Neural networks can be trained to solve partial differential equations (PDEs) by using the PDE residual as the loss function. This strategy is called"physics-informed neural networks"(PINNs), but it currently cannot produce high-accuracy solutions, typically attaining about $0.1\%$ relative error. We present an adversarial approach that overcomes this limitation, which we call competitive PINNs (CPINNs). CPINNs train a discriminator that is rewarded for predicting mistakes the PINN makes. The discriminator and PINN participate in a zero-sum game with the exact PDE solution as an optimal strategy. This approach avoids squaring the large condition numbers of PDE discretizations, which is the likely reason for failures of previous attempts to decrease PINN errors even on benign problems. Numerical experiments on a Poisson problem show that CPINNs achieve errors four orders of magnitude smaller than the best-performing PINN. We observe relative errors on the order of single-precision accuracy, consistently decreasing with each epoch. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first time this level of accuracy and convergence behavior has been achieved. Additional experiments on the nonlinear Schr\"odinger, Burgers', and Allen-Cahn equation show that the benefits of CPINNs are not limited to linear problems.


Abstract Although scholars have made considerable progress on a number of important research questions by relaxing assumptions commonly used to divide political science into subfields, rigid boundaries remain in some contexts. In this essay, we suggest that the assumption that international politics is characterized by anarchy whereas domestic politics is characterized by hierarchy continues to divide research on the conditions under which governments are constrained by courts, international or domestic. We contend that we will learn more about the process by which courts constrain governments, and do so more quickly, if we relax the assumption and recognize the substantial similarities between domestic and international research on this topic. We review four recent books that highlight contemporary theories of the extent to which domestic and international law binds states, and discuss whether a rigid boundary between international and domestic scholarship can be sustained on either theoretical or empirical grounds.


The relationship between lead related subject symptoms and lead exposure indices was studied in 435 male lead workers in thirteen lead using industries. 212 male office workers who were not exposed to lead occupationally were also studied as a control group. Fourteen lead related symptoms were selected. They were further subdivied into 4 sub-symptom groups such as 1) gastrointestinal, 2) neuromuscular and joint 3) constitutional, and 4) psychological symptoms. Symptom questionnaires were provided to the workers and filled up by themselves and reconfirmed by interviewer(doctor). The test used fer the evaluation of lead exposure were blood lead(PbB), zinc protoporphyrin in whole blood(ZPP), hemoglobin(Hb), hematocrit (Hct), delta-aminolevulinic acid in urine(DALA). The results obtained were as follows; 1. The higher prevalence rate in the sub-group of neuromuscular and joint symptoms was observed in occupationally lead exposed subjects than non-exposed subjects. Among the sub-groups, the most frequent symptom was 'numbness of finger, hands or feet', and the prevalence of the symptom of 'arthralgia', 'weakness of fingers, hands or feet' and 'myalgia' were higher in order. 2. While the symptom which showed the biggest difference of prevalence rate among the 14 symptoms between exposed and non-exposed subjects was 'numbness of fingers, hands or feet', the symptom which showed the highest prevalence rate was 'feeling tired generally' in exposed and non-exposed subjects, but no statistical difference of symptom prevalence were observed. 3. In total study population, PbB and ZPP had dose-response relationship with 4 symtoms of neuromuscular and joint symptoms ('numbness of finger, hands or feet', 'arthralgia', 'weakness of fingers, hands or feet' and 'myalgia') and one symptom of gastrointestinal group('intermittent pains in lower abdomen'). 4. In lead exposed workers, only neuromuscular and joint symptoms group showed dose-response relationship with PbB and ZPP, 5. In lead exposed workers, the prevalance rate of overall symptoms of lead workers with age below 39 years was higher than that of lead workers with age above 40. While neuromuscular and joint symptoms group had a dose-response relationship with PbB in former group, it had a dose-response relationship with ZPP in latter group. 6. Age adjusted odds ratios of symptoms of non-exposed with exposed and odds ratios of low exposed with high exposed workers showed the dose-response relationship of lead exposure with neuromuscular and joint symptoms group('numbness of fingers, hands or feet', 'arthralgia', 'weakness of fingers, hands or feet' and 'myalgia') and gastrointestinal symptoms group('intermittent pains in lower abdoman').


The implementation of the LINCS storage system, a fast, scalable, distributed storage system implemented on top of the Unix operating system, is discussed. The focus is on satisfying the performance requirements of a large-scale storage system. A number of kernel modifications and additions were made to overcome a number of Unix kernel deficiencies. These deficiencies included the lack of a lightweight tasking facility in the kernel, process-blocked I/O (input/output), inefficient data copies between user and system space, and the lack of optimized drivers for leading-edge storage devices. >


We have carried out a first-principles study of the elastic properties and electronic structure for two roomtemperature stable Pt silicide phases, tetragonal a-Pt2Si, and orthorhombic PtSi. We have calculated all of the equilibrium structural parameters for both phases: the a and c lattice constants for a-Pt2Si and the a, b, and c lattice constants and four internal structural parameters for PtSi. These results agree closely with experimental data. We have also calculated the zero-pressure elastic constants, confirming prior results for pure Pt and Si and predicting values for the six ~nine! independent, nonzero elastic constants of a-Pt2Si ~PtSi!. These calculations include a full treatment of all relevant internal displacements induced by the elastic strains, including an explicit determination of the dimensionless internal displacement parameters for the three strains in a-Pt2Si for which they are nonzero. We have analyzed the trends in the calculated elastic constants, both within each material as well as among the two silicides and the pure Pt and Si phases. The calculated electronic structure confirms that the two silicides are poor metals with a low density of states at the Fermi level, and consequently we expect that the Drude component of the optical absorption will be much smaller than in good metals such as pure Pt. This observation, combined with the topology found in the first-principles spin-orbit split band structure, suggests that it may be important to include the interband contribution to the optical absorption, even in the infrared region.


CEM leukemia cells selected for resistance to VM-26 (CEM/VM-1) are cross-resistant to various other DNA topoisomerase II inhibitors but not to Vinca alkaloids. Since DNA topoisomerase II is a major protein of the nuclear matrix, we asked if alterations in nuclear matrix topoisomerase II might be important in this form of multidrug resistance. Pretreatment of drug-sensitive CEM cells for 2 h with either 5 microM VM-26 or 3 microM m-AMSA reduced the specific activity of newly replicated DNA on the nuclear matrix by 75 and 50%, respectively, relative to that of the bulk DNA. However, neither VM-26 nor m-AMSA affected the relative specific activity of nascent DNA isolated from the nuclear matrices of drug-resistant CEM/VM-1 cells. The decatenating and unknotting activities of DNA topoisomerase II were 6- and 7-fold lower, respectively, in the nuclear matrix preparations from the CEM/VM-1 cells compared to parental CEM cells. Western blot analysis revealed that the amount of immunoreactive topoisomerase II in the nuclear matrices of the CEM/VM-1 cells was decreased 3.2-fold relative to that in CEM cells, but there was no significant difference in the amount of enzyme present in the nonmatrix (1.5 M salt soluble) fractions of nuclei from these cell lines. Increasing the NaCl concentration used in the matrix isolation procedure from 0.2 to 1.8 M resulted in a progressive decrease in the specific activity of topoisomerase II in matrices of CEM/VM-1 but not CEM cells, which suggested that the association of the enzyme with the matrix is altered in the resistant cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


The purpose of this study was to grasp the factors having influence upon the social adjustment of children in multi-cultural families and to examine the degree of influence of these influential factors. For these aims, it targeted 186 children of multi-cultural families, that access social welfare institutions or multi-cultural institutions in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk areas. The findings are as follows. First, the factors having influence upon the social adjustment of children in multi-cultural families were indicated to be self-esteem, parental marital relations, bullying, and the support of adults other than their parents. In other words, these children"s higher level of social adjustment was correlated with higher self-esteem, better parental marital relations, fewer bullying experiences from their peer group, and more support from adults other than their parents". Secondly, support from adults other than parents was indicated to be the most influential among the variables affecting the social adjustment of children in multi-cultural families. The factor having the second highest level of influence was indicated to be self-esteem, followed by parental marital relations, and then bullying.


The spectral performance of a grating-based optical microspectrometer fabricated in silicon is presented. Fabrication is based on IC-compatible micromachining with the optoelectronic components distributed over two silicon wafers. One wafer contains an aluminum-based grating and the other an array of polysilicon thermocouples. Device dimensions are typically 5/spl times/5/spl times/1 mm/sup 3/, with the optical path defined by an aligned wafer-to-wafer bond. The optical design constraints of this microsystem are discussed. Measurements confirm an infrared (IR) operating range between 2 and 5 /spl mu/m and spectral resolution R=10.


A series of borotellurite glass system doped with copper oxide was synthesized using the method of melt quenching. The density of the glass decreases whereas its molar volume increases in respect to copper oxide concentration. The amorphous nature of prepared glasses was proven with the utilisation of XRD spectra. Meanwhile, the glass samples' elastic properties are determined from the measurement of longitudinal and shear velocities using ultrasonic technique. The longitudinal modulus, shear modulus, bulk modulus and Young's modulus will show an irregular trend that fluctuates. FLUKA Monte Carlo code is implemented to determine the shielding features at gamma energy 0.3565, 0.6616, 0.8348 and 1.3325 MeV. Linear attenuation coefficients acquired from FLUKA and XCOM are found to be in good agreement with relative difference < 1%. The glass sample B2O3TeO2CuO1 (with highest percentage of TeO2) is found to be the best shielding glass material in this study.


This study is concerned with the League of Arab States as an expression of the pan-Arab movement. The activities of the League from 194-5 to 1955 are analysed in order to illuminate a passing phase in Arab nationalism.

