A systematic study was made of the use of tetranuclear Co 4-nRunHn(CO)12 (n = 0-4), Co2Ru2(CO)13 and Co4-nRhn(CO)12 (n = 0,1,2 or 4) clusters as catalyst precursors. Catalysts were characterized by temperatureprogrammed reduction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy techniques, and their activity and selectivity in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis were determined, as well as the effect on their performance of reaction temperature, pretreatment atmosphere and method of preparation. Monometallic Co4/SiO2 and Ru4/SiO2 catalysts were very active and all rhodium-containing Co 4-nRhn(CO)12/SiO2 catalysts were fairly weakly active in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Deactivation was associated with the bimetallic sites on cobalt-rhodium catalysts and with ruthenium on cobaltruthenium catalysts. The effect of temperature on the catalysts followed a characteristic trend: when the temperature increased, product selectivity shifted to lighter molecular mass compounds and selectivity for oxygenates mainly decreased. Per metal atom, refluxed catalysts tended to show higher activity in FischerTropsch synthesis than did the corresponding impregnated catalysts. However, since the metal content of the refluxed catalysts was significantly lower than that of impregnated ones, the overall reaction rates over refluxed catalysts were slower. In the bimetallic catalysts, the interaction between cluster and support probably occurred between the rhodium species and silica, and between ruthenium species and silica, not between cobalt and silica. Evidently rhodium and ruthenium interact more strongly with silica than cobalt does.


Abstract In this study, Co2B nanocrystals, which were synthesized in a planetary type mill by using the mechanochemical method, were pre-coated on the surface of S235JRC low carbon steel substrates, and then the surfaces were clad using a CO2 laser. In the experiments, laser scan speed was kept constant and laser power was specified as the variable parameter. The microstructure and phases of the coatings were investigated by using X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, and optical microscopy. The mechanical properties of the coatings were characterized using micro-hardness, ball-on-disc wear, and scratch testing. The thickness of the coatings depending on the laser power was measured in the range 35–71 μm. The hardness and the wear resistance of the coatings were approximately 3 times higher compared to the base metal due to FeN0.0760, Fe15.1C, FeCo, and B2C5N2 phases of the coatings. The most durable coatings against wear were obtained at 174 W and 220 W laser powers.


Livestock production represents a significant (14.5%) source of anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. A large share of the emissions from livestock production is due to enteric fermentation from ruminants, which produces methane (CH4), a potent GHG. Nevertheless, livestock production remains essential for nutrition, sustainability, and food security globally. In addition to atmospheric effects, CH4 emissions represent a direct loss of dietary energy from the animal. It is, therefore, imperative that solutions are developed and implemented to mitigate enteric CH4 emissions from ruminants. Methane is produced as a result of feed fermentation in the rumen, as carbohydrates are broken down to form energy in the form of volatile fatty acids, and carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen (H2) are produced as byproducts. Carbon dioxide and H2 are then utilized by methanogenic archaea to form CH4 via the hydrogenotrophic pathway. One proposed solution for mitigating enteric CH4 emissions are feed additives. Feed additives have the potential to decrease CH4 emissions while sustaining animal production parameters, the latter a necessary condition for incorporation as a regular part of the diet. To decrease CH4 emissions, feed additives can either directly or indirectly inhibit methanogenic archaea. Additives that directly inhibit methanogenesis include 3-nitrooxypropanol (3NOP) and halogenated CH4 analogs that naturally occur in some species of macroalgae. These additives work by interfering with the enzyme that catalyzes the final step of the methanogenesis pathway. Both 3NOP and halogenated CH4 analogs show great potential, demonstrating up to a 76% and 98% reduction in CH4 yield (g kg−1 dry matter intake), respectively. Nitrates (NO3−), ionophores, plant secondary compounds, and direct fed microbials are all feed additives that indirectly inhibit methanogenesis by altering the rumen environment, primarily through the reduction in substrate availability for methanogenic archaea. These additives, however, show more variability in their CH4 reduction potential (with the exception of NO3−) due to inconsistencies in composition. In order to present the most promising and immediate solutions to mitigate enteric CH4 emissions it is necessary to focus on recent advancements as feed additive research is rapidly evolving. Thus, this analysis aims to review feed additives with the potential to reduce enteric CH4 emissions that have been studied in vivo from 2018 to 2022.


elaborates a paradigmatic world-view in terms of its scriptural hermeneutic, understanding of halakhah and view of history (there are chapters illustrating each of these topics). The paradigm-shifts from one culture to the next often resulted in two or more cultures standing side-by-side; an historical fact sometimes misjudged by other historians (e.g., Shmueli takes Yitzchak Baer to task for not keeping his critical distance regarding the clash between the philosophic and mystical cultures in mediaeval Spain). Shmueli's own aim is to defend the authenticity of secular Jewish nationalism within Jewish history, and to establish the secularist values of tolerance, pluralism and perspectivism within Jewish thought. RABBI FRED MORGAN


The principles of photoelectrochemical generation of hydrogen using inorganic semiconductor/water interfaces are first outlined. Advantages in the use of oxide semiconductors for solar hydrogen generation are then enumerated. The requirements for the water splitting reaction in terms of the semiconductor photocatalyst(s) are then elaborated. Finally, preliminary results are presented on the use of electrodeposited p-Cu2O films for hydrogen generation in a twin-compartment photoelectrochemical cell using visible light and sacrificial reducing agents in the (dark) anode compartment.


AIM
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect, and molecular mechanism of Scutellaria Baicalensis Georgi stems and leaves flavonoids (SSF) in promoting neurogenesis and improving memory impairment induced by the PI3K-AKT-CREB signaling pathway.

METHODS
Alzheimer's disease (AD) was induced in the male Wistar rats by intracerebroventricular injection of amyloid beta-peptide 25-35 (Aβ25-35) in combination with aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) and recombinant human transforming growth factor-β1(RHTGF-β1) (composited Aβ). The Morris water maze was used to screen the successful establishment of the memory impairment model of rats. The screened successful model rats were randomly divided into a model group and three groups of three different doses of the drug (SSF). Rats in the drug group were treated with 35, 70, and 140 mg/kg of SSF for 43 days. The Eight-arm maze was used to measure the spatial learning and memory abilities of the rat, including working memory errors (WME) and reference memory errors (RME). Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of BrdU, an indicator of neuronal proliferation, in the hippocampal gyrus of rats. The mRNA and protein expressions of TRKB, PI3K, AKT, P-AKT, and IGF2 in the PI3K-AKT-CREB signaling pathway in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of the rats were determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting methods.

RESULTS
Compared to the sham group, the spatial memory ability of rats with composited Aβ was decreased, the number of WME and RME (P < 0.01) was increased, the expression of BrdU protein (P < 0.01) in the hippocampal gyrus was reduced, the mRNA and protein expression levels of TRKB, AKT, and IGF2 (P < 0.01, P < 0.05) in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex were lowered, and the mRNA expression level of PI3K (P < 0.01) in the cerebral cortex and the protein expression level of PI3K (P < 0.01) in the hippocampus were augmented. However, compared to the model group, the three-doses of SSF improved memory disorder induced by composited Aβ, reduced the number of WME and RME, increased the expression of BrdU protein in the hippocampal gyrus, and differently regulated the mRNA and protein expressions in composited Aβ rats.

CONCLUSION
SSF improved memory impairment and neurogenesis disorder induced by composited Aβ in rats by activating the PI3K-AKT-CREB signaling pathway and up-regulating the mRNA and protein expressions of TRKB, PI3K, AKT, CREB, and IGF2.


Chicagoland: City and Suburbs in the Railroad Age. By Ann Durkin Keating (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2005. Pp. X, 262. Illus., notes, index. Paper, $25.00). I am reasonably certain that Chicagoland: City and Suburbs in the Railroad Age will possess considerable appeal to anyone interested in the history of the Chicago region. I am quite certain that it will be much appreciated by those who like to try to read the history of a place in its built environment, since the book provides a wealth of information to aid those who, like this reviewer, are given to this kind of historical detective work. Candor compels announcement right at the outset that there are hurdles to the enjoyment of this work. One is the sentences in the text that contain fugitive extra words, or lack a needed word, or bear some other tell-tale sign that the proofreader was absent without leave. Another is sentences here and there that would not pass muster with Messrs. Fowler and Cowers. Another is the occasional sentence that, although formally correct, is constructed in such a way that its meaning is not captured on a first read. There are also a few footnotes that consist, in large part, of information contained in the main text, even quite proximate main text. In the end, however, these are small barriers to the reader's enjoyment, and especially so in the best parts of the book, those that illustrate the development of Chicagoland in the nineteenth century and, to a lesser extent, the early part of the twentieth century. The exposition starts with a review of the changes that occurred in the region's settlement patterns from the beginning of the nineteenth century until the arrival of the railroads at mid-century, then takes up, in turn, the development of the four kinds of railroad-age settlements into which the author sorts the region's population centers, namely farm villages, industrial towns, commuter suburbs, and recreational and institutional centers, and then turns to two examples of the conflicts that arose as the inhabitants of these different kinds of settlements confronted one another's competing visions of the good life as the region grew denser. A knowledgeable reader might, I suppose, take issue with the classification to which a particular population center is assigned, or to the exactness of some parallel that is identified in the way different areas of the region were developing at a given time. But these would be decidedly minor cavils. The strong facts are that these parts of the book contain a great quantity, and a great variety, of information about the growth of the region during the period under review, that the story of that growth is well anchored to specific places and specific structures which mark the kind of development being explored, that the reader's grasp of the classification of the railroad age's population centers is much benefited by maps that show the distribution of those centers by reference to their original raison d'etre, that the written word is supplemented by an arresting collection of illustrations with interesting captions, and that abundant footnotes point the way to more information on most facets of the story. It is hard to imagine anyone, accomplished historian or curious dilettante, who would not find new and interesting information in this material, and a lot of other information which if not new is worth absorbing anew. …


The influence of the up- and downstream acoustics on the buzzing behavior of artificial lips has been studied. In the presence of a long downstream pipe, the oscillation frequency is well predicted by means of a model assuming a single mechanical degree of freedom for the lips. A minimum of the threshold pressure for buzzing is observed when the lips are just closed at rest. The magnitude of this threshold pressure is underestimated by the model. In order to fit experiments the quality factor of the lip resonance has to be reduced by a factor two compared to the measured quality factor. In the absence of downstream pipe the threshold pressure increases by a factor three and a jump in oscillation frequency from one mechanical lip-mode to another one is observed as the lung pressure is increased. An attempt to describe this behavior by means of a 2-mass-model fails.


