Leontief's input-output models are usually viewed as simplified classical (neo-Ricardian) models. However, this interpretation hides two opposed views. On the one hand, the common interpretation, based on Koopmans and Samuelson's works, considers the so-called "models of Leontief" as simplified Ricardian models, in the sense of Samuelson, which are shown to be special cases of general equilibrium theory. In their framework, general equilibrium theory might be interpreted as a generalized model of Leontief and, reversely, models of Leontief are simplified Walrasian general equilibrium models. According to this theoretical tradition, classical theory and Walrasian general equilibrium theory are intimately linked and Classical economics is an "archaic" general equilibrium theory. On the other hand, neo-Ricardians view models of Leontief as simplified classical models that are incompatible with Walras' general equilibrium theory. Our paper examines in details the last argument: the incompatibility argument. Such a work will require to examine in details the definition of vague categories as "Walrasian", "Classical" and so forth. We show that incompatibility between models of Leontief and Walras' general equilibrium theory is ultimately based on Sraffa's worldview: "The connection of [my] work with the theories of the old classical economists has been alluded to in the preface... It is of course in Quesnay's Tableau Economique that is found the original picture of the system of production and consumption as a circular process, and it stands in striking contrast to the view presented by modern theory of a one-way avenue that leads from 'Factors of production' to 'Consumption goods'." (Sraffa, 1960) Neo-Ricardian's opposition between classical economics and Walrasian theory is based on the representation of production: classical economics refers to circular flow while Marginalist theory refers to a one-way avenue production process. As it makes a sharp distinction between the two theoretical traditions, we call this criterion "Sraffa's Guillotine". Based on Leontief's PhD dissertation (1928) and his early input-output model (1937), the main result of our inquiry is that this criterion is powerless to distinguish Leontief's representation of production as a circular flow and Walras one. Indeed, while Leontief based his models on Marx' reproduction scheme, his representation of production is the same than Walras' complete one, in striking contrast with neo-Ricardian critical apparatus. Hence we argue in favor of a pluralist interpretation of the models of Leontief: both Classical and Walrasians.


Molten inorganic salts containing solid nanoparticles with a stable and uniform dispersion have attracted great attention as efficient heat transfer and storage materials1,2 and for catalysis for chemical reactions3-5. Compared with those in aqueous suspensions6,7, electrophoretic deposition and electro-codeposition in molten inorganic salts containing nanoparticles, have not been reported in the literature. Here we report the possibility of electrophoretic deposition of nanoparticles and electro-codeposition of nanoparticles and metal ions in high-temperature molten salts. In molten fluorides and chlorides, a cell voltage of 1.2-1.5 V below the decomposition voltage of the electrolytes, was applied to perform the electrophoretic deposition of nanoparticles (e.g., TiB2 and ZrB2), resulting in compact and adhesive coatings. In molten chlorides containing TiB2 nanoparticles, with the introduction of electroactive specimen MoO3, the electro-codeposition of TiB2 nanoparticles and Mo-containing ions has been achieved to yield a dense and adhesive Mo/TiB2 nanocomposite coating with homogeneous distribution of Mo and TiB2, without the assistance of stirring of molten salts. These findings should present opportunities to synthesize various coatings and films via the proposed processes.


Abstract The Landweber method is a well-known iterative procedure to compute regularized solutions of linear operator equations in Hilbert spaces. Unfortunately it is also known to be very slow. Likewise its generalization to Banach spaces has good regularizing properties but slow convergence. This article intends to give a short survey about the use of sequential subspace optimization to accelerate this method while preserving its regularizing properties.


This paper presents a dead-time compensation strategy for permanent magnet synchronous motor drive taking zero current clamp and parasitic capacitor effects into account. A correction algorithm for false detection of current polarity due to zero current clamp is proposed. In addition, effect of parasitic capacitor of switching device is investigated and incorporated in dead-time compensation strategy. Experimental results demonstrates the validity of the proposed method.


Heavy ion data for custom SRAMs fabricated in a 45-nm CMOS technology demonstrate the effects of N- and P-well contact densities on single-event latchup. Although scaling has improved latchup robustness, process-level immunity has not been achieved, indicating a continued need for latchup mitigation techniques. A simple, algorithmic approach for selecting N- and P-well contact densities is described that ensures latchup immunity while minimizing the area penalty.


The problem of assessing the relative final cost of energy technology substitution is approached by means of a general interpretation of Wright's law and the introduction of the concept of thermodynamic utility which derives from energy carrier specific energy. Via the Bienaymé-Chebyshev inequality the ideal relative final cost of C-fuel substitution (diesel/gasoline) is estimated at three different probabilities (50 %, 87.5 % and 96 %) for compressed hydrogen, liquid hydrogen, metal hydrides and Li-ion technology. C-fuel substitution at cost parity is an event clearly below the 50 % probability horizon of insight, 96 % values range between 1.8 (Li-ion) and 4.3 (LH2/350 bar) times the cost of C-fuel technology. The results are evinced in a cost/price comparison between the Toyota Mirai, Tesla 3 and Skoda Superb and found to reflect reality properly (see ESI). The approach also offers a systematic explanation for previously as-is reported findings of parameter studies from literature. The issue of mitigating the cost discrepancy is briefly discussed, too. Abstract The problem of assessing the relative final cost of energy technology substitution is approached by means of a general interpretation of Wright's law and the introduction of the concept of thermodynamic utility which derives from energy carrier specific energy. Via the Bienaymé–Chebyshev inequality the ideal relative final cost of C-fuel substitution (diesel/gasoline) is estimated at three different probabilities (50 %, 87.5 % and 96 %) for compressed hydrogen, liquid hydrogen, metal hydrides and Li-ion technology. C-fuel substitution at cost parity is an event clearly below the 50 % probability horizon of insight, 96 % values range between 1.8 (Li-ion) and 4.3 (LH2/350 bar) times the cost of C-fuel technology. The results are evinced in a cost/price comparison between the Toyota Mirai, Tesla 3 and Skoda Superb and found to reflect reality properly (see ESI). The approach also offers a systematic explanation for previously as-is reported findings of parameter studies from literature. The issue of mitigating the cost discrepancy is briefly discussed, too.


Virtual Reality (VR), the recent development in the fields of user interface design and interactive computer graphics, offers significant advantages to classical methods of teaching and learning. A series of VR based educational modules are being developed to explore the capabilities. This research aims to offer an alternative resource for those students who did not fully grasp the material in class or from the text by utilizing VR
technology. Its main objective is to provide these students with another viewpoint that will give them a better understanding to the material that was previously presented through traditional means.
The best way to learn robotics is that each persons control his/her own robot. But the cost of providing a robot for each student is too expensive. With the virtual robot system, students can have hands-on experience virtually. In this research, a virtual robot prototype
was developed to assist robotics course teaching. It was then evaluated by the students from Mechanical Engineering Diploma, Politeknik Sultan Abdul Halim Muzaffar Syah
(POLIMAS) students to get initial insights of the prototype benefits and limitations. The features being tested were: interaction, believability, ergonomics, freedom to explore, safety, learning and robotics. The result shows that the prototype has a potential in
assisting robotics learning as the students agreed to the benefits that the prototype could offer.


Large areas in the Upper Tana river catchment, Kenya, have been over‐exploited, resulting in soil erosion, nutrient depletion and loss of soil organic matter (SOM). This study focuses on sections of the catchment earmarked as being most promising for implementing Green Water Credits, an incentive mechanism to help farmers invest in land and soil management activities that affect all fresh water resources at source. Such management practices can also help restore SOM levels towards their natural level. Opportunities to increase soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks, for two broadly defined land use types (croplands and plantation crops, with moderate input levels), are calculated using a simple empirical model, using three scenarios for the proportion of suitable land that may be treated with these practices (low = 40 per cent, medium = 60 per cent, high = 80 per cent). For the medium scenario, corresponding to implementation on ~348 000 ha in the basin, the eco‐technologically possible SOC gains are estimated at 4·8 to 9·3 × 106 tonnes (Mg) CO2 over the next 20 years. Assuming a conservative price of US$10 per tonne CO2‐equivalent on the carbon offset market, this would correspond to ~US$48–93 million over a 20‐year period of sustained green water management. This would imply a projected (potential) payment of some US$7–13 ha−1 to farmers annually; this sum would be in addition to incentives that are being put in place for implementing green water management practices and also in addition to the benefits that farmers would realize from the impact on production of these practices themselves. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


Multi-region time domain integral equation is developed to analyze the electromagnetic scattering from three dimensional combined conducting and dielectric objects. In this paper, we use EFIE-PMCHM to solve the time domain integral equations. The problem is formulated in terms of a set of coupled integral equations involving equivalent electric and magnetic surface currents based on equivalence theorem. The conducting structures and the dielectric materials are modeled by planar triangular patches, RWG basis and Galerkin method are used. Numerical results are given for various structures and compared with other available data. The numerical results show that the present method has satisfying accuracy.


