: The working relationship between physicians and health care organizations has dramatically changed since the introduction of competitive factors. Fifer suggests that future doctors may have as many as five or six economic relationships with their associated health care system, in contrast to the singular role as admitting physician of the past. The physician will continue to admit patients, but may also belong to an HMO or some other joint venture (freestanding ambulatory care center, outpatient laboratory, etc.), be salaried part time for leadership roles, be a leader in some other parallel economic venture, etc. Physicians are already assuming multiple roles as health care providers, private entrepreneurs, and joint venture partners with hospitals. Hospitals and health care systems also continue to change through vertical and horizontal integration. Traditional clinical departments are becoming blended into product line entities, and a sophisticated executive team of market-oriented specialists now augments the traditional administrative leadership. So, from a tradition of predictable roles, relationships, and authority structures, we are now attempting to thrive and prosper with many new partners in an integrated, complex, and conflict-ridden set of interrelationships.


Basic drawbacks of calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) are the brittleness and low strength behavior which prohibit their use in many stress-bearing locations, unsupported defects, or reconstruction of thin bones. Recently, to solve these problems, researchers investigated the incorporation of fibers into CPCs to improve their strength. In the present study, various amounts of a highly bioactive glass fiber were incorporated into calcium phosphate bone cement. The obtained results showed that the compressive strength of the set cements without any fibers optimally increased by further addition of the fiber phase. Also, both the work-of-fracture and elastic modulus of the cement were considerably increased after applying the fibers in the cement composition. Herein, with the aim of using the reinforced-CPC as appropriate bone filler, the prepared sample was evaluated in vitro using simulated body fluid (SBF) and osteoblast cells. The samples showed significant enhancement in bioactivity within few days of immersion in SBF solution. Also, in vitro experiments with osteoblast cells indicated an appropriate penetration of the cells, and also the continuous increase in cell aggregation on the samples during the incubation time demonstrated the ability of the reinforced-CPC to support cell growth. Therefore, we concluded that this filler and strong reinforced-CPC may be beneficial to be used as bone fillers in surgical sites that are not freely accessible by open surgery or when using minimally invasive techniques.


Background: Myristica fragrans (nutmeg) seed extract (NuSE) has been reported as a ligand for Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR)-γ due to hypoglycemic and antidiabetic effects. The recent study also finds the role of PGC-1α as the regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis and the co-activator of PPAR-γ as well. Dopamine 1 receptor (D1DR) is generally distributed in the brain with a various function, such as cognitive function. As a preliminary study, we explore a possibility the current knowledge of the mechanism of NuSE enhance dopamine 1 receptor via neuronal mitochondrial biogenesis on infant rat brain tissue. Aim: This study was aimed to investigate whether PPARγ agonist from NuSE can induce expression brain PGC-1α and D1DR (D1A and D1B). Methods: Seven male rats (4 weeks) as a control and another seven male rats (4 weeks) was giving 8.1 mg NuSE / day by gavage within 12 weeks. End of the day, the rats were sacrificed, and the forebrain was extraction. Expression mRNA PGC 1-α and DIDR were analyzed. Results: The result showed significantly higher relatives expression of mRNA PGC-1α and mRNA D1DR in NuSE group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings provide preliminary support that PPAR-γ agonist from NuSE may offer a novel for the study brain mitochondrial biogenesis related mechanism of signaling dopamine receptor.


A fast algorithm for 3D surface reconstruction from stereovision data, namely stratified triangulation, is presented. The algorithm assumes a dense set of world points obtained from passive stereovision, and reconstructs a 3D scene. The stratification of random points follows a few heuristic rules. Triangles are formed only between strata, greatly limiting the search. The separation of surfaces is implemented by the standard region growing technique, from which road segments, obstacles, and other perceptual information can be derived. Some synthetic tests are shown to verify the algorithms. The envisaged application is autonomous navigation, e.g. of mobile robots.<<ETX>>


Carbon capture and storage (CCS) -Capturing CO2 released from industrial sources and storing it underground in deep geological layers- is a top priority to contribute significantly to the reduction of atmospheric emissions of greenhouse gases [1]. Basically, by storing CO2 underground, the carbon released through oil, gas and coal is returned back to where it was originated. This allows us to continue fossil fuel supply by the current consumption rate for decades. Among all CO2 storage sites in the world, Sleipner field is selected as the candidate storage site for this study. This is because of availability of both seismic data and well measurements such as pressure and injection rate. In addition, the Sleipner reservoir pressure and temperature are not far from the critical point and the effects of a designed injected stream can be observed with small variations in injection parameters. Existing compositional models for the Utsira formation where the CO2 is currently injected for the purpose of storage will be used to simulate the mentioned techniques. Providing the safe and long term storage requires the ability to combine reservoir characterization, monitoring technology, smart wells and innovative flooding techniques in cross-disciplinary reservoir management projects [2].The purpose of this study is to apply the reservoir management techniques that are implemented in production of oil and gas reserves to the practice of CO2 storage in saline aquifers. We propose a new injection strategy called LAG injection inspired from WAG injection that distribute CO2 plume distribution equally through the aquifer and consequently improve storage capacity and sweep efficiency. Combination of this new injection pattern with different well configurations, different cyclic alternating injection time, and simultaneous LAG injection can enhance storage capacity dramatically. The best cases show considerable increment of 81 % in storage capacity and 70 % in sweep efficiency dramatically.


In an earlier paper [Minimizing a quadratic over a sphere, SIAM J. Optim., 12 (2001), 188-208], we presented the sequential subspace method (SSM) for minimizing a quadratic over a sphere. This method generates approximations to a minimizer by carrying out the minimization over a sequence of subspaces that are adjusted after each iterate is computed. We showed in this earlier paper that when the subspace contains a vector obtained by applying one step of Newton's method to the first-order optimality system, SSM is locally, quadratically convergent, even when the original problem is degenerate with multiple solutions and with a singular Jacobian in the optimality system. In this paper, we prove (nonlocal) convergence of SSM to a global minimizer whenever each SSM subspace contains the following three vectors: (i) the current iterate, (ii) the gradient of the cost function evaluated at the current iterate, and (iii) an eigenvector associated with the smallest eigenvalue of the cost function Hessian. For nondegenerate problems, the convergence rate is at least linear when vectors (i)-(iii) are included in the SSM subspace.


We investigate the use of one-way cascadic multigrid strategies (CMG) in the solution of incompressible viscous flow using the finite element method. First we describe the basic CMG approach for representative elliptic boundary value problems and summarize the theoretical error estimates from approximation theory, desired smoother properties, and arithmetic complexity of the method. The extension of these error and complexity estimates to adaptive grids is also given. Then we present the mathematical formulation and the finite element approximation scheme for the class of fluid-thermal problems of interest. In supporting numerical experiments, we examine performance of the algorithm on both serial and distributed parallel systems. We carry out comparison studies with a standard BCG solution strategy on the fine level grid and study diagonal treatments for the zero pressure block.


It is now a common practice to employ ground- based radars in an attempt to distinguish between those re- gions of the Earth's upper atmosphere which are magnet- ically conjugate to open and closed magnetic field lines. Radar returns from ionospheric irregularities inside the polar cap and cusp regions generally exhibit large spectral widths in contrast to those which exist on closed field lines at lower latitudes. It has been suggested that the so-called Spectral Width Boundary (SWB) might act as a proxy for the open- closed field line boundary (OCFLB), which would then be an invaluable tool for investigating reconnection rates in the magnetosphere. The exact cause of the increased spectral widths observed at very high latitudes is still subject to con- siderable debate. Several mechanisms have been proposed. This paper compares a dusk-sector interval of coherent HF radar data with measurements made by an induction coil magnetometer located at Tromso, Norway (66 N geomag- netic). On this occasion, a number of equatorward excur- sions of the SWB in the radar backscatter are accompanied by increases in spectral power of ULF waves in the Pc1-2 fre- quency band as the SWB passes overhead. Thus, these obser- vations support the possibility that high-frequency magneto- spheric wave activity at least contribute to the observed spec- tral characteristics and that such wave activity might play a significant role in the nightside ionosphere.


A modification of the methotrexate radioassay kit (supplied by New England Enzyme Center) enabled determination of trimethoprim levels in 5-microliter serum samples. An excellent correlation between this assay and high-pressure liquid chromatography assay was found. These preliminary results suggest that with this method rapid determination of trimethoprim levels in very small samples (5 to 10 microliters) can be achieved.


Background
This programme of research addressed shortcomings in the care of three groups of older patients: patients discharged from acute medical units (AMUs), patients with dementia and delirium admitted to general hospitals, and care home residents.
Methods
In the AMU workstream we undertook literature reviews, performed a cohort study of older people discharged from AMU (Acute Medical Unit Outcome Study; AMOS), developed an intervention (interface geriatricians) and evaluated the intervention in a randomised controlled trial (Acute Medical Unit Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment Intervention Study; AMIGOS). In the second workstream we undertook a cohort study of older people with mental health problems in a general hospital, developed a specialist unit to care for them and tested the unit in a randomised controlled trial (Trial of an Elderly Acute care Medical and mental health unit; TEAM). In the third workstream we undertook a literature review, a cohort study of a representative sample of care home residents and a qualitative study of the delivery of health care to care home residents.
Results
Although 222 of the 433 (51%) patients recruited to the AMIGOS study were vulnerable enough to be readmitted within 3 months, the trial showed no clinical benefit of interface geriatricians over usual care and they were not cost-effective. The TEAM study recruited 600 patients and there were no significant benefits of the specialist unit over usual care in terms of mortality, institutionalisation, mental or functional outcomes, or length of hospital stay, but there were significant benefits in terms of patient experience and carer satisfaction with care. The medical and mental health unit was cost-effective. The care home workstream found that the organisation of health care for residents in the UK was variable, leaving many residents, whose health needs are complex and unpredictable, at risk of poor health care. The variability of health care was explained by the variability in the types and sizes of homes, the training of care home staff, the relationships between care home staff and the primary care doctors and the organisation of care and training among primary care doctors.
Discussion
The interface geriatrician intervention was not sufficient to alter clinical outcomes and this might be because it was not multidisciplinary and well integrated across the secondary care–primary care interface. The development and evaluation of multidisciplinary and better-integrated models of care is justified. The specialist unit improved the quality of experience of patients with delirium and dementia in general hospitals. Despite the need for investment to develop such a unit, the unit was cost-effective. Such units provide a model of care for patients with dementia and delirium in general hospitals that requires replication. The health status of, and delivery of health care to, care home residents is now well understood. Models of care that follow the principles of comprehensive geriatric assessment would seem to be required, but in the UK these must be sufficient to take account of the current provision of primary health care and must recognise the importance of the care home staff in the identification of health-care needs and the delivery of much of that care.
Trial registration
Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN21800480 (AMIGOS); ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01136148 (TEAM).