Like his elder brother Charles, Samuel Wesley (1766-1837) was an infant prodigy who had an oratorio to his credit by the time he was eight. He was generally considered to be the greatest organist in England, being famed especially for his extemporisations. However, the organ held a minor place in his output as a composer until he became acquainted with the music of J.S. Bach, which he worked untiringly to introduce to the British public. In the early 1800s Wesley began to write a series of voluntaries, published as his Opus 6, which were conceived on a scale grander than had previously been attempted. Although he reversed the general trend towards increasing the number of movements in the voluntary, he enlarged the dimensions of those that remained, gave them a greater impression of serious purpose, and accorded the fugue a status greater even than that which it had enjoyed in the time of Handel and Stanley. In the last twenty years of his life, while continuing to write grand voluntaries in the manner of Opus 6, Wesley also wrote organ music in smaller forms. Prominent among these more varied works are the short pieces, as he called them, miniatures which show his genius quite as clearly as the larger works. In 1774 the eight-year-old Wesley presented his oratorio to William Boyce: in 1837, just before he died, he played to Mendelssohn. Thus Wesley's life encompassed great changes in musical taste. That he was able to steer a straighter stylistic course through these changes than many of his lesser contemporaries may be attributed to his tendency to stand back from the immediate developments of his day and draw inspiration from older sources, notably polyphony and J.S.Bach; but the latter source particularly was also to be an inspiration to many of the most progressive composers for the next hundred years and more.


Backgrounds and objectives Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are multipotent cells with immunomodulatory functions that are of interest for therapeutic purposes in osteoarticular autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These functions are primarily mediated by soluble mediators that can be released within extracellular vesicles (EV). EVs consist of three main populations: exosomes, microvesicles and apoptotic bodies that mirror the effect of parental cells but little is known about the respective role of the various subsets of EVs secreted by a specific cell type. The aim of this study was to compare the immunomodulatory effects of exosomes and microvesicles released by MSCs and determine whether a pre-activation of MSCs before EV purification impacts their function. Materials and methods Exosomes and microvesicles were isolated from culture supernatants of murine primary MSCs by differential ultracentrifugation at 100K and 18K, respectively. Size and structure of exosomes and microvesicles were evaluated by NTA and/or electron microscopy. Expression of membrane and endosomal markers was tested by flow cytometry and Western blot. Proliferation of freshly isolated murine splenocytes or subpopulations of immune cells was quantified after 72 hour of incubation with different quantities of EVs, using the Cell TiterGlo assay and cytometry. In vivo, EVs were injected systemically in the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model. Results MSC-derived exosomes were around 120 nm in diameter and expressed CD9, CD81, TSG101 markers while microvesicles comprised a heterogeneous population of vesicles from 165 to 500 nm in diameter and expressed CD29, CD44 and Sca1 membrane markers. Addition of microvesicles or exosomes in proliferative assays significantly inhibited the proliferation of CD8+ T cells and increased Treg cell population with no effect on CD4+IFN+ T cells. In addition, proliferation and activation of B lymphocyte were decreased. These effects were independent of MSC pre-activation. The immunomodulatory function of both types of EVs was also observed in the CIA model of inflammatory arthritis with a significant reduction of clinical symptoms. Conclusion Our data indicated that the immunosuppressive effect of MSCs is at least in part mediated by EVs with no major differential role of exosomes or microvesicles on inflammatory immune cells in vitro or in vivo.


We developed a microfluidic chip setup for capillarity-assisted particle assembly (CAPA). A capillary bridge is formed between the aperture of a silicon chip and the assembly template. The bridge is fed with particle suspension through a microfluidic channel on the chip top side. With this setup, we can control the particle assembly location and tune the suspension composition during particle assembly. In this note, we describe the chip setup, the CAPA process using the microfluidic chip, and results of complex particle assemblies, such as composite particle arrays and particle gradients, that could not be obtained using a conventional CAPA setup.


A cyber-physical system (CPS) is one of the key technologies of industry 4.0. It is an integrated system that merges computing, sensors, and actuators, controlled by computer-based algorithms that integrate people and cyberspace. However, CPS performance is limited by its computational complexity. Finding a way to implement CPS with reduced complexity while incorporating more efficient diagnostics, forecasting, and equipment health management in a real-time performance remains a challenge. Therefore, the study proposes an integrative machine-learning method to reduce the computational complexity and to improve the applicability as a virtual subsystem in the CPS environment. This study utilizes random forest (RF) and a time-series deep-learning model based on the long short-term memory (LSTM) networking to achieve real-time monitoring and to enable the faster corrective adjustment of machines. We propose a method in which a fault detection alarm is triggered well before a machine fails, enabling shop-floor engineers to adjust its parameters or perform maintenance to mitigate the impact of its shutdown. As demonstrated in two empirical studies, the proposed method outperforms other times-series techniques. Accuracy reaches 80% or higher 3 h prior to real-time shutdown in the first case, and a significant improvement in the life of the product (281%) during a particular process appears in the second case. The proposed method can be applied to other complex systems to boost the efficiency of machine utilization and productivity.


In this project we explore the capability and flexibility of FPGA solutions in a sense to accelerate scientific computing applications which require very high precision arithmetic, based on IEEE 754 standard 128-bit floating-point number representations. Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) is increasingly being used to design high end computationally intense microprocessors capable of handling floating point mathematical operations. Quadruple Precision Floating-Point Arithmetic is important in computational fluid dynamics and physical modelling, which require accurate numerical computations. However, modern computers perform binary arithmetic, which has flaws in representing and rounding the numbers. As the demand for quadruple precision floating point arithmetic is predicted to grow, the IEEE 754 Standard for Floating-Point Arithmetic includes specifications for quadruple precision floating point arithmetic. We implement quadruple precision floating point arithmetic unit for all the common operations, i.e. addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. While previous work has considered circuits for low precision floatingpoint formats, we consider the implementation of 128-bit quadruple precision circuits. The project will provide arithmetic operation, simulation result, hardware design, Input via PS/2 Keyboard interface and results displayed on LCD using Xilinx virtex5 (XC5VLX110TFF1136) FPGA device.


A novel approach which extends blind source extraction (BSE) of one or group of sources to the case of post-nonlinear mixtures is proposed. This is achieved by an adaptive algorithm in which the cost function jointly estimates the kurtosis and a measure of nonlinearity. The analysis of both the quantitative and qualitative performance is provided, and simulation results are presented which illustrate the validity of the proposed approach.


The California red scale (CRS), Aonidiella aurantii (Maskell), is considered one of the most important pests of citrus in the Mediterranean basin as well as in other citrus growing areas worldwide. In Southern Italy, citrus is the most widely cultivated crop and the control of the CRS relies mainly on the application of synthetic insecticides. During 2009 and 2010, selected insecticides (spirotetramat, chlorpyriphos and pyriproxyfen) were evaluated against this pest in two calabrian citrus orchards (southern Italy) under integrated pest management. Treatments were performed according to the dosage reported on the label of the commercial products. Two treatments, at 15-day interval, were performed. Control plots were sprayed with water only. Efficacy was assessed 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after the first treatment and at the harvest. In both trials, spirotetramat showed the highest levels of efficacy against CRS and other citrus pests (citrus leafminer, and aphids) that were adequately controlled until the harvest.


World models learn the consequences of actions in vision-based interactive systems. However, in practical scenarios such as autonomous driving, there commonly exists noncontrollable dynamics independent of the action signals, making it difficult to learn effective world models. To tackle this problem, we present a novel reinforcement learning approach named Iso-Dream, which improves the Dream-to-Control framework in two aspects. First, by optimizing the inverse dynamics, we encourage the world model to learn controllable and noncontrollable sources of spatiotemporal changes on isolated state transition branches. Second, we optimize the behavior of the agent on the decoupled latent imaginations of the world model. Specifically, to estimate state values, we roll-out the noncontrollable states into the future and associate them with the current controllable state. In this way, the isolation of dynamics sources can greatly benefit long-horizon decision-making of the agent, such as a self-driving car that can avoid potential risks by anticipating the movement of other vehicles. Experiments show that Iso-Dream is effective in decoupling the mixed dynamics and remarkably outperforms existing approaches in a wide range of visual control and prediction domains.