Presently one in twenty of the Irish population have Type 2 Diabetes. Our obesity epidemic is resulting in dramatic annual increases in this prevalence. The Expert Advisory Group in Diabetes in its 2007 report recognised the need for a new model of care for people with Type 2 Diabetes. This integration across primary, secondary and tertiary care requires agreed clinical guidelines. Dr Velma Harkins of the Irish College of General Practitioners, Dr Richard Firth of the Irish Endocrine Society and Dr John Devlin of the Department of Health and Children, have provided these guidelines offering clarity in regard to diagnosis, targets for clinical care and the interventions that are appropriate at each stage of the disease


Introduction Despite high obesity rates nationwide, many medical schools provide insufficient nutrition education. It has been difficult to deliver nutrition education in the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons primary care clerkship given its numerous clinical sites offering varied expertise. We supplemented the clerkship curriculum with an interactive e-learning module designed to provide medical students with knowledge and skills in nutrition and weight management, as well as an understanding of registered dietitians' role. The module was created using Articulate Storyline 2 software and emphasizes active learning and simulated clinical decision-making. Methods Learning objectives and a curriculum were developed based on a literature review, a student focus group, and the guidance of a multidisciplinary committee. The module integrates narrated content with interactive exercises and utilizes multiple teaching styles. Participants were third-year medical students in the primary care clerkship during January-May 2016 (n = 64). Students completed a web-based evaluation survey after the module. Results Ninety-two percent of students completed the module in 2 hours or less. Ninety-seven percent agreed that the module was easy to navigate, and 93% agreed that it contributed to their understanding of the topic. Qualitatively, students generally responded positively to the module's active learning component and its use of multiple teaching styles. Discussion This web-based interactive learning module is an accessible tool that allows educators to simultaneously deliver information and target clinical reasoning skills. Active learning facilitates students' engagement with the content. This module is easily adaptable for other learners, including physicians and patients, and other areas of the curriculum.


Background/Aims: Patients with hypothalamic tumors frequently experience severe obesity, and its treatment with diet, exercise, and/or pharmacologic treatment has had limited effect. Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist exenatide (exendin-4), used for treatment of type 2 diabetes, causes persistent weight loss via signaling in the brainstem. Methods: We report the case of a 17-year-old patient with obesity resulting from a hypothalamic germ cell tumor. He was treated by chemoradiotherapy and exenatide at a dose of 5 µg subcutaneously twice daily. Results: Exenatide resulted in a 29-kg weight loss (BMI reduction from 37.1 to 29.1) after 2.5 years of treatment; significant weight gain occurred shortly after exenatide was discontinued. Conclusion: Exenatide resulted in considerable reduction of body weight in a patient with severe hypothalamic obesity. This novel observation requires follow-up clinical studies for establishing the effects of exenatide in patients with disrupted hypothalamic energy regulatory pathways.


This paper presents an overview of fifty years of industrial policy in the Netherlands and discusses the current legitimacy of historic motives. This paper is based on a five year research project in which a committee of the Prof. Mr. B.M. Teldersstichting (the scientific bureau of the Dutch Liberal Party) studied the history of and motives for industrial policy in the Netherlands between 1949 and 1991.The historic overview in this paper describes six distinct eras in the Dutch history of industrial policy. It start in 1949 with post-WWII offensive industrialisation policy, followed by growth policy. This lasted until the first oil crises, after which a more defensive and selective growth era began. In the eighties industrial policy became more offensive again, this time focussing on technology policy. Starting 1989 defensive and even direct state support for companies regained the upper hand, only to end in 1994 when a new minister took over to focus on promoting a knowledge intensive industry.The paper will discuss the eight motives that were used to legitimise specific government intervention in favour of the manufacturing industry in the studied period. These motives were (1) protecting employment, (2) protecting higher value added per employee, (3) promoting networking, (4) stimulation of innovation, (5) reducing the failure of the capital market, (6) avoiding destruction of capital, (7) promoting exports and (8) Matching.In this paper a framework is build by which motives for specific government intervention in favour of the manufacturing industry can be tested on their legitimacy from a liberal economic perspective. This framework consist of three criteria: the market must evidently fail, the government must have an effective instrument to correct the market failure and the cost - benefit relation of the intervention must be reasonable.When applying these criteria to the motives that were mentioned to legitimise industrial policy, this paper will conclude that only the stimulation of innovation is a legitimate motivation. The other seven motives do not hold against the liberal economic framework for industrial policy. The paper did discover another motive for industrial policy that did not came up in the historic overview; providing or protecting collective goods, such as infrastructure, the environment, science and education. This led to the conclusion that the Netherlands has too much industrial policy and that the way forward was to start abolishing historic dead wood in a forest that has grown wild in the last fifty years. The room that is created by abolishing unnecessary old policy can then make room to improve specific collective goods or to lower taxes for companies in general.


A chiral photoswitchable nanoporous material with remote-controllable enantioselective adsorption capacity is presented. This metal-organic framework possesses both homochiral d-camphoric acid and light-responsive azobenzene moieties. Although the structure at the chiral moieties is unaffected, the trans-cis-azobenzene-photoisomerization changes the pore environment and, thus, switches the enantioselective adsorption behavior of the homochiral MOF.


Discussions of relationship transgressions-violations of relationship norms-are often difficult for couples to successfully navigate. Nevertheless, engaging in and resolving these discussions should promote intimacy. Drawing on the risk regulation model, individuals' experiences of disengagement and intimacy during transgression discussions should depend on their trust in their partner regarding the transgression and how they regulate distress related to lower trust. Attachment style represents individual differences in emotion regulation in close relationship contexts and is indicated by the risk regulation model. In contrast, mindfulness also improves interpersonal emotion regulation but is not reflected in the model. The present study proposed that the effect of trust on the experience of intimacy and disengagement during transgression discussions would depend on individuals' attachment style or mindfulness. Hypotheses were tested in a sample of 81 heterosexual newlywed couples. Trust was positively associated with intimacy for individuals with higher attachment avoidance, but not for individuals with lower attachment avoidance. Trust was negatively associated with disengagement for individuals with either lower mindfulness or higher attachment avoidance. Trust was not associated with disengagement for individuals with higher mindfulness or lower attachment avoidance. Implications for theory and clinical interventions focused on increasing intimacy and decreasing disengagement in couple relationships are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record


We measured organic-layer (OL) recovery and carbon stocks in dead woody debris a decade after wildfire in black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.) forests of interior Alaska. Previous study at these research plots has shown the strong role that landscape position plays in governing the proportion of OL consumed during fire and revegetation after fire. Here, we show that landscape position likely influences fire dynamics in these stands through changes in mineral soil texture. The content of fine-textured materials in underlying mineral soils was positively related to OL depths measured 1 and 10 years after fire, and there was an interaction between soil texture and elevation in governing OL consumption and OL recovery a decade following fire. OL depths 10 years after fire were 2 cm greater than 1 year after fire, with a range of 19 cm of accumulation to 9 cm of subsidence. Subsidence was inversely related to the percentage of fine textures within the parent material. The most influential factor determining the accumulation of OL carbon stocks a decade following wildfire was the interaction between landscape position and the presence of fine-textured soil. As such, parent material texture interacted with biological processes to govern the recovery of soil organic layers.


In this paper we consider the problem of combining multiple probabilistic causal models, provided by different experts, under the requirement that the aggregated model satisfy the criterion of counterfactual fairness. We build upon the work on causal models and fairness in machine learning, and we express the problem of combining multiple models within the framework of opinion pooling. We propose two simple algorithms, grounded in the theory of counterfactual fairness and causal judgment aggregation, that are guaranteed to generate aggregated probabilistic causal models respecting the criterion of fairness, and we compare their behaviors on a toy case study.


This study investigates the relationship between transient luminous events (TLEs) and lightning strokes, and the characteristics of TLE‐producing thunderstorms over the Tibetan Plateau (TP), and compares them to those over the Yangtze‐River Delta (YRD) and East China Sea (ECS) where at the same latitude during 2005–2015. The data were collected using the Imager of Sprites and Upper Atmospheric Lightning (ISUAL) and the World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) observations. Elves, sprites and halo (abbreviated as ESHs) were dominantly detected over the southeastern TP (∼88%), mostly in August and September (∼81%). Different from the southeastern TP, the detected sprites and sprite‐to‐lightning stroke ratios over the YRD were larger in spring than those in summer and autumn. Halos were frequently observed in August over all study regions. Blue jets were only detected over the YRD. The density of TLEs over the southeastern TP was three times smaller than those over the YRD and ECS, while the density of elves over the southeastern TP was slightly larger than that over the YRD. The average energy of TLE‐related lightning strokes based on WWLLN was found to be larger over the southeastern TP compared to the YRD and ECS. The ESH‐producing clouds over the southeastern TP had a larger scale with a lower lightning frequency than those over the YRD.


The solum nasi of Microcebus murinus is characterized by the presence of a zona annularis, continuity between the anterior transverse lamina and the paraseptal cartilage, a continuous paraseptal cartilage, a palatine cartilage and a posterior transverse lamina. It lacks a fibula reuniens and possibly a cartilage of the nasopalatine duct as well as a palatine papillary cartilage. The morphology in M. murinus closely resembles that seen in Tupaia and Galago. This affinity results from the retention of primitive traits. However, Galago is reported to lack a zona annularis, thus displaying a specialization not shared with M. murinus. Therefore, the zona annularis provides a useful trait for distinguishing between the ontogenies of M. murinus and Galago.


This paper is concerned with wh-interrogative clauses in which the imperative verbal mood occurs. According to some authors (cf. in particular Lohnstein, 2000; Chiba, 2009), such constructions are ill-formed. Lohnstein offers a semantic account (based on his theory of sentence mood) ruling out imperative (wh-)interrogatives by arguing for the impossibility of partitioning propositions which are not open for truth value assignment. Chiba argues for the ungrammaticality of such structures by assuming that sentence types (as defined by Sadock & Zwicky, 1985) cannot be combined. This paper will show that unacceptable as well as acceptable imperative wh-interrogatives exist and that, therefore, both approaches make the wrong predictions. A pragmatic approach is developed which argues for the realization of incompatible illocutionary acts. This account makes it possible to derive the unacceptability of certain imperative wh-interrogatives and to allow the acceptable cases which can be observed. An advantage of referring to illocutionary acts is that it becomes possible to speak about various subtypes of the erothetic illocution which can be proven to play a role in distinguishing between acceptable and unacceptable imperative wh-interrogatives. The results of controlled acceptability judgements confirm this assumption.


