CONTEXT
DNA flow cytometry of breast cancer is a proposed tumor marker of prognostic significance that is of controversial clinical utility because of lack of standardization and confirmatory studies.

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the prognostic significance of the more informative technique of multiparametric 2-color DNA flow cytometry as recommended by the 1992 DNA Cytometry Consensus Conference.

DESIGN
Three hundred thirty-two breast carcinomas with 7 to 12 years of follow-up were prospectively analyzed as fresh tumors that were mechanically dissociated into whole cell suspensions. These suspensions were dual fluorescence-labeled with propidium iodide (DNA) and antibodies to cytokeratin (epithelium) and leukocyte common antigen (internal leukocyte control) for gated analysis of subpopulations. Multicycle software with histogram-dependent algorithms employing background, aggregate, and debris correction were used in DNA and cell-cycle quantitation. Data were analyzed according to the DNA Flow Cytometry Consensus Conference recommendations.

RESULTS
DNA ploidy and proliferation stratified into 3 categories were not predictive of overall or disease-free survival. Sixty-five percent of tumors were nondiploid, and 35.4% were diploid. Two hundred six tumors were able to be evaluated for synthesis-phase fraction (SPF) analysis, with 74 of 206 cases in the low range (<13.4%), 36.4% in the intermediate range (>13.5 to <25.4%), and 27.6% in the high SPF (>25.5%) category. Aneuploid tumors tended to have a higher SPF. Univariate survival analysis showed prognostic significance of the following: tumor size, stage, TNM components, vascular invasion, nuclear grade, and histologic grade. Only T classification, presence of positive axillary lymph nodes, and distant metastases were significant independent predictors of survival in multivariate Cox regression models. Age and hormone receptor status showed no prognostic significance. Synthesis-phase fraction was significantly correlated with tumor size, stage, T classification, nuclear and histologic grade, presence of estrogen or progesterone receptors, and axillary lymph node status. None of the histologic parameters showed any significant association with DNA aneuploidy, except for high nuclear and histologic grade and the absence of estrogen receptors.

CONCLUSIONS
Despite the use of state-of-the-art processing and flow cytometry analytic techniques, DNA ploidy and proliferation measurements were not predictive of survival in any stage of breast cancer. However, select histopathologic parameters and TNM stage were significant predictors of survival in univariate and multivariate analyses. We conclude that DNA ploidy and proliferation measurements do not provide significant prognostic information for clinicians to integrate into therapeutic decision making for patients with breast cancer.


Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd. constructed the No.13 subway line 8.9km long between Ikebukuro and Shibuya, and it was open for traffic in this June. This line's deepest point is between Zoshigaya station and NishiWaseda station, so we constructed a pumping station which was located at a crossing with heavy traffic and was at a depth of 33m with high water pressure. Considering these conditions, we chose a non-open construction of a pumping station by PSS-Arch Method. This paper shows and argues about the results of measurements of segments, curved steel pipes and support structures, and confirms an assumption obtained from measurements by 2D-FEM.


Genetics is one of the most powerful scientific fields today. It is transforming how we view medicine and public health, and is producing tremendous new discoveries in biotechnology. Advances in genetics also provoke extensive ethical debates over cloning, genetic counseling, stem cell research, and privacy. But to understand these debates, it's essential to understand where these ideas came from - the ideas of the past have had tremendous influence on not just the science of genetics, but on the political and ethical debates surrounding the field. This volume in the Greenwood Guides to Great Ideas in Science series provides an accessible and thorough description of the history of genetics, and includes relevant historical ideas from the Classical era to the present day. The Gene: A Historical Perspective provides an overview of the field of genetics, with contemporary examples of its scientific, social and economic importance, and an emphasis on the historical development of the concept of the gene. The book includes a glossary of terms, a timeline of events, and a bibliography of accessible resources for students who wish to learn more about the gene.


Forty-three shoulders in 38 patients have been reviewed. They were all operated on for long-standing incapacitating calcific tendinitis in the region of the supraspinatus tendon. Excellent or good results were obtained in 34 out of 43 shoulders. The methods employed were simple incision and curettement in 12 shoulders, curettement combined with partial resection of the acromion in 26 shoulders, and resection of the acromion in 5 shoulders. The results were the same in these three groups and about 80 per cent of the operations were successful. The most commonly affected patients were women of 45-50 years of age.


We describe the use of meeting metadata, acquired using a computerized meeting organization and note-taking system, to improve automatic transcription of meetings. By applying a two-step language model adaptation process based on notes and agenda items, we were able to reduce perplexity by 9% and word error rate by 4% relative on a set of ten meetings recorded in-house. This approach can be used to leverage other types of metadata.


Thin bistable composite laminates can be used for shape morphing applications by virtue of their material properties and asymmetric ply layup. These laminates are called bistable because they can be snapped into two or more stable shapes. A single bistable patch can result in simple cylindrical shapes and when multiple such patches are assembled into a single multi-patch laminate they result in more complex shapes and multiple stable shapes that can find wide practical use in shape morphing applications. Analytical models exist that can approximate the stable shapes of the laminates from the input of material properties and laminate geometry. And these models correlate with FEA and experiment to a satisfactory degree and could be used for the design of multi patch laminates. In this research, we make use of these analytical models that solve for a four-patch grid laminate and create a design method based on optimization to solve the reverse problem to arrive at the laminate parameters given the target shape(s). Two approaches are presented wherein one targets a single stable shape and the other targets two stable shapes which are the shapes before and after snap through. This work would be useful to understand how multi-patch laminates could be designed using optimization.


BACKGROUND: Anaphylaxis to latex or muscle relaxant drugs has been demonstrated in the perioperative period but there are no reports of a patient with anaphylaxis to both of these substances. METHODS: We report a patient with meningomyelocele who was initially thought to have anaphylaxis to latex during induction of anesthesia. After recurrence of anaphylaxis following removal of latex as the suspected agent, the muscle relaxant vecuronium was found to be the actual etiology. RESULTS: Skin testing to several muscle relaxants and other anesthetic medications confirmed a hypersensitivity to vecuronium. Skin testing and subsequent physical contact with latex also established a hypersensitivity to this substance. CONCLUSIONS: This report demonstrates the need to scrutinize closely every notation in the anesthesia record when evaluating perioperative anaphylaxis and to consider that hypersensitivity to more than one substance may be present.


Emotional intelligence has effects on financial effectiveness of organizations by handling the overconfidence bias, and the objective of our research study is to investigate that statement confirmed from the information getting from executives of financially successful organizations. In methodology, cross-sectional design has been used and questionnaires were used for data collection from the sample of 300 executives from financial and non-financial organizations which were enlisted on SECP. The deductive research approach was used, as the research was based on the theoretical framework of behavioral finance. Hypotheses were tested through correlational & regression analysis. For testing the mediation effect of overconfidence bias, Baron and Kenny method was used. The mediation results has been confirmed through the technique of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results and conclusion of this research suggested that existence of direct and positive relationship between emotional intelligence has been found in executives for achieving financial effectiveness of organizations through mediating role of overconfidence bias.
Keywords: Emotional intelligence, financial effectiveness, overconfidence


In the age of next-generation sequencing, the availability of increasing amounts and quality of data at decreasing cost ought to allow for a better understanding of how natural selection is shaping the genome than ever before. Yet, alternative forces such as demography and background selection obscure the footprints of positive selection that we would like to identify. Here, we illustrate recent developments in this area, and outline a roadmap for improved selection inference. We argue (1) that the development and obligatory use of advanced simulation tools is necessary for improved identification of selected loci, (2) that genomic information from multiple-time points will enhance the power of inference, and (3) that results from experimental evolution should be utilized to better inform population-genomic studies.


Healthcare markets have started being created in Europe. Indeed, some countries, such as the UK, have introduced competitive forces in their health systems as a means to improve their efficiency and quality. The role of competition in healthcare is a hotly debated topic with some considering it "anathema" and others seeing it as "a magic bullet". Aiming to spark this heated, albeit unsettled, debate, this article raises an additional concern: it contends that when competitive forces are introduced into a health system, the main actors involved in the provision of healthcare, mainly physicians acting either as gatekeepers or purchasers of healthcare services may enter into agreements that restrict competition among healthcare providers with a view to protecting equity and access to care. Shining a light on these antitrust concerns, this article asks the wider question: should competition authorities in Europe consider in their competition analysis the core objectives their health systems strive to attain, such as equity? How and to what extent can the antitrust enforcers integrate distributive concerns into their competition assessment on the basis of article 101 TFEU?


Data integration by local and state governments is undertaken for the public good to support the interconnected needs of families and communities. And though data infrastructure is a powerful tool to support equity-oriented reforms, equity is rarely centered as a core goal for data integration. This raises fundamental concerns, as integrated data increasingly provide the raw materials for evaluation, research, and risk modeling. This session presents findings from a toolkit collaboratively generated by a workgroup convened by Actionable Intelligence for Social Policy at the University of Pennsylvania.
IntroductionWhile data sharing occurs within a legal framework, an emphasis on equity is often peripheral. Generally, institutions have not adequately examined and acknowledged structural bias in their history, or the ways in which data reflects systemic inequities in the development and administration of policies and programs. Meanwhile, the public are rarely consulted in the development and use of data systems.
Objectives and ApproachThis toolkit was collaboratively generated by a workgroup of civic data stakeholders from across the US.
ResultsThe toolkit aims to support agencies seeking to acknowledge and compensate for the harms and bias baked into data and practice. It is organized across six stages of the administrative data life cycle—planning, data collection, data access, use of algorithms and statistical tools, analysis, and reporting and dissemination. For each stage, the toolkit includes promising and problematic practices for centering equity in administrative data reuse, with site-based examples of work in action from across the US.
Conclusion / ImplicationsThe workgroup concluded that centering equity within data integration efforts is not a binary outcome, but rather a series of small steps towards more equitable practice. There are countless ways to center equity across the administrative data reuse life cycle, and this report provides concrete strategies for agencies, organizations and collaboratives to begin and grow that work in practice.


