I. INTRODUCTION Though many jurisdictions have adopted competition laws in recent decades, none of these laws has engendered the level of interest sparked by China's proposed Anti-Monopoly Law ("AML"). Several factors have combined to inspire an unprecedented flow of commentary and consortia on each iteration of China's draft AML. These factors include the sheer scale and astounding growth of China's markets, the vast amounts of foreign capital recently invested in China, the burgeoning sales of Chinese goods abroad, the substantial growth in the participation of Chinese firms in foreign markets, and a recognition of the significant challenge posed by the establishment of free market competition in China's socialist market economy. To China's great credit, the State Council,1 the Ministry of Commerce ("MOFCOM"),2 the National Development and Reform Commission ("NDRC"),3 and the State Administration for Industry and Commerce ("SAIC")4 have solicited and studied numerous sets of comments from public and private organizations, companies, and academic experts around the world. The language of the draft AML pending before the National People's Congress ("NPC") has incorporated many of these useful comments. However, concerns about the current draft remain. Broadly speaking, China's economy presents three principal features raising competition concerns: so-called local blockage or regional monopolies;5 sectoral monopolies by Chinese firms, including state-owned enterprises ("SOEs"); and a perception of alleged abuses of dominant positions by some foreign multinationals. Earlier drafts of the proposed AML contained a chapter prohibiting so-called administrative monopolies, which are typically large "local champions" protected from competition by local and regional government bodies. The elimination of that chapter from the November 11, 2005 Draft AML ("Current Draft AML" or "November 2005 Draft AML")6 essentially exempts such anticompetitive conduct from the reach of the Anti-Monopoly Law. Another recent revision to Article 2 of the Current Draft AML has subordinated the Anti-Monopoly Law to administrative laws and regulations that cover specific industries or sectors of the economy. A related revision to Article 38 of the AML gives sectoral and industrial organs of the State Council the initial authority to investigate and apply special sectoral regulations to alleged anticompetitive conduct in industries and sectors governed by such special laws and regulations. The revision also allows these organs of the State Council to report the outcome of their investigations to the Anti-Monopoly Law Enforcement Authority (the "Anti-Monopoly Authority," "Anti-Monopoly Law Enforcement Authority," or "Authority").7 Only in the event that such organs fail to conduct an investigation may the Authority initiate an investigation. Even under these circumstances, the Authority must consult with the relevant sectoral and industrial organs of the State Council. These changes pose a severe impediment to applying the Anti-Monopoly Law to many significant industries and economic sectors of the Chinese economy. As a consequence of these revisions, enforcement efforts will, at least initially, likely focus on foreign companies. The insulation of broad swaths of the Chinese economy from equal application of transparent competition rules risks depriving Chinese consumers of the benefits of market competition and may disincentivize continued foreign investment in China. Certain substantive provisions in the Current Draft AML appear to be inconsistent with international norms of competition law. Foremost among these is a vague article stating that an "abuse" of intellectual property ("IP") rights resulting in the elimination or restriction of competition is subject to sanctions under the law. The absence of any definition of what conduct may constitute such an abuse of IP rights, and the possible imposition of compulsory licensing as a remedy, have engendered expressions of great concern, especially from foreign high technology companies with substantial operations or sales in China. …


An oscillatory shear configuration was developed to improve understanding of structural evolution during deformation. It combines an inverted confocal scanning laser microscope (CSLM) and a special sample holder that can apply to the sample specific deformation: oscillatory shear or steady strain. In this configuration, a zero-velocity plane is created in the sample by moving two plates in opposite directions, thereby providing stable observation conditions of the structural behavior under deformation. The configuration also includes diffusion wave spectroscopy (DWS) to monitor the network properties via particle mobility under static and dynamic conditions. CSLM and DWS can be performed simultaneously and three-dimensional images can be obtained under static conditions. This configuration is mainly used to study mechanistic phenomena like particle interaction, aggregation, gelation and network disintegration, interactions at interfaces under static and dynamic conditions in semisolid food materials (desserts, dressings, sauces, dairy products) and in nonfood materials (mineral emulsions, etc.). Preliminary data obtained with this new oscillatory shear configuration are described that demonstrate their capabilities and the potential contribution to other areas of application also.


