Hybrid zones are a valuable tool for studying the process of speciation and for identifying the genomic regions undergoing divergence and the ecological (extrinsic) and non-ecological (intrinsic) factors involved. Here, we explored the genomic and geographic landscape of divergence in a hybrid zone between Papilio glaucus and Papilio canadensis. Using a genome scan of 28,417 ddRAD SNPs, we identified genomic regions under possible selection and examined their distribution in the context of previously identified candidate genes for ecological adaptations. We showed that differentiation was genome-wide, including multiple candidate genes for ecological adaptations, particularly those involved in seasonal adaptation and host plant detoxification. The Z-chromosome and four autosomes showed a disproportionate amount of differentiation, suggesting genes on these chromosomes play a potential role in reproductive isolation. Cline analyses of significantly differentiated genomic SNPs, and of species diagnostic genetic markers, showed a high degree of geographic coincidence (81%) and concordance (80%) and were associated with the geographic distribution of a climate-mediated developmental threshold (length of the growing season). A relatively large proportion (1.3%) of the outliers for divergent selection were not associated with candidate genes for ecological adaptations and may reflect the presence of previously unrecognized intrinsic barriers between these species. These results suggest that exogenous (climate-mediated) and endogenous (unknown) clines may have become coupled and act together to reinforce reproductive isolation. This approach of assessing divergence across both the genomic and geographic landscape can provide insight about the interplay between the genetic architecture of reproductive isolation and endogenous and exogenous selection.


Abstract Carrion consumption by herbivores is increasingly being observed in nature, however, we lack detailed analyses of its occurrence for numerous species. Here, we quantify incidences of scavenging by Snowshoe Hares (Lepus americanus) in Yukon, Canada between January 2015 and July 2017. Hares scavenged 12.4% of carcasses deployed and were more likely to scavenge during the winter. Hares consumed meat from a variety of different species, including Canada Lynx (Lynx canadensis), as well as the carcasses of hares. On one occasion, an individual repeatedly ingested feathers from a Spruce Grouse (Falcipennis canadensis) carcass. Scavenging by hares may result from food or nutrient limitations during winter months and appears relatively common when compared to other lagomorph species.


Abstract Poland's accession to the European Union has given many opportunities both in terms of access to the EU economy and European funds. Owing to the set sustainable development goals, the business sphere faces the challenge of their implementation through, among others, activities in the area of social and human capital, and environmental protection. It is important to model solutions that enable sustainable production and consumption. The introduction of innovative product and process technologies may contribute to increasing the competitiveness of SMEs in the Textile and Clothing sector, which in consequence should also contribute to the implementation of objectives of the Regional Smart Specializations for Lodz Province. An example of such solutions is the system for personalized production of clothes presented in the article. The aim of the article is to determine the current situation of the Polish clothing industry in trade with the European Union by analyzing comparative advantages for CN 61 and 62 (related to the clothing industry) and presenting the level of innovation of Lodz Province against the background of Poland as a region specializing in the production of clothing under the adopted Regional Smart Specializations for Lodz Province. It is assumed that the presented system for the personalized production of clothing may affect the competitiveness of this industry and the region.


Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) are private sector led public/private partnerships, tasked to provide the vision
and strategic leadership needed to drive private sector growth and job creation in their sub-regional areas. The 39 LEPs approved by government cover nearly the whole of England; the exception being a single local authority (see figure 1). LEPs are widely considered to be the chief vehicle for the delivery of national level initiatives but within a context of localism. They have been set a considerable challenge – uniting business, public and community interests in a way that enables the economic regeneration and growth of local places.

LEPs are now viewed as the only show in town, especially since the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) were abolished in March 2012. Since their inception from 2010 onwards, most LEPs have populated their boards, agreed priorities and produced business plans. A key question arises: are LEPs equipped for the task?


This study introduces an interactive image segmentation algorithm for extraction of ill-defined edges (faint, blurred or partially broken) often observed at small-scale imaging. It is based on a simplified deformable elastic model evolution paradigm. Segmentation is achieved as a two-step region-growing, shrinking and merging simulation constrained by an exclusion band built around the edges of the regions of interest, defined from a variation image. The simulation starts from a set of unlabeled markers and the respective elastic models. During the first step, model evolution occurs entirely outside the exclusion band, driven by alternate action-reaction movements. Forward and backward movements are performed by constrained binary morphological dilations and erosions. Constraints allow controlling how far models can move through narrow gaps. At the end of the first step, models remaining from merging operations receive unique and exclusive labels. On the second and final step, models expansion occurs entirely inside the exclusion band, now driven only by binary unconstrained morphological dilations. A point where two labeled models get into contact defines an edge point. The simulation goes on until the concurrent expansion of all models comes to a complete stop. At this point, the edges of the regions-of-interest have been extracted. Interactivity introduces the possibility to correct small imperfections in the edge positioning by changing a parameter controlling action-reaction or by changing marker's size, position and shape. Slightly inspired by traditional approaches as PDE Level-Set based curve evolution and Immersion Simulation, the algorithm presents a solution to the problem of "synchronizing the concurrent evolution of a large number of models" and an "automatic stopping criterion" for the front propagation. Integer arithmetic implementation assures linear execution time. The results obtained for real applications show that even ill-defined edges can be located with the desired accuracy, thanks to algorithm features and to the interactivity exerted by the user during the segmentation procedure.


A rapid flow method for the production of radical-anions for electron
spin resonance (e.s.r.) observation is described whereby liquid ammonia
solutions of sodium and substrate are mixed in the cavity of the spectrometer.
The mixing-cell consists of several capillary tubes placed in a glass jacket
narrowing at one end to form a nozzle. Liquid ammonia soltelons are
passed under pressure of nitrogen through capillary tubes and interstices
and radical-anlons can be observed within a few milliseconds of mixing.
Results are presented in five chapters. The reduction of pyridine
and substituted pyridines is described in ChapterII; with the exception of
one mono- and all dicarboxylic acid derivatives, simple monomer radical-anions
are formed. Pyridinecarboxylic acids ionise in liquid ammonia
solution and in some cases the ionized proton attaches itself to the radical-anion
forming an N- protonated species. N- protonation is also seen
for pyridine itself when reduced in the presence of a large excess of
ethanol, a strong acid in ammonia. A complementary static reduction
technique is used to observe reduction on a longer time scale where
several dimeric products are observed, for example 2,6-dimethylpyridine
gives 2,2',6,6'-tetramethyl-4,4'-dipyridyl radical-anion.
Carbon halogen bond-cleavage occurs rapidly when aryl hallides,
except fluorides, are reduced (Chapter III). The halogen atom in fluorobenzonitriles shows varying degrees of lability; for example, a mixed
spectrum of halogenated and dehalogenated radical-anions is seen for
para-fluorobenzonitrile while even after the insertion of a one second
delay between points of mixing and observation only the halogenated
radical-anion is observed for meta-fluorobenzonitrile.
Aromatic carboxylic acid reduction (Chapter IV) produces the expected
radical-anions, with the exception of two nitro di-acids which produce a
mixture of radicals on the flow system, and a spectrum possibly
corresponding to a radical-anion similar to the parent nitro di-acid on
static reduction. Analysis of the major flow spectrum again indicates a
protonated species.
Styrenes and benzamides show non-equivalent ring protons resulting
in complex spectra (Chapters V and VI). The 'alpha effect' is used in
Huckel and McLachlan molecular orbital calculatlons for styrenes where
one ortho ring position is given a small Coulomb integral value.
The results of the reduction of some -unsaturated ketones are
discussed in Chapter VI. Analysis of the spectrum of mesityl oxide
radical-anion is straightforward, while slow 'ring-flip' from one conformer
to another is responsible for inequivalent methylene protons in isophorone
and 2-cyclohexen-1-one.


Background
 Undernutrition in mental illness remains a major problem. However, limited attention has been paid to addressing the problem. In Zambia, there is paucity of information on this subject. This study aimed at establishing the prevalence of undernutrition and determining the association between undernutrition and mental illness, using body mass index (BMI, kg/m²), at Chainama Hills Hospital in Lusaka. The study also investigated socio- demographic factors associated with undernutrition in mental illness.
Methods
A descriptive cross sectional study based on quantitative approaches involving 412 men and women was conducted at Chainama Hills Hospital. A short questionnaire was administered after obtaining a written informed consent. Patients were examined by the Principle Investigator. The weight (Kg) and height (m) and resulting BMI were measured using a standardized scale, stadiometer and BMI calculator respectively. The diagnosis of mental illness and current medication was obtained from the patient's medical file as indicated by the attending Psychiatrist. The classification of mental illness is based on the DSM V manual. Bivariate and multivariate analysis with Stata v 13.1was carried out.

Results
The prevalence of undernutrition in the study was 29% across all mental illness types seen at the time. The prevalence was higher among patients with Alcohol use disorders (38%). The odds of undernutrition was significantly higher among Alcohol use disorders than any other type of mental illness odds ratio (OR) = 2.7 (P<0.001, 95% CI), adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.5 (P<0.01, 95%CI). The odds of undernutrition was much lower among patients with Convulsive disorder OR= 0.24 (P= 0.04, 95%CI), aOR= 0.28 (P=0.04, 95%CI). After adjusting for socio-demographic factors, the odds were still higher in Alcohol use disorders aOR= 2.1 (P<0.01, 95%CI), and still lower among Convulsive disorders aOR= 0.31 (P=0.06, 95%CI). Factors associated with undernutrition included male gender, low level of education, low social economic status and hospitalization.