This study evaluated the extent to which first-grade class size predicted child outcomes and observed classroom processes for 651 children (in separate classrooms). Analyses examined observed child-adult ratios and teacher-reported class sizes. Smaller classrooms showed higher quality instructional and emotional support, although children were somewhat less likely to be engaged. Teachers in smaller classes rated typical children in those classes as more socially skilled and as showing less externalizing behavior and reported more closeness toward them. Children in smaller classes performed better on literacy skills. Larger classrooms showed more group activities directed by the teacher, teachers and children interacted more often, and children were more often engaged. Lower class sizes were not of more benefit (or harm) as a function of the child's family income. First-grade class size in the range typical of present-day classrooms in the United States predicts classroom social and instructional processes as well as relative changes in social and literacy outcomes from kindergarten to first grade.


Purpose Medication-related osteonecrosis of jaw (MRONJ) is associated with certain drug therapies. Pharmacoepidemiologic studies often rely on electronic healthcare data to assess adverse events following drug exposure. Few studies have developed and validated claims-based MRONJ identification algorithms. This study assessed the performance of claims-based MRONJ algorithms by chart review of potential cases among postmenopausal (PM) women and women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO). Methods Among PM and PMO women sourced from a large US commercial health insurance database affiliated with Optum, potential cases were identified by International Classification of Diseases, 9th and 10th Revisions (ICD-9, ICD-10) diagnosis codes; 200 were selected for chart retrieval, with the goal of obtaining 100 charts in each coding era. Procured charts were redacted and then reviewed by an oral surgeon who determined case status. Positive predictive values (PPV) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated overall, by cohorts, and coding eras. Baseline characteristics were assessed. Two potential algorithm refinements were explored: using a restricted set of ICD codes; requiring antibiotic use after MRONJ diagnosis. Results A total of 1273 potential cases were identified. Of the 200 potential cases selected, 104 (52%) were procured, and six cases were confirmed (PPV 5.8%, 95% CI 2.2, 12.1). Baseline characteristics were largely similar across all strata. Potential algorithm refinements yielded marginal PPV improvement. Conclusion This study identified a small number of confirmed cases, and the resulting PPVs were low, but consistent with reported studies. Potential algorithm refinements yielded minimal improvements. To our knowledge, this study is the first to report on the identification of MRONJ using ICD-10 codes in the US.


Snippets are used by almost every text search engine to complement the ranking scheme in order to effectively handle user searches, which are inherently ambiguous and whose relevance semantics are difficult to assess. Despite the fact that XML is a standard representation format of Web data, research on generating result snippets for XML search remains limited.
 To tackle this important yet open problem, in this article, we present a system eXtract which generates snippets for XML search results. We identify that a good XML result snippet should be a meaningful information unit of a small size that effectively summarizes this query result and differentiates it from others, according to which users can quickly assess the relevance of the query result. We have designed and implemented a novel algorithm to satisfy these requirements. Furthermore, we propose to cluster the query results based on their snippets. Since XML result clustering can only be done at query time, snippet-based clustering significantly improves the efficiency while compromising little clustering accuracy. We verified the efficiency and effectiveness of our approach through experiments.


Aquaporins are transmembrane channels found in cell membranes of all life forms. We examine their apparently paradoxical property, facilitation of efficient permeation of water while excluding protons, which is of critical importance to preserving the electrochemical potential across the cell membrane. We have determined the structure of the Escherichia coliaquaglyceroporin GlpF with bound water, in native (2.7 angstroms) and in W48F/F200T mutant (2.1 angstroms) forms, and carried out 12-nanosecond molecular dynamics simulations that define the spatial and temporal probability distribution and orientation of a single file of seven to nine water molecules inside the channel. Two conserved asparagines force a central water molecule to serve strictly as a hydrogen bond donor to its neighboring water molecules. Assisted by the electrostatic potential generated by two half-membrane spanning loops, this dictates opposite orientations of water molecules in the two halves of the channel, and thus prevents the formation of a "proton wire," while permitting rapid water diffusion. Both simulations and observations revealed a more regular distribution of channel water and an increased water permeability for the W48F/F200T mutant.


Although iron stains are a commonly described feature of marine sand grains, the micromorphology and mineralogy of these features has not been determined previously. Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffractometry were used in this study to examine the grain surface features responsible for the iron staining of quartzitic beach sand along the coastline of southeastern Australia. These iron stains consist of iron oxide enriched phyllosilicate clay coatings. Iron oxides coating directly onto the quartz grains were not observed indicating that the phyllosilicate clay coatings are a co-requisite for iron staining. The main iron oxide mineral present in these features was goethite with minor amounts of hematite. The phyllosilicate clays in these coatings are kaolinite and illite. These platy clays are embedded into the quartz sand and are usually oriented with their flat surfaces perpendicular to that of the grain surface.


Abstract. In shared spaces, grouped pedestrians can gain dominance and thus get the right of way from vehicles more easily; grouping can make traffic planning less complicated, e.g. it reduces the number of agents that need to be considered while traffic planning. However, grouping is not well investigated in shared spaces given the dynamic environment and interactions in mixed traffic. In this paper, we apply a dynamic facility location algorithm based on appearance time, origin, and destination of road users before crossing a junction to explore an appropriate grouping strategy in shared spaces, in order to improve the safety and efficiency of traffic.


Airborne polarimetric synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data are investigated for their potential in mapping herbaceous coastal wetlands. The subenvironments of coastal wetlands have very distinct vegetation cover and surface properties. Qualitative analysis of the SAR images reveals the relative importance of surface and vegetation scatter in these subenvironments. Furthermore, sampled SAR data distinctly separate the subenvironments, indicating that classification techniques could be used to discriminate among them. Although wetland environments are typically too vegetated to use empirical surface models to explain the SAR return, discrete scatterer models can be used to account for the scattering due to the vegetation. A discrete scatterer model fitted to a coastal wetland site on Bolivar Peninsula near Galveston, Texas provides insight into the dominant scattering mechanisms, and may aid in the accurate mapping of coastal wetlands.


Abstract Vitamin E (tocols) is a key metabolite for efficient scavenging of lipid peroxy radicals that cause membrane breakdown during seed ageing. However, in rice, this hypothesis has been tested for very few lines only and without considering intraspecific variation in genomic structure. Here, we present a correlation study between tocols and seed longevity using a diverse rice panel. Seeds of 20 rice accessions held in the International Rice Genebank at the International Rice Research Institute, representing Aus, Basmati/Sadri, Indica, temperate Japonica and tropical Japonica variety groups, were used for tocols analysis (quantification of α-, β-, γ- and δ-tocopherol/tocotrienol by ultra-performance liquid chromatography) and storage experiments at 45°C and 10.9% seed moisture content. To examine the effects of DNA-haplotype on the phenotype, the 700 K high-density single-nucleotide polymorphism marker dataset was utilized. Both seed longevity (time for viability to fall to 50%; p 50) and tocols content varied across variety groups related to the heterogeneity in the genetic architecture. Among eight types of tocol homologues, α-tocopherol and γ-tocotrienol were significantly correlated with p 50 (negatively and positively, respectively). While temperate Japonica varieties were most abundant in α-tocopherol, Indica varieties recorded 1.3- to 1.7-fold higher γ-tocotrienol than those of other groups. We conclude that the specific ratio of tocol homologues rather than total tocols content plays an important role in the seed longevity mechanism.


The satisfiability problem (SAT) is a fundamental problem in mathematical logic, constraint satisfaction, VLSI engineering, and computing theory. Methods to solve the satisfiability problem play an important role in the development of computing theory and systems. Traditional methods treat the SAT problem as a constrained decision problem. During past research, the number of unsatisfiable clauses as the value of an objective function was formulated. This transforms the SAT problem into a search problem-an unconstrained optimization problem to the objective function. A variety of iterative optimization techniques can be used to solve this optimization problem. In this paper, the author shows how to use the local search techniques to solve the satisfiability problem. The average time complexity analysis and numerous real algorithm executions were performed. They indicate that the local search algorithms are much more efficient than the existing SAT algorithms for certain classes of conjunctive normal form (CNF) formulas. >


The mooring optimization process for a FOWT is a complex study that involves a large number of simulations. All possible designs of the optimization process should be assessed and the operational and survival constrains verified for acceptance or disregard the solution. These constraints are mainly the design bases of the mooring lines, but also the FOWT operational and survival conditions, which are mooring system dependant as it is the governing component for surge, sway and yaw stiffness. Machine Learning (ML) algorithms are used to predict the simulations results by training the model from a set of defined simulations, allowing for a significant reduction of the computational cost of the large number of required simulations. The methodology's main advantage is the high velocity once the model is trained. However, some uncertainties can arise from the exactness of the predicted values.
 The aim of the paper is to design an optimized mooring system for the WindCrete platform for a Gran Canary Island with a 200 m sea depth for ULS. To overcome the difficulties of the optimization process two ML models are developed. The first one, the static ML model, is based on the static response of the mooring system that allows to reduce the solution space of the optimization problem. The second one, the dynamic ML model, is based on the dynamic response of the FOWT and allows to assess the constraints applied to the objective function as penalties. The objective function is defined as the total mass of the mooring system. The variables of the optimization problem are the main line and delta line lengths, the radius to anchor and the chain diameters.
 The first ML model is set-up to predict the static mean line tension at rated wind speed, the vertical force on anchor at rated wind speed and the initial Yaw period of the FOWT. These parameters allow to discard a large number of possible solutions that do not fit with the following design bases: the maximum line tension and no vertical force on anchor. Moreover, a maximum yaw natural period threshold is set-up based on design experience. This is needed due to the lack of damping in yaw direction of Spar platforms. The static ML model is used to create an initial sample of feasible solutions to train the dynamic ML model. Also, during the optimization process is used as a classification model to exclude non-feasible solutions to ensure the performance of the second ML model.
 The second ML model is based on the dynamic response of the WindCrete platform and the mooring system using OpenFast simulation tool. The model is set-up to predict the maximum line tension, vertical force on anchor, maximum surge position and maximum pitch which are used as constraints parameters to be applied at the optimization function as penalties.
 The results show a good approximation of both ML models with a high potential to be applied in determining design load cases, including fatigue assessment in the optimization design process.