Purpose: Quadriceps is composite muscle of four portions rectus femoris, vastus intermedius, vastus medialis and vatus lateralis. It is inserted into patella through common tendon with three layered arrangement rectus femoris superficially, vastus lateralis and vatus medialis in the intermediate layer and vatus intermedius deep to it. Most literatures do not take into account its complex and variable morphology while describing the extensor mechanism of knee, and wide functional role it plays in stability of knee joint. It has been widely studied clinically, mainly individually in foreign context, but little attempt has been made to look into morphology of quadriceps group. The diverse functional aspect of quadriceps group, and the gap in the literature on morphological aspect particularly in our region what prompted us to review detail morphology of this group. Method: Study consisted dissection of 40 lower limbs (20 rights and 20 left) from 20 embalmed cadavers from Department of Anatomy Rural Medical College, PIMS Loni, Ahmednagar (M) India. Results: Rectus femoris was a separate entity in all the cases. Vastus medialis as well as vastus lateralis found to have two parts, as oblique and longus. Quadriceps group had variability in fusion between members of the group. The extent of fusion also varied greatly. The laminar arrangement of Quadriceps group found as bilaminar or trilaminar. The insertion level of vastus medialis and vastus lateralis on patella varied greatly. Vastus lateralis found to extent to whole extent of lateral border of patella. The extension of fibrous band like structure from lower horizontal fibers of vastus medialis to adductor tubercle also noticed in one case. Conclusion: There is wide variability in the quadriceps group of muscles that we came across, then believed. This variability in the quadriceps group might affect the stability of the knee joint but needs, to prove clinically. The finding may also help in the understanding the factors associated with anterior knee pain and its management.


Exact closed-form stress intensity factor (SIF) solutions have been developed for a mode- I through-thickness cracks in an infinite plate. Centre-crack problems have been analysed comprehensively in the literature, but the focus has been on the effect of simple loading about the crack centre. In the current work, the formula of Sih-Paris-Erdogan has been extended to consider the SIF difference on the left and right crack tips, under the local influence of general asymmetric and symmetric stress field. Exact SIF magnification factors convenient for computations have been derived that simultaneously circumvent the problem of crack-tip stress singularity. The solutions so obtained are applied to generate the residual SIFs that would act on a crack growing under the influence of the residual stress fields associated with welded plates and cold-worked holes using the measured residual stress profiles.


Carbon capture and underground gas storage technologies have been an area of significant focus in oil and gas industry over the past few decades. They reduce the carbon footprint of oilfield activities and have a critical role in the energy transition efforts by the industry. This study focuses on conducting a thorough review of literature related to latest advances in carbon capture and underground gas storage methods including real-field applications of these technologies. The future potential of these technologies in enabling the oil and gas industry to achieve its ESG goals are also discussed.
 This chapter examines carbon capture and underground gas storage (CCS) technologies and summarizes various types of CCS techniques such as post-combustion, pre-combustion, and oxyfuel combustion. It describes the important operational principles, efficient methods of technology deployment, and best practices to ensure positive project economics. Additionally, the use of the CCS as a method to enable enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in the oil and gas industry, as well as application areas and challenges faced in the use of CCS in oilfield operations, are discussed. The latest advances in this technology from a global perspective and the future potential of CCS as a critical driver in helping achieve sustainability goals for the oil and gas industry are summarized.
 Critical factors related to the application of the CCS, including the key decision variables to be considered while implementing projects that uses these technologies are provided to be used as a guideline in decision making. Examples of the use of these technologies to improve the sustainability of oil and gas production operations are provided, as well as the benefits, drawbacks, and challenges in scaling up the use of these technologies in fields are discussed in detail.
 This study closes the gap in the literature by providing a comprehensive overview of the current status of the CCS technologies and guidelines for their implementation in oil and gas fields. It serves as a single source of information to the oil and gas industry, while laying out relevant data and information related to the CCS technologies, highlighting the latest advances in their application and the future of these technologies from a global perspective.