Real-time systems need to exploit high-speed parallel processing technology to meet their strict timing requirements. A general parallel architecture may have multiple stages connected in a pipeline, where each stage has multiple servers.
This thesis deals with performance analysis of such parallel real-time systems. A regular pipeline model is proposed as a mathematically tractable model. A concept of optimal instance blocking is introduced to achieve flow balance at each stage. A minimum-response-priority-assignment algorithm is presented to achieve the minimum end-to-end response time for each task. A concept of instance distribution is introduced to schedule a task whose execution time is greater than its period.
A general model for a pipelined multi-server parallel real-time system is developed in stages, starting from a single server model. Each modelling stage uses results from the previous stages. The final performance model provides a schedulability test; calculates end-to-end task response times, required buffer space and optimal hardware capacity; and includes an optimal scheduling algorithm for each stage.
The model has been validated by simulation. The limitations of the model are discussed. The model is theoretical rather than practical to achieve mathematical tractability. However it gives us predictable upper-bound estimates for the system performance.


The nature of isolated nitrogen-dopants in bulk BaO (N-BaO) and their magnetic interaction have been investigated by means of density functional theory calculations based on hybrid, self-interaction corrected functionals. A thermodynamic analysis shows that N is preferably incorporated into interstitial sites. Only at very high temperatures and under oxygen poor-conditions the formation of N dopants substitutional to O is preferred. The spin density is rather localized in both cases, as proven by the calculation of the hyperfine coupling constants of the electron spin with the nuclear spin of nitrogen. The magnetic interaction of two N defects in various configurations has been considered as a function of their distance. Different behaviors have been observed, depending on the position of the N defects and on the nature of the dominating magnetic mechanism. In any case, the computed Curie temperature is below room temperature, suggesting that RT ferromagnetism cannot be attained for this kind of doping in BaO. Finally, the interplay of oxygen vacancies with the N dopants has been studied. The inclusion of nitrogen has the effect of drastically reducing the cost to create oxygen vacancies. These in turn quench the magnetic moment of N-dopants, contributing to reducing the concentration of magnetic impurities.


The articles in this issue bring new insights into clinical practice, health care policy, and the role of often hidden cognitive and social processes in shaping care.

Several reports offer important evidence (in the traditional sense of that word) that informs clinical practice. We learn that opportunistic and clinical screening for type 2 diabetes have similarly low macrovascular event rates within the first 10 years after diagnosis1 and that brief clinician training on how to communicate key information to patients about medications improves patient ratings of that communication.2 These articles offer excellent examples of clinically relevant research. One report highlights the softer but potentially high-impact side of medicine—the way people can help each other achieve wellness.2

Policy-relevant articles in this issue address the rapid rise and variability of electronic health record adoption among family physicians3; the social, psychological, medical, financial, and legal disruptions from high out-of-pocket health expenses among midlife and older adults4; variability in informed decision making around prostate cancer screening attributable to physicians' beliefs about screening and concerns about medicolegal risk5; factors associated with physician assistants entering primary care6; and the complementary role of practice facilitators and care managers in furthering primary care redesign.7

In addition to these reports, I want to call your attention to 4 articles that highlight the tension between intuition and evidence, as well as the important but often hidden role that perception and other cognitive, social, and cultural processes play in clinical care.8–11 These 4 articles identify important distinctions between implicit and explicit bias as it relates to topics as diverse as the difference between patients' expectations and epidemiological data on the duration of cough in acute illness8; the high specificity but low sensitivity of primary care clinicians' suspicion of patients' alcohol problems9; the role of "gut feelings," "recognitions," and "insights" in using intuition to complement rational thought in making clinical judgments10; and how clinicians' implicit bias is related to black and Latino patients' perceptions of their care in established clinical relationships.11 Looking critically across these articles can help us to understand both the benefits and the drawbacks that normal cognitive processes play in clinical decision making.

The article by Ebell et al8 shows that patients' perceptions of how long their cough should last after an illness involving acute cough is shorter than what clinical research shows is the average duration of cough. Patients expect 5 to 7 days of cough vs the 17.8-day average duration suggested by the literature—quite a difference, with big implications for appropriate use of care, not to mention after-hours telephone calls. Previous research has found that patients communicate their expectations in ways that subtly influence physicians to prescribe an antibiotic.12 Clinicians can use the discrepancy between patients' expectations and clinical evidence to inform communication with patients. It can help clinicians set reasonable expectations about symptoms and inform treatment decision making, such as the need for antibiotics. Interestingly, patients' perceptions regarding cough duration are explicit. That is, patients are aware of these expectations, making these beliefs amenable to study by self-report methods and presumably accessible to conversation to better match expectation with biomedical reality.

I probably would not have noticed the explicit nature of patient expectations about cough had I not read the article on implicit bias by Blair et al.11 Their study focuses on the role implicit ethnic/racial bias plays in black and Latino patients' perceptions of their care. As Blair et al point out, "Whereas explicit bias is overt and freely expressed, implicit bias may not be consciously acknowledged and operates in more subtle ways."11(p 4 4) Blair et al use a very interesting, though somewhat controversial,13 Implicit Association Test to measure clinicians' implicit biases toward black and Latino patients. One key finding of this study is that clinicians with greater levels of implicit bias are rated lower on key relational attributes (eg, interpersonal treatment, communication, trust) by their black patients, but this relationship did not hold up with Latino patients. Although this study does not establish an association between implicit biases and patient health outcomes, the larger body of literature on this topic does show evidence for this connection (ie, Devine et al14 and Dovidio et al15). Encouragingly, some research in social psychology and education finds that implicit bias is a habit that can be broken. Strategies for reducing prejudice related to implicit bias include raising awareness, taking the perspective of members of an out-group, increasing contact between in- and out-group members, obtaining specific information about individuals, and using mindful reflection to unpack assumptions.13,14

The article by Blair shows that some shortcuts which people unconsciously use to make sense of the world and people with whom we interact can be harmful and impair the trust and communication that are key elements of the healing relationship. In contrast, the study by Woolley and Kostopoulou on clinical intuition shows the positive aspects of cognitive processing. They examine patient cases where physicians believed they had experienced an intuition—where physicians were unaware of the basis of their judgment or believed the source of their judgment was irrational or unsubstantiated. Woolley and Kostopoulou discover 3 types of decision processes at work: gut feelings, insights, and recognitions.

I encourage you to read the case examples in the online supplemental appendix to the Woolley and Kostopoulou article, as these cases show how physicians use cues ranging from unusual symptoms (excessive bleeding) to bodily based behaviors (ie, holding one's head in hand to show pain), olfactory cues (ie, the smell of alcohol on a patient), interactional cues (ie, patient protested strongly to excessive alcohol consumption), and inform diagnoses. In addition, these intuition events share another characteristic: there is dissonance between the clinical evidence and some other cue(s) physicians are processing. For example, in the case where the physician suspects the patient has an alcohol consumption problem, the physician recalls possibly smelling alcohol on the patient and remembers the patient protesting strongly to an alcohol problem during screening. The physician does a blood test that confirms a high blood alcohol level.

This article and the one by Blair et al resonate with philosopher Michael Polanyi's 1974 book, Personal Knowledge.16 Tacit knowing, according to Polanyi, is the knowledge people possess that they cannot express. This way of knowing tends to be so ingrained that we take it for granted. Clinicians often are not aware when this knowledge is brought into play in clinical practice, but as Woolley and Kostopoulou show, it can be helpful, perhaps because it complements more explicit knowledge. Braude17 shows the relevance of Polanyi's work to clinical intuition and evidence-based medicine. He argues that the evidence-based medicine model is limited because it gives too much weight to clinical evidence and thereby devalues the tacit knowledge that Woolley and Kostopoulou identify as intuition. Braude makes the case that human sensing and the tacit ways of knowing which occur "when a physician who is explicitly listening to a patient's story, is simultaneously aware, but in a qualitatively different way, of the patient's tone of voice, facial expression and choice of words…"17(p 175) are critical for clinical reasoning. Evidence-based medicine does not preclude but requires clinical intuition and tacit knowledge for its most effective implementation.

The study by Vinson et al9 does not delve directly into the cognitive processes that lead a clinician to be concerned about patients' excessive use of alcohol, but it examines the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of clinicians' instincts as compared with screening instruments. This study shows that physicians are quite good at identifying patients who do not have an alcohol problem, and when physicians are concerned that a patient has a hazardous drinking pattern, they usually are right. This may be because, in most such cases, they usually discuss this concern with the patient. On the other hand, physician intuition has poor sensitivity compared with validated screening tools; clinicians miss most (more than 70%) of the patients with a potential alcohol problem. The take-home point from this report: take steps to build alcohol screening into routine primary care practice so that a regular process can complement intuition.

The articles in this issue highlight some of the normal cognitive strategies of which clinicians may not be aware. Together, these articles show both the positive and negative aspects of these cognitive processes and the ways heuristic devices influence clinicians' ways of knowing patients and making medical decisions. Awareness allows clinicians to implement strategies to control negative biases and to make the most of helpful hunches. The research in this issue shows the delicate balance of human sensing, intuition, clinical reasoning, evidence, and policy that propel family medicine.

We welcome your reflections on all articles at http://www.annfammed.org.


A new method to evaluate design candidates in adaptable design of vertical grinding machines considering static and dynamic performances is introduced. According to adaptable design principles, the comprehensive evaluation method of dynamic and static performance was used to evaluate the value of structural change and performance improvement. Taking the redesign of vertical grinding machine for example, some design candidates were provided for its weak parts. Based on the evaluation method, the data on design candidates, which was derived from the static and dynamic analysis, was accurately analyzed and the design candidates were accurately and rapidly evaluated. Finally, the best configuration was selected.


