The objectives of this research report on a scenario planning exercise for the SA healthcare sector were to prepare the material that would feed into such a exercise, to document some ideas about how the planning workshops would run, and identify some possible role players in the process. Several items of research regarding the SA healthcare environment are presented, including economic research data and an environmental scan of recent developments in the healthcare arena. In addition, primer material on various futures studies techniques has been prepared. These are deemed to hold the potential to shift the prevalent thinking within the SA healthcare environment. The list of techniques includes scenario planning, systems thinking and causal layered analysis. The set of data presented confirms that there are several critical issues facing the SA healthcare environment. These need to be tackled in a unified way by all players in the industry if the prevailing dynamics that give rise to these issues are to change. Scenario planning is proposed because it creates a forum within which to do so. The effectiveness of futures studies problem solving techniques in addressing these challenges is demonstrated. This is achieved by recognising, for example, that the problems besetting the current industry are, in one sense, structural (from systems thinking) or that perceptions about the issues are seated in mental models which are not necessarily universally-held (from causal layered analysis). Scenario planning is a first step to imagining an alternative future for SA healthcare which is different from the one toward which it is heading by default. As a collaborative planning technique, it also starts to shift the mode of interaction of the various sectors that make up the SA healthcare environment. Instead of the de facto conflict-based adversarial modes of interaction designed to maximise individual interests (e.g. law suits and competitive dynamics), the scenario planning exercise creates a fresh space for co-operation and holistic thinking designed to optimise collective interests. The relationships formed in this safe space often survive well beyond the duration of the scenario planning workshop (as was the case with the Montfleur scenario exercise), thereby adding a new dimension to the systemic operation of the healthcare environment.


Epithelial-mesenchymal interactions play an important role in the control of ameloblasts and odentoblasts dif- ferentiation, and the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are known factors that regulate the differentiation of ameloblasts. We examined the effect of BMP-2 on the expression of the enamel matrix protein genes at the dental epithe- lial cell line. BMP-2 induced a 3- to 4-fold increase in amelogenin and ameloblastin mRNA expression, suggesting that BMP-2 is important for ameloblast differentiation. This finding has potential application in the tissue engineering of tooth re-constructions.


The Isla Sala y Gomez or Motu Motiro Hiva is located 415 km northeast of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and 3420 km from the coast of northern Chile. It is a small oceanic island (2.5 km2) dominated by volcanic rock with very little vegetal cover. Here, we describe the first endemic arachnid for the island, Ariadna motumotirohiva sp. nov. Females are similar to those of Ariadna perkinsi Simon, 1900 from Hawaiʻi and Ariadna lebronneci Berland, 1933 from the Marquesas in the dorsal dark abdominal pattern, but they differentiate from the latter in the anterior receptaculum, promarginal cheliceral teeth and leg IV macrosetae. A recent survey of the arachnid fauna of Rapa Nui, which included Motu Nui and the rocky shores, did not record the presence of the family Segestriidae, neither has it been found during previous surveys. However, it is not possible to discard the possibility of a local extinction on Rapa Nui and survival on Sala y Gomez. This study suggests other endemic terrestrial arthropods could be present on this very small and remote island.


We present measurements of the large-scale cosmic-ray (CR) anisotropies in R.A., using data collected by the surface detector array of the Pierre Auger Observatory over more than 14 yr. We determine the equatorial dipole component, , through a Fourier analysis in R.A. that includes weights for each event so as to account for the main detector-induced systematic effects. For the energies at which the trigger efficiency of the array is small, the "east–west" method is employed. Besides using the data from the array with detectors separated by 1500 m, we also include data from the smaller but denser subarray of detectors with 750 m separation, which allows us to extend the analysis down to ∼0.03 EeV. The most significant equatorial dipole amplitude obtained is that in the cumulative bin above 8 EeV, %, which is inconsistent with isotropy at the 6σ level. In the bins below 8 EeV, we obtain 99% CL upper bounds on d⊥ at the level of 1%–3%. At energies below 1 EeV, even though the amplitudes are not significant, the phases determined in most of the bins are not far from the R.A. of the Galactic center, at αGC = −94°, suggesting a predominantly Galactic origin for anisotropies at these energies. The reconstructed dipole phases in the energy bins above 4 EeV point instead to R.A. that are almost opposite to the Galactic center one, indicative of an extragalactic CR origin.


Morphogenetic and histogenetic changes in the ovaries of Citellus citellus during the postnatal period and hibernation (September- March) at the age of 10, 25, 45 days and 2 to 12 months after birth were studied. Significant cellular and tissue-organoid differentiation processes were established. After birth oogonia enter the prophase I of meiotic division. At the end of the first month, oocytes with enlarged cytoplasm and single layer of satellite cells form the primary follicles. The growing follicles with organizing antrum are formed in the third postnatal month. During the same time, theca foliculi is observed. Between the 3d and the 6th months after birth the authors demonstrate a "stage ox isofolliculia" when the follicles stop undergoing further development. During the winter hibernation, the ovarian follicles continue to grow slowly and at the end of this period, preovulatory follicles are formed. The results reported demonstrate Citellus citellus ovary to be an organ of intensive cell-tissue reconstruction during the postnatal development and hibernation period determined by the ovarian histophysiology, the ovarian steroid hormones production and the hormonal activity of other glands and organs of the endocrine system.


Problem definition: With the rise of renewables and the decline of fossil fuels, electricity markets are shifting toward a capacity mix in which low-cost generators (LCGs) are dominant. Within this transition, policymakers have been considering whether current market designs are still fundamentally fit for purpose. This research analyses a key aspect: the design of real-time imbalance pricing mechanisms. Currently, markets mostly use either single pricing or dual pricing as their imbalance pricing mechanisms. Single-pricing mechanisms apply identical prices for buying and selling, whereas dual-pricing mechanisms use different prices. The recent harmonization initiative in Europe sets single pricing as the default and dual pricing as the exception. This leaves open the question of when dual pricing is advantageous. We compare the economic efficiency of two dual-pricing mechanisms in current practice with that of a single-pricing design and identify conditions under which dual pricing can be beneficial. We also prove the existence of an optimal pricing mechanism. Methodology/results: We first analytically compare the economic efficiency of single-pricing and dual-pricing mechanisms. Furthermore, we formulate an optimal pricing mechanism that can deter the potential exercise of market power by LCGs. Our analytical results characterize the conditions under which a dual pricing is advantageous over a single pricing. We further compare the economic efficiency of these mechanisms with respect to our proposed optimal mechanism through simulations. We show that the proposed pricing mechanism would be the most efficient in comparison with others and discuss its practicability. Managerial implications: Our analytical comparison reveals market conditions under which each pricing mechanism is a better fit and whether there is a need for a redesign. In particular, our results suggest that existing pricing mechanisms are adequate at low/moderate market shares of LCGs but not for the high levels currently envisaged by policymakers in the transition to decarbonization, where the optimal pricing mechanism will become more attractive. Funding: Rodrigo Belo acknowledges funding by Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (UIDB/00124/2020, UIDP/00124/2020 and Social Sciences DataLab – PINFRA/22209/2016), POR Lisboa, and POR Norte (Social Sciences DataLab, PINFRA/22209/2016). Supplemental Material: The e-companion is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2021.0555 .


Protein-DNA interaction is critical for life activities such as replication, transcription, and splicing. Identifying protein-DNA binding residues is essential for modeling their interaction and downstream studies. However, developing accurate and efficient computational methods for this task remains challenging. Improvements in this area have the potential to drive novel applications in biotechnology and drug design. In this study, we propose a novel approach called CLAPE, which combines a pre-trained protein language model and the contrastive learning method to predict DNA binding residues. We trained the CLAPE-DB model on the protein-DNA binding sites dataset and evaluated the model performance and generalization ability through various experiments. The results showed that the AUC values of the CLAPE-DB model on the two benchmark datasets reached 0.871 and 0.881, respectively, indicating superior performance compared to other existing models. CLAPE-DB showed better generalization ability and was specific to DNA-binding sites. In addition, we trained CLAPE on different protein-ligand binding sites datasets, demonstrating that CLAPE is a general framework for binding sites prediction. To facilitate the scientific community, the benchmark datasets and codes are freely available at https://github.com/YAndrewL/clape.


Activation of the Ras/Raf/MEK/MAP kinase pathway is implicated in uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor growth. Inappropriate activation of the RAS pathway can occur through several distinct mechanisms, including activating mutations in Ras and B-raf, or activated growth factor-signaling, cytokines and stress responses. Mutated, oncogenic forms of Ras are found in 50% of colon, 90% of pancreatic, and 30% of lung cancers. Also, B-Raf mutations have been identified in more than 60% of malignant melanomas and from 40-70% of papillary thyroid cancers. MEK, a dual specific kinase, is a key player in this pathway; it is downstream of both Ras and Raf and activates ERK1/2 through phosphorylation of key tyrosine and threonine residues. These data suggest that targeting MEK can inhibit cancer cell signaling mediated by a wide variety of signals, making MEK an attractive target for the treatment of cancer. We have discovered ARRY-162, a novel ATP-uncompetitive inhibitor of MEK 1/2, which is un-competitive with respect to ATP. ARRY-162 has nanomolar activity against purified MEK enzyme (IC50 = 12 nM) and is highly selective. It has been evaluated against 220 serine/threonine and tyrosine kinases with no inhibitory activity observed up to 20 μM. ARRY-162 inhibits both basal and induced levels of ERK phosphorylation in numerous cancer cell lines with IC50s as low as 5 nM. ARRY-162 is especially potent at inhibiting the cell proliferation of mutant B-Raf and Ras cell lines such as HT29, Malme-3M, SK-MEL-2, COLO 205, SK-MEL-28 and A375 (IC50s from 30-250 nM). In vivo, ARRY-162 has demonstrated efficacy in several xenograft tumor models in mice, including HT29, BxPC3, MIA PaCa2, A549, LoVo, Calu6, DU145 and COLO 205. In the HT29 and in the COLO 205 colon carcinoma models, dose-dependent inhibition of tumor growth (up to 75% TGI) was observed at doses ranging from 3 to 30 mg/kg, QD, PO for 21 days. In the Colo-205 colon carcinoma model, significant tumor regressions were observed with 50% partial responses and 13% complete responses at 30 mg/kg, PO, QD. In the BxPC3 pancreatic carcinoma model (which does not harbor either Ras or Raf mutations), tumor growth inhibition (∼70% TGI) and 13% partial responses were seen at doses of 30 mg/kg, QD, PO for 21 days. Consistent with ARRY-1629s mechanism of action, tumor growth inhibition correlates with decreased phospho-ERK levels in tumor xenografts. In addition to its potency against MEK, this compound demonstrates other desirable attributes for development including good physical chemical characteristics, low clearance, medium-to-high Caco-2 permeability and minimal predicted drug-drug interactions. With preclinical efficacy and safety studies on ARRY-162 completed, this compound has entered clinical development for treatment of cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2515.