Part One of this thesis is an analysis of Islam and some of its political and sociological concepts which have shaped the present Arab trends. This approach allows one to consider the intricate relationship between pan- Islamisn and pan-Arabism.

Part Two covers the diplomatic activities, inside as well as outside the Arab world, which led to the birth of the League. Inter-Arab relations, during the Second World War, are studied on the basis of the documentation which has been published by the League about the Arab consultations which preceded the signing of the Charter in March 1945.

In Part Three, the work of the League during its first ten years is assessed and evaluated in terns of inter-Arab relations, in particular, and international relations, in general. The emphasis is one the political activities. The Palestinian question is treated as an "Arab tragedy" rather than as an Arab-Zionist conflict.

The Conclusion is more concerned with Arab nationalism as a movement striving for Arab unity and seeking a doctrine, than with the League which is taken as a transitory institution reflecting inter-Arab tensions and the handicaps in the way of Arab aspirations.


Incorporating connectivity into the design of marine protected areas (MPAs) has met with conceptual, theoretical, and practical challenges, which include: 1) the need to consider connectivity for multiple species with different dispersal abilities, and 2) the role played by variable habitat quality in determining the spatial patterns of connectivity. We propose an innovative approach, combining biophysical modeling with a routinely-used tool for marine-reserve design (Marxan), to address both challenges by using ecologically-informed connectivity parameters. We showed how functional demographic connectivity for four candidate reef-associated species with varying dispersal abilities and a suite of connectivity metrics weighted by habitat quality can be used to set conservation objectives and inform MPA placement. Overall, the strength of dispersal barriers varied across modeled species and, also across species, we found a lack of spatial concordance of reefs that were high-quality sources, self-persistent, and stepping-stones. Including spatially-heterogeneous habitat quality made a considerable difference to connectivity patterns, significantly reducing the potential reproductive output from many reefs. We also found that caution is needed in combining connectivity data from modeled species into multi-species matrices, which do not perform reliably as surrogates for all connectivity metrics of individual species. We then showed that restricting the habitat available for conservation has an inequitable impact on different connectivity objectives and species, with greatest impact on betweenness centrality and long-distance dispersers. We used Brazilian coral reefs as a case study but our approach is applicable to both marine and terrestrial conservation planning, and offers a holistic way to design functionally-connected reserves to tackle the complex issues relevant to planning for persistence.


During the course of his short but extraordinary life, John Ledyard (1751--1789) came in contact with some of the most remarkable figures of his era: the British explorer Captain James Cook, American financier Robert Morris, Revolutionary naval commander John Paul Jones, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and others. Ledyard lived and traveled in remarkable places as well, journeying from the New England backcountry to Tahiti, Hawaii, the American Northwest coast, Alaska, and the Russian Far East. In this engaging biography, the historian Edward Gray offers not only a full account of Ledyard's eventful life but also an illuminating view of the late eighteenth-century world in which he lived. Ledyard was both a product of empire and an agent in its creation, Gray shows, and through this adventurer's life it is possible to discern the many ways empire shaped the lives of nations, peoples, and individuals in the era of the American Revolution, the world's first modern revolt against empire.


Peuyeumisasi derived from Peuyeum word which means is tapai made from fermented cassava by involving the activity of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Research conducted from the beginning to the process of testing the Temperature Monitoring System in peuyeumisasi process can be concluded that: Measurement of temperature in peuyeumisasi process to keep the waste temperature remain optimal during the peuyeumisasi process. Temperature montoring system is done automatically and integrated with computer. Tools that provide relevant temperature data information and provide action when the temperature is not optimal.


This research guide is intended for individuals studying molecular biosciences. It contains suggested resources for articles, books, databases, and more.


We analyze BICEP2 and Planck data using a model that includes CMB lensing, gravity waves, and polarized dust. Recently published Planck dust polarization maps have highlighted the difficulty of estimating the amount of dust polarization in low intensity regions, suggesting that the polarization fractions have considerable uncertainties and may be significantly higher than previous predictions. In this paper, we start by assuming nothing about the dust polarization except for the power spectrum shape, which we take to be ClBB,dust ∝ l-2.42. The resulting joint BICEP2+Planck analysis favors solutions without gravity waves, and the upper limit on the tensor-to-scalar ratio is r<0.11, a slight improvement relative to the Planck analysis alone which gives r<0.13 (95% c.l.). The estimated amplitude of the dust polarization power spectrum agrees with expectations for this field based on both HI column density and Planck polarization measurements at 353 GHz in the BICEP2 field. Including the latter constraint on the dust spectrum amplitude in our analysis improves the limit further to r < 0.09, placing strong constraints on theories of inflation (e.g., models with r>0.14 are excluded with 99.5% confidence). We address the cross-correlation analysis of BICEP2 at 150 GHz with BICEP1 at 100 GHz as a test of foreground contamination. We find that the null hypothesis of dust and lensing with 0r= gives Δ χ2 < 2 relative to the hypothesis of no dust, so the frequency analysis does not strongly favor either model over the other. We also discuss how more accurate dust polarization maps may improve our constraints. If the dust polarization is measured perfectly, the limit can reach r < 0.05 (or the corresponding detection significance if the observed dust signal plus the expected lensing signal is below the BICEP2 observations), but this degrades quickly to almost no improvement if the dust calibration error is 20% or larger or if the dust maps are not processed through the BICEP2 pipeline, inducing sampling variance noise.


NOX1, a member of the NOX family of NADPH oxidases, is expressed primarily in colon epithelium, where it may function in host defense and growth regulation. We investigated factors responsible for its transcriptional regulation in vitro and its expression in vivo. Analysis of promoter constructs in the CaCo2 cell line identified a complex element between -422 and -291 critical for promoter activity. This element contained four sites that bound GATA-4, -5, and -6 in vitro with varied affinities. One site also bound the caudal-related homeodomain proteins Cdx1 and Cdx2, whereas another also bound hepatocyte nuclear factor-1alpha (HNF-1alpha). GATA-6, HNF-1alpha, and Cdx2 also bound to this region in the intact chromatin of CaCo2 cells. These factors demonstrated cooperativity when transactivating the NOX1 promoter. NOX1 mRNA was detected in human colon epithelial cells along the crypt-villus axis. A gradient of NOX1 mRNA expression was seen in the colons of normal as well as germ-free mice, with significantly higher levels in distal compared with proximal segments. The expression gradients of NOX1 mRNA in the colon paralleled those of GATA-6, HNF-1alpha, and Cdx1. These data indicate that developmental, tissue-restricted transcription factors play a key role in NOX1 regulation in vivo.


This paper presents a multithreading technique to enhance the branch and bound method in determining the optimal expansion planning of a distributed generation. In such analysis, there are many factors that need to be considered due to a vast number of components and total contingency states for a large distribution system. In this context, the main issue of the existing method is due to its limitation which only allows a single computational process to perform the whole total contingency states for a large distribution system. Therefore, a large number of iterative computations have to be executed sequentially which is done one after another state. This problem can be solved by eliminating the sequential constraint that is the analysis on each contingency state is performed concurrently by converting the iterative computations into parallel processing threads. In this manner, excessive computations can be reduced into a single and shorter execution time. Besides that, other advantages of adopting multithreading technique include the improvement of extensive computer processor utilization and also to enable distributed calculation across multiple computers.


In this study, we examine the effect of managerial and technical competencies of information technology (IT) professionals on their salaries. Based on a large nationally representative dataset of more than 55,000 IT professionals in the U.S. for the period 1999-2002, we find that both managerial and technical competencies have a significant effect on salaries of IT professionals. In contrast with findings of previous studies, we find that compared to firms in other industries, firms in the IT industry pay a significant amount of premium to IT professionals. Our results also show that IT professionals in the non-profit and governmental sector receive less compensation compared to their counterparts in the for-profit sectors of the economy. Similar to the dotcom effect for abnormal returns in stock markets, we observe a pronounced dotcom effect in salaries of IT professionals during the 1999-2002 period. Our findings provide evidence of pronounced wage inequalities on the basis of gender and male IT professionals receive 7.8% more in total compensation than their female counterparts. Finally, we estimate the causal effect of MBA education on the salaries of IT professionals using a matching estimator and demonstrate how bounding such a matching estimator provides an assessment of sensitivity of estimated causal effects with respect to selection due to unobservable factors.


Madam,
This monsoon season's floods from mid-July 2022 onwards have proven to be the most catastrophic climate disaster in Pakistan's history, flooding a third of the country, killing more than 1290 people, and forcing a staggering 634,000 people to take refuge in relief camps [1]. Furthermore, of greater concern is the implications of the floods on already fragile healthcare infrastructure in a country with a weak economy and limited fund allocation for Health Services. In this regard, the World Health Organization has reported damage to 1460 health facilities; 432 are inoperable and 1,028 were partially destroyed [1]. Considering the deficit of healthcare centres, and medical professionals and the availability of medications in low-lying, agricultural, and rural setups of the major provinces, the transmission of infectious diseases is inevitable. Subsequently, there is a significant concern surrounding the feasibility of relief camps set up, where overcrowding of displaced individuals, lack of proper sanitation and sewage systems, and inadequate hygienic food further stimulate communicable disease spread.
Notably, the stagnant water surface remaining after flood water recedes serves as an ideal reservoir for mosquito vector growth and hence transmission of infectious diseases such as malaria and dengue affecting vulnerable populations, primarily the refugees in congested camps lacking basic sanitation and insecticidal net beds to sleep under. Moreover, overcrowding and destruction of sewage systems causing water contamination could lead to the oral-faecal transfer of gastrointestinal pathogens, causative agents of diarrheal diseases [2]. Cholera is the most prevalent infectious disease outcome of the floods as evidenced by reports of 115 922 cases of acute diarrhoea in KPK in the aftermath of the summer 2010 floods [2]. In addition, one of the major concerns identified among the displaced population is the alarming number of pregnant women in dire need of proper medical and residential facilities to facilitate their infants. In this context, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), released a startling estimate of 650,000 pregnant women affected by floods of which over 73,000 are expected to deliver within a month [3]. UNFPA has set a precedent by providing 8,311 dignity kits, 7,411 newborn baby kits, and 6,412 clean delivery kits. However, this would not be enough considering the magnitude of mass displacement [3].
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This paper presents design, implementation, and measurement results for a reconfigurable surface acoustic wave (SAW) resonator using monolithically integrated vanadium dioxide (VO2) switches. The frequency of the resonator is tuned between two different states from 700 MHz to 720 MHz while the resonator maintains a quality factor better than 350 over the tuning range. The use of vanadium dioxide switches, which are only a few tens of micrometers in size, allows the monolithic integration with the SAW resonator. This enables the practical implementation of a reconfigurable SAW resonator, for the first time, without any major performance degradation or increase in the size of the resonator. The proposed resonator structure can be utilized to develop compact tunable SAW filters for wireless applications.