In the Shadows of the Kremlin and the White House: Africa's Media Image From Communism to Post-- Communism. Charles Quist-Adade. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 2001. 242 pp. $39 hbk. This book focuses on racism and the role of the media in the institutionalization of prejudice in Russia. Presenting a catalog of victims of racial discrimination, incidences of xenophobia, and some damning racist commentaries in the media, the author exposes the contradictions, politicization, recrimination, repercussion, and myopic simplicity in the media treatment of diversity in Communist and post-Communist Russia. Quist-Adade's ten-- year residence in Russia is dominated by his eight years of research for this book. The volume is a spin-off from the author's doctoral dissertation. It is one of two books on Russian media and Africa published in the United States in 2001 by two former African students at St. Petersburg State University (The other book is Eribo's In Search of Greatness: Russia's Communications with Africa and the World, Ablex/ Greenwood). Although the authors are of two different generations and research backgrounds, both volumes complement each other in documenting the ideological dogmatism in the media of the former Soviet Union. Quist-Adade reiterated on page 180 that the objective of his book is to examine the socio-cultural and historical factors affecting media coverage of Africa and the use of stereotypes during the Communist and post-Communist governments in Russia in the portrayal of images of Africa in the press. This objective led to a series of questions by the author that the author himself points out on page 181 that he may not have answered satisfactorily. The author's frank outspokenness, bravado, and scholarship, which are commendable, are exhibited in his analysis of the media in Russia and the West. He interjects laconic humor, anecdotes, and ironies in the in-depth examination of the historical, cultural, and political connections between media coverage and cognitive effects. In his analysis of the ramification of the interplay between the media and ingrained xenophobia cum cultural chauvinism, Quist-Adade rejects the cheerleading role of the media in Russia, Europe, and the United States. The media are depicted as active promoters or perpetrators of racial invective, discrimination, and denigration and, as such, cannot be regarded as victims of discredited racial manipulators and devious gurus of white supremacy. Citing examples from South Africa, Ethiopia, Somalia, Angola, Ghana, Nigeria, and a host of countries in sub-Sahara Africa, he points out discriminatory coverage of Africans and African events in European and American media. The book is divided into five chapters. There is an introduction but no conclusion. Chapter one is a prologue. It examines the relationship between the Kremlin and Africa during the Communist era. The thirty-two-- page discourse focuses on Gorbachev's glasnost and perestroika and Yeltsin's post-- Communist rule. …


Modern factory facilities are characterized by highly flexible manufacturing cells and highly dynamic processes, where clusters of fixed or moving sensors and actuators have to be controlled in a limited space under stringent real-time and reliability constraints. In such demanding industrial environments, wireless systems can also be beneficial by improving flexibility, cutting cables, and enabling solutions, which are cumbersome or even not possible to realize with wireline systems, especially in controlling moving or rotating parts. In this paper, we present a conceptual study of a wireless real-time system dedicated for remote sensor/actuator control in production automation. System development is based on user requirements, which were extracted from customer interviews and a market research. Low level measurements of frequency- and space-selective wireless channels in a factory-like environment were carried out. System design aspects, i.e., network topology, multiple access schemes, and radio technologies, will be thoroughly reviewed. The performance of a first prototype implementation will be discussed with emphasis on timing behavior and power consumption, as sensors and actuators of the wireless system are intended to operate without power lines or batteries


In this paper a linear compressor prototype with a set of cylindrical coil springs connected to one side of the trestle is developed. The initial position of piston head is near to the top dead center and coil springs are on free status. The experiments on the prototype are carried out by compressing air on different working conditions. The experimental results show that the linear compressor with one side springs can take good advantage of the gas spring characteristics of the compressed work fluid to reduce the stiffness of mechanical spring and the weight of compressor. However the mechanical springs cannot help to constrain the piston bumping the cylinder head. The performance of the linear compressor prototype with one side springs changes with the discharge pressure sensitively. The discharge volume of the prototype on 0.2MPa is only 24.7% of that on 0.6MPa. The highest efficiency of the prototype is about 82.5% on discharge pressure of 0.5MPa and it drops with the decreasing of discharge pressure or discharge volume. On each condition with different discharge pressure or discharge volume, there exists the highest efficiency by changing the frequency. Therefore the linear compressor with one side springs is more suitable for the application that the cooling capacity need to be reduced with the decreasing of condensing temperature.


Path-tracking by using MPC (model predictive control) is a suitable control science solution for mobile robot navigation applications. Online MPC is reported by using short-term horizons that allow dealing with flexible path-tracking and reactive behaviors. The majority of MPC experimental research developed is based on the fact that the reference trajectory is known beforehand. However, under dynamic environments the global solution becomes unfeasible for the majority of applications where the scenario should be considered as partially unknown due to the lack of global sensors or the existence of dynamic obstacles. Moreover, traditional motion control of wheeled mobile robots (WMRs) is achieved by using discontinuous control laws that are implemented through low level velocity PID controllers. Instead of using such methods, this work proposes to use local MPC as a useful methodology for WMR navigation under dynamic environments or as obstacle avoidance strategy. In this way, the desirable path coordinates are used in the control law as a way for obtaining the robot speed commands. Simulation results are used for addressing online MPC implementations. The system is on-robot tested by using simple on board perception systems. In this context, a local occupancy grid is built by using dead-reckoning and monocular data.


A major thematic objective of Ocean Drilling Program Leg 160 drilling was an improved understanding of the processes involved in the initial stages of continental collision. The Eratosthenes platform is hypothesized to be a fragment of thinned North African crust that is about to be subducted beneath Cyprus. Incipient subduction appears to be accompanied by extensive normal faulting, indicating that the Eratosthenes platform is undergoing breakup. Drilling at Sites 965 -968 was aimed primarily at documenting the timing and nature of the subsidence and breakup. Using shipboard paleontologic and physical properties data, supplemented with postcruise age refinements, paleobathymetric estimates, and porosity vs. depth determinations, I present quantitative decompacted subsidence histories for Sites 966 and 967, which are located on or immediately adjacent to the Eratosthenes platform. Taken together, the subsidence results are consistent with a model in which the Eratosthenes platform is a part of North African passive margin that underwent exponentially decreasing thermal subsidence since at least early Cretaceous time, was uplifted during the late Oligocene or early Miocene, and then began a phase of rapid tectonic subsidence by late Miocene time, which has continued to the present day. The overall interpretation of the subsidence history presented here is that the Eratosthenes platform represents a thinned promontory of North African lithosphere that is now in the early stages of tectonic contact with the Eurasian plate. Breakup and subsidence since Miocene time may be related to bending stresses on the North African lithosphere associated with collision.


Though statistically analyzing ten typical wells of kelly cock valve failure in certain oilfields, the main failure modes of the kelly cock valve were determined. Aiming at these modes and combining with mechanical analysis of knob, upper seat and main body of the kelly cock valve, its finite element calculation had been implemented and the weakness of all parts was found. By numerical modeling of the flow field of a kelly cock valve it was found that the velocity of fluid rapidly increased at upper and lower valve seats and this could easily prick out ball valves and valve seats, there was a annular low-velocity zone of minimum speed between the ball valve and the inner wall of the main body and this caused solid aggregation at this area. The research in this paper made the modes and causes of kelly failure to be recognized systematically. The results provided theoretical foundations of further improving the design and reasonable using of a kelly cock valve.


Risk stratification is of paramount importance for the future treatment and follow-up of patients with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder. Transurethral resection (TUR) is the gold standard for initial diagnosis and treatment of non muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Muscle must be present in the pathological specimen in order to correctly stage the tumor. When muscle is not present, the tumor has to be staged as Tx. A second TUR done after two-six weeks of the first resection reduces the rate of tumor left behind and improves staging. Re-TUR in these patients should be considered a must. Since BCG is toxic, an attempt to reduce toxicity was made by reducing the dose. CUETO group showed that 1/3 dose BCG was as effective as full dose in intermediate risk patients but not in high risk. Another study that evaluated the efficacy of low dose BCG is the trial 30962 from EORTC. The results showed a difference of 10% in the five-years recurrence free survival only when 1/3 dose BCG for one year (54.5%) was compared to Full dose BCG for three years (64.2%) suggesting that 1/3 dose or one year full dose are suboptimal treatments. Immediate radical cystectomy should be considered for high grade, multiple T1 tumors, T1 tumors located at a site difficult to resect, residual T1 tumors after resection or high grade tumors with CIS and lymphovascular invasion. Cystoscopy and cytology must be performed at three months. In the case of negative findings, following cystoscopy and cytology assessments have to be repeated every three months for three years, and every six months thereafter until five years, and then annually. For the group of patients with initial BCG induction therapy failure that are unfit or refuse radical cystectomy or have a low or intermediate grade disease an additional course of l BCG is a choice. For patients who failed before completion of maintenance BCG, radical cystectomy has to be considered in presence of a high grade T1 or CIS. BCG maintenance (full dose three years) after Re-TUR is the standard therapy in high-risk TCC of the bladder. Dose reduction to 1/3 dose or one year full dose are suboptimal treatments. Immediate radical cystectomy is indicated in young patients with high-grade T1 tumors who have at least one additional factor associated with a poor prognosis such as: multifocality, associated CIS, prostatic involvement, tumor located at a site difficult to resect, limphovascular invasion. Radical cystectomy is also indicated in patients who recur after three months of therapy as T1 high grade. Device assisted chemotherapy (EMDA, Synergo with MMC) may have a role in BCG failure or BCG resistant patients who cannot receive or refuse cystectomy. Postponing radical cystectomy until progression to muscle invasive disease may have a negative impact on survival.


