Synopsis-In the previous paper the authors classified the atmospheric wave-forms from near origins into three fundamental types, i.e., main discharge type, leader discharge type and partial discharge type. It has been studied further in this paper, the fine structure of the leader discharge type wave-forms from cumulo-nimbus which has grown up to a stage just before a thunder-cloud, the wave-forms from cloud to earth discharges, and the main discharge type wave-forms in calm days. Widths of pulses of differential type wave-form and their intervals of occurrence, of which a leader discharge type wave-train is constructed, are found to have their most frequent values of about 60 micro-seconds and 250-350 micro-seconds respectively. A statistical investigation of these pulses produced by intra-cloud discharge in cumulo-nimbus shows that the stepped leader like character of them corresponds unlikely to the stepped leader stroke as in the case of the cloud to earth discharge, but represents presumably the small local separate dart leader like sub-discharges which are s imultaneously superposed upon the violent main cloud discharge of stepped leader character. The analysis of clear pulsive wave trains, which correspond to the cloud to earth d ischarge that occurred within several hundred metres from the observation station, shows the similar values of pulse interval and pulse width to those of intra-cloud discharge in the earlier stage. The interval of pulses reduces to 30-60 micro-seconds in the later stage, but the pulse width on the other hand does not reduce so evidently as pulse interval. Although the authors assume that these recorded wave trains are produced from the first leader stroke of this lightning, it is not evident at present the reason why the intervals are larger and · the pulse width has the measurable value of more than several ten micro-seconds in the earlier stage. The simultaneous observation of lightning and corresponding discharge wave-form shows that the first large pulse of the main discharge type wave-form, which corresponds to cloud to earth discharge, should be interpreted as to be emitted from the main part of return stroke of the corresponding cloud to earth lightning. Comparison between the wave-forms of main discharge type in calm days and those obtained during thunder-storms, which correspond perhaps both to cloud to earth discharge and to intra-cloud discharge of special type, indicates that the main discharge type wave-form in calm days does not always interpreted as to be emitted from the return stroke of a cloud to earth lightning, but some times may be interpreted as to be radiated from a special type discharge in the cloud.


Academician Vilém Laufberger participated in a significant way in the work of the Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences. He was one of its founders as a member of the preparatory commission for its establishment, an important official in its presidium, founder and director of one of its institutes and a permanent long-term critical observer and commentator of its activities. He greatly appreciated the steep rise of biomedical research at the beginnings of the Academy as a worthy development of the traditions of world reknown physiologists J. E. Purkynĕ and I. P. Pavlov. He evaluated favourably also its subsequent development. At the very beginning he drew attention to some shortcomings which during subsequent development influenced the activities of the Academy in an adverse way. Their elimination is a task for the present time.


Purpose

The purpose of this article is to explore and classify the pattern of themes and challenges in developing socially sustainable supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is based on a systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature to explore what major themes and challenges have been discussed and the significant gaps where opportunities for further research can be found.

Findings

In total, four categories of themes were identified, namely, human-centric, focal organization-centric, supply chain-centric and governance-centric. Challenges were classified into seven categories, namely, inadequate and asymmetric knowledge, difficulties of operationalization, shifting the values, subjectivity in evaluation, governance complexity, difficulties of small- and medium-sized enterprises and sustainability fade.

Research limitations/implications

The focus of the article is on the social pillar of sustainable development in the context of supply chains. A more holistic systematic investigation of synergy of all the three pillars/bottom lines of sustainable development (economic, environmental and social) can be an opportunity for further research.

Practical implications

Taking a more holistic view of the pattern of currently discussed themes and challenges may be beneficial in increasing the absorptive capacity of industrial and business practitioners, by accumulating and assimilating external knowledge, when they design and operationalize innovative strategies in developing sustainable supply chains.

Originality/value

This article may increase awareness about the social responsibilities of supply chains actors and stakeholders in different scales. It may also guide managers, decision makers and practitioners to better understand the difficulties, obstacles or dilemmas that can hinder the sustainable development of supply chains. The results section presents a framework driven from the emerged themes, and the discussion section provides propositions for tackling the challenges and opportunities for further research.


Introduction: Higher parity pregnancy is common in developing countries and is considered as a high risk factor for maternal and perinatal complications. The objective of the study was to compare the obstetric and neonatal outcomes in higher parity with that of lower parity in our hospital. Retrospective comparative study was done in a tertiary care hospital in Government Medical College Manjeri, Malappuram, Kerala, India from April to June 2017.Data from labour room records was collected from 131 lower parity (P1) pregnant women and 259 higher parity women (P2 and higher) who came and gave birth in the hospital .The obstetric and neonatal outcomes of both groups were compared using appropriate statistical tools. P<0.05 was taken as significant. Results: A total of 390 women participated in the study. Higher parity women had higher incidence of anaemia, hypertensive disorders, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and more of meconium stained amniotic fluid. Occurrence of Diabetes both gestational and pregestational and incidence of atonic postpartum haemorrhage, however, was paradoxically low. Conclusion: Higher parity and its associated complications still occur frequently. However, limiting parity might improve both maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Health facility based family planning awareness should be instituted. Adequate antenatal surveillance, optimal intrapartum and postpartum care will further reduce the complications.


INTRODUCTION
Glutathione S-transferases pi1, alpha1 and micro3 are members of an enzymatic superfamily involved in the conjugation and detoxification of carcinogens. Polymorphisms affecting the genes encoding these enzymes may modify their ability to neutralize carcinogens. Our aim was to investigate whether these polymorphisms affect the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in humans.

METHODS
A total of 184 white Spanish patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma and 248 healthy control subjects from the same ethnic origin were included. GSTA1*B promoter allele, GSTM3*B 3-bp-deleted allele and GSTP1 Ile105Val SNP were identified.

RESULTS
No differences were found between the distribution of the studied polymorphisms, or in the allele frequencies for variant alleles in patients and controls: 0.411 and 0.371 for GSTA1, 0.116 and 0.131 for GSTM3, and 0.285 and 0.309 for GSTP1, respectively. Among patients the GSTP1 mutated allele was more frequent in those drinking more than 50 g ethanol/day (odds ratio: 2.00; 95% confidence intervals: 1.06-3.78). Age at diagnosis, gender, tobacco use and hepatitis B and C viral status did not influence these results.

CONCLUSION
We conclude that the studied polymorphisms affecting GSTP1, GSTA1 and GSTM3 genes are probably not related to the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in the studied population.


Histories of Early Modern religion in Europe typically contrast the activities of ordained theologians with those of laity. The thought and writings of the former usually constitute "theology" and those of the latter "piety." The result has long been a divided history. Confessional church historians have written histories that were essentially genealogies of (male) officer holders, while scholars of folklore, culture or literature analyzed the contributions of laity. Since the so-called cultural turn, the contributions of laity as organizers, transmitters and patrons of Early Modern religious movements are being recognized. What has been less studied are the intellectual achievements of laity, many of whom possessed deep knowledge of theology, history, and ancient languages and played important roles in Early Modern religious history. This article provides an overview of the main issues and the development of lay theology in the period and argues for increased study of the phenomenon.


Foreign Direct Investment in Brazil: Post-Crisis Economic Development in Emerging Markets explores both the inward and outward ways foreign direct investment (FDI) can help Brazil sustain economic growth and development in the sometimes hostile post-global crisis era. Inward and outward FDI have major roles to play in reviving Brazil's growth momentum and the country's transition to a new growth paradigm less dependent on commodity exports. The book provides a comprehensive discussion on the analytical framework of FDI and the policy environment influencing the patterns and development of FDI in Brazil. It compares Brazil to other developing countries, but its focus rests on how, and to what extent, the global crisis is shaping the Brazilian institutional environment and its implications for FDI.Covers an important contemporary development issue focusing on the experience of one of the fastest growing and largest emerging economies in the worldPresents econometric findings using data at different levels of aggregationProvides an in-depth study on the determinants of FDI and their relations to institutionsExplores both the inward and outward ways foreign direct investment (FDI) can help Brazil sustain economic growth and development in the sometimes hostile post-global crisis era


Austroaeschna Selys and Notoaeschna Tillyard are briefly redefined and the species of both genera are reviewed. A new genus, Spinaeschna, is erected, with the species previously known as Austroaeschna tripunctata (Martin) as type-species. Six new species, Austroaeschna muelleri, sp. nov., A. obscura, sp. nov., A. sigma, sp. nov., A. subapicalis, sp. nov., Notoaeschna geminata, sp. nov., and Spinaeschna watsoni, sp. nov., are described from imagines and larvae. It is established that Austroaeschna longissima (Martin) and Austroaeschna speciosa Sjostedt are junior synonyms of Austroaeschna uiitcornis (Martin), and that the correct name of A. unicornis sensu Martin (1909) and all later authors is A. pulchra Tillyard. A. speciosa is a northern subspecies of A. unicornis. The hitherto undescribed females of Austroaeschna flavomaculata Tillyard, A. multipunctata (Martin) and A. unicornis speciosa Sjostedt, as well as the previously unknown larvae of Austroaeschna atrata Martin, A. flavomaculata Tillyard, A. forcipata (Tillyard), A. multipunctata (Martin), A. unicornis speciosa Sjostedt, A. weiskei Forster) and Notoaeschna sagittata (Martin) are described and figured, and further details are given for other species. The infraspecific structure of some species is discussed briefly and illustrated. Lectotypes are designated for Austroaeschna aspersa Martin, A. atrata Martin, Dromaeschna weiskei Forster, Planaeschna longissima Martin, P. multipunctata Martin, P. sagittata Martin and P. tripunctata Martin. The adults and larvae of species of Austroaeschna are keyed, and those of Notoaeschna and Spinaeschna are compared.