Abstract This paper provides a summary of selected diamond exploration techniques used in the glaciated terrain of Canada, focusing on indicator mineral methods and till geochemistry but also including geochemistry of lake sediments and vegetation. Diamond exploration in Canada focuses on kimberlite, the primary host rock for diamonds in this country. Kimberlite is a mineralogically and chemically distinct point source which may yield discrete dispersal trains in glacial sediments. Understanding the ice flow history and depositional history of glacial sediments and identifying multiple till sheets in areas covered by thick glacial sediments are essential for successful sampling, interpretation and follow-up of indicator mineral and geochemical anomalies related to these rocks. Orientation studies over known kimberlites provide important information on the mineralogical and geochemical signatures of kimberlite, and the size fractions of glacial sediments that are best suited to indicator mineral and geochemical analysis. Kimberlite indicator minerals survive glacial transport over long distances and the relative abundance of each mineral in till is a function of the primary mineralogy of individual kimberlites. Indicator mineral distributions observed at a regional scale define the net effect of glacial dispersal, often along different ice flow directions. Local scale distributions define individual dispersal trains. The finer (0.25 to 0.5 mm) fraction of heavy mineral concentrates prepared from till samples is best suited for indicator mineral surveys. Till geochemistry is gaining popularity in diamond exploration because it is significantly cheaper than indicator mineral analysis and it can be performed quickly. Important kimberlite pathfinder elements that provide good contrast in till geochemical surveys include Ni, Cr, Ba, Co, Sr, Rb, Nb, Mg, Ta, Ca, Fe, K, Ti and REE, the relative importance of which will depend on kimberlite composition as well as that of the surrounding bedrock. Biogeochemical studies over kimberlites in Canada reveal geochemical signatures in vegetation despite the glacially transported substrate.


Evaluation of ship handling mental workload/training has usually depended on professionals (captain, pilot) who have a lot of experience on board. We are attempting to evaluate a ship navigator's mental workload (stress) based on a physiological index. The physiological indices, heart rate variability (R‐R interval) and nasal temperature, are good indices of the stress found in ship handling. It is best if we get response and evaluation results quickly on the spot. A recent study shows salivary amylase activity is induced by the sympathetic nervous system; however, a research on ship navigator has not yet accepted worldwide. This article proposes that salivary amylase activity shows a ship navigator's stress during ship handling. Copyright © 2009 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.


Imazaquin {2-[4,5-dihydro-4-methyl-4-(1-methylethyl)-5-oxo-1H-imidazol-2-yl]-3-quinolinecarboxylic acid} was evaluated in the field for weed control in flue-cured tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) during 1983 and 1984. The 75 DG formulation of imazaquin was used at 0.28 and 0.42 kg ai/ha. Methods of application were: preplant incorporated, over the top immediately after transplanting, postbed incorporated, and early postemergence. Imazaquin controlled 90%, or better, of common lambsquarters (Chenopodium album L. # CHEAL), common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. # AMBEL), redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus L. # AMARE), spiny amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus L. # AMASP), ivyleaf morningglory [Ipomoea hederacea (L.) Jacq. # IPOHE], sicklepod (Cassia obtusifolia L. # CASOB), and prickly sida (Sida spinosa L. # SIDSP) with all application methods except early postemergence. It controlled 80 to 89% of large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis L. # DIGSA) by the soil-applied methods. Postemergence applications of imazaquin controlled common ragweed, pigweed spp., ivyleaf morningglory, prickly sida, and sicklepod. Imazaquin was less effective postemergence on lambsquarters and large crabgrass. Tobacco tolerated use of imazaquin by all methods of application except preplant incorporation.


This paper exhibits two approaches of refrigerant comparison for the retrofitting process in 1.5 ton capacity room air conditioning system. One is experimentation that was conducted for selected refrigerants using air conditioner test rig and calculate cycle performance analysis, another one is the simulation process by utilizing software like ASPENONE (aspen V8). With this software we can simulate the cyclic process of VCR system to work out the thermo physical properties of three refrigerants R22, R134a, and R32.The performance parameters includes the real coefficient of performance, mass flow rate, and power passed to the compressor. Under the class A2L ASHARE standers R32 has been accepted as safety group refrigerant because the atmospheric life for R22 is 15 years and for R32 is 4.9 years. By taking these performance results and simulation results the R32 is the efficient refrigerant for the retrofitting of an air conditioning system. Keywords: Refrigerant, global warming potential, ozone depletion potential, Retrofitting process, and Simulation analysis.


Nitric oxide (NO) is synthesized from l-arginine by the Ca(2+)/calmodulin-sensitive endothelial NO synthase (NOS) isoform (eNOS). The present study assesses the role of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMK II) in endothelium-dependent relaxation and NO synthesis. The effects of three CaMK II inhibitors were investigated in endothelium-intact aortic rings of normotensive rats. NO synthesis was assessed by a NO sensor and chemiluminescence in culture medium of cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells stimulated with the Ca(2+) ionophore A23187 and thapsigargin. Rat aortic endothelial NOS activity was measured by the conversion of l-[(3)H]arginine to l-[(3)H]citrulline. Three CaMK II inhibitors, polypeptide 281-302, KN-93, and lavendustin C, attenuated the endothelium-dependent relaxation of endothelium-intact rat aortic rings in response to acetylcholine, A23187, and thapsigargin. None of the CaMK II inhibitors affected the relaxation induced by NO donors. In a porcine aortic endothelial cell line, KN-93 decreased NO synthesis and caused a rightward shift of the concentration-response curves to A23187 and thapsigargin. In rat aortic endothelial cells, KN-93 significantly decreased bradykinin-induced eNOS activity. These results suggest that CaMK II was involved in NO synthesis as a result of Ca(2+)-dependent activation of eNOS.


This paper will take stock of the economic performance of Europe and the Arab world, examining how they can do better by working together. The paper pays special attention to the trade, investment, migration and energy linkages between the two regions, as well as those among the Arab countries, as well as how they can be improved to achieve better development. Whereas we present a southern perspective, with Arab countries as main focus, the purpose is to understand the constraints facing both regions, and come up with measures that benefit all parties. The paper begins with a brief overview of Europe and MENA's economic performance compared to their peers. It goes on to examine the linkages between the two regions as viewed by the MENA region. These include trade, in which energy plays an especially important role, migration, both voluntary and involuntary, and investment. The paper then discusses the political preconditions for advancing on reforms, especially on those that exploit the latent synergies between the two regions, and their feasibility. It concludes with some critical policy recommendations.


In awake sensitized ponies, we studied the effect of aerosol ovalbumin challenge on ventilation, pulmonary mechanics, lung volume, and gas exchange before and after vagal blockade. We also challenged the left lung and measured respiratory rate (f) and right and left respiratory system resistance (RrsR, RrsL) before and after both left and bilateral vagal section. Bilateral ovalbumin aerosol challenge increased f, minute ventilation (VE), total respiratory system resistance (Rrs), and minimal volume, decreased dynamic compliance, total lung capacity, and arterial oxygen tension, and was without effect on tidal volume (VT), functional residual capacity, quasi-static lung compliance, and arterial carbon dioxide tension. Vagal blockade reversed the increase in f, VE, and Rrs and increased VT. Challenge of the left lung increased f and RrsL but did not alter RrsR. Bilateral vagal section reversed the tachypnea but unilateral section did not. Histopathologic lesions included acute fibrinopurulent obstructive bronchiolitis, bronchitis, edema, and alveolar distension. We conclude that local mechanisms are of critical importance in the pathogenesis of ovalbumin-induced airway obstruction in ponies, that increased sensitivity of airway smooth muscle to normal vagal tone may also play a role, and that tachypnea following challenge is caused by activity of pulmonary receptors with vagal afferent fibers.