Since the term 'microemulsion' was first coined almost fifty years ago to describe clear, isotropic, thermodynamically stable systems composed of oil, water, surfactant and cosurfactant, numerous and varied reports of the applications of microemulsions have appeared in the literature. Reports of the use of microemulsions in separation science began to appear in the literature in the early 1990's when they were first used as mobile phases for HPLC and as carrier electrolytes for CE separations, particularly for pharmaceutical applications.

Although both MELC and MEEKC have been used for the separation of a wide range of components, MEEKC has received the most attention in recent years as it can be used for the separation of both charged and neutral solutes has been shown to be particularly useful for rapid chiral separations.
The main objective of this study was the development of rapid O/W MELC and MEEKC methods for the analysis of pharmaceutical compounds in highly hydrophobic formulations which require lengthy sample preparation and extraction procedures prior to analysis using currently preferred techniques such as titration and RP-HPLC.

Both cationic and anionic microemulsions were successfully utilised for the O/W MELC analysis of paracetamol in a suppository and ibuprofen in a cream formulation.
The results of validation studies were very favourable and the method for the analysis of the suppository was extremely rapid and easy compared to the reference method.
Analysis times for the cream were also rapid and were comparable to sample preparation and analysis times using the reference method. Similarly O/W MEEKC methods for the analysis of paracetamol in a suppository using cationic and anionic microemulsions were very rapid and validation results were comparable to those achieved with O/W MELC.

Investigations into the stability of microemulsions under gradient MELC conditions showed that the length of the surfactant alkyl chain was the major factor affecting the systems stability and hence chromatographic reproducibility. The reproducible separation of paracetamol and five of its related impurities in a suppository sample was achieved using a novel isocratic MELC method with a stable diluted CTAB microemulsion as eluent. The most stable microemulsions under diluted conditions were found to be formed with surfactants of longer alkyl chain lengths.

Rapid O/W MEEKC methods for paracetamol impurity profiling using both anionic and cationic microemulsions were also developed, however the methods sensitivities were too low for impurity detection at 0.1% levels. The higher solubilising power of longer alkyl chain surfactants was highlighted

One of the most active areas of MEEKC research to date has been chiral separations. Various chiral selectors such as; cyclodextrins, chiral oils, chiral alcohols etc have been incorporated into the microemulsions and successfully used to achieve enantioseparation using MEEKC. To date there have been no reports of chiral separations using MELC techniques. The effects of using chiral components in the microemulsion mobile phase for the separation of a number of chiral pharmaceutical compounds were assessed.

Microemulsions modified with β-cyclodextrin, a chiral bile salt and a chiral oil phase were used to assess the separations achieved for ibuprofen, ketoprofen, baclofen, atenolol and procyclidine HCl. No chiral separations were achieved, however the effects of surfactant type, microemulsion pH, modifier type & concentration and column temperature were found to effect the achiral separations of the test compounds.


A mechanism is presumed regarding the induction of DNA damage repair at crossing from low to high ionisation doses. Radiation even in low doses disturbs the permeability of membranes and increases the intracellular pH. Alkalation of cells induces changes in chromatin conformation and DNA packing in them. This leads to transcription of different earlier "silent" genes, among them the genes of DNA repair enzymes. This mechanism of induction of DNA damage repair may be common for other physical and chemical agents due to evolutionary-developed unspecific cell reaction vocated for maintenance of intact genome conformation.


A rapidly changing environment creates new challenges for companies seeking to expand their activities outside the country. On the other hand, the changes can be accelerators for new activities, new breakthroughs of ideas. Internationalization solutions of born global enterprises are often in response of changes in the environment and have a quick solution for engaging in the foreign markets, ambition and entrepreneurial activity. Rapid internationalization of small and medium-sized companies is often associated with strong partners and the need for the operation of a network. Therefore, networking is becoming a necessity for successful internationalization of born global companies. Building on the extant literature and drawing on the network theory, this paper presents a conceptual model of born global firm internationalization and benefits from the networking in internationalization process. The theoretical research has shown that formal and informal networking is crucial for internationalization of born global enterprises, however there are positive and negative outcomes, which are discussed. The investigation contributes to born global literature, presenting networking-based rapid internationalization. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ss.86.4.9260


We wish to thank Dr Salberg for his comments on our article. We agree that the term "anaphylactoid reactions" would be more appropriate to describe the syndrome exhibited by these patients. However, we do not feel that the term "anaphylaxis" is in itself truly "inappropriate," since it is commonly used in this context. We are well aware of the fact that plasma histamine levels ranging between 4 and 10 ng/mL have been associated with systemic symptoms. However, standardization of this test among the various laboratories across the country has been lacking. Because of this problem, the National Institutes of Health are sponsoring a study designed to assess proper standardization and eventually achieve better controls over the standardization. We are presently participating in this study. Because of this lack of standardization, we are not certain that one can make meaningful comparisons of absolute values of samples tested in different laboratories.


Entanglement of excitons holds great promise for the future of quantum computing, which would use individual molecular dyes as building blocks of their circuitry. Studying entangled excitonic eigenstates emerging in coupled molecular assemblies in the near-field with submolecular resolution has the potential to bring insight into the photophysics of these fascinating quantum phenomena. In contrast to far-field spectroscopies, near-field spectroscopic mapping permits direct identification of the individual eigenmodes, type of exciton coupling, including excited states otherwise inaccessible in the far field (dark states). Here we combine tip-enhanced spectromicroscopy with atomic force microscopy to inspect delocalized single-exciton states of charged molecular assemblies engineered from individual perylenetetracarboxylic dianhydride (PTCDA) molecules. Hyperspectral mapping of the eigenstates and comparison with calculated many-body optical transitions reveals a second low-lying excited state of the anion monomers and its role in the exciton entanglement within the assemblies. We demonstrate control over the exciton coupling by switching the assembly charge states. Our results reveal the possibility of tailoring excitonic properties of organic dye aggregates for advanced functionalities and establish the methodology to address them individually at the nanoscale.


Plum pox virus (PPV), a member of the genus Potyvirus, is the causal agent of Sharka, the most detrimental disease of stone-fruit trees worldwide. PPV isolates are grouped into seven distinct strains. The minor PPV-W strain was established recently for the divergent W3174 isolate found in Canada. Here, the partial or complete genomic sequences of four PPV-W isolates from Latvia have been determined. The completely sequenced isolates LV-141pl and LV-145bt share 93.1 and 92.1% nucleotide identity, respectively, with isolate W3174, with two regions of higher (>20%) divergence in the P1/HC-Pro and NIa (VPg) regions. Further analyses demonstrated that these two regions correspond to two independent recombination events in the W3174 genome, one involving PPV-M (approximate genome positions 692 to 1424) and the other PPV-D (nucleotides 5672 to 5789). The LV-141pl and LV-145bt isolates appear to be representatives of the "ancestral" PPV-W strain, not affected by recombination. The PPV-W intrastrain variability is substantially higher than that of all other PPV strains, with potential implications for the serological detection of PPV-W isolates. A PPV-W-specific primer pair has been developed, allowing the specific reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction detection of all five presently available W isolates. The characterization of these new PPV-W isolates sheds light on PPV-W evolutionary history, further supports the hypothesis of its East-European origin, and opens the way for the biological and epidemiological characterization of this poorly known PPV strain.


Lutites are commonly metasomatized during diagenesis, but the analysis presented here accounts for most postdepositional change. Potassium metasomatism is particularly common, and typically involves the conversion of kaolin (residual weathering product) to illite by reaction with K + -bearing pore waters. Sandstones also undergo K metasomatism, which involves the replacement of plagioclase by potassium feldspar. These changes can be identified petrographically and are quantitatively accounted for by techniques discussed herein. Bulk chemical analyses and ternary diagrams are used to determine the amount of K addition, premetasomatized sediment composition, and composition of provenance areas. The premetasomatized mineralogy of paleosols can be compared with the mineralogy of recent soil profiles and thus, climate and topographic conditions determined for past weathering events. Some weathering indices lead to erroneous conclusions because, by excluding K 2 O from consideration, correction cannot be made for metasomatic effects.


Western North Pacific tropical cyclone (TC) model tracks are analyzed in two large multimodel ensembles, spanning a large variety of models and multiple future climate scenarios. Two methodologies are used to synthesize the properties of TC tracks in this large data set: cluster analysis and mass moment ellipses. First, the models' TC tracks are compared to observed TC tracks' characteristics, and a subset of the models is chosen for analysis, based on the tracks' similarity to observations and sample size. Potential changes in track types in a warming climate are identified by comparing the kernel smoothed probability distributions of various track variables in historical and future scenarios using a Kolmogorov-Smirnov significance test. Two track changes are identified. The first is a statistically significant increase in the north-south expansion, which can also be viewed as a poleward shift, as TC tracks are prevented from expanding equatorward due to the weak Coriolis force near the equator. The second change is an eastward shift in the storm tracks that occur near the central Pacific in one of the multimodel ensembles, indicating a possible increase in the occurrence of storms near Hawaii in a warming climate. The dependence of the results on which model and future scenario are considered emphasizes the necessity of including multiple models and scenarios when considering future changes in TC characteristics.


