Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease that predominantly affects middle-aged women; fatigue and pruritus are the most common symptoms at presentation. Liver function tests are consistent with cholestasis and reveal an elevation of serum alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase with or without elevation of aminotransferase levels. Histologically, PBC is characterized by the destruction of the intrahepatic small bile ducts and subsequently fibrosis. The serological hallmark of the disease is the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies, which are found in 95% of patients with PBC. The antimitochondrial antibodies are directed against the 2-oxo-acid dehydrogenase complexes located on the inner membrane of the mitochondria. PBC generally slowly progresses, even over decades, and may lead to liver failure. In symptomatic patients, advanced age, elevated serum bilirubin levels, decreased serum albumin levels, and cirrhosis each correlate with shortened survival. Immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory drugs have been used in the treatment of PBC based on the presumed autoimmune pathogenesis, but satisfactory agents leading to complete reversal or cure of the disease are not available. At present ursodeoxycholic acid appears to be the only effective therapy in preventing or delaying the need for liver transplantation and improving survival. However, a number of patients receiving ursodeoxycholic acid still develop progressive disease and require transplantation; transplantation is the only effective therapy at the end stage of the disease.


Animals actively sample from the sensory world by generating complex patterns of movement that evolve in three dimensions. At least some of these movements have been shown to influence neural codes in sensory areas. For example, in primary visual cortex (V1), locomotion-related neural activity influences sensory gain, encodes running speed, and predicts the direction of visual flow. As most experiments exploring movement-related modulation of V1 have been performed in head-fixed animals, it remains unclear whether or how the naturalistic movements used to interact with sensory stimuli– like head orienting–influence visual processing. Here we show that 3D head orienting movements modulate V1 neuronal activity in a direction-specific manner that also depends on the presence or absence of light. We identify two largely independent populations of movement-direction-tuned neurons that support this modulation, one of which is direction-tuned in the dark and the other in the light. Finally, we demonstrate that V1 gains access to a motor efference copy related to orientation from secondary motor cortex, which has been shown to control head orienting movements. These results suggest a mechanism through which sensory signals generated by purposeful movement can be distinguished from those arising in the outside world, and reveal a pervasive role of 3D movement in shaping sensory cortical dynamics.


Privatisation has begun to accelerate in India and Pakistan. However, it is not clear that a change in ownership per se will contribute significantly to a more rapid, efficient, and equitable growth unless policies that ensure competition for these enterprises and remove distortions in factor markets also are undertaken at the same time or prior to privatisation. After a brief discussion of the transition from state-led development to more market-oriented policies and gradual opening to world markets, this paper reviews some of the analytical literature on privatisation and regulation. The translation of these theories into concrete policy suggestions is difficult for countries such as Pakistan and India, where many of the assumptions behind the theories do not hold. However, the results of empirical studies on past privatisations around the world do hold lessons for South Asia. Similarly, theories of regulation offer only broad recommendations, most notably (for South Asia) that regulation is not the best way to redistribute resources. The final section of the paper reviews India's and Pakistan's experience with privatisation thus far. Attempted privatisation of electricity in India serves as an example of the need for more attention to regulation, while the transfer of ownership has led to better service at lower cost in the telecommunications sector. Pakistan's privatisation programme appears to have had similarly mixed results, though it is difficult to come to firm conclusions with the evidence at hand.


The following describes a culturally relevant mathematics and science content program implemented by preservice teachers (PSTs) at Family Math/Science Learning Events (FM/SLEs) conducted through two different university programs in south Texas. These experiences are required course activities designed to inform PSTs of the importance of interacting with Latino families' culture and language in after school settings. Data were collected from elementary PSTs attending FMLEs and include interactions recorded during the FMLE and interviews with Latino non-English-speaking parents after the event. Anecdotal data were also included from parents' interviews collected during culturally relevant Family Science Learning Events. Researchers investigated the following questions: (1) what did Latino parents and PSTs report learning from the FMLE and, (2) how do perceptions toward Latino parents change when PSTs are given the opportunity to interact with and interview Latino parents? Results show that PSTs perceptions of Latino parents can be changed through these events. Implications for teacher preparation programs include providing PSTs with opportunities for participation in FM/SLEs that incorporate planning and teaching culturally relevant math and science activities. The following model of acceptance requires PSTs to identify and reconstruct misconceptions and perceptions of parents, especially non-English-speaking Latino parents.


We explore the possibility of operating a self-amplified spontaneous emission free electron laser with a storage ring. We use a semi-analytical model to obtain the evolution inside the undulator, by taking into account the interplay on the laser dynamics due to the induced energy spread and the radiation damping. We obtain the Renieri's limit for the stationary output power, and discuss the possibility of including in our model the effect of the beam instabilities.


PURPOSE
To determine potential dosimetric benefits of image guided adaptive radiation therapy treatment (IGART) strategies for intermediate risk prostate cancer via automated virtual clinical trials (VCTs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS
A 19 patient cohort with 8-13 CT images was used to compare different IGART strategies. The IMRT prescription was 46 Gy/23 fractions to the prostate and seminal-vesicle PTVs, followed by a 40 Gy/20 fractions prostate boost. For each patient, daily IGART imaging was simulated by random selection from available images. The VCTs simulated three different IGART-IMRT strategies; (A0) initial planning only with 5 mm PTV margins; (A1) daily re-planning without considering prior dose; and (A2) online daily re-planning for each fraction considering prior dose obtained via deformable dose mapping (A1 and A2, no PTV margin). For each strategy, daily dose was deformably mapped using Demons-based displacement vector fields and accumulated to estimate the treatment dose. Strategies were compared via dosimetric adherence to constraints (CTV D98=86.4, D2<94.6Gy), and objectives (CTV D98<86.4, D2<91.2Gy; bladder D2<90, D20<70, D30<56, D50<39, EUD=0 Gy; and rectum D2<83, D20<70, D30<56, D50<39, EUD=0 Gy).

RESULTS
A0 had larger doses to 20, 30, and 50% rectal (30±20%) and bladder (40±20%) volumes than A1 and A2 (p<0.001). Rectal and bladder D2s were also respectively higher in A0 by (15±13%) and (24±14%) (p=0.002 and 0.00001 respectively). Comparing A1 and A2, no significant differences were found in prostate D98 (p=0.4) or bladder D2 (p=0.33). Significant differences were found for the rectum (D5,A2>D5A1, p=0.02) .

CONCLUSION
IGART utilizing daily re-planning (A1 and A2) has dosimetric advantages over conventional IMRT for critical structures, particularly high-dose regions, without compromising PTV coverage. Due to inherent deformation vector field inaccuracies, daily re-planning based on prior dose (A2) showed poor rectal sparing than A1. NIH grant P01 CA 116602 and Philips Medical Systems.


The evolution of cooperation—costly behavior that benefits others—faces one clear obstacle. Namely, cooperators are always at a competitive disadvantage relative to defectors, individuals that reap the same social benefits, but evade the personal cost. One solution to this problem involves genetic hitchhiking, where the allele encoding cooperative behavior becomes linked to a beneficial mutation. While traditionally seen as a passive process driven purely by chance, here we explore a more active form of hitchhiking. Specifically, we model hitchhiking in the context of adaptation to a stressful environment by cooperators and defectors with spatially limited dispersal. Under such conditions, clustered cooperators reach higher local densities, thereby experiencing more opportunities for mutations than defectors. Thus, the allele encoding cooperation has a greater probability of hitchhiking with alleles conferring stress adaptation. We label this probabilistic enhancement the "Hankshaw effect" after the character Sissy Hankshaw, whose anomalously large thumbs made her a singularly effective hitchhiker. Using an agent-based model, we demonstrate that there exists a broad set of conditions allowing the evolution of cooperation through the Hankshaw effect. We discuss the feasibility of our theoretical assumptions for natural systems, not only for the case of cooperation, but also for other costly social behaviors such as spite. The primary elements of our model, including genetic hitchhiking and population structure, have been discussed separately in previous models exploring the evolution of cooperation. However, the combination of these elements has not been appreciated as a solution to the problem of cooperation.


The astonishing diversity of ocean life will wow you in this riveting book, perfect for all ages, by marine scientist Nancy Knowlton. Citizens of the Sea reveals the most intriguing organisms in the ocean, captured in action by skilled underwater photographers from National Geographic and the Census of Marine Life. As you read lively vignettes about sea creatures' names, defenses, migration, mating habits, and more, you'll be amazed at wonders like; The almost inconceivable number of creatures in the marine world. From the bounty of microbes in one drop of seawater, we can calculate that there are more individuals in the oceans than stars in the universe; The sophisticated sensory abilities that help these animals survive. For many, the standard five senses are just not enough; The incredible distances that seabirds and other species cover. Some will feed in both Arctic and Antarctic waters within a single year;The odd relationships common in the marine world. From a dental hygienist for fish to a walrus's one-night stand, you'll find beauty, practicality, and plenty of eccentricity in sea-life socialization.


This book is a critical study of Iranian dance and the works of Iranian-American female dancers in exile. Focusing on the study of contemporary Iranian dance through analysis of the choreographies of three female dancers in diaspora (namely Aisan Hoss, Shahrzad Khorsandi, and Banafsheh Sayyad), this research is among the first of its kind. Elaheh Hatami investigates the transformation of professional Iranian dance and discusses the role of relocation and displacement in its performance. She argues that Iranian dance and Iranian female dancers have always been in exile - not only in a physical sense, but also in the metaphorical sense of ›exile‹ implying foreignness, exclusion, and marginalization.