The care sector is highly significant to Australia, providing nearly 20% of all paid employment, and worth an estimated $762.5 billion in 2009-10 ($112.4 billion paid care and $650.1 billion imputed value of unpaid care). • Care work is highly significant to the Australian society and economy. Care work affects all aspects of the community, and thus has a significant influence upon the social and economic wellbeing of a nation. The care sector must be identified as a discrete part of the Australian economy because the overall wellbeing of a nation is reflected in its human capital infrastructure. Both paid and unpaid carers work in the areas of education and health and provide assistance to community members suffering from mental illness, chronic ill-health, terminal illness, disability and the frail aged. The volunteer sector is a key component of the care economy. The labour involved in providing this assistance is known as 'care work'. Although there is vast literature on different aspects of the Australian care economy, until recently there has been no comprehensive mapping of it. Given the complexity of care work and its profound social and economic implications for a nation, it is crucial that this sector is defined and valued as a distinct segment of economic activity. In June 2010, economic Security4Women (eS4W), a national women's alliance under the Australian Government's Office for Women, prepared Scoping the Australian Care Economy - A Gender Equity Perspective (Adams, 2010). This report recognised the importance of the care economy and made a series of recommendations to address some of the issues facing the sector. Adams' report highlighted that the lack of "comprehensive mapping" of the Australian care economy (which encompasses both microeconomic and macroeconomic factors) was a limitation. In order to rectify this lack, the Counting on Care work project was designed to replicate similar work completed in Massachusetts and, for the first time, quantify the Australian care economy. This report highlights the highly gendered nature of the care sector in the implications this has for women and the nation's economy. To further the scope of its report, eS4W engaged AECgroup to: • Examine the three intersecting spheres of paid care work, unpaid care work and government investment in the care sector; • Examine the labour and resources devoted to the daily care of Australians, in particular: Children and those who are elderly or disabled; Provision of Kindergarten to year 12 education;and Provision of health care to both well and sick citizens regardless of age; • Develop categories, concepts and measures of care work to enable international comparisons; and• Include policy recommendations in the final report for future advocacy work. This project differs from those already undertaken in Australia due to the inclusion of the formal care sector, the government investment in the care sector and the inclusion of informal care of Australians who are neither disabled nor ill. ________________ eS4W's "Counting on the Care Economy" report was launched on the 19th September in Canberra. For a copy of the report and eS4W Policy Paper click the links below. AEC Report – Counting on Care Work in Australia Final Report eS4WPolicyPaperCareEconomy2012 ________________ Hoenig, S.A., and Page. A.R.E., (2012). Counting on Care Work in Australia. Report prepared by AECgroup Limited for economic Security4Women, Australia. ________________ Image: McBeth / flickr


We propose a new timing error detector for timing tracking loops inside the Rake receiver in spread spectrum systems. Based on a particle filter, this timing error detector jointly tracks the delays of each path of the frequency-selective channels. Instead of using a conventional channel estimator, we have introduced a joint time delay and channel estimator with almost no additional computational complexity. The proposed scheme avoids the drawback of the classical early-late gate detector which is not able to separate closely spaced paths. Simulation results show that the proposed detectors outperform the conventional early-late gate detector in indoor scenarios.


Fragment-based drug design was successfully applied to maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK). A low affinity (160 μM) fragment hit was identified, which bound to the hinge region with an atypical binding mode, and this was optimized using structure-based design into a low-nanomolar and cell-penetrant inhibitor, with a good selectivity profile, suitable for use as a chemical probe for elucidation of MELK biology.


1. Reciprocal inhibition between antagonist muscle groups at the ankle has been investigated in sixty healthy subjects. Hoffmann reflexes (H reflexes) in the soleus and tibialis anterior muscles were used to assess changes in reciprocal inhibition evoked by electrical stimulation of antagonist muscle nerves. 2. Inhibition of the soleus H reflex was evoked by a single conditioning stimulus to the common peroneal nerve, and inhibition of the tibialis anterior H reflex was elicited by one conditioning stimulus to the posterior tibial nerve. Symmetrical central connections between the antagonist flexors and extensors were assumed and under this assumption the central delay for the inhibition, in addition to the delay for monosynaptic Ia excitation, was calculated to be about 1 ms. The inhibition was evoked by weak stimuli to the nerves from antagonist muscle groups; the threshold for the inhibition was around 0.6 X threshold for a direct motor response (M‐threshold). Furthermore, tendon taps to the Achilles tendon facilitated the soleus H reflex and inhibited the tibialis anterior reflex at short latencies. The short central delay, the low electrical threshold and the.actions of Achilles tendon taps strongly suggest that the early reciprocal inhibition is homologous to the disynaptic Ia inhibition previously studied in animal experiments. 3. With the test soleus H reflex kept at 15‐25% of the maximum directly evoked motor response (M‐response) and the strength of the conditioning peroneal nerve stimulation kept at 1.0 X M‐threshold, the inhibition from the peroneal nerve ranged between 0 and 40% (mean, 14.9%) at rest. 4. Changes in the amount of reciprocal inhibition from the peroneal nerve were studied both during tonic and dynamic dorsi‐ and plantarflexion. During tonic dorsiflexion there was no significant change of inhibition as compared to rest, while inhibition decreased during tonic plantarflexion. However, during ramp‐and‐hold dorsiflexion there was a transient increase in reciprocal inhibition of the soleus H reflex. This increase in inhibition from the peroneal nerve could be seen 50 ms prior to the onset of contraction. The increase in inhibition before and at the very beginning of the contraction cannot be due to sensory feed‐back during contraction, but must depend on a supraspinal control of the spinal cord. 5. At conditioning‐test intervals of 4‐6 ms, the inhibition of the soleus H reflex from the peroneal nerve was considerably larger during tonic dorsiflexion than at rest. Thus, tonic dorsiflexion revealed an inhibition with long latency from the peroneal nerve, which was not seen at rest.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)


OBJECTIVE
To determine there was excessive risk of malignant tumors or not among workers exposure to chrysotile fiber alone by applying a meta-analysis technique.

METHODS
All data meeting the criteria of cohort studies on cancer mortality among workers exposed only to chrysotile would incorporate into the meta-analysis. The pooled standardized mortality ratios (SMR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for main cancer sites were calculated using two approaches of unweighted ratio and random effects model. The heterogeneity and its sources of the results were examined with a Q-statistic and Z-score test.

RESULTS
26 chrysotile-exposed alone cohorts were summarized. The significantly elevated meta-SMRs for all deaths (1.28), all cancers (1.26), cancers of respiratory organs (2.24), cancer of lung (2.29) and cancer of stomach (1.27) were observed. The significantly elevated meta-SMRs for lung cancer within occupational strata were observed among textile workers (3.64), asbestos products manufacturers (3.07), miners and millers (2.24), cement products workers (1.22), and for stomach cancer among asbestos products manufacturers (1.48). Meta-SMRs for cancers at other sites were not significant.

CONCLUSION
There were excessive risks of lung cancer and mesothelioma among workers exposure to chrysotile fiber alone, and likely no convincing indication of an etiological association between chrysotile exposure and cancers at other sites.


Objectives To understand stakeholders' views regarding the content and design of paediatric clinical trial multimedia websites. To describe how this knowledge informed the development of the multimedia websites. Design Qualitative study comprising two rounds of interviews or focus groups, with thematic analysis of interview transcripts. Participants Sixty-two people (21 children and young people with long-term health conditions, 24 parents and 17 professionals). Setting One UK children's hospital and one UK Young Persons' Advisory Group. Results When asked what was important in deciding whether to join a trial, children, young people and parents prioritised information about what participation would involve, what the trial was testing, potential benefits and risks of participation and knowing they could leave the trial if they later changed their minds. Young people and parents trusted trial teams to follow regulatory and quality requirements and therefore did not think such information was a priority for the websites, although logos of trusted organisations could lend credibility. Professionals largely concurred with these views. Children and young people advised on the importance of designing the multimedia website to ensure its appearance, tone and wording suited the intended audience and on using animated characters to facilitate children's engagement. Conclusions Our study provides insights into the information that families value when deciding about healthcare trial participation. It provides guidance on the design of information resources to appeal to children and young people, while also being acceptable to parents and professionals who are often gatekeepers of children's access to information. Our findings will be of use to others developing similar multimedia websites. We report specific information needs and new visual preferences that are not usually addressed in printed trial information. Our work illustrates what qualitative research and participatory design practices can contribute to the development of information resources more generally. Trial registration number ISRCTN73136092; Pre-results.


Sentences like (1) "The singer began the album" are ambiguous between an agentive reading (The
 singer began recording/playing/etc. the album) and a constitutive reading (The singer's song was the first track). The ambiguity
 is rooted in the meaning specification of the aspectual-verb class, which demands its complement be construed as a structured
 individual along a dimension (e.g., spatial, informational, eventive). In (1), the complement can be construed as a set of
 eventualities (eventive) or musical content (informational). Processing aspectual-verb sentences is shown to involve (a)
 exhaustive lexical-function retrieval and (b) construal of multiple dimension-specific structured individuals, leading to multiple
 compositions with agentive and constitutive readings. The ultimate interpretation depends on the biased dimensions in context. Our
 eye-tracking study comparing sentences in different contexts (agentive vs. constitutive-biasing) shows not only the aspectual-verb
 composition effect, previously reported for the agentive readings, but also a comparable processing profile for the constitutive
 readings, a novel finding supporting the unified linguistic analysis and processing implementation of the two readings. Regardless
 of reading, the composition effect is observable even after the complement has been retrieved, indicating that the fundamental
 lexico-semantic compositional processes must take place before context can serve as a constraining force.


Scorpion envenomation represents a potential danger in the 2/3 of Tunisia's territory but Sidi Bouzid area is the most infected with 1/6 of the piqued in Tunisia. The purpose of the study was to assess the result of a program for scorpion control in Sidi Bouzid and especially the delay from being stung to access to health care service. The analysis of data related to program shows that the delay was decreased only in 4 districts out of 11. This situation should be explained by such factors as information and behaviour of population, access to health care.... It is necessary to increase the action recommended by the program and to behold specific characteristics of each district.


Seated counterstrain techniques for the treatment of posterior rib tenderpoints are common and can be found in literature. At times, it can be extremely inconvenient or impossible to treat certain patients in a seated position. A supine treatment position could easily address these concerns; however, there is no literature that illustrates how to utilize a counterstrain technique in a supine position for posterior rib tenderpoints. This article describes how to diagnose and treat posterior rib tenderpoints with a patient in the supine position through the application of a counterstrain technique. The importance of addressing posterior rib tenderpoints is discussed along with a brief list of additional somatic dysfunctions that should be addressed in a supine patient experiencing a thoracic cage somatic dysfunction.