The extension of the U2 to Stadlau/Aspern is defined by the third phase of construction of Vienna's underground railway network. It was planned in regard to the urban development in the 22nd district of Vienna. The whole planning process is examined and facts, decisions, strategies and acting persons are explained. The planning steps and build-up decisions have been based on the programme of measures, forming part of Vienna's Traffic Concept. This was integrated in the Urban Development Plan which was adopted by Vienna's Municipal Council in 1994. The Municipal Department 18 is engaged in making the plans for the underground. Everybody is aware of the importance of the underground system by ensuring mobility. But how does the planning process work and specially, how does the decision making process of the optimised location line of the U2 work? The complex urban planning process can be handled easier by using means of cost-benefit-ratios. Together with the Republic of Austria, the City Vienna finances the construction of the underground network. Each of the two parts contributes 50 percent for building costs. The extension of the U2 line will be via the Prater, the area of the football stadium and the Donaustadt Bridge into the 22nd district, to Aspernstrase. The location of the line was not agreed on rapidly. There were lots of conflicts concerning decision-making, especially for the connection with the existing lines. (...)(author's abstract)


Less than 2% of human genome has protein-coding ability, while over 90% is transcribed into non-coding RNA (ncRNA). NcRNA can be divided into small ncRNAs ( 200 nucleotides). Small ncRNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and others have been investigated in recent years and recognized as key players in regulating cellular processes and diseases, including cancer. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) attracted increasing attention in recent years as researchers have revealed their crucial roles as regulators in embryogenesis, stem cell biology, and development. Furthermore, growing evidence indicates that dysregulation of lncRNAs is involved in cancer, and the regulatory functions and mechanisms of lncRNAs in human carcinomas have begun to emerge. Colon cancer-associated transcript 2 (CCAT2) is a lncRNA transcribed from human 8q24 gene desert, which has been recently found to be deregulated in several tumor types. In this review, we will briefly analyse the roles and mechanisms of lncRNAs CCAT2 involvement in human cancer, and we will discuss the future perspectives for research and clinical applications.


OF PROJECT Proposing a Center for Leadership and Creativity Leadership and creativity are vital skills for everyone to have in what is now a very competitive and dynamic world. Whether in business or in personal life, these skills can help individuals reach their highest potential. Employers, especially, are finding it increasingly difficult to find employees with these important skills. Academic institutions are simply not preparing students (i.e., future employees) well enough. This is an issue that needs to be remedied as soon as possible. In this project, I am proposing a Center for Leadership and Creativity to be housed on the Western Oregon University campus in Monmouth, Oregon, under the advisement of the future Organizational Leadership Department. This center will address many of these needs for students, faculty, staff, and community members by providing resources, training, and potentially consulting services in leadership and creativity. The goal of this center will be to begin bridging this gap by preparing individuals with the necessary leadership and creativity skills to succeed in their future professional (and personal) endeavors. It is also the goal of this center to become a well-known, well-respected academic and practitioner resource—the first of its kind—in this region of the state of Oregon. The final outcome of this project will be a comprehensive, institution-branded, professional, business-style report to be presented to the Western Oregon University administration and other deciding bodies.


Recently, an alternative inverse-analysis approach was proposed to obtain the material parameters of the advanced yield criteria by employing tensile and cup drawing tests [1]. In this paper, the applicability of this strategy will be investigated for a mild steel grade by means of cruciform, plane strain tension and hydraulic bulge tests. Other than this, the impact of the strain rate on the hydraulic bulge tests will be one another aspect of this work.


Association rule mining is the process of finding frequent patterns and associations between set of objects from information repositories. Finding optimized techniques for generating association rules from large repositories has become a major area of study. Apriori algorithm is a simple algorithm which is used for mining frequent item sets. The FP-growth algorithm on the other hand works as a solution to the problem for long frequent patterns to searching for shorter ones recursively. The output of FP-Growth is a FP Tree in the end. The current work focuses on using Simulated Annealing technique on both algorithms for optimized Association Rule Mining. The results have been also discussed in the end and analysis has also been generated.


Alloxan diabetic rats are considered unable to synthesize liver glycogen because of a low activity of glycogen synthetase. The present report shows, however, that livers of alloxan diabetic rats have activities of the I-form of glycogen synthetase intermediate between those of starved normal or adrenalectomized rats, and can synthesize substantial amounts of liver glycogenafter refeeding of a chow diet or administration of hydrocortisone. Neither glycogenic procedure, increased the activity of glycogen synthetase in livers of starved alloxan diabetic rats. In contrast, both normal and adrenalectomized rats had increased activities of the I-form of glycogen synthetase three hours after refeeding.

After twenty-four hours of access to food, normal and adrenalectomized rats had liver glycogen contents similar to those found in nonstarved rats, and a markedly decreased activity of synthetase I. Alloxan diabetic rats refed for twenty-four hours also had lowered activity of synthetase I, but the concentration of glycogen was not higher than that found after three hours of refeeding.

These results show that livers of alloxan diabetic rats have sufficient glycogen synthetase activity to synthesize glycogen rapidly, but the ability to accumulate larger amounts of glycogen is limited by an alteration in the control of glycogen synthetase activity by the content of liver glycogen. Also, the effect of hydrocortisone on the activity of glycogen synthetase in normal or adrenalectomized rats is the result of insulin release; however, not all the changes in glycogen metabolism produced by adrenalectomy can be explained by insulin deficiency.


The aim of this study is to empirically analyse the linkages among domestic investment, foreign direct investment (FDI), trade, interest rate and economic growth in the ASEAN-5 regions in the period 1970-2012. The Johansen-Juselius cointegration approach is applied to examine the long-run relationship and the Granger causality approach is applied to evaluate the causal linkages among the variables. The results confirm the existence of long-term causal links between domestic investment and FDI for the ASEAN-5. This means that collaboration of domestic and foreign investors is essential as the development of domestic firms contributes to further participation by multinational investors. We also reveal that domestic investment and FDI are growth enhancing and their impact is felt in both short- and long-run in the majority of the ASEAN-5 markets, indicating that these three variables are interrelated since they could be attracted to the growing economies. Thus, economic policies that aim at improving and promoting both local and foreign enterprises are indeed necessary in stimulating economic growth in the ASEAN-5 nations.


Three-dimensional reconstruction of an organ requires a coordinated sequence of cross-sectional scans. In ultrasound this can be solved by rotating the scan plane horizontally or vertically. Two scan heads have been built, one to rotate the plane around a horizontal, the second around a vertical axis. There are two ways to reconstruct the scans taken by ultrasound into a three-dimensional image: --to contour the surface of the organ in each scan and to reconstruct these contours to a ring-shaped structure. This procedure needs a lot of time; moreover, contouring must be performed via cursor on the screen. --calculate a transparent image of the organ. To obtain the best spatial image by the "transparent method", the image must be moved on the screen. Both methods of reconstruction are shown and compared in this paper. First experiences show that they can be applied in tumour diagnostic and in the diagnosis of malformations in early pregnancy. Further clinical studies will have to prove this.


Abstract Background: Vitamin D and its receptor (VDR) have important roles in perinatal lung development. The objective of this study was to investigate the possible association between VDR FokI and TaqI polymorphism and development of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants. Method: A total of 173 premature infants <34 weeks: 82 with RDS and 91 without RDS were enrolled. Genotyping of VDR polymorphisms was assayed by real-time PCR. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels were measured by ELISA in blood samples that were obtained at the time of admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. Results: Gestational age (GA) was significantly lower in the RDS group compared with the controls. In univariate analysis, VDR TaqI CT and CC genotypes were associated with the increased risk of RDS (OR = 3.264, p = .001, 95% CI = 1.597–6.672 and OR = 5.222, p < .001, 95% CI = 2.165–12.597, respectively); while VDR FokI showed no association with RDS. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, variant TaqI genotype increased risk of RDS (p = 0.001, OR = 3.464, 95% CI = 1.655–7.251) independent of gestational age, birth weight and gender. 25-OHD levels in the RDS group were significantly lower compared with those in without the RDS group (p = .002). Serum 25-OHD levels were not significantly different among the different FokI and TaqI genotypes in RDS group. Conclusions: This is the first report of association of VDR polymorphism with RDS development in preterm neonates. Current study suggests that VDR TaqI polymorphism may be involved in predisposition to RDS in premature neonates. Further studies are needed to assess the contribution of vitamin D and VDR signaling to the pathogenesis RDS


: Diagnoses were made by ultrasound in 73 out of 80 cases with unclear thorax x-ray. One case was misinterpreted, no diagnoses were possible in 6 cases. Pleural effusion or opacities reaching the pleura are necessary to perform ultrasound examination. Sonographic findings in pleural or pulmonary changes are discussed and correlated with pathological anatomical findings. Additional information can be obtained by sonography in pleural lesions and in pulmonary lesions masked by pleural effusion. Atelectases can be differentiated from pneumonia, and tumours can be identified in peritumorous pneumonia or atelectases.