This study examines both types of the legal system of electronic publishing which are the protective and organized types, and it draws the frame of the relationship between the author, reader and publisher, as stipulated in the License Agreement. This study focused on clarifying the elements of license agreement to protect rights of partners, and also examined obstacles of Electronic Publishing. Moreover, the study examined the Moral and Financial Rights and obligations resulting from Electronic Publishing, and also the legal tools that accompanied technical development in areas of Informatics, and the laws and regulations drafted to protect Moral and Financial rights of the author in Electronic Publishing.


Suicide is a major public health problem in Canada. Suicide deaths affect society by consuming both human lives and economic resources. The present study estimates the economic impact of suicide deaths that occurred in New Brunswick in 1996, using the human capital approach. For the 94 suicide deaths reported, direct costs for health care services, autopsies, funerals and police investigations were $535,158.32. Indirect costs, which estimate the value of lost productivity due to premature death, had the largest economic value, of $79,353,354.56. The mean total cost estimate per suicide death in 1996 was $849,877.80. Although the most significant impact of a suicide death remains the loss of a human life, these results indicate that the economic cost of this public health tragedy in New Brunswick is also great. To our knowledge, this report provides the first complete cost-of-suicide analysis performed in a Canadian province.


The aim of the study is to present the spectrum of vascular
procedures carried out at our department during the years 2003
to 2005. In the carotid region there were 185 operations for
carotid stenosis (144 men, 41 women, average age 65.9 years).
Carotid endarterectomy with venous (86) or prosthetic (77)
patch angioplasty was the most frequent procedure. In 20 % an
intraluminal shunt was used. There were 6 strokes (3.24 %) in
the perioperative period. Five patients were operated for
vascular injury. There were no infectious complications. We did
39 thrombembolectomies in the upper extremities (15 men, 24
women, average age 74 years). Two women were operated for the
thoracic outlet syndrome, three men for the subclavian steal
syndrome. Six patients were operated for injury of the brachial
or antebrachial vessels. There were no infectious
complications. During the studied years 383 arteriovenous
fistulas for hemodialysis were established (232 according to
Brescia-Cimino, 144 cubital shunts). In 49 cases thrombectomy
was done. We solved 4 infections (2 native shunts, 2
prosthetic), with the incidence of 0.78 %. For aortic aneuryms,
118 men and 17 women were operated (107 electively, 28
urgently). There was no perioperative death. Furthermore, 144
patients were operated for atherosclerotic occlusive disease.
In 24 cases we solved anastomotic pseudoaneurysm in the groin.
Thirty-five thrombectomies were done. In 13 patients vascular
prosthetic infection was treated, 9 of them being implanted
before 2003. The incidence rate is 1.46 %. In 227 patients (180
men, 47 women, average age 61.3 years) femoropopliteal bypass
was implanted, 141 of them using autologous vein. In 72 cases
the lower anastomosis was situated below the knee. In 17
patients short supra-infra genu venous bypass was implanted for
popliteal artery aneurysm. Fortyone profundoplasties and 30
anastomotic repairs were carried out. We also solved 41
postpunctional groin injuries. Furthermore, 117 thrombectomies
were done. In 4 cases bypass infection was treated; the
incidence rate is 0.88 %. In the femur-distal region 18 crural
bypasses (17 venous, 1 prosthetic) were implanted, with a
distal anastomosis to the posterior tibial artery in 16 cases.
Thirty-six pedal reconstructions (33 venous, 3 composite
grafts) were implanted, distal anastomosis to dorsal pedal
artery in 27 cases. In 22 patients the arteries were
insufficient for reconstruction. We also did 29 crural
thrombembolectomies. One pedal infection was solved (bypass
implanted in 2002). During the 3 years we did 39 lumbar
sympathectomies, 25 perioperative angioplasties (10 in the
iliac, 15 in the femoral region) and 17 extra-anatomic
econstructions. From the 220 amputations 92 were localised to
the foot, 13 were crural and 101 femoral amputations and 9 hip
exarticulations; primary amputation rate is 25.6 %. We
summarise that both the spectrum and the results of our
operations are fully comparable with other vascular surgical
centres.


Core-based IC design introduces more test challenges, especially in an open design environment. Macro test is an effective test strategy. However, the measurement of plenitude of transfers and effects which crucially affects the test protocol expansion remains a problem, and the high-level abstraction of description of cores contributes to this measurement difficulty. In this paper, transparentability is defined to represent the ability that a core can be treated as transparent to the core-under-test in test phase. Then some measuring factors of it independent of circuit structure are proposed. They are further classified into transparentability level 1 and level 2. The two levels of transparentability may be used as a common measurement, even if the core is described in RT level or higher abstraction level, and they are not limited to be used in macro test. The differences between transparentability and conventional testability are also discussed.


Abstract Off-label use of dalbavancin for deep-seated and endovascular infections has been increasing. We performed a scoping review to evaluate the evidence for use of multiple-dose dalbavancin regimens as the predominant therapy for these indications. Predominant therapy was defined as use of dalbavancin without other concurrent antibiotics for more than half of the total treatment duration. Fifteen publications were identified; 2 were small, open-label randomized controlled trials and the remainder were retrospective observational studies or case reports. A total of 144 cases from these publications met eligibility criteria for inclusion in this review. Types of infections included osteoarticular infections, catheter-related or complicated bloodstream infections, and infective endocarditis. Overall, the evidence for use of multiple-dose regimens of dalbavancin for deep-seated and endovascular infections is limited by a paucity of data from controlled trials, heterogeneity of dosing regimens, and a lack of standardized clinical outcomes.


This paper deals with the word-formation of Mayakovsky's neologisms, the principles of their composition and also the objects subjected to neologization. Attention is also paid to the Nachleben of these neologisms in contemporary Russian, based on the research into the Russian National Corpus. The paper is a result of the analysis of all Mayakovsky's neologisms listed in A. Humesky's book Majakovskij and His Neologisms (1964), except for those originated by the simple connection of two words or word components. The results were compared with the most recent work dealing with Mayakovsky's neologisms, V. N. Valavin's dictionary (Word-formation of Mayakovsky. An Attempt at a Dictionary of Occasiоnalisms). It is argued that the main word-formation principle is that of composition (substantives and adjectives) and suffixation (verbs), that even today many neologisms show surprising vitality, and also that not all of the neologisms ascribed to Mayakovsky are indeed his authorial creations.


Introduction There is increasing interest in assessing outcomes from emergency laparotomy in the UK, and implementing care bundles to improve them. This follows on from work from the National Emergency Laparotomy Network suggesting that laparotomy mortality rates are at a level that would be 'unthinkable' from elective surgery (average 14.9% mortality). It noted variability in presence of consultant surgeons and anaesthetists at the surgery and related this to possible variations in mortality. In the knowledge that consultant presence at laparotomy is extremely high at our busy District General Hospital, research was carried out into the factors influencing the survival of the emergency laparotomy patients. Method A prospective database was created of 144 consecutive laparotomy patients, using local hospital and NELA data. The following factors were ascertained: grade of surgeon and anaesthetist, deprivation score, day of week of surgery, time of day of surgery, ASA grade, postoperative P-POSSUM predicted mortality (combining operative severity score and preoperative physiology), length of stay, 30-day mortality. Survival was ascertained using Kaplan-Meier analysis, with univariate analysis by log-rank test and then multivariate analysis performed using Cox Proportional Hazards Analysis. Results 100% of patients were operated on by consultant surgeons and 95% had a consultant anaesthetist presence. The 30-day mortality rate seen overall was 17.4%. It was notable that the mean P-POSSUM score for the patients was 17.2%. 50% were aged over 65. Of note even on univariate analysis, time of day of operation and weekday versus weekend were not significant predictors of mortality. On multivariate analysis, P-POSSUM score, ASA grade and age remained independent predictors of emergency laparotomy mortality. Conclusion Even in a series of patients operated on exclusively by consultants, mortality is close to the national average. It is likely that strong influences on this are the severity of patient physiology and severity of operation, seen in the striking similarity of mean P-POSSUM and observed mortality in these patients, and its independence on multivariate analysis. As expected, age is also an independent factor. Further work will be carried out to see if any remediable factors could be contributing. Disclosure of interest None Declared.


A new image enlargement method for the estimation of high frequency image components lost in the sampling process is proposed. The method uses a codebook consisting of the low- and high-frequency components of an original image itself that is to be enlarged. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by comparing with conventional methods.


Five new naturally occurring abietane diterpenoids (1-5) along with three known diterpenoids (6-8) were isolated from an acetone-soluble extract of the roots of Clerodendrum bungei. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and chemical methods. In addition, all compounds were evaluated for cytotoxic activity against the cultured B16 (murine melanoma), HGC-27 (human gastric), and HEK-293 (human epithelial kidney) cell lines. Uncinatone (7) exhibited moderate cytotoxicity, inhibited cell proliferation, and induced cell-cycle G(2)/M phase arrest.