Conclusion
The prevalence of undernutrition in Mental illness was 29% in this study. Alcohol use disorders were strongly associated with undernutrition while Convulsive disorders were protective. Based on the results of this, treatment of Alcohol use disorders should always include appropriate nutritional supplementation. Anthropometric measurements should be routine for all patients at the hospital. This will reduce morbidity in mental illness due to undernutrition. It is strongly recommended that a policy to regulate the drinking habits and patterns in Zambia be put in place. This should help to reduce avoidable mental illness morbidity due to Alcohol abuse.


Beta 2-Microglobulin expression on hepatocyte membrane was studied in 117 liver biopsies from patients with acute and chronic hepatitis B and in 11 subjects with normal liver function, using immunohistochemical PAP method. In normal liver beta 2-microglobulin could not be detected on hepatocyte membrane, compared with that in subjects with normal liver, in asymptomatic HBsAg carrier and in patients with chronic persistent hepatitis, there is significant enhancement of beta 2-microglobulin expression in patients with acute mild hepatitis and chronic mild active hepatitis. Beta 2-Microglobulin expression in patients with chronic active hepatitis with moderate to severe activity and cirrhosis has a significant enhancement, when compared with acute mild hepatitis and chronic mild active hepatitis. Moreover, location of beta 2-microglobulin expression on hepatocyte membrane was associated with lesion of hepatocytes. Enhanced expression of beta 2-microglobulin on hepatocyte membrane in acute and chronic hepatitis B probably reflects enhanced display of HLA-ABC antigens and may influence the course of hepatitis B virus infection by increasing susceptibility of T cell-mediated hepatocytelysis.


SWARM INTELLIGENCE: FROM NATURAL TO ARTIFICIAL SYSTEMS by Eric Bonabeau, Marco Dorigo, and Guy Theraulaz Oxford University Press, 1999, 307 pp. Swarm Intelligence: From Natural to Artificial Systems is a fascinating survey of a new approach to artificial intelligence inspired by and modeled on the behavior of social insects. This technique uses "autonomy, emergence, and distributed functioning" in place of "control, preprogramming, and centralization" (p.xi). The idea here is that complex structures emerge from the simple behaviors of a large number of interacting individuals. Swarm intelligence refers to the intelligent behavior emerging from these swarms of individuals. Each chapter in Swarm Intelligence shows how a biological example taken from social insect behavior can be used as a "metaphor to design an algorithm, a multiagent system, or a group of robots" (p. xii). Chapter 1 is an introduction to swarm intelligence. After a quick look at the classic biological examples of emerging structure (army ant raids, honey bee wax combs, termite nests, etc.), the authors highlight the concepts of self-organization and stimergy. Which refers to the indirect interaction of individuals that occurs when one individual modifies the environment, and another subsequently responds to that modification. A short discussion of swarm-based robotics finishes the introduction and sets the stage for the remainder of the book. Chapter 2 describes the collective foraging behavior of ants, and the algorithms inspired by this behavior. The application of ant-based algorithms to the traveling salesperson problem and the quadratic assignment problem is given in detail. The detailed algorithms are given in a transparent pseudo-code that can be easily implemented in any high-level programming language (e.g., Java, C+ + , Visual Basic). Ant-based algorithms for job scheduling, graph coloring, and vehicle routing are also presented. The third chapter of Swarm Intelligence explores a class of algorithms inspired by division of labor and task allocation among social insects. This chapter has fewer applications than the previous chapter, and spends a considerable amount of space investigating theoretical issues. The only detailed application is a "toy" application of task allocation in a multiagent system. Unlike Chapter 2, which will be accessible and appealing to programmers, Chapter 3 will be daunting for all but the most sophisticated mathematics student. …


A longstanding debate surrounds the related hypotheses that low-curvature minima generalize better, and that stochastic gradient descent (SGD) discourages curvature. We offer a more complete and nuanced view in support of both hypotheses. First, we show that curvature harms test performance through two new mechanisms, the shift-curvature and bias-curvature, in addition to a known parameter-covariance mechanism. The shift refers to the difference between train and test local minima, and the bias and covariance are those of the parameter distribution. These three curvature-mediated contributions to test performance are reparametrization-invariant even though curvature itself is not. Although the shift is unknown at training time, the shift-curvature as well as the other mechanisms can still be mitigated by minimizing overall curvature. Second, we derive a new, explicit SGD steady-state distribution showing that SGD optimizes an effective potential related to but different from train loss, and that SGD noise mediates a trade-off between low-loss versus low-curvature regions of this effective potential. Third, combining our test performance analysis with the SGD steady state shows that for small SGD noise, the shift-curvature is the dominant of the three mechanisms. Our experiments demonstrate the significant impact of shift-curvature on test loss, and further explore the relationship between SGD noise and curvature.


Quantification of RNA transcripts with RNA-Seq is inaccurate due to positional fragmentation bias, which is not represented appropriately by current statistical models of RNA-Seq data. Another, less investigated, source of error is the inaccuracy of transcript start and end annotations. This article introduces the Mix2 (rd. "mixquare") model, which uses a mixture of probability distributions to model the transcript specific positional fragment bias. The parameters of the Mix2 model can be efficiently trained with the EM algorithm and are tied between similar transcripts. Transcript specific shift and scale parameters allow the Mix2 model to automatically correct inaccurate transcript start and end annotations. Experiments are conducted on synthetic data covering 7 genes of different complexity, 4 types of fragment bias and correct as well as incorrect transcript start and end annotations. Abundance estimates obtained by Cufflinks 2.2.0, PennSeq and the Mix2 model show superior performance of the Mix2 model in the vast majority of test conditions. The Mix2 software is available at http://www.lexogen.com/fileadmin/uploads/bioinfo/mix2model.tgz, subject to the enclosed license. Additional experimental data are available in the supplement.


A detailed study was conducted of the tradeoffs involved in the design of silicon planar transistors tolerant to fast-neutron irradiation up to 1 × 1015 nvt. Initial measurements made on irradiated 2N918 transistors indicated that breakdown voltage and collector current range must be sacrificed in order to improve device radiation resistance. The tradeoffs relating post-irradiation hFE to transistor fT, saturation region characteristics to breakdown voltage, and usable collector current range to length of emitter periphery are discussed in detail. The cptirn design is a high frequency, lcw breakdawn voltage transistor with a narrow usable current range. Transistors were fabricated having hFE greater than 5 over a wide tenwrature range after irradiation to 1 × 1015 nvt.


There are selective innovative features and reasons for innovation that drive firm growth. Various reasons are analyzed which are behind the innovation decisions undertaken by the firms and innovative features' effects on revenue growth in Bangladeshi firms to better understand the preferred determinants in certain geographic areas. This research investigates how the features of firm‐level innovation and the reasons to launch it can affect the revenue growth of firms in developing countries. The findings suggest innovative features that are less expensive to offer lead to higher revenue growth and offer strategic implications for firms implementing innovations in developing countries.


Modern and past ridge subduction events are characterized by the intrusion of midocean-ridge basalt (MORB) magmas into an overlying accretionary prism. The fi eld relationships and trace-element geochemistry of Ordovician mafi c igneous rocks of the Weeksboro-Lunksoos and Munsungun anticlinoria of north-central Maine indicate that they resulted from such an event. The Bean Brook gabbro intrudes the Hurricane Mountain melange and other related sedimentary strata of continental derivation. The gabbro and associated Dry Way volcanics have MORB trace-element chemistries, while the Bluffer Pond and Stacyville volcanics are more enriched (E-MORB), all of which indicate derivation from a mid-ocean ridge. On petrogenetic diagrams, mafi c samples plot in MORB fi elds, or when Th is used as a discriminator, in arc fi elds along trends that originate from MORB fi elds and extend toward the composition of upper continental crust. These trends are consistent with the presence of silicic and metasedimentary xenoliths in the Dry Way volcanics and Bean Brook gabbro and indicate the magmas were not subduction products, but were contaminated by Th-rich upper continental crust. The nearby Chain Lakes Massif likely represents the basement to the "Chain Lakes microcontinent," and the geographic relationship and ages of the massif, Hurricane Mountain melange, and Dry Way‐Bean Brook magmatic rocks indicate northwestdirected subduction (modern coordinates) on the southeastern margin of the Chain Lakes microcontinent, within the Early to Middle Ordovician Taconic ocean. Subduction at this boundary probably terminated because of the ridge subduction, analogous to Neogene California.


With the growing in size and complexity of modern computer systems, the need for improving the quality at all stages of software development has become a critical issue. The current software production has been largely depended on manual code development. Despite the slow development process, the errors introduced by the programmers contribute to a substantial portion of defects in the final software product. This paper explores the possibility of generating code and assertion constraints from formal design models and use them to verify the implementation. We translate Z formal models into their OCL counter-parts and Java assertions. With the help of existing tools, we demonstrate various checking at different levels to enhance correctness.


This study explored on the nature of conflicts between the Borana and Meru communities in Isiolo County. Specifically the study sought to establish the causes of the conflicts, establish the forms of the conflicts, and determine the effect of the conflicts on the communities and what can be done to resolve the conflicts between the two communities. The literature was reviewed on the concept of conflict, structural conflicts and violence, causes of conflicts, the effects of conflict on affected population and government and community based conflict management strategies. The theories used in the study are conflict theory, rational choice theory and social exchange theory. The study was carried out in Isiolo central division in the seven estates in Isiolo town namely: Wabera, Tulu Roba, Odha, Gambela, Kiwanjani, Bula pesa and Kula Mawe. The target population involved both adults and youths living in the estates employing both probabilistic and non-probabilistic sampling methods. A sample size of 140 house holds was randomly picked from the seven (7) estates. The data was collected through face to face interviews, focus groups, key informants and structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS, Excel and Word computer packages based on the study objectives. The major findings were that, the conflicts occurring between Borana and Meru communities take different forms. These are religious conflicts, boundary (geographical) conflicts. The conflicts mainly occur because of the land struggle between the two communities and are currently being blamed on the devolved system of government. Some are seeing a possibility in which the conflicts may escalate to the levels of the Tana Delta conflicts if not effectively addressed. Therefore the study recommends that the National government through its various agencies like parliament, Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (IEBC), National Land Commission (NLC), National Land Tribunal (NLT) to carry out fresh land and boundary dispute between Isiolo and Meru and demarcate it guided by all pre and post colonial maps especially of 1969. The process should involve all stakeholders including the minorities and the pastoralists communities who were neglected in the past when a similar exercise was carried out.