In this paper, we explore the inter-individual diversity in fertility among women in Austria for the female birth cohorts 1917-1961. Comparative studies revealed that all Western countries have witnessed a decline in the concentration of reproduction during the 20th century, a trend that has reversed for the most recent cohorts which have reached the end of their reproductive period. This reversal, mainly triggered by an increase in childlessness, has been hardly perceptible in Austria and limited to urban municipalities. Changes in fertility and concentration have followed very different trajectories by educational attainment as well as by the type of municipality in which women lived at age 15. Within educational categories, we found large differentials by profession and intergenerational educational mobility. A consequence of the concentration of reproduction is that the level of cohort fertility differs from the average sibship size seen from the children's perspective. In the Austrian case, in contrast to the pronounced fertility differentials by educational attainment, the average sibship size experienced by children became almost independent of parents' education. In contrast to the negative correlation between fertility and concentration found in earlier studies for the first demographic transition and the baby boom, the fertility level and concentration moved in the same direction, and did so for an extended time period following the baby boom, accelerating changes from the children's perspective.


M-stars are the most common hosts of planetary systems in the Galaxy. Protoplanetary disks around M-stars thus offer a prime opportunity to study the chemistry of planet-forming environments. We present an ALMA survey of molecular line emission toward a sample of five protoplanetary disks around M4-M5 stars (FP Tau, J0432+1827, J1100-7619, J1545-3417, and Sz 69). These observations can resolve chemical structures down to tens of AU. Molecular lines of CO, CO, CO, C2H, and HCN are detected toward all five disks. Lines of H2CO and DCN are detected toward 2/5 and 1/5 disks, respectively. For disks with resolved CO, C2H, HCN, and H2CO emission, we observe substructures similar to those previously found in disks around solartype stars (e.g., rings, holes, and plateaus). C2H and HCN excitation conditions estimated interior to the pebble disk edge for the bright disk J1100-7619 are consistent with previous measurements around solar-type stars. The correlation previously found between C2H and HCN fluxes for solar-type disks extends to our M4-M5 disk sample, but the typical C2H/HCN ratio is higher for the M4-M5 disk sample. This latter finding is reminiscent of the hydrocarbon enhancements found by previous observational infrared surveys in the innermost (<10AU) regions of M-star disks, which is intriguing since our disk-averaged fluxes are heavily influenced by flux levels in the outermost disk, exterior to the pebble disk edge. Overall, most of the observable chemistry at 10-100AU appears similar for solar-type and M4-M5 disks, but hydrocarbons may be more abundant around the cooler stars.


The CXCL12/CXCR4 system may be important in carcinoma. Expression of the a‐chemokine SDF‐lα (stromal cell derived factor‐lα)/CXCL12 mRNA is reduced in many carcinomas, yet its tissue protein expression may guide metastasis. Here we first compare the mRNA and protein expression of CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 in human liver, hepatocellular carcinoma, and malignant cell lines, and then assess cell cycle variation in CXCR4 expression. CXCR4 mRNA was present in most normal human tissues and malignant cell lines; it was only marginally reduced in hepatomas, while CXCL12 was markedly reduced, P<0.0001. Immuno‐histochemical staining of adjacent non‐malignant liver showed regional CXCR4 cytoplasmic and cell‐surface staining, limited to those hepatocytes around the central vein, a distribution resembling that of CXCL12. CXCL12 protein was not present in hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vivo, nor was cytoplasmic CXCR4 staining; nuclear CXCR4 protein expression in some malignant hepatocytes and CXCR4 staining of capillary endothelial cells around tumor cells were noted. In some malignant cell lines that had no CXCL12 on northern blots CXCL12 was weakly detectable by RT‐PCR or protein staining in the cytoplasm of a few cells. With a view to future manipulation of CXCL12/CXCR4 expression and growth we noted that in HT‐29 cells CXCR4 protein expression was less on confluent than on non‐confluent cells and varied during the cell cycle. Higher expression was associated most closely with the percentage of cells in the S‐phase and inversely with the percentage of cells in the G1‐phase. Treatment of HT‐29 cells with butyrate reduced CXCR4 cell surface expression and reduced the percentage of cells in S‐phase. In summary, CXCL12 protein expression parallels its mRNA, being markedly reduced in malignant cell lines and hepatomas; in liver, the regional distributions of CXCL12 and cytoplasmic CXCR4 are similar; finally, in HT‐29, CXCR4 expression correlates with the S‐phase of the cell cycle and is reduced during butyrate‐induced differentiation.


Computer simulation techniques of textile forms already represent an important tool for textile and garment designers, since they offer numerous advantages, such as quick and simple introduction of changes while developing a model in comparison with conventional techniques. Therefore, the modeling and simulation of textile forms will always be an important issue and challenge for the researchers, since close‐to‐reality models are essential for understanding the performance and behavior of textile materials. This chapter deals with computer simulation of different textile forms. In the introductory part, it reviews the development of complex modeling and simulation techniques related to different textile forms. The main part of the chapter focuses on study of the fabric and fused panel drape by using the finite element method and on development of some representative textile forms, above all, on functional and protective clothing for persons who are sitting during performing different activities. Computer simulation techniques and scanned 3D body models in a sitting posture are used for this purpose. Engineering approaches to textile forms' design for particular purposes, presented in this chapter, show benefits and limitations of specific 3D body scanning and computer simulation techniques and outline the future research challenges.


Difficult intubation is a term used when insertion of the endotracheal tube with conventional laryngoscopy technique requires more than 10 minutes or greater than three attempts. This study sought to determine the predictive value of two commonly used tests; Mallampati test vs. Upper Lip Bite Test (ULBT). A cross-sectional study conducted on 196 patients aged 18-60 years in lady reading hospital Peshawar presented for elective surgeries planned for general anaesthesia and requiring endotracheal intubation were included during March 2018 to May 2018. Both tests (Mallampati and Upper lip bite test) were performed on each sample. In the total 196 participant 180 (91.8%) were found easy cases and 16 (8.2%) were difficult cases. Out of 16 (8.2%) difficult cases 5 (31.3%) difficult cases were underclass III Upper Lip Bite Test (ULBT) which are true positive. From Modified Mallampati Test 8 (50%) were attributed to MMT class III which is 21.1% of total class III and 3 cases (18.8% of total difficult cases) with MMT class IV which is 75% of MMT class IV are both true positive. During anaesthesia and intubation, most common cause of death and brain damage is encounter because of difficult intubation. In this study, we have performed two tests i.e. ULBT and MMT on total of 196 patients, out of which 16 (8.2%) were found difficult intubation which is in the range (0.5- 17.5%) mention in the previous studies. The study has shown most of the difficult were predicted incorrectly. Most cases resulted in difficult intubation, which were predicted easily by two tests (Criteria set by Hoda et al.), so to only rely on ULBT and MMT for predictive measure is not standard.


The remarkable hot R Coronae Borealis (RCB) star DY Cen is revealed to be the first and only binary system to be found among the RCB stars and their likely relatives, including the extreme helium stars and the hydrogen-deficient carbon stars. Radial velocity determinations from 1982 to 2010 have shown that DY Cen is a single-lined spectroscopic binary in an eccentric orbit with a period of 39.67 days. It is also one of the hottest and most H-rich member of the class of RCB stars. The system may have evolved from a common envelope to its current form.


The integration of ecological niche modelling into phylogeographic analyses has allowed for the identification and testing of potential refugia under a hypothesis‐based framework, where the expected patterns of higher genetic diversity in refugial populations and evidence of range expansion of nonrefugial populations are corroborated with empirical data. In this study, we focus on a montane‐restricted cryophilic harvestman, Sclerobunus robustus, distributed throughout the heterogeneous Southern Rocky Mountains and Intermontane Plateau of southwestern North America. We identified hypothetical refugia using ecological niche models (ENMs) across three time periods, corroborated these refugia with population genetic methods using double‐digest RAD‐seq data and conducted population‐level phylogenetic and divergence dating analyses. ENMs identify two large temporally persistent regions in the mid‐latitude highlands. Genetic patterns support these two hypothesized refugia with higher genetic diversity within refugial populations and evidence for range expansion in populations found outside hypothesized refugia. Phylogenetic analyses identify five to six genetically divergent, geographically cohesive clades of S. robustus. Divergence dating analyses suggest that these separate refugia date to the Pliocene and that divergence between clades pre‐dates the late Pleistocene glacial cycles, while diversification within clades was likely driven by these cycles. Population genetic analyses reveal effects of both isolation by distance (IBD) and isolation by environment (IBE), with IBD more important in the continuous mountainous portion of the distribution, while IBE was stronger in the populations inhabiting the isolated sky islands of the south. Using model‐based coalescent approaches, we find support for postdivergence migration between clades from separate refugia.