We introduce the R package npmv that performs nonparametric inference for the comparison of multivariate data samples and provides the results in easy-to-understand, but statistically correct, language. Unlike in classical multivariate analysis of variance, multivariate normality is not required for the data. In fact, the different response variables may even be measured on different scales (binary, ordinal, quantitative). p values are calculated for overall tests (permutation tests and F approximations), and, using multiple testing algorithms which control the familywise error rate, significant subsets of response variables and factor levels are identified. The package may be used for low- or highdimensional data with small or with large sample sizes and many or few factor levels.


Summary This is the translation of the Mizar article containing readable Mizar proofs of some axiomatic geometry theorems formulated by the great Polish mathematician Alfred Tarski [8], and we hope to continue this work. The article is an extension and upgrading of the source code written by the first author with the help of miz3 tool; his primary goal was to use proof checkers to help teach rigorous axiomatic geometry in high school using Hilbert's axioms. This is largely a Mizar port of Julien Narboux's Coq pseudo-code [6]. We partially prove the theorem of [7] that Tarski's (extremely weak!) plane geometry axioms imply Hilbert's axioms. Specifically, we obtain Gupta's amazing proof which implies Hilbert's axiom I1 that two points determine a line. The primary Mizar coding was heavily influenced by [9] on axioms of incidence geometry. The original development was much improved using Mizar adjectives instead of predicates only, and to use this machinery in full extent, we have to construct some models of Tarski geometry. These are listed in the second section, together with appropriate registrations of clusters. Also models of Tarski's geometry related to real planes were constructed.


Abstract In this article we critically analyse the production of Israeli territory vis a vis the ongoing transformation of land and planning policies from ones based on pure nationalism to those purporting neo-liberal logic. Unlike the existing literature − including the most recent critical body of knowledge on planning, resource management and public policy in Israel − we contend that this transformation must be understood within the framework of settler colonialism. Our main argument is that the growing dominance of neo-liberal policies, expressed in the form of new public management, privatization of space, planning and territorial management, is bound up with Israel's settler-colonial politics. Based on our detailed study of the dynamics of the privatization of space in Israel, we conceptualize the interplay between centralistic-national territorial management and new public management, free market-driven, privatization-prone, liberal planning and land policies as neo-settler colonialism. This concept focuses on the symbiotic relationships between these two vectors, with the latter providing a new mechanism of colonial control.


By the use of firm-level data coming from the Business Environment and Enterprise Performance Survey (BEEPS V) conducted in 2012-2014, this paper aims to investigate the sources of the possible gender ownership gap in innovativeness in a set of Transition economies. Through the Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition that allows us to define the factors responsible for the differences in the propensity to innovate between female-owned and male-owned firms, we find that the innovation disparity between firms with females among their owners and those having only male owners is mainly due to the differences in endowment effects. Tangible and intangible assets affect the innovation gap between the two groups of firms.


Abstract The stability diagrams in the "pericentric distance — eccentricity" plane of initial data are built and analyzed for Kepler-38, Kepler-47, and Kepler-64 (PH1). This completes a survey of stability of the known up to now circumbinary planetary systems, initiated by Popova & Shevchenko (2013), where the analysis was performed for Kepler-16, 34, and 35. In the diagrams, the planets appear to be "embedded" in the fractal chaos border; however, I make an attempt to measure the "distance" to the chaos border in a physically consistent way. The obtained distances are compared to those given by the widely used numerical-experimental criterion by Holman & Wiegert (1999), who employed smooth polynomial approximations to describe the border. I identify the resonance cells, hosting the planets.


The distribution of divergence times between member species of a community reflects the pattern of species composition. In this study, we contrast the species composition of a community against the meta‐community, which we define as the species composition of a set of target communities. We regard the collection of species that comprise a community as a sample from the set of member species of the meta‐community, and interpret the pattern of the community species composition in terms of the type of species sampled from the meta‐community. A newly defined effective species sampling proportion explains the amount of the difference between the divergence time distributions of the community and that of the meta‐community, assuming random sampling. We propose a new index of phylogenetic skew (PS), as the ratio of the maximum‐likelihood estimate of the effective species sampling proportion to the observed sampling proportion. A PS value of 1 is interpreted as random sampling. If the value is >1, the sampling is suspected to be phylogenetically skewed. If it is <1, systematic thinning of species is likely. Unlike other indices, the PS does not depend on species richness as long as the community has more than a few members of a species. Because it is possible to compare partially observed communities, the index may be effectively used in exploratory analysis to detect candidate communities with unique species compositions from a large number of communities.


Detailed profiles providing the main-chain/mesogen organisation within the smectic layers have been deduced from neutron diffraction measurements, by combination of the coherent scattering length profiles of the fully hydrogenated and the partially deuterated side-chain liquid-crystal polymers. Two different sites of the molecule (either on the main chain or on the mesogen extremity) have been labelled to prove that main chains can occupy the central zone of the mesogenic layers whereas most of them remains confined between the layers of mesogens. This surprising result can be explained considering symmetry arguments.


AIMS
Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like-2 factor (NRF-2) is a transcription factor well known to provide an advantage for cancer growth and survival regulating the cellular redox pathway. In breast cancer cells, we recently identified the monomeric heme-globin Neuroglobin (NGB) as part of a new mechanism induced by the steroid hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) against oxidative stress. While there is mounting evidence suggesting a critical role of NGB as a sensor of oxidative stress, little is known about its involvement in NRF-2 pathway activation in breast cancer cells.

RESULTS
Although NGB is not involved in the rapid E2-induced NRF-2 stability, E2 loses the capacity to regulate the expression of NRF-2-dependent genes in NGB-stably silenced depleted MCF-7 cells. These data strongly sustain a role of NGB as a compensatory protein in the E2-activated intracellular pathway devoted to the increase of cancer cells tolerance to ROS generation in stressing conditions acting as key regulator of NRF-2 pathway activity in a time dependent manner.

INNOVATION
In this study, we identified a new role for NGB in the cell response to oxidative stress.

CONCLUSION
Altogether, reported results open new insights on the NGB effect in regulating intracellular pathways related to cell adaptive response to stress and, as consequence, to cell survival, beyond its direct effect as ROS scavenger, opening new prospective in cancer therapeutic intervention.


The recent emergence of on-surface LNA-based assays as potentially better alternatives over DNA-based approaches, due to enhanced sensitivity and target specificity, raises the need for the precise identification of the factors that control the performance of these assays. In this work, we investigated whether the probe density of fully modified ssLNA probes on the gold(111) surface could influence the target recognition capacity of the LNA sensing layer and illustrated simple means to control it, primarily by adjusting the salt concentration, nature of the cation, and pH of the immobilization buffer. It was observed that monovalent Na(+) could more effectively control the sensor probe density compared to bivalent Mg(2+), leading to better target recognition. Interestingly, unlike in the case of ssDNA sensor probes, the target recognition efficiency of the LNA layer at the optimum probe density was found to be almost spacer-independent, probably due to the rigidity of the LNA backbone. The optimized LNA sensor layer could discriminate single base mismatches, detect a minimum target DNA concentration of 5 nM, and sense a significant level of hybridization within a time scale of a few minutes. To our knowledge, for the first time, we identify the factors that control the on-surface LNA probe density for maximizing the performance of the LNA sensing layer.


Abstract Xanthine oxidase (E . C. 126.96.36.199) was immobilized by adsorption on electrochemically modified graphite plate to obtain an enzyme electrode. The current of the enzyme electrode in substrate (xanthine) solutions was found to be a result of the electrooxidation of H2O2 generated in the enzyme layer. The linearity of the amperometric signal was up to a substrate concentration of 65 μm at 0.6 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). The response time was 2 minutes. The enzyme electrode preserves 80% of its initial activity activity after a three-week storage in air at room temperature.


Previous work by our research team has proposed methods to estimate the open-circuit-potential (OCP) versus electrode stoichiometry relationships required by physics-based models of lithium-ion battery cells. It has also shown how to estimate the boundaries of the stoichiometric operating windows of both electrodes as the cell is cycled between 0% and 100% state of charge. In this earlier work, we sought to calibrate the OCP relationships by fitting them to a physics-based multi-species multi-reaction model; however, we have found that even this fitting is insufficient for producing unbiased estimates of the OCP relationships for some common positive-electrode materials such as LCO, NCA, and NMC. The primary contribution of this paper is to propose a new method that can calibrate the positive-electrode OCP relationship and its stoichiometric operating boundaries. It requires only commonly available constant-current discharge data from the cell, and when combined with methods from the earlier papers promises to mitigate the need for cell teardown to find the OCP relationships of a physical cell in many cases. The method is first validated in simulation and is then applied to a physical graphite//NMC cell. Results agree closely with others in the literature that were found using a teardown approach.


Within the framework that same-sex sexual preference can be a positive outcome, the developmental aspects of sexual identity are traced. It seems that gender identity is fixed in early childhood, rigid sex-role identity has questionable effects while more flexibility in sex-role behaviors has definite advantages, and sexual preference choices continue to evolve throughout one's lifetime. A review of the literature on role modeling leads to the conclusions that children internalize particular traits from a variety of models, and that gays are more likely to serve as nontraditional sex-role models than as determiners of same-sex sexual preference.