Aim. Comparative assessment of laboratory and instrumental parameters of patients with heart failure (HF) after myocardial infarction at admission and discharge from the hospital to determine the long-term mortality risk.Material and methods. The clinical outcomes of 117 patients with stage II-III  (Strazhesko-Vasilenko Classification) heart failure (64 men and 53 women) were studied. All patients admitted to the hospital underwent laboratory and instrumental examination. The average follow-up for patients after discharge from the hospital was 3 years (12 to 44 months). The long-term mortality risks of HF patients were compared according to the examination data upon admission and discharge from the hospital.Results. The long-term mortality risk factors of HF patients at admission are the levels of pro-brain natriuretic peptide (proBNP) (risk 1,08, p=0,001), D-dimer (risk 1,062, p=0,018), urea (risk 1,048, p=0,016), creatinine (risk 1,006, p=0,016), alanine transaminase (risk 1,002, p=0,009). The long-term mortality risk factors of HF patients at discharge are urea (risk 1,141, p=0,001), N-terminal proBNP (risk 1,101, p=0,002), and the number of neutrophils (risk 1,064, p=0,002).Conclusion. There is a difference in risk factors for long-term mortality risk of HF patients at admission and discharge from the hospital.


Abstract Castor canadensis (American Beaver) typically construct lodges out of tree trunks, branches, and mud, or dig dens into banks at the edges of water bodies. We observed Beavers in a Mississippi swamp using a hollow Taxodium distichum (Baldcypress) snag as a lodge. In 2016, they had constructed a mound inside of the snag and were observed sitting out of the water inside of the snag. In subsequent years, they continued to use the snag and, in autumn of 2020, constructed a more traditional lodge against it. After being disturbed, Beavers took refuge in another nearby hollow snag on 2 occasions. Beavers are adaptable, occasionally using unusual materials to construct lodges or dams or occupying non-traditional structures, but we found no previous account of them residing inside of a standing hollow tree.


Maternal magnesium requirements increase during pregnancy because of the synthesis of new tissue--both fetal and maternal. Magnesium takes part in almost 300 enzymatic reactions in the human body and regulates membrane permeability and protein bio-synthesis by promoting initiation and dissociation factors. The absorption velocity of magnesium differs from one tissue to another in animal experiments. It is highest in the liver, kidney, heart and is low in skeletal muscle, the brain and erythrocytes. It obeys and follows the Michaelis-Menten Kinetic law. 15 mmol of magnesium is consumed daily depending on the types of food takenin. The main sources of magnesium are vegetables and meats. Many Nigerian women are not able to afford enough of these. The amount of magnesium reabsorbed depends on the magnesium intake and not on magnesium needed which is about 10-40% of the intake. In this study, we examined the short-term effect of magnesium asphat HCL (614.18 mgMG), magnesium diasporal (magnesium citrate 610 mg + magnesium laevalitat 30 mg = 100 mg magnesium = 8.2 mval), ferrous gluconate (300 mg) plus folic acid and chemiron, a new combination hematinic agent (ferrous fumarate 300 mg, folic acid 5 mg, vitamin B12 10 mg, vitamin C 25 mg, magnesium sulfate 0.3 mg and zinc sulfate 0.3 mg) on plasma magnesium concentration during early pregnancy in Nigerian women. Significant increases of plasma magnesium concentrations were found in these groups (magnesium asphat HCL, 0.83 +/- 0.12 to 0.96 +/- 0.14 mmol/l, magnesium diasporal 0.843 +/- 0.14 to 0.891 +/- 0.14 mmol/l and chemiron 0.848 +/- to 0.866 +/- 0.16 mmol/l after five days. The ferrous gluconate and folic acid treated group showed no significant changes. This study shows that a chemiron supplement leads to increased magnesium plasma levels whereas ferrous gluconate and folic acid do not. These results suggest that the low level of magnesium is a normal physiological adjustment of pregnancy and that iron supplementation does not influence this unless magnesium salt is given.


The current sociolinguistic study focuses on Language identity in foreign language classes. This research primarily focused on practical study for the constructs of language, culture, and identity in foreign language classes. In addition, this research also provided theoretical contributions for identity while embracing the existing body of knowledge. With a growing number of cosmopolitan cultures sending students into new locations, the need for knowledge about how individuals and students effectively combine and connect to their host country is paramount.

Have you ever considered what number of diverse languages, religions, cultures there are on the planet? Make that inquiry or maybe goggle it; however we are certain the response won't really can't be observed that effortlessly. The relationship between language, identity and social distinction is a significant sympathy toward numerous sociolinguists and analysts.

As it is well-known, language, identity and cultural variation are nearly joined and influence one another. Individuals who talk more than one foreign language, or who basically talk a foreign language realize that itis not simply enough to know that specific language. At the point when getting a foreign language it is exceptionally vital to think about the province where that specific language is talked, and afterward to learn something about the society displayed in that nation. Since there are various diverse languages and they all fit in with a certain group where certain outflows are not quite the same as in alternate groups.

Consider British and American English, for some individuals they are one language having distinctive articulation, for some they are totally diverse dialects, and maybe
for some these two speak to something completely different. What is identity and how it identified with the language we talk, are a few perspectives that are managed throughout this paper.

This study suggests a need to draw stronger theoretical connections between the constructs of language and identity. On the individual level of study, language and identity form and reform constantly to emerge as new individual. However, as this study has suggested, the entity may greatly influence the group's fundamental ideas of culture and identity.

Key words: Language, culture, foreign language teaching language, identity.


The vibrational properties of vitreous silica are discussed in light of recent results obtained using a first-principle approach. The high-frequency doublet appearing in the inelastic neutron spectrum results from different local modes of the tetrahedral subunits and is not related to the longitudinal-optic-transverse-optic (LO-TO) splitting observed with infrared spectroscopy. The highest energy component of this doublet is suppressed in infrared spectra, which show a marked LO-TO splitting associated to the lowest energy component of the doublet.


AIM
Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) is an imaging method that can discriminate between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and other liver lesions. The purpose of this study is to present our experience concerning the use of CEUS in the characterization of HCCs.

MATERIAL AND METHOD
We included in our study all the patients evaluated in our Department from September 2009 to October 2010, with focal liver lesions (FLLs) on abdominal ultrasound (US) that were diagnosed as HCCs after CEUS examination, also patients with chronic liver disease with focal liver lesions highly suspected to be HCCs but with an inconclusive pattern on CEUS. One hundred patients with 148 HCCs were included. The enhancement pattern of the nodules was evaluated according to the 2008 EFSUMB Guidelines. Nodules displaying arterial hyperenhancement with "washout" in the portal/venous phase on CEUS were considered diagnostic for HCC. Nodules considered indeterminate after CEUS were evaluated by contrast-enhanced CT or MRI for diagnosis.

RESULTS
Among the 100 patients included, 96 were patients with chronic liver disease and 4 were patients without known liver disease. 71 patients had a solitary nodule, 16 patients had two nodules and 13 patients had three or more nodules. 112 HCCs had a typical enhancement pattern and 36 nodules were considered indeterminate after CEUS and were sent to CT/ MRI for diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS
75.7% of the studied liver nodules were diagnosed by CEUS as HCCs, thus CEUS is an easy method, convenient to perform, avoiding other expensive examinations.


In nature plants are often exposed to a multitude of biotic and abiotic stress factors (e.g. drought, herbivory and infections) that occur sequentially or simultaneously. To withstand these stresses plants have evolved defense mechanisms that allow them to cope with diverse stresses. However, still little is known about how these adaptive mechanisms cooperate to maximize plant survival under multistress conditions. Our research reveals that plants are well-capable of adjusting their defense strategy when encountering multiple stresses. To investigate how plants cope with multi-stress conditions, we analyzed the dynamics of whole-transcriptome profiles of Arabidopsis thaliana exposed to three individual and six sequential double stresses inflicted by combinations of: (i) infection by the necrotrophic fungus Botrytis cinerea, (ii) herbivory by caterpillars of Pieris rapae, and (iii) drought stress. Each of these stresses induced specific expression profiles over time, in which one-third of all differentially expressed genes was shared by at least two single stresses. Still, a first stress encounter leaves a transcriptional stress mark that can adversely affect plant defenses to a second stress event, indicating that plant multi-stress interactions are affected by simultaneous or sequential stresses. Aside from a flexible defense response, we also find natural variation in globally collected A. thaliana plants for their resistance to B. cinerea as individual stress or when preceded by drought stress or herbivory by P. rapae. In search for the genetics underlying the variation in plant susceptibility, we found genes that are potentially involved in plant adaptive responses to the applied sequential stresses. Genes with both known and putative roles in defense against each of the applied stresses were identified. In a subsequent study, we compared the tolerance of plants to diverse (a)biotic stresses and sequential stress combinations in order to find genes involved in plant multistress resistance. Plants that are resistant to multiple stresses are well-adapted to grow in diverse environmental settings and can therefore ensure efficient and sustainable food production in the future. With a genetic study we revealed genes involved in one or more (a)biotic stresses. Validation of one of the identified genes revealed its involvement in tolerance to multiple stresses, indicating that with our approach it is possible to find genes involved in plant multi-stress tolerance. To minimalize crop damage, prevention of stress encounters is another approach of reducing crop losses instead of looking for plant adaptive responses that allow plants to cope with multiple stresses. For instance, by preventing egg-deposition by butterflies, subsequent herbivory by their offspring is avoided. In search of plant traits that are unfavorable for P. rapae, we studied plant selection for egg-deposition on naturally occurring A. thaliana plants. We observed variation in egg-deposition that was partially influenced by daylight, the experimental cage setup, plant size, spontaneous chlorosis and necrosis and the presence of secondary metabolites. A genetic study revealed genes of which one gene was shown to significantly associate with plant defense against caterpillars, jasmonic acid induced defenses. Butterflies might be capable of detecting differences in jasmonic acid defenses and select host plants that will benefit their offspring the best. Future functional analysis of the JA biosynthesis gene and the other identified candidate genes will be required to reveal their role in host selection for oviposition by P. rapae. In sum, this research has shown that plants have an incredible ability to adapt to and integrate diverse stress signals into an effective defense response. Knowledge on these natural adaptive capabilities and the natural genetic variation hereof forms a valuable basis for the sustainable development of stress resilient future crops.