We construct merger trees of dark matter haloes and quantify their merger rates and mass growth rates using the joint data set from the Millennium and Millennium-II simulations. The finer resolution of the Millennium-II simulation has allowed us to extend our earlier analysis of halo merger statistics to an unprecedentedly wide range of descendant halo mass (10 10 ≲ M 0 ≲ 10 15 M ⊙ ), progenitor mass ratio (10 -5 ≲ ξ ≤ 1) and redshift (0 ≤ z ≲ 15). We update our earlier fitting form for the mean merger rate per halo as a function of M 0 , ξ and z. The overall behaviour of this quantity is unchanged: the rate per unit redshift is nearly independent of z out to z ~ 15; the dependence on halo mass is weak (∝ Mg 0.13 0 ); and it is nearly a power law in the progenitor mass ratio (∝ ξ -2 ). We also present a simple and accurate fitting formula for the mean mass growth rate of haloes as a function of mass and redshift. This mean rate is 46 M ⊙ yr -1 for 10 12 M ⊙ haloes at z = 0, and it increases with mass as ∝ M 1.1 and with redshift as (1 + z) 2.5 (for z ≳ 1). When the fit for the mean mass growth rate is integrated over a halo's history, we find excellent match to the mean mass assembly histories of the simulated haloes. By combining merger rates and mass assembly histories, we present results for the number of mergers over a halo's history and the statistics of the redshift of the last major merger.


Increasingly complex ASIC and FPGA chips require you to shift from schematic-based design to design based on Verilog or VHDL. Understanding the basics of these languages and how you use them for designing ASICs and FPGAs will help you go with the HDL flow. In recent years, designers have increasingly adopted top-down design methodologies that lead them away from logicand transistor-level design to abstract programming. The introduction of industry-standard HDLs and the existence of commercially available synthesis tools have helped establish this revolutionary design methodology. The advantages of this methodology are clear, causing a change in IC engineering-design methods. The advantages of HDL-based design include: increased productivity yields, shorter development cycles, more product features, and reduced ●


Donald Berry in his recent editorial (1) regarding the role of CYP2D6 and tamoxifen highlights several controversies that exist in the clinical and biomarker field for women with breast cancer. The International Tamoxifen Pharmacogenomics Consortium (ITPC) was formed with the intent to aggregate, curate, and analyze the data available in published breast cancer studies with the hope of answering the question, "Should CYP2D6 genotyping guide the use of tamoxifen in breast cancer?" The ITPC analyzed nearly 5000 patients regarding the association between CYP2D6 and clinical outcomes (2). These data demonstrated that CYP2D6 genotype was associated with the risk of recurrence or death in those patients who received tamoxifen monotherapy for 5 years but not in patients who received different doses or duration of tamoxifen or those who received chemotherapy along with tamoxifen. We are in agreement with Berry that further research is required to understand these complex relationships, and our intent has always been that others will be able to use the ITPC dataset to understand the data as fully as possible in conjunction with their own research efforts. The complete dataset of genotypes and clinical variables, the analysis code, and the full analyses are transparently available at PharmGKB (http://www.pharmgkb. org). Although we disagree with Berry about his conclusion in answering the allimportant question of whether CYP2D6guided genotype therapy is appropriate, we invite other researchers and practitioners to examine the data from their own perspectives and engage in ongoing efforts to use these data to the benefit of patients with breast cancer.


Abstract:  Bio-terrorism is not a new term for scientists. Post 9/11 the United States of America, as well as other countries which have grown well economically and countries undergoing the metamorphosis to developed nations, are under serious threat of bio-terrorism. This has led to the development of the software CARVER + Shock by Sandia National Laboratories and Food and Drug Administration (FDA), specifically for risk assessment and protection mechanism in the entire food supply chain from farm to table. This software requires training on the software front and interaction with industry people to chalk out a plan to safeguard the premises and the supply chain of the food products in the industry manufacturing. Such efforts should be well highlighted and advertised among food processing professionals, educators, students, and those government agencies concerning the food safety issues. Everyone must look at this software as this is going to be the future of food processing safety. This system works like Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points and can be integrated for total quality management of the concerned industry. Our study has highlighted the application of this software in various food industries showing its strength and weaknesses.


Some members of root-associated Bacillus species have been developed as biocontrol agents due to their contribution to plant protection by directly interfering with the growth of pathogens or by stimulating systemic resistance in their host. As rhizosphere-dwelling bacteria, these bacilli are surrounded and constantly interacting with other microbes via different types of communications. With this review, we provide an updated vision of the molecular and phenotypic responses of Bacillus upon sensing other rhizosphere microorganisms and/or their metabolites. We illustrate how Bacillus spp. may react by modulating the production of secondary metabolites, such as cyclic lipopeptides or polyketides. On the other hand, some developmental processes, such as biofilm formation, motility, and sporulation may also be modified upon interaction, reflecting the adaptation of Bacillus multicellular communities to microbial competitors for preserving their ecological persistence. This review also points out the limited data available and a global lack of knowledge indicating that more research is needed in order to, not only better understand the ecology of bacilli in their natural soil niche, but also to better assess and improve their promising biocontrol potential.


For the first time, a realistic microscopic calculation for low-energy neutron-nucleus elastic scattering off open-shell nuclei is carried out within the framework of particle-vibration coupling (PVC). In this study, the pairing correlations of the ground state are taken into account. The dependence of the angular distributions on the pairing gaps have been discussed.


AIMS
Cystitis, a rare adverse effect of systematically administered drugs, was first reported to be associated with a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug, tiaprofenic acid, in 1991. Similar reports of adverse effect of tiaprofenic acid were received by a number of national drug monitoring centres. It was therefore decided to investigate the frequency of cystitis associated with tiaprofenic acid and to see whether this association is typical of tiaprofenic acid or also occurs with other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs.

METHODS
The Medicines Adverse Reaction Monitoring Centre has been monitoring drug related events/reactions since 1965. An analysis of the spontaneous adverse reaction reports received at this centre during the period 1965-92 was carried out.

RESULTS
Haemorrhagic cystitis was reported to be associated with tiaprofenic acid (n = 3) and indomethacin (n = 3). In addition 11 other reports of haematuria (not associated with any coagulopathy and/or hepatic disorders) in relation to other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, naproxen and piroxicam were received. Five patients who were rechallenged with the suspect drug, suffered from recurrence of cystitis/haematuria.

CONCLUSIONS
In addition to tiaprofenic acid, cystitis appears to be associated with indomethacin and possibly also with other nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. An allergic or immunological mechanism is probably responsible for this reaction. Although our centre received the first report of cystitis in relation to indomethacin in 1966, judging by the number of reports received, this association appears to be poorly recognised.


Background The Phase II/III APRIL-SLE study evaluated the safety and efficacy of atacicept in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The goal of this post-hoc analysis was to use cell-based gene signatures on the APRIL-SLE gene expression data to identify clusters of patients with potential to flare and to assess for difference in treatment effect of atacicept vs placebo. Methods A published immune cell deconvolution algorithm was applied to whole-blood gene expression data from APRIL-SLE to identify relative proportions of 17 immune cell types. Patients were then grouped into clusters based on these immune cell profiles using a k-medoid clustering algorithm, and were compared to each other based on patient characteristics, biomarkers and clinical efficacy. In addition, the baseline expression and change in expression of putative APRIL-responder genes were compared among the clusters. APRIL-responder genes were identified by combining differential expression results from the APRIL-SLE study (Week 52 vs. Day 1 randomization) and tabalumab Phase III studies (Week 52 vs. Baseline; GSE88887). Results Patient gene expression data (N=105; Placebo: N=30; atacicept 75 mg: N=40; atacicept 150 mg N=35) was used to group patients into 5 main clusters (P1-P5) by predominant characteristic cells: P1, T helper cells; P2, plasma cells; P3, neutrophils and B cells; P4, B cells; P5, activated dendritic cells. Patients in P2 and P5 were more likely to have positive anti-dsDNA antibodies (≥30 IU/ml) and elevated BLyS (≥1.6 ng/ml), as well as high IFN gene signature in the blood. Patients in P2 were more likely to have low complement C3 and C4 levels. In P2, P4, and P5 clusters the flare rate in the placebo group was significantly higher than in P1 and P3. In P2 and P4, atacicept 150mg treatment group showed delayed time to flare and reduced flare rate as compared with the placebo group. A comparison of differentially-expressed genes from clinical studies of SLE patients on atacicept (targets BLyS & APRIL) vs tabalumab (targets BLyS) revealed possible APRIL-responder genes: SDC1, PARM1 and MZB1. These genes have a higher baseline expression in the P2 and P4 compared to other clusters. SDC1 was reduced more in P2, P4, and P5 after atacicept treatment, while PARM1 and MZB1 decreased after atacicept treatment in P2 and P4. Conclusions These post-hoc analyses revealed different subsets of SLE patients based on their molecular profiles, which identified patient subsets that might have differential treatment effect of atacicept vs placebo, and provided insights into potential mechanisms of flare. Funding Source(s): Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany


Competencies known variously as "soft" or "21st century skills" are increasingly linked to college students' academic and career success, and faculty with industry experience are hypothesized to be uniquely qualified to teach these skills. Yet little research exists on this topic. In this paper, we report findings from a mixed-methods study of the degree to which industry experience influences how faculty in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine teach teamwork, oral and written communication, problem-solving, and self-directed learning skills in 2and 4-year postsecondary institutions. Using inductive thematic and hierarchical linear modeling techniques to analyze survey (n=1,140) and interview (n=89) data, we find that faculty place relatively low emphasis on these skills, but that industry experience is significantly associated with teaching oral communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Other factors, including race and perceptions of departmental teaching norms, also influenced skills-focused instruction. Industry experience also informed problem-based learning activities, knowledge of desired workplace skills, and a focus on divergent thinking. Given that industry experience is an important, but not the only influence on skills-focused instruction, policies aimed solely at hiring faculty with industry experience will be of limited utility without a corresponding focus on training in teaching and instructional design. How, If at All, Does Industry Experience Influence how Faculty Teach Cognitive, Inter-, and Intrapersonal Skills in the College Classroom? Matthew T. Hora and Changhee Lee


The impact of camera separation on the performance of an H.264/ AVC-based stereo-vision codec is investigated. To achieve this, the H.264/AVC software has been modified to support stereoscopic video coding. Results were generated using two sets of wide baseline convergent multi-view test videos: Breakdancers and Ballet. To generate a set of synchronised stereo-videos from the same scene with different inter-camera angles, all possible camera pairs are generated and classified according to their inter-camera angles. The resulting sets of stereo-videos are coded using a H.264/AVC-based stereo-vision and simulcast codecs. Results indicate that the stereo-vision codec outperforms the simulcast coding at lower inter-camera angles. Finally, a range of inter-camera angles for best use of either stereo-vision or simulcast coding is determined.