Rationale: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) incidence in Ivory Coast is the highest in West Africa, yet factors associated with high-risk sexual behaviors are not well understood. In this study, we report predictors that are dependently and independently associated with high-risk sexual behaviors among Ivory Coast unmarried women aged 15-49 using Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data.
Methods: This study used DHS data conducted in 2012 in Ivory Coast. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with high-risk sexual behaviors among unmarried women. High-risk sexual behaviors examined were non-use of condoms during sexual intercourse and having multiple sexual partners.
Results: A total of 10,060 women aged 15-49 participated in the survey. Of these, 3607 (36%) were single women. Among factors independently associated with non-use of a condom during sexual intercourse were: the use of contraceptives aOR=2.95, 95% CI (2.35-3.70, p<0.0001, living in a poor household aOR=1.71, 95% CI (1.09-2.69, p=0.019), and older age groups: 25-34, aOR=1.44, 95% CI (1.12-1.86, p=0.005), and 35-49, aOR=1.96, 95% CI (1.37-2.81, p<0.0001) compared to the 15-24 age group. Conversely, secondary and higher education aOR=0.65, 95% CI (0.48-0.90, p=0.008) and being exposed to the radio aOR=0.68, 95% CI (0.52-0.90, p=0.008), were independent protective determinants. In addition, independent risk factors contributing to having multiple sexual partners included: animist religion aOR=1.88, 95% CI (1.04-3.36, p=0.034), TV exposure aOR=2.31, 95% CI (1.17-4.55, p=0.015), geographical location: Abidjan aOR=2.02, 95% CI (1.16-3.56, p=0.014), South aOR=2.54, 95% CI (1.41-4.61, p=0.002), West aOR=2.19, 95% CI (1.19-1.02, p=0.011) and a higher education level aOR=2.26, 95% CI (1.25-4.06, p=0.007).
Conclusion: Social, regional, economic and institutional factors influence the highrisk sexual behaviors among unmarried women in Ivory Coast. Health education programs should develop a holistic outreach programs that target the social ecological model of determinants of sexual health in Ivory Coast.


Abstract. Detailed and accurate vertical distributions of cloud properties (such as cloud fraction, cloud phase, and cloud water content) and their changes are essential to accurately calculate the surface radiative flux and to depict the mean climate state. Surface and space-based active sensors including radar and lidar are ideal to provide this information because of their superior capability to detect clouds and retrieve cloud microphysical properties. In this study, we compare the annual cycles of cloud property vertical distributions from space-based active sensors and surface-based active sensors at two Arctic atmospheric observatories, Barrow and Eureka. Based on the comparisons, we identify the sensors' respective strengths and limitations, and develop a blended cloud property vertical distribution by combining both sets of observations. Results show that surface-based observations offer a more complete cloud property vertical distribution from the surface up to 11 km above mean sea level (a.m.s.l.) with limitations in the middle and high altitudes; the annual mean total cloud fraction from space-based observations shows 25–40 % fewer clouds below 0.5 km than from surface-based observations, and space-based observations also show much fewer ice clouds and mixed-phase clouds, and slightly more liquid clouds, from the surface to 1 km. In general, space-based observations show comparable cloud fractions between 1 and 2 km a.m.s.l., and larger cloud fractions above 2 km a.m.s.l. than from surface-based observations. A blended product combines the strengths of both products to provide a more reliable annual cycle of cloud property vertical distributions from the surface to 11 km a.m.s.l. This information can be valuable for deriving an accurate surface radiative budget in the Arctic and for cloud parameterization evaluation in weather and climate models. Cloud annual cycles show similar evolutions in total cloud fraction and ice cloud fraction, and lower liquid-containing cloud fraction at Eureka than at Barrow; the differences can be attributed to the generally colder and drier conditions at Eureka relative to Barrow.


This paper aims to study the technological conditions and adsorption mechanism of the rare-earth ammonia-nitrogen wastewater adsorption by unmodified water granulated slag and modified water granulated slag. The results showed that the optimum adsorption reaction time is around 60min for both of unmodified and modified slag; the optimum dosage of unmodified slag is 0.015g/mL, whereas it is 0.01g/mL for modified slag, correspondingly, the removal rate of ammonia-nitrogen could attain to (59.9±2.49) % and (79.24±1.21) % associated with unmodified slag and modified slag respectively. The ammonia-nitrogen removing process conducted by unmodified water granulated slag fits the Freundlich adsorption isothermal equation, conforming to physical adsorption. By contrast, the ammonia-nitrogen removing process accomplished by modified water granulated slag fits the Temkin adsorption isothermal equation and this process should be chemical adsorption.


Starting from the examination of the classical and most recent mentions of the city of Opis (mainly, Xenophon), the Author tries to connect them to the most ancient records from Mesopotamia (III millennium B.C.) on the above mentioned city and also on some neighbouring cities, like Aksak, Gizuna and Baz. The aim of the present paper is to show that the clues at our disposal point to a location of these cities (and especially of Opis) in the Diyala region. The Author bases his analysis, which has specifically a geographic character, on some of the most important studies in this field (for example the works of McC. Adams, Frayne or Manfredi).


AbstractThe purpose of this research project is to explore the information available about the use of music therapy methods and techniques when working with children (0-6) who have physical disabilities, particularly in a Conductive Education setting. This is qualitative exploratory theoretical research. The data analysis strategy used is triangulation, which involves three sources of data. Thematic analysis of data was of nine pieces of literature, eight video transcriptions, and three meeting notes and three clinical supervision notes. From the analysis, four core themes were generated: 1) familiar songs, 2) following children, 3) repeated musical structure, 4) and musical cueing. Within the core themes, two music therapy methods, improvisation and re-creation, and many music therapy techniques overlap and interweave.
Findings show a development of theory for this population that music therapists can naturally use improvisation and re-creative music therapy methods. They can use familiar songs, designing structured and repeated interactions in the music activities, following children in the moment to respond to them musically, and using musical elements to provide cueing and support. The four core themes identified in this research indicate the areas which can help children to participate in activities and improve their motor skills.


With its archetypal open plan and reverence of indoor-outdoor living, the Ranch house is at the very heart of the California dream. When we picture California Ranch houses--the low-slung, informal dwellings that engulfed suburbs after World War II--we are thinking of just one part of a phenomenon that has its roots in early-nineteenth-century ranchos, and which continues today in houses that are startling and up-to-the-minute. Examples of the type have been called ranchos, ranchers, and California ramblers. They have been styled Spanish, Japanese, and French; Monterey and International; Vernacular, Minimalist, and Modernist. From the 1797 Rancho Los Alamitos of Long Beach to such contemporary homes as the Miller Residence of Corte Madera, Ranch Houses unveils the great variety and the very finest examples of this multifaceted form. Including the work of such architectural luminaries as Cliff May, Richard Neutra, John Lautner, and Charles Moore, Ranch Houses is an essential resource for architects, home owners, and all those who aspire to the indoor/outdoor lifestyle that is the California Dream.


Metallurgical quality of roll casting sheet is crucial to ensure the performance of aluminum foil. An electromagnetic purification system was installed in a twin roll casting line in order to improve the molten metal cleanliness. Metallographic analysis shows that inclusion particles larger than 10 μm can be eliminated from molten aluminum by electromagnetic purification and a total inclusion removal efficiency of 75% is achieved additional to the filtration by a ceramic foam filter. The electromagnetic purification system operated reliably and consistently during the casting campaign.


We consider motion of an underdamped Brownian particle in a washboard potential that is subjected to an unbiased time-periodic external field. While in the limiting deterministic system in dependence of the strength and phase of the external field directed net motion can exist; for a finite temperature the net motion averages to zero. Strikingly, with the application of an additional time-delayed feedback term directed particle motion can be accomplished persisting up to fairly high levels of the thermal noise. In detail, there exist values of the feedback strength and delay time for which the feedback term performs oscillations that are phase locked to the time-periodic external field. This yields an effective biasing rocking force promoting periods of forward and backward motion of distinct duration, and thus directed motion. In terms of phase space dynamics we demonstrate that with applied feedback desymmetrization of coexisting attractors takes place leaving the ones supporting either positive or negative velocities as the only surviving ones. Moreover, we found parameter ranges for which in the presence of thermal noise the directed transport is enhanced compared to the noiseless case.


Vibration-sensitive equipment within buildings may be susceptible to damage from harsh floor motions transmitted from the primary structure due to strong ground motions. Isolation devices are capable protecting fragile equipment from seismic hazards by decoupling individual pieces of equipment or entire floor slabs. A practical limitation associated with equipment isolation is that these systems have limited displacement capacity, which if exceeded lead to impacts degrading performance. However, even the most effective isolation systems are incapable of protecting equipment from building collapse. This study investigates the use of floor isolation systems (FISs) as multi-functional structural units to mitigate both equipment accelerations and structure responses to achieve desired building-system performance. These multi-functional FISs not only serve their traditional purpose (equipment isolation), but they are also engaged to protect the primary structure under extreme earthquake loads by passively adapting to function as nonlinear dynamic vibration absorbers. In so doing, this concept bridges the gap between equipment isolation and vibration absorption, yielding a novel adaptive passive seismic protective technique. Simulation results indicate that multi-functional FIS can reduce equipment accelerations for small to moderate earthquakes, as well as deflections (drifts) of the primary building over a range of disturbance intensities. Overall, multi-functional FISs are shown to enhance building-system resilience over a broad range of seismic hazard levels.