The (bitwise) complement $\overline{x}$ of a binary word $x$ is obtained by
changing each $0$ in $x$ to $1$ and vice versa. An $\textit{antisquare}$ is a
nonempty word of the form $x\, \overline{x}$. In this paper, we study infinite
binary words that do not contain arbitrarily large antisquares. For example, we
show that the repetition threshold for the language of infinite binary words
containing exactly two distinct antisquares is $(5+\sqrt{5})/2$. We also study
repetition thresholds for related classes, where "two" in the previous sentence
is replaced by a larger number.
 We say a binary word is $\textit{good}$ if the only antisquares it contains
are $01$ and $10$. We characterize the minimal antisquares, that is, those
words that are antisquares but all proper factors are good. We determine the
growth rate of the number of good words of length $n$ and determine the
repetition threshold between polynomial and exponential growth for the number
of good words.


This essay argues that the Wake views the civil conflicts of 1922 as symptomatic of a much older malady rooted in the myth of the Irish High Kingship. The central parallel is the Wake's conflation of Roderick O'Connor, the last High King of Ireland, and Rory O'Connor, a key figure in the Irish Civil War. Such political disasters as Dermot MacMurrough's alliance with Henry II and the betrayal of Charles Stewart Parnell are seen as part of a larger pattern of self-division and betrayal that grew out of the power struggle of kings. This malady was exacerbated by such things as a lack of clarity about laws of succession, the factional proliferation of royal centers, and the tendency to appeal to outside powers to settle internal disputes. Rather than being de-centered, the Wake is seen as multi-centered, fissured by opposing camps. The partisan idealization of these figures and Brian Boru by the O'Brien and Cormac MacArt by the O'Neill in order to legitimate political ambitions also served to disturb the harmony of Irish society and make it vulnerable to colonial incursions. Finally, the "rain of Tarar" unleashed by the Irish Civil War is seen as an extension of "the reign of Tara" in which an arbitrary power posed as a harmonizing royal center. This seemingly interminable battle of the brothers is also mediated by a, perhaps utopian, vision of reconciliation and truce.


Recently, virtuall pseudo-point-based 3D object detection that seamlessly fuses RGB images and LiDAR data by depth completion has gained great attention. However, virtual points generated from an image are very dense, introducing a huge amount of redundant computation during detection. Meanwhile, noises brought by inaccurate depth completion significantly degrade detection precision. This paper proposes a fast yet effective backbone, termed Vir-ConvNet, based on a new operator VirConv (Virtual Sparse Convolution), for virtual-point-based 3D object detection. VirConv consists of two key designs: (1) StVD (Stochastic Voxel Discard) and (2) NRConv (Noise-Resistant Sub-manifold Convolution). StVD alleviates the computation problem by discarding large amounts of nearby redundant voxels. NRConv tackles the noise problem by encoding voxel features in both 2D image and 3D LiDAR space. By integrating VirConv, we first develop an efficient pipeline VirConv-L based on an early fusion design. Then, we build a high-precision pipeline Vir Conv-T based on a transformed refinement scheme. Finally, we develop a semi-supervised pipeline VirConv-S based on a pseudo-label framework. On the KITTI car 3D detection test leader-board, our VirConv-L achieves 85% AP with a fast running speed of 56ms. Our VirConv-T and VirConv-S attains a high-precision of 86.3% and 87.2% AP, and currently rank 2nd and 1st11On the date of CVPR deadline, i. e., Nov.11, 2022, respectively. The code is available at https://github.com/hailanyi/VirConv.


Purpose: To study the qualitative and quantitative features of choroidal neovascular (NV) membranes in age-related macular degeneration using optical coherence tomography angiography in patients with active and quiescent NV lesions before and after treatment with anti–vascular endothelial growth factor. Methods: Macular optical coherence tomography angiography images were obtained using RTVue XR Avanti with AngioVue. Morphologic features and quantitative measurements of the NV lesion were analyzed using en face projection images. The NV lesion was subdivided into inner segment and outer fringe for further fractal dimension analysis. Results: In a series of 31 eyes, 11 eyes with active NV lesions at baseline and after consecutive follow-up after treatment with anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy and 20 eyes with quiescent NV lesions were included in this study. Morphologically, all the quiescent NV lesions versus 63.6% of the active NV lesions demonstrated a prominent central vessel and active leasions demonstrated a greater rate of small vessels branching (82%) and peripheral arcades (82%) than quiescent lesions (30% and 40% respectively) and this was statistically significant. The lesion area and vessel density was not statistically significantly different after treatment or versus quiescent lesions although the latter lesions were reduced in area. Lesion pattern complexity measured by the fractal dimension was statistically significantly lower in the inner part of the lesion after treatment and statistically significantly lower in the total lesion of the quiescent NV compared with the active NV. Conclusion: Optical coherence tomography angiography is a new, noninvasive imaging modality that can be used to perform qualitative and quantitative analyses of NV lesions. In the future, OCT angiography may provide biomarkers of activity and guide the evaluation and treatment and monitoring of neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration.


This paper explores the impacts that autonomous (also called self-driving, driverless or robotic) vehicles are likely to have on travel demands and transportation planning. It discusses autonomous vehicle benefits and costs, predicts their likely development and implementation based on experience with previous vehicle technologies, and explores how they will affect planning decisions such as optimal road, parking and public transit supply. The analysis indicates that some benefits, such as independent mobility for affluent non-drivers, may begin in the 2020s or 2030s, but most impacts, including reduced traffic and parking congestion (and therefore road and parking facility supply requirements), independent mobility for low-income people (and therefore reduced need to subsidize transit), increased safety, energy conservation and pollution reductions, will only be significant when autonomous vehicles become common and affordable, probably in the 2040s to 2060s, and some benefits may require prohibiting human-driven vehicles on certain roadways, which could take longer.


This study focuses on modeling discourse coherence in the context of automated assessment of spontaneous speech from non-native speakers. Discourse coherence has always been used as a key metric in human scoring rubrics for various assessments of spoken language. However, very little research has been done to assess a speaker's coherence in automated speech scoring systems. To address this, we present a corpus of spoken responses that has been annotated for discourse coherence quality. Then, we investigate the use of several features originally developed for essays to model coherence in spoken responses. An analysis on the annotated corpus shows that the prediction accuracy for human holistic scores of an automated speech scoring system can be improved by around 10% relative after the addition of the coherence features. Further experiments indicate that a weighted FMeasure of 73% can be achieved for the automated prediction of the coherence scores.


Providing the majority of runoff into the Laptev Sea, the Lena River and its
associated delta have become an indicator for recent and future environmental change
in the Arctic Region. However, a detailed examination on the hydrodynamics over
complex topography in the delta region and its interaction with the estuary has been
missing. This study aims to fill this gap by a series of high-resolution numerical
simulations based on a state-of-the-arts Discontinous Galerkin (DG) regional 3D
ocean model, UTBEST3D, under different discharge conditions. The first task is
to tune the numerical model and reproduce the velocity regimes and discharge
distributions in different major sub-channels in the delta. The second task is to
scrutinise the potential flooding area due to ocean surface waves, river runoff and
the coupling of these.


Abstract We conducted an experiment using freshwater painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) to determine if keeping turtles out of water for an hour enhances anoxia recovery following a simulated bycatch event in nets (i.e., 12 hrs of submergence at 25°C). Traditional blood physiology measures and the novel application of a reflex impairment index (e.g., responses to gravity, light, and tactile stimuli) indicated that keeping turtles in or out of water for an hour did not yield a significant improvement in anoxia recovery; however, when the majority of reflexes are impaired, in particular the tactile response (e.g., limb movements), it appears that assisted recovery (keeping turtles out of water) can reduce the chance of postrelease mortality. The use of the reflex impairment index is a simple and inexpensive way to determine turtle bycatch condition after submergence in nets and discern whether assisted recovery may be required.