Understanding the social and environmental causes of cancer in the United States, particularly in marginalized communities, is a major research priority. Population-based cancer registries are essential for advancing this research, given their nearly complete capture of incident cases within their catchment areas. Most registries limit the release of address-level geocodes linked to cancer outcomes to comply with state health departmental regulations. These policies ensure patient privacy, uphold data confidentiality, and enhance trust in research. However, these restrictions also limit the conduct of high-quality epidemiologic studies on social and environmental factors that may contribute to cancer burden. Geomasking refers to computational algorithms that distort locational data to attain a balance between effectively "masking" the original address location while faithfully maintaining the spatial structure in the data. We propose that the systematic deployment of scalable geomasking algorithms could accelerate research on social and environmental contributions across the cancer continuum by reducing measurement error bias while also protecting privacy. We encourage multidisciplinary teams of registry officials, geospatial analysts, cancer researchers, and others engaged in this form of research to evaluate and apply geomasking procedures based on feasibility of implementation, accuracy, and privacy protection to accelerate population-based research on social and environmental causes of cancer.


Affordable housing locations in metropolitan cities are usually assessed by rental cost or mortgage payment relative to income. Affordable housing locations are also influenced by locational characteristics such as distance from public transportation, service centres, city centre and employment centres. Once the costs of locational amenities such as public transport and basic services are focused in, rental price or median house price is increased, sometimes making these locations unaffordable. This paper develops a conceptual framework of living cost to income approach to examine relative changes in affordable housing locations in Melbourne. The conceptual framework is a method to identify changes in affordable housing locations but it also identifies as policy implications of living cost to income approach of analysing housing affordability in Melbourne as well as in other large metropolitan cities in Australia.


To compare steady-state glutamine turnover using nitrogen, carbon, and hydrogen tracers and to test the validity of monocompartmental equations to determine plasma glutamine turnover under non-steady-state conditions, we infused 10 normal postabsorptive volunteers simultaneously with [3,4-3H]glutamine, [2-15N]glutamine, and [U-14C]glutamine for 4 h to isotopic steady state. Eight of the ten subjects were subsequently infused in a stepwise fashion with exogenous glutamine. Plasma glutamine enrichment and specific activities fit a monoexponential model well (r = 0.89, 0.92, and 0.92 for [2-15N]-, [U-14C]-, and [3,4-3H]glutamine, respectively). Volumes of distribution for each tracer (362 +/- 58, 433 +/- 51, and 446 +/- 63 ml/kg) and the transfer rate constants (0.0224 +/- 0.0020, 0.0222 +/- 0.0020, and 0.0240 +/- 0.0023 min(-1)) for [2-15N]-, [U-14C]-, and [3,4-3H]glutamine, respectively, were not significantly different from one another. However, turnover of glutamine determined with [3,4-3H]glutamine (6.14 +/- 0.54 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1)) exceeded that determined with [U-14C]glutamine (5.72 +/- 0.541 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1); P < 0.03), which in turn exceeded that determined with [2-15N]glutamine (4.67 +/- 0.39 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1), P < 0.01). The monocompartmental non-steady-state equations of both DeBodo et al. (DeBodo, R., R. Steele, A. Dunn, and J. Bishop. Rec. Prog. Horm. Res. 19: 445-448, 1963) and Finegood et al. (Finegood, D., R. Bergman, and M. Vranic. Diabetes 36: 914-924, 1987) yielded acceptable approximations of predicted rates of glutamine plasma appearance with deviations from predicted rates from 0.2 to 1.6% (Finegood et al.) and from 0.1 to 8.2% (DeBodo et al.). Use of a 0.75 pool fraction most closely approximated predicted rates.


At present, there is an almost universal consensus that the linguistic doctrine of logical necessity is grotesque. This paper explores avenues for rehabilitating a limited version of the doctrine, according to which the special status of analytic statements like 'All vixens are female' is to be explained by reference to language. Far from being grotesque, this appeal to language has a respectable philosophical pedigree and chimes with common sense, as Quine came to realize. The problem lies in developing it in a way that avoids the powerful objections facing previous versions of the linguistic doctrine. I argue tentatively that this can be done by reconciling Wittgenstein's claim that such statements have a normative role with Carnap's concession that they are true.


Arteriovenous fistulas of the placenta are extremely rare in singleton pregnancies and, to our knowledge, have not previously been reported in twin gestations. We describe a case of an arteriovenous fistula of the placenta in a diamniotic-monochorionic twin pregnancy complicated by twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). The arteriovenous fistula was demonstrated by color-coded vascular injection studies of the placenta. We speculate that the hemodynamic effects of the fistula may have contributed to the refractoriness of the TTTS to serial amniodrainages and laser ablation of communicating intertwin vessels.


We present a character-based model for joint segmentation and POS tagging for Chinese. The bidirectional RNN-CRF architecture for general sequence tagging is adapted and applied with novel vector representations of Chinese characters that capture rich contextual information and lower-than-character level features. The proposed model is extensively evaluated and compared with a state-of-the-art tagger respectively on CTB5, CTB9 and UD Chinese. The experimental results indicate that our model is accurate and robust across datasets in different sizes, genres and annotation schemes. We obtain state-of-the-art performance on CTB5, achieving 94.38 F1-score for joint segmentation and POS tagging.


Most nature-based tourism involves private companies in public protected areas. Most of these operate under a simple concession permit, but more complex partnerships are being introduced. Visitor infrastructure, and some tours, are also provided directly by public agencies on public land. Tourism products, generally private, can also operate very successfully as commercial ventures in private protected areas. This form of partnership has a long history in Europe, and is used widely in Subsaharan Africa and South and Central America, and increasingly in North America. It has been little used to date in Australia or Asia, although there are one or two outstanding examples. Crowding is increasing in public protected areas in these countries, however, and commercial tours are coming into increasing competition with private recreational users, non-profit groups and public tours. Private tour operators will therefore need to establish additional protected areas, in partnership either with private landholders, or public land management agencies such as state forests.


Hall Eect Imaging (HEI) is a method used to image conductivity distribution of a biological body. HEI benefits from the interaction of ultrasound with a static magnetic field to generate velocity current density distribution inside the body. Due to the velocity current density, a resultant voltage is sensed by electrodes attached on surface of the body and used for reconstructing the conductivity distribution. In this study, the feasibility of HEI technique using linear phased array transducer is investigated by numerical studies. A model of 16-element linear phased array transducer is used to benefit from electronic properties of directivity and steerability of linear phased array transducer. In addition, a numerical model of breast and tumor medium is formed to analyze the multiphysics solution which couples acoustics and electromagnetic fields. For image reconstruction, Truncated Singular Value Decomposition method is used with dierent signal-to-noise ratio values.


The paleoclimate and paleolimnological history of several Arctic regions remains poorly known. This is the casefor the area around Nettilling Lake (Baffin Island, Nunavut), the largest lake of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.To reconstruct the past environmental history of this area, a highly innovative multi-proxy approach combiningphysical, magnetic, chemical and biological properties preserved in lake sediments was used. One particular goalof this study was to investigate the possible coupling between sedimentation processes observed in the lake andmelt rates of nearby Penny Ice Cap.A 1-m long sediment core was retrieved from a small bay in the northeastern part of Nettilling Lake duringthe summer of 2010. This sampling area was chosen based on the hypothesis that incoming glacial meltwatersfrom Penny Ice Cap would leave a strong climate-modulated signal that would be reflected in the sedimentarysequence. The core was analyzed by both non-destructive (X-radiography (X-ray), microfluorescence-X (-XRF),magnetic susceptibility) and destructive (Loss On Ignition, grain size, water content, thin sections, diatoms)techniques. Radiometric AMS 14C and 210Pb/137Cs age determinations, as well as paleomagnetic measurements,were used to develop the core chronology, yielding an estimated bottom age of approximately 1365 AD.The sedimentation rate (0.15 cm.yr-1) in Nettilling Lake was found to be high compared to other Arctic lakes,due to inputs of highly turbid meltwaters from Penny Ice Cap with high suspended sediment loads. Significantcorrelations were found between geochemical profiles of elements linked to detrital inputs (Si, Ti, K, Ca) and meltrates from Penny Ice Cap since the 19th century. This suggests that variations in detrital elements in NettillingLake sediments might be used as an indirect indicator of regional climate fluctuations (e.g., summer temperatures)that determine glacier melt rates.


A content delivery network (CDN), as a distributed network architecture, enhances efficient delivery of content. The interconnection of different CDNs (CDNi) further improves efficiency and the experience of end users. As another distributed network with high availability and high performance, a peer-to-peer (P2P) network can provide efficient resource sharing. To combine the advantages of the two networks, we propose a hybrid CDNi-P2P architecture, along with trust management models to achieve more efficient content delivery. In CDNi-P2P architecture, end users can obtain the requested content from the nearest CDN edge server, and can also share these contents with other users in the same domain as a P2P network. After the transactions, users can rate each other based on the reputation evaluation method adopted in the system. For some mobile users, they can move among different domains and share the contents who have with the end users in different system. In general, different systems adopt different reputation evaluation standards. This leads to disparate trust values for mobile users in different systems. Based on the architecture, we propose two trust models to solve this problem: a local trust model and a cross-domain trust model. To evaluate reputation more effectively and accurately, we also propose a search algorithm for the trust model called the non-redundant indirect trust search algorithm (NRIT-SA). Using the proposed trust models, a mobile user can transform his/her local trust into mobile trust in a new domain. We thus avoid disparate trust values for a single user in different domains and improve the availability of the content possessed by mobile users as they move among different domains.