In 1987, the United Church of Christ Commission for Racial Justice released its groundbreaking study, Toxic Waste and Race in the United States. The report found race to be the most significant predictor of where hazardous waste facilities were located in the United States. We review this and other studies of environmental racism in an effort to explain the relationship between race and the proximity to hazardous waste facilities. More recent research provides some evidence that the effect is causal, where polluting industries follow the path of least resistance. To date, the published work using Census data ends in 2000, which neglects the period when economic and political changes may have worsened the relationship between race and toxic exposure. Thus, we replicate findings using data from 2010 to show that racial disparities remain persistent in 2010. We conclude with a call for further research on how race and siting have changed during the 2010s.


We examine the impact of lost intellectual property protection on innovation, competition, acquisitions, lawsuits and employment agreements. We consider firms whose ability to protect intellectual property (IP) using patents is weakened following the Alice Corp. vs. CLS Bank International Supreme Court decision. This decision has impacted patents in multiple areas including business methods, software, and bioinformatics. We use state-of-the-art large language models (LLM) to identify firms' existing patent portfolios' potential exposure to the Alice decision. While all affected firms decrease patenting post-Alice, we find an unequal impact of decreased patent protection. Large affected firms benefit as their sales and market valuations increase, and their exposure to lawsuits decreases. They also acquire fewer firms post-Alice. Small affected firms lose as they face increased competition, product-market encroachment, and lower profits and valuations. They increase R&D and have their employees sign more nondisclosure agreements.


Nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases and associated substrates play a pivotal role in Ag receptor stimulation of resting cells and in the initiation of activation-induced cell death (AICD) of preactivated T cells. CD4-associated p56lck has been implicated not only in the activation of primary T cells, but also in the inhibition of T cell responses. We have previously shown that CD4+ T cell clones can be rescued from AICD when surface CD4 is engaged before the TCR stimulus. In this study, we show that prevention of AICD is associated with a CD4-dependent inhibition of TCR-triggered tyrosine phosphorylation of the Src homology 2 domain-containing leukocyte protein of 76 kDa (SLP-76) and Vav. We provide evidence for a SLP-76 interaction with Src homology 3 domains of p56lck and identify amino acids 185-194 of SLP-76 as relevant docking site. In view of the multiple functions of p56lck and SLP-76/Vav in the initiation of TCR/CD3/CD4 signaling, we propose a model for the CD4-dependent inhibition of TCR signaling and AICD of preactivated T cells. Our data suggest that preformed activation complexes of adapter proteins and enzymes in the vicinity of the CD4/p56lck complex are no longer available for the TCR signal when CD4 receptors are engaged before TCR stimulation.


BACKGROUND
There are marked differences associated with socio-economic factors in the prevalence of depressive symptoms (DS) in men and women.

AIM
To estimate the association between socioeconomic status and DS in Chile and to estimate the gender gaps in this association.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was applied as part of a socioeconomic survey carried out in a representative community sample (n = 2913). Using this information, we analyzed the influence of social status (education level, occupation, household income) and other psychosocial factors (gender, perceived social support, stressful life events) on DS.

RESULTS
The prevalence of DS was 23.2% in women and 13.4% in men. A socioeconomic gradient was found in the distribution of DS. This gradient was more pronounced for women than for men. Gender, social support and stressful life events were the most important predictors of severe DS, with an estimated risk twice as high among women and almost three times as high among those with low social support.

CONCLUSIONS
There is a combined effect between socio-economic and gender inequalities on DS. This partially explains the greater vulnerability of poor women and the DS gap between men and women.


To assess the role of gallium-67 (67Ga) scintigraphy in the diagnosis of glomerular diseases, we performed the following technique in 39 patients with glomerulonephritis (GN) who underwent simultaneous Ga scan and histologic examination. 72 hours after IV injection of Ga citrate (2 mCi), isotopic kidney activity (normally undetectable) was compared to the activity of the liver and quantified as follows: less than (1+), equal to (2+) or greater than (3+) that of the liver. Renal biopsy was performed at the same time to evaluate the type of the GN and to quantify interstitial cellular infiltration. Proteinuria, serum albumin and creatinine were measured. There was a significant correlation between the level of 67Ga kidney activity and the degree of proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia. On the contrary, no correlation was found between isotopic activity and the degree of renal failure or the degree of interstitial cellular infiltration. Increased kidney 67Ga activity did not appear characteristic of a specific histologic type of GN. Increased glomerular permeability may alter renal uptake of Ga; therefore 67Ga scanning does not appear to contribute significantly to the diagnosis and the follow-up of either primary or secondary GN.


This Masters dissertation reviews the present methods of research in evacuation, various major fires are reported as part of this process. The findings of this research indicates that a delay in warning occupants in a building, to the threat of a fire, is a constant feature in fire disasters. Further the provision of early warning and an appropriate response are considered with reference to the reduction of the number of fatalities in fires.

The thesis concerns the hypothesis that people with enhanced alarm information exhibit diminished panic. The resultant technological developments such as voice alarm
messages and Informative Fire Warning systems [IFW] are reported. The effect of these systems by the minimisation of pre-movement or occupant response time in the decision
making process are studied. Effects concerning the influence of, for example, mobility and alcohol upon human behaviour are also reported.

The main thrust of this thesis is to examine the methods by which the time of evacuation to safety in complex buildings can be observed and assessed. Two evacuation experiments on a shopping centre are studied and measurements were taken using digital technology to count occupants during the evacuations. The findings of the experimental work are summarised and reported and the adequacy of the fire evacuation system is assessed. The importance concerning management arrangements and alarm systems and future research are discussed.

The two experiments were carried out using the Footfall digital counting mechanism proved very successful and the recording of all the data was carried out by the author with no additional assistance. The fire drills resulted in some interesting findings regarding occupant behaviour. The occupants appeared to place considerable trust in the information they received. The observed behaviour in the response to both fire evacuation drills in a similar environment may be explained in part by the task characteristics of the perceived emergency and the mode of cognitive processing created by such circumstances. This suggests that untrained, unprepared occupants tend to resort to informal or intuitive processing, which can be influenced by instruction from either an alarm system or by persons in authority.

The prospects for further work are the carrying-out of more evacuation experiments in order to develop reliability in the determination of pre-movement times. Further experiments would be in other types of premises of varying configurations and occupancies, using the same type of recording equipment that proved effective in the two experiments carried out.


Repair of parenchyma by stem/progenitor cells is seen as a possible alternative to cure acute and chronic renal failure in future. To learn about this therapeutic purpose, the formation of nephrons during organ growth is under focus of present research. This process is triggered by numerous morphogenetic interactions between epithelial and mesenchymal cells within the renal stem/progenitor cell niche. Recent data demonstrate that an astonishingly wide interstitial interface separates both types of stem/progenitor cells probably controlling coordinated cell-to-cell communication. Since conventional fixation by glutaraldehyde (GA) does not declare in transmission electron microscopy the spatial separation, improved contrasting procedures were applied. As a consequence, the embryonic cortex of neonatal rabbit kidneys was fixed in solutions containing glutaraldehyde in combination with cupromeronic blue, ruthenium red or tannic acid. To obtain a comparable view to the renal stem/progenitor cell niche, the specimens had to be orientated along the cortico-medullary axis of lining collecting ducts. Analysis of tissue samples fixed with GA, in combination with cupromeronic blue, demonstrates demasked extracellular matrix. Numerous braces of proteoglycans cover, as well, the basal lamina of epithelial stem/progenitor cells as projections of mesenchymal stem/progenitor cells crossing the interstitial interface. Fixation with GA containing ruthenium red or tannic acid illustrates strands of extracellular matrix that originate from the basal lamina of epithelial stem/progenitor cells and line through the interstitial interface. Thus, for the first time, improved contrasting techniques make it possible to analyze in detail a microheterogeneous composition of the interstitial interface within the renal stem/progenitor cell niche.


Solar Photovoltaic (PV) produces electricity from the sun's rays by directly converting photons to electrons using semiconductor materials. By contrast, Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) produces electricity by reflecting sunlight via solar collectors to heat a receiver to high temperatures. This heat is transformed first into mechanical energy, by turbines or Stirling engines, and then to electricity. CSP has several advantages over PV by having higher efficiencies, lower investment costs, an inherent thermal storage capacity that enables power generation during cloud cover or after sunset and a better hybrid operation capability with other fuels to meet base-load demand at night. Establishing a CSP plant creates jobs and helps develop existing local industries. This together with the potential for niche applications such as absorption chilling make CSP a rational choice in tackling Bangladesh's energy crisis and fulfilling its renewable energy goals.


OBJECTIVE
To study the characteristics of a novel human testis-specific gene, HSD-9, and its encoding protein.

METHODS
HSD-9 was a novel gene from a human germ cells-specific ESTs library established in our laboratory. We used an electronic cloning method to obtain HSD-9 gene, and analyzed the characteristics of this novel gene and encoding product by bioinformatics methods, detected its expressing profile using a Northern blot assay, prepared specific rabbit polyclonal antibodies against HSD-9 protein, observed the localization of this protein in the germ cells and some somatic cells with confocal microscopy.

RESULTS
HSD-9 was expressed in human testes, and its rat homolog was found in the varying germ cells. HSD-9 protein could partly be colocalized with clathrin.

CONCLUSIONS
HSD-9 is specific in human testes, and the expression pattern of its encoding product is similar to those of some endocytosis proteins. It is speculated that HSD-9 protein may function in the endocytosis.