In the business year beginning on April 1 1999 or later our accounting standards have been greatly changed. Concretely (1) the disclosure of consolidated financial statements as audited documents, (2) consolidated statements of cash flows, and (3) tax consequences accounting have been introduced in the business year beginning on April 1 1999 or later. In addition (4) the standard for fair value accounting of financial instruments and (5) the accounting standard for employees' retirement benefits (Hereafter this accounting standard will be abbreviated to retirement benefits accounting) have been introduced in the business year beginning on April 1 2000 or later. This has been often called, 'Big Bang Reforms of Accounting Standards' in our country. The reforms of accounting standards are still now in progress. In this paper I tried to analyze not only the direct effects of the above 5 new accounting standards into the figures of financial statements of Japanese companies, but also the ripple effects into their behaviors and our economic performances on macro basis. Also I tried to consider the implications of the changes of Japanese companies caused by the Big Bang Reforms of Accounting Standards for economic policy makers. For the transition from the former accounting standards to the new ones, Japanese companies had been forced to report the huge amount of costs as extra-ordinary losses in FY1999, FY2000, and FY2001. However, the amount of extra-ordinary losses has continued to show a decrease since FY 2001. This could indicate that Japanese companies have made progress to adapt with new accounting standards. Additionally Japanese companies with the capital of 10 billion yens or more in particular have improved their performances of indicators such as ROA, ROE and turnover of tangible assets since FY2002. Moreover the close relationships between banks and private companies through cross-shareholding stocks, has been weak. These changes on micro basis could affect Japanese economy as a whole. One of the above possible positive effects may be that private investments have shown a recovery mainly due to the improvements of rate of return of Japanese companies as a natural effect of new accounting standards, accompanied by the export boom and strong demand for digital electronic devices. On the other hand, considering at least the following two examples, it may be meaningful to reconsider the effects of economic policy measures to private corporations' activities under the new accounting standards. (1) As many Japanese companies have been streamlined, there has been produced fund surplus in private non-financial corporations' sector as a whole. In contrast the amount of fund surplus in households sector has been decreased due to the lack of enough size of flow of fund from private non-financial corporations to household sector as well as to the effect of the aging population. If we should try to reduce fund shortage in general government sector on the assumption that the size of fund surplus in private corporations' sector would be unchanged, by definition, this might increase the size of fund shortage in overseas sector or decrease the size of fund surplus in households sector. However there may be limitations to the both above changes, whereas we cannot expect very much that private corporations will increase compensation of employees. (2) The retirement benefits accounting may weaken the effect of loose monetary policy. One example for this is that the low interest rate policy has been increasing the amount of retirement projected benefits obligation of companies through the decline of discount rate under retirement benefits accounting, and decreasing expected rate of return on pension assets, although it has much contributed to the decrease of interest repayments of companies with lots of liabilities. (Note) Any opinions and views in this paper should not be interpreted as those of the organization, which the author is belonging to. In addition any possible mistake in this paper is responsible exclusively for myself. I am very grateful to my colleagues in the Research and Statistics Department of the Policy Research Institute of Ministry of Finance for providing me with the relevant data and information on accounting standards and taxation system. Also I thank the people in Ministry of Finance and Financial Supervisory Agency for extremely helpful comments. Moreover I really appreciate the assistance of Ms. Nagai, and her colleague in Research Department of this institute to correct the tables and the charts in this paper from the initial stage.


The aim of this study was to assess the effect of adhesion between the non-polar, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) matrix and the glass fiber fillers of various lengths treated with the commercially available "KH-550" agent, on the mechanical and tribological properties of the UHMWPE-based composites. The motivation was to find the optimal compositions of the polymer composite, for the compression sintering manufacturing of lining plates for the protection of marine venders and construction vehicles, as well as transport equipment. It was shown that the initial powder size at equal molecular weight determined the distribution patterns of the glass fibers in the matrix, and, as a consequence, the mechanical and tribological properties of the composites. Based on the obtained experimental data and the results of the calculation by a developed computer algorithm, control parameters were determined to give practical recommendations (polymer powder size and glass fiber length), for the production of the UHMWPE-composites having specified mechanical and tribological characteristics. The "GUR4022 + 10% LGF" composite, loaded with the chopped 3 mm glass fibers treated with the "KH-550", was recommended for severe operating conditions (high loads, including impact and abrasive wear). For mild operating conditions (including cases when the silane coupling agent could not be used), the "GUR2122 + 10% MGF" and "GUR2122 + 10% LGF" composites, based on the fine UHMWPE powder, were recommended. However, the cost and technological efficiency of the filler (flowability, dispersibility) and polymer powder processing should be taken into account, in addition to the specified mechanical and tribological properties.


Vasaka or Adhatoda vasica (L.) Nees is a well-known plant medication in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. Cough, whooping cough, cold, and clinging phlegm in the mouth, throat, chest, or breast have been traditionally treated using Adhatoda vasica nees. The present study aimed to evaluate Adhatoda vasica's phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial activity. The preliminary phytochemical screening of alkaloids, steroids, saponins, phenols, and terpenoid yielded positive results. The antibacterial activity of ethanol and leaf extracts of Adhatoda vasica was investigated in this study. Based on the data presented herein, the largest zone of inhibition was found to be against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The antifungal activity of Aspergillus clavatus was proven to have the maximum zone of inhibition. As a result, the current method may be effective in identifying new bioactive compound for the development of novel medications. Thus, it may be used as a strong antimicrobial agent against Pseudomonas aeruginosa pathogens.


Kathon CG (K-CG) containing as active ingredients 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one and its 5-chloro analogue, is a very effective and widely used preservative system for cosmetics and toiletries. Of 243 patients routinely patch tested because of suspected contact dermatitis 8 (3.3%) reacted to K-CG 100 ppm in water. All but 1 patient allergic to the preservative used cosmetics of 2 brands very widely distributed in the Netherlands, both containing K-CG. The observed positive patch test reactions were shown to be relevant in all these cases. Repeated open application tests were positive in 3/5 of the patients tested. The pertinent literature is reviewed. It is concluded that contact allergy to K-CG is common. Sensitization usually occurs from creams and lotions applied to damaged skin (irritant dermatitis, atopic dermatitis), but some patients become sensitized by cosmetic products used on healthy skin, especially on the face and around the eyes. The risk of induction and/or elicitation of contact dermatitis from the use of rinse-off products such as soap, shampoo and shower foam is small.


There is a constant interest in the performance capabilities of active suspensions without the associated shortcomings of degraded fuel economy. To this effect, electrodynamic dampers are currently being researched as a means to approach the performance of a fully active suspension with minimal or no energy consumption. This paper investigates the regenerative capabilities of these dampers during fully active operation for a range of controller types—emphasizing road holding, ride, and energy regeneration. A model of an electrodynamic suspension is developed using bond graphs. Two model predictive controllers (MPCs) are constructed: standard and frequency-weighted MPCs. The resulting controlled system is subjected to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) roads A–D and the results are presented. For all of the standard MPC weightings, the suspension was able to recover more energy than is required to run the suspension actively. All of the results for optimal energy regeneration occurred on the standard Pareto tradeoff curve for ride comfort and road holding. Frequency weighting the controller increased suspension performance while also regenerating 3–12% more energy than the standard MPC.


Abstract Focusing on a story exposing Donors Trust (DT) as a funding source for climate denial campaigns, we introduce actor-network theory (ANT) as a methodological tool for studying online intermedia agenda-setting. The DT story, unveiled by prominent British media in early 2013, had the potential to become a global media sensation. However, this did not occur in two distinct communication actor-networks, Russia and Canada, raising questions regarding climate change journalism and agenda-setting in contemporary networked news environments. This article takes a fresh approach to studying agenda-setting processes by using ANT to trace connections between national climate agendas, networks of power and sites of mediated information. By mapping ties between attributes of DT story actor-networks, it illuminates moments that preclude or facilitate intermedia agenda-setting in online media networks. This demonstrates ANT's potential to help better understand processes of information dissemination in an era characterised by the exceptional interconnectedness of media landscapes.


Objectives: In this study, we aimed to compare the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) levels of migraine patients with and without gliotic lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods: The records of the patients who were followed up in the neurology outpatient clinic of Ufuk University, Faculty of Medicine, between 2016 and 2019 with the diagnosis of migraine between the ages of 18 and 50 were reviewed retrospectively. Eighty-six patients without systemic, neurological, and infectious diseases between 18 and 50 years of age were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 – subclinical ischemic/gliotic lesions on MRI and Group 2 – normal MRI. Subparameters and calculated NLRs in whole blood results were compared between the two groups. Results: When the two groups were compared in terms of leukocyte and neutrophil counts, a statistically significant difference was found. The leukocyte and neutrophil counts of the patients in Group 1 were significantly higher than those of Group 2 (P = 0.038/P = 0.004). NLR was higher in patients with gliotic lesions on MRI than in patients with normal MRI and was statistically significant (P = 0.016). Conclusion: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between NLR and white matter lesions in patients with migraine. We have conducted this study to see if we can confirm this with a parameter in migraine patients with white matter lesions. Despite the small number of patients, leukocyte count, neutrophil count, and NLR were significantly higher in migraine patients with white matter lesions which support our hypothesis.


Estradiol (E(2)) acts on the endothelium to promote vasodilatation through the release of several compounds, including prostanoids, which are products of arachidonic acid metabolism. Among these, prostacyclin (PGI2) and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) exert opposite effects on vascular tone. The role of different estrogen receptors (ERs) in the PGI2/TXA2 balance, however, has not been fully elucidated. Our study sought to uncover whether E(2) enhances basal production of PGI2 or TXA2 in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), to analyze the enzymatic mechanisms involved, and to evaluate the different roles of both types of ERs (ERalpha and ERbeta). HUVECs were exposed to E(2), selective ERalpha (1,3,5-tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-propyl-1h-pyrazole, PPT) or ERbeta (diarylpropionitrile, DPN) agonists and antagonists (unspecific: ICI 182 780; specific for ERalpha: methyl-piperidino-pyrazole, MPP). PGI2 and TXA2 production was measured by ELISA. Expression of phospholipases, cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2), PGI2 synthase (PGIS), and thromboxane synthase (TXAS) was analyzed by western blot and quantitative RT-PCR. E(2) (1-100 nM) dose dependently increased PGI2 production (up to 50%), without affecting TXA2 production. COX-1 and PGIS protein and gene expressions were increased, whereas COX-2, phospholipases, and TXAS expression remained unaltered. All these effects were mediated through ERalpha, since they were produced not only in the presence of E(2), but also in that of PPT, while they were abolished in the presence of MPP. In conclusion, E(2), acting through ERalpha, up-regulates COX-1 and PGIS expression, thus directing prostanoid balance toward increased PGI2 production.