The shell body of a 1/1000 scale car was fabricated by numerically controlled NC machining, integrated circuit compatible processing and micro-electro-discharge processing as an experimental model of a micromachine. The gold-plated nickel body is 30 mu m thick, 4.8 mm long, 1.8 mm wide and 1.8 mm high. In the shell body, a 0.7 mm diameter motor is installed. The body powered by the electromagnetic motor runs at the speed of 100 mm/sec. The body and parts are fabricated as a miniature of a full scale model car by those techniques. Those microparts were assembled with a micromanipulator. This demonstration indicates the possibility for complex 3-dimensional machining.


The paper examines the significant role of pornography in promoting the diffusion of new communication technologies and how these new technologies have altered the nature of pornography in the last few decades. These technologies include VCRs, camcorders, Minitel, computers, and the Internet. Pornographic products have served to stimulate initial interest in these new technologies, despite their higher initial costs. The attractions are greater perceived privacy and easier access. As each of these technologies matures and prices drop, the role of pornographic products diminishes relatively, but not absolutely. Another pattern is the elimination of the distinctions among producers, distributors and consumers as do-it-yourself video and computers have permitted a "democratization" of pornography.


The standard continuous adaptation feedback cancellation algorithm for feedback suppression in hearing aids suffers from a large model error or bias if the received sound signal is spectrally colored. To reduce the bias in the feedback path estimate, we propose adaptive feedback cancellation techniques that are based on a closed-loop identification of the feedback path as well as the (auto-regressive) modeling of the desired signal. In general, both models are not simultaneously identifiable in the closed-loop system at hand. We show that-under certain conditions, e.g., if a delay is inserted in the forward path-identification of both models is indeed possible. Two classes of adaptive procedures for identifying the desired signal model and the feedback path are derived: a two-channel identification method as well as a prediction error method. In contrast to the two-channel identification method, the prediction error method allows use of different adaptation schemes for the feedback path and for the desired signal model and, hence, is found to be preferable for highly nonstationary sound signals. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed techniques outperform the standard continuous adaptation algorithm if the conditions for identifiability are satisfied.


Traffic grooming in Wavelength Division Multiplexing networks merges low-speed flows into large capacity pipes so that the bandwidth discrepancy between them will not lead to underutilization of resources. On-line solutions for dynamic grooming typically involve the construction of an auxiliary graph for deciding on the routing and wavelength assignment. An auxiliary graph can represent the network partially leading to scalable solutions. Previous algorithms based on such type of auxiliary graph produce unfair distribution of resources. This paper introduces a novel algorithm and two of its variants, which are scalable and produce low blocking and fair distribution of resources.


In this brief, it is shown that predictive feedforward control can be used to help a hydroelectric plant achieve its target for delivered power while operating in grid (power system) frequency control mode. Due to the fundamental limitation on how fast the water in the supply tunnel can be accelerated by gravity, a hydraulic turbine is always subject to some delay between opening or closing its guide vane and the consequent change in power. Here, it is proposed that the effect of this delay can be alleviated by predicting 3-4 s ahead what power will be required, based on grid frequency measurements, and using this as a feedforward signal to supplement the normal PID feedback controller. Results are presented to show the improved accuracy of power delivery achieved with this approach.


Due to the high level of endemic species that they support and the high threats they are facing, such as unsustainable limestone quarrying, hunting and urbanization, limestone karsts are recognized as biodiversity hotspots needing urgent protection. The first aim of our study was to investigate the mammal rodent diversity of Thai limestone karsts. Our second aim was to examine the diversity at a finer scale than the species level (intraspecific biodiversity) using phylogeographic approaches. Therefore, we studied the phylogeographic structure of a threatened rodent, endemic to limestone karsts of Thailand, the Murinae Leopoldamys neilli. We sampled 76 limestone karsts in whole Thailand and live-trapped 444 rodents including 115 Leopoldamys neilli. Our study revealed an important rodent diversity in Thai limestone karsts. Besides endemic rodent species, karsts also host typical forest species to which they provide forest refugia in deforested regions. At the intraspecific level, our study revealed an unexpected high level of genetic differentiation within the rodent species L. neilli. As each limestone area of Thailand is characterized by a particular genetic lineage of L. neilli, the destruction of these karsts would lead to the disappearance of unique intraspecific strains not found elsewhere. Our results highlight the importance of protecting limestone habitats to preserve not only their interspecific but also intraspecific rodent diversity that is highly threatened as more than 20% of limestone karsts in Thailand have already been quarried. Management plans of limestone, a non-renewable resource, should urgently take into account this high biological importance of karsts. (Resume d'auteur)


In this paper, it is shown that the concept "economic imperialism" has no real content with epistemological point of view: there is no evidence of using specific economic methodology in areas of other social disciplines. Economics is in a permanent crisis caused by the impossibility to answer its most important questions if one remains in its own area. However, social disciplines have now not only common subject of research, but also common empirical base and a unified analytical apparatus. Preconditions are created to form General Social Analysis as a discipline about functioning and development of social institutions and about behavior of human collectives in their frameworks.


INTRODUCTION
Early pulmonary vascular disease in preterm infants is associated with the subsequent development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and pulmonary hypertension (PH), however, mechanisms that contribute to or identify infants with increased susceptibility for BPD and/or PH are incompletely understood. Therefore, we tested if changes in circulating angiogenic peptides during the first week of life are associated with the later development of BPD and/or PH. We further sought to determine alternate peptides and related signalling pathways with the risk for BPD or PH.

METHODS
We prospectively enrolled infants with gestational age <34 weeks gestation and collected blood samples during their first week of life. BPD and PH were assessed at 36 weeks postmenstrual age. Samples were assayed for each of the 1121 peptides included in the SOMAscanTM technology, with subsequent pathway analysis.

RESULTS
Of 102 study infants, 82 had BPD and 13 had PH. Multiple angiogenic proteins (PF-4, VEGF121, ANG-1, BMP10, HGF, ANG2) were associated with the subsequent diagnosis of BPD, and FGF-19, PF-4, CTAP-III and PDGF-AA levels were associated with BPD severity. Early increases in BMP10 was strongly associated with the late risk for BPD and PH.

CONCLUSION
We found that early alterations of circulating angiogenic peptides and others were associated with the subsequent development of BPD. We further identified peptides that were associated with BPD severity and BPD-associated PH, including BMP10. We speculate that proteomic biomarkers during the first week of life may identify infants at risk for BPD and/or PH to enhance care and research.


The present study examined job-specific worry, as well as possible predictors of such worry, namely job-specific self-efficacy and supervisor dispositionism. 133 non-supervising crew members at different departments onboard upmarket cruise ships filled in a questionnaire during one of their journeys. Findings show that employees report moderate amounts of job-specific worry and the galley crew reports significantly greater amounts of worry than the other departments. Results also indicate that cruise ship crews worry somewhat more than workers in the land based service sector. Furthermore it was found that supervisor dispositionism, i.e. supervisors with fixed mindsets, was related to greater amounts of worry among the crew. Surprisingly, job-specific self-efficacy was unrelated to job-specific worry.


An efficient in vitro regeneration system by direct organogenesis from mature nodal and internodal stem segments ofNewhall navel orange (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck) was developed. Illuminating conditions together with plant growthregulators affected the adventitious bud regeneration frequency and efficiency. The initial 15 d darkness inoculation isbeneficial for the adventitious bud regeneration. The highest regeneration frequency (85.2%) and bud formationefficiency (3.7 per responsive internodal stem segment) were obtained in the media supplemented with 1.0 mg L-1 BAPand 0.5 mg L-1 NAA. ABA at 0.2 mg L-1 positively affected the bud formation efficiency, which amounted to 8.5 buds perinternodal segment in the presence of BAP at 1.0 mg L-1. The adventitious shoots successfully rooted and weretransferred to the soil.


It has always been a contested task to try to present a scientific base for the concept of 'management.' The concept of management, which has always been of great importance to the institutions and organizations, has gone through periodical changes both in terms of its structure and scope, and improved in a parallel fashion as the time goes by. Political, economic, social and cultural transitions at global scale in the second half of the 20 th century uncovered the necessity for certain organizations to revisit their concepts of management. As a result of the economic equilibrium, which was driven by globalization, technological developments and political trends, neoliberal tendencies started to be favored all over the world. Consequently, free market system has been adopted and the increasing level of competition, which is supported by the system, gave way to the idea that the only way for the organizations to dominate the market that they play in is to present a more institutionalized, holistic and innovative approach. The organizations, which have been following a more traditionalistic approach to management in the previous periods, started to make modifications in their methods. The workers, who have been considered to be mere manpower in the past, started to be seen as 'value' and that came out to be important for the sustainability of the organization. This viewpoint gave way to the strategic management practices. Management trainee programs of the institutionalized units are a result of this understanding. Today, several organizations train their managers on their own or through different means. This study aims at examining the management trainee programs in the latest technological level that they arrived at, by focusing on how practical and productive these measures are in the special example of the Turkish Airlines.


This research investigates the hydrologic sustainability of urban development and stormwater management for a watershed on the Texas A&M campus. The main Texas A&M campus has become increasingly urbanized, resulting in areas of imperviousness that generate higher rates of runoff. This growth has proceeded unchecked, and significant growth and development are planned for the future. Both increased rates of runoff from previous development and the impact of anticipated development should be addressed through mitigation efforts. This research provides a means to assess watershed health through biological indicators, water quality indicators, riparian ecosystems, the floodplain footprint, and the long term flow regime. A modeling framework is implemented to couple hydrologic and hydraulics models to simulate a set of watershed management plans that employ alternative best management practices. Development plans will be evaluated based on a set of comprehensive metrics that synthesize ecological, hydrologic, and environmental aspects of watershed health. The selection of management plans based on these metrics will enhance the environmental sustainability of further campus development.