Attempts to improve the human lot begin typically with treating compelling miseries, such as hunger and epidemics. When these problems are solved, attention shifts to broader and more positive goals; we can see this development in the history of social policy, the goal of which has evolved from 'alleviating poverty' to providing 'a decent standard of living' for everybody. The field of medicine has witnessed a similar shift from assisting people to 'survive' to, in addition, promoting a good 'quality of life'. This policy change has put some nasty questions back on the agenda, such as: "What is a good life?", "What good is the best?" The social sciences cannot provide good answers to these questions, since they have also focused on misery. Yet, a good answer can be found in a classic philosophy, and it is one that is worth reconsidering.


The problem of the characterization of the Hilbert functions of homogeneous ideals of a polynomial ring containing a fixed monomial ideal I is considered. Macaulay's result for the polynomial ring is generalized to the case of residue rings modulo some monomial ideals. In particular, necessary and sufficient conditions on an ideal I for Macaulay's theorem to hold are presented in two cases: when I is an ideal of the polynomial ring in two variables and when I is generated by a lexsegment. Macaulay's theorem is also proved for a wide variety of cases when I is generated by monomials in the two largest variables in the lexicographic ordering. In addition, an equivalent formulation of Macaulay's theorem and conditions on the ideal I required for a generalization of this theorem are given.


This study examines the effect of foreign bank penetration on banking competition in Indonesia. Penetration of foreign banks is measured by using the ratio between total assets, total loans and total deposits of foreign banks to total assets, total loans and total deposits of the banking industry in Indonesia, such as those used by Levy and Micco (2007). Bank concentration is measured by using Concentration Ratio (CR3 and CR5) and the Herfindahl index. Bank competition is measured by using the Conjectural Variation approach as used by Cetorelli Angelini (2003). By using panel regression method with SUR (Seemingly Unrelated Regression) during 1998 to 2009, we found that the increase of foreign bank penetration will increase competition of banking in Indonesia through spillover effects on the domestic banking system. These results support the research of Jeon et al (2011). Keywords: Foreign Bank Penetration, Conjectural Variation and Bank Competition


Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) have long been recognised as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. They account for a substantial number of clinical consultations, hospital admissions and extended duration of in-patient stay as well as mortality. By far the most common ADRs are the concentration-dependent pharmacological reactions, the majority of which ought to be preventable. As a result of high concentrations of the parent drug and/or its metabolite(s), there is an augmentation of primary pharmacological activity and/or appearance of new and undesirable secondary pharmacological activity. Typically, these high concentrations result from administration of high doses in an attempt to maximise efficacy and/or modulation of the pharmacokinetics of a drug by either genetic or non-genetic factors. High plasma concentrations of parent drug may result from inherited impairment or drug-induced inhibition of its pharmacokinetic disposition. Conversely, inherited overcapacity or drug-induced induction of the metabolism of a drug may result in low concentrations of parent drug and frequently, rapid accumulation of its metabolites. Environmental, dietary and phytochemical factors may also influence the activity of drug metabolising enzymes. As with inherited polymorphisms of acetylation and cytochrome P450-based drug metabolising enzymes, polymorphisms of other conjugation reactions, such as glucuronidation, increasingly appear to be associated with drug toxicity. Diseases of organs involved in elimination of a drug also alter its pharmacokinetics, plasma concentration and, therefore, the profile of its concentration-dependent ADRs. Inherited mutations, concurrently administered drugs or presence of certain diseases may also alter the sensitivity of some pharmacological targets, accounting for a substantial number of ADRs and interactions. When there is enhanced pharmacodynamic sensitivity, plasma drug concentrations that are apparently within the normal 'non-toxic' range give rise to ADRs. Recent advances have also provided important insights into the wider scope of drug–drug interactions. Interactions that occur at P-glycoproteins, drug transporters and efflux pumps, at various transmembrane interfaces such as the gastrointestinal wall, renal tubules, hepatobiliary border and blood–brain barrier, are beginning to explain many non-metabolic interactions. These alter the systemic exposure to drugs and have so far, begun to explain unexpected neurotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. The function of these transporters is also genetically modulated. These advances, together with continued increased awareness and education of prescribers and pharmacists, offer great opportunities for substantially minimising concentration-related ADRs.


A common setting for scientific inference is the ability to sample from a high-fidelity forward model (simulation) without having an explicit probability density of the data. We propose a simulation-based maximum likelihood deconvolution approach in this setting called OmniFold. Deep learning enables this approach to be naturally unbinned and (variable-, and) high-dimensional. In contrast to model parameter estimation, the goal of deconvolution is to remove detector distortions in order to enable a variety of down-stream inference tasks. Our approach is the deep learning generalization of the common Richardson-Lucy approach that is also called Iterative Bayesian Unfolding in particle physics. We show how OmniFold can not only remove detector distortions, but it can also account for noise processes and acceptance effects.


The local release of inflammatory mediators are intricately linked with initiation and propagation of the inflammatory reaction in ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease. We have used immunohistochemical staining of colonic biopsies to determine the cell of origin and the location of the cells which synthesize of TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta in patients with UC and Crohn's colitis. Patients were chosen from children aged 7-16 years, who had UC or Crohn's diagnosed following review of colonic biopsies taken during colonoscopy. The patients reviewed had not received treatment for inflammatory bowel disease. Paraffin embedded colonic biopsies were sectioned, deparaffinized, and stained with mouse monoclonal IgG antibodies directed against human recombinant TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta. The colonic lamina propria of all biopsies from patients with UC or Crohn's colitis was expanded with a mixed mononuclear, polymorphonuclear, lymphocytic, and plasmacytic infiltrate. Mononuclear cells distributed throughout the interstitium, stained prominently for both TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta. Plasmacytes, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, small lymphocytes, and foamy macrophages did not stain for either TNF-alpha or IL-1 beta. Transmigrating mononuclear cells in crypt epithelium also stained brightly for both TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta. Colonic epithelial cells did not stain for either TNF-alpha or IL-1 beta.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


ABSTRACT Death due to HIV remains a leading cause of death among some US populations, yet little is known about HIV care before death. We used data from the National HIV Surveillance System to determine disease stage and care within 12 months prior to death among persons infected with HIV who died in 2012. Persons were considered to be in care within 12 months before death if they had ≥1 CD4 or viral load test results, and in continuous care if they had ≥2 CD4 or viral load test results at least 3 months apart. Viral suppression (viral load <200 copies/mL) was based on the most recent viral load test result in the 12 months before death. Among 7348 persons infected with HIV who died in 2012, 47.1% had late stage disease (AIDS) within 12 months before death. Overall, 85.7% had ≥1 test result, 64.3% had ≥2 tests at least 3 months apart, and 41.6% had a suppressed viral load. While blacks and Hispanics/Latinos had higher percentages of continuous care compared with whites, they had lower percentages of viral suppression and higher percentages with late stage disease. Viral suppression was higher among older persons. The majority had been diagnosed with HIV more than 5 years before death (86.3%). Although the majority of persons infected with HIV who died in 2012 had been diagnosed many years before death, almost half had late stage disease, and there were disparities in late stage disease and viral suppression by race/ethnicity and age.


The results of experimental studies of the geometry of gradient structures formed in optical glass by the method of electron-beam modification of its surface are presented. The expediency of using the atomic force microscopy method for determining the geometrical parameters of microlayers formed in the surfaces of optical materials by the method of their electron-beam modification is substantiated. A new method for determining the basic geometric parameters (thickness of the gradient layer, topology of the interface "gradient layer - the basis of the material", surface microrelief, etc.) gradient structures, based on the method of atomic force microscopy is proposed. The proposed method is based on the principle of the complex application of various operating modes of an atomic-force microscope (the results of the instrument operation are considered, both in contact and in non-contact modes) in one measurement cycle. According to the proposed method, the dependencies between the change in the refractive index and the modes of electron-beam modification of the optical glass surface, as well as the dependence between the electron-beam effect modes and the geometric parameters of the gradient structure on the glass (thickness of the gradient structure, surface microrelief and interface between the layers and the base material ). The possibility of predicting the development of hidden microdefects at the interface "gradient layer - the basis of the material" is shown. Proved high reliability and adequacy of the proposed method by comparing the results obtained with the results of determining the geometric parameters obtained by other alternative methods.


The first plasma Factor II-VII-X value after admission to the hospital was higher than 90% in 29% of 38 common duct stone patients, in 9% of 33 patients with bile duct obstruction due to pancreatic carcinoma, and in 3 of 5 patients with cholestatic drug reaction. In contrast, the admission value was above 90% in only one of 89 patients with acute hepatitis and in none of 8 patients with a hepatocellular drug reaction. Therefore, a high plasma Factor II-VII-X activity in a patient with liver or biliary tract disease seems to be a rellained by an increased protein synthesis in the liver.


This thesis discusses the social tensions between Malay and Dayak Kancing'k groups in the Kuala Rosan village, Meliau District, Sanggau Regency, West Kalimantan. Malay lives in the hamlet of Kuala Rosan, while Dayak Kancing'k lives in Lubuk Piling. Both of the hamlets are very close geographically, it is only separated by the Buayan River. Although The two ethnic groups live in one location, their ethnic�s identity, language, religion, and behaviors are different. Basically the Malay who lives in Kuala Rosan is Dayak Kancing'k people who converted to Islam. Therefore, the Malay Kuala Rosan and Dayak Kancing'k Lubuk Piling still related. However, between the two groups there is hostility in their social relation which never escalates into open conflict. The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the background and motives behind the hostility between the Malay and Dayak Kancing'k. This thesis gives an answer of question, what are the main cause of social tensions between Malay and Dayak Kancing'k, and why the social tension is never escalate into physical conflict. Data for this study obtained by did participation observation research methods conducted over three months at the sites, that is Desa Kuala Rosan, District Meliau, Sanggau regency, West Kalimantan.