To deter and punish illegal collusions antitrust authorities run costly investigations and levy fines on detected and convicted wrongdoers. According to Becker (1968) the magnitude of fines and the detection rates are substitutable in their deterrence effect. We investigate this proposition through a market experiment, and study the effects of different fine and detection rate combinations (with constant expected fines) on cartel activity, prices and cartel stability. Our results show that in the absence of a leniency program, complying with the Beckerian Proposition, detection rates and fines are indeed substitutable in deterring cartels. With a leniency program, however, due to behavioral bias a regime that embodies low detection rate and high fine lowers the overall incidence of cartelization. The market price in this regime is also significantly lower than in a high detection rate low fine regime. Finally, irrespective of the presence of a leniency program, the different detection rate – fine combinations do not affect the cartel stability. These findings indicate that antitrust agencies can rely on behavioral biases to economize on enforcement costs and achieve a higher degree of deterrence by reducing investigative efforts and increasing the fine level.


Nowadays, high expectations are set for a digitally enabled circular economy (CE), to enhance resource efficiency. Tracing, tracking, and storing information is most important for this. In this paper, the application of Internet of Things (IoT) and Distributed Ledger Technology (Blockchain) are hence discussed by presenting the case of professional Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) in Italy. Within the context of CE, prevention of electronic waste (WEEE) is extremely relevant as it is a fast-growing waste stream, and the products contain environmentally damaging substances as well as valuable and rare materials. The use of a proper combination of IoT and blockchain can help the producers to keep control on products until EEE end-of-life, while promoting CE strategies and supporting decision-making. Based on the outcomes of five interviews conducted in 2019 to companies of the EEE sector, potential improvements in the EEE end-of-use management are discussed. After providing the definition of requirements for both the technical solution and its testing are provided, three solution variations and the related business models are created and presented, as well as considerations on their environmental and economic impacts. The study shows how digital technologies can support the appropriate and circular management of EEE products and WEEE.


Cost optimization is an important criterion in technology deployment for developing regions. While IEEE 802.11-based long-distance networks may provide a cost-effective option to connect remote villages, planning such a network to cover the villages in a given region can be a non-trivial task. This is especially so since the antenna tower cost is the dominant cost in such scenarios. In this thesis, we consider the problem of topology planning in the context of 802.11-based long-distance rural networks. Our first contribution is the formulation of this problem in terms of its constraints and the optimization metric. We find the problem to be of combinatorial nature, and hence not scalable for large input sets. Our next contribution is in breaking down the problem into its constituent sub-parts some of which are independent, this makes the solution procedure tractable. Next we propose several searching and pruning strategies in generation of an optimal solution. We then present a set of results generated by the algorithm. We have been able to find topologies for sets of nodes of size 31 (so far). For a sub-set of the Ashwini (31 out of 34 nodes) project, a long distance rural network currently being deployed in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh we have been able to show a potential cost benefit of the order of 15 times on their tower cost budget (based on available data for already commissioned towers), by improving the process of assigning tower heights. Also careful topology planning led to a further 22 % savings over their current deployment plan. Another fact to be borne in mind is the current deployment utilizes three independent WiFi channel while our solution only uses one channel. A final contribution of this thesis is the discussion of further work necessary in this domain.


This study, using data from a statewide survey (n = 332), examined teachers' practices regarding the inclusion of guest speakers to cover sexuality content. More than half of teachers (58%) included guest speakers. In multivariate analyses, teachers who taught high school, had professional preparation in health education, or who received professional development covering sexually transmitted disease (STD) or pregnancy prevention had greater odds of including guest speakers (all p <.05). Teachers who included guest speakers covered more sexuality topics and were more likely to cover controversial topics (p <.05). Findings have implications for teachers, school policies, and organizations that offer sexual health education and outreach.


I present a model of when and how coworkers judge the distributive fairness of workplace accommodations of employees with disabilities. Fairness judgments are made when accommodations are salient and relevant to coworkers, I thus present factors influencing the salience and relevance of accommodation. I also argue that fairness judgments are based on equity and need rules and therefore explore factors influencing equity comparisons and perceived warrantedness. Finally, I suggest directions and ideas for future research.


The species composition, size frequency distribution and length/weight relationships for each sex, size at first sexual maturity, and spawning seasons of the commercially important shrimp species inhabiting Yumurtalik Bight of the Nort-eastern Mediterranean were studied. Two penaeid shrimp species, Penaeus semisulcatus and Metapenaeus stebbingi, dominated the catches. Only a few individuals of Metapenaeus monoceros were captured during the study. The minimum size at first maturity was estimated to be 130 mm total length (TL) for P. semisulcatus and 55-60 mm TL for M. stebbingi. The size at which 50% of the population is mature is 36 mm carapace length (CL) for P. semisulcatus and 15.4 mm CL for M. stebbingi. The highest proportion of mature females was encountered between the early spring and summer months when mater temperatures were relatively high. Most mature spawners were captured at a water depth of 5-10 m for M. stebbingi and 20-30 m for P. semisulcatus. The results showed that while P. semisulcatus does not spawn in the bight in winter months, M. stebbingi was not present in the bight from September through the winter months.


We generalize the concept of K-convexity to an n-dimen- sional Euclidean space. The resulting concept of K-convexity is use- ful in addressing production and inventory problems where there are individual product setup costs and/or joint setup costs. We derive some basic properties of K-convex functions. We conclude the paper with some suggestions for future research.


In the UK, the summer of 2015 saw the national popular press and public imagination captivated by the 'refugee crisis'. On both mass and social media sites, public opinion predominantly orientated around two major narratives. On one hand, amidst the dramatic scenes in Calais (as well as elsewhere), the European media worked into a fervour of fear, amid concerns about the 'swarms' of migrants purported to be 'invading' Europe (Squires 2015, The Telegraph). Taking a theoretical focus through Agamben's work and giving reverence to where his concerns converge with aspects of postcolonial theory, the following investigation unpacks how the hegemonic (new) media narratives have intensely cycled into an emotionally charged dichotomous discourse obfuscating a multitude of other key considerations. Employing content analysis, this article reads three cultural texts scraped from social media to discuss the ways in which the construction of the refugee identity has been shaped in the public imagination; it calls into question how forefronting the figure of the refugee has foreclosed wider debates about alternative agendas contributing to the processes of Fortressing Europe.


Emergency Medicine requires a highly skilled workforce who are passionate about delivering excellent patient care. Shift patterns linked with the ever increasing numbers of patients who attend Emergency Departments puts strain on educating the workforce and fostering team togetherness. Our objective in devising and instigating the 'Mini Sim' programme was to embed regular in-situ simulation training to enhance the learning of all staff within our Emergency Department team, building a highly trained workforce to deliver excellent care within the remit of our busy department. The whole team is involved including junior nurses, senior nurses and all tiers of junior doctors including foundation, general practice and senior ED trainees (including Grid). 'Mini Sim' takes place on a weekly basis, every Tuesday morning from 0930–1000. This timing is to ensure maximum participation from all staff. The setup is a fifteen minute simulation (one nurse, one junior doctor, one senior doctor) followed by fifteen minutes of debrief. The format includes an assessment of the participants confidence prior to 'Mini Sim' in the subject being practiced. This is rated on a numerical scale from 1 (being not confident at all) to 5 (being completely confident). The topics chosen are based on feedback from trainees and nurses on clinical skills they feel under confident in, (e.g., pelvic binder application, rapid sequence induction, sickle cell crisis), clinical incidents which have occurred around the Trust (e.g., seizures and access to benzodiazepines), National Patient Safety Alerts (e.g., phenytoin toxicity), protocols (e.g., abducted child, rapid tranquilisation for the acutely disturbed adolescent) , governance issues (e.g., blocked tracheostomy, resuscitation room rebuild) and competencies linked to RCEM objectives. The 'Mini Sim' then takes place in situ within the ED resus, ED main department or our short stay observation ward which is under the auspices of the Children's Emergency Department using real equipment and drugs. After the simulation a debrief is held and any additional teaching is carried out to embed learning. Each medical participant is then offered the opportunity to complete a work place based assessment on the 'Mini Sim' for their e-portfolio. Figure 1 Evaluation of impact of 'mini sim' The work flow of the department has been unaffected and we have received excellent written feedback from participants about the educational quality of the programme which has also shown improvements in staff confidence in dealing with a variety of emergency situations. We would suggest this model could be used in other departments for similar gain. Figure 2


Alginate lyase (AL) from Sphingobacterium multivorum is unsuitable for oral delivery because of its rapid inactivation under acidic conditions. The synthesis of a novel crosslinking enzyme aggregate (CLEA) of AL (AL-CLEA) is proposed. AL precipitation with 95% ammonium sulfate and combined with low methoxylated pectin (LMP), showed 100% precipitation yield. Crosslinking with glutaraldehyde reduced the AL-CLEA activity to less than 1%, but addition of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and LMP during AL-CLEA synthesis increased the activity yield to 14.7%. AL-CLEA exposed to simulated gastric conditions (pH 1.2 to 3.0) showed more than 70% retention of enzymatic activity. Moreover, AL-CLEA showed thermal stability at temperatures over 37 °C. Stability against chemical denaturants (ethanol, acetone and propylene glycol) showed that AL-CLEA was 14 times more stable than free AL in all cases. Finally, a 25% viscosity reduction of alginate solution was achieved with AL-CLEA. This is the first report of AL-CLEA synthesis and evaluation.


This article describes an analysis of an interprofessional consultation between four university teachers, two of whom fulfill the role of educational advisor. They talk about the revision of their Biology courses. Many university teachers hardly ever talk about their teaching, and they do not very often get the opportunity to work on the development of their teaching abilities. In current approaches in faculty development, workplace-based, reflective dialogue is considered an effective method for the professional development of teachers. Interaction research and theorizing in this area are still rather poorly developed. The analysis of the Biology teachers' interactive thinking shows how the participants' concepts about course design develop in the course of the interaction. The interaction can be characterized as a complex, non linear, collaboration- and solution-oriented talk.