Load distribution in deep groove ball bearing has been studied in this work. A deep groove ball bearing model is proposed basing on geometry specific measurement. Two approaches (finite element method and semi-analytical) have been used to determine the distribution of an external radial force applied. These two approaches have been compared in terms of computation time and precision. At the second point, a deformable complex bearing housing has been integrated in the FEM ball bearing model to assess the influence of its deformation on load distribution.


This article examines barriers to the principle of equal remuneration for work of equal value in Japan, reviewing impediments to the implementation of the International Labour Organisation's Equal Remuneration Convention, and assessing whether the 2018 Work Style Reform Act–which seeks to reduce pay disparities between regular and non-regular workers through a Japanese version of 'equal pay for equal work'–provides an alternative avenue through which stronger notions of work value and equality might become integrated into Japanese wage-setting norms and practices. This has implications for the gender pay gap, which could be addressed more effectively within a regulatory framework recognising equal pay for equal (value) work as a legal norm, as well as narrowed indirectly through improving remuneration for non-regular workers (the majority of whom are women). The analysis highlights the limits of the new legislative measures, arguing that in spite of some potential for improving pay for non-regular workers, they lack important features conducive to the pursuit of gender pay equality, in particular non-biased concepts of value, effective job evaluation models and a more inclusive gender/human rights perspective.


Objectives Genetic characterization of HIV-1 subtypes among immigrants and natives infected overseas. Methods Phylogenetic analysis of HIV-1 protease sequences obtained from 109 foreigners (mainly Africans) and 32 native individuals infected overseas attending a reference HIV/AIDS centre located in Madrid, Spain. Results The overall rate of infection with HIV-1 non-B subtypes was 50.3% (71/141). Whereas 94.3% (67/71) belonged to immigrants (mostly Africans, 60/67), only 5.6% (4/71) were from native individuals (P < 0.05). The distribution of non-B subtypes was: 49 G, eight C, six A, four D, two F and two H. The high prevalence of subtype G was mainly related to individuals from west-central Africa. Interestingly, substitutions at three or more positions associated with protease inhibitor (PI) resistance were recognized in 52.6% of naive subjects carrying non-B subtypes, but only in 8% of those infected with B viruses (P < 0.05). The genotypes most frequently recognized among non-B and B subtypes occurred, respectively, at positions 36 (100 versus 12%), 20 (77.2 versus 0%), 63 (40.3 versus 64%), 82 (17.5 versus 0%), 10 (14 versus 12%), 77 (3.5 versus 34%), and 71 (0 versus 2%). Accordingly, changes I-36 and I-20 may be considered specific genetic markers for non-B, group M variants and subtype G infections, respectively. Conclusion Nearly two-thirds of foreigners with HIV-1 infection in Madrid carry non-B subtypes, subtype G (protease) being the most common among west-central African immigrants. The high rate of natural polymorphisms at the protease gene in non-B viruses may compromise the response to PI. Therefore, HIV subtyping should be considered in treatment guidelines.


Based on the tropical cyclone track data in the northwest Pacific Ocean from 2015 to 2020, meteorological observation data, and ozone concentration monitoring data in the Pearl River Delta (PRD), the impacts of four tropical cyclones, namely the westbound tropical cyclone (type A), East China Sea tropical cyclone (type B), offshore tropical cyclone (type C), and offshore tropical cyclone (type D), on ozone concentration in the PRD were analyzed. The results showed that:under the influence of the type A tropical cyclone, the risk of regional ozone concentration exceeding the standard exhibited little change. Under the influence of the type B tropical cyclone, the risk of ozone exceeding the standard in the PRD was obviously increased. Under the influence of the type C tropical cyclone, the risk of regional ozone exceeding the standard obviously increased, but the increase was weaker than that of the type B tropical cyclone. The type D tropical cyclone was far away from the Chinese mainland and had little influence on ozone concentration in the PRD. When the type A or type C tropical cyclones occurred, the average daily maximum 8-hour average ozone concentration (MDA8) in the PRD region increased by approximately 5 μg·m-3, and the ozone MDA8 in some cities may have decreased. When the type B tropical cyclone occurred, the regional ozone MDA8 increased by 19 μg·m-3 on average, and the ozone concentration in all cities increased significantly. Among them, the average increase in ozone MDA8 in Zhuhai and Jiangmen was relatively large, with an increase of greater than 20 μg·m-3. Generally speaking, the ozone concentration in cities in the western PRD was more affected by tropical cyclones. When the type B tropical cyclone occurred, solar radiation increased, sunshine duration lengthened, cloud cover decreased, air temperature rose, and relative humidity decreased in the PRD, all of which were beneficial to photochemical reactions. Meanwhile, downward flow increased in the boundary layer, and downward flow transported high-concentration ozone to the ground, which promoted the increase in ozone concentration on the ground. When type A or type C tropical cyclones occurred, the change in meteorological conditions was not entirely conducive to the increase in ozone concentration, and in some cases, even adverse meteorological conditions such as rainfall occurred, which led to the risk of regional ozone exceeding the standard being less than that of the type B tropical cyclone. Affected by tropical cyclones, sunshine hours and air temperature in western cities of the PRD increased more than those in eastern cities, which was more conducive to ozone generation.


Most engineers need a basic understanding of quan- tum mechanics, and for this the typical college introduction is enough. Such an introduction tends to be axiomatic but physically unenlightening. The rules of quantum mechanics (QM) are a fait accompli; justified because they work. This is a good begin- ning, but those needing to learn more face a special quantum barrier: more advanced texts often continue in the axiomatic tradition. Infinite-dimensional spaces, amplitude vectors, ma- trices, and operators in lieu of momentum and energy—these and other concepts may be introduced with little rationalization or intuition. To an inquiring student, QM can quickly become bizarre; something to be manipulated but not understood. This need not be so. Here we present one teaching solution. We show that many of QM's key ideas can be reasoned out from just a few physical assumptions with mathematics that is low in dimension, linear, and accessible to many. Some results include a simple reason for believing probability amplitudes are more natural to use than probabilities, the duality of functions as vectors and vice versa, an example of how a matrix, an operator, and a physical value might be related, the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, and Schrodinger's equation.


Tech mining is an analytical method of technology monitoring that can reveal technology trends in different industries. Patent databases are the major sources for information retrieval by tech mining methods. The majority of the commercially viable research and development results in the world can be found in patents. The time and cost of research and development can greatly be reduced if researchers properly analyze patents of prior arts. Appropriate analyses of patents also help firms avoid patent infringement while simultaneously developing new products or services. The main path analysis is a bibliometric method which can be used to derive the most dominant paths in a citation network of patents or academic works and has widely been adopted in tracing the development trajectory of a specific science or technology. Even though main path analysis can derive patent citation relationships and the weight associated with some specific arc of the citation network, the weights associated with patents and influence relationships among patents can hardly be derived based on methods of main path analysis. However, these influence relationships and weight can be crucial for defining research and development and patent aggregation strategies. Thus, the authors want to propose a novel analytic framework which consists of the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL), the DEMATEL based Analytic Network Process (DANP) and the main path analysis. The proposed analytic framework can be used to derive the influence relationships and influence weights associated with the patents in a main path. Empirical cases based on the main path of a published work and the patent mining results of nanowire field effect transistors from the database of the United States Patent and Trademark Office will be used to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed analytic framework. The analytic results of empirical research can be used as a basis for infringement evaluation, patent designing around and innovation.


The measurement, analysis and theory of primary photocurrent in transistors are discussed. Techniques for calculating or predicting primary photocurrent from pre-irradiation measurements are developed. For transistors driven into saturation by high-intensity pulses of gamma radiation, a radiation storage time is defined. A method for predicting radiation storage time entirely from non-radiation parameters is developed.


The aberrant metabolism of tumor cells creates an inimitable microenvironment featuring acidic pH, high glutathione (GSH) levels, and overexpression of certain enzymes, which benefits the overwhelming progress of a tumor. Peptide self-assembly, emerging as a biofriendly and versatile fabrication strategy, harnesses multiple noncovalent interactions to obtain a variety of nanostructures tailored on demand. Orchestrating the reversible nature of noncovalent interactions and abnormal physiological parameters in the tumor microenvironment enables peptide-based nanodrugs to be targetable or switchable, thereby improving the drugs' bioavailability and optimizing the treatment outcome. This review will focus on peptide-modulated self-assembly of photosensitizers, chemotherapeutic drugs, immunoactive agents for tumor microenvironment-oriented adaptive phototherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and combinatorial therapy. We will emphasize the building block design, the intermolecular interaction principle, adaptive structural transformation in the tumor microenvironment and corresponding therapeutic efficacy, and aim to elucidate the critical role of peptide-modulated, tumor microenvironment-oriented adaptive assemblies in improving the therapeutic index. Challenges and opportunities will be covered as well to advance the development and clinical application of tumor therapies based on peptide self-assembly materials and techniques.