The introduction of innovative filled methacrylate resin composites has revolutionised the field of aesthetic restorative dentistry and provided a clinically viable alternative to amalgam-based restorations. The mechano-physical properties and resultant clinical longevity of these materials was insufficient. To improve these properties the on-going development of resin-based composites (RBCs) has sought to modify the filler size and morphology and to improve the loading and distribution of constituent filler particles. This has resulted in the introduction of so-called 'nanofills' which possess a combination of nano- and micro-sized filler to produce a hybrid material. A variation to this approach was the introduction of 'nanocluster' particles, which are essentially an agglomeration of nano-sized silica and zirconia particles. Although these materials have demonstrated a degree of clinical and experimental success debate remains as to their specific benefit compared with existing conventionally filled systems. Following placement RBC restorations are exposed to masticatory loading (repeated sub-critical stresses) which are typically detrimental to the clinical longevity of the material. The current study determined that RBCs reinforced with the 'nanocluster' particles possessed statistically similar or significantly increased bi-axial flexure strengths and associated Weibull moduli following pre-loading regimes which produced catastrophic failure of conventionally filled RBCs. This was attributed to the unique reinforcement provided by the 'nanocluster' particle, which were identified by a novel micromanipulation technique to possess distinctive fracture mechanisms, in addition to possessing an IPC-like structure. These acted in combination to absorb and dissipate loading stresses and to provide enhanced damage tolerance. Near-infra-red spectroscopy was also employed to determine the water sorption and it did not identify any direct correlation between water content and extent of strength reduction. However, immersion of the materials in water and also in sodium hydroxide or ethanol highlighted that the long-term hydrolytic stability of the 'nanoclusters' was limited. This suggested that degradation of the interfacial silane layer weakened the 'nanocluster' particle causing them to act as defect centres within the resin matrix and to consequently generate a greater loss of strength. Therefore, whilst the 'nanocluster' reinforced RBCs have the potential to provide enhanced damage tolerance and improved clinical longevity the limited long-term hydrolytic stability suggests further development of hydrophilic silane coupling agents and resin monomers is required to realize these properties.


Korea has realized remarkable economic growth in the past 3 decades consequently the rate of female employment increased from 39.6% in 1975 to 45.0% in 1980. It is estimated that 1500000 children need child care but only 200000 can afford it. Although 200 voluntary small-scale community child care centers in low-income areas meet the need of some double-income married couples they do not suffice. The research objectives were to assess actual conditions of family and community child-care to devise standards for founding child-care centers; to develop educational courses for caregivers in small-scale child-care and to develop child-care programs for children under age 3. The sample consisted of 60 childcare agencies. 30 family child-care practitioners were selected from among the trainees of 7 child-care education centers Seoul and 30 community child-care centers were chosen from the metropolitan area from among the members of the Community Child-Care Association and the Catholic Child-Care Association. 5 researchers were employed and trained. Caregivers in family and community child-care centers were interviewed from August 28 1989 to September 24 1989 by means of a questionnaire. 59 (98.3%) of 60 subjects answered the questionnaire. 96.7% of the programs had full-day child-care and 94.9% had mixed-age children. 66.1% of the programs were open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM and 49 programs (85.9%) were open more than 10 hours a day. All the caregivers were women with education above the high school level. 93.2% had completed child-care education programs and 79.7% had graduated from in-service programs. 76.3% were using a general educational plan. 11.9% had no outdoor playground although 76.3% included picnics in their program. Based on the findings it is recommended that the standard should be a full-day mixed-age child-care system with more systematic program planning parental education and links to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.


This paper reports the results from a survey of 38 small sole- proprietor estate surveying and valuation firms in Lagos, Nigeria. A 45% questionnaire retrieval rate was achieved while CEOs/owners of estate surveying and valuation firms were interviewed. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the respondents" general characteristics as well as their attitude toward business succession planning. The study found that sole-proprietor firm owners desired that their firms outlive them through transferring of the firms" businesses to their next generation. However, majority of these sole proprietors" next generation were not keen on pursuing real estate business related courses in their undergraduate days in view of their exposure to modern technology and the influence of peers. Also, the study found that the owners of these firms have not, as a matter of policy, planned for their succession because of the cultural and attitudinal beliefs and values, which forbid thoughts about death or incapacitation about a living soul. As a result, the study indicated that only 5% of sole proprietor estate surveying and valuation firms in this category have continued to the second generation in the study area. This outcome has serious implications for small professional service businesses" economic and job creation potential for Nigeria.


In this paper we present our experiences in wrapping a parallel multidimensional quadrature routine, based on the BLACS message-passing library, in order to obtain a software component computing multiple multidimensional integrals. The reference framework, where the component lives, is a programming environment called ASSIST, under development in the context of Italian research projects, which combines the component model with the structured parallel programming model. The approach described here not only allows to reuse the quadrature routine, preserving all its features, but also defines a general methodology for encapsulating into components existing parallel software that uses MPI or MPI-based implementations of BLACS, without changes to the software itself.