Abstract : Military C&HPS use amplitude compression to provide protection and prevent distortion which has the potential to affect relative auditory distance perception by reducing the level differences between sounds. The focus of the present study was to investigate the effect of amplitude compression on relative auditory distance perception. Impulse responses were recorded through KEMAR and convolved with pink noise and a dog bark to create stimuli. Two levels of amplitude compression were applied to the recordings through Adobe Audition sound editing software to simulate military C&HPS. Data were collected in 12 conditions based on combinations of three independent variables: reference distance (6.5 ft, 16.5 ft), stimulus (pink noise, dog bark) and compression (none (linear), low, high). Participants listened to the stimuli through insert earphones in a 2IFC adaptive task and selected the stimulus they perceived to be farther away. As the participant selected the correct stimulus, the computer program reduced the separation in the next trial. The dependent variable was the smallest average separation in distance across 3-5 runs. A 3-factor Analysis of Variance showed significant main effects of distance and compression as well as significant interactions between the three variables. Follow-up analyses within each stimulus indicated that the effects of compression varied between v the two stimuli. For both stimuli, listeners needed increased separation as the compression level increased. For the pink noise, the effect of compression was greater for the 6.5 ft distance than the 16.5 ft distance. For the dog bark stimulus, the low level of compression affected perception greater at the 6.5 ft distance than at the 16.5 ft distance.


The aim of Combat Poverty is to promote a just and inclusive society by working for the prevention and elimination of poverty and social exclusion. Combat Poverty will realise this aim through the four general functions set out in the Combat Poverty Agency Act, 1986: policy advice, project support and innovation; research; public education.


A patient who does not regain full consciousness after coma is typically classified as being in a vegetative state or a minimally conscious state. While the key determinants in this differential diagnosis are inferred uniquely from the observed behaviour of the patient, nothing can, in principle, be known about the patient's awareness of the external world. Given the subjective nature of current diagnostic practice, the quest for neurophysiological markers that could complement the nosology of the coma spectrum is becoming more and more acute. We here present a method for the classification of patients based on electrophysiological responses using Bayesian model selection. We validate the method in a sample of fourteen patients with a clinical disorder of consciousness (DoC) and a control group of fifteen healthy adults. By formally comparing a set of alternative hypotheses about the nosology of DoC patients, the results of our validation study show that we can disambiguate between alternative models of how patients are classified. Although limited to this small sample of patients, this allowed us to assert that there is no evidence of subgroups when looking at the MMN response in this sample of patients. We believe that the methods presented in this article are an important contribution to testing alternative hypotheses about how patients are grouped at both the group and single-patient level and propose that electrophysiological responses, recorded invasively or non-invasively, may be informative for the nosology of the coma spectrum on a par with behavioural diagnosis.


Abstract Beryl and euclase crystals from the Mina do Santino and the Jacú pegmatites in the Borborema Pegmatite Province in northeastern Brazil contain several generations of melt and fluid inclusions, which allow interpretation of P-T-X conditions responsible for beryl crystallization and for alteration of a primary pegmatitic mineral assemblage to a mixture of hydrothermal minerals (euclase, bertrandite, kaolinite, and quartz). Primary melt and fluid inclusions hosted by beryl were trapped simultaneously. However, their homogenization temperatures are significantly higher (870-900 °C) than the values previously reported for pegmatitic systems (<712 °C) and should be treated with caution. An isobaric drop of temperature resulted in the exsolution of a fluid. A low-salinity CO2-enriched phase and a saline water-rich phase were trapped in pseudosecondary inclusions in beryl at a pressure of 2.1-2.7 kbar and temperature of 390-480 °C. Cooling of the country rocks below 400 °C caused a ductile-to-brittle transition and allowed infiltration of cold groundwater, which further decreased the temperature in the system to 190-240 °C. At the same time, the pressure dropped from a lithostatic (2.1-2.7 kbar) to a hydrostatic value (0.57-0.73 kbar). Consequently, minerals deposited under magmatic conditions (feldspars and beryl) became unstable and a newly formed hydrothermal mineral paragenesis (euclase, bertrandite, kaolinite, and quartz) overprinted the earlier one. The hydrothermal fluids responsible for the alteration differ from the earlier-exsolved fluids in having a lower salinity, lower homogenization temperature, the absence of CO2, and the presence of CH4.


Recent years have seen increasing efforts to employ integrative genomic approaches to identify novel oncogenes. In this manner, IKBKE coding for IKKe was recently proposed as a novel oncogene, aberrantly activating the NF‐κB signaling pathway in breast cancers (Boehm et al. Cell. 2007). We pursued a series of experiments that delve more deeply into the hypothesis of IKKe as a novel oncology target; the resulting evidence challenges the proposed oncogenic mechanism. We conducted RNA interference studies on mutiple breast cancer cell lines with multiple IKBKE siRNA motifs to define a general on‐target phenotype. Consistent with published findings, we confirmed that although 4 IKBKE siRNA motifs tested significantly reduced IKKe protein expression (78–90% silencing) only 2 of these motifs significantly inhibited cell growth. We then engineered 'non‐silenceable' IKBKE constructs packaged in BacMam virus and were able to simultaneously silence the endogenous IKBKE and exogenously express the non‐silenceable IKKe at protein levels below, equivalent to, and significantly above the endogenous levels. We demonstrated that the antiproliferative effects of these 2 siRNAs could not be rescued by functional, exogenously expressed IKBKE, indicating likely off‐target toxicity. We further explored the correlations between IKBKE gene amplification, IKKe protein overexpression, and NF‐κB pathway activation using RNAi in conjunction with an NF‐κB ‐luciferase reporter assay. We observed that IKBKE amplification correlated poorly with both IKKe protein expression and NF‐κB pathway activation. Furthermore, silencing downstream components of the NF‐κB signaling pathway had little impact on the IKBKE‐amplified cells; and conversely, silencing IKBKE had no impact on NF‐κB ‐reporter activity in the IKBKE‐amplified cells. In addition, we over‐expressed the kinase‐dead IKKe (K38A), and observed no effect on tumor cell growth. Finally, using BacMam virus to serially titrate IKK , we confirmed that the level of exogenous IKKe needed to achieve a modest pathway activation (2‐fold increase in NF‐κB ‐luciferase reporter assay) was >10 times the endogenous protein level found in an IKBKE‐amplified breast cancer line. We also undertook a limited medicinal chemistry effort to arrive at several potent small molecule tool inhibitors of both IKK and TBK1 including GSK2292978A (8nM & 1nM respectively). GSK2292978A confirmably inhibited IKKe activity in a cellular mechanistic assay (IC50∼170nM). Using a 3‐day proliferation assay, we observed no evident selectivity of GSK2292978A for IKBKE‐amplified or IKKe overexpressing cell lines compared to non‐amplified cell lines. These findings resulted in our conclusion that IKKe likely does not represent a true oncogene in breast cancer and suggest the vital need for well‐designed controls in cases where RNA interference significantly defines target validation. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(12 Suppl):C74.


In [7] authors studied the sequence spaces and function spaces on interval [0,1]. Further they introduced new sequence spaces by using generalized p-summation method and proved these spaces of sequences and functions are Banach spaces. In this paper we extend the results of authors in [7] by introducing a new basis function and strongly p-summation method.


The effect of plant heat-shock (HS) pre-treatment (40.5°C, 2 h) on Pseudoidium neolycopersici development in the susceptible and moderately resistant Solanum spp. genotypes was studied together with biochemical responses (endogenous concentrations of salicylic (SA), jasmonic (JA), abscisic acid (ABA), and peroxidase (POX) activity). In HS pre-treated S. lycopersicum, an acceleration of pathogen, chlorosis and necrosis development, strong SA, JA accumulation, and increased POX activity were detected. In S. chmielewskii, HS pre-treatment caused a slight suppression of pathogen development, increase in JA, ABA concentrations, and POX activity. HS accelerated and strengthened the development of symptoms and biochemical responses to the infection in the susceptible genotype in contrast to moderately resistant genotype with a robust defence response to an infection per se.


There are three different types of nondeterminism in quantum communication: i) $\nqp$-communication, ii) $\qma$-communication, and iii) $\qcma$-communication. In this \redout{paper} we show that multiparty $\nqp$-communication can be exponentially stronger than $\qcma$-communication. This also implies an exponential separation with respect to classical multiparty nondeterministic communication complexity. We argue that there exists a total function that is hard for $\qcma$-communication and easy for $\nqp$-communication. The proof of it involves an application of the pattern tensor method and a new lower bound for polynomial threshold degree. Another important consequence of this result is that nondeterministic rank can be exponentially lower than the discrepancy bound.


The division of Electricity at Uppsala University is developing a wave energy converter(WEC) consisting of a linear generator connected to a bouy at the water surfacethrough a wire cable called the connection line.During extreme conditions, the wave power plant will experience forces up to 500kN, which lead to unnecessary wear and will ultimately cause the failure of theconverter. To prevent this there is a need for a damper.The wave energy converter works at a maximum efficiency when the translator'sare centered with respect to the stator. Due to tidal movements the position of thetranslator can deviate. There for a mechanical divice that will compensate for this isneeded.This report describes the further development of an earlier project where a tidalwave compensator for a wave energy converter of Seabased AB was developed. Thecompensator Mattias Maier developed in the earlier project needed a locking systemto lock thecompensators position when not active. This report also illustrates the developmentof a damperthat is to be implemented in the WEC. The damper´s function is toprevent peak forces to occurring. This has to be achiveble without lowering thepower plant's efficiency, meaning that it should only start to moderate the force whenit goes above 200 kN.The design process consisted in developing and dimensioning twosolutions, with special consideration to the standard components and manufacturingmethods available at the workshop in Lysekil.The project resulted in 3D modeled design solutions and complete manufacturingdrawings. We also present some recommendations for further studies in chapter 8.