Structural response of pin-supported metallic foam core sandwich beam is theoretically investigated. Effects of local denting and core strength and interaction of bending and axial stretching are considered in analysis. A rigid-plastic beam-on-foundation is employed to consider local denting deformation. The local denting continues during the overall deformation of sandwich beam. It is shown that upon neglecting the effect of local denting, the load-carrying capacity and energy absorption of sandwich beam may be overestimated, and the normal axial (membrane) force associated with plastic stretching substantially stiffens the sandwich beams.


This comprehensive survey of continuity and change in trade unions looks at five primarily English-speaking countries: the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK. The authors consider the recent re-examination by trade union movements of the basis of union organization and activity in the face of a harsher economic and political climate. One of the impetuses for this re-examination has been the recent history of unions in the USA. American models of renewal have inspired Australia, New Zealand and the UK, while Canada has undergone a cautious examination of the US model with an attempt to develop a distinctive approach. This book aims to provide a thorough grounding for informed discussion and debate about the position and place of trade unions in modern economies.


Zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) nano-ceramic composite has excellent mechanical properties. Preparation of ZTA was conducted in the present study with an attempt to use as dental ceramics. On the basis of the study on the effect of the die pressing forces on the density and Vickers hardness of the sintered ZTA, additive aids TiO2, MgO, SiO2 and CaO were introduced in order to reduce the sintering temperature of ZTA nano-ceramic composite with good densification. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to evaluate the microstructural morphology. Phase composition was confirmed by using X-ray diffraction. Thermal analysis was further used to study the structural change. The results indicated that the ZTA product sintered at 1450°C had dense and uniform microstructure due to the combinative effect of additive aids, including the formation of an intermediate compound. This study suggested that such ZTA nano-ceramics had potential applications as dental prosthetic materials.


Background: This study evaluates predictors of BRCA1/2 testing among breast and ovarian cancer survivors who received genetic counseling as part of a randomized trial and evaluates moderators of counseling mode on testing uptake. Methods: Predictors of BRCA1/2 testing within one year postcounseling were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression in a population-based sample of breast and ovarian cancer survivors at increased hereditary risk randomly assigned to in-person counseling (IPC; n = 379) versus telephone counseling (TC; n = 402). Variables that moderated the association between counseling mode and testing were identified by subgroup analysis. Results: Testing uptake was associated with higher perceived comparative mutation risk [OR = 1.32; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.11–1.57] in the adjusted analysis. Those without cost barriers had higher testing uptake (OR = 18.73; 95% CI, 7.09–49.46). Psychologic distress and perceived comparative mutation risk moderated the effect of counseling and testing. Uptake between IPC versus TC did not differ at low levels of distress and risk, but differed at high distress (26.3% TC vs. 44.3% IPC) and high perceived comparative risk (33.9% TC vs. 50.5% IPC). Conclusions: Cost concerns are a strong determinant of testing. Differences in testing uptake by counseling mode may depend on precounseling distress and risk perceptions. Impact: Cost concerns may contribute to low testing in population-based samples of at-risk cancer survivors. Precounseling psychosocial characteristics should be considered when offering in-person versus telephone counseling. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(12); 1772–80. ©2017 AACR.


RNA interference (RNAi) is a post-transcriptional gene silencing process elicited by double-stranded RNA, such as micro-RNA (miRNA) and small interfering RNA (siRNA). They are 18-25 nucleotide long, small non-coding RNAs acting as critical regulators in eukaryotic genome expression. They play an important role in regulating a wide range of biological processes such as cell cycle control, differentiation, aging and apoptosis. However, their role in supporting skeletal development and bone homeostasis is still poorly understood.Osteoporotic fractures constitute a tremendous and growing problem in our ageing populations, with an annual incidence of approximately 60000 osteoporotic fractures in Sweden. Osteoporosis is referred as the "Silent epidemic" because bone loss is gradual and a basically symptomless development until a fracture occurs.Results presented in this thesis provide a novel insight into crucial roles of miRNAs in regulating bone homeostasis. The initial aim for the thesis was to perform global miRNA expression profiling in human bone cells, and to correlate these levels to global mRNA levels. We identified and functionally characterized several miRNAs that were differentially expressed and acted in important bone signaling pathways such as the Wnt and BMP pathways. These miRNAs included hsa-miR-29b, hsa-miR-30c2 and hsa-miR-125b, which we found targeting genes highly relevant to bone metabolism e.g. COL1A1, SPARC, RUNX2, BGLAP and FRZB.Thereafter, the effect on the microRNAome upon external stimuli (e.g., Dexamethasone and Parathyroid hormone) was assessed by SOLiD sequencing. We observed a substantial difference in the expression of miRNAs between PTH and DEX treated cells. Understanding the changes in miRNAome in human bone cells under different conditions could provide new insight in bone remodeling, specifically differentiation and functional properties of osteoblasts.Based on these studies, we furthermore identified Dlx5 as potential common target of miR-203 and miR-320b and these miRNAs negatively regulate BMP-2-induced osteoblast differentiation.To activate the RNAi pathway, siRNA or miRNA molecules must be conveyed into the cytoplasm of target cells. Since challenges in cellular delivery of these small silencing RNA molecules so far have limited their clinical utility, we developed a new siRNA design that demonstrates a novel carrier-free cellular delivery. This development could potentially have a major impact in RNAi therapeutics.In conclusion, this thesis provides novel insight of miRNAs that play a major role in the regulation of bone remodeling and differentiation and functional properties of osteoblasts. Our findings may have diagnostic and/or therapeutic implications in disorders of bone metabolism.


Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) are used to investigate molecular organization in Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) films of two kinds of lignins . The lignins were extracted from sugar cane bagasse using distinct extraction processes and are referred to here as ethanol lignin (EL) and saccharification lignin (SAC). AFM images show that LB films from EL have a flat surface in comparison with those from SAC. For the latter, ellipsoidal aggregates are seen oriented perpendicularly to the substrate. This result is confirmed by a combination of transmission and reflection FTIR measurements, which also point to lignin aggregates preferentially oriented perpendicularly to the substrate. For LB films from EL, on the other hand, aggregates are preferentially oriented parallel to the substrate, again consistent with the flat surface observed in AFM data. The vibrational spectroscopy data for cast films from both lignins show random molecular organization, as one should expect.


Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrinopathic disorder most commonly experienced by women of reproductive age, and it is characterized by a low-grade chronic inflammatory condition. Excessive fat deposit has been long considered as an etiological factor in the pathogenesis of this inflammatory condition. Currently, body mass index (BMI) or percentage of body fat is used as a marker to assess the body fat composition of a person. Objective: To determine whether BMI or body fat percentage (BFP) can be used as a better marker for measuring inflammation related to body fat accumulation in polycystic ovary syndrome patients. Materials and Methods: This study took place at the Center for Reproductive Medicine, Yasmin Clinic, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital from January to December 2015. In this cross-sectional study, 32 reproductive age women with PCOS according to the Rotterdam criteria (2003) participated. Women with hyperandrogenism caused by non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia, pregnant and lactating women, etc., were excluded. Some variables such as BMI, clinical hyperandrogenism sign, BFP, and inflammatory markers were assessed and statistically analyzed. Results: From a total of 32 subjects of the study, BFP had a significant positive correlation with procalcitonin levels (r=0.35; p=0.048), while BMI did not (r=0.27; p=0.131). Conclusion: BFP can be used as a better marker for measuring inflammation related to body fat accumulation in PCOS subjects.


Cellulosic biomass is one of the most abundant industrial waste products and an appealing substrate for biorefining strategies to produce biofuels by fermentation. The metabolic engineering of fermentative bacteria, such as the thermophile Geobacillus thermoglucosidasius, for high bioethanol yield is well characterised. This has been traditionally facilitated by an economically inefficient multistep process referred to as separate hydrolysis and fermentation (SHF), in which the enzymatic hydrolysis of the cellulosic substrate and fermentation of the liberated sugars is performed sequentially. Consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) involves performing these two process steps simultaneously, by either introducing cellulolytic capabilities into naturally fermentative organisms or implementing fermentative capabilities in cellulolytic organisms through metabolic engineering. CBP is believed to be a potentially cost-efficient and commercially viable way to produce cellulosic biofuels since the feedback inhibition of glycosyl hydrolases by monosaccharides as they are released is reduced by their rapid conversion through microbial fermentation. This results in faster rates of production and higher yields than those possible with SHF. Furthermore, CBP offers energy savings by removing the need for a complex multistage process with multiple heating and cooling steps. The aim of the present project is the engineering of CBP capabilities in the ethanologen G. thermoglucosidasius through the heterologous secretion of active glycosyl hydrolases into the extracellular milieu or employing surface-layer homology domains to attach them to the bacterial cell-wall. Iterative optimisation will serve to evaluate the feasibility of CBP as a strategy for production of biofuels from lignocellulose using G. thermoglucosidasius.


Purpose: To disseminate the current knowledge about the intestinal inflammatory processes in children and its approach by ultrasound (US) and provide necessary information to pediatricians for early diagnosis through this complementary method. Source of Data: The sources of data were selected by Medline, the international manuscripts, international medical journals more relevant in the last 20 years about Gray Scale and Color Doppler Ultrasound in the evaluation of inflammatory bowel disease in children and adolescents. Conclusions: Several authors have suggested that the ultrasound should be the first study in the diagnostic investigation process in suspected inflammatory bowel disease to determine the most affected region and monitor the therapy response. While colonoscopy still remains as the reference diagnostic method, the literature suggests that US can be an extremely useful tool in the context of the suspected diagnosis of a wide variety of intestinal inflammatory processes in children.