There is much current interest in publishing and viewing databases as XML documents. The general benefits of this approach follow from the popularity of XML and the tool set available for visualizing and processing information encoded in this universal standard. In this paper, we explore the additional and unique benefits achieved by this approach on temporal database applications. We show that XML views combined with XQuery can provide surprisingly effective solutions to the problem of supporting historical queries on past content of database relations and their evolution. Indeed, using XML, the histories of database relations can be naturally represented by temporally grouped data models. Thus, we identify mappings from relations to XML that are most conducive to modeling and querying database histories, and show that temporal queries that would be very difficult to express in SQL can be easily expressed in standard XQuery. Then, we turn to the problem of supporting efficiently the storage and the querying of relational table histories. We present an experimental study of the pros and cons of using native XML databases, versus using traditional databases, where the XML-represented histories are supported as views on the historical tables.


Overdose of paracetamol (PCM) will cause liver injury through free radical activity. Morinda citrifolia extract was found to reduce the oxidative stress in many pathological conditions. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of polysaccharide rich fraction (PS) of M.citrifolia as hepatoprotective agent based on the assessment of liver function test, oxidative stress and liver morphology changes. Male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly into six groups of control, PS. M.citrifolia 400mg/kg (PS400), PCM, PS.M.citrifolia (200mg/kg)+PCM (PS200+PCM), PS.M.citrifolia (400mg/kg)+PCM (PS400+PCM) and silymarin+PCM. Supplementation was given for seven consecutive days of forced oral and one hour after the last supplementation, induction of liver injury was done by given single dose of PCM (2g/kg) orally. Following 48 hours, all rats were sacrificed, plasma and liver sample were taken immediately. Research findings showed levels of alanin aminotransaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and total bilirubin in plasma was significantly (p 0.05) compared with PCM group. Pretreatment of PS.M.citrifolia also significantly (p<0.05) increased glutathione (GSH) level, malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl concentration and activity of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in hepatic tissue compared with PCM group. Histological observation showed both PS.M.citrifolia treated groups prevent disruption of normal liver cells architecture induced by PCM.These data suggest that polysaccharide rich fraction M.citrifolia has the therapeutic potential as hepatoprotective agent against PCM induce liver injury.


Sustainability is an emerging issue as a direct consequence of the population increase in the world. Urban transport systems play a crucial role in maintaining sustainability. Recently, sustainable urban transportation has become a major research area. Most of these studies propose evaluation methods that use simulation tools to assess the sustainability of different transportation policies. Despite all studies, there seems to be lack of mathematical programming models to determine the optimal policies. Conventional mathematical programming techniques have been used in several transportation problems such as toll pricing and traffic assignment problems. To demonstrate the possible applications of mathematical programming within sustainability, we propose a bi-level structure for several optimization models that incorporate the measurement of gas emissions throughout a traffic network. The upper level of the problem represents the decisions of transportation managers who aim to make the transport systems sustainable, whereas the lower level problem represents the decisions of the network users that are assumed to choose their routes to minimize their total travel cost. By using emission factor tables provided by several institutions, we determine the emission functions in terms of traffic flow to reflect the real emission values in case of congestion. Proposed emission functions are plugged into different proposed mathematical programming models that incorporate different policies or actions for sustainability. Among the incorporated policies are toll pricing, district pricing and capacity enhancement. We conduct a thorough computational study with the proposed models on a testing network by a state-of-the-art solver. The thesis ends with a thorough discussion of the solution effort as well as the interpretation of the results.


A new burner configuration for a compact fuel-cell reformer with a high-temperature air combustion concept was studied. The burner was computationally designed for a 40 Nm3/hr hydrogen-generating reformer using natural gas-steam reforming method. In order to satisfy the primary requirements for designing a reformer burner (uniform distribution of temperature along the fuel processor walls and minimum heat losses from the reformer), the features of the present burner configuration included 1) a self-regenerative burner for an exhaust-gas-recirculation to apply for the high-temperature air combustion concept, and 2) an annular-type shield for protecting direct contact of flame with the processor walls. For the present design conditions, the predicted temperature distributions along the processor walls were found uniform within 100 K variation. Thus, the present burner configuration satisfied the requirement for reducing temperature gradients along the processor walls, and consequently demonstrated that the high-temperature air combustion concept could be applied to the practical fuel reformers for use of fuel cells. The predicted uniform temperature distributions along the processor walls were experimentally demonstrated for a test burner.


A facile solvent- and catalyst-free method for the synthesis of a series of new hydroxylated 2,4,6-trisubstituted pyridines under microwave irradiation was developed. The expected products were obtained through a simplified purification process without protection of the hydroxyl group. UV-Vis and fluorescence spectra of these conjugated multi-hydroxyl compounds were also investigated.


This paper investigates the properties of central or core political blogs. They can be located as clusters of blogs whose members have many incoming links. Other blogs form clouds around them in the sense that they link the core blogs. A case study records Greek political blogs and their incoming links reported through their blogrolls. The adjacency matrix from the blogs' social network is analyzed and clusters are located. Three of them, those with the larger numbers of incoming links, may be considered to be central. Next, four measures of influence are used to test the influence of the central blogs. The findings suggest that there are many kinds of central blogs, influential and non-influential, and high influence does not always involve high hyperlinking.


Until recently, a long-standing assumption in the field of child language acquisition research was that parents do not correct the grammatical errors of their children. While consensus now exists that potentially corrective responses are often supplied, controversy persists as to whether the child can identify and exploit such information in practice. To address these issues, this study adopts the contrast theory of negative input as a framework for analysis (Saxton 1995). In this theory, two distinct kinds of corrective input are identified, termed negative evidence and negative feedback, respectively. The corrective potential of each category was investigated by examining the immediate effects of each on the grammaticality of child speech. A longitudinal corpus of naturalistic data (49 hours) from a single child was analysed with respect to 11 grammatical categories. The effects of negative input were compared with two non-corrective sources of input, namely positive input and adult move-ons. It was found that grammatical forms were more frequent in child speech following negative evidence and negative feedback than either of the two non corrective sources of input. In light of these and related findings, it is argued that corrective input may well prove important in explanations for how the child eventually retreats from error to attain a mature system of grammar.


Even though, the flux distribution at joints of stacked type transformer cores has been investigated thoroughly many issues remain unclear in the case of wound transformer cores. The paper addresses this lack of information by longitudinal and normal flux measurements at step-lap joints of Si-Fe wound cores. Flux measurements are verified by an original finite element analysis where the necessary excitation is performed by means of a pseudo-source. The advantage of the proposed technique is the accurate estimation of the flux distribution at step-lap joints, with a two dimensional model of simple geometry and low computational cost, by using any commercial finite element code.


As endoscopists we frequently encounter patients on anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs. In these cases we have to balance the risks of discontinuation of these drugs, ie, thrombosis, versus the potentially increased risks of haemorrhage associated with endoscopy if these drugs are continued. There is also the risk of spontaneous gastrointestinal haemorrhage while anticoagulated. Fortunately, we have had useful guidance from national and international organisations.1–3 There have, however, been very few high quality studies on the use of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents in patients undergoing endoscopy, and consequently the evidence base for much of the advice in these guidelines has been limited. The basic recommendations of these guidelines have remained similar since the American guidelines published in 2002,4 and there have been no published data to challenge these. Indeed, there have been subsequent studies which support some recommendations which were essentially based on expert opinion.

Previous guidelines for anticoagulants relate to the use of warfarin, either continuing it for low-risk (diagnostic) endoscopic procedures, or discontinuing it for high-risk (therapeutic) endoscopic procedures. In …


The clinical benefits of statins are strongly related to their low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering properties. However, because mevalonic acid (MVA), the product of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-3-glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase reaction, is the precursor not only of cholesterol but also of nonsteroidal isoprenoid compounds, the inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase may result in pleiotropic effects, independent of their hypocholesterolemic properties. The discrimination between the pleiotropic from LDL-C lowering effects may potentially be more evident during the early phase of treatment since plasma MVA levels drop up to 70% within 1–2 hours while a reduction of LDL-C, detectable after 24 hours, became significant after 6–7 days. Therefore, the deprivation of circulating MVA-derived isoprenoids in the early phase of treatment could be the main mechanism responsible for the atheroprotective effect of statins. This early window of protection in the absence of LDL-C lowering suggests that the anti-inflammatory and the pleiotropic properties of statins may have clinical importance. Therefore, acute coronary syndromes could represent a clinical condition for addressing the early benefits of statins therapy, ie, within 24 h of the event, independent of LDL-C lowering.


We present a study of 323 photometrically variable young stellar objects that are likely members of the North America and Pelican nebulae star-forming region. To do so, we utilize over two years of data in the g and r photometric bands from the Zwicky Transient Facility. We first investigate periodic variability, finding 46 objects (∼15% of the sample) with significant periods that phase well and can be attributed to stellar rotation. We then use the quasiperiodicity (Q) and flux asymmetry (M) variability metrics to assign morphological classifications to the remaining aperiodic light curves. Another ∼39% of the variable star sample beyond the periodic (low Q) sources are also flux-symmetric, but with a quasiperiodic (moderate Q) or stochastic (high Q) nature. Concerning flux-asymmetric sources, our analysis reveals ∼14% bursters (high negative M) and ∼29% dippers (high positive M). We also investigate the relationship between variability slopes in the g versus g − r color–magnitude diagram, and the light-curve morphological classes. Burster-type objects have shallow slopes, while dipper-type variables tend to have higher slopes that are consistent with extinction-driven variability. Our work is one of the earliest applications of the Q and M metrics to ground-based data. We therefore contrast the Q values of high-cadence and high-precision space-based data, for which these metrics were designed, with Q determinations resulting from degraded space-based light curves that have the cadence and photometric precision characteristic of ground-based data.