Background: Despite rapid growth, gluteal fat transplantation is an operation in search of science and a teachable technique. Long operating times, tedious syringe transfers, inability to shape the recipient site, and the risk of fat embolism all headline as impediments to clinical adoption of the procedure. Expansion vibration lipofilling is a syringe-free surgical strategy that is a logical extension of Separation, Aspiration, and Fat Equalization (SAFELipo). In expansion vibration lipofilling, there is simultaneous disruption of recipient-site connective tissue, internal expansion using exploded-tip cannulas, and backfilling of these spaces with roller pump–propelled fat. Methods: Two thousand four hundred nineteen consecutive cases of expansion vibration lipofilling fat transplantation to the buttocks were reviewed. Average follow-up was 12 months. The technique of expansion vibration lipofilling is dependent on the use of larger caliber cannulas attached to a roller pump and to an oscillatory power-assisted liposuction device, which is less labor-intensive, potentially allowing for better knowledge of cannula-tip location at all times during the procedure. Results: Operating times averaged 1 hour 40 minutes. The average volume of fat inserted was 1003 cc. Complications included donor-site seroma, infection, and one pulmonary embolism treated with anticoagulation. There were no cases of fat embolism or death. Conclusions: Expansion vibration lipofilling is a new method for large-volume fat transplantation. Avoidance of fatal fat emboli demands a surgeon's complete knowledge of cannula tip location at all times during the procedure. Syringe-free, larger caliber, and less flexible cannulas, combined with techniques requiring less operator upper extremity effort resulting in less fatigue, may contribute to avoidance of this dreadful complication. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.


Background: The increase in nutrition-related diseases in industrialized countries is alarming. Unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco are the main causes of this development. There is therefore great interest in prevention strategies. Such strategies have traditionally been based on public information or regulation, but in recent years the value of partnership has begun to be discussed. Design: Evaluation of 13 concrete Danish partnership initiatives for promoting healthy eating habits was carried out using a 10-step checklist. Results: The evaluation showed that the partnerships in general were quite successful. Most partnerships were assessed to have resulted in concrete output, to have been disseminated well in target groups, to have had high novelty value and to have brought new resources into play. Major weaknesses in the partnerships were reported to relate to the time-consuming task of setting up partn
 erships. Results also showed that a number of requirements should be met if partnerships were to be successful. Conclusions: The study indicates that partnerships are a promising tool in the promotion of healthy eating habits as seen from a public point of view. Partnerships should be seen as a supplement to tools such as information, regulation and state interventions, and therefore businesses and non-governmental organizations are important actors in partnerships. It is suggested that businesses, in particular, should develop their role in future partnerships and that they should aim develop their responsibility for the nutritional effects of the products they sell. The term corporate nutritional responsibility is suggested to describe such effort aimed at making nutritional issues a corporate management issue. Keywords: corporate nutritional responsibility; healthy eating; networks; partnerships


: Occupational Medicine Department in Moscow Sechenov Medical Academy is based on RAMSc Research Institute for Occupational Medicine. The Department's general line is postgraduate education with qualification exam and certification in following specialties: industrial hygiene, occupational pathology, clinical laboratory evaluation and prophylactic toxicology. The Department elaborated many methodic documents and study guides, sample educational programs for doctors in industrial hygiene and for residents in occupational pathology. Correspondence study is also in practice. Now textbook in occupational medicine is oncoming.


PURPOSE
Key oncology end points are not routinely encoded into electronic medical records (EMRs). We assessed whether natural language processing (NLP) can abstract treatment discontinuation rationale from unstructured EMR notes to estimate toxicity incidence and progression-free survival (PFS).

METHODS
We constructed a retrospective cohort of 6,115 patients with early-stage and 701 patients with metastatic breast cancer initiating care at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center from 2008 to 2019. Each cohort was divided into training (70%), validation (15%), and test (15%) subsets. Human abstractors identified the clinical rationale associated with treatment discontinuation events. Concatenated EMR notes were used to train high-dimensional logistic regression and convolutional neural network models. Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to compare toxicity incidence and PFS estimated by our NLP models to estimates generated by manual labeling and time-to-treatment discontinuation (TTD).

RESULTS
Our best high-dimensional logistic regression models identified toxicity events in early-stage patients with an area under the curve of the receiver-operator characteristic of 0.857 ± 0.014 (standard deviation) and progression events in metastatic patients with an area under the curve of 0.752 ± 0.027 (standard deviation). NLP-extracted toxicity incidence and PFS curves were not significantly different from manually extracted curves (P = .95 and P = .67, respectively). By contrast, TTD overestimated toxicity in early-stage patients (P < .001) and underestimated PFS in metastatic patients (P < .001). Additionally, we tested an extrapolation approach in which 20% of the metastatic cohort were labeled manually, and NLP algorithms were used to abstract the remaining 80%. This extrapolated outcomes approach resolved PFS differences between receptor subtypes (P < .001 for hormone receptor+/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2- v human epidermal growth factor receptor 2+ v triple-negative) that could not be resolved with TTD.

CONCLUSION
NLP models are capable of abstracting treatment discontinuation rationale with minimal manual labeling.


Agency conflict arises due to the differences of interest between owner, manager and creditors. Therefore, the researchers are trying to find the appropriate model in order to reduce the agency conflict issues that occur. The uncommon thing which became the originality and the recency of this study is to consider the interdependence relationship of institutional ownership variables and leverage to assess the appropriate control of the agency conflict that occurs by considering the real situation and circumstances faced by the company when the investment opportunities is high and low as well as high and low company risk. This study uses data of listed companies in Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) with the data for 12 years. The analysis technique used is simultaneous equations with GMM estimation techniques (Generalize Method of Moment). This research provides practical implications for owners, managers, creditors, investors, and capital market regulation in considering decisions related to the mechanism controlling agency conflicts through institutional ownership, leverage on free cash flow faced by companies in Indonesia, so that they can make decisions and provide useful strategic considerations useful for the companies, government regulation, banks (lenders), and society. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n3p484


Curcumin, a natural polyphenol that contributes to the flavor and yellow pigment of the spice turmeric, is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic properties. Capable of affecting the initiation, promotion, and progression of carcinogenesis through multiple mechanisms, curcumin has potential utility for both chemoprevention and chemotherapy. Previous studies demonstrated that curcumin can inhibit ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity in human leukemia and breast cancer cells, and pretreatment with dietary curcumin blocks carcinogen-induced ODC activity in rodent models of skin, colon, and renal cancer. The current study investigated the regulation of polyamine metabolism in human gastric and colon carcinoma cell lines in response to curcumin. Curcumin treatment significantly induced spermine oxidase (SMOX) mRNA and activity, which results in the generation of hydrogen peroxide, a source of ROS. Simultaneously, curcumin down regulated spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase (SSAT) activity and the biosynthetic enzymes ODC and S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (SAMDC), thereby diminishing intracellular polyamine pools. Combination treatments using curcumin with the ODC inhibitor 2-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), an agent currently in clinical chemoprevention trials, significantly enhanced inhibition of ODC activity and decreased growth of GI cancer cell lines beyond that observed with either agent alone. Similarly, combining curcumin with the polyamine analogue bis(ethyl)norspermine enhanced growth inhibition that was accompanied by enhanced accumulation of the analogue and decreased intracellular polyamine levels beyond those observed with either agent alone. Importantly, cotreatment with curcumin permitted the lowering of the effective dose of ODC inhibitor or polyamine analogue. These studies provide insight into the polyamine-related mechanisms involved in the cancer cell response to curcumin and its potential as a chemopreventive or chemotherapeutic agent in the GI tract.


In previous decades, researchers have explored the formal foundations of program testing. By exploring the foundations of testing largely separate from any specific method of testing, these researchers provided a general discussion of the testing process, including the goals, the underlying problems, and the limitations of testing. Unfortunately, a common, rigorous foundation has not been widely adopted in empirical software testing research, making it difficult to generalize and compare empirical research. We continue this foundational work, providing a framework intended to serve as a guide for future discussions and empirical studies concerning software testing. Specifically, we extend Gourlay's functional description of testing with the notion of a test oracle, an aspect of testing largely overlooked in previous foundational work and only lightly explored in general. We argue additional work exploring the interrelationship between programs, tests, and oracles should be performed, and use our extension to clarify concepts presented in previous work, present new concepts related to test oracles, and demonstrate that oracle selection must be considered when discussing the efficacy of a testing process.


Fr\'echet Inception Distance (FID) is the primary metric for ranking models in data-driven generative modeling. While remarkably successful, the metric is known to sometimes disagree with human judgement. We investigate a root cause of these discrepancies, and visualize what FID"looks at"in generated images. We show that the feature space that FID is (typically) computed in is so close to the ImageNet classifications that aligning the histograms of Top-$N$ classifications between sets of generated and real images can reduce FID substantially -- without actually improving the quality of results. Thus, we conclude that FID is prone to intentional or accidental distortions. As a practical example of an accidental distortion, we discuss a case where an ImageNet pre-trained FastGAN achieves a FID comparable to StyleGAN2, while being worse in terms of human evaluation.


Background Comprehensive and comparable estimates of health spending in each country are a key input for health policy and planning, and are necessary to support the achievement of national and international health goals. Previous studies have tracked past and projected future health spending until 2040 and shown that, with economic development, countries tend to spend more on health per capita, with a decreasing share of spending from development assistance and out-of-pocket sources. We aimed to characterise the past, present, and predicted future of global health spending, with an emphasis on equity in spending across countries.