Abstract: Background: Practicing physicians often wish to improve their procedural skills but have limited educational opportunities to do so. Description: To summarize the effects of two procedural workshops on participants' confidence, proficiency, and practice patterns. Evaluation: Following completion of a skin biopsy or arthrocentesis workshop, participants completed a post-course and an 8-month follow up evaluation. Recipients of this training rated it highly and reported that following training they performed more procedures, referred less, and noted an increase in their confidence that was still evident eight months after the workshop. Conclusion: Skin biopsy and arthrocentesis/joint injection skills can be taught to practicing physicians in a workshop setting at national professional meetings.


Revision with unchanged content. Student leadership development programs are an emerging topic of conversation within the field of student affairs. This paper uses the personal narratives of five recent graduates of the LeaderShape program to consider student perceptions of the effects of this program. A literature review discusses recent publications in the field of student leadership development. The interview data collected in this study confirm the findings of this recent research, including generally positive leadership experiences, improved racial relations, and the importance of small group interactions. Additionally, this thesis includes a cross-case analysis and discussion section that present several themes that emerged from participants' narratives. Recommendations for future research and practice associated with student leadership development are also presented. This book would be beneficial to anyone working with the LeaderShape program or other collegiate leadership programs. Both student affairs practitioners as well as college students interested in leadership will benefit from the themes and research in this work.


The ESO's adaptive optics facility (AOF) is ending its commissioning at Paranal (Chile). It feeds two second-generation instruments of the VLT-UT4 telescope, HAWK-I and MUSE, with turbulence corrected wavefronts through the GALACSI and GRAAL modules. The main features of the AOF are its deformable secondary mirror with 1170 actuators and a laser asterism of 4 artificial stars that probe the atmosphere via four high-resolution Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensors (WFS), each with 40x40 subapertures. The system provides ground layer adaptive optics (GLAO) and laser tomography adaptive optics (LTAO) capabilities. In order to support the commissioning phases of the project, and later optimize and diagnose the operation of the system, a turbulence profiler has been developed and installed in SPARTA, the AOF real time controller (RTC). The profiler estimates two key turbulence parameters: the Cn 2(h) and the outer scale (L0(h)) profiles and no limit on the number of the estimated layers exists, but for eight layers, the method takes about 2 minutes to yield a full characterization of the atmosphere. The maximum line of sight distance that the profiler can probed the atmosphere depends on the star separation defined for each operation mode: 3km for GRAAL; 14 km for GALACSI wide field and over 35km for GALACS narrow field mode. The remaining turbulence above these maxima (unseen turbulence from the undetected layers) are essential in the GRAAL mode and it is reliably estimated thanks to a novel method to determine the noise in the WFSs, which is mandatory for estimating this upper segment of the turbulence. The technique is also useful to alert about operational problems such as dome seeing and mis-registrations. The method is currently installed in the SPARTA RTC, providing continuous online estimations for the GALACSI (narrow and wide field modes), and for GRAAL mode. Results for several nights comprising hundreds of profiles show very good agreement with other independent measurements.


Cranial irradiation may result in altered hypothalamo-pituitary function in patients treated for cancer distant from this area. Growth hormone (GH) deficiency is the most frequent complication. The frequency, delay of occurrence and severity of GH deficiency depend on the irradiation dose delivered to this area. The other factors influencing the frequency are the age at irradiation and the fractionation schedule. The frequency of other hypothalamo-pituitary changes is also dose-dependent: thyrotropin and gonadotropin deficiencies occur in 50-60% of cases after 50 Gray, and corticotrophin deficiency in 30%. Low dose cranial irradiation may also induce precocious puberty (onset < 8 yr in girls and < 10 yr in boys). The radiation-induced lesions seem to occur in the hypothalamus rather than in the pituitary. There is generally a good correlation between the GH peak and the growth velocity, but there may be normal growth in spite of GH deficiency after low dose or due to precocious puberty, decreased growth velocity in spite of normal GH peak, due to bone irradiation. Results on final height have been optimized by a better indication of GH therapy and by its association with treatment of precocious puberty.


The soils on Imo Clay Shale residua were sampled at Anaku and Igbariam in Anambra state, Nigeria to characterize, classify and evaluate their current suitability for rice production following standard scientific procedures. After several auger borings, modal profiles were sited, dug, described, and sampled. The soils generally belong to loamy textural classes or finer, especially in the subsoil layers. The morphological and physical properties of soils showed that the soils were poorly drained, favouring high water retention due to low hydraulic conductivity and slow permeability. All these conditions favour good rice performance. Though the soils contained high levels of exchangeable bases, exchangeable acidity was equally high leading to low base saturation (< 35%). Thus, the soils were classified as Typic Kanhaplaquults (Soil Taxonomy) and correlated to Gleyic Cambisols (World Reference Base for Soil Resources). Due to fertility inadequacies, the current suit- ability unit of the soils for rice production is suitability class 2 with fertility constraints (S2f). This implies that for sustainable rice production supplementary nutrients especially P2O5 from triple superphosphate or rock phosphate need to be applied. Based on the soil chemical results the following recommendations were made for optimum rice production: 100.00-120.00 kg ha‒1 urea, 60.00 kg ha‒1 P2O5 from triple superphosphate and 15.00 kg ha‒1 K2O (muriate of potash).


Rationale:

There is little information regarding the allergen content of milk feeds in the preterm population. Previous studies have evaluated specific proteins/peptides via ELISA, but no studies have performed a broad analysis of the allergenic peptide content and protease activity of milk feeds in this population. Preterm infants spend a critical window of time for immune development in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and may receive fortified donor milk, maternal milk or formula feeds via nasogastric tube or bottle instead of fresh breastmilk via breastfeeding.
Methods:

To evaluate feasibility, we initially performed mass spectrometry on four human milk samples (two term and two preterm) from the Mommy's Milk Human Milk Biorepository (HMB) which included maternal surveys of diet and environmental exposures. We analyzed the results against the University of Nebraska FASTA database and UniProt for a total of 2211 protein sequences. We then further analyzed 5 samples from the Microbiome, Atopy and Prematurity (MAP) pilot study along with formula and human milk fortifier controls and performed not only mass spectrometry, but also peptidomic and protease activity analysis.
Results:

Each HMB sample had between 806 and 1007 proteins, with 37 to 44 non-human proteins/sample encompassing 26 plant and animal species. Bovine proteins were the most numerous; seven unique Bos taurus proteins were found in all four samples, and three contained Bos d 5. Cat, dog, mosquito, salmon, and crab were detected in all four samples. All donors ingested fish, shellfish and tree nuts, and all had salmon and crab proteins in their milk samples; two almond proteins were detected in three samples. Aeroallergens, including dust mite (Der f 28, Der f 25) and mold (Cla h 4) were identified in all samples. Two samples contained allergens to latex (Hev b 9) and chicken (Gal d 10). One sample contained several unique proteins, including carrot, two molds (including Pen c 19) and Der f 33-like protein. In the preterm MAP samples, 784 digested non-human proteins were identified, 30 were non-bovine in origin. Proteins from 23 different species including aeroallergens, food, and contact allergens were identified. Protease activity was highest in human milk samples without human milk fortifier and lowest in preterm formula.
Conclusions:

These findings represent the first preterm milk feed mass spectrometry and protease analysis with identification of known allergenic proteins to food, contact and aeroallergens. The varying degree of protein detection may reflect variable individual secretion and augmentation of feeds. This raises questions of whether the composition of milk feeds in the NICU impact the development of atopic disease in the preterm population and whether the complex interaction between allergens, proteases, and other human milk components can serve to induce sensitization or tolerance to allergens in infants.


best method is that reported by the Melbourne Prediatric Society where patients are shown, histories are read, and an open discussion takes place and is reported. On this account the Editor of the journal has for many years regarded the reports of the Melbourne Prediatric Society as the most valuable clinical reports which he receives. When the method pursued in New South Wales is followed, the bare clinical reports are sent to the journal office and the journal staff has to make up an account for publication from the notes sent. On rare occasions, when what we may call the "isolationist" method of demonstration has been used, members have, on request, sent specially worded reports. But even these are not accompanied by any record of discussion. We must not lose sight of the fact that some of the hospitals in Australia have their


In this study, a new framework for parsing a video sequence into shots is presented. The new algorithm uses eigenspace decomposition of the RGB color space to describe the frames in a more descriptive coordinate system. The new basis eliminates the stumbling blocks of current shot detection approaches. The algorithm executes in real time and gives robust boundaries for shots even when gradual transitions, illumination changes or camera motion occur. The idea is extended to characterization of the scenes without using extra effort. The experiments demonstrate the speed and accuracy in shot detection and characterization.


The recovery of lithium ions from mixed solutions has attracted extensive research interests with increasing demand of lithium resources. In this study, novel cauliflower-like lithium-ion imprinted polymers (Li-IIPs) have been successfully synthesized by using B12C4 as the complexing agent, acrylamide (AM) as the functional monomer and N,N′-methylene bis-acrylamide (MBAM) as the cross linker for selective separation and recovery of lithium ions from mixed solutions. The Li-IIPs exhibited maximum adsorption capacity for Li+ (1.135 mmol g−1) under optimum experimental conditions. Additionally, the high relative selectivity factors (KLi/Na = 5.34, KLi/K = 6.47, KLi/Cu = 23.05, KLi/Zn = 27.13) indicated that Li-IIPs had outstanding selective performance. The regeneration experiments were also conducted and confirmed the favorable reusability and stability of the as-prepared polymers. Therefore, the outstanding performance and simple preparation method makes Li-IIPs a powerful tool for effective separation and recovery of lithium ions in practical applications.


Five new (1-5) and one known (6) jatrophane diterpenoid esters were isolated from the ethanol extract of the whole herb of Euphorbia turczaninowii. Their structures were established by extensive spectroscopic methods. The absolute stereochemistry of 3 beta,5 alpha,8 alpha,15 beta-tetraacetoxy-7 beta-benzoyloxyjatropha-6(17),11E-dien-9,14-dione (1) was confirmed by a single-crystal X-ray analysis coupled with the exciton chirality circular dichroism method. Compounds 1-6 were inactive when evaluated both in a mouse ear inflammation assay and for cytotoxicity against the B16 mouse melanoma cell line.


