaction conditions affecting the transphosphatidylation of PtdCho with serine were optimized and the reaction specificity of a novel PLD prepared from Acinetobacter radioresistens a2 was evaluated for transphosphatidylation with a variety of phospholipid substrates and head group donors. Based on the yield of phosphatidylserine, experimental kinetic data, maximum transphosphatidylation rate, and kinetic constant, the specificity of PLD in transphosphatidylation was found to be affected by unsaturated fatty-acid phospholipid substrates. The catalytic efficiency of PLD prepared from A. radioresistens a2 on the synthesis of natural phospholipids is on the order of l-serine > ethanolamine and glycerol ≫ inositol. Moreover, it was found that the transphosphatidylation of PtdCho with saccharides was related to the length of the carbon chain and the number of saccharide units.


grarnmesper litre; chlorides, 95 milligrammes per litre; bicarbonate,25 milligrammesper litre. The serumamylase was normal. Blood urea contentwas 23 mitligrammesper 100 millilitres. The heemoglobinvalue was 13·6 grammcs per 100 millilitres, the white cell count 7800 per cubic millimetre, and the erythrocyte sedimentationrate eight millimetres per hour. Treatment was instituted with penicillin and streptomycin,a Meulengrachtdiet and the administrationafter somedaysof "Amphojel", two drachms every two hours, and tincture of belladonna, 15 minims three times a day and 20 minims at night.


To become citizens of the world, students must understand with their heads, hands, and hearts the complex realities that people live within in a globalizing but nonetheless richly diverse world. A short-term study-abroad program, while brief in duration, may profoundly affect student learning and, indeed, transform life paths by providing students real experiences of cosmopolitan consciousness. The program described below and represented by the accompanying videos focuses on immersive, service-based learning in Costa Rica for the purpose of exploring sustainability in its multiple registers—social, environmental, and economic. Student reflection and commentary from our Costa Rican host institution confirm that programs such as this contribute critical insight toward the formation of globally competent citizens.


OBJECTIVE
We compared the results of transrectal sonography and endorectal MR imaging in the local staging of prostatic carcinoma.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS
56 patients (mean age, 61.1 +/- 7.3 years) with the diagnosis of prostate cancer who by transrectal sonography had no evidence of gross extracapsular extension underwent endorectal coil MR imaging prior to radical prostatectomy. Imaging findings prospectively evaluated in each patient were cancer laterality, extracapsular extension, and seminal vesicle invasion. Twenty-one of 56 (38%) patients had extracapsular extension on final pathology. A total of 100 sides and five seminal vesicles were involved with cancer, and 27 sides (21 patients, six with bilateral extracapsular extension) demonstrated extracapsular extension. Imaging results were correlated with step-sectioned, radical prostatectomy pathologic data, and statistical analysis was expressed at a p = .05 level of significance. Retrospective readings of the images were used to construct receiver operating characteristic curves for the detection of extracapsular extension.

RESULTS
For tumor laterality, transrectal sonography was compared with endorectal coil MR imaging for sensitivity (70% versus 97%; p < .001), specificity (58% versus 58%), positive predictive value (93% versus 95%) and negative predictive value (18% versus 70%). For extracapsular extension, transrectal sonography was compared with endorectal coil MR imaging for the entire prostate and individually for each side of the prostate. The respective results for sensitivity (48% versus 91%, p < .01 and 37% versus 78%, p < .005), specificity (71% versus 49% and 87% versus 73%), positive predictive value (50% versus 51% and 48% versus 48%), and negative predictive value (69% versus 90% and 81% versus 91%). The receiver operating characteristic analysis of retrospective data demonstrated endorectal coil MR imaging to be superior to transrectal sonography in the detection of extracapsular extension. The small number of seminal vesicles involved by cancer (n = 5) precluded meaningful comparisons between the imaging techniques.

CONCLUSIONS
Endorectal coil MR imaging is more sensitive but less specific than transrectal sonography for detecting extracapsular extension of carcinoma of the prostate. Both procedures have low positive predictive values yet similarly high negative predictive values when each side of the prostate is assessed independently for extracapsular extension.