Resveratrol possesses several beneficial metabolic effects in rodents, while the effects of resveratrol in humans remain unclear. Therefore, we performed a non-targeted comprehensive metabolomic analysis on blood, urine, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle tissue in middle-aged men with metabolic syndrome randomized to either resveratrol or placebo treatment for four months. Changes in steroid hormones across all four matrices were the most pronounced changes observed. Resveratrol treatment reduced sulfated androgen precursors in blood, adipose tissue, and muscle tissue, and increased these metabolites in urine. Furthermore, markers of muscle turnover were increased and lipid metabolism was affected, with increased intracellular glycerol and accumulation of long-chain saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated (n3 and n6) free fatty acids in resveratrol-treated men. Finally, urinary derivatives of aromatic amino acids, which mainly reflect the composition of the gut microbiota, were altered upon resveratrol treatment. In conclusion, the non-targeted metabolomics approach applied to four different matrices provided evidence of subtle but robust effects on several metabolic pathways following resveratrol treatment for four months in men with metabolic syndrome—effects that, for the most part, would not have been detected by routine analyses. The affected pathways should be the focus of future clinical trials on resveratrol's effects, and perhaps particularly the areas of steroid metabolism and the gut microbiome.


In this paper structural, electrical, electrochemical and thermal (DSC) characterization of series of manganese spinel samples with manganese substituted to different degree (x = 0 – 0.5) with nickel are presented. The conductivity and thermoelectric power measurements were performed in wide temperature range also versus oxygen partial pressure and for deintercalated samples. Electrochemical studies of these cathode materials were conducted in Li / Li+ / LiyNixMn2−xO4 type cells. Substitution of manganese with nickel causes disappearance of the phase transition characteristic of LiMn2O4 spinel. Studies of electrical properties reveal that Ni ions do not participate in charge transport at low temperatures. In the charge curves of Li / Li+/ LiyNixMn2−xO4 cells there are two visible plateaux, separated with distinct potential jump (~0.5V), which position on Li content perfectly matches the Mn3+ content in the doped cathode material. The lower plateau is related to the Mn3+ → Mn4+ oxidation, while the next of higher voltage, of the dopant Ni2+ → Ni4+ oxidation. The schematic diagrams of relative Mn – Ni electronic levels alignment are proposed.


OBJECTIVES
This paper aims to evaluate the clinical and diagnostic usefulness of uro MRI, to show the study technique and to establish correlations of some of its results with conventional intravenous urography (IVU). Frequency and prevalence by age and gender of pathologies were evaluated.

METHODS
We studied a total of 58 patients, 31 females and 27 males, with an age range between 22-92 years. All patients underwent uro MRI between April 2003 and January 2005. We perform a double-blind study with those patients undergoing conventional IVU before uro MRI.

RESULTS
The total number of patients evaluated was 58, 35 of which present more than 1 concurrent pathology 17.2% (n=10) of the studies were normal, five males and five females, with an age range between 22 and 83 years, and a mean age of 46.1 years. IVU was diagnostic for 100% and 83.3% of A and B observers respectively; uro MRI was diagnostic for 50% and 0% respectively. Ureteral lithiasis showed a result of 50% and 100% for IVU; uro MRI had a 75% for both observers. In cases of double pyelocalyceal system both methods have a 100% accordance between both observers. In bladder cancer, uro MRI was diagnostic in 100% and IVU in 0% for both observers.

CONCLUSIONS
The most frequent concurrent pathology was cystic renal disease, and the second was urolithiasis with urinary tract dilation. Uro MRI was superior to see bladder and pyeloureteral pathologies, but in cases of renal lithiasis and urinary tract calcifications IVU is the test of choice yet.


My PhD thesis addresses the question of how multilingual and exophonic writers used 'other' languages to express distinct cultural and identity concerns. I argue that writers have used languages in their fiction to negotiate the new voice of a migrant/minority community with the dominant culture and to challenge the mainstream reader to find new ways of reading the migrant/minority experience. In the critical thesis I explore such themes as writing in exile, narrative fugues, rhizomatic writing as they weave into my writing poetics. I use the concepts of a musical fugue and a rhizome to explore the politics of identity and language in the context of migration and displacement. These concepts offer a new way of reading the migrant experience by reframing it as the polyphony of multiplicity rather than the monophony of difference. Through my essayistic exploration, the critical thesis becomes a commentary on the novel and my manifesto as an exophonic writer who has chosen English rather than Polish as the main literary language.

I have used the results of my research to write Homeland Variations, a novel merging the interweaving stories of various migrants (Jan, Janine, her parents, Malgosia, Uncle Jurek, Maria, and Sophie in Amsterdam) into one fugal narrative and exploring the questions of language, identity, and place. The novel consists of two parts: Jan's and Janine's stories which stand in a counterpoint relation to each other and exist independently, just like two melodies in a fugue, connected through themes, languages, a character Maria, and a place – Edinburgh where both stories end. The two stories stand independently also with regards to the narrative style, as Jan's narrative is surrealist, while Janine's is realist. Homeland Variations portrays the loss of the mother tongue, the loss of social environment, and all the connections that make us feel that we belong. Through the voices of migrating characters, it looks at interactions within linguistic landscapes, at the distance and separation from everything anyone who lives 'in exile' desires to call home.

In the novel I merge languages on the page to show the multiple, centri-fugal, rhizomatic nature of being a migrant and writing in a foreign language. My creative vision goes against the monolithic "one nation-one state-one language" approach to both writing and migration. Both the critical thesis and the novel are my attempts to find language to talk about language in the acceptance of our state of being unsettled.


OBJECTIVES:There is a genetic predisposition to hepatitis B vaccine nonresponse. The link between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotype and ineffective development of immunity to the hepatitis B vaccine has been characterized in multiple studies. Celiac disease has a strong association with a particular HLA genotype of DQ2; interestingly, this HLA genotype is seen in association with nonresponders to the hepatitis B vaccine. We report a disproportionate number of patients with celiac disease who are nonresponders to the hepatitis B vaccine series.METHODS:We reviewed the hepatitis B vaccine records, serological tests for anti–hepatitis B surface antigen antibody (anti-HBs), and HLA genotypes of celiac disease patients identified as nonresponders to hepatitis B vaccine. Subjects were identified from a database of patients diagnosed with celiac disease at our institution or referred to our center for evaluation and management of celiac disease between November, 2000, and October, 2002.RESULTS:A total of 23 subjects were reviewed. All had a clinical and pathological diagnosis of celiac disease. All subjects reported receiving the full series of hepatitis B vaccinations. Of the subjects, 19 had testing for hepatitis B vaccine response. Of these 19 subjects, 13 did not achieve long-term immunity as seen by the negative qualitative or quantitative anti-HBs antibody titer. All tested subjects were either homozygous or heterozygous for DQ2.CONCLUSIONS:We postulate that celiac disease patients may have a significant predisposition to hepatitis B vaccine nonresponse. Both celiac disease and hepatitis B vaccine nonresponse is genetically mediated. Celiac disease patients may have a failure of induction of humoral immune response needed for development of long term immunity; the mechanism for this is unclear.


This descriptive-correlational research was designed to determine the critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence, and performance of pre-service teachers. This mixed qualitative-quantitative research was responded by three hundred eighty-two pre-service teachers coming from the six campuses of Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College system offering teacher education program. Percentage, mean, chi-square and content analysis were used to determine the data needed for this research. Major findings revealed that here was high level of critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence, and performance of pre-service teachers. The respondents' profile in terms of age sex and course has no significant relationship. Significant relationships were noted in the portfolio and actual demonstration teaching; emotional intelligence and pre-service teaching performance; academic performance and pre-service teaching performance; and academic performance and emotional intelligence. There are significant differences noted between the profile and the critical thinking skills and the emotional intelligence of the respondents. The admission policy of the teacher education should include critical thinking skills and emotional intelligence as part of the criteria in selecting the students entering the program in addition to their teaching aptitude aspects. The monitoring and evaluation process of the student teaching performance particularly on the type of evaluation instrument should be improved by institutional standards for the whole system and the rubrics for evaluating the demonstration teaching must be agreed upon and approved by the board of trustees.


How does the cerebellum, the brain's largest sensorimotor structure, contribute to complex behaviors essential to survival? While we know much about the role of limbic and closely associated brainstem structures in relation to a variety of emotional, sensory, or motivational stimuli, we know very little about how these circuits interact with the cerebellum to generate appropriate patterns of behavioral response. Here we focus on evidence suggesting that the olivo-cerebellar system may link to survival networks via interactions with the midbrain periaqueductal gray, a structure with a well known role in expression of survival responses. As a result of this interaction we argue that, in addition to important roles in motor control, the inferior olive, and related olivo-cortico-nuclear circuits, should be considered part of a larger network of brain structures involved in coordinating survival behavior through the selective relaying of "teaching signals" arising from higher centers associated with emotional behaviors.