The paper explores the bases for alternative approaches to river flow and hydrologic time series forecasting. The precipitation that forces river flow contains significant modes of variability beyond simple noise randomness and these structured statistical properties may be used advantageously in forecasting river flow. Despite the high degree of spatial and temporal intermittency observed in precipitation records, there are often deterministic signals embedded in the time series. These deterministic components of the random variable are related to the physical processes that constitute precipitation formation.


This study uses data envelopment analysis (DEA) to evaluate the relative efficiency of 500 higher education institutions (HEIs) in ten European countries and the U.S. for the period between 2000 and 2010. Efficiency scores are determined using different input - output sets (inputs: total revenue, academic staff, administration staff, total number of students; outputs: total number of publications, number of scientific articles, graduates) and considering different frontiers: global frontiers (all HEIs pooled together) and a regional frontier (Europe and the U.S. having their own frontiers). Changes in total factor productivity are assessed by means of the Malmquist index and are decomposed into pure efficiency change s and frontier shifts. Also investigate d are the external factors affecting the degree of HEI inefficiency, e.g. institutional setting s (size and department composition), location, funding structure (using two - stage DEA analysis following the bootstrap procedure proposed by Simar and Wilson, 2007). Specifically, it is found that the role of the university funding structure in HEI technical efficiency is different in Europe and in the U.S. Increased government funding is associated with an increase in inefficiency only in the case of European units, while the share of funds from tuition fees decreases the efficiency of American public institutions but relates to efficiency improvements in European universities.


There are four main interconnecting themes around which the contributions in this book are based. This introductory chapter aims to establish the broad context for the chapters that follow by discussing each of the themes. It does so by setting these themes within the overarching demographic challenge of the twenty-first century – demographic ageing. Each chapter is introduced in the context of the specific theme to which it primarily relates and there is a summary of the data sets used by the contributors to illustrate the wide range of cross-sectional and longitudinal data analysed.


Introduction: Thoughtful evaluation of patients' knowledge, satisfaction, and concerns in Anticoagulation clinics will help to understand areas of improvement. Our study aimed to examine patients' drug knowledge, satisfaction and concerns with provided anticoagulation services.
Patients and Methods: We designed our study as a cross-sectional survey that was developed and conducted in a regional anticoagulation clinic with good number of patients. Two hundred sixty eight were recruited in the survey. Patients' warfarin refill records and time within the therapeutic INR range were retrieved from hospital databases.
Results: Adequate knowledge of warfarin-food and warfarin-drug interactions was lacking in about 50% of patients. Satisfaction with provided service was not optimal, Concerns associated with warfarin was bothersome to many patients due to possible drug-drug interactions (41.42%), missed doses impact (29.10%), adverse drug reactions (29.85%). All of which might lead to unfavorable consequences. Higher satisfaction was associated with better knowledge (r=0.27, p=0.001) and fewer concerns (rs=-0.26, p=0.002). Improved drug related knowledge and higher satisfaction were positively reflected in these patients' attitude toward drug use compliance in knowledge (rs=0.23, p=0.01) and satisfaction (rs=0.19, p=0.041). Eventually, good INR control was shown more with better knowledge, higher satisfaction, and better warfarin adherence (p=0.004, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.004, respectively).
Conclusion: There is a deficit in patients' knowledge and satisfaction with warfarin therapy. Such deficits lifted the threshold of concerns with warfarin use and negatively affected INR control.


The goal of three-dimensional (3D) displays is to recreate reality by satisfying all perceptual cues used by the human visual system. While many perceptual cues can be replicated by showing 2D images to our eyes, the accommodation cue, or the change of the focal length of the ocular lens, is very difficult to satisfy with today's 3D displays. This inability to support the focusing of the eyes causes a problem called the vergence-accommodation conflict, which results in visual discomfort after long periods of use. Multifocal displays satisfy the accommodation cue by displaying content on multiple virtual planes, each at a different depth. However, current designs of multifocal displays suffer from a limited number of focal planes and their inability to block light. The small number of focal planes significantly reduces the supported depth range of multifocal displays. The light leaking from the far focal planes also dramatically reduces the contrast of the image formed on the retina and weakens the occlusion cue — anotherimportant perceptual cue used by the human visual system to estimate depth. This dissertation focuses on solving the two limitations of multifocal displays — the paucity of focalplanes and the weak occlusion cue. Specifically, we design and build a multifocal display that can generate a dense focal stack — with an order of magnitude increase in the number of focal planes over existing works. To create proper occlusion cues, we endow multifocal displays with a novel capability to tilt the light emitted by each pixel. We showthat the capability enables multifocal displays to generate occlusion cues without losing spatial resolution. The dissertation also contributes to the theoretical understandingof multifocal displays. We analyze the domain of light fields that can be generated by multifocal displays and characterize multifocal displays in terms of their depth-of-field, spatial resolution, and the required number of focal planes. The proposed methods enable natural accommodation and occlusion cues that are critical for animmersive virtual world. Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) devices stand to benefit significantlyfrom the advancements made in the dissertation. Moreover, all of the proposed methods require only simple modifications to existing AR/VR displays and are computationally and bandwidth-efficient. In this sense, the technologies are timely and could pave the way to a more immersive AR/VR experience.


Loss-of-function mutations of the KCNJ2 gene encoding for the inward rectifier potassium channel subunit Kir2.1 cause Andersen-Tawil Syndrome (ATS), a rare genetic disorder characterised by periodic paralysis, ventricular arrhythmias, and dysmorphic features. Clinical manifestations of the disease appear to vary greatly with the nature of mutation, therefore, functional characterisation of ATS-causing mutations is of clinical importance. In this study, we describe the identification and functional analysis of a novel KCNJ2 mutation, Val302del, identified in a patient with ATS. Heterologously expressed wild type (WT) and Val302del mutant alleles showed similar subcellular distribution of the Kir2.1 protein with high intensity labelling from the membrane region, demonstrating normal membrane trafficking of the Val302del Kir2.1 variant. Cells transfected with the WT allele displayed a robust current with strong inward rectification, while no current above background was detected in cells expressing the Val302del Kir2.1 subunit. Co-transfection of CHO cells with the WT and the Val302del Kir2.1 revealed a dose-dependent inhibitory effect of the Val302del Kir2.1 mutant subunit on WT Kir2.1 currents. These observations indicate that the WT and the Val302del mutant subunits co-assemble in the cell membrane and that the mutation affects potassium conductivity and (or) gating of the WT/Val302del heteromeric Kir2.1 channels.


Nanomaterials with various shapes and sizes have been developed to mimic functions of photosynthesis in which solar energy conversion is achieved by using nanosized proteins with controlled shapes and sizes. Artificial photosynthesis consists of light-harvesting and charge-separation processes together with catalytic units of water oxidation and reduction. Nanosized mesoporous silica-alumina was utilized to encapsulate organic charge-separation molecules inside the nanospace to elongate the lifetimes of the charge-separated states, as observed in the photosynthetic reaction centers. Metal nanoparticles with controlled shapes and sizes have also been utilized as efficient catalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from water with reductants by using electron donor-acceptor organic molecules as photocatalysts. The control of the shape and size of metal nanoparticles plays a very important role in achieving high catalytic performance in catalytic hydrogen evolution in water reduction and also in catalytic oxygen evolution in water oxidation.


Despite on-going vaccination programmes, Neisseria meningitidis causes over 700 cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in the UK each year. In 2017-18, the MenW and MenY capsular groups caused 38% of all IMD cases. Current policy is to generate genome sequences of all meningococcal disease isolates. Using this resource, we aim to understand how genetic variation contributes to phenotypic differences between carriage and disease isolates.
 We are adapting a variety of assays, designed to mimic carriage and disease behaviours, for high throughput phenotypic testing of multiple meningococcal isolates from carriage and cases of IMD. We have selected 335 MenW cc11 and MenY cc23 isolates and are currently testing subsets of isolates in cell culture (CaLu3), growth and biofilm assays. Phenotypic differences will be utilised as input data for Genome Wide Association Studies that aim to identify the specific genomic variants, or combinations of variants, determining observed differences. Genomic data will include whole genome sequences and repeat-mediated phase variation states.
 Our preliminary data has detected variation in the ability of cc11 and cc23 isolates to disrupt monolayers of CaLu3 cells, indicating that minor genetic differences in phylogentically similar organisms may be physiologically important for both carriage and disease. We will also discuss progress in establishing successful, high-throughput assays for testing multiple isolates.


Religious toleration first became legally enshrined in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries. Religious toleration led to the practice of more general inter-subjective recognition of members of democratic states which took precedence over differences of conviction and practice. After considering the extent to which a democracy may defend itself against the enemies of democracy and to which it should be prepared to tolerate civil disobedience, the article analyses the contemporary dialectic between the notion of civil inclusion and multiculturalism. Religious toleration is seen as the pacemaker for modern multiculturalism, in which the claims of minorities to civic inclusion are recognized so long as members of all groups understand themselves to be citizens of one and the same political community.