A challenge for many discrete choice modeling applications is related to the level of detail that can be used when defining the competing options in the choice set.  One frequent problem has been the tradeoff between level of detail and the resulting size of the choice set:  adding more detail can quickly lead to very large choice sets that exceed the practical capabilities for model estimation.  In the area of vehicle choice, researchers have resorted to modeling the choice of "vehicle class," where vehicle class is defined to represent an aggregation of a much larger set of vehicles (frequently by averaging of attributes).  (An alternative approach is to randomly draw a sample of more highly detailed alternatives to represent the choice set.   This approach is outside the scope this study.)  A related issue is the level of detail available from, e.g., household survey data on their choices.  For example, most surveys (including the National Household Travel Survey, NHTS) only collect information about household vehicle model year, make, and model (e.g. 2008 Honda Civic), but this is not enough information to uniquely identify the exact vehicle chosen from a set of at least 6 distinct 2008 Honda Civic varieties.  In this case, the recorded choice is only "partially observed" relative to the level of detail that could otherwise be possible.  This is potentially critical, because important vehicle attributes (performance, fuel operating cost, and price) can vary substantially across these varieties.  The effect of level detail and/or aggregation on the properties of estimators is an area that has been largely unexplored. McFadden (1978) provides an early exploration of the "large choice set" issue, considering the case of household residential location choice where only the neighborhood (not the exact house) is observed.  He showed that if the distribution of relevant housing characteristics within a neighborhood is approximated by a multivariate normal distribution, then the higher moments of this distribution could be used to adjust the representative utility specifications in the nested logit structure and yield consistent parameter estimates and inferences.  McFadden proves the approach is valid for conditional logit or aggregation at the bottom level of a nested logit structure, and many researchers have used it (even when models are not nested logit.) One approach to the problem of partially observed data would be to aggregate alternatives up to the level where the choice variable is observed.  For example, in the 2008 NHTS data we only observe whether a 2008 model year Honda Civic is a hybrid or not.  The usual approach would be to average over attributes of the underlying non-hybrid models (e.g. DX, LX, or EX plus possibly different accessory packages) to produce attributes for the aggregate alternative "2008 non-hybrid Honda Civic" and then fit a discrete choice model using such aggregated alternatives.  Even then, the choice set size is so large that many researchers would find the estimation to be computationally challenging, and would further aggregate the vehicles into e.g., 30 classes (domestic sub-compact, imported small SUV, etc.) since otherwise the choice models become large and computationally challenging. However, this widely used approach leads to inconsistent parameter estimates, and this paper investigates the nature of this inconsistency using both a Monte Carlo study and a model of new vehicle purchase behavior using 2008 NHTS data.  We explore the properties of McFadden's approach, but also the performance of an efficient "broad choice" maximum likelihood estimator (see Brownstone and Li ,and Lloro and Brownstone). We find that the aggregation bias in the parameter estimates can be large, but the bias in the estimated confidence intervals is much larger (sometimes by a factor of more than 10). Like many household surveys, the NHTS does not yield a representative sample of the US residential population.  Even when the NHTS sampling weights are used, missing data in key variables (vehicle model year, type, and date of purchase) lead to a biased sample.  Since we have market share data available, we use this information to improve estimation using both the Weighted Exogenous Sample Maximum Likelihood Estimator (WESMLE) and the Berry, Levinson, and Pakes (BLP) estimator extended to the broad choice situation.  The broad choice BLP estimator is computationally demanding, but is more efficient than the WESMLE.  Our results reflect the inefficiency of the WESMLE, but all consistent estimators yield very wide confidence bands when applied to the new vehicle choice model with NHTS data. A long-standing problem with vehicle choice models is that at least some important vehicle attributes are frequently not observable (or, they are only observed with substantial error).  This missing/noisy information exacerbates estimation issues because vehicle price is endogenous, and is the motivation for the two-step BLP approach that uses instruments to model vehicle price. We expect that our broad choice approach somewhat mitigates this problem since our attribute data is not contaminated by aggregating over many different vehicles.  We check this by comparing our estimates for both the aggregate and broad choice BLP estimates, using instruments suggested by Train and Winston (2007).  We find that using these instruments does not improve our results, and that the bias in the standard errors from using the two-stage BLP approach is very large without some type of correction. We conclude that better data and better models are needed before we can make accurate quantitative predictions of the impact of policies designed to mitigate problems associated with household automobile use.  The new broad choice BLP estimators used in this work are theoretically superior but computationally demanding.  We speculate that data on multiple markets with different prices are needed to get more accurate estimates using these methods.  Finally our results show that failing to account for aggregation across alternatives in discrete choice models can lead to very substantial biases in both parameter estimates and confidence intervals.