Purpose
To compare the efficacies of mirabegron 50 mg addition after alpha-adrenoreceptor blocker in terms of reducing storage symptoms in patients with BPH.

Materials and Methods
Fifty-eight patients that had been taking alpha-adrenoreceptor blocker for more than 8 weeks, but had an OABSS of greater than 3 points, were initially enrolled. One group added any alpha-adrenoreceptor blocker with mirabegron 50 mg (n=39; the mirabegron group) and the other group received alpha-adrenoreceptor blocker only (n=19; the control group) for 8 weeks.

Results
In the control group, mean total IPSS decreased from 15.7 to 13.1 (p=0.298) and in mirabegron group, mean total IPSS decreased from 19.4 to 16.5 (p=0.024). Mean storage symptom scores reduced in the control and mirabegron groups from 8.5 to 7.9 (p=0.584) and from 9.1 to 7.6 (p=0.015), respectively, and mean QoL scores from 3.7 to 3.1 (p=0.052) and 3.6 to 3.2 (p=0.027), respectively. Mean overall OABSS in the control and mirabegron groups reduced from 8.4 to 7.2 (p=0.173) and from 8.8 to 7.3, respectively (p=0.005); mean OABSS Q3 from 3.6 to 2.9 (p=0.073) and from 3.5 to 2.7 (p=0.002), respectively; and mean OABSS Q4 from 2.4 to 2.0 (p=0.306) and from 2.7 to 2.0 (p=0.016), respectively. The change of mean Qmax and PVR was insignificant in 2 groups.

Conclusions
IPSS total scores, storage symptom scores, QoL, overall OABSS, OABSS Q3 and Q4 were more improved significantly by alpha-adrenoreceptor blocker with mirabegron 50 mg in BPH patients with persistent overactive symptoms. Mirabegron 50 mg addition is considered to patients with persistent storage symptoms after alpha-adrenoreceptor blocker.


Owl monkey peripheral blood mononuclear cells were treated with phytohemagglutinin and expanded in interleukin 2 (IL-2)-containing medium. The cells were then exposed to Herpesvirus saimiri (HVS strain S295C)-infected owl monkey kidney monolayer cells. Four to 6 weeks later, the lymphocytes showed increased clumping and cell growth and the ability to grow in the absence of IL-2. Control lymphocyte cultures not exposed to HVS eventually died out at approximately 6-8 weeks, even in the presence of IL-2. Although infected lymphocytes grew continuously in the absence of IL-2, their growth was enhanced by addition of IL-2 to the cultures. Natural killer cell-like cytotoxicity and gamma-interferon release were also enhanced by IL-2. All cultures were positive for HVS antigens, infectious centers, or DNA. The reactivity of monoclonal antibodies to cell surface markers suggested that the resultant cell lines were comprised of activated T cells. The properties of the in vitro-transformed cells were similar to those of cells established from HVS-induced owl monkey tumors. Our results suggest that infection of T lymphocytes with HVS results in decreased dependence of T cells upon exogenous IL-2 for growth.


Merging Coma Galaxy clusters grow through mergers and accretion of matter to become the largest gravitationally bound structures in the universe. Sanders et al. (p. 1365) report long, high-resolution observations with NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory that probe hot, ionized gas at the core of the Coma cluster—one of the nearest and best-studied galaxy clusters. The data reveal several large-scale, filament-shaped x-ray brightness enhancements, which provide insight into the cluster's merging history. X-ray observations from space provide insight into the merging history of one of the nearest galaxy clusters. The hot x-ray–emitting plasma in galaxy clusters is predicted to have turbulent motion, which can contribute around 10% of the cluster's central energy density. We report deep Chandra X-ray Observatory observations of the Coma cluster core, showing the presence of quasi-linear high-density arms spanning 150 kiloparsecs, consisting of low-entropy material that was probably stripped from merging subclusters. Two appear to be connected with a subgroup of galaxies at a 650-kiloparsec radius that is merging into the cluster, implying coherence over several hundred million years. Such a long lifetime implies that strong isotropic turbulence and conduction are suppressed in the core, despite the unrelaxed state of the cluster. Magnetic fields are presumably responsible. The structures seen in Coma present insight into the past billion years of subcluster merger activity.


In 1914 Zetkin was asked by her publisher, J. H. W. Dietz, to prepare a fresh edition of Ein Rückblick aus dem Jahre 2000 auf das Jahr 1887, and in so doing she took the opportunity to add a foreword. The foreword was regularly reprinted in later versions of Bellamy's novel from 1914 to 1980, though it has never appeared in the (pre-or postunification) Federal Republic, and although the German Democratic Republic regularly included it in reprints of the novel, the foreword was also omitted from Zetkin's selected writings. There are three main collections of Zetkin's writings in English—those published in the online Marxist Internet Archive, the pieces collected in Zetkin's Selected Writings, edited by Philip S. Foner, and those recently edited by Mike Jones and Ben Lewis as her Letters and Writings—but the foreword has not appeared in any. Therefore, the time seems ripe for the publication of an English translation of the foreword, especially given the perennial importance of Edward Bellamy in the utopian tradition and also the recent surge of interest in Clara Zetkin within academic discourse.


Background: Neuropsychiatric cases require a multidisciplinary approach for effective management. This paper presented case-based discussions on migraine, dementia, epilepsy, mood disorders, neuralgia, and psychosis from the perspectives of a family physician, neurologist, and psychiatrist. The goal was to highlight the importance of collaboration between healthcare providers in managing these complex cases. Methods: The paper was based on the proceedings of the Mediterranean Neuropsychiatry Symposium, where experts from family medicine, neurology, and psychiatry came together for comprehensive case-based discussions. The CARE framework (Case Report, Appraisal, Research, and Education) was developed to guide reporting and evaluation of case reports in clinical practice. Results: Six cases were presented and discussed, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing neuropsychiatric cases. The cases included chronic migraine with medication overuse, memory dysfunction with language and behavioral problems, refractory epileptic seizures with subjective sensory symptoms, bipolar affective disorder with normal pressure hydrocephalus, postherpetic neuralgia in a case with bipolar affective disorder, and psychosis with recurrent attacks with the abuse of several substances. Conclusion: A biopsychosocial multidisciplinary approach is essential for managing neuropsychiatric cases effectively on behalf of the patients and public health of the country. The CARE framework can guide the reporting and evaluation of case reports in clinical practice, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and effective care. Healthcare providers should collaborate to provide the best possible care for patients with complex and multifaceted needs.


Background A clinical algorithm (Algo) in paper form is used in Quebec, Canada, to allow health care workers other than occupational therapists (OTs) to make bathroom adaptation recommendations for older adults. An integrated knowledge transfer process around Algo suggested an electronic version of this decision support system (electronic decision support system [e-DSS]) to be used by older adults and their caregivers in search of information and solutions for their autonomy and safety in the bathroom. Objective This study aims to (1) create an e-DSS for the self-selection of bathroom-assistive technology by community-dwelling older adults and their caregivers and (2) assess usability with lay users and experts to improve the design accordingly. Methods On the basis of a user-centered design approach, the process started with content identification for the prototype through 7 semistructured interviews with key informants of various backgrounds (health care providers, assistive technology providers, and community services) and 4 focus groups (2 with older adults and 2 with caregivers). A thematic content transcript analysis was carried out and used during the creation of the prototype. The prototype was refined iteratively using think-aloud and observation methods with a clinical expert (n=1), researchers (n=3), OTs (n=3), older adults (n=3), and caregivers (n=3), who provided information on the usability of the e-DSS. Results Overall, 4 themes served as the criteria for the prototype of the electronic Algo (Hygiene 2.0 [H2.0]): focus (safety, confidentiality, well-being, and autonomy), engage, facilitate (simplify, clarify, and illustrate), and access. For example, users first pay attention to the images (engage and illustrate) that can be used to depict safe postures (safety), illustrate questions embedded in the decision support tool (clarify and illustrate), and demonstrate the context of the use of assistive technology (safety and clarify). Conclusions The user-centered design of H2.0 allowed the cocreation of an e-DSS in the form of a website, in line with the needs of community-dwelling older adults and their caregivers seeking bathroom-assistive technology that enables personal hygiene. Each iteration improved usability and brought more insight into the users' realities, tailoring the e-DSS to the implementation context.


This work presents a two-dimensional (2-D) system theory based iterative learning control (ILC) method for linear continuous-time multivariable systems. We demonstrate that a 2-D continuous-discrete model can be successfully applied to describe both the dynamics of the control system and the behavior of the learning process. We successfully exploited the 2-D continuous-discrete Roesser's linear model by extending the ILC technique from discrete control systems to continuous control systems. Three learning rules for ILC are derived. Necessary and sufficient conditions are given for convergence of the proposed learning rules. Compared to the learning rule suggested by Arimoto et al. (1984), our developed learning rules are less restrictive and have wider applications. The third learning rule proposed ensures the reference output trajectory can be accurately tracked after only one learning trial. Three numerical examples are used to illustrate the proposed control procedures.


The constitutive heparin+ (HP) mast cells (MCs) in mice express mouse MC protease (mMCP)-5 and carboxypeptidase A (mMC-CPA). The amino acid sequence of mMCP-5 is most similar to that of human chymase-1, as are the nucleotide sequences of their genes and transcripts. Using a homologous recombination approach, a C57BL/6 mouse line was created that possessed a disrupted mMCP-5 gene. The resulting mice were fertile and had no obvious developmental abnormality. Lack of mMCP-5 protein did not alter the granulation of the IL-3/IL-9-dependent mMCP-2+ MCs in the jejunal mucosa of Trichinella spiralis-infected mice. In contrast, the constitutive HP+ MCs in the tongues of mMCP-5-null mice were poorly granulated and lacked mMC-CPA protein. Bone marrow-derived MCs were readily developed from the transgenic mice using IL-3. Although these MCs contained high levels of mMC-CPA mRNA, they also lacked the latter exopeptidase. mMCP-5 protein is therefore needed to target translated mMC-CPA to the secretory granule along with HP-containing serglycin proteoglycans. Alternately, mMCP-5 is needed to protect mMC-CPA from autolysis in the cell's granules. Fibronectin was identified as a target of mMCP-5, and the exocytosis of mMCP-5 from the MCs in the mouse's peritoneal cavity resulted in the expression of metalloproteinase protease-9, which has been implicated in arthritis. In support of the latter finding, experimental arthritis was markedly reduced in mMCP-5-null mice relative to wild-type mice in two disease models.