Methods for analysing unbalanced factorial designs can be traced back to the work of Frank Yates in the 1930s . Yet, still today the question on how his methods of fitting constants (Type II) and weighted squares of means (Type III) behave when negligible or insignificant interactions exist, is still unanswered. In this paper, by means of a simulation study, Type II and Type III ANOVA results are examined for all unbalanced structures originating from a 2x3 balanced factorial design within homogeneous groups (design types) accounting for structure, number of observations lost and which cells contained the missing observations. The two level factor is further analysed to test the null hypothesis, for both Type II and Type III analyses, that the unbalanced structures within each design type provide comparable F values. These results are summarised and the conclusion shows that this work agrees with statements made by Yates Burdick and Herr and Shaw and Mitchell-Olds, but there are some results which require further investigation.


This article argues that the ocean-liner setting of the 1934 Broadway musical Anything Goes provides a rich place from which to explore how such seemingly frivolous musical comedy can otherwise be viewed as socially discursive and critical. It explores the way Anything Goes can be viewed as a typical product of the Great Depression and suggests its function in re-envisioning identities in the face of the apparent failure of the 'American Dream'. The nature of the carnivalistic comedy offered in the shipboard narrative of Anything Goes further suggests that it offers an important salve for Depression-era anxiety. From this Bakhtinian perspective, Anything Goes is figured as a subversive space for the performance of social deviance of one sort or another. Bakhtin's vision of carnival spaces suggests that musical comedy has an important function in social renewal but it might be too utopian to articulate to 'real' society. However, Michel Foucault's notion of heterotopias allows for a re-connection of Bakhtin's utopianism with the 'real' world and thus serves to show that Anything Goes and, indeed, musical comedy more generally might be as vital a location as passenger ships for functional socio-critical discourse.


A high‐resolution coupled ocean‐wave‐atmosphere model (Uppsala University Coupled model, UU‐CM) of the Baltic Sea and the North Sea with improved representation of ocean‐wave‐atmosphere interaction processes is presented. In the UU‐CM model, the stress on the air‐sea interface is estimated as a balance of four stress terms, that is, the air‐side stress, ocean‐side stress, wave‐supported stress (absorption of momentum by the wave field), and the momentum flux from waves to currents (breaking waves). The vector differences between these four stress terms are considered in the coupled system. The turbulent kinetic energy flux induced by wave breaking, the Stokes‐Coriolis force and the Stokes drift material advection terms are added to the ocean circulation model component. Based on two‐month‐long (January and July) simulations, we find that the ocean‐wave‐atmosphere coupling has a significant influence on coastal areas. The coupled system captures the influence of surface currents and local systems such as coastal upwelling and their impact on the atmosphere. The wave‐current interaction enhances the upper ocean mixing and reduces the sea surface temperature in July significantly. However, the pattern of the wave‐current processes influences on the ocean current and waves are complex due to the stress differences in both magnitude and direction.


Abstract The study aims to understand what influence medical tourists, more precisely, Bangladeshi medical tourists' loyalty towards a private hospital. By considering four variables, which are: satisfaction, perceived value, trust, and destination image, this study conducts a survey-based research with 356 Bangladeshi patients who came to the hospital for medical treatment. The questionnaire, containing 42 items, covered the essence of four variables and the loyalty of the patient towards the hospital. The questionnaires were distributed from 1 st April to 30 th April, 2013. The results of the questionnaires were analyzed and interpreted in detail using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20.0. Descriptive analysis section applies mean score, frequency, and percent to summarize data. To prove the hypotheses, Pearson correlation coefficient was used to find the relationship among satisfaction, perceived value, trust, destination image, and loyalty toward medical tourism in the private hospital.  The result shows that medical tourists' satisfaction, perceived value, trust, and destination image, all have a significant influence on tourists' loyalty towards medical tourism at this private hospital. The findings from this study should help all parties concerned not only in realizing the ongoing trends of medical tourism but also it will help them to plan their future to acquire the best outcome. Recommendation has been proposed for the hospital management, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), medical tourism sector for further action. Keywords: medical tourists, satisfaction, perceived value, trust, destination image


This study investigates the distribution of phthalateacid esters (PAEs) in groundwater from some power stations in Delta State. Groundwater samples were collected from eight power transmission and distribution stations. Concentrations (μg/L) of six phthalate acid esters compounds in the groundwater ranged from 0.000–2.547(DMP), 0.053–0.180(DEP), 0.100–0.443 (DBP), 0.400-0.660(DEHP) and 0.000-0.020 (DnOP), while BBP was not detected in all the locations. Lowest total PAEs concentration was recorded in Edjeba Station (0.994±0.040μg/L) while the highest concentration was recorded in Mofo Station (3.380±0.012μg/L). Analysis of variance showed significant difference in concentration of DMP (p<0.5) from the eight transmission stations. DMP, DEP and DBP concentration in groundwater were found to be at level that does not pose immediate threat. Despite this, it would be advisable to continue to monitor the presence of these substances in water. DEHP content was high in most samples from the different stations and this is of serious concern, because it has been proven to be carcinogenic. It is advised that most of the old dilapidated transformers and other electrical equipment containing organic contaminant such polychlorobiphenyl (PCB) which is a major contributor of phthalate acids into water bodiesbe replaced with new ones and concrete bundwall built round the transformers to prevent unwholesome seepages into the environment. There should also be appropriate storage, decontamination and disposal of contaminated units prior to final disposal. Decommissioned transformers and equipment containing PCB should be stored on a concrete pad with curbs sufficient to contain the liquid contents. Keywords: Transmission stations, Phthalates acid esters, Underground water, GC-MS analysis


A male aged 70 became unwell during work on the motor of his boat. He had an acute myocardial infarction, complicated by arrhythmias, which had probably been triggered by carbon monoxide intoxication. After treatment with, among other things, oxygen he recovered. Although the patient had experienced mild angina pectoris in the past, he had been symptom-free for years without medication. It is therefore suggested that the carbon monoxide intoxication played an important part in this case.


The unique potential of radiation thermometry for temperature measurements ranging from non-contact temperature control of numerous industrial production processes to climate research by remote sensing of the Earth requires the accurate knowledge of the radiation properties of a material, i.e. its spectral emissivity. A variety of techniques for the emissivity measurements are available but in many cases they do not meet the wide range of requirements posed by modern science and industry and do not provide sufficiently accurate results with reliable uncertainty values. Therefore, a measurement setup and a validated method for highly accurate directional spectral emissivity, total directional emissivity and total hemispherical emissivity measurements under vacuum from 4 μm to 100 μm and from -40 °C to 600 °C with very low and validated uncertainties was developed and is presented in this work. The measurements, using the newly developed Reduced Background Calibration Facility (RBCF) of PTB, are traceable to the International Temperature Scale of 1990 (ITS-90).
     The development and design of a dedicated vacuum sample holder for emissivity measurements, the highly accurate metrological characterization of the vacuum reference blackbodies and the developed method for calculation, which considers the complete radiation budget, are described in detail and allow the performance of very demanding measurement tasks. The setup has been successfully applied in the European Metrology Research Program (EMRP) within the projects MetEOC and MetEOC2, providing the traceability of atmospheric measurements with the instrument GLORIA with the required low uncertainty of less than 100 mK. The thermal emissivity of absorber coatings for solar thermal electricity generation could be measured at the RBCF at the operating temperature of 600 °C with a standard uncertainty of less than 0.005. These results can be used to systematically improve the efficiency of high temperature solar thermal absorbers in the future. Other examples of emissivity measurements for various materials presented in this work illustrate the broad capability of the developed method and facility.


The present contribution, on the basis of a reconstruction of Antique and Medieval cultural landscapes, proposes the analysis of a Central-Western area of Sardinia embracing the Southern ridge of the Montiferru volcanic mountain chain. The examined region, comprise within the modern territories of Bonarcado, Milis, Narbolia and Seneghe belonging to Oristano's Province, widens over an area of circa 145 square kilometres. The region is morphologically characterized by limited plains and mountains and prevailing hills. The reasons beyond the choice of such territories as a basis for a landscape archaeology approach are manifold. Among other things can be highlighted a substantial geo-morphological homogeneity, natural borders able to circumscribe the region together with the intrinsic characteristic of the territory as an in-between zone among the coastal and plain region of the Campidano and the mountainous internal regions. The region has also been a boundary area in different historical phases characterized by abundance of natural resources which have influenced the original human settlement and subsequent settlement dynamics. The research presented here, using instruments and strategies typical of landscape archaeology together with a systematic and holistic approach to the territory and the historical evolution has attempted to reconstruct settlement dynamics and landscape transformations, in diachronic order, from early settlement to the end of Medieval times.


Short abstract (300 words) Previous research has shown that parental background is an important predictor of union dissolution, with the intergenerational transmission of divorce gaining the most attention. Next to parental divorce is parental socio-economic status (SES) also shown to be an important determinant for union dissolution decisions. Although the findings from previous studies are not consistent, most existing studies show that the higher the status of the parents, the more likely individuals are to dissolve their own union. However, all these studies are conducted in a single country, while it can be expected that the strength of the impact of parental status on union dissolution depends on the societal context and the specific opportunities this contexts offers. Therefore, the current study aims at better understanding the link between parental socioeconomic status (including both the educational and the occupational level of parents) and the risk on union dissolution from a cross-national comparative perspective. First, we test whether there is cross-national variation in the link between parental SES and union dissolution. Second, attention is paid to the mediating role played by parental divorce and own educational attainment. Third, we analyze possible country level indicators which might explain this crossnational variation in the impact of parental SES. In this study we focus on two country level indicators; cultural segregation in the intergenerational transmission of liberal values and the level of income inequality within a country. In this study we examine the dissolution from first union, irrespective of whether this was a marriage of unmarried cohabitation. The data used is from the Generations and Gender Programme (GGP). The GGP is a set of national Generations and Gender Surveys (GGS) consisting of 19 countries. Multilevel discrete time hazard models are estimated to incorporate both individual and contextual level factors into the explanatory model.