Combining ceramic membranes with ozonation and allowing ozone residual to contact the membrane surface is well known to control fouling, allowing for higher membrane fluxes. This means that the more robust, longer lasting and higher integrity ceramic material can potentially be used in water recycling in a cost competitive way. This paper presents additional results from a previously reported ozonation/ceramic membrane trial in Melbourne, Australia. The results assisted in understanding the cause of the high fluxes by quenching the residual ozone upstream of the membrane, to isolate its effects on organic species from those on the membrane. Ozone quenching was directly attributed to lost membrane performance which confirmed that ozone has a direct effect on the membrane which contributes to the higher fluxes. Tests to reduce cleaning chemical use (sodium hypochlorite) at high fluxes were also conducted. Sodium hypochlorite consumption generally was not significant, but trading better stability and higher fluxes for reduced chemical use needs to be justified. Ceramic membranes coupled with pre-ozonation exhibit unique properties in water treatment, offering potential advantages such as increased backwash disinfection, as well as higher flux rates or reduced chemical consumption.


ObjectiveDelayed graft function is a frequent complication after kidney transplantation impacting aversely on graft survival. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic value of quantitative scintigraphic parameters immediately after transplantation in this population. MethodsOne hundred patients with renal transplants suffering from delayed graft function were included in this study. All patients underwent 99mTc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine renal scintigraphy within 72 h of transplantation and were followed for 1 year. Various isotopic parameters were evaluated based on time–activity curves for angiographic and tubular phases. Threshold values for each parameter were derived from receiver operating characteristic curves to study their predictive values for transplant success at 1 year. ResultsMean values of the Kirchner index, tubular function slope, graft/aorta perfusion ratio, or graft uptake/perfusion ratio were significantly higher in successfully grafted patients (P<0.05). The Kirchner index yielded the largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (0.75). The tubular function slope (odds ratio>1.4) was found to be an independent prognostic factor for 1-year renal graft failure. ConclusionOur study confirms the prognostic value of vascular parameters in renal transplants, especially the Kirchner index whose negative predictive value was more than 90% for kidney transplantation 1-year success. In addition, isotopic parameters assessing the nephronic functional mass or the functional renal reserve seemed to be relevant prognostic tools with respect to 1-year outcomes. Therefore, the assessment of vascularization and renal function using an early 99mTc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine renal scintigraphy seems to be a powerful tool in establishing 1-year prognosis of renal allografts.


Biodiesel is a fuel derived from renewable sources suitable for use in conventional compress ion-ignition engines. The use of biodiesel is being promoted in many countries through government incentives and targets, and the production of biodiesel is increasing worldwide. As it is derived from renewable feedstocks, lifeCYCle C02 emissions are reduced when petrodiesel usage is displaced by biodiesel usage. Biodiesel is produced through the transesterification reaction of triglycerides with methanol. Typically, this reaction is carried out at 60 'C, in a batch reactor with an excess of methanol and a homogeneous sodium hydroxide catalyst. The products are biodiesel and glycerol. Following the reaction, the sodium hydroxide must be neutralized and the resulting salt is contained in the glycerol phase, making it difficult to purify the glycerol to phan-naceutical grade to sell as a by-product. Additionally, sodium hydroxide can cause unwanted side-reactions to form soap, through the saponification of triglycerides and the neutralization of free fatty acids present in cheaper feedstocks, resulting in a loss of yield. Therefore, it is desirable to replace sodium hydroxide with a heterogeneous catalyst. Potential heterogeneous catalysts were evaluated for their activity in the transesterification reaction, and their stability in the reaction environment. Alkali-doped metal oxides and silica-supported guanidines were found to be active, with conversions of >90% reached in 3 hours. This reaction time is feasible for use on an industrial scale. There was a strong correlation between base strength and activity: only catalysts with strong base sites were active. Unfortunately, the catalysts were found to leach and lost activity on repeated use. Thus, in their current form, these catalysts would not be suitable heterogeneous catalysts for biodiesel production because the advantages of using a heterogeneous catalyst are lost if the catalyst leaches. Amberlyst 26, a quaternary ammonium functionalized polystyrene resin was found to be stable, but only 8% conversion was obtained after 3 hours of reaction. This low activity was attributed to internal diffusion limitations.


Streptococcus pyogenes frequently causes
purulent infections in humans. Biofilm formation is an important virulence
property of S. pyogenes because of decreased susceptibility of bacteria to antibiotic
treatment. Biofilm is composed of various types of matrix including glycocalyx
which is an important exocellular matrix material related to bacterial sugar
metabolism. A putative antiterminator protein, LicT (Spy0571), is one of the
components of the glucose-independent β-gluco-side-specific phosphotransferase
system (PTS). Although the PTS, a carbohydrate metabolic system, may play a
role in biofilm formation, the relationship between LicT and biofilm formation
has not yet been elucidated. Here, we evaluated whether LicT affected biofilm
formation in modified chemically defined medium (CDMM) supplemented with
glucose or β-glucoside:salicin. We created licT- and licT-complemented mutant
strains from S. pyogenes 1529. Although the licT mutant strain tended to have
higher growth rate than wild-typestrain in CDMM with glucose, it had a significant
lower growth rate than the wild-type strain in CDMM with salicin. In addition,
the licT mutant exhibited lower biofilm formation in CDMM containing salicin
than the wild-type strain by 96 well plate analysis and confocal laser scanning
microscopic analysis. Our results suggest that LicT plays an important role in
biofilm formation of S. pyogenes.


This study investigates a linear homogeneous initial-boundary value problem for a traveling string under linear viscous damping. The string is assumed to be traveling with constant speed, while it is fixed at both ends. Physically, this problem represents the vertical (lateral) vibrations of damped axially moving materials. The axial belt speed is taken to be positive, constant and small in comparison with a wave speed, and the damping is also considered relatively small. A two timescale perturbation method together with the characteristic coordinate's method will be employed to establish the approximate analytic solutions. The damped amplitude-response of the system will be computed under specific initial conditions. The obtained results are compared with the finite difference numerical technique for justification. It turned out that the introduced damping has a significant effect on the amplitude-response. Additionally, it is proven that the mode-truncation is applicable for the damped axially traveling string system on a timescale of order ε -1


Computing grasps for an object is challenging when the object geometry is not known precisely. In this paper, we explore the use of Gaussian process implicit surfaces (GPISs) to represent shape uncertainty from RGBD point cloud observations of objects. We study the use of GPIS representations to select grasps on previously unknown objects, measuring grasp quality by the probability of force closure. Our main contribution is GP-GPIS-OPT, an algorithm for computing grasps for parallel-jaw grippers on 2D GPIS object representations. Specifically, our method optimizes an approximation to the probability of force closure subject to antipodal constraints on the parallel jaws using Sequential Convex Programming (SCP). We also introduce GPIS-Blur, a method for visualizing 2D GPIS models based on blending shape samples from a GPIS. We test the algorithm on a set of 8 planar objects with transparency, translucency, and specularity. Our experiments suggest that GP-GPIS-OPT computes grasps with higher probability of force closure than a planner that does not consider shape uncertainty on our test objects and may converge to a grasp plan up to 5.7×faster than using Monte-Carlo integration, a common method for grasp planning under shape uncertainty. Furthermore, initial experiments on the Willow Garage PR2 robot suggest that grasps selected with GP-GPIS-OPT are up to 90% more successful than those planned assuming a deterministic shape. Our dataset, code, and videos of our experiments are available at http://rll.berkeley.edu/icra2015grasping/.


Physicians are dedicated to countering death. The new technologies of medicine focus on this end. Therefore, heart transplants, intrauterine surgery, and possible tissue transplants from fetal brains to injured brains are among issues at the frontier of medicine. The focus on finding a cure is so pervasive that the physician comes to regard death as a medical failure rather than a natural event. When Barney Clark died, his mechanical heart went on beating. This book does not focus on medicine's treatment approaches to counter death but on attitudes and social customs prevalent in regarding death. Many physicians in emphasizing technical issues are less prepared to deal with these facets. It is pointed out in the book that until the beginning of this century, death took place in the home with all family members present and participating, at times even building the coffin. The physician was almost peripheral. Today, the role


A commonly known and widely studied problem of massive open online courses (MOOCs) is the high drop-out rate of students. In this paper we propose and analyze the composition of small learning groups as a solution to this problem. In an experiment, we composed such small learning groups in a MOOC context using two methods: Random grouping and grouping by an algorithm that considers selected student criteria. Further, a flipped classroom course was conducted on-campus with a local student group using the MOOC. We compared all three approaches to a control condition using two measures: Drop-out rate and learning performance. The empirical results give an indication, yet no hard evidence, that small groups might reduce student drop-out rates. *


In this article I ask why gay and lesbian people in Poland mourned their infamously homophobic president Lech Kaczynski, and, in turn, what it means to mourn one's own enemy. In examining this extraordinary case of national bereavement and the collective performance of grief, I point to complex models of attachment that position Polish homosexual subjects in a locus where they are able to enter the national discourse as subjects, and not only as abjects. I stress the role of identification rather than identity, relationality, processuality and performativity in understanding the relations between nationhood and homosexuality. Homosexual subjects attaining the rituals of national bereavement break the chains of interlinked subject positions and social expectations. In doing so, nationhood is rendered a "hybrid" space of identification for the homosexual subject. Consequently, mourning becomes an act of "queering" the nation, a wilful subversion of culturally and traditionally sanctioned performative recollections of nationhood (Polishness).