INTRODUCTION
Erectile dysfunction is a serious and common complication of diabetes mellitus. Apart from the peripheral actions, central mechanisms are also responsible for the penile erection.

AIM
The goal of the present study was to determine the impact of exercise training (ExT) on the centrally mediated erectile dysfunction in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type I diabetic (T1D) rats.

METHODS
Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with STZ to induce diabetes mellitus. Three weeks after STZ or vehicle injections, rats were assigned to either ExT (treadmill running for 3-4 weeks) or sedentary groups to produce four experimental groups: control + sedentary, T1D + sedentary, control + ExT, and T1D + ExT.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE
After 3-4 weeks ExT, central N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) or sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced penile erectile responses were measured. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus was measured by using histochemistry, real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot approaches.

RESULTS
In rats with T1D, ExT significantly improved the blunted erectile response, and the intracavernous pressure changes to NMDA (50 ng) microinjection within the PVN (T1D + ExT: 3.0 ± 0.6 penile erection/rat; T1D + sedentary: 0.5 ± 0.3 penile erection/rat within 20 minutes, P < 0.05). ExT improved erectile dysfunction induced by central administration of exogenous nitric oxide (NO) donor, SNP in T1D rats. Other behavior responses including yawning and stretching, induced by central NMDA and SNP microinjection were also significantly increased in T1D rats after ExT. Furthermore, we found that ExT restored the nNOS mRNA and protein expression in the PVN in T1D rats.

CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that ExT may have beneficial effects on the erectile dysfunction in diabetes through improvement of NO bioavailability within the PVN. Thus, ExT may be used as therapeutic modality to up-regulate nNOS within the PVN and improve the central component of the erectile dysfunction in diabetes mellitus.


Background: A dental injury is an emergency requiring immediate treatment to reduce pain and restore the tooth's function and aesthetics. The maxillary central incisors are the teeth most commonly affected by trauma. Some articles have reported that 58.6% of patients aged 7–15 years old have sustained dental injuries in the form of maxillary incisor crown fractures. This may occur before or after root formation is complete, and the results may range from pulp inflammation to pulp necrosis. A class IV Ellis fracture describes a traumatized tooth that has become non-vital, with or without the loss of the tooth structure. It is important to determine the pulp vitality and root development stage in order to create a treatment plan. Case report: This paper describes the management of a class IV Ellis tooth fracture in a permanent central incisor via crown restoration with a fiberglass post after an endodontic procedure in a 14-year and 8-month-old patient. Discussion: Non-vital traumatized teeth require root canal treatment followed by crown and post core restoration for intra coronal retention. A fiberglass post and resin is an option in this case because of its advantages when compared to a metal post, including good aesthetics, adhesion to the dentin (mono block dentin-post-core system), and modulus of elasticity, which is almost the same as that of dentin. It can distribute pressure equally in the root, reducing the risk of fracture. Conclusion: The 14-week follow-up examination showed that the restoration remained in place and was successful. Case report (J Int Dent Med Res 2017; 10(Special Issue): pp. 830-833)


Hybrid solar cells based on CdSe nanoparticles and a PPV-type polymer containing fluorene and thiophene units (PFT) were investigated. The CdSe/PFT devices showed very low photocurrent and fill factor values, which was attributed to the poor charge transport in the TOPO-capped CdSe nanoparticle phase. Thus, ternary systems based on mixtures of PFT/CdSe and the fullerene derivative PCBM were investigated. The CdSe:PCBM ratio was varied, and nanoparticles with different sizes were also used. It was observed that for the optimized composition of 20 wt% PFT + 40 wt% CdSe + 40 wt% PCBM the devices presented higher photocurrents and efficiencies. The photophysical and electrochemical properties and microscopy images (AFM and HRTEM) of the ternary systems were systematically investigated to elucidate the mechanism of action of the inorganic nanoparticles in these ternary hybrid devices.


Optical quantum memories, which store and preserve the quantum state of photons, rely on a coherent mapping of the photonic state onto matter states that are optically accessible. Here we outline a new physical mechanism to map the state of photons onto the long-lived but optically inaccessible collective state of noble-gas spins. The mapping employs the coherent spin-exchange interaction arising from random collisions with alkali vapor. We analyze optimal strategies for high-efficiency storage and retrieval of non-classical light at various parameter regimes. Based on these strategies, we identify feasible experimental conditions for realizing efficient quantum memories with noble-gas spins having hours-long coherence times at room temperature and above


In the context of object-based image compression, shape encoders that describe the contour of the objects, called chain codes, tend to be more efficient than that the one based on bitmap, which is the MPEG-4 Part 2 framework. Among the chain codes, those based on grid cells are expected to outperform the ones that employ a symbol to code each particular boundary pixel. This paper presents a lossless chain code based approach for binary shapes encoding, called OCULMGCC (Optimized Cell Usage Lossless Multi Grid Chain Code). The OCU-LMGCC solves shortcomings in the original MGCC, optimizes the required extra parallel information to the decoder and uses a new set of coding symbols, better suited to the novel cell-switching schemes proposed. Results showed a compression gain noticeable larger than the known algorithms reported in the literature. Keywords-shape encoding, object-based image compression, MPEG-4, chain code, grid cell.


Background: Increased oxidative stress and histopathological damage have been implicated in the cardiotoxicity that limits the clinical therapy of cisplatin (CP) as an anti-cancer drug. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of hesperidin (HP) against CP-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Materials and Methods: Rats were divided into four groups (n = 7/group), and the first group served as the control group. Animals in Group CP and Group CP + HP received a single dose of CP (CP - 7 mg/kg); animals in Group HP and Group CP + HP received 50 mg/kg/day HP with gavage for 14 days. At the end of day 14, cardiac tissue samples were histologically and biochemically examined. Results: In this experimental study, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels in the cardiac tissue were significantly higher in the CP group, whereas glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and CAT levels were significantly lower in this group. On the other hand, GSH and SOD levels in the CP + HP group were similar to the control group. There was no significant difference in cardiac CAT levels between Group CP and Group CP + HP. Conclusion: Hesperetin treatment leads to a decrease in oxidative stress, and associated histological damage. The findings of the current study suggest that HP has a protective effect against CP-induced cardiotoxicity.


By examining larvae from dogs in which the adult stages had been identified, the morphology of Angiostrongylus vasorum, Filaroides osleri, Filaroides hirthi and Crenosoma vulpis from samples of faeces or bronchoalveolar lavage was compared. The tail morphology of the four species was distinctive: A vasorum had a typical cuticular indentation and projection on the dorsal surface of the tail (referred to as the dorsal notch and dorsal spine, respectively) and a smaller indentation on the ventral surface. The tails of the other species are described. A vasorum was significantly longer (mean [sd] 358·4 μm [10·28], range 334 to 380 μm) than the other species (range 229 to 281 μm).


Twenty-three neurologically examined headache patients completed treatment for a concomitantly diagnosed craniomandibular disorder. More than two-thirds of the subjects responded favorably to the treatment and headaches decreased. Differences between patients regarding the response to treatment were studied. Patients with a decreased headache intensity reported more coexisting neck problems before treatment (P less than 0.05). Patients with an alleviation of headaches showed a larger distance between passive and active maximum mouth opening before treatment (P less than 0.05). The probability of headache improvement by craniomandibular disorder treatment was found to be greater in patients with a difference of 5 mm or more between passive and active maximum mouth opening (P less than 0.05).


Nonuniform light distribution is a fundamental limitation to biological hydrogen production by phototrophic bacteria. Numerous light distribution designs and culture conditions have been developed to reduce self‐shading and nonuniform reactivity within bioreactors. In this study, highly concentrated (2.0 × 108 CFU/μL formulation) nongrowing Rhodopseudomonas palustris CGA009 were immobilized in thin, nanoporous, latex coatings. The coatings were used to study hydrogen production in an argon atmosphere as a function of coating composition, thickness, and light intensity. These coatings can be generated aerobically or anaerobically and are more reactive than an equivalent number of suspended or settled cells. Rhodopseudomonas palustris latex coatings remained active after hydrated storage for greater than 3 months in the dark and over 1 year when stored at –80 °C. The initial hydrogen production rate of the microphotobioreactors containing 6.25 cm2, 58.4 μm thick Rps. palustris latex coatings illuminated by 34.1 PAR μmol photons m‐2 s‐1 was 6.3 mmol H2 m‐2 h‐1 and had a final yield of 0.55 mol H2 m‐2 in 120 h. A dispersible latex blend has been developed for direct comparison of the specific activity of settled, suspended, and immobilized Rps. palustris.


BACKGROUND
Urine may represent a convenient source of biomarkers for the early detection of Prostate Cancer (PCa) since it contains secreted prostatic products and exfoliated tumor cells. Furthermore, urine is easy to collect with non-invasive procedures which are repeatable.

METHOD
Several urinary biomarkers for PCa have been proposed in the past but only one (PCA3) has been approved for clinical use and even this is not widely utilized in the routine practice. Most of these, particularly the proteins, were abandoned due to lack of confirmation. DNA markers have been proposed but they are less suitable compared to other malignancies, such as bladder cancer due to the limited amount of DNA somatic alterations in PCa compared to gene fusions and pathway activations.