The nucleation and growth mechanisms of graphene on Rh(111) via temperature-programmed growth of C(2)H(4) are studied by scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy, and by density functional theory calculations. By combining our experimental and first-principles approaches, we show that carbon nanoislands form in the initial stages of graphene growth, possessing an exclusive size of seven honeycomb carbon units (hereafter labeled as 7C(6)). These clusters adopt a domelike hexagonal shape indicating that bonding to the substrate is localized on the peripheral C atoms. Smoluchowski ripening is identified as the dominant mechanism leading to the formation of graphene, with the size-selective carbon islands as precursors. Control experiments and calculations, whereby coronene molecules, the hydrogenated analogues of 7C(6), are deposited on Rh(111), provide an unambiguous structural and chemical identification of the 7C(6) building blocks.


In this lecture, I address the remedies available to an injured party who seeks redress for injury arising from the unauthorized use of his property by another, for example from patent infringement. Broadly speaking, the injured party is entitled to damages or an injunction. One requirement for receiving an injunction is a showing of irreparable harm. However, in the context of commercial business disputes, is harm ever irreparable? Based on economic interpretations of "irreparable harm" and the economic framework for measuring damages, I conclude that a private party's injury from infringement of a property right will generally not be irreparable. The justification for issuing an injunction may instead lie in the courts' reluctance to order damages exceeding the infringer's valuation of the misappropriated property.


The neonatal murine heart has been shown to retain a capacity for regeneration following injury until 7 days after birth, after which injury is followed by scar formation (Porello et al ., 2011). However normal physiology and growth characteristics of the heart are poorly defined during this neonatal period. The present study aimed to characterise changes in structure and function of the myocardium during early post-natal growth. Isofluorane anaesthetised mice underwent investigation by 'b mode' and Doppler high resolution ultrasound (Visualsonics Vevo 770) at E18.5, 2 days, 4 days, 8 days, 3 weeks and 6 weeks after birth (n = 5–6 per time-point). ECG and temperature were measured throughout assessment. Hearts were then collected, weighed before fixation and paraffin embedding for wheat-germ agglutinin (WGA) and isolectin B4 staining formeasurement of cardiomyocyte cross sectional area (CM-CSA) and blood vessel density. Left ventricular (LV) wall thickness increased from 440 ± 28 mm to 563 ± 16 mm between 2 and 8 post-partum, without a significant increase in CM-CSA, consistent with a phase of CM hyperplasia, rather than hypertrophy. In contrast, the rate of increase in CM-CSA was significantly greater from 8 days after birth, although not accompanied by a further increase in wall thickness until 3 weeks post-partum, consistent with rearrangement of cardiomyocytes to contribute to increased LV end-diastolic and end-systolic area. Throughout this period function, defined by ejection fraction and by myocardial performance index, remained largely stable. The period between 2 and 8 days after birth was also characterised by a reversal in the ratio of E and A waves in the mitral valve Doppler trace from a foetal-like pattern (0.72 ± 0.07) to an adult-like one (1.28 ± 0.04), consistent with maturation of LV filling. Isolectin B4 staining revealed the presence of large diameter vessels at birth, which reduced in size and became more organised towards 6 weeks post-partum. These data provide the first ultrasound characterisation of myocardial structure function during early post-natal growth. They reveal a pattern of myocardial growth that is consistent with a shift from reliance on proliferation early after birth to hypertrophy and realignment of myocytes from 8 days post-partum. This work is supported by a BHF 4 year PhD studentship to RC and by a BHF Centre of Research Excellence Award. Reference Porrello ER, et al. Transient regenerative potential of the neonatal mouse heart. Science. 2011;331:1078–1080


This paper summarizes recent developments in foam forming that were mainly carried out in pilot scale. In addition to improving the efficiency of existing processes and allowing better uniformity in material, a wide variety of raw materials can be utilized in foam forming. The focus of this paper is thin webs—papers, boards and foam-laid nonwovens, along with the pilot scale results obtained at VTT in Finland. For paper and board grades, the most direct advantage of foam forming is the potential to produce very uniform webs from longer and coarser fibers and obtain material savings through that. Another main point is increased solids content after a wet press, which may lead to significant energy savings in thermal drying. Finally, the potential to introduce "difficult" raw materials like long synthetic or manmade fibers into a papermaking process enables the manufacturing of novel products in an existing production line. This paper also briefly discusses other interesting foam-based applications, including insulation and absorbing materials, foam-laid nonwovens, and materials for replacing plastics.


One of the most important systems of an aircraft jet engine is exhaust gas temperature measurement system that ensure right function of the engine. Temperature of the gas flowing from the engine turbine is quite high. There is one way, how to measure high temperature and it is by thermocouple. So the main aim of the paper is to describe creation and correct function analysis of a thermocouple simulator. Thermocouple generates very low voltage depending on a temperature that ranges from units micro-volts to several tens of millivolts. Generating of such low voltage using simulator is not easy, because this voltage may move at levels of noise. Voltage generation is performed by digital-analogue converter, which is controlled by a microcontroller via SPI bus. The generated voltage is further reduced to a level corresponding to the voltage output of the thermocouple. Several calibration waveforms are performed belonging to appropriate thermocouple type for multifunctional use. Only positive temperatures are generated, because exhaust gas temperature measurement system is aimed at high temperatures. The power supply circuit offers two options. It is supply from accumulator for its portability or from the laboratory power supply. Surface mounted devices are selected in terms of module miniaturization. The newest device base is chosen for modern design of the module. The temperature waveform is generated by the way of polynomial approximation with correction. Dependence of real generated voltage on the voltage, which is defined by appropriate thermocouple type standard and errors evaluation, is used as a proof of proper function.


The photobleaching of methylene blue with reducing in 50% aqueous methanol using acetate buffer has been investigated with steady-illumination of monochromatic radiations of 661 mm on specially designed optical bench in a dark room. The dye reduction processes were studied at various parameters i) concentrations of dye, ii) concentrations of reductants such as Galactose, D-Mannose, D-(+)-Ribose, Maltose and Lactose, iii) acidity (Ho) of reaction solution iv) temperature as a function of quantum yield (0). Hammett acidity function (Ho) was used to determine acidity of the reaction solution. The optical method was adopted to evaluate the values of Ho.

Bleaching of the dye simultaneously with demethylation has been observed upon irradiation, color recover as the source of irradiation turned off or exposure to air. Reaction follows second order kinetics with respect to dye concentration and reductant and first order with respect to triplet transient with life time of 10.1 us.

A general mechanism has been proposed. Mathematical expressions were established and rations of rate constants were determined from experimental evidences. The tests were put forward to justify the mechanism. The mechanism was also supported by analysis of reaction mixture by TLC and column chromatic graphic techniques. Visible, Infra red and Mass spectrum of isolated product of the triplet transient showed the high reactivity of the dye triplet species towards different reagents present in the mixture

The values of ratios of rate constant appearing in general mechanism were verified and it was found that quantum yield was the consequence of triplet


Contrary to traditional neoclassical growth models, recent decades have seen a number of developing economies running sizable current account surpluses. In response to "new mercantilist" explanations of this phenomenon that relate holdings of foreign assets to higher levels of economic growth, this paper presents a theoretical model of a small open developing economy that permits a welfare analysis of mercantilist policies and importantly answers the question of whether mercantilist motives alone can explain the recent high levels of observed foreign asset holdings. Using a calibration to match the characteristics of China, the model predicts that while such policies may lead to significant welfare gains, consumers' desires to smooth consumption generally preclude a positive current account balance under most parameterizations. Therefore, deliberate foreign asset accumulation may be welfare reducing or mercantilist motives may provide only one component of a fuller explanation.


The equilibrium geometrical structures of Cs"and OCs"clusters have been obtained by a method that, in the framework of density-functional theory, describes the ion-electron interaction by means of a pseudopotential that is spherically averaged about the cluster center. In the size range studied (up to n =78 and 70, respectively) the clusters present well-separated atomic layers for which the distances to the two closest neighbors of each atom have been analyzed, showing that there is an inhomogeneous shrinking of the geometrical structure, in the sense that the distances obtained for atoms in the inner layers are lower than those for the outer ones. The analysis of the growing of the clusters suggests that the equilibrium geometries are those for which any atom of the aggregate has its closest neighbor at a distance lower than the nearest-neighbor distance of the pure bulk metal. For small (n ~ 20) pure clusters, geometries of high symmetry have been found, which are completely modified by the presence of the oxygen impurity. A regular octahedron is formed around the oxygen atom in most cases.


: A series of 159 patients with carcinoma of the tonsil was treated by radiotherapy from Jan. 1970 to Dec. 1980. The overall 5, 10 and 15 year survival rates were 45.3% (72/159), 30.8% (32/104) and 34.8% (8/23). The 5 year survival rate was 62.5% (10/16), 68.9% (31/45), 39.0% (16/41) and 22.8% (12/57) for stages I, II, III and IV. There was no significance difference in the 5 year survival rates between undifferentiated (38/86, 44.2%) and squamous cell carcinomas (34/70, 48.6%). The majority of these patients received a dose of 50-70 Gy/6-8 weeks. Clinical stage and metastatic lymph node's size are the main factors influencing prognosis. The chief causes of failure: recurrence and distant metastasis totaled 73.2%, of which 11.3% metastasized into the abdomen. The authors believe that a large anterior tangential portal with a high upper margin is necessary to include the big metastasis in the subgastric lymph nodes on the homolateral neck region.


A test system for detection of inhibitors to the enzyme which removes the glutamic acid peptide chain from folate polyglutamates (folate conjugase) is described. This utilizes the reaction between plasma conjugase and the folate polyglutamate in red blood cell haemolysate. Diphenylhydantoin and yeast extracts did not inhibit plasma conjugase. The better absorption of monoglutamate forms of folate as compared to polyglutamate forms was confirmed. Polyglutamates were absorbed normally by patients with pernicious anaemia, suggesting that conjugase enzymes (optimally active at pH 4·5) did not normally function to a significant extent in the gut lumen. Diphenylhydantoin and bicarbonate did not interfere with absorption of either mono- or polyglutamate forms of folate.