When treating displaced intraarticular fractures, the goal has been to restore normal articular cartilage contour to decrease local contact stresses that may lead to the development of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. To confirm observations that articular cartilage step-offs can remodel with time and to determine how the articular surface and subchondral bone remodels after an intraarticular fracture, joint surface changes were examined in a weightbearing sheep model with an intraarticular fracture. Articular surface pressure changes were observed across a 1-mm osteotomy. Twelve weeks after an intraarticular osteotomy, there was a decrease in differential pressure distribution between the normal articular cartilage and the depressed articular surface. Histologic analysis showed thinning of the articular cartilage on the high side of the osteotomy with collagen compression and bending of the collagen fibrils. On the low side of the osteotomy, increased chondrocyte cellularity and hypertrophy were observed. In addition, bending of collagen fibrils was observed in an unloaded state in an attempt to form a smooth overlapping shelf at the osteotomy site. Because intraarticular incongruency, with resultant joint contact pressure differences, seems to be involved in the development of posttraumatic arthritis, methods to improve cartilage remodeling may improve outcome after intraarticular fractures.


Abst ract Object ive: The current study dissociates lower level information-processing abilities (visual registration/encoding, visual-to-phonological conversion, and response output) and examines their contribution to ADHD-related phonological working memory (PHWM) deficits. Method: Twenty children with ADHD and 15 typically developing (TD) children completed tasks assessing PHWM, visual registration/encoding, visual-to-phonological conversion, and response output. Result s: Relative to TD children, children with ADHD exhibited deficient visual registration/encoding (d = 0.60), visualto-phonological conversion (d = 0.56), and PHWM (d = 0.72) but faster response output (d = −0.66). Bias-corrected, bootstrapped mediation analyses revealed that visual registration/encoding, but not visual-to-phonological conversion, partially mediated ADHD-related PHWM impairments. In contrast, faster response output in children with ADHD served as a suppressor variable, such that greater PHWM deficits were observed in children with ADHD after controlling for their faster response output (d = 0.72 vs. 0.85). Conclusion: Results implicate both lower level (visual registration/encoding) and higher order (PHWM) impairments in ADHD. Implications for designing educationally relevant cognitive interventions are discussed. (J. of Att. Dis. XXXX; XX(X) XX-XX)


This paper describes a localization technique for a mobile robot in an environment with many unknown obstacles, such as pedestrians. To realize robust localization against unknown obstacles by using a particle filter, a free-space observation model and an area-observation model have previously been proposed. Although these localization methods are very effective, both methods evaluate the likelihood by using only the free-space model. Thus, in the environment where only the left or the right side is open, the likelihood of a particle separated from a fixed obstacle cannot be lowered. For this reason, the particle continues to spread and cannot converge when the fixed obstacle is observed on only one side. In the present research, we solve these problems by two likelihood evaluations based on the free space and the occupied space. We evaluate the robustness and verify the validity of the proposed method by a simulation and an experiment in a real environment.


We present the matrix models that are the generating functions for branched covers of the complex projective line ramified over $0$, $1$, and $\infty$ (Grotendieck's dessins d'enfants) of fixed genus, degree, and the ramification profile at infinity. For general ramifications at other points, the model is the two-logarithm matrix model with the external field studied previously by one of the authors (L.Ch.) and K.Palamarchuk. It lies in the class of the generalised Kontsevich models (GKM) thus being the Kadomtsev--Petviashvili (KP) hierarchy $\tau$-function and, upon the shift of times, this model is equivalent to a Hermitian one-matrix model with a general potential whose coefficients are related to the KP times by a Miwa-type transformation. The original model therefore enjoys a topological recursion and can be solved in terms of shifted moments of the standard Hermitian one-matrix model at all genera of the topological expansion. We also derive the matrix model for clean Belyi morphisms, which turns out to be the Kontsevich--Penner model introduced by the authors and Yu. Makeenko. Its partition function is also a KP hierarchy tau function, and this model is in turn equivalent to a Hermitian one-matrix model with a general potential. Finally we prove that the generating function for general two-profile Belyi morphisms is a GKM thus proving that it is also a KP hierarchy tau function in proper times.


The Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) approach to infrastructure delivery has become famous as a crucial route for Public-Private Partnership (PPP) transportation infrastructure development in developing countries around the world including Thailand. One interesting PPP project is the Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) SkyTrain under a concession agreement with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Another interesting project is the Second Stage Expressway operating under a concession granted by the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT). Due to the commercial nature of infrastructure projects adopting the BOT method, the satisfaction of users and officials is a key concern since they are principal PPP stakeholders. In order to assess the levels of satisfaction with PPPs, it is essential to study the levels of perceived satisfaction by key stakeholders. The focus of this study is to identify and evaluate the benefits associated with PPP projects in Thailand and to develop a model of user satisfaction with the two PPP projects. The research analysed, reviewed, and modelled user satisfaction on the BTS project. The model is then tested on the EXAT project. Questionnaire survey responses from 561 EXAT users and 52 EXAT officials were obtained and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Linear Structural RELationships (LISREL) is used to analyse the hypothesised user satisfaction model. The results show that three principal factors (Service, Safety, and Operation) correspond to Service Quality (SQ) and SQ affects Behaviour Intentions (BI) via Perceived Value (PV) and/or Satisfaction (SA). The verified and validated model is generated and developed by using the data from the BTS and EXAT projects.


Galogandang women have the ability to create traditional ceramic art. Their  creativity  gave birth to a traditional ceramic form that had an impact on traditional women in relation to art. In this case, the presence of creative women in Galogandang gave birth to innovative traditional ceramics.   Traditional ceramic art was created in the form of pottery such as belango, pot, tirih pot, mengu, kumbuak, pot sigulamine, rosewater container, borasan, teapot, cauldron, kawa holder, miniature traditional house, giriak pot, pancake place, bika pot, tenpat water, incense sticks, carano pottery, miniature legged pan, glass, piggy bank, ashtray and so on. The problem formulated in this research is to explain the creativity of Galogandang women in developing the ceramic crafts to demonstrate their independence. This study uses a qualitative research method with descriptive analysis. In the end, the position of traditional women in their relationship with art is one of the spearheads in cultivating traditional arts and at the same time preserving pottery culture in Galogandang


THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS have seen an explosion of interest in the book of Esther, a text whose ancient Jewish-Persian context is as hard to access as its contemporary relevance is uncanny. This new commentary is among the very best. Berlin provides a rich and highly readable analysis and interpretation of the text and its early social and literary contexts. Berlin's commentary is unique in the way it draws extensively from early Greek literature of the Persian period as a context for understanding the Esther narrative. We see how the story world of Esther is like and unlike other contemporary literature about Persia. At the same time, she reads the book of Esther in relation to other biblical narratives and early Jewish interpretive tradition. The result is an expansive appreciation of the Esther story in relation to what comes before it, what surrounds it, and what it inspires within the interpretive communities that inherit it. At one point in the introduction Berlin indicates that her commentary does not pose "questions about the roles of women versus men, the relationships of sex and power that are in play in the story, and similar questions that reflect modern feminist ways of reading" (p. lv). Depending on how one approaches them, such questions need not reflect modern ways of reading any more than trying to understand a biblical text in its original context does. And if Berlin did in fact bracket such questions out of her commentary, that would be a serious problem. Indeed, the text of Esther begs that they be asked, especially among those of us concerned with how this story world reflects and comments on the social world of Persia in which it is set. Yet, happily, I find that Berlin's commentary does more than it promises in this regard. The analysis of sexual-political dynamics offers many valuable insights into the ways gender identities and roles were constructed and represented in ancient Persian culture as well as in early Jewish interpretive culture. Berlin does not avoid questions about gender and power in the story world and its social world. She does, however, expand, reframe and complicate those questions in ways that will enable future gender studies of the text and its early contexts to move forward in new and important directions.


Prolonging the lifetime of biomolecules in their functional states is critical for many applications where biomolecules are integrated into synthetic materials or devices. A simplified molecular shuttle system, which consists of fluorescently labelled microtubules propelled by kinesin motor proteins bound to the surface of a flowcell, served here as a model system to probe the lifetime of a hybrid device. In this system, the functional decay can easily be assayed by utilizing optical microscopy to detect motility and disintegration of microtubules. We found that the lifetimes of these hybrid systems were mainly limited by the stability of microtubules (MTs), rather than of kinesin. To determine the biocompatibility of polymers widely used in microfabrication, we assembled flowcells with glass bottom surfaces and covers fabricated from glass, poly(urethane) (PU), poly(methyl-methacrylate) (PMMA), poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) and ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH). Without illumination, only PU had a substantial negative impact on MT stability, while PMMA, PDMS and EVOH showed stabilities comparable to glass. Under the influence of light, however, the MTs degraded rapidly in the presence of PDMS or PMMA, even in the presence of oxygen scavengers. A similar effect was observed on glass if oxygen scavengers were not added to the medium. Strong bleaching of the fluorophores was again only found on the polymer substrates and photobleaching coincided with an accelerated depolymerization of the MTs.


We present a semi-empirical model for the infrared emission of dust around star-forming sites in galaxies. Our approach combines a simple model of radiative transfer in dust clouds with a state-of-the-art model of the microscopic optical pr operties of dust grains pioneered by Draine & Li. In combination with the STARBURST99 stellar spectral synthesis package, this framework is able to produce synthetic spectra for galaxies which extend from the Lyman limit through to the far-infrared. We use it to probe how model galaxy spectra depend upon the physical characteristics of their dust grain populatio ns, and upon the energy sources which heat that dust. We compare the predictions of our model with the 8- and 24-µm luminosities of sources in the Spitzer First Look Survey, and conclude by using the models to analyse the relative merits of various colour diagnostics in distingui shing systems out to a redshift of 2 with ongoing star formation from those with only old stellar populations.