Every day, plants, animals, and ecosystems are subject to the dire consequences of anthropogenic environmental degradation. The damage caused by manufactured ecological destruction varies, and can be the result of ecological withdrawals (dangerous extraction of natural resources, such as fracking or deforestation), or ecological additions (dangerous introduction of environmental hazards into the environment, such as pollution). These practices result in millions of victims, and a small (but growing) group of criminologists has taken up the study of the victimization experiences associated with environmental crimes. Many of these criminologists identify as green criminologists, and in their works, argue that environmental crime victims, and research associated with environmental crime victim experience, remains on the periphery of mainstream criminology. This is a serious concern, as in order to (1) recognize the full scope and impact of environmental crime, (2) avoid victim blaming, and (3) generate a comprehensive victimology literature, criminologists must recognize environmental crime victims. This research explores the claims of green criminologists by exploring the representation of environmental crime victims in criminology's victimology research. Sources are examined for key themes, as well as information on the victim experience of those who have endured environmental crimes. Results, implications, and suggestions for future study will be presented and discussed, in order to draw conclusions about the standing of environmental crime victims in criminology's victimology research. 1 Johnson: The Status of Green Criminology in Victimology Research Published by DigitalCommons@EMU, 2017


Neonatal Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) has been associated with a high risk for long term morbidity and mortality.
HIE occurs in one to three per 1000 live births in high income countries, and up to 20 per 1000 live births in low-and middleincome
countries. The pathophysiology of HIE includes a cascade of events resulting in oxidative injury and cell death. Therapeutic
hypothermia is a protective therapy, inhibiting various events in the cascade of injury. Therapeutic Hypothermia (Selective Head
Cooling or Total Body Cooling) should be initiated within six hours. Studies showed that infants who were started on therapeutic
hypothermia within the first six hours after birth, have significantly less morbidity and mortality, and improved long-term neurological
outcomes. Therapeutic Hypothermia is now widely offered as standard of treatment for neonatal encephalopathy in high income
countries, but it?s still a challenge in middle-and low-income countries.


Individuals of protected species, such as amphibians and reptiles, often need to be removed from sites before development commences. Usually, the population is considered to be closed. All individuals are assumed to i) be present and available for detection at the start of the study period and ii) remain at the site until the end of the study, unless they are detected. However, the assumption of population closure is not always valid. We present new removal models which allow for population renewal through birth and/or immigration, and population depletion through sampling as well as through death/emigration. When appropriate, productivity may be estimated and a Bayesian approach allows the estimation of the probability of total population depletion. We demonstrate the performance of the models using data on common lizards, Zootoca vivipara, and great crested newts, Triturus cristatus.


We study the dynamics of a spherical steel ball falling freely through a solution of entangled wormlike-micelles. If the sphere diameter is larger than a threshold value, the settling velocity shows repeated short oscillatory bursts separated by long periods of relative quiescence. We propose a model incorporating the interplay of settling-induced flow, viscoelastic stress and, as in M. E. Cates, D. A. Head and A. Ajdari, Phys. Rev. E, 2002, 66, 025202(R) and A. Aradian and M. E. Cates, Phys. Rev. E, 2006, 73, 041508, a slow structural variable for which our experiments offer independent evidence.


Innovation in technologies that promote mitigation and adaptation will be critical for tackling climate change. It can decrease the costs of policy measures and provide new opportunities for the private sector. However, most discussions of innovation have focused on mitigation, while little attention has been paid to innovation for adaptation. This paper uses agricultural crop biotechnology as a case study of innovative activity. The agricultural sector is considered to be particularly vulnerable to climate change, in addition to facing the pressures of meeting the demands of a rising world population. Innovation in plant breeding to develop crop varieties that are more resilient to climate change impacts is one of several possible adaptation options for agriculture. This paper neither advocates nor discourages the use of biotechnology, but focuses on providing estimates of the level and trends of innovation in this field.


This meeting commenced with a talk from Prof Loibl on neoadjuvant and adjuvant strategies for HER2positive (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive) early breast cancer (EBC), which featured a précis on the most pertinent, recent trial data and how these data may shape future treatment decisions in clinical practice. Prof Conte moved the discussion forward by addressing how recent studies may lead towards a new standard of care (SoC) and treatment paradigms in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Prof Schmid gave an overview of potential strategies that could be used to prevent or overcome endocrine therapy resistance in patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. The session was concluded with a presentation on 'Precision Medicine for Metastatic Breast Cancer' by Prof Sotiriou, in which he highlighted the potential applications of precision medicine and some of the different approaches that have been used in metastatic breast cancer. Prof Verma, the meeting chair, opened the symposium and facilitated the discussion sessions. The contents of the presentations and discussions are summarised herein.


BACKGROUND
The Hangover Symptoms Scale (HSS) assesses the frequency of 13 symptoms experienced after drinking in the past year. Cross-sectional analyses in college drinkers showed preliminary evidence for the validity of the HSS (Slutske et al., 2003). The current investigation extended this work by examining the construct validity of the HSS in an ecological momentary assessment investigation.

METHODS
Frequent drinkers (N = 404) carried electronic diaries to track their daily experiences over 3 weeks. Each morning, the diary assessed prior-night drinking behaviors, the presence of current hangover, and intensity of current headache and nausea.

RESULTS
Adjusting for sex and body mass, the HSS significantly predicted diary endorsement of hangover (OR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.78 to 2.49, p < 0.001). Participants who endorsed the HSS headache and nausea items were especially likely to report the elevations of corresponding symptoms in diary records made the morning after drinking. HSS scores incrementally predicted hangover when the number of drinks consumed in the episode was covaried but did not moderate the relationship between the number of drinks and diary hangover reports.

CONCLUSIONS
The HSS appears to be a valid tool for hangover research. Higher HSS scores identify individuals who complain of "real world" hangovers and who may be especially likely to display particular symptoms after a night of drinking. Past hangovers predicted future hangovers, suggesting hangovers do not necessarily discourage or inhibit future drinking, at least across the several-week time interval studied here. There is a need to develop and evaluate complementary measures that can more directly index individual differences in hangover susceptibility in survey designs.


Soils with a history of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) treatment at field application rates and control soils with no prior exposure to 2,4-D were amended with 2,4-D in the laboratory. Before and during these treatments, the populations of 2,4-D-degrading bacteria were monitored by most-probable-number (MPN) enumeration and hybridization analyses, using probes for the tfd genes of plasmid pJP4, which encode enzymes for 2,4-D degradation. Data obtained by these alternate methods were compared. Several months after the most recent field application of 2,4-D (approximately 1 ppm), soils with a 42-year history of 2,4-D treatment did not have significantly higher numbers of 2,4-D-degrading organisms than did control soils with no prior history of treatment. In response to laboratory amendments with 2,4-D, both the previously treated soils and those with no prior history of exposure exhibited a dramatic increase in the number of 2,4-D-metabolizing organisms. The MPN data indicate a 4- to 5-log population increase after one amendment with 250 ppm of 2,4-D and ultimately a 6- to 7-log increase after four additional amendments, each with 400 ppm of 2,4-D. Similarly, when total bacterial DNA from the soil microbial community of these samples was analyzed by using a probe for the tfdA gene (2,4-D monoxygenase) or the tfdB gene (2,4-dichlorophenol hydroxylase) a dramatic increase in the level of hybridization was observed in both soils.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


As part of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Network, our comprehensive genomic analysis of 279 head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) found frequent chromosomal copy number variation (CNV) and mutations of potential biologic and therapeutic importance. This underscored an urgent need to identify cell line models that harbor genomic alterations representative of HNSCC. We performed whole exome-DNA and transcriptome RNA sequencing on 15 human papillomavirus HPV(−) and 11 HPV(+) HNSCC cell lines. HNSCC lines harbored chromosome gains (3q, 5p, 7p, 8q, 11q) and losses (3p, 5q, 8p, 9p, 18q), consistent with those found in HNSCC tumors by TCGA and previous karyotype studies. Integrative genome-wide analysis of CNV with gene expression uncovered over 1500 genes that display significant correlation between CNV and gene expression in both TCGA tumors and cell lines. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis revealed multiple genes that converge on key pathways and functions deregulated in HNSCC, including PI3K/AKT/mTOR, NF-κB, RAS/MAPK, TP53, death receptor signaling, inflammation, and differentiation. Intriguingly, 103 genes displaying significant amplification and increased expression were predominately located on chromosome 3q22-29. These genes encode components involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Hippo, TGF-beta and Wnt/beta-catenin pathways, cell cycle, translational and post-translational regulation, and mitochondrial biosynthesis. Fisher's exact test and survival analysis showed significant co-occurrence and worse overall survival of 3q26.3 amplification and TP53 mutation in HNSCC patients from TCGA datasets; 3q26.3 encompasses 53 genes including PIK3CA, PLD1, ACTL6A and SOX2. HNSCC cell lines also harbor common mutations found in TCGA, such as TP53, FAT1 and NOTCH1, and novel and rare tumor suppressor genes, such as MYH9. Our findings suggest that these cell lines could serve as models for mechanistic studies and pharmacologic screening, and investigation of genomic and expression alterations as potential biomarkers for precision diagnosis and prognosis of HNSCC. (Supported by NIDCD/NIH intramural projects ZIA-DC-000073, ZIA-DC-000074. This study utilized the high-performance computational capabilities of the Biowulf Linux cluster at the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD. (http://biowulf.nih.gov).) Citation Format: Hui Cheng, Xinping Yang, Han Si, Anthony Saleh, Jamie Coupar, Robert L. Ferris, Wendell G. Yarbrough, Mark E. Prince, Thomas E. Carey, Carter Van Waes, Zhong Chen. Chromosome 3q22-29 amplification is linked to increased expression of multiple genes in key pathways deregulated in head and neck cancer tumors and cell lines [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4374. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-4374


Federated Learning (FL) is a well-established technique for privacy preserving distributed training. Much attention has been given to various aspects of FL training. A growing number of applications that consume FL-trained models, however, increasingly operate under dynamically and unpredictably variable conditions, ren-dering a single model insufficient. We argue for training a global "family of models" cost efficiently in a federated fashion. Training them independently for different tradeoff points incurs ≈ O ( k ) cost for any k architectures of interest, however. Straightforward applications of FL techniques to recent weight-shared training approaches is either infeasible or prohibitively expensive. We propose SuperFed— an architectural framework that incurs O (1) cost to co-train a large family of models in a federated fashion by leveraging weight-shared learning. We achieve an order of magnitude cost savings on both communication and computation by proposing two novel training mechanisms: (a) distribution of weight-shared models to federated clients, (b) central aggregation of arbitrarily overlapping weight-shared model parameters. The combination of these mechanisms is shown to reach an order of magnitude ( 9 . 43 x) reduction in computation and communication cost for training a 5 ∗ 10 8 -sized family of models, compared to independently training as few as k = 9 DNNs without any accuracy loss.