Percutaneous gastrostomies, placed endoscopically or radiographically, have supplanted their surgical counterparts in many institutions. Although there are few comparative data, a cost advantage is claimed for the radiographic method, as no endoscopy is required. We performed upper endoscopy on 201 patients prior to attempted percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). The medical records of these patients were reviewed. Data collected included endoscopic findings which precluded gastrostomy, necessitated conversion to jejunostomy, or led to changes in medical management. For a total of 73 patients (36%), findings at pregastrostomy endoscopy led to major changes in medical management, including 35 patients with severe reflux esophagitis, 29 patients with peptic ulcers, and two patients with gastric outlet obstruction. Appropriate treatment of such conditions may improve morbidity, mortality, and cost by reducing length of hospital stay. The authors recommend diagnostic upper endoscopy in patients undergoing percutaneous gastrostomy, regardless of placement method.


Serum from 30 young alligators was examined by free boundary, starch block, and cellulose acetate strip electrophoresis. The patterns obtained showed that the alligator serum proteins differ significantly from those of other chordates in that an α-globulin is the major component. The average ratio of α-globulin to albumin in the serum is 3.4. In this respect it resembles serum of human beings with renal disease in which the α-globulin ratio to albumin ratio reaches 3.0.


Many techniques have been described to improve facial scars. In this review we address nonoperative strategies to manage facial scarring. Scar characteristics and anatomic location are discussed. The following nonoperative techniques are comprehensively examined: pulsed dye laser (PDL), subcision, fat transplantation, collagen injection, dermabrasion, steroid injection, and fillers. The PDL is advocated to flatten and decrease the volume of hypertrophic scars while improving texture and pliability. Dermabrasion is used to blend acne scars into the surrounding facial skin by subtly improving their contour. Fat transplantation, collagen, and filler injection is recommended in the treatment of acne depressed scars and traumatic scars with resulting contour deformity.


The vertebrate head has undergone enormous modification from the features borne by early ancestors. The growth of skull bones has been well studied in many species, yet little is known about corresponding soft tissue development. Among mammals, some of the most unusual examples of cranial evolution exist in the toothed whales (odontocetes). Specialized fat bodies in toothed whale heads play important roles in sound transmission and reception. These fat bodies contain unique endogenous lipids, with favourable acoustic properties, arranged in highly organized, three-dimensional patterns. We link variation in developmental rates of acoustic fats with life-history strategy, using bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises. Porpoise acoustic fats attain adult configurations earlier (less than 1 year) and at a faster pace than dolphins. The accelerated lipid accumulation in porpoises reflects the earlier need for fully functional echolocation systems. Dolphins enjoy 3–6 years of maternal care; porpoises must achieve total independence by approximately nine months. Further, a stereotypic 'blueprint' for the spatial distribution of lipids is established prior to birth, demonstrating the highly conserved nature of the intricate biochemical arrangement in acoustic tissues. This system illustrates an unusual case of soft tissue development being constrained by life history, rather than the more commonly observed mechanistic or phyletic constraints.


We report the discovery of a planetary-mass companion, HD 106906 b, with the new Magellan Adaptive Optics (MagAO) + Clio2 system. The companion is detected with Clio2 in three bands: J, KS, and L′, and lies at a projected separation of 7.″1 (650 AU). It is confirmed to be comoving with its 13 ± 2 Myr F5 host using Hubble Space Telescope Advanced Camera for Surveys astrometry over a time baseline of 8.3 yr. DUSTY and COND evolutionary models predict that the companion's luminosity corresponds to a mass of 11 ± 2 MJup, making it one of the most widely separated planetary-mass companions known. We classify its Magellan/Folded-Port InfraRed Echellette J/H/K spectrum as L2.5 ± 1; the triangular H-band morphology suggests an intermediate surface gravity. HD 106906 A, a pre-main-sequence Lower Centaurus Crux member, was initially targeted because it hosts a massive debris disk detected via infrared excess emission in unresolved Spitzer imaging and spectroscopy. The disk emission is best fit by a single component at 95 K, corresponding to an inner edge of 15–20 AU and an outer edge of up to 120 AU. If the companion is on an eccentric (e > 0.65) orbit, it could be interacting with the outer edge of the disk. Close-in, planet-like formation followed by scattering to the current location would likely disrupt the disk and is disfavored. Furthermore, we find no additional companions, though we could detect similar-mass objects at projected separations >35 AU. In situ formation in a binary-star-like process is more probable, although the companion-to-primary mass ratio, at <1%, is unusually small.


-Guideliines for the selection and placement of decou- pling capacitors that work well for one-sided or two-sided printed circuit boards are not appropriate for multilayer boards with power and ground planes. Boards without internal planes take advantage of the power bus inductance to help decouple compo- nents at the higher frequencies. An effective decoupling strategy for multilayer boards must account for the low inductance and relatively high capacitance of the power bus.


The paper describes a simulation model that evaluates the effect of connecting wind energy generators to the electric supply system and particularly to distribution networks. It includes energy production and failure/repair events and has been integrated into a simulation programme developed to assess reliability and energy production of composite systems. A set of wind generation indices describing wind energy production and the limitations that the transmission system imposes upon it are discussed. The model is based on stochastic simulation techniques. The analysis of composite systems containing wind generation is illustrated with an application example.


During practice, a 25-year-old Division II men's basketball player reported lightheadedness, blurry vision, and that his heart was "racing". After his heart rate was recorded above 240 bpm on two occasions, the athlete was referred for further evaluation. An electrophysiologist diagnosed the patient with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). The condition was corrected using a catheter radiofrequency ablation and the athlete returned to play 5 weeks after his first presentation of signs and symptoms. The referral, diagnostic, treatment, and return-to-play processes demonstrated in this case represent the successful use of interprofessional practice to manage an athlete with SVT.


This article follows a circular path. Its starting point is the well-preserved family archive of more than a hundred letters written by Sr. Conradina to her family back home in Slovenia from her assigned mission in India. It then journeys through layers of historical context important for understanding the qualitative methodological approaches, reflecting on various aspects relevant to the analysis of the letters (material aspects, questions of comprehension, content issues, the ethnographic context, etc.). Finally, it reaches – or rather comes back to – the source, the missionary herself, writing letters from India to Slovenia from within the framework of different hierarchies, discourses and relationships.


Large scale penetration of digital technologies led them to join roads, electricity, and water distribution, as essential infrastructures of modernity. "Digital convergence" refers to these technologies' wide ranging effects on people's lives, work, and interactions. Yet conceptions from diverse fields reveal no universally accepted understanding of this term. An examination of historical developments leading up to the Internet era reveals mutual dependence between technical infrastructures and diverse social arrangements including industry, regulatory, and market structures. A set of criteria for the definition of digital convergence (and divergence) is formulated. These provide a working definition that reveals the essential, pervasive and interactive reconfiguration of modern society's technical and social infrastructures due to digitization. A layer-based model is presented as one possible way of breaking up an increasingly interconnected socio-technical world into separate domains that allow meaningful study. We call for action to address the paucity of recent Information Systems (IS) research into the infrastructures that provide the foundations upon which all modern information systems build.


The newly formed giant planets may have migrated and crossed a number of mutual mean motion resonances (MMRs) when smaller objects (embryos) were accreting to form the terrestrial planets in the planetesimal disk. We investigated the effects of the planetesimal-driven migration of Jupiter and Saturn, and the influence of their mutual 1:2 MMR crossing on terrestrial planet formation for the first time, by performing N-body simulations. These simulations considered distinct timescales of MMR crossing and planet migration. In total, 68 high-resolution simulation runs using 2000 disk planetesimals were performed, which was a significant improvement on previously published results. Even when the effects of the 1:2 MMR crossing and planet migration were included in the system, Venus and Earth analogs (considering both orbits and masses) successfully formed in several runs. In addition, we found that the orbits of planetesimals beyond a ∼ 1.5–2 AU were dynamically depleted by the strengthened sweeping secular resonances associated with Jupiter's and Saturn's more eccentric orbits (relative to the present day) during planet migration. However, this depletion did not prevent the formation of massive Mars analogs (planets with more than 1.5 times Mars's mass). Although late MMR crossings (at t > 30 Myr) could remove such planets, Mars-like small mass planets survived on overly excited orbits (high e and/or i), or were completely lost in these systems. We conclude that the orbital migration and crossing of the mutual 1:2 MMR of Jupiter and Saturn are unlikely to provide suitable orbital conditions for the formation of solar system terrestrial planets. This suggests that to explain Mars's small mass and the absence of other planets between Mars and Jupiter, the outer asteroid belt must have suffered a severe depletion due to interactions with Jupiter/Saturn, or by an alternative mechanism (e.g., rogue super-Earths).


SUMMARY Microscopic studies on four Chainia species have revealed that their vegetative mycelia were characterized by a rapid sclerotization resulting in the formation of broad, closely septate sclerotial hyphae measuring I to 3 μm in width. The sclerotia which subsequently formed originated from well-defined sclerotial initials which developed further by growth and division in different planes. A study of the internal structure of the sclerotia by microtomy revealed that they possessed a typical pseudoparenchymatous structure without any internal differentiation into zones. The sclerotia developed in different ways. In Chainia barodensis and C. poonensis, the sclerotial initials were intercalary. In C. ochracea they arose laterally on multi-hyphal strands as is characteristic of many fungi. In Chainia 33br the sclerotial initials were both intercalary and lateral. In C. poonensis, C. ochracea and Chainia 33br the substrate growth sometimes formed a stroma-like crust with sclerotia anchored to or embedded in it. Scanning electron microscopy of sclerotia of C. barodensis showed that these structures possessed a characteristic surface architecture. The actinomycete sclerotium is not a simple hyphal aggregation but a definitive morphological entity with characteristic modes of development.