AbstractDeep brain stimulators (DBS) are a neurotechnological means of treating a variety of movement disorders, including essential tremor (ET). Current stimulation systems apply an electrical current to targets in the brain at a constant rate for as long as they are implanted and activated – treating symptoms but causing uncomfortable side-effects and inefficient power usage. Some users feel estranged or isolated for various reasons. Next-generation DBS systems could use the patient's self-modulated neural signals to trigger stimulation. These brain-computer interface-triggered DBS (BCI-DBS) systems would give the user the ability to moderate side-effects and reduce battery power consumption. It's not yet clear, however, whether neural control will alleviate or exacerbate psychosocial problems. To explore these concerns, we conducted interviews with an ET patient using an experimental BCI-DBS platform. Our interviews offer preliminary insights about what problems ET patients may face while using BCI-DBS.


OBJECTIVE: The effect of uric acid and obesity on diurnal blood pressure variation in hypertensive patients is unknown. We aimed to investigate the specific relationship between uric acid, obesity and nocturnal dipping status essential hypertensive patients with normal renal function. MATEriAl and METhOdS: Two hundred sixty-nine patients with newly diagnosed essential hypertension or on antihypertensive treatment underwent 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, biochemistry analysis and urine testing. rESul TS: Patients were classified as either dippers (108 patients, 40%) or nondippers (161 patients, 60%). Uric acid levels were higher in nondippers than in dippers (6.5 +/- 1.2 mg/dL vs. 5.5 +/- 1.1 mg/dL, p==0.001). In the same line, body mass index is significantly higher in nondippers compared to dippers (29.9±3.9 kg/m 2 vs. 27.8±3.9kg/m 2 , p=0.01). CONCluSION: This study demonstrates that increased serum uric acid levels and body mass index are associated with nondipping blood pressure patterns in patients with essential hypertension.


The Mau Mau insurgency sparked a decades-long debate over the appropriate leadership and ideology for a successful nationalist struggle. This controversy is still unresolved in many sub-Saharan African countries. The issues which military historians and students of African nationalism continue to debate use Mau Mau as the starting point for nearly all post-World War II assessments of independence movements and guerrilla forces. Many of the central issues in the Mau Mau uprising were foreshadowed in the Malagasy revolt. An ethnically based solidarity movement sought radical economic and political reforms as well as eventual independence. Denigrated by elements of an intellectual elite and deprived of the leadership of a radical urban-based faction, a rural cadre of insurgents and supporters came to the fore. This obscure vanguard emphasized traditional religious and cultural themes and found them useful as a means of mobilizing and motivating a large number of combatants. Kenyan veterans of England's World War II campaigns were instrumental in forging contemporary military precepts with tactics influenced by religious traditions. Despite their eventual defeat, the Mau Mau insurgency was nevertheless implicitly more successful than its Malgache predecessor if only as measured by the extent to which the former became a reference point, albeit an ambiguous one, for subsequent generations of African politicians and insurgents.


The neuropathology of demyelinating lesions in multiple sclerosis was studied in specimens obtained by diagnostic needle biopsy during early stages of the disease. The lesions were characterized by a chronic inflammatory reaction dominated by lymphocytes and macrophages, plaque‐like demyelination, and astroglial sclerosis. Oligodendrocytes within the lesions were studied by immunocytochemistry using antibodies against various myelin and oligodendroglia components. The expression of messenger RNA for proteolipid protein was determined by in situ hybridization. Our studies revealed that myelin‐oligodendrocyte glycoprotein is a sensitive and reliable marker for identification of oligodendrocytes in demyelinated plaques. The results suggest that in the early course of the disease in some patients, oligodendrocytes may largely be preserved, whereas in others oligodendroglial loss is pronounced. Loss of oligodendrocytes was only marginally related to the stage of demyelinating activity within the lesions. These findings indicate that the pathogenesis of demyelination may vary within different multiple sclerosis patients.


Argument The nineteenth century witnessed the advent of the modern zoo. Nearly everyone who came to watch the exotic animals was a "lay person" in the sense that virtually none had formal training in zoology. This paper provides a typology of these observers: the zoo directors, assistants, keepers, animal painters, and the "common" visitor. What did they observe and what were their motivations? Did they pursue a certain agenda? What kind of knowledge, if any, did they produce? Soon the issue of the reliability of these observations emerged. Lay observers insisted on the veracity of their intimate and personal knowledge of animals while academics complained that their claims could not be generalized and were tainted by anthropomorphism. Hence the focus on the observations of these laymen will reveal contemporary assumptions on what may count as "scientific." This is closely linked to the question of how far the zoo may qualify as a site of scientific investigation in the first place. The constraints on doing research on animals in a public space such as the zoo were numerous. Yet despite these obstacles the zoological garden contributed to the rise of ecological thinking as well as to the formation of ethology as a scientific discipline.


Credit risk is one of the most important challenges confronted by banks, and customers' credit rating is one of the most commonly used methods to measure credit risk that is widely used nowadays. In this way, the better and more effective control of the collected funds is possible (optimal allocation of costs) and significantly reduces the returns to the bank and the probability of credit risk. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of financial variables on the credit risk of real customers of Omid Entrepreneurship Fund Branches in Markazi Province and deals with collecting and reviewing the sample views of 54 managers and 11 employees of Omid Entrepreneurship Fund Branches in Markazi Province. The research method in the present study is applied based on the purpose and descriptive-survey based on the type. The library method was used to collect the data, in the field section, the questionnaire method was used to collect data. The questionnaire of the study has been designed based on the data obtained from the basic fundamentals of the study and with regard to the dependent and independent variables of the study, namely, financial variables and credit risk of consumers in 15 questions based on the five-item Likert scale and is a reason for using the Likert scale with regard to accuracy, reliability and simplicity of the appropriate scale for use in different domains. In order to investigate the normality of data distribution and determining the type of appropriate statistic test for data analysis, the results of the K-S test was considered as the criterion. Ultimately, in this research, in case of the normality, the one sample t-test was used and in case of the non-normality, a binominal test was used. Meanwhile, SPSS software was used for calculating. After collecting data and analyzing the findings, all the sub-hypotheses were accepted. Also, the main hypothesis of the research was also tested and accepted, therefore, it can be said that the financial variables of the customers (including the duration of cooperation, remaining debt, type of collateral, average account balances, having an experience of returned check, having an experience of maturing liability, and the duration of refunding) affects the credit risk of the real customers of the branches of Omid entrepreneurial fund of Markazi province. Keywords: Remaining debt, debt type, Returned check, Maturing liability, Credit risk.


While water consumption and water conservation have been issues in the discussion of sustainable tourism for many years, the residual part of the water cycle, the management of wastewater, lacks attention in tourism and planning research. This study addresses the wastewater challenges in Danish second home tourism. More than 200,000 second homes represent an important touristic resource both for owners and for short-term renters, and increasingly, the accommodation capacity is used over the whole year. Data from the building and housing register (BBR) show that only 54% of second homes are connected to public sewage and purification utilities. The remaining second homes rely on individual solutions such as septic tanks. A substantial regional variance can be partly explained by differences in the spatial layout and location of second homes, but mainly the dissimilar priorities in the responsible municipalities are the result of systemic factors following semi-privatized governance structures. The intensified use of second homes, rising ground water levels, more frequent climate incidences and EU and national quality obligations for the environmental standards of waterways and seas are and will in the future be challenges for the municipal wastewater management. A mobilization of second home owners and users to support updated wastewater infrastructures is hampered by the principles laid down in the governance structures.


We have deluge of data in time series format for numerous phenomena. The number of snapshots, resolution and many other factors come into play as we look to identify the dynamics in a given problem. The pre-processing and post-processing steps while working with the data may be related to the resources in terms of the hardware used to collect data and computations that we perform on the data to create a model for the problem. Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD) is a data based modeling tool that identifies a matrix to map a quantity at some time instant to the same quantity in future. It is possible to generate a model by projecting the high dimensional spatiotemporal data to a lower dimensional subspace in a probabilistic framework. Sampling and gaussian projection have been used in the past to increase efficiency in the computation. Here, we design an optimized version of DMD that utilizes time delay coordinates and a projection matrix. In our proposal, we discussed about two projection matrices -- one is inspired by the Krylov subspace and the other promotes and leverages sparsity to bring computational benefits in producing a model. Satisfactory results are obtained as they are tested on data related to Double gyre (present in ocean mixing) and on a 2D compressible signal. The motivation behind this scheme of DMD comes from the fact that data from many phenomena are 'big' and 'highly oscillatory.'


: In this work, we present a spiking neural network(SNN) based PID controller on a neuromorphic chip. On-chipSNNs are currently being explored in low-power AI applications.Due to potentially ultra-low power consumption, low latency,and high processing speed, on-chip SNNs are a promising toolfor control of power-constrained platforms, such as UnmannedAerial Vehicles (UAV). To obtain highly efficient and fast end-to-end neuromorphic controllers, the SNN-based AI architecturesmust be seamlessly integrated with motor control. Towards thisgoal, we present here the first implementation of a fully neu-romorphic PID controller. We interfaced Intel's neuromorphicresearch chip Loihi to a UAV, constrained to a single degreeof freedom. We developed an SNN control architecture usingpopulations of spiking neurons, in which each spike carriesinformation about the measured, control, or error value, definedby the identity of the spiking neuron. Using this sparse code,we realize a precise PID controller. The P, I


Background This review scopes the evidence on the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of interventions to improve suboptimal use of medicines in order to determine the evidence gaps and help inform research priorities. Sources of data Systematic searches of the National Health Service (NHS) Economic Evaluation Database, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects. Areas of agreement The majority of the studies evaluated interventions to improve adherence, inappropriate prescribing and prescribing errors. Areas of controversy Interventions tend to be specific to a particular stage of the pathway and/or to a particular disease and have mostly been evaluated for their effect on intermediate or process outcomes. Growing points Medicines optimization offers an opportunity to improve health outcomes and efficiency of healthcare. Areas timely for developing research The available evidence is insufficient to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of interventions to address suboptimal medicine use in the UK NHS. Decision modelling, evidence synthesis and elicitation have the potential to address the evidence gaps and help prioritize research.