We report a case of papular cutaneous amyloidosis associated with multiple myeloma in a 52 years old man who presented papular xanthoma like lesions in periorbital areas and scrotum with severe bone pain in thoracic and lumbar spinal column and lower limbs. Cutaneous histopathology revealed the presence of amorphous deposits in papillary dermis surrounded with small lymphoid infiltrates with erythrocyte containing slots. Congo red staining was positive and bone marrow aspiration showed dysplastic plasma cells. Lytic lesions were observed in long bones and skull radiography. 24 hours Proteinuria was 3.69 g / l. A combination of Melphalan and prednisone as treatment could restore renal function without any change in skin lesions after 14 months.


An effective method of producing small neutral carbon clusters Cn (n = 1?6) is described. The small carbon clusters (positive or negative charge or neutral) are formed by plasma which are produced by a high power 532?nm pulse laser ablating the surface of the metal Mn rod to react with small hydrocarbons supplied by a pulse valve, then the neutral carbon clusters are extracted and photo-ionized by another laser (266?nm or 355?nm) in the ionization region of a linear time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The distributions of the initial neutral carbon clusters are analysed with the ionic species appeared in mass spectra. It is observed that the yield of small carbon clusters with the present method is about 10 times than that of the traditional widely used technology of laser vaporization of graphite.


Abstract Bakhtin regarded every sign as a dialogic sign while Peirce regarded every sign as a sign of thought. But a sign of thought is in dialog with the self. Thure von UexkOII even said that" life is always and everywhere a dialogue between self and self". Thus troth thinkers agreed on the dialogic nature of all signs. All three thinkers even agreed on the presence in the sign of two interpreters-the self and other, thus displaying a unity in their three theories. The current standard theory of semiotics, the USST-2000, handles the presence of two interpreters quite well but is not able to explain the semiotic details of dialog. Since dialog is a well attested function of signs, there is an empirical need to modify the USST-2000. This paper attempts to make the minimum adjustments to the USST- 2000 in order to bring dialog within its explanatory power. The theory presented here is successful in doing that and I therefore refer to it as the USST-2010. The structure of the USST-2010 still maintains a recognizable Peircean heritage and hence can be regarded as a further extension of Peirce's original semiotic theory.


The foundation for the development of modern compressible flow solver is the Riemann solution of the inviscid Euler equations. The high-order schemes are basically related to high-order spatial interpolation or reconstruction. Due to the first-order wave interaction in the Riemann solution, the temporal accuracy is improved through the Runge-Kutta method, where the dynamic deficiencies in the 1st-order Riemann solution is alleviated through the sub-step spatial reconstruction in the Runge-Kutta process. The close coupling between the spatial and temporal evolution in the original nonlinear governing equations seems weakened due to its spatial and temporal decoupling. A solution under piecewise discontinuous high-order initial reconstruction for the Navier-Stokes equations directly is on a urgent need for many high-order methods. Unfortunately, the piece-wise discontinuous initial data and the hyperbolic-parabolic nature of the Navier-Stokes equations seem to be inconsistent mathematically, such as the divergence of the viscous and heat flux due to discontinuity. In this paper, based on the Boltzmann equation, we are going to present a flux function for the Navier-Stokes equations starting from a high-order reconstruction. The theoretical validity for such an approach is due to the fact that the Boltzmann equation has no specific requirement on the smoothness of the initial data and the kinetic equation has the mechanism to describe the gas evolution starting from an initial discontinuous data. The current high-order flux evaluation method is an extension of the second-order gas-kinetic BGK scheme for the Navier-Stokes equations (BGK-NS). The novelty for the easy extension from a 2nd-order, which is equivalent to the Generalized Navier-Stokes flow solver, to an even higher order is solely due to the simple particle transport mechanism on the microscopic level, i.e., the particle free transport and collisions. This paper will present a hierarchy to construct such a high-order method. Numerical examples for a 3rd-order scheme will be presented. The necessity to couple spatial and temporal evolution nonlinearly in the flux evaluation can be clearly observed through the numerical performance of the scheme for the viscous flow computations. email:email@example.com email:email@example.com