The major functions of granulosa cells (GCs) include the production of steroids, as well as a myriad of growth factors to interact with the oocyte during its development within the ovarian follicle. Also FSH stimulates GCs to convert androgens (coming from the thecal cells) to estradiol by aromatase. However, after ovulation the GCs produce progesterone that may maintain a potential pregnancy. Experiments with human GCs are mainly focused on the purification of GCs from ovarian follicular fluid followed by FACS analysis or short-term cultivation. The aim of our study was to cultivate GCs for a long period, to characterize their morphology and phenotype. Moreover, we have cultivated GCs under gonadotropin stimulation in order to simulate different pathological mechanisms during folliculogenesis (e.g. ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome). GCs were harvested from women undergoing in vitro fertilization. Complex oocyte-cumulus oophorus was dissociated by hyaluronidase. The best condition for transport of GCs was optimized as short transport in follicular fluid at 37 degrees C. GCs expansion medium consisted of DMEM/F12, 2% FCS, ascorbic acid, dexamethasone, L-glutamine, gentamycine, penicillin, streptomycin and growth factors (EGF, bFGF). GCs transported in follicular fluid and cultivated in 2% FCS containing DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with follicular fluid presented increased adhesion, proliferation, viability and decreased doubling time. Cell viability was 92% and mean cell doubling time was 52 hrs. We have optimized transport and cultivation protocols for long-term cultivation of GCs.


Kinetoplastea Trypanosomatidae are unicellular flagellated parasites of different kind of hosts. They cause diseases in plants, animals and humans. These parasites are transmitted by insect vectors in a wide range of geographic areas. In this communication we review the interactions between trypanosomatid parasites, their hosts and thoughts about their impact on environmental health, especially in those regions where hosts are natural reserves of many species. The interactions of these parasites and their hosts in some cases have great economic and environmental impact. We also address the genetic mechanisms that determine variability in some specific taxa. Two cell fusion and recombination of nuclear genomes and mitochondrial introgression seems to be the mechanisms that produce the greatest variability. However, these organisms most frequently reproduce clonally. Finally the mechanisms of the trypanosomatids response to environmental changes in their host are also analyzed. Review ARticle


To search for a potential role of T cell antigen receptor (TcR) γ/β‐bearing cells in host‐defense against Listeria monocytogenes, we analyzed the sequential appearance of γ/δ and α/β T cell in the peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) during an i.p. infection with sublethal dose (2 × 103) of viable Listeria organisms in mice. The PEC on day 1 after the infection consisted of 48% macrophages and 50% lymphocytes, most of which were surface IgM+ (B) cells. The number of PEC increased to the maximal level by day 3. The PEC at this stage contained an appreciable number of CD3+ T cells in addition to a large number of macrophages. Of the CD3+ cells, the proportion of CD4−CD8− cells, most of which expressed no TcR α/β, increased to the maximal level on day 3 after the infection. In correlation with an increased number of CD3+CD4−CD8−TcR α/β− cells, high level of TcR γ/δ chain gene messages was detected in the nonadherent population of the PEC on this stage. On the other hand, the PEC on day 8 contained an increased number of CD4+CD8− and CD4−CD8+ cells which expressed TcR α/β chain on their surface. These results suggest that the γ/δ T cells precede the α/β T cells in appearance during listerial infection. The γ/β T cells may be involved at the first line of the host‐defense against Listeria.


First paragraph: In the second half of the 19th century and early 20th century, a number of reformers responded to the horrific conditions of life in the expanding industrial cities of Europe and North America by calling for the transformation of modern cities through a rationalized system for producing built environments that can accommodate growing populations while improving living conditions. As Carolyn Steel has rightly pointed out, food has long shaped our cities (Steel, 2008), and food did hold a central place in the theories of many of the key early thinkers about cities and land.[1] These theories were intimately connected to urban reforms through a range of progressive but paternalistic urban design interventions that consciously sought to weave the green shade and restfulness of the countryside into city parks, street tree plantings, urban allotment gardens, and green river and canal banks. On a darker note, the healthy relaxation touted by garden enthusiasts also served to shift the burden of sustenance away from industrialists and fair-wage policies and onto the shoulders of urbanizing families, especially the women in them (cf. Bellows, 2004). But on balance, garden spaces in densely populated cities and factory settlements offered valuable  nourishment and quiet retreats from the chaos of work and cycles of economic instability and war. [1] Just to cite some key theorists who gave a central place to the food system in their thinking about urban settlements: Henry George, von Thunen, Ebenezer Howard, Patrick Geddes, Frank Lloyd Wright.