This chapter is devoted to the comparison of design and
governance of contemporary childcare and eldercare policies in
Norway and the Czech Republic, countries that face historically
similar (although not equal) structures of in-need populations.
In the text we first focus on childcare policy and subsequently
on eldercare policy. The comparisons of both policies in Norway
and the Czech Republic begin with a summary of crucial
theoretical assumptions on welfare regimes as well as the
current characteristics of care policies in both countries.
Then we analyse key characteristics of the two policy systems
in terms of policy design (benefits and services provided and
conditions of its offer) and their governance (financing and
regulation of policies, accessibility and quality of particular
policy measures). To cover these areas of comparison, in which
we explore similarities and differences of both systems, we use
a wide range of quantitative and qualitative data obtained for
the last decade: national and international statistics,
legislation, research studies, professional literature, and
newspaper articles.


This paper examines the politics of mobility which surrounded the London 2012 Olympics. We provide a critical discussion of the mobility conflicts, problems and criticisms which emerged from our research with local people in the Stratford and wider Newham areas of London, where most Olympic events were located. The paper is divided into four broad parts. First, we identify and discuss the relevant components of the 'mobilities paradigm' in social science which underpin our analysis. Second, we briefly outline our research methods, centring particularly on fieldwork and interviews with different social groups. Third, we examine in detail the six main themes of mobility politics which were evident at London 2012, relating to social context, event construction, event mobility systems, commercial mobilities, the mobile politics of exclusion, and contested modes of mobility. In doing so, we seek to extend the mobilities paradigm by introducing various concepts and keywords - notably on the three-speed city, entryability, mobility panics, instrumental mobility, and corporate kettling - which may be utilized by social scientists to examine mobility systems in other social contexts. We conclude by reaffirming the significance of mobility-focused research at sport and other mega-events, and by indicating future lines of inquiry for social scientists.


In this research, the hygroscopic behavior of cupuassu (Theobroma grandiflorum) powder containing 40% maltodextrin was studied via the moisture adsorption and desorption isotherms at 25°C.

 The experimental sorption data of the cupuassu powder were fitted using the Halsey, Henderson, Oswin, GAB and Peleg models. In addition, the powder morphology was assessed using scanning electron microscopy.

 Moisture sorption isotherms curves showed type III behavior, typical of foods rich in soluble components, such as sugars, present in the samples. The adsorption curve indicated that the product requires greater attention when stored and handled in environments with relative humidity above 50%. The microbiological stability of the product is assured up to 11.5% moisture content.

 During the product storage, it is recommended to use packaging with water vapor and air impermeability, due to the presence of porous microspheres that affect the protection of the active material and facilitate the moisture gain. Among the models evaluated, the Peleg and GAB models presented good suitability on predicting the product's sorption isotherms.


Gram-negative coccus which had been previously noticed by Seifert in sections of the lung in cases of influenza. This coccus was next found by R. Pfeiffor in enormous numbers in the sputum of some mild cases of febrile bronchitis, and he named it Micrococcus catarrhalis. An interesting feature with regard to this micro-organism was that it was apt to be markedly intracellular in the sputum: a point that recalls the mode of occurrence in urethral pus of that allied but quite distinct Gram-negative coccus, the gonococcus. Since Micrococcus catarrhalis was named by R. Pfeiffer it has been detected In cases of the influenzal category not only in German and France, but also in America. In some cases Microcodcus catarrhalis is found together with B. influenzae, but in others Pfeiffer's bacillus appears to be absent. In an epidemic of so-called influenz& in Paris last winter Micrococcus catarrhalis was the chief micro-organism found in the sputum by Bezancon and de Jong, whereas Pfeiffer's bacillus was not found. Now, Sir, I must apologize for going into these details, because the BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNATd of August 26th of the present year contained a paper on this very subject by Dr. R. A. Dunn, M.O.H. of the East Herts combined district, and myself. Dr. Dunn observed during the early months of the present year an epidemic in his district of a disease generally of the influenzal type, but presenting in some cases symptoms of cerebro-spinal meningitis, while in others a rash appeared which in most cases was scarlatinal in character. Dr. Dunn asked me to cooperate with him in the investigation of this disease and the result of our joint efforts was the paper to which I refer. The uniform feature of the epidemic was the presence of M. catarrhalis, and in some cases examined at the height of the attack this micro-organism was present in the nasal mucus in such enormous numbers that the microscopical appearance of the mucus in question resembled an artificial culture of M. catarrhalis. I may add that both Dr. Dunn and Dr. Francis Fremantle, M.O.H. of the county of Herts, are at the present time taking active measures with a view to preventing as far as possible further epidemics of this disease. But as the influenzal resources of Nature are not exhausted with Pfeiffer's bacillus, so also the chapter does not end with M. catarrhalis. Some years ago Dr. Edmund Cautley reported to the LocalGovernmentBoardon thesubject ofthebacteriology of coryza, and he pointed out the occurrence in the nasal mucus in "influenzal colds" of a segmented bacillus of the xerosts category, which he aptly named B. coryzae segmentosus. I have frequently examined the nasal discharge in cases of coryza and found this micro-organism to be present. It is often associa*ed with Hoffmann's bacillus, but both Pfeiffer's bacillus and M. catarrhati8 may be absent in such cases. I hope that I have said enough to show that the subject in question is not being neglected by the bacteriologists. It is true that we have still much to learn bacteriologically, as well as clinically, about the different infections In question and their direct and indirect results, but I venture to thtnk that progress would be much more rapid and sure if the physician would utilize the resources of bacteriology already available, and co-operate more towards our common end.-I am, etc., London, SEX, Nov. 25th. M. H. GORDON.


This paper explores the political shifts that take place in participatory design (PD) when the focus is upon co-designing ongoing future societal relations, beyond the immediacy of designing objects or services during project-time. Reflecting on connectedness, it looks at the politics of participation through the lens of people's interdependence, using feminist concepts of 'care' to explore the ethical commitments of designing. In particular, it speaks to Greenbaum's claim, 20 years ago, that 'we have the obligation to provide people with the opportunity to influence their own lives' (1993:47). We explore the questions this raises now, as we design in an increasingly distributed and heterogeneous socio-technical context, to give a contemporary take on long-term commitments to political and ethical outcomes in participatory design. Three contrasting case studies are interrogated to discuss how structuring of social relations was enabled, offering insights into what the politics of care might mean.


Hypercubes, meshes, tori, and Omega networks are well-known interconnection networks for parallel computers. The structure of those graphs can be described in a more general framework called cube graphs. The idea is to assume that every node in a graph with q/sup l/ nodes is represented by a unique string of l symbols over GF(q). The edges are specified by a set of offsets, those are vectors of length l over GF(q), where the two endpoints of an edge are an offset apart. We study techniques for tolerating edge faults in cube graphs that are based on adding redundant edges. The redundant graph has the property that the structure of the original graph can be maintained in the presence of edge faults. Our main contribution is a technique for adding the redundant edges that utilizes constructions of error-correcting codes and generalizes existing ad hoc techniques.


Determination of a preoperative plan is one of the more challenging aspects of performing corrective osteotomies for traumatic or other skeletal deformities. With the advent of sophisticated graphics hardware in personal computers, a method of preoperative planning has been developed which is less time-consuming and more versatile than conventional methods. Using OrthoPlan, radiographs are traced on a backlit, digitizing tablet attached to a microcomputer. A variety of osteotomies may be rapidly simulated on the computer screen and the surgical outcome visualized. Computer-assisted preoperative planning (CAPP) can be effectively used to decrease planning time, allow visualization of multiple surgical options, and predict results.


Zinc intoxication has been reported in cases of dietary supplementation, therapeutic overdose, coin ingestion and chronic use of denture cream. Zinc in excess upregulates copper-binding metallothionein in the gut mucosa, leading to increased elimination of copper and negative copper balance. Copper deficiency may also occur in the absence of zinc intoxication, during long-lasting parenteral nutrition and in malabsorption. It is characterised by haematological abnormalities, including sideroblastic anaemia, neutropenia and myelodysplastic syndrome, possibly related to a decreased activity of reductase enzymes of the mitochondria. Neurological manifestations of copper deficiency typically involve a myelopathy resembling subacute combined degeneration, yet optic and peripheral neuropathies, lower motoneuron degeneration, myopathy and central nervous system demyelination have also been reported.1–5 No case of renal manifestation has been published yet. Because of its core feature of chronic copper overload, Wilson disease (WD) may be considered a low risk for such complications to occur. We report here an original case of copper deficiency in WD related to chronic therapeutic overdose of zinc.

In 1992, a 25-year-old patient was diagnosed as having WD. He had mild cognitive deficit, resting tremor, dystonia, dysarthria, gait impairment and liver cirrhosis. Penicillamine therapy was discontinued after 6 months due to further neurological deterioration. Zinc sulfate in monotherapy was introduced …


In this chapter, an exergy analysis applied to a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)/vapor adsorption refrigeration (VAR) system is presented. The influences of four significant parameters (current density, inlet fuel temperature, fuel utilization and steam-to-carbon ratio) on the exergy efficiency of both the SOFC stack and the SOFC-VAR system are investigated. In order to do so, a mathematical model is constructed in Engineering Equation Solver (EES) software to generate the simulations. The analysis shows that the calculated exergy efficiency is around 8% lower than the energy efficiency for both cases. Moreover, it is found that most of the causes of irreversibilities in the system are due to electronic and ionic conduction in the components. It is also shown that the exergy efficiency is substantially sensitive to fuel inlet temperature, which is evidenced by a bending-over behavior. Finally, in accordance with the calculated efficiency defects, the main exergy destructions are present in the heat exchangers, the SOFC, the afterburner and the generator.