An advanced dynamic neutron imaging system has been constructed in the McMaster Nuclear Reactor (MNR) for nondestructive testing and multi-phase flow studies in energy and environmental applications. A high quality neutron beam is required with a thermal neutron flux greater than 5.0×106 n/cm2 -s and a collimation ratio of 120 at image plane to promote high-speed neutron imaging up to 2000 frames per second. Neutron source strength and neutron transport have been experimentally and numerically investigated. Neutron source strength at the beam tube entrance was evaluated experimentally by measuring the thermal and fast neutron fluxes, and simple analytical neutron transport calculations were performed based upon these measured neutron fluxes to predict facility components in accordance with high-speed dynamic neutron imaging and operation safety requirements. Monte-Carlo simulations (using MCNP-4B code) with multiple neutron energy groups have also been used to validate neutron beam parameters and to ensure shielding capabilities of facility shutter and cave walls. Neutron flux distributions at the image plane and the neutron beam characteristics were experimentally measured by irradiating a two-dimensional array of Copper foils and using a real-time neutron radiography system. The neutron image characteristics — such as neutron flux, image size, beam quality — measured experimentally and predicted numerically for beam tube, beam shutter and radiography cave are compared and discussed in detail in this paper. The experimental results show that thermal neutron flux at image plane is nearly uniform over an imaging area of 20.0-cm diameter and its magnitude ranges from 8.0×106 – 1.0×107 n/cm2 -sec while the neutron-to-gamma ratio is 6.0×105 n/cm2 -μSv.Copyright © 2006 by ASME


Background

An increasing number of studies suggest that gut microbiota composition and structure contribute to the pathophysiology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD),and the gut microbiota has been proposed as a new target in the treatment of diet-induced NAFLD. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of pure total flavonoids from citrus (PTFC) on NAFLD and gut microbiota dysbiosis in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice and to further investigate whether the attenuation of NAFLD is related to the modulation of the gut microbiota.

Results

PTFC intervention could significantly attenuate symptoms in mice with HFD-induced NAFLD.Based on the results of 16S rDNA sequencing, PTFC treatment could increase the phylogenetic diversity of the HFD-induced microbiota. PTFC intervention could significantly restore the HFD-induced increases in the relative abundances of Bacteroidaceae and Christensenellaceae.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that PTFC could serve as a novel candidate for the prevention of NAFLD by modulating the gut microbiota.


BACKGROUND
Low walking ability is highly prevalent with advancing age and predicts major health outcomes. Metabolomics may help to better characterize differences in walking ability among older adults, providing insight into potentially altered molecular processes underlying age-related decline in functioning. We sought to identify metabolites and metabolic pathways associated with high versus low walking ability among 120 participants ages 79-95 from the CHS All Stars study.

METHODS
Using a nested case-control design, 60 randomly selected participants with low walking ability were matched one-to-one on age, gender, race, and fasting time with 60 participants with high walking ability. High versus low walking ability was defined as being in the best versus worst tertiles for both gait speed (≥0.9 versus <0.7m/s) and the Walking Ability Index (7-9 versus 0-1). Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, 569 metabolites were identified in overnight-fasting plasma.

RESULTS
Ninety-six metabolites were associated with walking ability, where 24% were triacylglycerols. Triacylglycerols that were higher among those with high walking ability consisted mostly of polyunsaturated fatty acids, whereas triacylglycerols that were lower among those with high walking ability consisted mostly of saturated or monounsaturated fatty acids. Body composition partly explained associations between some metabolites and walking ability. Proline and arginine metabolism was a top pathway associated with walking ability.

CONCLUSION
These results may partly reflect pathways of modifiable risk factors, including excess dietary lipids and lack of physical activity, contributing to obesity and further alterations in metabolic pathways that lead to age-related decline in walking ability in this older adult cohort.


The problem of collection and disposal of household waste in municipalities of the Russian Federation in individual residential sectors is studied. Ways to solve the problem by legal means are proposed.


We have previously developed a global optimization method using an escape function that finds multiple local solutions in the multidimensional parameter space of a lens. We have applied this method to various actual design problems and have been able to understand some topological features of the merit function in its parameter space. These experiences have led us to develop an improved global optimization method that takes into account the robustness of the lens with respect to manufacturing and assembly errors. The method uses a technique that we call "θ-segmentation" to perform the escape function search in a smaller parameter space. After reaching an acceptable solution with the escape function, it often seems impossible to reduce the sensitivity in tolerance without degrading the image quality already acquired. Generally speaking, performance and robustness are in a trade-off relation, i.e. reduced sensitivity can be obtained only by increasing the merit function of the system. However, in reality, it is often possible to reduce sensitivity without substantial increase of the merit function. Furthermore, in many cases, it is possible to reduce the merit function and the sensitivity simultaneously by using our new method.