Methylphenidate (Ritalin), the current leading form of treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), has seen a dramatic increase in prescription rate over the past ten years. No contemporary biological basis for ADHD diagnosis results in physicians making their diagnoses based on behavioural symptoms such as hyperactivity and inability to focus. Considering that these symptoms are behaviours that anyone may express at one point in their life, the risk of over-diagnosis of the disease increases. This may subsequently lead to over-prescription of Ritalin. This paper aims to evaluate and identify the causes and effects of Ritalin over-prescription. Key literature on ADHD reveals that the diagnostic criteria for ADHD has undergone various modifications since the disease was first identified; therefore, different experts may have different opinions on what are regarded as symptoms of the disorder. Furthermore, recent research has demonstrated that Ritalin can increase cognitive performance in both healthy individuals and in ADHD patients. Such data indicates that Ritalin has the potential to be abused by healthy individuals looking to increase their cognitive performance. Correspondingly, Ritalin has been reported to be used by college students to boost their academic performance. In addition, the over-prescription of Ritalin raises several ethical issues: as children are the most common age group to be diagnosed with the disease, critics question whether prescribing a drug for a behaviourally based diagnosed disease is appropriate; also it is thought that the drug may affect the originality and creativity of the children which may hinder their personal development. While alternative behavioural therapy is available for the disorder, it tends to be more expensive and time-consuming than a drug prescription; this may explain why Ritalin remains the dominant form of treatment. This paper concludes that the prescription of drugs for ADHD should be cautioned and that more time and resources should be invested on developing consistent diagnostic criteria as well as potential alternative treatments to drugs for the disorder.


Personal distress is an aspect of the empathy construct which has been negatively associated with a range of psychological and behavioral problems. However, it is unclear whether mindfulness serves to buffer these negative relationships. This study examines direct effects and mediation effects of personal distress and mindfulness among three measures of professional quality of life: compassion fatigue, burnout, and compassion satisfaction. This model was tested using a sample of clinical social workers (n = 171). Results indicated that higher personal distress is significantly associated with higher compassion fatigue and burnout and lower compassion satisfaction, while mindfulness is significantly associated with lower compassion fatigue and burnout and higher compassion satisfaction. Mediation analyses showed significant indirect effects on all three measures of professional quality of life, with effect sizes in the small to moderate range. The indirect effects of mindfulness via the personal distress path accounted for 14-22% of the total effect of mindfulness on the three measures of professional quality of life. Implications for the education and training of social workers are discussed.


Radio-frequency (RF) test cost is soaring due to the increasing complexity of RF devices. Radically new test approaches that enable test time reduction while ensuring product quality are needed to reduce the overall product cost. In this paper, we present a test development methodology for RF circuits based on novel parametric, open-circuit, and short-circuit defect models. We inject parametric defects as deviations in physical circuit parameters, such as resistances, transistor widths, and lengths, and inject open- and short-circuit defects into the critical locations that are derived from the layout using inductive fault analysis. Despite fault injection, we consider a circuit unacceptable only if it violates any one of the performance specifications. Our test development method aims at reducing not only the number of measurements but also the overall test hardware cost by incorporating the relative setup cost of each measurement into our selection criteria. Experimental results on an RF front-end device show that our test methodology reduces the test time by 50% and the number of test setups by 17% while identifying all unacceptable circuit instances with a 99% failure coverage without any yield loss.


The miscibility of random copolymers (COP), consisting of dimethylsiloxane and methylphenylsiloxane units, with poly(dimethylsiloxane)s (PDMS) was studied in the absence and in the presence of shear experimentally as well as theoretically. Blends of COP 0.86 28 with PDMS 33 (subscripts: volume fraction of DMS in the copolymer, numbers after the abbreviations: weight average molar masses in kg/mol) were investigated far from critical conditions on the PDMS side of the phase diagram. According to these experiments the two phase regime increases by shear without exception and the maximum effects grow from 3 to 12 K as the PDMS concentration increases. Theoretical calculations were performed under the premise that shear destroys clusters of like segments formed under equilibrium conditions. The effects calculated in this manner are of the correct order of magnitude, but their concentration dependence contradicts the measurements. Blends of COP 0.71 7 with PDMS 27, PDMS 33, or PDMS 38 exhibit critical concentrations at approx. 23 wt.-% PDMS. For sufficiently low PDMS contents shear reduces the miscibility again according to experiment and theory. However, measurements demonstrate that the susceptibility of the blends towards shear decreases as the concentration of PDMS increases until the effect changes sign and the homogeneous region expands as the systems flow, in contrast to the calculations which yield a monotonous increase of shear effects. Possible reasons for the observed discrepancies are discussed.


This paper is a review of the literature on recovery from acute myocardial infarction in women. The topic has been subdivided into three areas for presentation: cardiac rehabilitation, return to work and sexual activity. The exploration of the literature revealed the paucity of research on women, but some comparisons could be made between men and women. Compared to men, women appear to utilize cardiac rehabilitation programs less frequently than men and have higher dropout rates, they return to work less frequently and after a longer period of time and resume sexual activity after a longer period of time reporting more symptoms during and after the activity. Investigation of the literature showed that the recovery period for women is incompletely explored and that there is a critical need for research.


NMR spectroscopy in aqueous and dimethyl sulfoxide/water solutions is used to determine the three-dimensional structures of microcystin-LR, a cyclic cyanobacterial heptapeptide toxin which is a potent inhibitor of type 1 and type 2A protein phosphatases. The conformations of this toxic peptide are studied using a simulated annealing (SA) protocol followed by refined SA calculations in vacuo and free MD simulations in water. Only one conformational family in each solvent is found. The peptide ring has a saddle-shaped form, essentially the same in both solvents. The structural difference observed between the two solution structures is located to the part consisting of Mdha, Ala, and Leu. This peptide segment is not present in nodularin, a cyclic pentapeptide of similar toxicity. The Arg side chain is very flexible, while the side chain of Leu is well defined. The side chain of Adda, essential for toxicity, is constrained in the vicinity of the backbone ring but appears to be flexible in the more remote part.


PS-5, a new beta-lactam antibiotic, has relatively potent antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, especially the Enterobacter groups, Serratia marcescens, the Proteus groups and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The activity of PS-5 against many beta-lactamase-producing organisms is greater than that of cefoxitin or cefazolin. PS-5 has good therapeutic activity in mice infected with Staphylococcus aureus Smith or Enterobacter cloacae 45.


Two studies investigated the effect of regrowth and additives on preservation and quality of plantain ensiled in spring using a micro-silage technique. Study 1 compared the effect of regrowth at four (4L), five (5L) or six leaf (6L) appearance. Study 2 compared fertilisers: 20 kg N/ha (20N), 20N plus potassium and phosphorus (20NPK) or 40 kg N/ha with P and K (40NPK) and additives: cellulose enzyme (ENZ), molasses (MOL), Biosil (BIO) or no additives (CON). After 180 days, wet chemistry was performed on all silages. Silages were dark brown and had a sweet smell, though fermentation was limited with an average pH of 5.2 and 5.8 in Study 1 and 2, respectively. However, pH declined (P<0.05) with early harvest, and use of N fertiliser or additives. Harvesting plantain for silage following a long regrowth is not recommended as the high stem content at this time contributed to low crude protein and low digestibility.


Title of Document: TRANSPORT PROPERTIES AND MELT DISTRIBUTION OF PARTIALLY MOLTEN MANTLE ROCKS: INSIGHTS FROM MICROCOMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND VIRTUAL ROCK PHYSICS SIMULATIONS Kevin John Miller, Doctor of Philosophy, 2015 Directed By: Associate Professor Wen-lu Zhu Associate Professor Laurent G.J. Montési Department of Geology Mid-ocean ridges are a fundamental component of plate tectonics on Earth. They are the longest mountain ranges; combined, they stretch over 70,000 km of the Earth's surface. They are significant sources of volcanism, producing more than 20 km of new oceanic crust each year. The volcanism observed at the ridge axis is linked to processes that transport and focus melt in the underlying upper mantle. Typically, upper mantle melt distribution is inferred either through inversion of geophysical data, such as electromagnetic signals, or through geodynamic modeling. Both approaches require robust constitutive relationship between on electrical conductivity, permeability, and porosity. Unfortunately, direct measurements of transport properties of partially molten rock are technically challenging due to the extreme conditions required for melting. This work aims to quantify permeability-porosity and electrical conductivity-porosity relationships of partially molten monomineralic and polymineralic aggregates by simulating fluid flow and direct current within experimentally obtained, high-resolution, threedimensional (3-D) microstructures of partially molten rocks. In this study, I synthesized rocks containing various proportions of olivine, orthopyroxene (opx), and basaltic melt, common components of the upper mantle. I imaged their 3-D microstructure using high-resolution, synchrotron-based X-ray micro-computed tomography. The resulting 3-D geometries constitute virtual rock samples on which pore morphology, permeability, and electrical conductivity were numerically quantified. This work yields microstructure-based electrical conductivity-porosity and permeability-porosity power laws for olivine-melt and olivine-opx-melt aggregates containing melt fractions of 0.02 to 0.20. By directly comparing the velocity and electrical fields, which are outputs of the fluid flow and direct current simulations, respectively, this study provides strong evidence that fluid and electricity travel through distinctly different pathways within the same rock, due to the stronger dependence of fluid flux on hydraulic radius. This study also provides the first quantitative evidence of lithological melt partitioning, where melt fractions spatially associated with olivine are systematically higher than those with orthopyroxene due to the relatively low surface energy density of olivine-melt interfaces with respect to opx-melt interfaces. The results of this study place important, novel constraints on 3D melt distribution and transport properties of the partially molten mantle regions beneath mid-ocean ridges.