Introduction The great basins of the Orinoco, Maracaibo, and the Rio Magdalena occupy much of the general area of northern South America. What relations may have existed among these several basins in the past, or even within the limits of the Tertiary, can only be surmised in the present state of geologic knowledge, though there are grounds for suspecting that throughout the Tertiary era all shared in the major movements of uplift and subsidence, with individual differences. It seems probable that there was intimacy, if not actual connection, between some of these basins during the early Tertiary. All seem to have had somewhat similar drainage relations to the region lying between, but to what extent each of them transgressed such land area as existed there during the Tertiary is not yet known. At the present time the high cordillera of the eastern Andes lies between or borders on these several . . .


In this paper, a high-performance large-scale flexible heater based on graphene and silver particles is described. The graphene-based heater can be integrated into various systems without having to be too selective about the substrate used. When silver particles are mixed with graphene, the sheet resistance is greatly reduced to 158.7 U sq . A time-dependent temperature profile under an applied voltage of 18 V exhibits a steady-state temperature of up to 220 C within 5 s. The high steady-state temperature and ultrafast response time are superior to those of most of the existing heaters. The infrared pictures show a uniform temperature distribution whether the graphene-based heater is flat or curved. Therefore, with the advantages of a low driving voltage, high steady-state temperature, ultrafast response and excellent flexibility, the graphene-based heater is expected to be a promising potential candidate for various wearable heating applications.


The transformation of Lake Victoria that began in 1980 followed the population explosion of Nile perch Lates niloticus, causing the apparent extirpation of 500+ endemic haplochromine species and dramatic physico-chemical changes. Officially introduced in 1962–1963, but present earlier, the reasons for the long delay before its population exploded are discussed. The hypothesis that it occurred only after the haplochromine decline is evaluated, but haplochromines declined only after the Nile perch expansion began. The sudden eutrophication of the lake was attributed to Nile perch, but evidence of eutrophication from 1950 onwards led some researchers to conclude that it was the result of climatic changes. We conclude that the haplochromine destruction disrupted the complex food webs that existed prior to the upsurge of Nile perch. The depletion of fish biomass by Nile perch may have been the source of extra phosphorus responsible for the eutrophication of the lake. After the Nile perch explosion in 1980 the fish population came to be dominated by only three species, but fisheries productivity increased at least 10-fold. Fishing has caused demographic changes in Nile perch, which may have allowed some haplochromine species to recover. The condition of the lake appears to have stabilised since 2000, partly because the fish biomass has risen to at least 2 × 106 t, replacing the 'lost' biomass and restoring some ecosystem functioning.


In this paper, we compile the current surface seawater C37 alkenone unsaturation (UK′37) measurements (n = 629, −1 to 30°C temperature range) to derive a global, field‐based calibration of UK′37 with alkenone production temperature. A single nonlinear "global" surface water calibration of UK′37 accurately predicts alkenone production temperatures over the diversity of modern‐day oceanic environments and alkenone‐synthesizing populations (T = −0.957 + 54.293(UK′37) − 52.894(UK′37)2 + 28.321(UK′37)3, r2 = 0.97, n = 567). The mean standard error of estimation is 1.2°C with insignificant bias in estimated production temperature among the different ocean regions sampled. An exception to these trends is regions characterized by strong lateral advection and extreme productivity and temperature gradients (e.g., the Brazil‐Malvinas Confluence). In contrast to the surface water data, the calibration of UK′37 in surface sediments with overlying annual mean sea surface temperature (AnnO) is best fit by a linear model (AnnO = 29.876(UK′37) − 1.334, r2 = 0.97, n = 592). The standard error of estimation (1.1°C) is similar to that of the surface water production calibration, but a higher degree of bias is observed among the regional data sets. The sediment calibration differs significantly from the surface water calibration. UK′37 in surface sediments is consistently higher than that predicted from AnnO and the surface water production temperature calibration, and the magnitude of the offset increases as the surface water AnnO decreases. We apply the global production temperature calibration to the coretop UK′37 data to estimate the coretop alkenone integrated production temperature (coretop IPT) and compare this with the overlying annual mean sea surface temperature (AnnO). We use simple models to explore the possible causes of the deviation observed between the coretop temperature signal, as estimated by UK′37, and AnnO. Our results indicate that the deviation can best be explained if seasonality in production and/or thermocline production as well as differential degradation of 37:3 and 37:2 alkenones both affect the sedimentary alkenone signal.


Active appearance model (AAM) has been widely used in face tracking and recognition. However, accuracy and efficiency are always two main challenges with the AAM search. The paper therefore proposed a fast appearance-model based 3D face tracking algorithm to track a face appearance with significant translation, rotation, and scaling activities by using stochastic meta-descent (SMD) optimization scheme to accelerate the appearance model search and to improve the tracking efficiency and accuracy. The proposed algorithm constructs an active face appearance model by using several semantic landmark points extracted from each frame and then processes the appearance model search to approximate the model translating, rotating, and scaling by using the SMD filter to minimize the appearance difference between the current model and the new observation. We compared the results with both a conventional AAM and a Camshift filter and found that our algorithm outperforms both two in terms of efficiency and accuracy in tracking a fast moving, rotating, and scaling face object in a video sequence.


The role played by innovation and knowledge in fostering development in contemporary society is today unquestionable. However, knowledge is not a key-factor merely in the economic realm. In recent years there has been an intense debate as to the nature of changes inside the military establishment, which is greatly transforming weapon systems, strategic doctrines, and the military organization as a whole. This study analyses the affects of this Revolution in Military Affairs on the international defense industry. The attention given to innovation in the defense industry is a prime concern to manufacturers, military establishments, and governments. We conclude that R&D and innovation in the defense sector play an important part in many countries National Innovation System (NIS) and spatial development.


The wild vicuna ( Vicugna vicugna ) and guanaco ( Lama guanicoe ) and domesticated llama ( Lama glama ) and alpaca ( Lama pacos ). native camelids of South America, are the most important large herbivores of the continent because of their ecological dominance and importance to man. In this rewiew we discused the main characteristics of the biology and husbandry of the domestic and wild camelids in the central mountain of Chile. This rewiew is part of a consulting report written for the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF). Key words: Camelids, South America. Palabras claves: Camelidos, Sudamerica.


A strategy is presented for analysing marine biological survey data and relating the biotic patterns to environmental data. To avoid circular argument, biotic and environmental data are kept separate. The strategy is illustrated by a worked example using data on the distribution of 182 nematode species in 107 samples in the River Exe estuary. Nineteen stations are grouped Into 4 main clusters using complementary classification and multi-dimensional scaling (MDS) ordination techniques. These are both based on root-root transformed abundance data with the Bray-Curtis measure of similarity. Indicator species characterising each group are extracted using information statistics. Inverse analyses give clusters of co-occurring species which are strongly related to the station groups. Relationships of station groups to environmental variables are revealed by superimposing data for one variable at a time on the MDS plot, showing that some station groups differ in sediment granulometry and others in salinity, for example. Some of the other factors plotted show no difference between station groups. Similarly, physiognomic characteristics of the species are superimposed on the MDS plots of the inverse analysis of species groups, revealing differences in setal length and trophic status between the species groups. Finally, the 4 major station groups and species groups are related to one another in terms of morphological adaptation to the habitat.


The effect of novel antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and antimicrobial peptide microspheres (AMS) on the physicochemical and microbial quality of Tricholoma matsutake wild edible mushrooms was investigated. In the experiments, 1.0 g/L, 0.5 g/L of AMS, and 1.0 g/L AMPs were used as preservatives. Mushrooms coated with 1.0 g/L and 0.5 g/L of AMS as a preservative had better physicochemical and sensory qualities than did mushrooms coated with 1.0 g/L of AMPs. In the experiment, 1.0 g/L of blank microspheres without cathelicidin-BF-30 (PLGA-1.0) and distilled water was used as the control. Samples with these two treatments had minimal changes in texture, weight loss, total bacteria count, and sensory attributes. Research results suggests that the use of AMS can maintain the quality of Tricholoma matsutake wild edible mushrooms and could extend the postharvest life to 20 d.


Gravity currents are flows driven by buoyancy differences between two contacting fluids caused by differences in temperature, salinity, or by the presence of suspended particles. Such flows can reach high velocities near the bed, especially on the area behind the front of the current. As a result, rapid morphological changes may take place in river and estuarine beds due to the passage of these flows. Essential to determine the erosion induced by the current, are the spatial and temporal distributions of the bed shear stress. However, these are troublesome to measure in laboratory or in the field. To bridge this difficulty, the eddy-solving numerical simulations may be used. This study presents here the three-dimensional numerical simulations of lock-exchange salinity currents flowing over a mobile bed. It is aimed at the characterization of the sediment entrainment capacity of the current. The large eddy simulation technique is employed for analyzing the evolution and the structure of the current. For the sediment simulation, an Euler-Euler methodology based on a single phase approach is used. The main features of the current are compared with experimental data obtained in the laboratory. Velocity fields and bed shear stress distributions for different initial current densities are analyzed and linked to entrainment scenarios. The influence of small variations in particle size of the mobile bed is also discussed.