The two main approaches to the characterization of single-mode fibres: viz. Equivalent Step Index (ESI) and Mode Field Diameter (MFD) are still causing confusion and no real standard procedure has won the confidence of laboratory users. In a previous paper we have shown that in principle, a self For consistent method can unify both the ESI and MFD approaches. instance, it has been shown that the two parameter of the ESI approximation as derived from the moment theory of single-mode optical fibres can be determined independently from either measurement of the Petermann MFD or from measurements of the refractive index profile. This duality feature makes the moments description of single-mode fibres unique amongst a whole range of experimental and theoretical characterization methods. In this paper we implement and critically assess our new approach using three independent measurement procedures. The ESI parameters as obtained from (i) MFD measurements, (ii) preform profile measurements and (iii) fibre profile measurements are compared for a nominally step index fibre fabricated by the MCVD process. A statistical approach is adopted in analysing the measurement data, thereby reducing the influence of measurement error and other inherent uncertainties. Results show that while the preform and the fibre profile measurements produce essentially the same equivalent core radius and the same equivalent numerical aperture (with allowance for diffusion effects) the ESI parameters produced by the MFD are substantially different. The discrepancy arises from the use of the "effective" cut-off wavelength, as derived from the MFD measurements, instead of the "theoretical" cut-off wavelength (corresponding to a V-value of 2.405) in the evaluation of the ESI parameters. However, it is found that if the cut-off wavelength as derived from the profile measurements, is used in the interpretation of the MFD data then, the three measurement approaches predict very similar ESI parameters. While only one fibre-preform is reported here, one other nominally step-index fibre-preform exhibited similar trends


A morphology transformation of hybrid liposomes was shown to occur from spherical vesicles to tubular micelles when increasing the ratio of the metal complex lipid present. Phase transition temperatures increased while viscosities decreased, indicating that the hybrids exhibit stronger interaction between heads but weaker interaction between alkyl chains than occurs in pristine liposomes.

publisher-specific, author manuscript: http://rsc.li/journals-terms-of-use


Clinical review p 1249

We now have proof that screening can reduce mortality from colorectal cancer Three randomised trials have shown that screening by faecal occult blood testing every two years has the potential to reduce mortality by up to 20%.1–3 With expected compliance rates of around 60%, screening of 50-69 year olds would prevent around 1200 deaths from colorectal cancer each year in the United Kingdom. These estimated benefits are similar to those of three yearly mammography screening in preventing breast cancer mortality, with similar costs of around £40m a year. Thus the UK Screening Committee is about to start two pilot studies examining the feasibility of implementing national faecal occult blood screening. As well as issues concerning the faecal occult blood test itself, there is also no consensus about the best method of investigating those who test positive.

Each pilot site comprises 1 million population, with 20% in the target age range 50-69 years. The pilots will examine a single round of two yearly screening. Thus, faecal occult blood tests will be sent to 100 000 people in year 1 and to the remaining 100 000 in year 2. The test requires participants to take a more active role than with other screening tests. They must sample three consecutive stools and repeat the examination, with dietary restriction, if the result is equivocal (expected in 2% of cases). With a compliance rate of 60% and positivity rate of 2%, 1200 people in …


We introduce hyperpolarized [1,5-13C2]Z-OMPD as a novel in vivo pH sensor. Upon synthesis from ethyl pyruvate, the molecule appears to be non-toxic and shows good hyperpolarization properties, as indicated by high polarization levels and long T1 relaxation times for both 13C-labels. 13C-chemical shifts show good pH sensitivity in the physiological range, which enables pH imaging in vitro of human blood phantoms of different pH. In vivo pH imaging upon injection in rats reveals previously reported pH compartments in kidneys. It is further demonstrated, that the OMPD1 peak can be used as internal reference, further facilitating the process.