A key element in conducting industrial organization research is establishing a clear, well-defined and repeatable process to identify and describe the stakeholders and concepts of the analysis across a range of industries and topics. In the global value chain (GVC) research approach, this is divided into two steps: value chain mapping (identifying who and where) and value chain analysis (what and why). This chapter focuses on mapping – the process of identifying the structural elements along the value chain, including firms, products, activities and places. It includes steps and data sources to define the scope of an industry using a combination of international standardized classification systems and insights from existing research and fieldwork. The approach is presented using an industry-neutral value chain visual template along with industry-specific examples of how the process has been applied in existing GVC studies.


The relationship between blood pressure and hyperthyroidism is significant if some views of the present day are true. It is common knowledge that there is an increased pulse pressure in hyperthyroidism. Statements have been made that if this were continued over a sufficient time, cardiovascular changes and permanent arterial hypertension might ensue. Furthermore, it is the belief of some writers that the nontoxic adenomatous goiter can lead to similar changes over a period of years. There has been no adequate survey, as far as I am aware, to show that either active hyperthyroidism or prolonged but slight over-activity of the thyroid in otherwise clinically nontoxic goiter leads to permanent cardiovascular degeneration, hypertension or cardiac enlargement. In observing patients who have been operated on for toxic goiter, one frequently finds the blood pressure higher after operation than before, although the basal metabolic rate is normal and the patient is clinically free


[reaction: see text] The radical-initiated beta-ketoalkylation of haloalkanes with tributylstannyl enolates is described. Stannyl enolates derived from aromatic ketones are reactive toward the homolytic beta-ketoalkylation of simple haloalkanes as well as those activated by an electron-withdrawing group. The reactivity of stannyl enolates as radical alkylating agents can be utilized for an efficient three-component coupling reaction among stannyl enolates, haloalkanes, and electron-deficient alkenes.


The CO oxidation pattern of a nanocomposite MnCeOx catalyst (M5C1; Mnat/Ceat, 5) in the range of 293–533 K (P, 1 atm) has been probed under a kinetic regime, varying reagent pressure (p0CO, 0.01–0.025 atm; λ0, 1), ratio (λ0, 0.25–4.0) and CO2 co-feeding (0.05–0.10 atm). Activity data indicate fractional orders on pCO (0.6 ± 0.1) and pO2 (0.4 ± 0.1), with an activation energy of 40 ± 3 kJ mol−1, and a negative kinetic effect of CO2 co-feeding due to competitive adsorption processes. Coupled with systematic evidence on the reactivity and mobility of catalyst oxygen and surface intermediates, kinetic data disclose a concerted redox mechanism of Langmuir–Hinshelwood type, which starts by abstraction of O-atoms from surface active MnIV centres (r.d.s.), and is sustained by adsorption of diatomic oxygen species on O-vacancies. The derivative and integral forms of the formal rate equation explain the empirical kinetics, predicting the activity pattern of the MnCeOx catalyst in the range of 293–533 K.


Protonation of adenine carrying a Pt(II) moiety either at N7, N3, or N1 is possible in solution, but the site of protonation is influenced by the location of the Pt(II) electrophile and to some extent also by the overall charge of the metal entity (+2, +1, 0, -1), hence the other ligands (NH(3), Cl(-), OH(-)) bound to Pt(II). Quantum chemical calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) have been carried out for intrinsic protonation energies of adenine complexes carrying the following Pt(II) species at either of the three ring N atoms: [Pt(NH(3))(3)](2+) (1), trans- [Pt(NH(3))(2)Cl](+) (2a), cis-[Pt(NH(3))(2)Cl](+) (2b), trans-[Pt(NH(3))(2)Cl(2)] (3a), cis-[Pt(NH(3))Cl(2)] (3b), [PtCl(3)](-) (4), trans-[Pt(NH(3))(2)OH](+) (5a), cis-[Pt(NH(3))(2)(OH)](+) (5b), trans-[Pt(NH(3))(OH)(2)] (6a), cis-[Pt(NH(3))(OH)(2)] (6b), and [Pt(OH)(3)](-) (7). The data have been compared with results derived from solution studies (water) and X-ray crystallography, whenever available. The electrostatic effects associated with the charge of the metal entity have the major influence on the calculated intrinsic (gas phase) proton affinities, unlike the condensed phase data. Nevertheless, the relative gas phase trends correlate surprisingly well with condensed phase data; i.e., variation of the pK(a) values measured in solution is consistent with the calculated gas phase protonation energies. In addition to a systematic study of the ring proton affinities, proton transfer processes within the platinated adenine species were often observed when investigating Pt adducts with OH(-) ligands, and they are discussed in more detail. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study attempting to find a systematic correlation between gas phase and condensed phase data on protonation of metalated nucleobases. The gas phase data provide a very useful complement to the condensed phase and X-ray experiments, showing that the gas phase studies are capable of valuable predictions and contribute to our understanding of the solvent and counterion effects on metal-assisted proton shift processes.


ANALYSIS OF FLEXURAL STRENGTH AND MONOTONIC LOAD TO FALIURE FOLLOWING SIMULATED CHAIRSIDE ADJUSTMENTS IN LITHIUM DISILICATE GLASS-CERAMIC Ali H Ramadhan, DDS Marquette University, 2017 Introduction: There are no studies regarding e.max Press that evaluate post-adjustment healing protocols and their effect on the load to failure in a clinically relevant test. It is essential to find the ultimate treatment protocol which will help clinicians preserve the physical properties of the ceramic restoration after adjustment. Material and Methods: The total number of samples used in this study was 440 IPS e.max press discs. The discs were 15 mm in diameter and 1 mm of thickness. The material was tested for flexural strength and monotonic load to failure. The test was done in two parts and with the same tests. The flexural strength contained 40 specimens per group while the load to failure group had 20 specimens per group. In the biaxial flexural test, the specimens were loaded at 0.5 mm/min until failure using a ring on ring arrangement and the biaxial strength was recorded. The monotonic load to failure specimens were cemented with a resin cement on epoxy resin blocks, and loaded with a 50-mm hemisphere at a cross head speed of 0.5 mm/min. The tests were performed on a universal testing machine (Instron). Weibull statistics determined intergroup differences. Results: In Part I: regarding the flexural strength tests, the Weibull plot and likelihood ratio contour plot revealed a significant difference between the control group and the other groups. Regarding the monotonic load to failure tests, the Weibull plot and likelihood ratio contour plot revealed no significant difference between the control and glazed groups. The diamond adjusted group was significantly different from the control group and the glazed group. In Part II: Regarding the monotonic load to failure, the Weibull plot and likelihood ratio contour plot revealed no significant difference between the tested groups. The strength of all the groups when subjected to glaze treatment after divesting increased in comparison with groups in Part I. Conclusions: Glazing treatment improved the physical properties of adjusted IPS e.max Press discs when subjected to biaxial flexural test and monotonic load to failure. When clinical adjustments are made on the IPS e.max Press intaglio surface, a subsequent glazing treatment is recommended.


Summary Fibrin metabolism is influenced by many factors. The velocity of fibrin formation, genetic polymorphisms, fibrinolytic features and the structure of the fibrin clot are determinants of fibrin turnover. Oral contraceptives (OCs) have significant impact on the haemostatic system, by increasing the concentration of coagulation factors, plasminogen and tissue plasminogen activator activity, and decreasing the concentration of haemostatic inhibitors. The present study addresses the influence of OCs on fibrin structure and fibrin metabolism. The study included 70 women treated with seven different OC-formulations. Blood was collected at baseline and after six months of OCs. The plasma concentration of fibrinogen, thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT), plasminogen, plasmin-antiplasmin complex (PAP), D-Dimer and thrombin generation measures were determined. Fibrin structure measures and fibrin clot lysis not affected by the plasma concentration of plasminogen activators and inhibitors were determined. OCs increased the concentration of fibrinogen, TAT, plasminogen, PAP and D-dimer significantly and affected measures of thrombin generation (p<0.001). The maximal optical density of fibrin (p<0.001), the fibrin fibre density (p=0.03), fibrin fibre diameter (p=0.003), fibrin mass-length ratio (p<0.001) and lysis per hour (p<0.001) increased significantly upon OC-treatment. Lysis per hour was not correlated to the concentration of plasminogen. We conclude that the effect of OCs on the coagulation system is balanced by alterations in fibrin structure, facilitating clot lysis and contributing to the fibrinolytic susceptibility already present in women treated with OC. These alterations may counterbalance the OC-induced increased thrombin generation and reduced coagulation inhibitory potential, contributing to maintenance of the haemostatic balance in women receiving OCs.


This work had the aim to study effect of systemic inflammation in patients with COPD and COPD with arterial hypertension (AH) based on the state of endothelium and the degree of atherosclerosis of common carotid arteries. The study included 51 men (mean age 50.9 +/- 3 yr) 20 of whom (mean age 54.5 +/- 13.2 yr) had grade I-II COPD (GOLD, 2006) and 1-2 grade AH (WHO, 1999). The patients were allocated to 2 groups, one comprising 11 subjects with isolated AH (mean age 47.5 +/- 8.4 yr) the other 10 men with isolated COPD (mean age 51.8 +/- 4.6 yr). The control group included 10 men (mean age 49.6 +/- 5.3 yr). IMT, C-reactive protein, and blood lipid spectrum were determined in all the patients. Patients with COPD with and without AH developed atherosclerosis of common carotid arteries caused by persistent systemic inflammation. Increased serum C-reactive protein and IMT in patients of the two groups contributed to the initiation and progress of atherosclerosis of common carotid arteries.