Abstract In recent years, wet (washing, bleaching, etc.) and dry (abrasive, laser shaping, rodeo, etc.) operations applied on fashion denim products have become an important factor to increase the added value. However, these wet and dry processes applied to the denim products may have adverse effects on the strength of the fabric and other supplementary materials of denim products. For example, thread breakages affect the repair ratios and quality of products, which causes time and profitability losses in companies. The main objective of this study is to analyse how the types of washing affect the strength of the sewing threads that are commonly used in the production of denim trousers. In this study, 100% cotton denim fabric with a weight of 11.5 ounces and two different sewing threads were used. The fabrics are sewn as trouser legs with chain and lock stitch. Five different washes were applied to the trouser legs. The obtained data were evaluated in the R statistical program. As a result of the analyses made it is proven that the washing techniques used have an effect on the sewing threads' tensile strength and elongation at break. The tensile strengths of lock stitch and chain stitch decrease averagely 35% and elongation at break of lock stitch decreases %22 and chain stitch decreases 29.8%.


Presentation of the chapter from the book by Maksymenko, S.D. (2018).  Psychology of human learning: genetically-modeling approach. Kyiv.
The monograph considers the personality, its sources, structural components and its inward world in terms of genetic psychology. The principles for construction of experimental genetic and genetically-modeling methods as the most adequate for explanation of laws and mechanisms of appropriation, formation and development of human abilities and genesis of personality development are presented for the first time. Genetically-original units of various abilities and "needs" as sources for stimulating activity of individual (Latin: Vis vitalis - vital power), its deepness and initial unity (synthetic character) (Latin: Vis vitae - vital force) that constitutes the personality are presented.
The following fundamental analysis is made:
-       theory of learning as a way for development and self-realization of personality;
-       study as a public form for management of learning and personality development;
-       learning as a direct and by-product of study.
The following specific peculiarities for needs (in vital force or vital power) were found:
-       energy informative virtues of human in onto- and phylogenesis;
-       genetic psychological problems, as well as personality structure were fixed;
-       sources and driving forces of personality activity were proved (presented);
-        fundamentally new personality structure, its forecast for development and life way; life (existence) of human; realization of love and needs and motivational regulators for life way of personality inward space


Generation of kidney organoids from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) is regarded as a potentially powerful way to study kidney development, disease, and regeneration. Direct differentiation of PSCs towards renal lineages is well studied, however, most of the studies relates to generation of nephron progenitor population from PSCs. Until now, differentiation of PSCs into ureteric bud (UB) progenitor cells demonstrates limited success. Here, we describe a simple, efficient and reproductive protocol to direct differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) into UB progenitor cells. The mESC–derived UB cells were able to induce nephrogenesis when placed in the interaction with the primary metanephric mesenchyme (pMM). In generated kidney organoids, the embryonic pMM developed nephron structures and the mESC-derived UB cells formed network of collecting ducts, connected with the nephron tubules. Altogether, our studies established an uncomplicated and reproducible platform for kidney disease modelling, drug testing and regenerative medicine applications.


Mitochondria are heterogeneous and highly dynamic organelles, playing critical roles in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, metabolic modulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and cell differentiation and death. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been recognized as a contributor in many diseases. The kidney is an organ enriched in mitochondria and with high energy demand in the human body. Recent studies have been focusing on how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of different forms of kidney diseases, including acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). AKI has been linked to an increased risk of developing CKD. AKI and CKD have a broad clinical syndrome and a substantial impact on morbidity and mortality, encompassing various etiologies and representing important challenges for global public health. Renal mitochondrial disorders are a common feature of diverse forms of AKI and CKD, which result from defects in mitochondrial structure, dynamics, and biogenesis as well as crosstalk of mitochondria with other organelles. Persistent dysregulation of mitochondrial homeostasis in AKI and CKD affects diverse cellular pathways, leading to an increase in renal microvascular loss, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and eventually renal failure. It is important to understand the cellular and molecular events that govern mitochondria functions and pathophysiology in AKI and CKD, which should facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies. This review provides an overview of the molecular insights of the mitochondria and the specific pathogenic mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in the progression of AKI, CKD, and AKI to CKD transition. We also discuss the possible beneficial effects of mitochondrial-targeted therapeutic agents for the treatment of mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated AKI and CKD, which may translate into therapeutic options to ameliorate renal injury and delay the progression of these kidney diseases.


International graduate students are coming in ever-growing numbers to English-speaking countries. Educators have long believed that the successful English-learning experience of these students in their home countries will naturally lead to success in their academic studies and social life abroad. However, this may be not true. Using my English-learning experiences as a basis for research, in this article I explore the role of target-language improvement in adaptation to new environments. Based on a supportive sociocultural theory of second-language acquisition, the article provides recommendations for assisting international graduate students, especially those from East Asia, to enhance their academic performance and quality of life in Canada.


Some infectious agents have been associated with B-cell lymphoma development. In the last decades, it has been demonstrated that patients infected by hepatitis C virus (HCV) are more likely to develop B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) than those uninfected. The prevalence of HCV-infection among NHL patients is reported in this review of all Italian studies on NHL and HCV infection, both case-control and case series. From 18 studies, the prevalence of anti-HCV antibodies in 2736 NHL patients was 19.7% (range: 8.3-37.1%). The association of HCV-infection with each NHL histotype in case-control studies is discussed. Molecular mechanisms by which HCV infection promotes B-cell NHL development is also explored and indicate that HCV-associated lymphomas may be a distinct entity. Clarification of these mechanisms may improve diagnosis, classification and therapy of this subset of NHL. Finally, treatment of HCV-positive patients with lymphoproliferative disorders are herein summarized and further support the notion that HCV infection contributes to the development of these pathologic conditions.


Abstract. Drought is an important climatic risk that is expected to increase in frequency, duration, and severity as a result of a warmer climate. It is complex to model due to the interactions between atmospheric and continental processes. A better understanding of these processes and how the current modelling tools represent them and characterize drought is vital. The aim of this study is to analyse how regional climate models (RCMs) represent meteorological, soil moisture, and hydrological drought as well as propagation from precipitation anomalies to soil moisture and streamflow anomalies. The analysis was carried out by means of standardized indices calculated using variables directly related to each type of drought: precipitation (SPI), soil moisture (SSMI), runoff (SRI), and streamflow (SSI). The RCMs evaluated are the CNRM-RCSM4, COSMO-CLM, and PROMES. All of the simulations were obtained from the Med-CORDEX database and were forced with ERA-Interim. The following datasets were used as references: SAFRAN (meteorological drought), offline land surface model simulations from ISBA-3L and ORCHIDEE (soil moisture drought), a SIMPA hydrological model simulation, and observed streamflow (hydrological drought). The results show that RCMs improve meteorological drought representation. However, uncertainties are identified in their characterization of soil moisture and hydrological drought, as well as in drought propagation. These are mainly explained by the model structure. For instance, model structure affects the temporal scale at which precipitation variability propagates to soil moisture and streamflow.


To better understand eruptive events in the solar corona, we combine sequences of multi-wavelength observations and modelling of the coronal magnetic field of NOAA AR 8210, a highly flare-productive active region. From the photosphere to the corona, the observations give us information about the motion of magnetic elements (photospheric magnetograms), the location of flares (e.g., Hα, EUV or soft X-ray brightenings), and the type of events (Hα blueshift events). Assuming that the evolution of the coronal magnetic field above an active region can be described by successive equilibria, we follow in time the magnetic changes of the 3D nonlinear force-free (nlff) fields reconstructed from a time series of photospheric vector magnetograms. We apply this method to AR 8210 observed on May 1, 1998 between 17:00 UT and 21:40 UT. We identify two types of horizontal photospheric motions that can drive an eruption: a clockwise rotation of the sunspot, and a fast motion of an emerging polarity. The reconstructed nlff coronal fields give us a scenario of the confined flares observed in AR 8210: the slow sunspot rotation enables the occurence of flare by a reconnection process close to a separatrix surface whereas the fast motion is associated with small-scale reconnections but no detectable flaring activity. We also study the injection rates of magnetic energy, Poynting flux and relative magnetic helicity through the photosphere and into the corona. The injection of magnetic energy by transverse photospheric motions is found to be correlated with the storage of energy in the corona and then the release by flaring activity. The magnetic helicity derived from the magnetic field and the vector potential of the nlff configuration is computed in the coronal volume. The magnetic helicity evolution shows that AR 8210 is dominated by the mutual helicity between the closed and potential fields and not by the self helicity of the closed field which characterizes the twist of confined flux bundles. We conclude that for AR 8210 the complex topology is a more important factor than the twist in the eruption process.


Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with the striatum. Previous studies indicated that subdivisions of the striatum with distinct functional connectivity profiles contribute to different pathogeneses in PD. Segregated structural covariance (SC) pattern between the striatum and neocortex observed in healthy subjects, however, remain unknown in PD. The purpose of this study is to map and compare the subregional striatal SC network organization between 30 healthy controls and 48 PD patients and to investigate their association with the disease severity. The striatal SC network was statistically inferred by correlating the mean gray matter (GM) volume of six striatal subdivisions (including the bilateral dorsal caudate, superior ventral striatum, inferior ventral striatum, dorsal caudal putamen, dorsal rostral putamen, and ventral rostral putamen) with the entire neocortical GM volume in voxel‐wise manner. The PD patients revealed marked atrophy in the striatum, cerebellum, and extra‐striatum neocortices. As predicted, segregated striatal SC network patterns were observed in both groups. This suggests that in PD, pathological processes occurring in the striatum affect the same striato‐cortical networks that covary with the striatum in healthy brains. The PD patients further demonstrated atypical striatal SC patterns between the caudate, parahippocampus temporal cortices, and cerebellum, which corresponded to dopaminergic associated network. The areas with significant group differences in SC were further associated with disease severity. Our findings support previous studies indicating that PD is associated with altered striato‐cortical networks, and suggest that structural changes in the striatum may result in a cascade of alterations in multiple neocortices. Hum Brain Mapp 36:1567–1584, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.


Existing medium access control (MAC) schemes for wireless local area networks (WLANs) have been shown to lack scalability in crowded networks and can suffer from widely varying delays rendering them unsuited to delay sensitive applications, such as voice and video communications. These deficiencies are mainly due to the use of random multiple access techniques in the MAC layer. The design of these techniques is highly linked to the choice of the underlying physical (PHY) layer technology. The advent of new PHY schemes that are based on orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) provides new opportunities for devising more efficient MAC protocols. We propose a new adaptive MAC design based on OFDMA technology. The design uses OFDMA to reduce collision during transmission request phases and makes channel access more predictable. To improve throughput, we combine the OFDMA access with a carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) scheme. Data transmission opportunities are assigned through an access point that can schedule traffic streams in both time and frequency (subchannels) domains. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed MAC and compare it to existing mechanisms through simulation and by deriving an analytical model for the operation of the MAC in saturation mode.


In the first part of this paper, an analysis is made of the relative roles of machining on the one hand and forging and casting on the other as means of producing form. Specific reference is made to the newer methods such as electrochemical machining and pressure die casting of ferrous materials. A similar analysis is made of joining processes, contrasting fusion with bonding methods. In the second part it is pointed out that manufacturing technology is available; the need is for exploitation and application. It is emphasized that this can only be achieved by an involvement from within the manufacturing unit itself. A proposal is put forward for achieving this objective.


Abstract Background:  Transabdominal placement of a cervical cerclage appears to be safe and effective procedure in reducing pregnancy loss in selected patients with cervical incompetence. It can be placed almost at the internal os, by laparoscopy or laparotomy, in non-pregnant or pregnant state and can be left in situ till the woman's obstetric career is complete. Objective:  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of transabdominal cerclage placement, in terms of obstetric and perinatal outcomes in the study population. Material and methods:  We conducted a five years retrospective study on consecutive women undergoing transabdominal cerclage from 2010 to 2015 at 'Me and Mummy' hospital, Surat (Gujarat). Data was retrieved from medical records. Eligible women had past history suggestive of cervical incompetence, previous failed transvaginal cerclage or short cervix unfavourable for transvaginal cerclage. The primary outcome of the study was to measure neonatal survival rate whereas the secondary outcomes were delivery after 34 weeks of gestation and procedure related complications. Results:  Total 25 women underwent transabdominal cerclage during the study period. In 24 women the procedure was done by laparoscopy and in one woman laparotomy was done. Twenty two women underwent interval cerclage and three women underwent antenatal placement of cerclage. Total 17 pregnancies and 21 foetuses were evaluated during the study period (four pairs of twins). Neonatal survival rate was 95.65 % ( 20 of 21 babies). Out of 17 women, 11 women delivered after 37 weeks (64.70%), four women after 34 weeks (23.52%), one woman after 28 weeks of gestation and one woman had inevitable miscarriage within one week of procedure. There were no procedure related complications. Conclusion:  Transabdominal cerclage in selective cases and in expert hands is a safe and effective procedure resulting in favourable obstetric and neonatal outcomes in women with poor obstetric history due to cervical incompetence. Keywords:  Transabdominal cerclage; Cervical incompetence; Transvaginal cerclage; Laproscopy


Integral impellers are very important parts in the fields of aerospace, shipping and locomotive, whose manufacturing accuracy directly affects performance of key equipments. In developed countries special NC programming software is widely used in order to manufacture integral impellers, the vast majority of enterprises have not special NC programming software of integral impellers owing to expensive cost in China. Key technology of 5-axis NC Programming for integral impellers was solved by using the general software UG and precision machining of integral impellers had been implemented in 5-axis high-speed machining centre.


Using a measure of competition based on the Panzar-Rosse model, this paper explains bank competition across 76 countries on the basis of various determinants. Studies explaining banking competition are rare and typically insuffciently robust as they are based on a limited number of countries only. Traditionally, market structure indicators, such as the number of banks and banking concentration, have been considered the major determinants of competition in the banking sector. However, we find that these variables have no significant impact on market power. Instead, we show that a country's institutional framework is a key factor in explaining banking competition. Extensive regulation, particularly antitrust policies, improves the competitive environment. The foreign investment climate, a proxy of contestability, also plays an important role. The fewer restrictions on foreign investments exist, the more competitive the banking sector becomes. In addition, activity restrictions make large banks less competitive and collusion markups are procyclical. Finally, competition is substantially weaker in countries with a socialist past, such as Central- and Eastern Europe.


Objectives To determine the effect of glucocorticoids (GC) on the risk of cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods A population-based cohort study was carried out using administrative health data on 7051 individuals with RA onset between 1997 and 2001 and no exposure to GC before RA onset. Follow-up was until 2006. GC exposure was defined in four ways: current use (yes/no), current dose (mg/day), cumulative dose (grams) and cumulative duration of use (years). All were used as time-dependent variables updated monthly. CVA were ascertained using hospitalisation and vital statistics data. Transient ischaemic attacks were not considered as CVA. Cox regression models adjusting for demographics, cardiovascular drug use, propensity scores and RA characteristics were used. Results The mean age of the cohort was 56 years and 66% were women. Over 6 years' mean follow-up (43 355 person-years), 178 incident CVA cases were identified. GC current use was not associated with a significant increase in the risk of CVA (HR=1.41, 95% CI 0.84 to 2.37). Similarly, the models that accounted for daily dose (HR=1.07, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.21 for each 5 mg increase in the daily dose), cumulative duration of use (HR=1.1, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.32 for each year accumulated in the past) and total cumulative dose (HR=1.04, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.08 per gram accumulated in the past) were also not significantly associated with CVA. Conclusions This large population-based study indicates that GC use is not associated with an increased risk of CVA in cases with RA.


Crohn's disease is characterised by gradual development of intestinal fibrotic lesions containing large amounts of collagen type I, III, and V. Measurement of circulating connective tissue metabolites has emerged as a useful tool for assessment of fibroproliferative activity in various diseases. Serum concentrations of procollagen peptides, N-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen (PII-INP), and C-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PICP), reflect the synthesis rate of the parent collagens, while the C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP) reflects its degradation. S-PIIINP, S-PICP, and S-ICTP were measured by radioimmunoassays in 29 patients with active Crohn's disease. S-ICTP was significantly increased, median 6.2 micrograms/l (95% CI 5.2 to 8.7 micrograms/l) versus controls 2.6 micrograms/l (2.5 to 2.7 micrograms/l) (p < 0.0001), S-PICP reduced, 100 micrograms/l (80 to 110 micrograms/l) versus 132 micrograms/l (124 to 141 micrograms/l) (p = 0.001), and S-PIIINP did not differ from controls. Patients with sustained clinical remission during prednisolone therapy exhibited an increase in S-PICP (p = 0.0052). S-PIIINP changed significantly (p = 0.0002), however, exhibiting a biphasic pattern. S-ICTP decreased (p = 0.015) in treatment responders but remained above the upper normal limit even when clinical remission had been achieved. Non-responders showed no significant changes in any of the marker molecules of collagen synthesis or degradation. Correlations were found between S-PIIINP and S-PICP (p < 0.005) and S-ICTP (p < 0.02), and between S-ICTP and S-orosomucoid (p < 0.005) and S-C reactive protein (p < 0.02). By contrast, there was no relation between the connective tissue metabolites and Harvey Bradshaw Index. These data provide evidence that collagen I degradation is increased not only in active Crohn's disease, but also in patients entering clinical remission. The concurrent normal/low-normal values of markers of collagen formation may reflect a changed local or systemic elimination of the propeptides.


Permafrost is widespread in China, especially in Northeast China and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Regions like Qinghai-Tibet Plateau have the most strenuous crustal movement. Therefore, earthquake-resistance of structures in permafrost region is an important issue. Furthermore, the permafrost will degenerate gradually as global warming mounts up. In some regions permafrost thickness tends to attenuate. Most bridge designs adopt pile foundation in order to reduce the effects of instable frost. The deterioration of frost leads to degradation of anti-seismic performance of bridges' pile foundations. Pile-soil dynamic interaction numerical analysis models are established based on data of indoor low-temperature dynamic triaxial tests. Studies are performed on the dynamic stiffness and damping characters and the influencing factors of pile foundation under vertical harmonic load in frozen and thawing soil. The result shows that the dynamic response of the pile decreases along the depth, and the frictional resistance around the pile mainly distributes along the upper half of the pile, and the dynamic stiffness and damping of the pile are affected by temperature. Dynamic stiffness increases as temperature goes down, whereas the decrease of the temperature of frozen soil can notably lower the dynamic damping of the head of the pile. As the frequency of the dynamic load augments, the dynamic stiffness of the head increases marginally, whereas frequency has little influence on damping. The relative thickness of the frozen and thawing soil layer has considerable influence on dynamic stiffness, but negligible on damping.