In 1982, Chicago physician Bob Goldman began conducting surveys every two years of sprinters, swimmers, powerlifters and other athletes-most of them US Olympians or aspiring Olympians. As reported in a Sports Illustrated cover story, the 1995 poll of 198 such athletes produced this chilling result: "Scenario I. You are offered a banned performance-enhancing substance, with two guarantees: 1) You will not be caught; 2) You will win. Would you take the substance? One hundred and ninety-five athletes said yes: three said no. "Scenario II. You are offered a banned performance-enhancing substance that comes with two guarantees: 1) You will not be caught. 2) You will win every competition you enter for the next five years, and then you will die from the side effects of the substance. Would you take it? More than half the athletes said yes."[1].


Abstract A new method is described for photogrammetry of clouds from aircraft side camera movies, to take into account cloud motion. In extreme circumstances of measurement, this leads to improvements of 500 m in cloud height. General use of the method is desirable when cloud measurements are related to other data. On 10 December 1978 over the South China Sea, cumulus fractus were of depth ∼0.2 km, and updrafts were of width ∼0.25 km. For humilis the corresponding numbers were 0.7 and 0.4 km. Mediocris with tops at height (z) 2.2 km had updrafts of width (w) ∼1.3 km. Updrafts in congestus towers increased with height, with dw/dz ∼0.17, a figure similar to that found for day 245 of the GARP Atlantic Tropical Experiment. Cloud number densities on 10 December varied over an order of magnitude over distances of 100 km, even in circumstances relatively uniform on the large scale. Order of magnitude estimates of percent area coverage by updrafts yield values up to 10% for fractus and humilis combined, up to a f...


This paper first describes the construction and use of the hyperreals in the theorem-prover Isabelle within the framework of higher-order logic (HOL). The theory, which includes infinitesimals and infinite numbers, is based on the hyperreal number system developed by Abraham Robinson in his nonstandard analysis (NSA). The construction of the hyperreal number system has been carried out strictly through the use of definitions to ensure that the foundations of NSA in Isabelle are sound. Mechanizing the construction has required that various number systems including the rationals and the reals be built up first. Moreover, to construct the hyperreals from the reals has required developing a theory of filters and ultrafilters and proving Zorn's lemma, an equivalent form of the axiom of choice. This paper also describes the use of the new types of numbers and new relations on them to formalize familiar concepts from analysis. The current work provides both standard and nonstandard definitions for the various notions, and proves their equivalence in each case. To achieve this aim, systematic methods, through which sets and functions are extended to the hyperreals, are developed in the framework. The merits of the nonstandard approach with respect to the practice of analysis and mechanical theorem-proving are highlighted throughout the exposition.


All investors aim at maximizing the returns on their investment. Many individuals in the workforce invest in themselves by the pursuit of further studies on a part-time basis in order to better equip themselves, face the challenges ahead and map out a brighter career path. Yet, they may make their educational decisions without adequate data and support, which leads to a less-than-optimal choice. They sometimes overestimate the potential of salary increase and career advancement upon finishing the programme. This research is undertaken to examine how individual people in the Hong Kong workforce seek information to make their decisions for their part-time education programmes.

A combination of quantitative questionnaire survey and qualitative semi-structured interviews was adopted in this research. A questionnaire survey was carried out with a sample size of 55 university students in part-time evening classes. Then, a sub-sample of 16 students took part in the semi-structured interviews. Using grounded theory, I identified eight different themes from the results: motivation to study; information-seeking process; information needs and obtainment; difficulties in information-seeking process; perceptions of returns on human capital investment; comparison between human capital investment and financial investment; career guidance services and labour relations in Hong Kong. The quantitative data from questionnaires are analysed for better triangulation, verification and contextualisation of the research findings.

There are several findings in this study. First, the returnees to higher education who participated in this research were motivated by a wide range of factors. Secondly, educational institutions and peers were their key information sources. Thirdly, they would rather focus on the details relating to their interested programme than aim at a broader view including information on the current labour market situation and the possible outcomes upon accomplishment of their programme. Another point is the insufficient information they obtained. This could not fulfil their genuine needs. Moreover, different obstacles existed in the returnees' intrinsic characters, information sources and interactions between the returnees and the information sources during their information searching process. Following that, most returnees perceived that information on projections of returns on human capital investment was generally important in their educational decision making. Besides, they believed further studies were of low risk with long-term benefits but financial investment was of high risk with short-term benefits. In addition, they showed misunderstanding and lack of awareness about career guidance services. Furthermore, self-efficacy in educational decision making is determined by a number of factors affecting maturity. Finally, it is found that the labour relations in Hong Kong have been showing signs of deterioration.