Web content accessibility is to which degree a site is accessible to the largest possible range of people, especially for persons with disabilities. The current study comprises four interrelated parts revolving around evaluating and enhancing Web content accessibility.First, a novel measurement metrics called Web Accessibility Barriers (WAB) score is constructed based on published Web accessibility design guidelines. The performance of the measurement metrics is assessed using a Web accessibility gold standard. The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve shows that WAB score separate inaccessible Web pages well from accessible ones with Area Under the Curve (AUC) value of 0.917.Second, using the WAB score, I evaluate the degree of Web accessibility of consumer health information websites. Mean of WAB score of the 108 selected websites is 9.31 with standard deviation of 6.29. Among those websites, government and education websites have lower WAB score - 0.39 and 1.16 respectively. ANalysis Of VAriance (ANOVA) test shows statistical significances across different functional categories of the websites (F=9.705, p < 0.001). In addition, this study shows that WAB score correlated with traffic rank of the websites with (r = 0.32, p < 0.01).Third, a usability study is conducted to examine the performance of a Web Transcoder Gateway (WTG) server for blind Web users to access online information. The WTG server removes Web accessibility barriers in real time based on Web accessibility design guidelines. The study design is a within-subject cross-over design. A mixed model analysis is employed to examine the effect of the WTG server on time, success, errors, and subjective measurement. Sixteen blind Web users took part in the study. Results show that participants spent less time, make few errors, and succeed more on the tasks via WTG server. Participants also feel more satisfactory, less frustrated, and more confident when access online information via WTG server. Observational and anecdotal findings imply that only removing accessibility barriers may not be sufficient to achieve the best usability for blind Web users.Finally, a usability study is conducted to examine the performance of a Web Transcoder Gateway (WTG) server for PDA users to access Web sites. The study design is also a within-subject cross-over design. A mixed model analysis is employed to examine the effect of WTG server on time, success, and subjective measurements. Twenty subjects took part in the study. Results show that participants spend less time on each task via WTG server. Each participant can finish the tasks successfully via either WTG server or non WTG server. This implies that the WTG server can serve as "Electronic Curb Cut" for Web users under constraints. However, the participants show no statistically significant preference to WTG server.


Background:  Autism is a severe long-term neurodevelopmental disorder. Families are increasingly undertaking a gluten and casein free (GFCF) diet in response to largely anecdotal reports of autistic clinical improvement. Exclusion of staple foods can place these children, with self-imposed limited diets, at nutritional risk (Keen, 2007). There is an urgent need to investigate the efficacy of GFCF diets in an adequately powered, medium term, randomised controlled trial (Millward et al., 2007). However, double blinding to the removal of gluten and/or casein is desirable but complex to accomplish. Therefore, this study was essential preparation for a large scale study and investigated the feasibility of producing test foods to achieve double-blinding which are transportable, easy to prepare, palatable and suitable for daily consumption by young children with autism.

Methods:  Heron Foods Cork, developed a range of test foods including a muffin, porridge and batter mix, lemon and almond cookies and chocolate krispie bars. The estimated average habitual intake (Gregory et al., 1995) of gluten (10 g) and/or casein (10 g) was added as outlined below:

Test Food with gluten and casein added; Test Food with added casein only;

Test Food with added gluten only; Test Food with no gluten or casein added.

Groups were randomly labelled A–D. The foods' GFCF status or presence of additions was confirmed by independent assay. R&D and ethical approval was given for health professionals to recruit 60 children with autism (3–6 years) in Newcastle, Edinburgh and London and to randomly allocate to the above groups. Following assessment of eligibility and informed consent, families received a supply of test foods, detailed cooking instructions and behaviour and food preference questionnaires for self-completion. Parents offered test foods for 28 days and recorded daily consumption. As this study investigated the acceptability of the test foods and not the effect of GFCF diet on autism, gluten and casein containing foods were not withdrawn from the child's diet. Telephone dietetic support was available throughout. Outcomes were measured by food consumption diaries, a test foods acceptability questionnaire and telephone interviews with a sub-set of parents. Parents and all researchers were blind to group allocation.

Results:  A total of 52 children were recruited with only three families withdrawing during the 28 days due to food refusal. Results are available for the first 43 children [A – 9, B – 10, C – 13, D – 11]. Of 38 parents responding 63% stated that their children were 'usually willing to try new foods' [A – 86%, B – 67%, C – 42%, D – 70%]. Ninety-five percent of the children (n = 40) [A – 89%, B – 90%, C – 100%, D – 100%] tried at least some foods over the 28 days. Muffins and chocolate krispies were most readily accepted. Porridge and batter mix were least well liked. Children in groups A and D were most likely to consume more of the foods offered. The status of the groups is not yet known but these results suggest that porridge could be removed as an option. At interview parents confirmed these findings and suggested an alternative savoury food item such as bread should be available.

Discussion:  Families demonstrated a high level of motivation and commitment to this study indicating their desire for dietary research in autism. The research team encountering considerable challenges in both the planning and execution of this study, but despite this, a range of test foods have been produced suitable for young children with autism.

Conclusion:  This is the first study to develop and test a range of double-blind test foods for regular consumption by young children with autism. This is essential preparation for a large scale multicentered RCT of gluten and casein free diets in the management of autism.

Funded by Research Autism & The Children's Foundation. This work was supported by the BDA General Education Trust.

References  Gregory, J.R., Collins, D.L., Davies, P.S.W., Hughes, J.M. & Clarke, P.C. (1995) National Diet and Nutrition Survey: children aged 1 1/2 to 4 1/2 years, volume 1: Report of the Diet and Nutrition. London: HMSO.

Keen, D.V. (2007) Childhood autism, feeding problems and failure to thrive in early infancy. Seven case studies. Eur. Child. Adolesc. Psychiatry. Published online Sept 14th 2007.

Millward, C., Ferriter, M., Calver, S., & Connell-Jones, G. (2007) Gluten- and casein-free diets for autistic spectrum disorder. Cochrane Database Syst. Rev.4, CD003498.


This paper applies a semi-parametric approach to estimating a generalised model of investments in energy installations. The model accounts for irreversibility and lumpiness of investments by linking a parametric specification of the unobservable dynamic shadow price to observed investment behaviour using a non-parametric specification of the adjustment cost function. The results suggest that marginal costs of investments in energy installations increase quickly at small investment levels, whereas the increase slows down at higher investment levels. Therefore, standard parametric adjustment cost models are likely biased such that they over-estimate small investments and under-estimate large investments.


Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a crop of increasing interest due to its agro-ecological adaptability and high nutritional properties. Few information is available on the adaptability of quinoa in the Sahel region, and on genotype's phenological, morphological and agronomical responses to different planting methods and sowing density rates. To test the effect of planting and sowing methods, two separate experiments were carried out in Burkina Faso to examine the performance of different genotypes (Titicaca, Puno, Pasankalla and Negra Collana) to multiple planting methods (ridges, dibbling, broadcasting, transplanting, traditional-pits and flat sowing) and sowing density rates (from 80,000 to 200,000 plants ha-1). The results showed significant differences among genotypes in terms of growth attributes, with higher yields when sown in ridges (10.7, 8.4 and 5.7 g plant-1 Puno, Pasankalla and Titicaca, respectively). In addition, higher yields were observed under low density rates, with plant spacing being compensated by changes in branch system. However, higher yields were reported per unit area (Titicaca with 98.8 g m-2) under high density treatments (200,000 plants ha-1). As a conclusion, the use of short cycle varieties (Titicaca and Puno) sown in ridges at high density rates was recommended.

 Key words: Africa, agricultural management, genotypes, phenology, physiology.


This article examines the translation of an official English European Council text, namely a Commission Communication, into Greek. A critical discourse analysis-based methodology is used to probe the manipulation of ideological shifts between the English source text and its Greek translation. The analysis of both texts aims to shed light on the way culturally-approved patterns reflect and also influence society's priorities and preoccupations. The comparative analysis provides an example of how the European Union and its official working language influenced the translator's attitudes and motivations in decoding various ideological patterns. Adopting a social view of political ideologies and their associated readerships, the article discusses how discourse and ideology mediate in the translation of the English-Greek language pair. It shows how discourse reinforces ideological assumptions and how it challenges them by emphasizing that the source culture violates the very norms and values the target culture holds dear.


Crime is one of the consequences of fluctuations in the economic condition of a country. Crime incidents harm many parties. The number of criminal acts increased in 2019, especially in Sumatra and Java Island. Most provinces experienced an increasing number of criminal acts, one of them was East Java. East Java contributed more than a quarter of the number of crimes throughout Java Island. The number of criminal acts is count data with overdispersion because its variance is higher than its average. This study aims to analyze the number of criminal acts by applying Geographically Weighted Negative Binomial Regression (GWNBR). The result shows that GWNBR formed two regional groups based on significant variables. The four independent variables namely the unemployment rate, the number of poor people, the Gini ratio, and the police population ratio have a significant effect on all districts/cities. However, the mean year of schooling shows a significant effect only in certain districts/cities. The GWNBR is the best model in modelling the number of criminal acts in East Java.