Introduction of temporality - limited duration, movement, change - fundamentally changes the way a work of art functions: permanence, constancy, 'eternity' are no longer its implicit features; a work of art is not necessarily an object, but also a certain activity, process, experience. A work of art takes over the logic of fluids: its material component, such as shape, size, format, has become variable, while the method of functioning has become fluid. This change cannot be observed independently of the technical reproduction, primarily of film, which for the first time introduces movement in the once static, unchanging image. Temporality spreads through film and moving images in other areas of visual research as well, the effect of which is appearance of a number of new artistic practices: early in the 20th century, within avantgarde, through neo-avant-garde phenomena to the contemporary art in which such a way of functioning becomes dominant.


A $350,000,000 crop from vacant lot and home gardens is the way the people of the United States responded to the call of the national emergency food garden commission for food, according to the nation-wide survey announcement by Charles Lathrop Pack, the president. There are more than three times as many gardens in the Tnited States this summer as compared with a year ago, the estimated gain being 222 per cent. This increase represents a gain of 1,175,000 acres, according to the best figures available. Middle western states lead all other sections with an average increase in the 'ftoumber of gardens of 295 per cent. New England is second with a gain of 275 per cent. The eastern states show an increase of 250 per cent., while the south Atlantic group show 235 per cerit., south central states increased the number of gardens 2(tO per cent. Five points separate the lake states and the Pacific coast states, the former showi-ng an increase of ] 90 per cent. and the others 185 per cent. The Rocky Mountain states make a great showing, with an increase of 125 per cent. The increase varies with each particular section of the country. as South Dakota stands high with a gain of 7:l5 per cent., while Nevada is last with twenty-five per cent., which, of course, is a fine showing for a mountain state. This report is based upon figures obtained by field ag-ents. who traveled in many parts of the country. from reports received from newspapers which co -operated in the garden-planting campaign And from a letter canvass of municipal officials and civic organizations of every kind. Xlore than ]:),Il(l(j engaged in war gardening in Oklahoma City and the food gardens were increased more than 500 per cent. The Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club, with the fine co-operation of the newspapers. handled the campaign. The campaign in Oklahoma City was started before the emergency commission was organized. An expert gardener was employed to superintend the work.


Venus nightside emission measurements of VIRTIS on Venus Express provide the opportunity of surface studies
in the narrow near infrared atmospheric windows. The measurements as well as detailed new radiative transfer
simulations show that radiance ratios in the emission windows between 1.0 and 1.35 micron with respect to the 1.02 micron
window can be used to extract information about the surface elevation and temperature. Based on these analyses,
first surface and near surface anomalies are identified on the Northern hemisphere of Venus, which are due to
deviations of the elevation - temperature correlation in certain small areas.
The data are selected from VIRTIS-M-IR nightside measurements. To ensure minimal atmospheric influence on
the measured signatures, only pushbroom observations with small observation angles close to nadir are taken into
account. The radiative transfer simulation technique considers absorption, emission, and multiple scattering by
gaseous and particulate constituents of the atmosphere. Look-up tables of quasi-monochromatic gas absorption
cross-sections are calculated using appropriate spectral line data bases and line profiles and a line-by-line procedure.
Empirical continuum absorption coefficients are determined from a 'VIRTIS reference spectrum'. In order to
derive the parameters of the H2SO4 clouds, Mie theory is applied. Multiple scattering is considered by a Successive
Order procedure. The synthetic quasi-monochromatic intensity spectra at the model top level of the atmosphere
are convolved with the VIRTIS spectral response function.
The surface windows at 1.02, 1.10 and 1.18 micron exhibit a clear dependence of transmitted radiation on topographical
features and, thus, on surface thermal emission, since an elevation change of 12 km results in a temperature
change of 100 K. In the first approximation, the radiance ratios are affine linear functions of the surface temperature.
This is demonstrated by both measurements and simulations. In general, the ratio-based VIRTIS topography
correlates well with the Magellan topography, but differences occur in localized areas.
Different local surface anomalies do exist. These anomalies are probably a result of the lower atmosphere dynamics,
errors in Magellan elevation determinations, or variations in the surface emissivity. Surface emissivity
variations are important indicators of the nature of surface material. They may be due to variations in mineralogy
and surface texture. While most of Venus' geologic units are thought to be basaltic in composition, some of them
(tessera terrains) could be felsic. The 1 micron emissivity of felsic materials is lower compared to basalts at similar
texture conditions. Nevertheless, we found that anomalous areas comprise practically the same geologic units as
adjacent non-anomalous terrains.
The surface texture (grain size, packing density, surface roughness) is another important factor for emissivity
anomalies. Grain size affects the spectral characteristics. Laboratory measurements of basalts and oxidized basalts
show significant changes in the contrast of the 1 micron reflectivity band. Although most of the surface of Venus is
not very rough, roughness variations exist. Tesserae and rifts show a higher surface roughness compared to other
areas.
Finally, the Magellan radar data that represent the base of the topography information of the Venus surface result
from a surface layer of about 1 m in thickness, whereas the VIRTIS-NIR data describe the optical upper surface
layer only.
The radiative transfer simulations show the capability of our algorithm to investigate the surface of Venus. Based on
these simulations and the VIRTIS/VEX measurements, the extracted anomalies are discussed in the framework of
these processes and influences mentioned above. Future improvements will contribute to eliminate the masking of
the Venus nightside windows by far wing and pressure-induced absorptions of the deep atmosphere constituents.
This will allow a better separation of deep atmosphere, temperature, and emissivity contributions to the Venus
nightside emission.


The phytochrome (phy)-PIF (Phytochrome Interacting Factor) sensory module perceives and transduces light signals to Direct-Target Genes (DTGs), which then drive the adaptational responses in plant growth and development, appropriate to the prevailing environment. These signals include the first exposure of etiolated seedlings to sunlight upon emergence from subterranean darkness, and the change in color of the light that is filtered through, or reflected from, neighboring vegetation ('shade'). Previously, we identified three broad categories of rapidly signal-responsive genes: those repressed by light and conversely induced by shade; those repressed by light, but subsequently unresponsive to shade; and those responsive to shade only. Here, we investigate the potential role of epigenetic chromatin modifications in regulating these contrasting patterns of phy-PIF module-induced expression of DTGs. Using RNA-seq and ChlP-seq, time-resolved profiling of transcript and histone 3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) levels, respectively, we show that, whereas the initial dark-to-light transition triggers a rapid, apparently temporally-coincident decline of both parameters, the light-to-shade transition induces similarly rapid increases in transcript levels that precede increases in H3K4me3 levels. Together with other recent findings, these data raise the possibility that, rather than being causal in the shade-induced expression changes, H3K4me3 may function to buffer the rapidly fluctuating shade/light switching that is intrinsic to vegetational canopies under natural sunlight conditions.


Background: Depletion of global 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) is observed in human cancers and is strongly implicated in skin cancer development. Although arsenic (As)—a class I human carcinogen linked to skin lesion and cancer risk—is known to be associated with changes in global %5-methylcytosine (%5-mC), its influence on 5-hmC has not been widely studied. Methods: We evaluated associations of As in drinking water, urine, and blood with global %5-mC and %5-hmC in two studies of Bangladeshi adults: (i) leukocyte DNA in the Nutritional Influences on Arsenic Toxicity study (n = 196; 49% male, 19–66 years); and (ii) peripheral blood mononuclear cell DNA in the Folate and Oxidative Stress study (n = 375; 49% male, 30–63 years). Results: Overall, As was not associated with global %5-mC or %5-hmC. Sex-specific analyses showed that associations of As exposure with global %5-hmC were positive in males and negative in females (P for interaction < 0.01). Analyses examining interactions by elevated plasma total homocysteine (tHcys), an indicator of B-vitamin deficiency, found that tHcys also modified the association between As and global %5-hmC (P for interaction < 0.10). Conclusion: In two samples, we observed associations between As exposure and global %5-hmC in blood DNA that were modified by sex and tHcys. Impact: Our findings suggest that As induces sex-specific changes in 5-hmC, an epigenetic mark that has been associated with cancer. Future research should explore whether altered %5-hmC is a mechanism underlying the sex-specific influences of As on skin lesion and cancer outcomes. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(11); 1748–57. ©2015 AACR.