A number of implications for policy based on the findings are identified in this research. To begin with, guidance services catering for the special needs of individuals in the workforce and part-time students should be developed and widely promoted. Besides, past cohorts can be invited as informal mentors and volunteers to answer questions from the prospective returnees. Following the point mentioned above, partnership programmes can be established between lecturers and guidance officers in educational institutions to create a win-win situation. Information providers can pay more attention to ensure that quality of information provided is accurate, up-to-date and specific. What's more, projections of returns on human capital investment and risk management are necessary to be included as part of the basic programme information. Last but not the least, a credit accumulation and transfer system should be developed among institutions of higher education in Hong Kong.


An undirected graph approach to enhance the quality of the process of boundary recognition is presented. The co-ordinates of the vertices and edges of the graph are fixed and connected with specific pixels. This allows to combine advantages of both graph theory and 2D spatial image analysis. The algorithm presented is much more efficient than conventional techniques when used for images with high noise and severe disturbances. >


Calcium is an important secondary messenger and plays a major role in cell function, including proliferation, cell growth, secretion and death .It also plays a critical role in uterine smooth muscle contraction and embryo implantation. This thesis is concerned with calcium homeostasis in epithelial tissue lining the oviduct and uterus which are key players in early reproductive events, being involved in gamete transport, sperm capacitation and providing the micro-environment for the gametes and early embryo. Calcium transport across epithelial cells is either via tight junctions or calcium channels, specifically, members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel superfamily and the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger. TRP channels are an important class of calcium channels with more than 28 identified members and their potential involvement in calcium transport in uterus and oviduct epithelia has yet to be determined. The aim of this study was to discover which TRPC isoforms are expressed in epithelial cells lining the female reproductive tract in the bovine and human. Gene expression of TRPC channels changes was measured throughout the estrous cycle in bovine oviduct and uterine epithelial cells using Real-Time PCR, while immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry and western blotting were used to discover the localization of TRPC channels in oviduct/uterine epithelium and changes in protein expression of TRPC isoforms induced by sex hormones. . to The physiological role of TRPC isofoms in regulating intracellular calcium concentration in bovine oviduct epithelial cells was determined using a calcium assay approach and finally. the potential clinical relevance of a possible role of TRP channels in female reproduction was investigated. OF 7 members of TRPC family, TRPC1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 were expressed in bovine oviduct and uterine epithelia. In human endometrium, TRPC1, 6 and 7 genes were detected. Expression levels of all TRPC isoforms present in both bovine oviduct and uterine epithelia changed throughout the estrous cycle. 17β-estradiol, FSH and LH individually and in combination up-regulated gene expression of TRPC isoforms in bovine oviduct epithelial cells. However, progesterone inhibited the upregulatory effect of 17β-estradiol, FSH and LH on TRPCs gene expression. TRPC1 and TRPC6 which are the common TRPC isoforms in bovine oviduct/uterine epithelium and human endometrium were localized on the apical, basal and lateral membranes of the epithelial tissue in bovine oviduct/uterus and human endometrium. TRPC isoforms were physiologically active in bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC). SKF96365 which is a general TRP channel blocker inhibited the calcium influx into BOEC. Furthermore, Hyperforin which is a TRPC6 channel activator increased the intracellular calcium concentration in BOEC. TRPC1, 6 and 7 expression in endometrium of patients being treated for infertility by IVF illustrated that gene expression of TRTPC1 and 6 were up regulated in the endometrium of the IVF patients compared to controls. However, gene expression of TRPC7 in IVF patients was downregulated compared to that of the endometrium of the control group. Gene expression of TRPC6 and 7 in endometrium of women with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) who have higher level of LH and normal FSH level, alongside the absence of the post-ovulatory increase in progesterone secretion, were up -regulated compared to that of the control group. However, the expression level of TRPC1 in endometrium of PCOS patients was not significantly different compared to the control group. Gene expression of TRPC isoforms in the epithelia lining the female reproductive tract is possibly regulated by sex hormones via nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-КB) signalling pathway. However, further investigation is required to determine the mechanisms underlying the endocrine regulation of TRPC channels.