This article presents analysis of employer's expectation and young workers selection criteria in Lithuania. It discusses the research data of employers' survey in Lithuania. The purpose of the article is to disclose employer's expectations and young workers selection criteria in Lithuania. Representative employers' survey data was carried out in 2013. The employers (N=829) representing private, public sector, and nongovernmental organisations were participated in the survey. The survey results revealed, that employers prefer to hire younger employees, who in addition to the standard package of necessary employability characteristics (higher education or vocational education diploma, knowledge of foreign languages, ICT skills, working experience, etc.) also possess the following strong personal characteristics e.g. intelligence, social competence, motivation, autonomy, creativity and an ability to learn rapidly at the workplace. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ss.86.4.9226


Background Point-of-care devices (POCDs) for monitoring long-term oral anticoagulation therapy (OAT) may be a useful alternative to laboratory-based international normalized ratio [INR] testing and clinical management. Purpose To determine clinical outcomes of the use of POCDs for OAT management by performing a meta-analysis. Previous meta-analyses on POCDs have serious limitations. Data sources PubMed, the Cochrane Library, DIALOG, MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIOSIS Previews and PASCAL databases. Study selection Randomized controlled trials of patients on long-term OAT, comparing anticoagulation monitoring by POCD with laboratory INR testing and clinical management. Data extraction 1) rates of major hemorrhage; 2) rates of major thromboembolic events; 3) percentage of time that the patient is maintained within the therapeutic range; 4) deaths. Outcomes were compared using a random-effects model. Summary measures of rates were determined. The quality of studies was assessed using the Jadad scale. Data synthesis Seventeen articles (16 studies) were included. Data analysis showed that POCD INR testing reduced the risk of major thromboembolic events (odds ratio [OR] = 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.35–0.74), was associated with fewer deaths (OR = 0.58; 95% CI = 0.38–0.89), and resulted in better INR control compared with laboratory INR testing. No significant difference between the two management modalities with respect to odds ratios for major hemorrhage was found. Limitations Quality scores varied from 1 to 3 (out of a maximum of 5). Only 3 studies defined how thromboembolic events would be diagnosed, casting doubt on the accuracy of the reporting of thromboembolic events. The studies suggest that only 24% of patients are good candidates for self-testing and self-management. Compared with patients managed with laboratory-based monitoring, POCD patients underwent INR testing at a much higher frequency and received much more intensive education on OAT management. Conclusions The use of POCDs is safe and may be more effective than laboratory-based monitoring. However, most patients are not good candidates for self-testing and self-management. Patient education and frequency of testing may be the most important factors in successful PODC management. Definitive conclusions about the clinical benefits provided by self-testing and self-management require more rigorously designed trials.


EL5 is a rice ubiquitin-protein isopeptide ligase (E3) containing a RING-H2 finger domain that interacts with Oryza sativa (Os) UBC5b, a rice ubiquitin carrier protein. We introduced point mutations into the EL5 RING-H2 finger so that residues that functionally interact with OsUBC5b could be identified when assayed for ubiquitination activity in vitro. The residue positions were selected based on the results of an EL5 RING-H2 finger/OsUBC5b NMR titration experiment. These RING-H2 finger residues form or are adjacent to a shallow groove that is recognized by OsUBC5b. The E3 activity of EL5 is shown to be dependent on a Trp located at the center of the groove. We classified rice RING fingers according to the type of metal-chelating motif, i.e. RING-H2 or RING-HC, and according to the presence or absence of a conserved EL5-like Trp. We discuss the probable relationship between E3 activity and the conserved Trp.


Abstract Just over half of the energy consumed in Jordan is consumed by transportation, of which passenger cars account for 57 %. This has increased fuel bills and elevated CO2 emissions, creating social and economic pressures. However, these can be ameliorated by enhancing the efficiency with which energy in the transportation sector is utilised. In Jordan, most of the passenger cars in 2017 ran on diesel and gasoline fuel, with only a small percentage (0.23 %, equivalent to 3586 cars) running on electricity. The aim of this paper was to assess the possible advantages of replacing passenger cars that run on fossil fuel with electrically powered vehicles. This was achieved through an examination of six scenarios where the key variable was the type of fuel needed to produce the electricity required to charge the cars. Different replacement percentages were also tested. Detailed analysis and calculations of CO2e emissions and the electricity needed were then performed. The results indicated that replacing fossil fuel passenger cars with electric cars is an effective option for reducing the amount of CO2e emissions and can decelerate the rate at which energy is consumed in the transportation sector, dramatically reducing the national fuel bill. If the running costs of car fuel are reduced, the use of renewable energy technologies based on solar and wind will also reduce the level of GHG emissions.


Background Despite the effective role of men in promoting their sexual and reproductive health, they have been often been overlooked for cultural and social issues and limited data are available in this context. In developing countries, the majority of men have limited knowledge and ability in terms of reproductive and sexual health. Hence, this study aimed to investigate male perceptions of sexual and reproductive health concepts.Materials and methods Using the conventional content analysis approach, a qualitative study was conducted on data retrieved through semi-structured interviews with 19 adult males aged 18 to 59 years, purposefully selected from among populations of health centers in the province of Alborz, Iran.Results Three main concepts and 9 categories emerged from the conventional content analysis: 1) Needs including "access to sexual and reproductive health services", "awareness", and "high-quality and safe sex"; 2) Responsibilities including "health- seeking behaviors", "sexual skills", "childbearing responsibilities" and "ethical commitment"; and 3) Social norms including "gender role attitudes", and "changing marriage rules".Conclusion This study showed that structural factors along with cultural and social norms affect sexual and reproductive health in men, who are men not adequately taken care and many of their sexual and reproductive health needs have not yet been addressed. Participants believed that men are responsible for their sexual reproductive health, although they have often difficulties fulfilling their responsibilities because of inadequate knowledge on the subject and the lack of access to sexual/ reproductive health services. Hence, along with socioeconomic changes, the health care system should be prepared to meet these needs and responsibilities using preventive strategies and programs.


Objective: HIV disproportionately affects young men who have sex with men, and knowledge about HIV transmission is one factor that may play a role in high rate of infections for this population. This study examined racial/ethnic differences in HIV knowledge among young men who have sex with men in the USA and their correlation to condom usage errors. Design: Participants included an ethnically diverse sample of 344 young men who have sex with men screened from an ongoing longitudinal cohort study. Eligible participants were between the ages of 16 and 20 years, born male and had previously had at least one sexual encounter with a man and/or identify as gay or bisexual. This analysis is based on cross-sectional data collected at the baseline interview using computer-assisted self-interviewing (CASI) software. Setting: Chicago, IL, USA Method: We utilised descriptive and inferential statistics, including analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc analysis to assess differences in HIV knowledge by level of education and race/ethnicity, and negative binomial regression to determine whether HIV knowledge was associated with condom errors while controlling for age, education and race/ethnicity. Results: The study found that Black men who have sex with men scored significantly lower (average score = 67%; p < .05) than their White counterparts (average score = 83%) on a measure of HIV knowledge (mean difference = 16.1%, p < .001). Participants with less than a high school diploma and those with a high school diploma/general education diploma (GED) only had lower knowledge scores, on average (66.4% and 69.9%, respectively) than participants who had obtained post-high school education (78.1%; mean difference = 11.7% and 8.2%, respectively, ps < .05). In addition, controlling for age, race and level of education, higher HIV knowledge scores were associated with fewer condom errors (Exp B = .995, confidence interval [CI] = 0.992–0.999, p < .05). Conclusion: Findings stress the need for increased attention to HIV transmission–related educational activities targeting the social realities and unique risk mechanisms of young men who have sex with men.


The management of encrusted ureteral stents is costly, time consuming and may be risky for the patient and challenging for the urologist. Treatment modalities for encrusted stents include extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, cystolithopaxy, rigid or flexible ureteroscopy with intracorporeal lithotripsy, percutaneous nephrolithotomy, open surgery, and a combination of those methods. In this study we describe the management of severe forgotten encrusted ureteral stents in 3 female patients using a prone split-leg position. This position allows us to effectively treat any site and degree of stent encrustation in a single-session approach with the patient in the same position during the whole procedure. All patients were rendered stent and stone free. No complications occurred.


Narvaez, N., Alazzeh, A. Y., Wang, Y. and McAllister, T. A. 2014. Effect of Propionibacterium acidipropionici P169 on growth performance and rumen metabolism of beef cattle fed a cornand corn dried distillers' grains with solubles-based finishing diet. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 94: 363 369. A growth and metabolism experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of Propionibacterium acidipropionici P169 on feedlot steers fed a cornand corn dried distillers' grains with soluble (DDGS)based finishing diet. Steers (40 non-cannulated and 8 ruminally cannulated) were divided into two groups and administered 10 g head 1 d 1 of maltodextrin containing 1 10 colony-forming units (CFU) of P169 or the same amount of carrier (Control), top-dressed once daily upon feeding. Feed intake, growth rate and feed efficiency were determined over 115 d. For cannulated steers, ruminal pH was monitored continuously for 5 d during the second week of each month over the entire feeding period with rumen samples collected 3 h after feeding on days 1 and 5. Molar proportions of butyrate, branched-chain volatile fatty acids (VFA) and NH3-N concentration increased (PB0.01) with P169, whereas total VFA, molar proportions of propionate, the acetate:propionate ratio, and lactate concentration did not differ (P 0.05) between treatments. P169 had a limited effect on ruminal pH as duration and area under the curve both at pH 5.5 and 5.2 as well as frequency of acute ruminal acidosis bouts were similar (P 0.05) for both groups. Compared with control steers, steers fed P169 had more (PB0.05) bouts of subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). All steers had similar (P 0.05) feed intake, growth rate, feed efficiency and carcass characteristics, except for longissiumus muscle area, being less (PB0.05) for P169 steers than controls. Supplementing P169 to beef cattle fed a cornand corn DDGS-based finishing diet had no effect on growth performance of beef cattle or ruminal pH and increased the bouts of SARA.