Radiation therapy is widely used to treat a variety of malignant tumors, including non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, ionizing radiation (IR) paradoxically promotes radioresistance, metastasis and recurrence by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cells (CSCs). Here, we developed two NSCLC radioresistant (RR) cell lines (A549-RR and H1299-RR) and characterized their motility, cell cycle distribution, DNA damage, and CSC production using migration/invasion assays, flow cytometry, comet assays, and sphere formation, respectively. We also evaluated their tumorigenicity in vivo using a mouse xenograft model. We found that invasion and spheroid formation by A549-RR and H1299-RR cells were increased as compared to their parental cells. Furthermore, as compared to radiation alone, the combination of β-elemene administration with radiation increased the radiosensitivity of A549 cells and reduced expression of EMT/CSC markers while inhibiting the Prx-1/NF-kB /iNOS signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that NSCLC radioresistance is associated with EMT, enhanced CSC phenotypes, and activation of the Prx-1/NF-kB/iNOS signaling pathway. They also suggest that combining β-elemene with radiation may be an effective means of overcoming radioresistance in NSCLC.


Sample-based (or adaptive) block codes represent a transitional case: while the exact parameters of a source are not known, one can obtain finite length sequences of symbols (or samples) produced by this source in the past. It turns out, that using such samples it is possible to construct codes that are more efficient in encoding this particular source than pure universal codes. In order to be able to compare adaptive codes and codes for a known source more precisely one clearly needs to know the exact expression of an O (1/n). Obtaining the exact expression for this and subsequent terms describing the average behavior of adaptive block codes is the main goal of this paper.


Author(s): Chialastri, Andrea | Advisor(s): Isaacson, Michael | Abstract: Integrated building elements, which combine their structural, control and architectural functions with that of energy generation, are expected to become increasingly important in the future scenario of energy efficient buildings, and they could significantly contribute to the thermal behavior of the building envelope in order to provide energy savings. A prototype of a building-integrated photovoltaic thermal (BIPV/T) solar air collector was built, consisting of a double-glazed airflow window wall with photovoltaic (PV) louvers embedded in it. The collector is intended to either be used as a modular window wall unit that would form a ventilated double-skin facade, or as an independent airflow window, and it provides combined heat and power generation, while still allowing light transmission, shading control and thermal insulation as a conventional window.In this work, the prototype's thermal and electrical performance have been tested, and the experimental data served to develop and validate a thermo-fluid dynamic model in COMSOL Multiphysics. This served as a first reference model and starting point to build more expanded 2D models, as well as to develop 3D models of some portions of the window, which were used for optimization and design by editing the prototype's features, such as geometrical layout, material properties and operational parameters. CFD simulations were used to enhance PV cooling and thermal insulation, in order to optimize both the thermal and electrical efficiency. The optimization of the glazing system, frame heat losses minimization and several strategies for PV-to-air heat transfer enhancement are discussed. These included parametric analysis of the effects of airflow rate and glass spacing on PV temperature and thermal generation, the use of extended surfaces and a new layer structure of the PV absorbers. The field measurements on existing prototype determined a maximum temperature rise of 31 °C and average thermal and electrical efficiency of 31% and 7%, respectively. The optimization showed that significant increases in air temperature rise and thermal efficiency by up to 70% and 60%, respectively, as well as up to 25% decrease in PV temperature can be achieved. Lastly, the design of new prototypes in SolidWorks, which were developed based on the simulation results, are presented.


We proposed in a previous paper a hybrid technique, combining local steering behaviors and coordination graphs (CG), that allows real-time motion planning of multiple agents in a narrow passage. This hybrid technique not only avoids deadlocks, but also exhibits other interesting behaviors such as leader following, even though they are not explicitly coded in the algorithm. In this paper, we build upon the earlier result, and propose a two-layered approach to motion planning of multiple agents in virtual environments, consisting of open spaces connected by multiple narrow passages. The discrete generalized Voronoi diagram (GVD) of the static environment is used to identify all narrow passages automatically. The global path of each agent is also planned using the GVD. As each agent moves along its global path, it is locally modified using the hybrid technique combining steering behaviors with coordination graphs. Experimental results show that the resulting planner is able to plan motions of 30 agents in a virtual environment with three narrow passages in real-time, and the pre-processing phase of our approach is extremely fast. Since all planning is done in real-time, the approach allows an agent to change its final destination at runtime