Abstract : This thesis examines Department of Defense involvement in U.S. preparedness to manage the consequences of a nuclear, radiological, biological, or chemical terrorist attack against its cities. It analyzes the establishment and implementation of the Defense Against Weapons of Mass Destruction Act of 1996 which directed the Department of Defense to assist in the training of state and local emergency response agencies involved in consequence management activities. The historical analysis focuses on the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, major terrorist incidents since 1993, international standards, and legislative and executive efforts undertaken to combat terrorism up to 1996. The $150 million Nunn Lugar Domenici amendment to the FY-97 National Defense Authorization Bill is examined in detail from introduction on the Senate floor to eventual passage and enactment. Problems and policy issues associated with resourcing and implementing the resulting Domestic Preparedness Program are treated. Although the DoD was given responsibility for implementing city training, an interagency effort ensued involving the Public Health Service, Environmental Protection Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Energy, and others. Potential weaknesses may materialize due to several characteristics of the Domestic Preparedness Program, including its novelty and uniqueness, the unorthodox legislative process by which it was established, and its complex organizational structure and temporary nature.


This paper reviews, critically, the discourse of research publication policy and the directives of the regional and global organisations that advise African countries with respect to their relevance to African scholarly communication. What emerges is a readiness to use the concepts and language of the public good, making claims for the power of technology to resolve issues of African development. However, when it comes to implementing scholarly publication policies, this vision of technological power and development-focused scientific output is undermined by a reversion to a conservative research culture that relies on competitive systems for valuing and accrediting scholarship, predicated upon the systems and values managed by powerful global commercial publishing consortia. The result is that the policies put in place to advance African research effectively act as an impediment to ambitions for a revival of a form of scholarship that could drive continental growth. While open access publishing models offer solutions to the marginalisation of African research, the paper argues that what is also needed is a re-evaluation of the values that underpin the recognition of scholarly publishing, to better align with the continent's articulated research goals.


A high reliability complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) winner-takes-all/ loser-takes-all circuit of O(N) complexity with programmable capability is designed. Based on the proposed architecture, the precision of the circuit is independent of the number of inputs. This circuit is easily programmed for WTA or LTA function by an enable signal, without modifying the circuit structure or preprocessing the input variables. Since the circuit contains only simple logic gates and a single comparator, it is tolerant of VLSI process variations. The response time of the circuit increases linearly with the number of inputs. The input signal range of the circuit allows rail- to-rail (0-VDD) operation. The supply voltage ranges from 2.7 V to 5 V. An experimental chip with six inputs was fabricated using 0.5-mm CMOS double-poly double-metal technology. The results show that a cell is either a winner or a loser if its input voltage is larger or smaller than the other cells by 10 mV.


Alteration in dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission influences various neurological and mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and drug abuse. The naturally occurring aporphine alkaloids are well known for their activity at D1, D2 and 5-HT1A receptors, but only a few have been shown to bind to the 5-HT2A receptor. Aim of this study was to identify aporphines with significant activity at dopamine and serotonin receptors using both in silico and in vitro screening approaches. A 3D homology model of the rat 5-HT2A receptor was generated using the crystal structure of the human β2-adrenergic receptor (PDB ID: 2RH1) and validated with standard 5-HT2A receptor ligands. A filtered set of aporphines obtained from the ZINC database using (S)-boldine as the backbone structure was docked into the generated 5-HT2A receptor model. A set of 13 compounds were identified with higher or comparable activity to (S)-boldine for experimental testing across the D1, D2, 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors using a medium throughput radioligand receptor binding assay. (R)-roemerine was found to have selective 5-HT2A binding affinity with 20–400-fold higher affinity for the 5-HT2A receptor versus the D1, D2, and 5-HT1A receptors. Investigation into the structures of the selected compounds revealed that substitution at positions 1 and 2, particularly with a methylenedioxy group, non-substitution at positions 10 and 11 and a protonated amino group at position 6 may be responsible for the good affinity-selectivity profile of (R)-roemerine for the 5-HT2A receptor compared to the other compounds. Further analysis of the binding modes of the selected compounds also showed that the combination of an electrostatic interaction and the hydrogen bonding between the protonated amino group of (R)-roemerine and Asp155 and a pi-cation interaction with Phe339 appears to explain its enhanced affinity and selectivity as compared to the other compounds. The results illustrate the usefulness of a
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combined in silico and in vitro approach in the search for lead molecules for the development of new selective drugs acting at dopamine and serotonin receptors.


Standard static WCET analysis methods today are based on the IPET technique, where WCET estimation is formulated as an integer linear programming (ILP) problem subject to linear program flow constraints with an objective function derived from the hardware timing model. The estimate is then calculated by an ILP solver. The hardware cost model, as well as the program flow constraints, are often derived using a static program analysis framework such as abstract interpretation. An alternative idea to estimate the WCET is to add time as an explicit variable, incremented for each basic block in the code. The possible values of this variable can then be bound by a value analysis. We have implemented this idea by integrating the time estimation in our Abstract Execution method for calculating program flow constraints. This method is in principle a very detailed value analysis. As it computes intervals bounding variable values, it bounds both the BCET and the WCET. In addition, it derives the explicit execution paths through the program which correspond to the calculated BCET and WCET bounds. We have compared the precision and the analysis time with the traditional IPET technique for a number of benchmark programs, and show that the new method typically is capable of calculating as tight or even tighter WCET estimates in shorter time. Our current implementation can handle simple timing models with constant execution times for basic blocks and edges in the CFG, but it is straightforward to extend the method to more detailed hardware timing models.


The use of technology in education has long thrived. Day after day the transformation of education change with time. In line with technological development, educational institution has also developed nicely. The transformation of methods and delivery information are also changed by using additional material that helps instructors disseminate knowledge to students. This research aims to identify the teaching materials that used in Photography education. Studio lighting subject was selected as the research subject. The objective of this research is to produce a video tutorial for studio lighting subject to enhance the student understanding of this subject. The method that been used to collect the data is a Qualitative method. At the first stage, a pilot study was conducted to get the scenario and to investigating the problem. A set of questionnaire was distributed to 03 students in photography department o UiTM Perak. The result shown that over half of 38 respondents not really understand. Another method that used is by Observation in classes. The next stage, a video tutorial was produced after through a video analysis. The element of video tutorial had been studied in progress to produce a good video tutorial. The result has shown that video tutorial gave an impact to the student and makes them more interested to learn.


A female infant with CHARGE syndrome and a long type IV cleft extending to within 5 mm of the carina underwent transcervical repair at 5 weeks of age. The trachea was transected from the cricoid cartilage and was peeled off the esophagus. The front of the esophagus and the back of the trachea were repaired while still ventilating the patient. The trachea was reconnected to the cricoid cartilage. This technique obviated the need for a sternal split, thoracotomy, cardiopulmonary bypass, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. It improved visibility, access, airway stability, and coverage of the anastomosis with periosteum permitting a three‐layer closure. Laryngoscope, 2013


Edge Computing is rapidly gaining traction in scenarios such as Cyber-Physical Systems and Web of Things. Whereas the Cloud hides heterogeneity of devices behind its standard interfaces and protocols, the Edge should deal with it, as well as with embracing openness and governing interactions. In this paper we propose TuSoW as a model and technology for bringing tuple-based coordination to the Edge.


This study presents the results of pre-participation musculoskeletal and cardiac screening using the Lausanne recommendations, which include a personal and family history, physical examination and electrocardiography. Cross sectional study using the Lausanne screenings and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recommendations carried out at Al-Ahli club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 230 male athletes participating in organised sports were included. Exclusion criteria were those under 14 or over 35 years old, females and athletes with established cardiovascular disease. Primary outcome are the results of Lausanne screening with outline of the negative, positive and false positive results and number needed to screen. Secondary outcomes include the results of musculoskeletal and neurological screening. A total of 174 (76%) athletes had a negative screening result. Fifty-four athletes (23%) underwent additional testing. Forty-seven athletes (20.4%) had false positive screening results. Seven athletes (3%) had a positive screening result and four athletes (2%) were restricted from sport. The number of athletes needed to screen to detect one lethal cardiovascular condition was 33 athletes. The Lausanne recommendations are well suited for the United Arab Emirates. The number needed to screen to detect one athlete with serious cardiovascular disease is acceptable at 33.


ABSTRACT
 Formamidines are unique insecticides and acaricides that elicit multiple effects in controlling insects. Here, we tested two formamidines, amitraz, and chlordimeform, for their synergistic actions on type II pyrethroids and neonicotinoids to increase their larvicidal actions on the fourth instars of Aedes aegypti L. An organophosphate insecticide was used as a negative control. After 24 h, the synergism of formamidines was highest on imidacloprid, followed by two type II pyrethroids, deltamethrin and fenvalerate. After 48 h, the synergism of formamidines on imidacloprid decreased, remained unchanged on type II pyrethroids, and increased noticeably on two of the newer type neonicotinoids, dinotefuran and thiamethoxam. By 72 h, synergism of formamidines on dinotefuran reached the maximum, while that on imidacloprid was at a minimum. Both formamidines did not show synergistic effects on permethrin or fenitrothion. In all cases, the synergistic effects of amitraz on the two major classes of larvicides were greater than for chlordimeform. These results indicate that amitraz is a promising synergist that shows the potential to increase the efficacy of certain members of type II pyrethroids as well as neonicotinoids to control Ae. aegypti larvae.