Heart involvement by amyloid deposition remains the most challenging of all organ sytems that may become involved, in what is generally a systemic disease. The correct diagnosis of amyloid type is critical to selection of the appropriate and wide range of therapies. The treatment of amyloid heart disease comprises two strategies: conventional management of a restrictive cardiomyopathy, and varied therapies aimed at the underlying amyloidogenic process. In light chain (AL) amyloidosis, many of the most efficacious therapies involve chemotherapeutic agents with their own inherent toxicities to the heart and bone marrow. In the case of the hereditary amyloidosis, major surgery in the form of liver transplantation is usually required. Moreover, consideration should be given to screening of family members for a potentially hereditary disease. Several types of amyloidosis may require one or more, of heart, liver and/or kidney transplantation, sometimes in addition to high-dose chemotherapy. The objective is to provide a schematic overview of available therapies in the management of AL, hereditary, senile systemic, isolated atrial and secondary forms of amyloidosis.


The purpose of this article is to highlight aspects of the constitutional process after Namibia gained its independence, particularly in the Constituent Assembly. It is intended to complement other discussions of the Constitution, the majority of which pay scant attention to the important interaction between process and outcome. In the Namibian context this connection is important for two related reasons. On the one hand, certain provisions of the Constitution can only be understood in terms of the debate which led to them; on the other, the courts may well need to have recourse to the history of a particular provision in order to establish its true meaning.


Dengue and chikungunya are viral diseases transmitted to humans by infected Aedes spp. mosquitoes. With an estimated 390 million infected people per year dengue virus (DENV) currently causes the most prevalent arboviral disease. During the last decade chikungunya virus (CHIKV) has caused large outbreaks and has expanded its territory causing millions of cases in Asia, Africa and America. The viruses share a common mosquito vector and during the acute phase cause similar flu-like symptoms that can proceed to more severe or debilitating symptoms. The growing overlap in the geographical distribution of these mosquito-borne infections has led to an upsurge in reported cases of DENV/CHIKV co-infections. Unfortunately, at present we have little understanding of consequences of the co-infections to the human host. The overall aim of this study was to define viral replication dynamics and the innate immune signature involved in concurrent DENV and CHIKV infections in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). We demonstrate that concomitant infection resulted in a significant reduction of CHIKV progeny and moderate enhancement of DENV production. Remarkably, the inhibitory effect of DENV on CHIKV infection occurred independently of DENV replication. Furthermore, changes in type I IFN, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, MCP-1 and IP-10 production were observed during concomitant infections. Notably, co-infections led to a significant increase in the levels of TNF-α and IL-6, cytokines that are widely considered to play a crucial role in the early pathogenesis of both viral diseases. In conclusion, our study reveals the interplay of DENV/CHIKV during concomitant infection and provides a framework to investigate viral interaction during co-infections.


In ageing populations, there is an increased co-occurrence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and dementia. Moreover, T2DM increases the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. We studied to what extent clinicians at memory clinics should take into account the presence of T2DM. T2DM patients had a diffuse profile of objective cognitive impairment, with marked interindividual variation. Cognitive profiles of memory clinic patients with and without T2DM were similar. At the memory clinic, a standard neuropsychological assessment is appropriate for T2DM patients. Any objective cognitive impairment is relevant, as it can affect diabetes self-management. Patterns of brain injury were largely similar between patients with and without T2DM, with MCI or dementia. Our results and the literature combined suggest that non-AD-related neurodegeneration may contribute to MCI and dementia in patients with T2DM. At the memory clinic, establishing an etiological diagnosis does not need adjustment in T2DM patients. Presence of T2DM was not associated with a worse clinical outcome in patients with MCI or dementia during two years follow-up. At the memory clinic, patients with or without T2DM can be informed about their prognosis similarly. We reviewed experimental rodent studies, showing that glucose-lowering drugs improve cognitive functioning through pleiotrophic effects on the brain. Whether these promising results also translate into improved cognitive outcomes for T2DM patients has yet to be established. In conclusion, establishing a diagnosis and prognosis at the memory clinic in T2DM patients can be carried out according to standard practice, without T2DM-specific adjustments.


Abstract
Purpose
In this chapter, we draw on health lifestyle, human capital, and health commodity theories to examine the effects of educational attainment on a wide range of individual dietary behaviors and dietary lifestyles.

Methodology/approach
Using data from the 2005-2006 iteration of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 2,135), we employ negative binomial regression and binary logistic regression to model three dietary lifestyle indices and thirteen healthy dietary behaviors.

Findings
We find that having a college degree or higher is associated with seven of the thirteen healthy dietary behaviors, including greater attention to nutrition information (general nutrition, serving size, calories, and total fat) and consumption of vegetables, protein, and dairy products. For the most part, education is unrelated to the inspection of cholesterol and sodium information and consumption of fruits/grains/sweets, and daily caloric intake. We observe that having a college degree is associated with healthier dietary lifestyles, the contemporaneous practice of multiple healthy dietary behaviors (label checking and eating behaviors). Remarkably, household income and the poverty-to-income ratio are unrelated to dietary lifestyles and have virtually no impact on the magnitude of the association between education and dietary lifestyles.

Originality/value
Our findings are consistent with predictions derived from health lifestyle and human capital theories. We find no support for health commodity theory, the idea that people who are advantaged in terms of education live healthier lifestyles because they tend to have the financial resources to purchase the elements of a healthy lifestyle.


Inducing Mesenchymal
stem cells to differentiate into cardiomyocycte-like cells and endothelial
progenitor cells orientedly and evaluating the curative effect of the
associated cell transplantation on the rabbit myocardial infarction (MI). Methods: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)
were isolated from the bone marrow of 24 rabbits and cultured in special cell
culture medium containing 5-azacytidine
(5-AZA), endothelial cell growth supplements (ECGS), vascular endothelial
growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth
factor (BFGF) respectively. The cell transplantation was performed 2
weeks after MI. Rabbits were divided into control group, cardiomyocytes-like
cell group, endothelial progenitor cell group
and combination group. We used the echocardiography to measure the heart
function 2 to 4 weeks after MI, TTC to measure the area of the infarction, flow
cytometry to estimate the cell apoptosis. Results: After induced, MSCs were differentiated orientedly into cardiomyocycte-like cells (CLCs)
and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). CLCs became greater and had a "stick"
or "ball" shape. Transmisson electron microscopy showed that the cells had oval
nuclei positioned in the central part and
well organized myofilaments, atrial granules and mitochomdrion. RT-PCR
showed the expression of the atrial natriuretic polypeptide, phospholamban and
myosin heavy chain in CLCs. EPCs formed confluent one-celled layer which showed
a cobblestone shape by phase-contrast microscope. The expression of CD133 in
EPCs was much at first and then descended gradually. Compared with the control
group, cell transplantation could improve the heart function, reduce the size
of MI, decrease the left ventricular end systole diameter and end diastolic
diameter, suppressed cell apoptosis. The curative effect of cell transplantation
was better in the associated-cell group than
in the single-cell transplantation group (LVEF: 32.49% ± 1.29% vs 53.22% ± 2.13% vs 56.91% ± 2.04% vs
62.61% ± 2.37%, P 0.04 vs 0.98 ± 0.12 vs 1.11 ± 0.03, P 0.02 vs 1.21 ± 0.09
vs 1.01 ± 0.01, P .98% vs 28.61% ± 1.24% vs 29.73% ± 2.11% vs 22.82%
± 3.12%, P % vs 6.94% ± 0.59% vs 6.4% ± 0.27% vs 4.63% ±
0.74%, P clusions: This study showed that MSCs can differentiate into CLCs and EPCs in the given conditions and the associated cell transplantation
is better than the single cell transplantation
to treat MI.


The Network-on-Chip (NoC) router buffers are instrumental in the overall operation of Chip Multi-Processors (CMP), because they facilitate the creation of Virtual Channels (VC). Both the NoC routing algorithm and the CMP's cache coherence protocol rely on the presence of VCs within the NoC for correct functionality. In this article, we introduce a novel concept that completely decouples the number of supported VCs from the number of VC buffers physically present in the design. Virtual Channel Renaming enables the virtualization of existing virtual channels, in order to support an arbitrarily large number of VCs. Hence, the CMP can (a) withstand the presence of faulty VCs, and (b) accommodate routing algorithms and/or coherence protocols with disparate VC requirements. The proposed VC Renamer architecture incurs minimal hardware overhead to existing NoC designs and is shown to exhibit excellent performance without affecting the router's critical path.


Lyme disease and adult onset Still's disease share several clinical characteristics such as fever, lymphosplenomegaly, skin involvement, and arthritis. Borrelia burgdorferi has been recognized as the cause of Lyme disease and an infectious agent has been suspected, at least as triggering factor, in adult onset Still's disease. This work is concerned with a patient affected by atypical Lyme disease originally diagnosed as adult onset Still's disease. B. burgdorferi infection must be suspected in cases of arthritis suggestive of adult onset Still's disease.


We test the hypothesis of Pareto optimal risk-sharing in a transition economy using a new dataset on a representative sample of 364 rural households from Romania. We identify income shocks as instances of adverse weather, crop and animal diseases, as well as illness and unemployment spells. Despite limited participation of Romanian rural households in formal insurance and credit markets, we fail to reject the hypothesis of full insurance of total non-durable consumption and its components. Survey responses indicate that the main channels of consumption smoothing are self-insurance (for adverse weather, crop and animal diseases), public transfers (for unemployment spells), and to a lesser extent, family ties. We find that adverse weather is associated with higher growth rates of non-food expenditures. Furthermore, richer households are better able to cope with crop failure than poorer households. An alternative explanation to our not rejecting the hypothesis of full insurance is that some shocks to consumption (e.g., illness) play the role of preference shifters of the utility function.