The continuing maintenance of protein homeostasis and the safeguarding of proteomic integrity is essential for the survival of complex cellular systems under stressful conditions. Proteostasis is maintained by a complex system of protective pathways that involve several classes of molecular chaperones, now referred to as the chaperonome. The elaborate interplay of these components averts detrimental protein aggregation and supports proteins in resuming their functional fold. In skeletal muscle tissues, molecular chaperones protect contractile functions throughout fibre adaptations to changed physiological demands and prevent tissue damage during acute phases of protein misfolding or prolonged periods of proteotoxic stress. This results in considerable changes in the expression profile of individual members of the large family of heat shock proteins. Systematic proteomic surveys of skeletal muscle tissues have revealed that the concentration of small heat shock proteins is especially affected following strenuous exercise, in various neuromuscular disorders and during the natural aging process. Of the 10 identified members of the small heat shock protein HSPB family, HSPB1 (Hsp25), HSPB2 (MKBP), HSPB3 (Hsp27), HSPB4 (αA-crystallin), HSPB5 (αB-crystallin), HSPB6 (Hsp20), HSPB7 (cardiovascular cvHsp) and HSPB8 (Hsp22) are clearly present in skeletal muscle tissues. This review outlines the proteomic identification of small heat shock proteins and their muscle-specific expression and induction patterns in health and disease. Since HSPB molecules are of relatively low molecular mass, belong to the markedly soluble type of proteins and represent critical pro-survival proteins that are intrinsically involved in the prevention of stress-induced fibre damage, they present ideal muscle-associated biomarker candidates for the establishment of superior diagnostic and therapy-monitoring approaches to assess stress-related skeletal muscle degeneration.


This study describes the verification of the Hydrologic Evaluation of Leachate Production and Quality (HELPQ) computer program using physical model comparisons. HELPQ facilitates the design of confined disposal facilities (CDFs) of contaminated dredged material by estimating leachate production rates and leachate quality. To verify the HELPQ model results, physical models of CDFs were constructed and experiments conducted. The quantity of leachate produced and the salinity results from the physical models were compared with the HELPQ model predictions. Salinity concentrations were used as a basis of water quality comparison between the physical models and HELPQ. The results indicate that the HELPQ model overestimated the leachate rates, as well as the salinity concentrations. The relative percent error between the HELPQ and physical models were 19% for the cumulative leachate collected and 23% for the cumulative mass of salt collected.


In January 2016, the Canadian infrastructure company TransCanada Corporation filed a notice of intent to sue the United States government in a North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) Chapter 11 arbitration over the Keystone XL pipeline. At the center of this dispute is the State Department's refusal to permit the construction of an oil pipeline between Canada and Nebraska. TransCanada claims that the State Department ignored its own favorable environmental assessments of the pipeline multiple times and rejected the proposal to placate misinformed activists and foreign governments. The State Department acknowledges that it denied the permit to enhance the Obama Administration's credibility at the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris, with the long-term goal of reducing emissions through collective political action. This Essay situates the TransCanada arbitration within the history of investment arbitration, highlighting recent collisions between arbitral regimes and the modern regulatory state. After briefly discussing the history of investment arbitration, we discuss in depth the collision's most startling fallout so far- the Clayton v. Canada award on liability. Finally, we suggest how the TransCanada tribunal should view the Clayton award.


The most common renal cancers of childhood is Wilms tumour .However, majority of the cases can be treated and curable. The genetic changes related Wilms tumour have been illustrated from the various studies of clinical case studies and undifferentiated dna sequencing of tumour genomes all these approaches together defined the overview of the genes that are active in Wilms tumour, in which many of the genes are indirectly linked to the fetal neophrogenesis. Improvement in the understanding of germ line and somatic genetic changes that are linked to the Wilms tumour may help in better patient outcomes. Recognizing the favoured mutations that led to the potential new targets with some new compounds undergoing testing in early phase trials.


While it is widely recognized that Parkinson's disease (PD) is accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction in dopaminergic (DA) neurons, the etiology of the disease remains elusive. Discovery of the implication of α-synuclein as the main constituent of Lewy bodies has driven research in the last decade, but the nature of the relationship between α-synuclein and mitochondrial dysfunction has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we use a patient-derived stem cell model of PD, comparing control cells with patient cells containing a triplication of or a mutation (A53T) in the SNCA gene. Using a long-term (90 days) culture approach, we analysed mitochondrial trafficking in cultured dopaminergic neurons. We demonstrated that mitochondrial trafficking is impaired in PD neurons when compared to control neurons, and mitochondria are frequently fragmented in patient-derived DA neurons. These results indicate that endogenous expression of α-synuclein in PD patient iPS-derived dopaminergic neurons results in mitochondrial pathology. Our results suggest that mitochondrial fragmentation and impaired trafficking are early events that contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction in PD.


ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) rarely occurs among patients 18 to 34 years old. Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare cause of STEMI and is frequently described among patients in peripartum period. SCAD has a high mortality rate if not recognized and treated immediately. We present a case of SCAD presenting as STEMI in a 19-year-old nonpregnant patient. A 19-year-old female with chronic kidney disease, complained of sudden onset substernal chest pain. Physical examination showed a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg, HR of 112 bpm, with note of rales, pedal edema, and cold clammy extremities. Electrocardiogram showed ST-elevation in leads V3 to V6. Cardiac troponin was elevated and echocardiography revealed left ventricular segmental hypokinesia and depressed systolic function. Patient was diagnosed with acute anterolateral wall STEMI. Coronary angiogram revealed total occlusion of the mid-segment of the left anterior descending artery (LAD), while the rest of the coronary arteries were strikingly normal. After initial balloon angioplasty and stenting of the mid LAD, coronary artery dissection was noted at the distal LAD. A stent was successfully deployed, achieving TIMI flow grade III with no residual stenosis. She remained stable and was discharged improved. STEMI rarely happens in the young adults. Moreover, literature highlights the rarity of STEMI caused by SCAD. SCAD usually occurs among young pregnant patients without risk factors for atherosclerosis. We highlighted the significance of suspecting SCAD among young patients who present with STEMI and prompt treatment with revascularization in clinical situations such as this case. SCAD remains to be a rare cause of STEMI. However, SCAD should be considered among young individuals with STEMI. Treatment is primarily medical unless there is persistent chest pain and/or ischemic ECG changes, hemodynamic instability, or unstable arrhythmia, where revascularization is necessary. J Med Cases. 2018;9(6):164-169 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc3052e


Programmed cell death is a prominent feature of embryonic development and is essential in matching the number of neurons to the target tissues that are innervated. Although a decrease in neuronal number which coincides with peripheral synaptogenesis has been well documented in the avian ciliary ganglion, it has not been clear whether cell death also occurs earlier. We observed TUNEL-positive neurons as early as stage 24, with a large peak at stage 29. This cell death at stage 29 was followed by a statistically significant (P < 0.0001) decrease in total neuron number at stage 31. The total number of neurons was recovered by stage 33/34. This suggested that dying neurons were replaced by new neurons. This replacement process did not involve proliferation because bromodeoxyuridine applied at stages 29 and 31 was unable to label neurons harvested at stage 33/34. The peak of cell death at stage 29 was increased 2.3-fold by removal of the optic vesicle and was reduced by 50% when chCNTF was overexpressed. Taken together, these results suggest that the regulation of neuron number in the ciliary ganglion is a dynamic process involving both cell death and neural replacement from postmitotic precursors prior to differentiation and innervation of target tissues.


A static magnetic field and an alternating current are imposed on a metallic alloy during solidification for a crystal alignment of the primary phase. A Sn-10%Pb is selected as a sample because its primary phase is expected to have an anisotropic nature in magnetic susceptibility. In the x-ray diffraction pattern of the sample solidified without the magnetic field, the first and second highest peaks are (101) and (211) planes. On the other hand, those solidified with the magnetic field are (200) and (220) planes which are magnetically preferred planes. That is, the primary phase crystals in the sample solidified with the magnetic field are aligned to the specific direction.


Weft knitted pattern design is one of the most important compositions of textile CAD. Traditional pattern design has a higher request on designers, which can not meet the demand on product development. This paper introduced an automatic approach of weft knitted pattern design, put forward a wave filter which is used to process images based on mathematical functions, described its theory and its algorithm in Visual C++ environment, the result is satisfactory. This method provided a new way for weft knitted pattern design.


Endothelin-1 (ET-1) and nitric oxide (NO) are potent vasoactive factors known to play a role in vascular remodeling. This study assessed the temporal expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), preproET-1, and ETA and ETB receptor mRNAs in the rat carotid artery after balloon injury using quantitative competitive reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qcRT-PCR) and the ribonuclease protection assay (RPA). Levels of ET-1 increased sharply after arterial injury, peaking (5.1-fold) at 2 days. This was associated with a dramatic increase in the expression of ETB (63-fold) and ETA (158-fold) receptor mRNA, peaking at days 1 and 2, respectively. Expression of eNOS was not detectable immediately after balloon injury, consistent with complete denudation, but reappeared after day 2 and increased to preinjury levels by day 14. The recovery of eNOS expression mirrored the return of ET-1 and ET receptor expression to baseline levels. The results confirm profound upregulation of the ET system in this model of arterial injury and suggest a critical role for eNOS expression and re-endothelialization in the normalization of ET-1 and ET receptor expression during the recovery phase, events that may be important in long-term arterial patency.