Time-series based office market models from urban economics (Rosen 1984, Wheaton / Di Pasquale 1996) describe the market movement for entire cities, but they do not consider local heterogeneity. Cross-sectional models like hedonic price modelling and the adaptation of the hedonic models for vacancy rates are difficult to couple with forecasting results. However, office market research needs spatio-temporal information in the way that forecasting and a detailed spatial resolution are integrated. The microsimulation is a methodological approach that fulfils both requirements. The paper draws especially on the concept of location choice and land-use simulations from urban economics (e.g. Waddell 2003). The case study shown in the paper is Stuttgart, a city in Southern Germany with 4.325 office buildings. About 7.000 office occupiers are complemented by synthetically generated missing values. Occupiers (starting population) and buildings are stored in GIS. An iteration consists of the following steps: First, each user decides by a Monte-Carlo-Simulation whether to stay, to leave or to move. The probability for a decision is influenced by building properties, user types and location variables that are estimated with a multinomial logit regression and a mover data sample. Second, all moving and immigrating occupiers choose between coincidentally offered available buildings (binary logistic regression for different user groups). The simulation is programmed in Visual Basic for Applications and offers the parallel simulation of multiple scenarios. The statistical evaluation of these scenarios results in information about the risk of vacancy in individual buildings and the absorption time of newly built office clusters.


Psychotherapeutic supervision exists to support, develop and monitor the practice of counsellors and psychotherapists. This endeavour creates an opportunity for counsellors and psychotherapists to learn and develop their craft and engage in on-going professional development. The establishment of a safe and trusting supervisory relationship enables supervisees to openly reflect on their casework and gain professional and personal insights. Psychotherapeutic supervisors are experienced practitioners, who are motivated to empower their supervisees, share their wisdom and safeguard clients. The question guiding this research was 'What is the meaning of being a psychotherapeutic supervisor?' In order to address this question a Heideggerian, hermeneutic phenomenological philosophical and methodological position was taken. Evocative experiences were captured from 22 interviews with 14 experienced psychotherapeutic supervisors who practised in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The analysis of the stories borrowed from participants illuminated the Phenomenon of Responsibility. This phenomenon manifested in unique yet common human experiences in terms of Responsibility as being-true and being-untrue ,Responsibility as leaping-in and leaping-ahead, and Responsibility as existing-resolutely. This study offers the finding that an enduring meaning of being a psychotherapeutic supervisor is being-responsible. The view is offered that existential angst pervades psychotherapeutic supervisory relationships and is inter-twined with experiences of heightened responsibility. The participants' stories have revealed that the experience of responsibility pervades the world of psychotherapeutic supervision. Being-responsible was an inescapable experience for these psychotherapeutic supervisors. It is contended that responsibility is a hidden yet influential aspect of being a psychotherapeutic supervisor which if unconcealed could be of benefit to the supervisory endeavour. It is argued that the phenomenon of responsibility can be rendered intelligible, in the world of psychotherapeutic supervision, by moving outside of the confines of epistemologies that focus on theories about responsibility or prescribed ethical guidelines and instead, by uncovering and dwelling in the day to day lived experience of being-responsible when being in human to human relationships.


We consider a multi-hop, ad hoc network using the IEEE 802.11b technology, where the nodes may employ different transmission rates depending on their channel conditions. It has been observed that such a network scenario poses new challenges concerning traffic routing as well as channel access. In this paper, we propose a novel scheme for route selection that, by using cross-layer interactions, yields improved throughput performance. Whenever a source node requires a route to reach a destination node, the proposed scheme determines the best source-destination path based on the following MAC parameters: the collision probability and the available bandwidth. Thus, by exploiting the synergy between network layer and MAC layer, the route providing the highest throughput is selected. Results obtained through the ns-2 simulator show the effectiveness of the proposed approach.


Generative adversarial networks (GANs) transform latent vectors into visually plausible images. It is generally thought that the original GAN formulation gives no out-of-the-box method to reverse the mapping, projecting images back into latent space. We introduce a simple, gradient-based technique called stochastic clipping. In experiments, for images generated by the GAN, we precisely recover their latent vector pre-images 100% of the time. Additional experiments demonstrate that this method is robust to noise. Finally, we show that even for unseen images, our method appears to recover unique encodings.


Rice is the most important staple food for a large part of the world's human population, especially in tropical Latin America, the West Indies, East, South and Southeast Asia. Mutation-based breeding is to develop and improve plant varieties by modifying one or two major traits to increase their productivity or quality in a relatively short time than conventional breeding. This is now widely used in agriculture to get the success rapidly. The present study inspects the effect of chronic gamma irradiation on rice (Binadhan-8, NMR-152 and Pongsuseribu-2) varieties. Rice seedlings at the age of 14 days were exposed to chronic gamma irradiation (low dose rate radiation) in Gamma Green House (GGH) at Malaysian Nuclear Agency for 60 days. The treated seedlings were designated in three replicates. The accumulated doses received by the rice plants were from 29 to 639 Gy for 60 days. Control plants were grown outside the gamma green house. The plant heights were recorded every week after planting in GGH. Effects of radiation were measured in terms of plant height, number of tiller and number of filled grain produced. At cumulative doses of 67 and 162 Gy (0.07and 0.17 Gy/hr, respectively), the rice seedlings showed the highest plant height with maximum tillering and highest number of filled grain. Those rates are stimulating to the growth and development of the plants. This study helps explicate the biological effects of low-dose gamma irradiation in rice plants at various exposure periods.


Pentoxifylline increases erythrocyte flexibility, reduces blood viscosity, and inhibits platelet aggregation and is thus used in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. It is transformed into at least seven phase I metabolites, of which two, M1 and M5, are active. The reduction of the keto group of pentoxifylline to a secondary alcohol in M1 takes place chiefly in erythrocytes, is rapidly reversible, and creates a chiral center. The aims of this study were: to develop HPLC methods to separate the enantiomers of M1, to investigate the kinetics of the reversible biotransformation of pentoxifylline to (R)and (S)-M1 in hemolysed erythrocyte suspension, and to quantify the formation of the enantiomers of M1 (as well as M4 and M5) after intravenous and oral administration of pentoxifylline to human volunteers. (R)and (S)-M1 could be separated preparatively on a cellobiohydrolase column, while determination in blood or plasma was by HPLC after chiral derivatization with diacetyl-L-tartaric acid anhydride. The metabolism of pentoxifylline to (R)-M1 in suspensions of hemolysed erythrocytes followed simple Michaelis-Menten kinetics (Km = 11 mM), while that to (S)-M1 was best described by a two-enzyme model (Km = 1.1 and 132 mM). Studies with inhibitors indicated that the enzymes were of the carbonyl reductase type. At a therapeutic blood concentration of pentoxifylline, the calculated rate of formation of (S)-M1 is 15 times higher than that of the (R)-enantiomer. Back-conversion of M1 to pentoxifylline was 3–4 times faster for the (S)than for the (R)-enantiomer. In vivo, the R:S plasma concentration ratio of M1 ranged from 0.010–0.025 after intravenous infusion of 300 or 600 mg of pentoxifylline, and from 0.019–0.037 after oral administration of 600 mg. The biotransformation of pentoxifylline to M1 was thus highly stereoselective in favor of the (S)-enantiomer both in vitro and in vivo. Chirality 14:643–652, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.


This guide includes selected print and electronic books, journals, and databases as well as quality web resources to support research in the biology of coral reefs (BIOL449).


Confronted with an increasing diversity of social and global challenges, innovation competitions become an increasingly important tool to spur innovation amongst entrepreneurs. Based on a case study on three finalists of the Wendy Schmidt Oil Clean-Up XChallenge, this thesis aims to investigate what factors motivate entrepreneurs to take part in an innovation competition. Due to the fact that four years after the closure of the challenge nine out of ten finalists were still actively in the oil clean-up business, the authors further investigate on what the main motivational factors for continuing business after participation in an innovation competition are. Data was collected via in-depth interviews and analysed by applying the model of entrepreneurial motivation by Naffiziger, Hornsby and Kuratko (1994) as well as Gimeno, Folta, Cooper and Woo's (1997) threshold model. Further, the authors conducted a case study on the finalists of the Wendy Schmidt Oil Clean-Up XChallenge, which was an innovation competition, initiated by the XPrize Foundation in 2010. The competition was a reaction to the BP oil spill disaster in the Gulf of Mexico in April 2010 and aimed for finding better and more efficient oil clean-up solutions. Ten finalists were selected to test their inventions at one of the world's largest testing facilities for oil spill clean-up technology. The findings suggest that the motivators for participation in an innovation competition include a desire for increased publicity and reputation, as well as the opportunity to test the technology. It was also found that factors such as the goal of the organisation and the perception of one's product and business idea play key roles in the decision to participate in an innovation competition. Furthermore, the research shows that the business environment and a need for achievement influence the decision to partake. With regards to the motivational factors that encourage sustained entrepreneurship after participating in an innovation competition, it was found that the correlation between expectations, both regarding the outcome and the implementation process, upon entering the competition and the actual outcome, does not have a large impact upon whether operations are continued after the innovation competition has ended. Instead, it was found that the main motives for continuing operations are a strong psychic attachment to the business, as well as high costs of switching to another area of commerce.


This study investigated the illness beliefs of 40 depressed Chinese Americans in a primary care setting using the Exploratory Model Interview Catalogue (EMIC). Twenty-two depressed Chinese Americans (76%) complained of somatic symptoms; 4 (14%) reported psychological symptoms including irritability, rumination, and poor memory. No patients reported depressed mood spontaneously. Yet, 93% endorsed depressed mood when they filled out the CBDI. Twenty-one patients (72%) did not know the name of their illness or did not consider it a diagnosable medical illness, and five patients (17%) attributed their symptoms to pre-existing medical problems. Only three patients (10%) labeled their illness as psychiatric conditions. The patients generally sought help from general hospital (69%), lay help (62%), and alternative treatment (55%) but rarely from mental health professionals (3.5%) for their depressive symptoms. The results suggest that many Chinese Americans do not consider depressed mood a symptom to report to their physicians, and many are unfamiliar with depression as a treatable psychiatric disorder.