Using the theoretical formalism of J. Hone (Dekker encyclopedia of Nano science and Nanotechnology, 2004), we have evaluated the temperature dependent thermal conductivity of isolated SWNT, 2D-graphene sheet, 3D-graphite and single MWNT. From these evaluations, it shows that the thermal properties of carbon nanotubes are dominated by phonons. The results also show 1-D quantization of phonon band structure. Our theoretical results indicate that nanotube composite materials may be useful for thermal management applications.


Many of our thoughts, emotions and motivations have intentional content: they are 'about' something. In this paper I present my VENI research project, which starts from the observation that the everyday practice of empirical psychological research is built on the idea that mental states have content. However, empirical psychology lacks a clear view on how mental content should be understood and how mental states could be causally efficacious in virtue of their content. I focus on mental states that play a role in psychiatric symptomatology, and develop an interpretivist answer to these questions. I also offer some suggestions showing how an interpretivist notion of mental content could be used in empirical research on psychiatric symptoms.


All of molecular recognition, from the binding of substrates by enzymes, information transfer in replicating and processing the genetic information to the folding of proteins, is dominated by non-covalent interactions. Perhaps the most difficult challenge is understanding protein folding because each group in the molecule has to recognize with which ones it has to pair. Protein engineering is providing an experimental entry to determine the magnitude, nature and importance of the various levels of recognition in protein folding. In addition to providing the energetics of specific interactions, fundamental information has been given on the energetics of burial of hydrophobic and hydrophilic solvent-accessible surface areas and their specific roles in stabilizing protein cores and helices.


Studying the molecular phase of the interstellar medium in galaxy nuclei is fundamental for the understanding of the onset and evolution of star formation and the growth of supermassive black holes. We can use molecules as observational tools exploiting them as tracers of chemical, physical and dynamical conditions. The molecular physical conditions in galaxy centers show large variety among galaxies, but in general the average gas densities (traced by e.g. HCN) and temperatures (probed by e.g. H2CO, NH3) are greater than in their disks. Molecular gas and dust is being funneled to the centers of galaxies by spiral arms, bars, and interactions and one example of this is the minor merger NGC1614. Gas surface densities are also greater in galaxy nuclei and in extreme cases they become orders of magnitudes larger than what we find in the center of our own Milky Way. We can use IR excited molecular emission to probe the very inner regions of galaxies with deeply obscured nuclei where N (H2 )> 10 cm−2 for example the luminous infrared galaxy (LIRG) NGC4418. Abundances of key molecules such as HCN, HCO , HNC, HC3N, CN, H3O are important tools in identifying the nature of buried activity and its evolution. Standard astrochemical scenarios (including X-ray Dominated regions (XDRs) and Photon Dominated Regions (PDRs)) are briefly discussed in this review and how we can use molecules to distinguish between them. High resolution studies are often necessary to separate effects of excitation and radiative transfer from those of chemistry one example is absorption and effects of stimulated emission in the ULIRG Arp220. The nuclear activity in luminous galaxies often drives outflows and winds and in some cases molecular gas is being entrained in the outflows. Sometimes the molecular gas is carrying the bulk of the momentum. We can study the structure and physical conditions of the molecular gas to constrain the mass outflow rates and the evolution and nature of the driving source and two examples are discussed here: NGC1377 and Mrk231.


The heterogeneity of multiple myeloma (MM) contributes to variable responses to therapy. In this study, we aim to correlate the heterogeneity of MM to the presence of quiescent cells using the PKH26 dye. We tracked the rare quiescent cells in different niches of the bone marrow by allowing the cells to cycle in vivo. Surprisingly, quiescent PKH+ MM cells prefer to reside within the osteoblastic niches of the bone marrow (PKH+/OS) rather than the vascular niches or the spleen. These cells (PKH+/OS) displayed enhanced stem-like properties by forming colonies in semi-solid medium. PKH+ cells were highly tumorigenic, as compared to PKH- cells, and were resistant to a variety of drugs. However, the levels of drug resistance were somewhat similar regardless of where the PKH+ cells were isolated. Our data indicate that osteoblastic niches support the growth of quiescent PKH+ cells and allow them to have stem-like functions. Citation Format: Zheng Chen, Robert Z. Orlowski, Michael Wang, Larry Kwak, Nami McCarty. Osteoblastic niche supports the growth of quiescent multiple myeloma cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Hematologic Malignancies: Translating Discoveries to Novel Therapies; Sep 20-23, 2014; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2015;21(17 Suppl):Abstract nr A45.


Hardware IPs are assumed to be roots-of-trust in complex SoCs. However, their design and security verification are still heavily dependent on manual expertise. Extensive research in this domain has shown that even cryptographic modules may lack information flow security, making them susceptible to remote attacks. Further, when an SoC is in the hands of the attacker, physical attacks such as fault injection are possible. This paper introduces EISec, a novel tool utilizing symbolic execution for exhaustive analysis of hardware IPs. EISec operates at the pre-silicon stage on the gate level netlist of a design. It detects information flow security violations and generates the exhaustive set of control sequences that reproduces them. We further expand its capabilities to quantify the confusion and diffusion present in cryptographic modules and to analyze an FSM's susceptibility to fault injection attacks. The proposed methodology efficiently explores the complete input space of designs utilizing symbolic execution. In short, EISec is a holistic security analysis tool to help hardware designers capture security violations early on and mitigate them by reporting their triggers.


In this contribution a series of novel multiblock-co-ionomers consisting of hydrophobic (partially fluorinated) and hydrophilic (sulfonated) domains has been prepared and characterised in terms of their applicability as fuel cell membranes. The synthesis of these multiblock-co-ionomers is a four-step procedure including (1) the sulfonation of the monomer 4,4'-difluorodiphenylsulfone, (2) the preparation of hydrophilic telechelic macromonomers by molecular-weight controlled step-growth polycondensation of the sulfonated monomer with various bis(thio)phenols, (3) the preparation of a hydrophobic telechelic macromonomer and (4) the coupling of both telechelic macromonomers to yield microphase-separated block-co-ionomers. This study focuses on the investigation of the influence of various linkage groups and atoms within the hydrophilic domains of the multiblock-co-ionomers. Both the telechelic macromonomers and the multiblock-co-ionomers were structurally investigated by 1 H- and 19 F-NMR spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). All multiblock-co-ionomers of this series could be cast into membranes and their membrane properties (ion-exchange capacity, specific resistance, swelling ratio, water uptake, thermal and oxidative stability) were measured and discussed in dependence of the various linkage groups within the hydrophilic domains.


Plasmon modes are calculated for both a single quantum well-multiple subband and a double quantum well-single subband structure within a response formalism which allows the calculation of the non-local screened interaction. The self energy for the electron states is evaluated in both cases so that the quasiparticle properties can be calculated. Effective mass changes and lifetimes for the emission of plasmons are described as a function of the system parameters.


Fayos and Sopuerta have recently set up a formalism for studying vacuum spacetimes with an isometry, a formalism that is centred around the bivector corresponding to the Killing vector and that adapts the tetrad to the bivector. Steele has generalized their approach to include the homothetic case. Here, we generalize this formalism to arbitrary spacetimes and to homothetic and conformal Killing vectors but do not insist on aligning the tetrad with the bivector. The most efficient way to use the formalism to find conformal Killing vectors (proper or not) of a given spacetime is to combine it with the notion of a preferred tetrad. A metric by Kimura is used as an illustrative example.


Background Radiographic progression of joint damage in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is associated with disease activity of RA. But the joint damage may progress in patients considered to be in clinical remission. It requires clarification whether the duration of remission of RA influence on joint damage progression. Objectives The aim of this study was to compare radiographic progression of joint damage in patients (pts) with RA who had remission ≥ 6 months, pts with low disease activity and pts who had moderate disease activity. Methods In the prospective study 127 pts with RA (according to ACR 1987) was performed analysis of development of new bone erosions in hands and feet in 2 years. All pts received controlled treatment with DMARDS according «treat-to-target» concept. The pts were divided into 3 groups: during 2 years 1 group - 31 pts were in remission ≥ 6 months, 2 group - 45 pts had low disease activity, 3 group - 51 pts had moderate disease activity. There were no differences in all baseline demographic and clinical characteristics (P>0,05) between 3 groups. The mean age was 42,4±15,8; 43,1±16,9; 43,5± 14,3 years; the median [25th percentile-75th percentile] duration of RA was 5,5 [2,5-13,5]; 15 [2,5-30,5]; 6 [2-39], the mean DAS28 was 5,5±1,0; 6,2±0,8; 6,1±1,7 respectively. Clinical remission, disease activity were defined according DAS28. Radiographic progression was assessed by the modified Sharp's method. The statistical analysis was performed using parametric and nonparametric methods. Results After 2 years the development of new bone erosions was in 11 (35%) pts of 1 group, in 34 (75%) pts of 2 group and in 41 (80%) pts of 3 group. (1 group vs 2 group P<0,01; 1 group vs 2 group P<0,01; 2 group vs 3 group P>0,05). The mean number of new erosions was: 0,7±1,2, median 0 [25th percentile -75th percentile] [0- 1] in pts of 1 group; 3,4±4,3 median 2 [0- 4] in pts of 2 group;13,3±12, median 10 [3,5-18,5] in pts of 3 group, P <0,001 between each group. 11 pts of 3th group had short-term remission (< 6 months), the mean number of new erosions was13,5±17,2, median 3,5 [2-24.5] and there was no difference from pts of 3th group without short-term remission (40 pts) - the mean number of new erosions was 13,2±11, median 10 [4,5-18] P>0,05. Conclusions Thus, the remission ≥ 6 months is correlated with development significantly less numbers of new bone erosions, than persistent low and particularly, moderate activity of RA. Duration of remission < 6 months not inhibit progression of joint damage. Disclosure of Interest None Declared


We measured daily dietary Cr intake in southern Spain by sampling duplicate diets for seven consecutive days in different population groups. Cr was determined by electrothermal atomization–atomic absorption spectrometry. The samples were mineralized in a digestion block with HNO3, HClO4 and V2O5. A total of 161 duplicate diets from twenty-three subjects were analysed, and mean levels of Cr intake ranged from 9·39 to 205·16 μg/d. Mean Cr intake (100 μg/d) was similar to levels found for most other countries, and was within the range recommended by the National Research Council for a safe and adequate daily intake (50–200 μg/d). Chromium intake correlated significantly with energy, protein and carbohydrate intake, and with the daily intake of Zn, Fe, Mg, K, Na, Ca and nicotinic acid in the diets analysed.