CONCLUSION
RNA biomarkers are still the most promising and particularly miRNA and AMACR mRNA but the main weaknesses that prevented the full clinical implementation are the absence of a validated of the cut-off levels and the identification of consistent reference standards.


This thesis develops the view that the semantics of spatial prepositions are more fully realised within a framework of functionality, incorporating knowledge of the world, than within the spatial, geometrical framework more often used to analyse prepositions. It is argued that previous approaches which support full specification of lexical entries through the use of polysemy and prototype notions are not satisfactory or psychologically valid. It will also be shown that the minimal specification Classical approaches fail to account for all uses of the locatives described. It is suggested that minimal specification of lexical entries can be achieved by means of functional controls that can provide a more psychologically valid account of the semantics of spatial prepositions.

Functional geometric control relations of fContainment, fSupport and fSuperiority are proposed for IN, ON and OVER respectively. These focus on the importance of location control in prepositional choice. It is argued that such controls underlie the use of spatial prepositions. The controls are suggested to be inherently dynamic and state that the relatum object is some way able to control the location of the referent object. For example, the use of the preposition IN is guided by the principle of fContainment which operates on the basic premise that the relatum (y) controls the location of the referent (x) such that when y moves there will be a correlated movement in x (or uncorrelated movement within the convex hull of y) by virtue of some degree of enclosure. The control relation that guides the use of OVER is fSuperiority and it operates on the basic premise that x threatens to come into contact with y as a consequence of gravitational force. Finally, the use of the preposition ON is suggested to be guided by notions of fSupport which operates on the premise that the relatum protects the referent from the force of gravity.


The sponge material from the Straits of Magellan collected by the research vessels Cariboo in 1991 and Victor Hensen in 1994, and by a shallow water diving team, were studied. Most of the investigated bottoms were soft or detritic and true rocky shores were seldom surveyed. However, alternative hard substrata are the holdfasts of dead laminarians, very abundant in the Straits, which represent a sort of microenvironment suitable for settling of sponges and other benthic organisms. Out of a total of more than 150 specimens, 44 demosponge species were identified. The resulting taxonomic pattern suggests a very heterogeneous sponge assemblage, partly related to the variety of the surveyed stations. Sponge communities are characterized by a patchy distribution, a high specific diversity and a low biomass. Most of the recorded species are of austral origin and distribution, confirming the Subantarctic character of the demosponge fauna of the Magellan Straits and its close affinity (14 species in common) with the fauna of the Antarctic continent. Twenty species identified in this study had never been recorded before from the Straits.


TO THE EDITOR: We read with great interest the article by Drs. Cawcutt and Wilson on caring for international patients.1 They provide an overview of the challenges of delivering medical care for these patients (eg, cultural differences) and the likely benefi ts from such interactions (eg, gaining cultural knowledge). Having practiced medicine in 3 different continents and experienced working in various medical centers caring for international patients, we would like to offer a slightly different viewpoint. First, gaining cultural knowledge should be regarded as a prerequisite for healthcare workers involved in the care of international patients, rather than the expected benefi t and consequence of such encounters. Healthcare workers with some knowledge of an international patient's culture are best able to serve that patient.2 Indeed, unless knowledge of cultural differences is obtained before such interactions, there is a signifi cant risk of stereotyping by amplifying the sense of "otherness," which is unfortunately too often mistaken for cultural sensitivity. The perception of the stereotypes and prejudices during the second stage of cultural adaptation (ie, irritation, hostility) often stems from the host's lack of cultural knowledge. Table 1 of their article clearly refl ects such risk: the authors have tried to exemplify the concepts they discussed through a number of real-life scenarios. But indeed some of those cases (eg, the man from Saudi Arabia) could be interpreted more as examples of stereotyping than cultural sensitivity. Second, the authors do not mention requests by family members of international patients for nondisclosure of serious medical diagnoses, one we have frequently received from family members from different cultural backgrounds. These requests represent another challenge of caring for these patients as they counter our obligation for full disclosure and the patients' right to know in order to be able to make informed decisions regarding their medical care.3


The article examines the peculiarities of the young people perception of political content in social networks. The use of an objective neurophysiological oculography method for the study of visual attention has been proposed. The empirical basis of the study was the analysis of 1500 social network posts of political orientation, to which the tagging of the visual part of the message was applied and basic behavioral statistics were collected, including indicators of communicability, attractiveness and virality. This allowed to conduct a primary classification of political content and form sets of stimulating material for conducting neurophysiological research. The research experiment consisted of consecutive displaying collages of various types of political content (memes, photographs of political leaders, photographs of political events and posters) and simultaneously recording the participants eye movement behavior using a web tracker. The obtained quantitative data was used to determine the trajectory of studying the stimulus material, as well as to assess visual attention when perceiving various types of political content. The study of the stimulus material begins with viewing the image in the upper left corner (0°–45°), then moves to the lower left corner (135°–180°), regardless of the type of content. It was discovered that the average duration of fixations for different types of political content differs significantly (H=8.201, df=3, p=0.042). The most attractive are memes and photographs of political leaders, the least attractive – posters. The first fixations are caused, as a rule, by the pattern of viewing visual information. An increase in the duration of perception of a stimulus leads to a redistribution of the duration of fixations to the images most interesting for the participants in the experiment. It was revealed that the average duration of fixations on the content entails its memorability (images), as indicated by the Pearson correlation coefficient (r=0.564, p=0.023). The obtained data on the visual perception of various types of political content allows to adjust and increase the effectiveness of the communication strategy for promoting certain accounts in social networks by actors of political power.


This research deals with designing and synthesizing a novel lead compound 1-benzyl-3-benzoylurea using the modified Schotten Baumann method and the objective is to find a more potent drug.In order to achieve the goal , the in-silico activity againts 1-UWH was calculated by Molegro Virtual Docker. Then, in-vitro antiproliferative activity against MCF-7 cell line was tested by MTT assay and compared with Hydroxyurea as a reference compound. The result showed that both in-silico and in-vitro test of 1-benzyl-3-benzoylurea were more potent than Hydroxyurea. It is highly recommended that 1-benzyl-3-benzoylurea be developed further as an antiproliferative agent.


Introduction: The use of nutritional supplements is prevalent among physical exercise practitioners and some adverse effects have been reported, however not sufficiently substantial, because they originate from isolated cases. Objectives: Investigate nutritional supplements consumption prevalence and adverse effects of the use of such products. Methods: An epidemiological, representative and transversal study, with 180 physical exercise practitioners in gyms, who answered questionnaires about sports supplementation, associated factors and self-perceived adverse effects. In a subsample of 86 individuals, blood pressure was measured and blood was collected for the evaluation of lipid profile markers, hepatic and renal function. Results: The supplementation prevalence level was 58.3%, whereas the physicians and nutritionists indicated only 21.9%. The reported adverse effects were observed only by supplement users (acne, insomnia, aggressiveness, headaches and tachycardia). Systolic blood pressure was higher in the supplemented group when compared to the control group (p = 0.04), as in the subgroup of thermogenic users (p < 0.0001) and among those who had consumed any type of supplementation for over 2 years (p = 0.005). Serum creatinine levels were higher only in the subgroup of carbohydrates when compared to the control group (p = 0.03). Diastolic blood pressure, lipid profile and hepatic function did not present differences between groups. Conclusions: The use of nutritional supplements without specialized orientation was elevated among physical exercise practitioners, being associated to adverse effects both by the users themselves and by clinical diagnosis.


In this paper, the false degeneracy of the Helmholtz boundary integral equations is examined. A new theory to explain the false degeneracy of the Helmholtz boundary integral equations is given. In this proposed theory, a false degeneracy of the boundary integral equation is explained as finding a non-trivial source distribution such that it results in trivial field quantities inside the domain interested and non-trivial field quantities for its counter part, i.e., outside the domain interested. It is clearly explained that such a false degeneracy is independent of prescribed boundary conditions but dependent on the integral equation one selects. Moreover, the false degeneracy of the integral equation for the interested domain relates to the eigenproblem for its counter part. Under such a unified theory, the fictitious eigenvalue, spurious eigenvalue and pseudo-fictitious eigenvalue can be explained in a simple mathematical frame. It is concluded from our theoretical analysis that a multiply connected domain results in the pseudo-fictitious eigenvalue even the complex-valued formulations are used. In order to eliminate various kinds of false degeneracy, two methods are employed according to the previous research. A unified view of these two methods is provided such that they can be thought to be equivalent from mathematical point of view. Several numerical examples are given to show the validity of current approach.


Inspired by the simple and spectacular experiment of dehydrogenation of sugar by sulphuric acid, we developed a microwave based solvothermal technique for the synthesis of activated carbon nano-sheets (aCNS) using white sugar as the carbon source and potassium hydroxide as the activating agent. Morphological studies using SEM showed micrometer-long and nanometer-thick aCNS, whereas HRTEM showed the presence of semi-graphitic islands. When used as electrodes in sodium-ion batteries, our aCNS showed a high specific capacitance of 423 mA h g−1 with a good rate capability even after 200 cycles.


Abstract This chapter analyses the recent evolution in the use of rapid sensory profiling techniques with respect to various situations where descriptive sensory information is needed in research, in product development, as well as in market research and consumer science. The most frequent objectives and constraints are reviewed in order to provide guidelines for users of rapid sensory methods. Implications of methodological changes in descriptive analysis are discussed. The chapter describes how the diversification of the sensory toolkit may impact on sensory activities, and why sensory scientists and their stakeholders should benefit from earlier and more integrated sensory measurements. Eventually, a SWOT analysis of rapid profiling methods is provided.