The blend membranes of sodium alginate (Na-Alg) and poly(acrylamide)-grafted guar gum (PAAm-g-GG) in the ratios of 3:1 and 1:1 were prepared and studied for the pervaporation separation of water–isopropyl alcohol mixtures over the entire range of mixture composition at 30°C. Membranes prepared from neat Na-Alg (M-1) and the 1:1 blend of Na-Alg and PAAm-g-GG (M-3) showed the highest separation selectivity for 10 mass % water in the feed mixture, whereas membranes prepared with the 3:1 blend ratio of Na-Alg to PAAm-g-GG showed the highest separation selectivity of 20 mass % water in the feed. Selectivity decreased with increasing amount of water in the feed for all the membranes, but these values show an increase with increasing amount of grafted copolymer in the blend mixture. Flux increased with increasing amount of water in the mixture, but the flux values did not change markedly with the PAAm-g-GG content in the blend membrane at the lower mass % water. At higher mass % of water, the flux values of the blends increase systematically with increasing amount of PAAm-g-GG in the blend polymer. For the 10 mass %-containing binary mixtures, the pervaporation separation experiments were performed at 30, 40, and 50°C, and the resulting data were used to calculate the Arrhenius activation parameters. These data indicated activated pore-type diffusion of the permeants in the membranes. Dynamic sorption studies were also performed on up to 40 mass % water–isopropyl alcohol mixtures at 30°C. These results, when analyzed by the empirical equation, indicated Fickian transport in all the cases. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 2014–2024, 2002


Factors influencing Sesame marketing in Jigawa state of Nigeria were examined. The sampling procedure involved the use of purposive and simple random sampling technique. A total of 156 middlemen consisting of 40 wholesalers, 77 rural assemblers and 39 buying agents were selected using simple random sampling technique. Interview schedule was used to collect information from sesame wholesalers, rural assemblers and buying agents in Suletankarkar, Gumel, Maigatari and Kalgo markets. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis, The result shows that the estimated coefficients of multiple determination (R2) indicates that the postulated regressors explained 21%, 54 % and 98% in the variation of the quantity of sesame traded for rural assemblers, wholesalers and buying agents respectively. Results imply that income and experience were major factors that influence the marketing of sesame in the study area. Formation of cooperative societies by marketers of sesame will make them benefit from economies of scale in marketing of sesame and have much access to credit facilities. Key Words : Sesame marketing, Sesame agents, Sesame in Jigawa State.


In the current context of globalization, firms have concentrated their efforts on the development of international brands. As a result, international brand portfolios have been restructured, and many successful local brands have been eliminated. This article's objective is to improve the understanding of local brand differences and competitive advantages relative to international brands. To achieve this, the authors reanalyzed the Young & Rubicam database Brand Asset Valuator and examined more than 744 brands across the four largest countries in Europe: the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy. The authors discuss the managerial implications of the findings for international marketers as they develop their ideal international brand portfolios.


This research is to study analyzes the views and strategies of Street Vendors of the demolition carried out by the municipality of Pekanbaru. Is a social phenomenon that occurs in people who have low income as street vendors (Informal Sector) at HR. Soebrantas. The theory used is the theory of perception, rational action and social capital. The data analysis was done by descriptive qualitative data collection techniques in this research is purposive in which the number of informants numbering 10 people consisting of hawkers, pp municipal police and the consumer. From the results of research in the field that the perception of street vendors (Informal Sector) give a good response, demolition is done is correct and good, while the response is not good from the merchant is to say demolition is done is not good because of evictions uneven. In conducting trade activities of traders has a coping strategy in facing demolition by performing resistance or resistance, resistance is done in two ways, among others, resistence to open and covert resistence Keywords: Street Vendors (Informal Sector), Perception, Strategy


Cannulation of the common bile duct of the mouse has been effected. Bile flow rates and bile pigment concentrations have been determined in these preparations. These values are lower than comparable values in bile duct-cannulated rats. An indirect test for detection of bile flow in the mouse, using injected fluorescein as an indicator, has been devised. Using all-or-none criteria, results obtained using the indirect technique correlate well with those obtained by the direct (cannulation) method. The use of the indirect test in conjunction with liver function tests, e.g., Bromsulphalein (BSP) retention, is recommended as a means of elucidating causes of liver dysfunction. By this means, a difference has been demonstrated between two hepatotoxic agents which effect BSP retention in the mouse: carbon tetrachloride and alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT). The latter agent interferes with BSP excretion as shown by the indirect bile flow test; carbon tetrachloride does not cause blockage of bile flow.

bile flow; alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate; CCl4; cannulation of bile duct in mice; fluorescein; measure of bile flow in mice; sulfobromophthalein; bile pigment concentration in mice

Submitted on September 10, 1964


Modern welding processes that can easily be automated (such as friction stir welding, laser welding and ultrasonic welding) are gaining popularity in joining metal-polymer hybrid structures. This field of science is intensively studied around the globe, as a dependable, productive joining method that directly produces structurally sound joints between a metal and a polymer structure could unleash unforeseen possibilities in the vehicle industry. In our experiments, we manufactured hybrid steel-poly(methyl-methacrylate) (PMMA) joints with laser welding, using the 2p design of experiment method. We measured the effect of cellulose reinforcing fibres (in varying weight percentages) on the transparency and weldability of the PMMA material and the effect of welding parameters on the mechanical properties of the joints. We also examined the vicinity of the welded seam with scanning electron microscopy.


This chapter considers the tripartite formation of who, what, and how in considerations of Africanist aesthetics and Black mobilizations that fuel contemporary ballet. Who dances contemporary ballet, and are they Black? What sorts of Black dance movements are deployed in contemporary ballet? And, most important, how does a Black attitude mark performances within ballet as belonging to a contemporary moment? The chapter presumes that contemporary ballet emerges in direct relationship to Africanist aesthetics. It considers work by William Forsythe, Alonzo King, and Twyla Tharp as a trio of artists whose work continues to circulate with different relationships to questions of Black dancers, dances, dancing, and the contemporary.


The human visual system is remarkably good at categorizing objects even in challenging visual conditions. Here we specifically assessed the robustness of the visual system in the face of large contrast variations in a high‐level categorization task using natural images. Human subjects performed a go/no‐go animal/nonanimal categorization task with briefly flashed grey level images. Performance was analysed for a large range of contrast conditions randomly presented to the subjects and varying from normal to 3% of initial contrast. Accuracy was very robust and subjects were performing well above chance level (≈ 70% correct) with only 10–12% of initial contrast. Accuracy decreased with contrast reduction but reached chance level only in the most extreme condition (3% of initial contrast). Conversely, the maximal increase in mean reaction time was ≈ 60 ms (at 8% of initial contrast); it then remained stable with further contrast reductions. Associated ERPs recorded on correct target and distractor trials showed a clear differential effect whose amplitude and peak latency were correlated respectively with task accuracy and mean reaction times. These data show the strong robustness of the visual system in object categorization at very low contrast. They suggest that magnocellular information could play a role in ventral stream visual functions such as object recognition. Performance may rely on early object representations which lack the details provided subsequently by the parvocellular system but contain enough information to reach decision in the categorization task.


The objectives of this study were to provide baseline data for alpha-tocopherol, selenium and polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations in the serum and feed of New Zealand dairy cattle, and to assess the likelihood that abnormal peroxide metabolism has a role in the impaired lactational and reproductive performance noted in selenium-deficient cattle. Twenty-four Friesian heifers were randomly allocated one of four winter diets consisting of hay with or without selenium supplementation, or pasture and silage with or without selenium supplementation. A winter diet consisting exclusively of hay (alpha-tocopherol concentration 19 mg/kg of dry matter) resulted in a pre-calving serum alpha-tocopherol concentration of 1.2 mg/l compared to 4.5 mg/l for pastured heifers (p<0.01). The pre-calving alpha-tocopherol concentration for the heifers fed hay fell into the range considered deficient (<2.0 mg/l), whereas heifers fed pasture and silage remained in the range considered adequate throughout the study period. Serum fatty acid concentration, and the proportion of fatty acids that were polyunsaturated, were lowest in the hay-fed heifers before calving (1.0 mg/ml, 37.1% respectively), and remained unchanged following re-introduction to pasture after calving in late July and August. Serum fatty acid concentration did not increase following the re-introduction of the heifers to pasture because of the unexpectedly low fatty acid concentration (4.8 g/kg of dry matter) of the mature winter pasture. In October, however, the proportion of fatty acids in serum that were polyunsaturated increased (50%) as did serum cy-tocopherol concentrations (greater than 13 mg/l). Mean serum selenium concentrations in the unsupplemented heifers ranged from 139 to 204 nmol/l, being lowest in October (p<0.01). Supplementation with intraruminal selenium pellets (two pellets delivering about 3 mg of selenium/day) increased serum selenium concentration and glutathione peroxidase activity (p<0.01) whereas the type of winter diet had no effect (p>0.05). These results suggest that dairy cattle wintered on hay can become Vitamin E-depleted, whereas the feeding of pasture and silage should provide adequate Vitamin E. The pasture offered following calving during July and August provided a low dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid challenge, suggesting that abnormal peroxide metabolism is unlikely to be an important mechanism in the impaired performance of selenium-deficient adult cattle which calve at this the of year.