This study aimed to provide a generic pedagogical-based approach to reaching out to learners in the new normal. This study sought to answer the performance of the Grade 9 students in Economics before and after the utilization of the Self –Instructional Learning Kit and Mind Mapping Approach. The study was quantitative in nature and uses the descriptive method of research with ninety-two (92) grade 9 students in Emilio V. Quizon National High School San Andres District, Schools Division of Quezon for the school year 2021-2 022.The study revealed that the performance of Grade 9 Students in Economics increased from the pre-test to post-test scores utilizing the Self-Instructional Learning Kit and Mind Mapping Approach. There is a significant relationship between the mean assessment of Self-Instructional Learning Kit and students' performance in Economics. The null hypothesis is rejected, which is significant at the 0.5 level. Self-Instructional Learning Kit and Mind Mapping Approach is a recommendable innovative teaching strategy in the new normal where face-to-face is not possible. This study focused on the effectiveness of the Self-Instructional Learning Kit and Mind Mapping Approach as innovative teaching strategies to improve Grade 9 students' performance in Economics in modular distance learning. Another thing is the respondents' assessment of the structure of the Self-Instructional Learning Kit and The Mind Mapping Approach in the most pressing need to deliver quality instruction to the students. Keywords: Self-Instructional Learning Kit, Ming Mapping Approach, Student Performance


The low-temperature ultrasonic experiments are performed to measure the distribution of vacancy concentration in the ingot of the Czochralski (CZ) silicon crystal grown with the pulling rate gradually lowered. The elastic softening similar to that we recently found for the floating-zone-grown silicon crystals is observed for the so-called vacancy-rich region of the ingot which contains no voids or dislocation clusters. We further uncover that the interstitial-rich region in the ingot exhibits no such elastic softening, confirming our previous conclusion that the defects responsible for the low-temperature elastic softening are the vacancies. We also disclose that the elastic softening is absent for the ring-like oxidation stacking fault (R-OSF) region of the ingot. The measured distribution of the vacancy concentration indicates that the minority point defects are perfectly cancelled by the majority point defects during the CZ crystal growth.


IntroductionHospital safety performance is difficult to monitor when under-coding of hospital harms is common. The beta version of ICD-11 includes a 3-part model for coding harms to enhance adverse event descriptions. This method includes code clusters to detail each condition/event (e.g. bleed), cause (e.g. anticoagulant drug), and mode (over-dose).
Objectives and ApproachThe study objective was to compare the proportion of adverse events captured using different classification systems. A large field trial of inpatient charts, previously coded in ICD-10 were coded with ICD-11. Coding training for the new ICD-11 focused on new codes, code clustering, and extension codes for cause and mode of the harm. Sensitivity, Specificity, NPV and PPV were reported for ICD-10 compared to ICD-11.
ResultsOf the 1,009 records reviewed and coded using ICD-11 to date, 128 cases were coded as a harm in ICD-10 using our previously published PSI work. Coders identified 88 cases with the new ICD-11. Sensitivity and specificity were as follows: 31.3% and 94.6%. ICD-11 had NPV and PPV of 45.5% and 90.5% respectively compared to ICD-10. Detailed clinical comparison of mismatched codes will be completed. Study case examples will demonstrate advanced features of ICD-11, the coding rules being collaboratively developed by our team, CIHI, and WHO representatives, and potential analytic challenges.
Conclusion/ImplicationsThe new ICD-11 found 8% of hospital admission were associated with a harm. Although the sensitivity was modest, specificity is quite high and correctly Identifies those cases without a harm. Clinical review of mismatched codes will provide further detailed code comparisons.


In this study, the fruits of ten seed propagated walnut genotypes pre selected according to it's better fruit characteristics and high yield capacity were sampled from Nigde province and compared to standard walnut cultivars 'Sebin', 'Kaman' and 'Bilecik' for biological activity of fruits including total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Total phenolic content of walnut fruits were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and results expressed as mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per 100 g raw walnut fruit. The TEAC (trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity) and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assays assessed to estimate total antioxidant capacity. Total phenolic content were found between 1142 (cv. 'Sebin')-1861 (cv. 'Bilecik') mg GAE/100 g fresh walnut fruit in cultivars and between 1024 (genotype Nigde-08)-2014 (genotype Nigde-02) mg GAE/100 g fresh walnut fruit in non-grafted genotypes, respectively. In general seed propagated genotypes exhibited higher antioxidant activity than cultivars in both FRAP and TEAC method. The results showed that there were high variation among genotypes and cultivars in terms of biological activity that is important for future walnut breeding activity to select better parents to obtain high phytochemical content walnut cultivar candidates. KeywordsWalnut, Biological activity, Fruit properties


Recent evidence implicates the actin cytoskeleton in the control of receptor signaling. This may be of particular importance in the context of immune receptors, such as the B cell receptor, where dysregulated signaling can result in autoimmunity and malignancy. Here, we discuss the role of the actin cytoskeleton in controlling receptor compartmentalization, dynamics, and clustering as a means to regulate receptor signaling through controlling the interactions with protein partners. We propose that the actin cytoskeleton is a point of integration for receptor cross talk through modulation of protein dynamics and clustering. We discuss the implication of this cross talk via the cytoskeleton for both ligand-induced and low-level constitutive (tonic) signaling necessary for immune cell survival.


The aim of this paper is to analyze, via a case study, the main issues related to data production in a preliminary step of defining and designing a Decision Support System (DSS) for urban logistics. The case study is that of Bogota City, Colombia. We present in a first time a literature review concerning with the relevance of developments and application of DSS in urban areas, focusing on megacities. Then, the case study is presented, by identifying the context, the main stakeholders and the needs in information that would be used in a DSS for urban logistics. Finally, a discussion of those results and a set of practical implication are proposed.


Background: 1 in 5 people in the UK are deficient in vitamin D and people in the north of England are particularly high risk due to reduced vitamin D from the sun. NICE guidelines on preventing deficiency were published in November 2014 which state that "Healthcare professionals should assist with the uptake, promotion, and education of vitamin D supplementation amongst the population, especially within groups at risk."

Method: This was a cross-sectional questionnaire conducted in July-August 2018 amongst GPs in East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen CCGs. The questions assessed demographics of participants and their patients, knowledge of the guidelines and current practice on treating and supplementing.

Results: The vast majority of GPs practising in this area see patients regularly who are at risk of vitamin D deficiency. Those qualified for more than 5 years almost entirely relied on local guidelines based on NICE guidelines as their primary source of information about vitamin D (93.1%), compared to about half of First5 GPs or those still in training (52.6%). Those who had read local guidelines were significantly more confident in providing advice on vitamin D, X2 (16)=28.50, P<0.05.

Conclusion: GPs in East Lancashire regularly consult patients at risk of vitamin D deficiency. Local guidelines are seen as the most important source of information on managing these patients, and these give increased confidence to those who have read them. GPs' awareness and knowledge has increased compared to earlier studies in similar populations predating NICE guidelines, although time pressures remain a barrier to full implementation.


In this work, the concepts of quantum derivative and quantum integral are renamed to be the left quantum derivative and the left de…nite quantum integral. Symmetrically to the left, a new quantum derivative (the right) and de…nite quantum integral (the right) are de…ned. Some properties of these new concepts are investigated and as well as according todo these new concepts some inaccuracies in quantum integral inequalities are corrected. Moreover, some new quantum Hermite-Hadamard type inequalities are established.


The energetics and mechanisms of diffusion control the kinetics of such diverse phenomena as the fabrication of semiconductors and superconductors, the tempering of steel, geological metamorphism, the precipitation hardening of nonferrous alloys and corrosion of metals and alloys. This work explains the fundamentals of diffusion in the solid state at a level suitable for upper-level undergraduate and beginning graduate students in materials science, metallurgy, mineralogy, and solid state physics and chemistry. A knowledge of physical chemistry such as is generally provided by a one-year undergraduate course is a prerequisite, though no detailed knowledge of solid state physics or crystallography is required.


BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
Adequate concentrations of leptin, cortisol, and insulin are important for a suitable metabolism and development during adolescence. These hormones jointly with glucose play a major role in fat metabolism and development of childhood obesity. Our main objective was to quantify biomarkers as leptin, cortisol, insulin and glucose status in European adolescents to contribute to establish reference ranges.

METHODS
A representative sample of 927 adolescents (45% males, 14.9±1.2 years for the overall population) from ten European cities of the HELENA study was used to obtain fasting blood samples for these biomarkers. The percentile distributions were computed by sex and age and percentiles were associated with BMI classification.

RESULTS
Serum leptin concentration in adolescents varied significantly according to BMI, sex and age (all p < 0.001). Cortisol presented a tendency to increase with age, both for females and males, while insulin and glucose were stable with age. Leptin and insulin were highest in obese adolescents (p < 0.001), whilst cortisol and glucose did not vary with BMI. Percentiles 5, 25, 50, 75 and 95, for hormones values were, respectively: 1.27, 4.06, 11.54, 26.70 and 65.33 ng/ml for leptin; 5.00, 8.11, 11.14, 15.00 and 24.51 μg/dl for cortisol and 3.65, 6.15, 8.52, 11.90 and 20.53 μlU/ml for insulin.

CONCLUSIONS
In adolescents, leptin, cortisol, insulin and glucose concentrations are differently affected by age, sex and BMI. Establishment of reference ranges (percentiles) of these biomarkers would be of great interest when pediatricians have to assess the trend of an adolescent to develop obesity years after.


: Background: Recent advances in the design of blockchain-based personal data sharing platforms bring the benefit of empowering users with more control and privacy-preserving measures in sharing data products. However, so far very little is known about users' intentions to adopt such platforms for providing or consuming data products. Objective: This study aims to investigate users' main expectations, preferences, and concerns regarding the adoption of blockchain-based personal data sharing platforms in the health and education domains. Methods: Fifteen participants were involved in a multidimensional evaluation of a prototyped release of the KRAKEN blockchain-based data sharing platform and asked to assess it in the health or education pilot domains. Data collected during online group interviews with participants were analyzed by applying the micro interlocutor technique to provide a descriptive overview of participant responses. Results: Participants showed a marginal acceptance of the prototype usability, asking for some improvements of the user experience and for a more transparent presentation of the platform security and privacy preserving capabilities. Participants expressed interest in using the platform as data providers and consumers as well as setting privacy policies for sharing data products with third parties, including the possibility of revoking access to data. Conclusions: Blockchain-based data sharing platforms are more likely to engage target users when technical design is informed by a deeper knowledge of their needs, expectations, and relevant concerns.