Aim. To assess the joint prognostic value of periprocedural dynamics of the left ventricular ejection fraction (PPD of LVEF) and subclinical pulmonary congestion during lung stress ultrasound in patients with first acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in relation to the development of heart failure (HF) in the postinfarction period.
Materials and methods. Our prospective, single-centre, observational study included 105 patients with a first MI with no HF in the anamnesis and successful PCI. All patients underwent standard clinical and laboratory tests, NT-proBNP level assessment, echocardiography, lung stress ultrasound with a 6-minute walk test. All patients had no clinical signs of heart failure at admission and at discharge. Criteria for PPD of LV EF: improvement in LV EF50%; ∆LV EF more than 5%, but LV EF50%. According to the results of lung stress ultrasound, pulmonary congestion was diagnosed: mild (24 B-lines), moderate (59 B-lines) and severe (10 B-lines). The end point was hospitalization for HF for 2.5 years.
Results. Upon admission, LV EF of 50% or more was registered in 45 patients (42.9%). Positive PPD was registered in 31 (29.5%) patients. After stress ultrasound of the lungs, 20 (19%) patients had mild subclinical pulmonary congestion, 38 (36%) moderate and 47 (45%) severe according to the criteria presented. During the observation period, patients with no PPD of LVEF were significantly more likely to be hospitalized for the development of HF (in 44.4% of cases) compared with patients with positive PPD (in 15.2% of cases) and with initial LV EF50% (in 13.4% of cases; p=0.005). When performing logistic regression analysis, the best predictive ability was found in the combination of the absence of PPD of LV EF and the sum of B-lines 10 on exercise (relative risk 7.45; 95% confidence interval 2.5521.79; p0.000).
Conclusion. Evaluation of the combination of PPD of LV EF and the results of stress lung ultrasound at discharge in patients with first AMI and successful PCI with no HF in anamnesis allows us to identify a high-risk group for the development of HF in the postinfarction period.


Wilson-like Dirac operators can be written in the form $D=\gamma_\mu\nabla_\mu-\frac {ar}{2} \Delta$. For Wilson fermions the standard two-point derivative $\nabla_\mu^{(\mathrm{std})}$ and 9-point Laplacian $\Delta^{(\mathrm{std})}$ are used. For Brillouin fermions these are replaced by improved discretizations $\nabla_\mu^{(\mathrm{iso})}$ and $\Delta^{(\mathrm{bri})}$ which have 54- and 81-point stencils respectively. We derive the Feynman rules in lattice perturbation theory for the Brillouin action and apply them to the calculation of the improvement coefficient ${c_\mathrm{SW}}$, which, similar to the Wilson case, has a perturbative expansion of the form ${c_\mathrm{SW}}=1+{c_\mathrm{SW}}^{(1)}g_0^2+\mathcal{O}(g_0^4)$. For $N_c=3$ we find ${c_\mathrm{SW}}^{(1)}_\mathrm{Brillouin} =0.12362580(1) $, compared to ${c_\mathrm{SW}}^{(1)}_\mathrm{Wilson} = 0.26858825(1)$, both for $r=1$.


Precipitate microstructures in Mg-2.0Gd-1.2Y-0.75Zn-0.2Zr alloy were investigated and the characteristic and mechanism of microstructure evolution in the alloy were discussed. Specific long-period 14H ordered stacking structure was formed at grain boundary of Mg matrix crystals by solution heat treatment at 773K and metastable β' phase was formed during subsequent aging treatment at 498K in the Zn-added Mg-Gd-Y alloys. These structure and phase exist simultaneously at the peak-aged condition in the microstructure. Precipitate free zone (PFZ) of β' phase does not exist at an interface between a 14H structure and Mg matrix inside the grain, however, PFZ exist near the edge of 14H structure at grain boundary. These results strongly suggest that high diffusion rate of solute atoms at grain boundary promotes the nucleation and growth of 14H structure.


Objective : To compare the safety and efficacy of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and open surgery in the treatment of patients having large kidneystone (>2 cm ). Materials & Methods: This comparative study included 80 patients diagnosed with kidney stone disease admitted in the NIKDU during the period of Jan' to Dec'2009 were divided conveniently into two groups. Intervention was done in the form PCNL(40) and open surgery (40). Clinical outcome like, perioperative complications,duration of surgery, mean hospital stay ,convalescence period, amount of analgesia required to relief pain, stone clearance rate were reviewed and compared between the groups. There was no significant difference in preoperative variables such as age,sex, stone size in cm, stone numbersingle/multiple and stag horn Stone. Results: There were statistically significant difference in the parameters between the groups,( PCNL vs opensurgery[mean ± SD]): duration of operation (min), 97.90±24.89 vs 136.62±23.54, postoperative hospitalstay (days) ,4.77 ± 3.98 vs 9.55 ± 3.65, mean time return to work (days), 3.09 ± 1.21vs 6.25 ± 1.53, ( p value is <0.001). Intraoperative complications like bleeding requiring blood transfusion are significantly lower in PCNL (11 cases 34.1%) than in open surgery( 18 cases 45.0%), (Chi-square = 4.82; p =0.049). The amount of analgesia required to relief pain was significantly reduced in PCNL vs open procedure (no patient required > 2 doses vs 27 patient required 3 or >3 doses ), p value is<0.001. The rate of stone clearance in percutaneous procedure,(25 cases,80%) is approaching to that of open procedure,(34 cases 85%), (p>0.05). Conclusion: PCNL is relatively safe& better treatment option than open surgery in the treatment of large renal calculi, It has almost similar stone free rate at discharge home but has definite advantages of lower morbidity, shorter convalescence and more rapid return to work.


Based on randomized data, neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy has been incorporated into the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) for stage II-III rectal cancer. Factors associated with nonadherence to evidence-based guidelines for neoadjuvant radiotherapy (RT) were examined at dedicated cancer centers. The prospective NCCN Oncology Outcomes Database for Colorectal Cancers was queried for patients with stage II-III rectal cancer who underwent a transabdominal surgical resection between September 2005 and June 2012. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with omission of RT. Among 1199 identified patients, 1119 (93%) received neoadjuvant RT, 51 (4%) did not receive RT, and 29 (2%) received adjuvant RT. Among 51 patients not receiving RT, only 19 (37%) were referred and evaluated by a radiation oncologist. On multivariable analysis, clinical factors associated with not receiving RT included a history of prior pelvic RT (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 23.9; P=.0003), ECOG performance status of 2 or greater (aOR, 11.1; P=.01), tumor distance from the anal verge greater than 10 cm (aOR, 5.4; P=.009), age at diagnosis of 75 years or older (aOR, 4.43; P=.002), body mass index of 25 to 30 kg/m(2) and less than 25 kg/m(2) (aOR, 5.22 and 4.23, respectively; P=.03), and clinical stage II (aOR, 2.27; P=.02). No significant change was seen in RT use according to diagnosis year, nor was any correlation seen with distance to the nearest RT facility. Concordance with NCCN Guidelines for neoadjuvant RT is high among NCCN Member Institutions. After adjusting for clinical characteristics that increase the risk for RT toxicity, including history of pelvic RT and high comorbidity burden/low functional status, the authors found that non-obese patients of advanced age or those with more favorable clinical features were more likely to not receive RT.


Several methods have been developed to label peptides with 18F. However, in general these are laborious and require a multistep synthesis. We present a facile method based on the chelation of 18F-aluminum fluoride (Al18F) by 1,4,7-triazacyclononane-1,4,7-triacetic acid (NOTA). The method is characterized by the labeling of NOTA-octreotide (NOTA-d-Phe-cyclo[Cys-Phe-d-Trp-Lys-Thr-Cys]-Throl (MH+ 1305) [IMP466]) with 18F. Methods: Octreotide was conjugated with the NOTA chelate and labeled with 18F in a 2-step, 1-pot method. The labeling procedure was optimized with regard to the labeling buffer, peptide, and aluminum concentration. Radiochemical yield, specific activity, in vitro stability, and receptor affinity were determined. Biodistribution of 18F-IMP466 was studied in AR42J tumor–bearing mice and compared with that of 68Ga-labeled IMP466. In addition, small-animal PET/CT images were acquired. Results: IMP466 was labeled with Al18F in a single step with 50% yield. The labeled product was purified by high-performance liquid chromatography to remove unbound Al18F and unlabeled peptide. The radiolabeling, including purification, was performed in 45 min. The specific activity was 45,000 GBq/mmol, and the peptide was stable in serum for 4 h at 37°C. Labeling was performed at pH 4.1 in sodium citrate, sodium acetate, 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid, and 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid buffer and was optimal in sodium acetate buffer. The apparent 50% inhibitory concentration of the 19F-labeled IMP466 determined on AR42J cells was 3.6 nM. Biodistribution studies at 2 h after injection showed a high tumor uptake of 18F-IMP466 (28.3 ± 5.2 percentage injected dose per gram [%ID/g]; tumor-to-blood ratio, 300 ± 90), which could be blocked by an excess of unlabeled peptide (8.6 ± 0.7 %ID/g), indicating that the accumulation in the tumor was receptor-mediated. Biodistribution of 68Ga-IMP466 was similar to that of 18F-IMP466. 18F-IMP466 was stable in vivo, because bone uptake was only 0.4 ± 0.2 %ID/g, whereas free Al18F accumulated rapidly in the bone (36.9 ± 5.0 %ID/g at 2 h after injection). Small-animal PET/CT scans showed excellent tumor delineation and high preferential accumulation in the tumor. Conclusion: NOTA-octreotide could be labeled rapidly and efficiently with 18F using a 2-step, 1-pot method. The compound was stable in vivo and showed rapid accretion in somatostatin receptor subtype 2–expressing AR42J tumors in nude mice. This method can be used to label other NOTA-conjugated compounds with 18F.