The effect of head saturation on the signal spectrum in high-density tape recording has been investigated using a simple model for the recording process and a finite-difference model for the head. Phase relationships in the recording process are incorporated by utilizing the angularly dependent switching behavior of a two-particle simplified system. The recording process under saturation is shown to depend on the achievable deep gap field since the head field shape changes only slightly. Scanning-Kerr-microscope assessment of saturation is shown to differ from that of a micro-loop. >


Herpes simplex virus accounts for 10 to 25% of sporadic viral encephalitis throughout the world among people of different age with two peaks, one at 5 to 30 and the other at > 50 years of age. Pathologic process includes focal brain tissue inflammation and necrosis (predominantly temporal lobe). Therefore local neurological signs and symptoms will ensue. Although CSF pressure rising due to inflammation is expected, papilledema which is defined as a noninflammatory congestion of optic disk due to raised intracranial pressure has not yet been mentioned as a sign of focal encephalitis. In this article we report a 24 year-old patient with headache, fever and some degree of cognitive disorder who was definitely diagnosed (with MRI and PCR technique) and treated for herpes encephalitis. Unexpectedly he had papilledema which led to more investigation. Most signs and symptoms disappeared during two weeks of intravenous acyclovir therapy as did papilledema to some extent. In this case, positive CSF PCR test for HSV confirmed the diagnosis. However it seems that along with starting acyclovir therapy, performing other supplementary studies (e.g. CT scan, MRI with and without I.V. contrast, CSF cytology and serologic tests for HIV) to rule out other conditions that may be associated with papilledema and focal neurological signs (like malignancies), is mandatory.


Background Remission in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is increasingly possible in recent years with a treat-to-target strategy. It would be of value to recognize baseline variables that are potential predictors of remission. Objectives To analyze baseline RA core data set and demographic variables as potential predictors of remission at 6 or 12 months in the ESPOIR usual care cohort of early RA. Methods The ESPOIR usual care cohort includes patients with early RA who had baseline DAS28 ≥5.1. Three remission criteria were studied: ACR/EULAR Boolean – most stringent "gold standard" [1]; DAS28 ≤2.6 – predictors of remission in early RA have been reported [2]; and RAPID3RJ1 (RAPID3 ≤3 and ≤1 swollen joint) – similar results to the Boolean criteria [3]. Baseline variables were compared according to remission status 6 or 12 months later for each of 3 criteria, using univariate and multivariate regression models. Results 664 patients had available data. Remission at either 6 or 12 months was seen in 165 patients (24.8%) by Boolean criteria, 339 (51.4%) by DAS28, and 209 (31.5%) by RAPID3RJ1. Age and tender joint count were associated independently with remission by all 3 criteria in multivariate analyses (Table). Female gender, family history of RA, patient and physician global estimates, physical function, swollen joint counts and ESR were predictive in some models, although odds ratios were not substantial. Disease duration, radiographic erosions, CRP, anti-CCP and rheumatoid factor were not significant to predict remission by any of the 3 criteria, and therefore not entered into any multivariate models. Conclusions Younger age and lower initial number of tender joints were significant, while erosions, CRP, anti-CCP and rheumatoid factor were not significant to predict RA remission 6 or 12 months later according to any of the 3 criteria. References Felson DT, Smolen JS, Wells G, et al. Arthritis Rheum 2011;63:573-86. Ma MH, Ibrahim F, Walker D, et al. J Rheumatol 2012;39:470-5. Castrejón I, Dougados M, Combe B, et al. J Rheumatol 2013; in press. Disclosure of Interest None Declared


Isolated cardiac Ca,Mg-dependent ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and purified phospholamban, a proteolipid involved in the regulation of the calcium transport systems of the heart muscle, were reconstituted into soybean lecithin liposomes. Whereas the enzymatic activity of the CaATPase in the obtained liposomes was unaffected as well as by unphosphorylated and cAMP-dependent phosphorylated phospholamban, the capacity of oxalate-supported calcium uptake was lowered in the presence of phospholamban. The proteolipid is discussed not as a regulatory protein of the enzyme but as a mediator of the calcium storage in the lumen of the liposomes or sarcoplasmic reticulum network.


We present two parallel algorithms for constructing the Voronoi diagram of a. aet of n > 0 line segments in the plane: a) The first algorithm runs in 000g2 n) time using O(n) processors. This im proves the previous best results (by A. Chow and also by Aggarwal, Chazelle, Guibas, 6'Dunlaing and Yap) in two respects. First we improve the running time by a factor of O(logn) and second the original results allow only aets ofpointa. b) By using O(n1+() processors. for any f. > 0, we improve the running time to 00ogn). This is the fastest known algorithm uaing a subquadratic number of processors. The results combine a number of techniques: a new O(logn) method for point loca tion in certain tree-shaped Voronoi diagrams, a method of Aggarwal et al for reducing contour tracing to merging tree-shaped Voronoi diagrams, and a technique of Yap for computing the Voronoi diagrams of line segments. The computational model we use is the CREW PRAM (Concurrent-Read, Exclusive-Write Parallel RAM).


Millennials live in an era that has high mobility and connected to the internet, thus impacting their desire to transact through an online platform. The results of this study indicate that online purchase intentions for Indonesian millennial are not affected by perceived of risk and social influences. But they still pay attention to the factors of perceived ease, usefulness, and price perceptions. The results of this study strengthen and develop the technology acceptance model theory by adding price perceptions, in addition to perceptions of ease and perceived usefulness in adopting the latest technology, online shopping at e-commerce Shopee Indonesia. That is the uniqueness of the result of this research. This research uses quantitative methods, with a sample of 260 respondents, determined using purposive sampling. Data were collected using an online questionnaire with an ordinal scale and analyzed using multiple linear analysis techniques assisted by software SPSS 23.0.


The control of the molecular weight distribution of poly(propylene) resins by peroxide degradation is widely used in polymer industry. It allows to adjust the viscosity of these resins to the level required for processing applications. The purpose of this work was to characterise the influence of peroxide degradation on the rheological behaviour of an homopolymer PP and a block copolymer PP/PE, and to use these results to obtain a predictive model of the degradation in a twin-screw extruder. By coupling a thermomechanical model of the twin-screw extrusion process, a kinetic model of the considered reactions and the rheological behaviour, it was possible to calculate the changes in molecular weight along the extruder, during the peroxide-controlled degradation.


Purpose A buried penis causes voiding dysfunction and limits penetrative sexual intercourse. This pilot study evaluates the urinary outcomes in men with buried penis following insertion of malleable penile implants. Materials and Methods Men with buried penis and co-existing urinary problems and erectile dysfunction underwent malleable penile prosthesis implantation were reviewed in a prospective ethics approved database. Patient demographics, flow rate (Qmax), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) score, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5 score, Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) and overall satisfaction score (on a 5-point scale) were recorded. Results A total of 12 men (age 55 to 72 years) were reviewed, and the average gain in penile length post-implant, as measured from the pubis to the tip of the glans penis, was 6.8 (3 to 8) cm. There was a significant improvement in IIEF-5 score (8.2 vs. 22.5; p=0.029) post-implant, and more than half of patients were able to resume normal sexual intercourse and positive SEP-2 and SEP-4 were reported in 9 (75%) and 8 (67%) patients. There were no significant intraoperative or postoperative complication. Significant improvement in Qmax (8.4 ml/s vs. 18.6 ml/s; p=0.042) and IPSS (24.5±5.5 vs 15.5±3.5; p=0.038) were observed. More than two-thirds (83%) reported PGI-I score at 1 or 2, while 9 (75%) patients scored a 5/5 in overall satisfaction rate. Conclusions Malleable penile implants increases penile length and improves urinary function in a highly select group of men with a buried penis and erectile dysfunction.


The purpose of this thesis is to examine the general principles of European administrative law, recognized and interpreted by the European Court of Justice. An understanding of these fundamental elements of law is, therefore, vital to any study not only of the European Union law but also of the national legal system itself. Moreover the impact of these principles is pervasive: they are relevant in all branches and at all levels of the EU law. Because of the fundamental importance of the European principles for the development of administrative law, the first chapter of this study aims to identify the European principles that are more innovative for the national administrative activity. The second chapter analyzes the implications of article 1, paragraph 1, of the 7 August 1990, n. 241 Law, that was modified by the 11 February 2005, n.15 Law with the intent of enriching the catalogue of the general principles of administrative action. After the identification of the most important European principles for the action of the Public Administration and after the clarification of the scope and effect of the reference to «the principles of Community law», contained in the Article 1, paragraph 1, of Law n. 241/1990, the third chapter examines the national system of an administrative act contrary to European Union law. In this context, the final part of this thesis analyzes the influence of European legal order on the rules of liability for damages of the national Public Administration.