Introduction Worldwide more than 30 million people move through prisons each year. Record linkage studies have identified a markedly increased risk of death in ex-prisoners. In order to inform preventive interventions it is first necessary to understand who is most at risk, when and why. Unfortunately, limitations of existing studies have rendered synthesis and interpretation of this literature problematic. Methods Systematic review of studies using record linkage to explore mortality in ex-prisoners. Based on analysis of >20 studies, we illustrate how methodological limitations and heterogeneity of design, analysis and reporting both hamper data synthesis and create potential for misinterpretation of findings. Using data from a recent Australian study involving 42 015 ex-prisoners and 2329 observed deaths, we quantify the variation in findings associated with various approaches. Results For example, given the very different age distributions of prisoners and the general population, the all-cause SMR among the cohort was 1.4 (95% CI 1.4 to 1.5) using direct methods and 3.1 (95% CI 3.0 to 3.2) using indirect methods. When the period of observation was constrained to 12 months from any release, the indirect SMR increased to 5.3 (95% CI 4.9 to 5.7). Similarly, when analyses were based on the first occasion of release during the period of observation the CMR was 9.3 (95% CI 8.4 to 10.3) per 1000 py, whereas based on the most recent release the CMR rose to 16.9 (95% CI 15.6 to 18.2) per 1000 py. Conclusion We conclude with a series of recommendations for future studies, and provide a checklist for optimising study design, analysis and reporting.


OBJECTIVE
The authors' laboratory has previously demonstrated beneficial effects of noninvasive low intensity focused ultrasound (liFUS), targeted at the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), for reducing allodynia in rodent neuropathic pain models. However, in rats the DRG is 5 mm below the skin when approached laterally, while in humans the DRG is typically 5-8 cm deep. Here, using a modified liFUS probe, the authors demonstrated the feasibility of using external liFUS for modulation of antinociceptive responses in neuropathic swine.

METHODS
Two cohorts of swine underwent a common peroneal nerve injury (CPNI) to induce neuropathic pain. In the first cohort, pigs (14 kg) were iteratively tested to determine treatment parameters. liFUS penetration to the L5 DRG was verified by using a thermocouple to monitor tissue temperature changes and by measuring nerve conduction velocity (NCV) at the corresponding common peroneal nerve (CPN). Pain behaviors were monitored before and after treatment. DRG was evaluated for tissue damage postmortem. Based on data from the first cohort, a treatment algorithm was developed, parameter predictions were verified, and neuropathic pain was significantly modified in a second cohort of larger swine (20 kg).

RESULTS
The authors performed a dose-response curve analysis in 14-kg CPNI swine. Specifically, after confirming that the liFUS probe could reach 5 cm in ex vivo tissue experiments, the authors tested liFUS in 14-kg CPNI swine. The mean ± SEM DRG depth was 3.79 ± 0.09 cm in this initial cohort. The parameters were determined and then extrapolated to larger animals (20 kg), and predictions were verified. Tissue temperature elevations at the treatment site did not exceed 2°C, and the expected increases in the CPN NCV were observed. liFUS treatment eliminated pain guarding in all animals for the duration of follow-up (up to 1 month) and improved allodynia for 5 days postprocedure. No evidence of histological damage was seen using Fluoro-Jade and H&E staining.

CONCLUSIONS
The results demonstrate that a 5-cm depth can be reached with external liFUS and alters pain behavior and allodynia in a large-animal model of neuropathic pain.


BACKGRAOUND: The assessment of quality of life has been considered an essential parameter in understanding the impact of arterial hypertension. OBJECTIVE: To translate into portuguese, cross-culturally adapt and validate the questionnaire specific for the assessment of quality of life known as "Mini Cuestionario de Calidad de Vida en Hipertension Arterial" (MINICHAL). METHODS: Two independent translations of MINICHAL were made into brazilian portuguese. Later, these two translations were harmonized yielding a version that was back-translated into the source language. This version was revised by a committee of judges and the new version was tested in a pilot study. After the cross-cultural adaptation, the final version of the instrument was administered to a sample of 300 patients. The psychometric properties of the questionnaire such as reliability and construct validity were analyzed. The internal consistency of the instrument was measured by Cronbach's alpha coefficient. RESULTS: In the brazilian version of MINICHAL, Cronbach's alpha coefficients of internal consistency reliability were 0.88 for the Mental Status domain and 0.85 for the Somatic Manifestations domain. As to content validity, the judges' assessment attained a high level of agreement (75.44%). The factor analysis confirmed both domains, with differences in one item which was included in factor 2. The control group presented significant differences relative to hypertensive patients (t=4.86, gl=276.8, p< 0.001). CONCLUSION: The brazilian version of MINICHAL was successfully validated and represents a useful and reliable instrument for assessing the quality of life of brazilian hypertensive patients.