I provide a characterization of the radiation environment of the inner heliosphere from mid-2009 to present using measurements made by the Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation (CRaTER) aboard the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and modelling provided by the Earth-Moon-Mars Radiation Environment Module (EMMREM). In the course of this study, I analyze solar energetic particle (SEP) radiation in the form of four major solar events that occurred during this time range as well as the evolution of galactic cosmic ray (GCR) modulation over a period in which relatively calm solar conditions have resulted in the highest GCR fluxes measured in the space age. Using CRaTER measurements taken during three major solar events that occurred in 2012, I demonstrate a validation of the online PREDICCS system (Predictions of radiation from REleASE, EMMREM, and Data Incorporating CRaTER, COSTEP, and other SEP measurements), which uses EMMREM to provide near real-time radiation modelling at the Earth, Moon and Mars, finding PREDICCS to be quite accurate in modelling the peak dose rates and total accumulated doses for major solar events. Having demonstrated the accuracy of PREDICCS/EMMREM in modelling SEP events, EMMREM is used to provide an analysis of the potential radiation hazard of the extreme solar event observed by STEREO A on 23 July 2012, an event which has drawn comparisons to the historic Carrington event due to the exceptional size and record speed of the interplanetary coronal mass ejection associated with it. Such an event might be viewed as something like a worst case scenario in terms of the threat of SEP radiation to astronauts, however the evidence shown here suggests that, with the benefit of heavy protective shielding, astronauts would not have been exposed to levels of radiation that approach NASA's permissible exposure limits. These findings add to a mounting set of evidence which suggests that, contrary to conventional wisdom, the largest radiation threat to future manned space missions is not extreme solar events, but GCRs, which represent a constant source of radiation for which shielding is much less effective. With this in mind, CRaTER measurements taken over the course of the LRO mission are used to model the modulation of GCRs over this time period, which is then used as input into a new atmospheric radiation model that has been developed to compute dose rates as a function of altitude in the atmospheres of the Earth and Mars. I compare the modelled dose rates to the nearest available measurements including balloon and aircraft based measurements for the Earth dose rates and measurements made by the Mars Science Laboratory for the Mars dose rates, finding the modelled results to be reasonable. For airline altitudes in particular, the model is able to reproduce measurements made aboard commercial and research aircraft as a part of the Automated Radiation Measurements for Aviation Safety (ARMAS) project to within the uncertainty limits recommended by the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU).


CONTEXT
Fatty liver is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, but whether an increased risk remains in people in whom fatty liver resolves over time is not known.

OBJECTIVE
The objective of the study was to assess the risk of incident diabetes at a 5-year follow-up in people in whom: 1) new fatty liver developed; 2) existing fatty liver resolved, and 3) fatty liver severity worsened over 5 years.

DESIGN AND METHODS
A total of 13,218 people without diabetes at baseline from a Korean occupational cohort were examined at baseline and after 5 years, using a retrospective study design. Fatty liver status was assessed at baseline and follow-up as absent, mild, or moderate/severe using standard ultrasound criteria. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident diabetes at follow-up were estimated after controlling for multiple potential confounders.

RESULTS
Two hundred thirty-four people developed incident diabetes. Over 5 years, fatty liver resolved in 828, developed in 1640, and progressed from mild to moderate/severe in 324 people. Resolution of fatty liver was not associated with a risk of incident diabetes [aOR 0.95 (95% CIs 0.46, 1.96), P = .89]. Development of new fatty liver was associated with incident diabetes [aOR 2.49 (95% CI 1.49, 4.14), P < .001]. In individuals in whom severity of fatty liver worsened over 5 years (from mild to moderate/severe), there was a marked increase in the risk of incident diabetes [aOR 6.13 (2.56, 95% CI 14.68) P < .001 (compared with the risk in people with resolution of fatty liver)].

CONCLUSION
Change in fatty liver status over time is associated with markedly variable risks of incident diabetes.


Surrogacy is one of the most complicated procedures of assisted reproduction. The complexity of the procedure brings many legal problems, the main ones are determination of legal parenthood, enforceability of agreements, registration of the newborn, acceptance of the ways of recruiting a surrogate mother, acceptance of compensation, conditions of approach to the procedure, and circumstances of its implementation. The purpose of this paper is to describe this procedure with respect to criminal law. Considering the cases connected with surrogacy we usually somehow "quench" the results – a child is already here, despite being received in problematic ways, then we shall solve his or her interest. However, this child did not occur by chance, through a - problematic – act of an individual. The child was born because of the possibility of technology, and the application of technology is supervised by an institution. Society has a liability that must clearly delimitate the boundaries and possibilities of the use of technology, and consistently prosecute their possible violation.


Introduction The increasing demand of coffee all over the world has surpassed the supply. This has led to a focused attention by key stakeholders in coffee production. These players have recently introduced agribusiness support based projects aimed at increasing the production of coffee. These projects provide support services on farm advisory services, certification programs, credit facilities and market information. The focus for the programs has been in Africa with a particular attention given to Kenya. Despite this, coffee production in Kenya is steadily declining as farmers are changing their attention from coffee production to other economic activities. The fact that there is a retrogressive production of coffee in presence of these agribusiness support based project raises concern as to whether this project achieve improved coffee production. This therefore necessitates the need to analyse agribusiness support based projects on Kenya's coffee production. The study sought to answer the question of the extent to which advisory services by agribusiness projects facilitative sustainable coffee production, the degree to which certification programs motivate farmers in coffee production, the extent to which credit facilities enhance profitable coffee production and the degree to which provision of market information facilitates better market prices for coffee farmers. The study was of benefit to farmers and all stakeholders in the value chain of coffee as it will provide a critical insight on how farm advisory services can be enhanced through adopted demand driven trainings and clustering of farmers to increase the scope covered by the projects. On certification projects, the study explored the need for participatory approach and offering premiums on certified coffees geared towards farmer's motivation and the need to enhance the effectiveness of credit facilitation on long term basis. The study explored the need to enhance better ways of accessing market information for farmers. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population was coffee farmers in Machakos County. Convenient and census sampling techniques was used to select 2 districts with 100 respondents out of 320 coffee growers drawn from the management committees from various cooperatives. A questionnaire was used as the instrument of data collection. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).


Venous insufficiency of the lower extremities is a common condition and related to various symptoms, including venous ulcers. The effect of venous insufficiency on patients' health-related quality of life is substantial and comparable with other chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Superficial venous reflux, to a greater or lesser extent, will develop in approximately 40% of women and 20% of men during their lifetime. Until the 1990s, high ligation combined with surgical stripping was the gold standard in the treatment of venous insufficiency. Since then, new endothermal techniques, as endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation, have revolutionized the standard of care, due to their excellent results. To minimize damage of surrounding tissue, tumescent anaesthesia is necessary in these techniques. Nonetheless, heat-related complications, such as prolonged pain or nerve injury, may still occur. Mechanochemical endovenous ablation (MOCA) is a innovative technique, combining mechanical abrasion of the endothelium with simultaneous infusion of sclerosant. Because MOCA is a non-thermal technique, the need for tumescence and heat-related complications are abolished. The first part of this thesis is dedicated to studying MOCA. A general overview on MOCA is provided including results of a systematic review of literature. The first results of MOCA in the great (30) and small (50) saphenous veins are evaluated and showed that MOCA is feasible, safe and effective. MOCA treatment leads to excellent short term anatomical and clinical success rates. Partial or complete recanalization might occur in around 10% of cases. A study in 68 patients treated with MOCA (34) or RFA (34), showed that MOCA is associated with significantly less postoperative pain. Early quality of life scores improved in both groups. Due to the anatomical proximity of the sural nerve the treatment of small saphenous veins (SSVs) is known for an increased change of nerve injury. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the treatment of SSVs showed that endothermal ablation leads to the best anatomical success rates. The risk of nerve injury is significant. Although the MOCA technique theoretically should minimize the risk for major complications, the available data was not sufficient to draw conclusions on the role of MOCA in SSV. A protocol for a RCT studying MOCA in SSV compared to endothermal ablation is included in this thesis. The second part of the thesis contains 3 studies on innovations in venous intervention. The first reports on the results of laser ablation in insufficient perforator veins, showing it to be feasible and safe. The anatomical success rate is highly dependable on the amount of energy delivered. The second evaluated a new percutaneous venous closure device, to place a keyring-shape implant around the target vein. Although results are promising, future developments regarding sizing, applications of biomaterials and increasing accuracy in positioning are essential. The final study describes a new deep venous valve concept. Whereas previous valve designs were hampered with thrombotic occlusion, the current single, "spinnaker-shaped" leaflet functioned well and remained patent in a short-term animal experiment. Future studies regarding optimizing leaflet material or coating are on-going.


"Few eighteenth-century songs on American Indian resistance subjects had the extended impact of "The Death Song of the Cherokee Indians". It was first published anonymously, ca. 1780 [also by Longman & Broderip, for the author, at the end of Hunter's Nine Canzonetts for two voices], but the text is by the Scottish-born poet Anne Home Hunter [wife of John Hunter, the surgeon], who later included it in her published collection of poems in 1802. It is not difficult to see why this song became so popular. The rhythms are snappy. The melody has logic, drive, and purpose. A feature that stands out in Hunter's version is the elegant bass line. It is so beautifully tailored that it's almost a singable melody in itself. By 1785 the song had already been published in the United States, and two years later it appeared in Royall Tyler's The Contrast, the first play by an American-born writer known to have been produced onstage. Musicologist John Koegel has found fifty-seven separate printed and manuscript sources of "The Death Song of the Cherokee Indians" in England and the United States dated between 1780 and 1855 (and suggests that there are likely more to be found) (Michael V. Pisani, Imagining Native America in Music, Yale UP, 2005, pp. 53, 57-9). Longman and Broderip were active under that trading name between 1776 and 1798; and as Longman, Lukey, and Co. 26, Harp and Crown, Cheapside c1767-1801."