Although the risk of amniocentesis in the second trimester of pregnancy is small, untoward sequelae can be further reduced. One hundred twenty amniocenteses were attempted during a two-year period. In eight instances, the patient had to return for a second tap because of bacterial contamination, inadequate number of fetal cells, or inability to obtain amniotic fluid. These eight patients all underwent repated amniocentesis and successful karyotyping. There were no major complications and one minor complication. Two spontaneous abortions were not apparently related to the procedure. In both these cases, fluid could not be obtained because one patient had a blighted ovum with a small sac and the other had large uterine fibromyomas.


Everyday career information use is not fully addressed by extant theories, models and frameworks. In this paper, a conceptual framework of career information behaviour and career information literacy in everyday life is presented.Methods. Over the course of 2021, a literature review of everyday life career information use was completed. As part of this review, a search for boundary objects was performed, and thematically similar conceptual contributions were mapped. An analysis of the integral components of ten theories, models and frameworks relating to information behaviour, information literacy, information practice and career development was performed with a view towards the development of a conceptual framework. A conceptual framework consisting of two key components – topography and way of life – was devised following analysis. The framework provides insight into the means by which individuals experience career information in everyday life, and the means by which they navigate career information environments. The conceptual framework presented in this paper is applicable to the development of novel career information literacy theories, models or frameworks, or the modification of extant conceptualisations.


Every year, 14 million cases of obstetric hemorrhage occur worldwide, causing 127,000 maternal deaths. About 75% of postpartum hemorrhage cases are due to atonic uterus, which is loss of uterine muscular tone or strength for contraction of the uterus after delivery. The prediction of atonic uterus is therefore important for the prevention of postpartum maternal death. However, prediction of occurrence of atonic uterus is difficult before delivery, because the precise pathophysiological mechanism to trigger this condition remains unclear. Here, we present a case of severe postpartum hemorrhage due to atonic uterus. A 35-year-old woman gave a birth by vaginal delivery to a healthy boy. However, due to intractable massive hemorrhage after the removal of the retained placenta, we performed supravaginal hysterectomy as the best option for survival. Pathological examination showed that implantation site intermediate trophoblasts (ISITs) formed unusually large clumps in the decidua, diagnosed as exaggerated placental site (EPS). EPS is thought to be a condition consisting of an excessive number of ISITs. ISITs are differentiated from a trophoblast lineage in the process of placenta formation. ISITs anchor the placenta to the maternal tissue and are considered to maintain pregnancy, but the postpartum role of these cells remains unclear. Excessive infiltration of ISITs, namely EPS, may cause postpartum atonic uterus. In this article, we also reviewed the literatures on EPS. The present case and other reported cases indicate that EPS causes mass formation in the uterus, continuous uterine bleeding, and massive hemorrhage, resulting in hysterectomy.


After describing and explaining the dry bed filtration process, in the experimental part of this paper the results of semi-technical tests are presented and a measurement nomogram for dual-media dry bed filters is presented. In the second part of the paper, the experiences and results of two large-scale plants (municipal wastewater treatment plant; paper industry) are discussed. The semi-technical results show that the dry bed filtration process is an extraordinarily efficient process and contains the possibility of simultaneous elimination of suspended solids, nitrification and elimination of residual COD and BOD. The large-technical tests show that meanwhile this process has also been proven in practice.


Autonomous robots must communicate about their decisions to gain trust and acceptance. When doing so, robots must determine which actions are causal, i.e., which directly give rise to the desired outcome, so that these actions can be included in explanations. In behavior learning in psychology, this sort of reasoning during an action sequence has been studied extensively in the context of imitation learning. And yet, these techniques and empirical insights are rarely applied to human-robot interaction (HRI). In this work, we discuss the relevance of behavior learning insights for robot intent communication, and present the first application of these insights for a robot to efficiently communicate its intent by selectively explaining the causal actions in an action sequence.


In Japanese livestock farming, there has been an increasing focus on the need to improve feed selfsufficiency rate, especially the self-sufficiency rate for concentrate feed. This study targets ear corn production, which is currently emphasized as domestic concentrate feed. Consequently, it examines the possibility of introducing ear corn production through integrated farming systems of arable and livestock in the regional agriculture of Abira town, Hokkaido. This possibility is studied from the viewpoint of farmland management in upland farms, as the number of farmers decreases in the region. The results show a further decrease in the number of farmers in the future, which would enhance the need for farmland maintenance and management. Additionally, if farmers introduce ear corn production, it will be possible to expand the labor-saving operational scale through labor extensive production. Consequently, labor saving will facilitate farmland management in the area. The introduction of ear corn production in the region by an integrated farming system of arable and livestock is expected to be an effective measure to promote both management stability, through income replacement of wheat as main crop, and farmland management, for not only dairy farms but also upland ones, considering the decline in the number of farmers.


In the present paper we establish necessary and sufficient conditions under which two functions can be separated by a delta-convex function. This separation will be understood as a separation with respect to the partial order generated by the Lorentz cone. An application to a stability problem for delta-convexity is also given.


The objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence of gastric habronemiasis on the Peruvian Paso Horse population reared in the southern part of Lima. Fecal samples were collected from 264 equines of different age, sex and location and were processed by the Xenodiagnosis technique. Forty five equines were positive to habronemiasis, which means a prevalence of 17.1 ± 2.0% (C.I. 95%). There was a significant relationship between the presence of Habronema muscae with sex and place of origin of the animals (p 0.05).


Epigenetic gene silencing mediated through aberrant DNA methylation and histone deacetylation is a key contributor to lung carcinogenesis. We have defined the utility of a panel of promoter region DNA methylation markers as a robust potential molecular system for re-staging stage 1 non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to molecular stage 3 disease. The significance of our finding is that silencing of these gene markers represents not only prognostic markers, but also these genes may serve as potential targets for a unique new epigenetic approach to re-express the silenced genes. We have just completed a phase 2 trial of epigenetic therapy in NSCLC with documented objective responses. The personalization of this therapy with epigenetic biomarkers may make it especially useful for the medically underserved. Citation Information: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2011;20(10 Suppl):ED03-04.


Hereditary multiple exostoses (HME) is an autosomal dominant bone disorder characterized by growth of benign multiple exostoses. In our present study, we describe a four-generation Han Chinese kindred with eight members affected by HME. Haplotyping analysis and mutation detection was performed. The results linked the disease-causing gene to the EXT1 locus on chromosome 8. A novel mutation in EXT1, c.1897delC, which cosegregated with the disease phenotype, was detected. To further confirm this mutation, a mismatch primer was designed to introduce a ScaI restriction site into the normal allele by polymerase chain reaction, and the following restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis demonstrated that the mutation was not detected in any unaffected individuals of the family or 100 unrelated Han Chinese control individuals. This mutation leads to a frameshift from codon 633, resulting in a premature termination at codon 642 and loss of the highly conserved C terminal region of the protein. Therefore, this heterozygous mutation must be classified as pathogenic and can be regarded as the cause of HME in this Chinese family.


Purpose: This study was designed to investigate the clinical and oncological results of the unplanned excision group, and to compare the results with those of the planned excision group. Materials and Methods: A total of 41 patients who underwent re-excision of sarcoma in Yeungnam University Medical Center, from January 2000 to December 2012, after unplanned excision in local medical centers were reviewed retrospectively. We analyzed the clinical and oncological results according to age, gender, tumor size, depth, and locations. As a control group of planned excision, 81 patients with a similar state, were selected and reviewed among the group of 480 patients who underwent planned excision during the same period. We then compared the results of the two groups. Results: In the unplanned excision group, only the age factor was statistically significant to survival (p=0.048). In comparison of clinical and oncological results of the unplanned and planned excision groups, recurrence rate was 11.1% in the unplanned group, 10.5% in the planned group and did not show statistical significance (p=0.18). Survival rate was 74% in the unplanned group, 76.6% in the planned group and did not show statistical significance (p=0.06). Necessity of additional surgery for coverage of soft tissue defects was 46% in the unplanned group, 14% in the planned group and showed statistical significance (p=0.00). Conclusion: No significant difference in survival and local recurrence rate was observed between the groups of re-excision with microscopic remnant tumor after unplanned excision and planned excision. However, unplanned excision might lead to unnecessary additional surgery like skin-graft, skin-flap if it were planned.


An immune sensor based on the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was developed for express diagnostics of bovine leucosis. Sensor used for detection of the level of antibodies against bovine leukaemia virus (BLV) in the milk serum. It was shown that immune sensor analysis is more sensitive, rapid and simple in comparison with the traditional AGID test. It was stated that the developed immune sensor may be used for performance of screening of bovine leucosis at the farms and the minimal dilution of the milk serum should be 1:20.


The author presents a harmonic analysis of a parallel-connected 12-pulse uncontrolled bridge rectifier without an interphase transformer (IPT). Five normal operating modes of the specific rectifier circuit are classified, using an analytical method by deriving instantaneous AC current and DC voltage waveform equations. The discrete Fourier transformation algorithm is then carried out to obtain both current and voltage harmonic contents. Both the AC current and DC voltage harmonics for rectifiers with and without an IPT have been investigated to discuss the influence of the IPT on rectifier harmonics. Simulation results reveal that discrepancies in harmonic contents of both AC current and DC voltage of the two rectifier circuits are marked. It is noted that, for extremely light load up to rated load conditions, the total harmonic distortion (THD) of line-supply current is reduced, while the THD of DC output voltage is increased when the IPT is deleted from rectifier circuit.