Spousal loss has been frequently identified as a life stressor that can greatly impede one's ability to age at home. The purpose of this study is to identify the occupational changes that commonly result after this event and their impacts on one's ability to age in place. This study utilized a qualitative phenomenological research design. Eight participants were recruited from an educational program for older adults and were interviewed using a semi-structured interview format. Researchers transcribed and coded all interviews to determine emergent themes. Two major categories of themes were found: occupational and intrinsic responses. The areas of occupation that were most commonly identified include: social participation, caregiving, activities of daily living, financial and household management, meal preparation, and leisure. Intrinsic responses were identified as autonomy, intrapersonal transition, and filling in time. Occupational and intrinsic responses occur transactionally and influence each other. Older adults may need to effectively address changes to both of these categories to facilitate successful aging in place after partner loss.


ABSTRACT A great deal of recent sociological scholarship in Canada has examined the 'unsettling' process motivating non-Natives or 'settlers' to act in solidarity with Indigenous movements and their experiences of becoming unsettled through such engagements. Informed by settler colonialism and Indigenous studies concerns, such conceptualizations of unsettling have focused primarily on individual trajectories', in conjunction with an overriding normative emphasis on settlers' active support for, and accountability to, Indigenous leadership.While invaluable, these predominating conerns leave open questions about the scope of appropriate agency for non-Native people in challenging settler colonialism. Scholarship to date lacks an explicit affirmative model for settlers to interrupt the routine institutional reproduction of settler colonial understandings, discourses and practices, which also limits its applicability to the United States context. Drawing upon sociological concerns with the institutional and organizational reproduction of power, the article discusses and disentangles differing notions of unsettling and suggests that, under larger covering norms of following Indigenous leadership and relationality, settlers can actively destabilize the reproduction of settler colonial reality through a disruptive form of quotidian agency wherever they are.


Uncertainties in hydrologic parameters could have significant impacts on the simulated water and energy fluxes and land surface states, which will in turn affect atmospheric processes and the carbon cycle. Quantifying such uncertainties is an important step toward better understanding and quantification of uncertainty of integrated earth system models. In this paper, we introduce an uncertainty quantification (UQ) framework to analyze sensitivity of simulated surface fluxes to selected hydrologic parameters in the Community Land Model (CLM4) through forward modeling. Thirteen flux tower footprints spanning a wide range of climate and site conditions were selected to perform sensitivity analyses by perturbing the parameters identified. In the UQ framework, prior information about the parameters was used to quantify the input uncertainty using the Minimum-Relative-Entropy approach. The quasi-Monte Carlo approach was applied to generate samples of parameters on the basis of the prior pdfs. Simulations corresponding to sampled parameter sets were used to generate response curves and response surfaces and statistical tests were used to rank the significance of the parameters for output responses including latent (LH) and sensible heat (SH) fluxes. Overall, the CLM4 simulated LH and SH show the largest sensitivity to subsurface runoff generation parameters. However, study sites with deepmore » root vegetation are also affected by surface runoff parameters, while sites with shallow root zones are also sensitive to the vadose zone soil water parameters. Generally, sites with finer soil texture and shallower rooting systems tend to have larger sensitivity of outputs to the parameters. Our results suggest the necessity of and possible ways for parameter inversion/calibration using available measurements of latent/sensible heat fluxes to obtain the optimal parameter set for CLM4. This study also provided guidance on reduction of parameter set dimensionality and parameter calibration framework design for CLM4 and other land surface models under different hydrologic and climatic regimes.« less