Current business cycle theory is an application of the general equilibrium theory. This paper presents the business cycle model without using general equilibrium framework. We treat agents risk assessments as their coordinates x on economic space and establish distribution of all economic agents by their risk coordinates. We suggest aggregation of agents and their variables by scales large to compare with risk scales of single agents and small to compare with economic domain on economic space. Such model is alike to transition from kinetic description of multi-particle system to hydrodynamic approximation. Aggregates of agents extensive variables with risk coordinate x determine macro variables as functions of x alike to hydrodynamic variables. Economic and financial transactions between agents define evolution of their variables. Aggregation of transactions between agents with risk coordinates x and y determine macro transactions as functions of x and y and define evolution of macro variables at points x and y. We describe evolution and interactions between macro transactions by hydrodynamic-like system of economic equations. We show that business cycles are described as consequence of the system of economic equations on macro transactions. As example we describe Credit transactions CL(tax,y) that provide Loans from Creditors at point x to Borrowers at point y and Loan-Repayment transactions LR(t,x,y) that describe repayments from Borrowers at point y to Creditors at point x. We use hydrodynamic-like economic equations and derive from them the system of ordinary differential equations that describe business cycle fluctuations of macro Credits C(t) and macro Loan-Repayments LR(t) of the entire economics. The nature of business cycle fluctuations is explained as oscillations of "mean risk" of economic variables on bounded economic domain of economic space.


Research has demonstrated that college students experience stress from sources such as poor self-care habits, educational demands, daily hassles, and perceived control over stressful situations. The present study examined perceived stress, health habits, and daily hassles and uplifts among 135 college freshmen. We hypothesized that students with lower stress levels would be male, would have better self-care habits, would experience fewer minor medical health issues, would have significantly higher academic performance, and would experience fewer daily hassles and more daily uplifts than students who experienced high perceived stress. Strong support was obtained for the hypothesis that students with low perceived stress had better health habits. Students with low perceived stress also experienced significantly fewer hassles and more uplifts per month. There were not any significant effects of perceived stress on grade point average, minor medical issues, or gender. The results could help college freshmen adjust to challenges of college by helping them understand some of the effects of stress and benefits of reducing that stress.


A fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPI) for teicoplanin that uses the TDx Instrument System (Abbott, Irving, Tex.) as an automated analyzer has been developed by Innotron of Oregon Inc. and was evaluated in patients with staphylococcal infections enrolled in a clinical trial of the antibiotic. The assay proved accurate in estimating concentrations of between 5 and 100 mg/liter. The intraassay coefficient of variation was <7.3%, while the interassay variance was <11.6%O against three commercially prepared standards at known concentrations of approximately 5, 35, and 75 mg/liter. Against routinely prepared standards at 10 concentrations between 5 and 100 mg/liter analyzed in a single run, the coefficient of variance did not exceed 4.3%. Compared with bioassay, the FPI demonstrated good correlation in terms of reliability (r = 0.909) in samples containing teicoplanin only and specificity (r = 0.916) in samples containing both teicoplanin and gentamicin. With a turnaround time of 20 min and with only 50 ,Il of serum needed for estimation of the amount ofdrug in a sample, the FPI described here should provide a useful method of teicoplanin measurement in routine diagnostic laboratories.


This is the second edition of "What Will We Do?". "Preparing a School Community to Cope With Crises" is a guidebook for educators and parents who wish to understand the importance of both pre- and post-intervention programs in our schools to assist all parties in coping with crises that arise. The book examines the scope and effects (including the potential benefits and possible risks) of programs that target such issues as loss, illness, death, grief, war, and violence. It presents specific steps that can be taken to help prepare a school community to cope with possible future crises. Today's news has shown us with dramatic effect that a crisis can occur at any time, often without warning. Educators and parents must work together if they wish to help young people, and each other, when such a crisis occurs. "What Will We Do?" is a major step in that direction.


The Unani system of medicine is a comprehensive medical system, which meticulously deals with the states of health and disease. Its holistic approach considers individual in relation to his environment and stresses on health of body, mind and soul. Temperament of a person is given great importance for identifying the most suitable diet and lifestyle for promoting the health of a particular individual. On the basis of Mizaj human beings have been categorized into four qualitative types: Damvi (sanguinous), Safravi (bilious), Balghami (phlegmatic), Saudavi (melancholic).  They were supposed to result from predominant humor in the body. Any change in the temperament of person brings about change in person's state of health. There are some factors like age, place, season, diet and occupation, which are responsible for influencing the temperament of an individual and predispose them to a particular group of diseases similar to the temperament of that individual. Thus, the person of specific temperament becomes prone to a particular group of diseases in different phases of their life and under different climatic conditions. In Unani medicine, different guidelines for different temperaments have been mentioned for promotion and preservation of health. Thus, in this paper authors have highlighted the importance of temperamental approach for the promotion of health and prevention of diseases.


Flatback airfoils show several potential benefits in the design of wind turbine blades. Structurally, the increased trailing-edge thickness offers high resistance to flapwise bending, while aerodynamically, a higher maximum coefficient of lift, as well as better roughness insensitivity, may be achieved. In this work, the design of a flatback airfoil family is performed with a high degree of attention to the appropriate selection of design constraints and objectives. Through the analysis of other airfoils available in the literature, and through sensitivity analyses of several design parameters, the CU-W1-XX airfoil family is designed. The optimization tool used in this work consists of a genetic algorithm in which the airfoil shapes are altered using Bezier curve parameterization. The aerodynamic performance is evaluated using XFOIL while the structural performance is evaluated from the sectional moment of inertia about the chord. In several metrics such as sectional moment of inertia, roughness insensitivity, and lift-to-drag ratio, the CU-W1-XX family is shown to have equal or superior performance as compared with other airfoils, thus proving the capability of the airfoil optimization tool and, more importantly, the value of proper design constraints and objectives.


The stability of the scattering loop is fundamental for coherent random lasing in a dynamic scattering system. In this work, fluorescence of DPP (N, N-di [3-(isobutyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes) propyl] perylene diimide) is scattered to produce RL and we realize the transition from incoherent RL to coherent RL by controlling the Brownian motion of the scatterers (dimer aggregates of DPP) and the stability of scattering loop. To produce coherent random lasers, the loop needs to maintain a stable state within the loop-stable time, which can be determined through controlled Brownian motion of scatterers in the scattering system. The result shows that the loop-stable time is within 5.83 × 10−5 s to 1.61 × 10−4 s based on the transition from coherent to incoherent random lasing. The time range could be tuned by finely controlling the viscosity of the solution. This work not only develops a method to predict the loop-stable time, but also develops the study between Brownian motion and random lasers, which opens the road to a variety of novel interdisciplinary investigations involving modern statistical mechanics and disordered photonics.


One of the provinces in Indonesia that experiences forest and land fires every year is Aceh Province. Aceh Barat District is one of the districts in Aceh Province where forest and land fires occur every dry season. Forest and land fires prevention can be done by utilizing hotspot data for analysis using geographic information systems (GIS). This research aims to analyze the distribution of hotspots and the correlation between rainfall and hotspots as an indicator of the occurrence of forest and land fires in West Aceh Regency in 2014-2019. This research uses MODIS LAPAN hotspots data, land cover distribution maps, peat land distribution maps, administrative maps and rainfall data from BMKG. The correlation between rainfall data and hotspot data was carried out by the bivariate pearson correlation test. The resuls of the research found that there were 576 hotspots in West Aceh Regency from 2014-2019. The district with the highest number of hotspots is in Samatiga District, namely 131 hotspots. The most dominant hotspots are in the peatland cover, as much as 64% and in the swamp scrub land cover area with 126 hotspots. Correlation test results show that rainfall with a negative correlation, that the decrease in rainfall is followed by an increase in hotspots.
Keywords: Aceh Barat, fires, GIS, hotspot, rainfall


Overbooking is a common practice in the air cargo industry because booked and actual demands often differ greatly. As a consequence, in case of excessive overbooking, the overflowing commodities must be reassigned to other flights on the day of departure. We propose a stochastic approach to reoptimizing cargo shipping plans so that the expectation of cargo overflow is minimized. A probability distribution consisting of the mixture of a normal and a constant 0 distribution is introduced to model the show-up rate so that no-show is taken into account. From this mixture distribution, we derive an analytic expression for the expectation of overflow. An approximation of this expression is then used as the objective function of the formulation of an integer programming model to reoptimize an air cargo shipping plan. In a series of simulation experiments, we compare the resulting analytical model with an equivalent scenario-based stochastic linear program. It is found that the analytical model delivers results that are similar to the ones of the scenario-based stochastic program, but with a significant reduction in computation time.


Shared sanitation facilities are often the only feasible option for sanitation provision in informal settlements. When implementing infrastructure for wastewater collection and treatment, information regarding quantities and constituent loadings is required. Up to now, such data are not available for shared sanitation. In order to provide this information, this study focuses on wastewater characteristics of a shared sanitation facility in North Namibia. The input data used for planning are compared with monitoring data. This includes utilization rates, water demand, loads and concentrations of total chemical oxygen demand, total nitrogen, total phosphorus and total dissolved solids. During the survey period, two different tariff levels were tested. Their effect on utilization rates and water demand is outlined. The results obtained from this study are particularly valuable for better planning of shared sanitation facilities, and subsequent wastewater transport, treatment and reuse infrastructures. Future studies should include further aspects and influencing factors such as population density, available income, or the influence of competing facilities.


Climate change projections based on the emission of greenhouse effect gases suggest an increase in the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide, in up to 750 ppm. In this scenario, we have significant changes in plant development, and consequently, in agricultural systems. This study aims to evaluate the interaction between culture (Glycine max) and weed (Amaranthus viridis and Euphorbia heterophylla) in two conditions of CO2, 400 and 800 ppm. The results showed that the coexistence of culture with both weed species resulted in a mutual loss, with decrease in dry mass productivity of culture + weeds, in both conditions of CO2. However, when the culture is grown in association with E. heterophylla, total dry mass of culture + weed was smaller at 800 ppm. Soybean was more aggressive in comparison to the A. viridis in both the concentrations of CO2, but not in relation to the E. heterophylla. Keywords—Plants interaction, increase of [CO2], plants of metabolism C3, Glycine max.