This pilot program tested the feasibility of connecting patients receiving medical care from 98point6 (a virtual healthcare platform that leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to deliver primary care through a text-based, smartphone interface) with the 2Morrow app (a behavioral health platform that utilizes acceptance commitment therapy [ACT] to address key chronic disease drivers and conditions). It also evaluated the potential for future clinical research using this methodology.
Materials and methods: Adult patients of 98point6 who expressed one of several behavioral health concerns (tobacco addiction, pain, stress/anxiety, or weight management) were evaluated by a board-certified primary care physician. They were subsequently given the recommendation to download the 2Morrow app and use one of the ACT-based programs at no cost. De-identified data were collected about 2Morrow app usage. Surveys were sent to patients via email at 7 and 28 days post-recommendation to collect information about their experience using the app.
Results: From April to October 2018, 98point6 and 2Morrow conducted a pilot program to offer the 2Morrow app to patients who expressed concern about any of the following topics: tobacco addiction, pain, stress/anxiety, or weight management. 98point6 providers recommended the 2Morrow app to 28 patients, 16 of whom downloaded the app and used at least one 2Morrow program. Five patients used multiple modules within the 2Morrow app. De-identified data are presented regarding those patients who used the app and which modules were accessed and with what frequency. Four patients completed the post-recommendation user surveys.
Conclusions: The 98point6 virtual healthcare patients showed good adherence to the recommendation for ACT delivered through a mobile app. Patients followed through on physician recommendations at rates equivalent to similar published studies. A clinical trial to measure patient satisfaction, compliance, and outcomes is feasible. The ability to treat several behavioral health concerns commonly seen in primary care using an entirely digital healthcare plan deserves additional study.


We examined the association between pesticide exposure and cognitive development among rural Costa Rican children in a cross-sectional study. Study participants aged 4-10 years included 17 children whose parents worked in La Amistad organic coffee plantation and 18 Las Mellizas children whose parents worked in their own small conventional coffee farms. Two spot-urine samples were collected from each participant and analyzed for organophosphorus and pyrethroids pesticide metabolites. We administered the computerized Behavioral Assessment and Research System (BARS), a figure-drawing task, and a long-term memory test to evaluate study participant's cognitive development. Although urinary pesticide metabolite levels did not vary considerably between these two groups of children, we found that Las Mellizas children performed better in BARS and the figure drawing tests than did La Amistad. The results from the linear mixed-effects models suggested that family socioeconomic status (SES) might be a significant contributor to the variation of the outcomes of the neurobehavioral tests. The effect of pesticide exposure, however, as measured in a snapshot fashion, did not play a significant role to the performance of the cognitive development evaluation. Regardless of the study limitations, needed effort should be devoted to the improvement of the SES on the La Amistad families so that their children's cognitive development would not be compromised further. Additionally, future studies should focus on addressing the limitations imposed on the snapshot assessment of pesticide exposure and on conducting cognitive development evaluation so the link between childhood pesticide exposure and their cognitive development can be thoroughly investigated.


The Biebrza wetlands are located in an ice-marginal valley in northeastern Poland and cover some
195 000 hectares. The Biebrza river is not regulated, the valley is not reclaimed and still has
marsh, fen and grassland vegetation whereas large scale human interventions in hydrology are
absent. The most characteristic feature of the Biebrza river is flooding, which occurs almost every
year during the spring thaw. During these floods the inundated wetlands covers many km2. This
water may in principle derive from three different sources: 1) rain and snow-melt water, 2) river
water and 3) groundwater. We developed a method to distinguish these water sources enabling us
to estimate the area inundated by the different water types. Our analysis was based on long term
monitoring of water levels via gauge stations and an in depth analysis of floods for the period
2001-2008. We used Landsat images, field surveys during floods and chemical analysis of water
samples. The satellite images of the Landsat 5 TM and the Landsat 7 ETM+ captured during
maximum flood were processed. This included the calculation of ratio of bands 7/4, the
Normalized Differential Vegetation Index (NDVI) and a Principal Component Analysis (PCA).
The results of these transformations were stored in new bands and were classified by using the
maximum likelihood classifier for identification of inundated areas. The image of 2002 was
verified with high overall accuracy on the basis of 796 sample points. Samples obtained from
hydro-chemical transects were statistically analyzed using PCA. The results of the statistical
analysis were imported to ArcGIS. Geographical analysis resulted in maps depicting the spatial
distribution of the first three principal components. K-means cluster analysis was performed by
establishing clusters, which finally were interpreted as representing the three different water
sources: river, groundwater and snowmelt. Validation was performed by comparing the results
with vegetation maps. There was a good match between water sources and generalized vegetation
maps. We conclude that the method was demonstrated to be useful for analysing vast floodplain
wetlands in which it is relevant to know the spatial distribution of different water sources during
inundations. In the case of ecological studies aiming at conservation/restoration of habitat
condition within floodplain wetlands, there is a need to know the balance between water from
different sources. Distinguishing different water sources during inundation of river floodplains is
also important for constructing and verification of floodplain hydrodynamic models.


Background Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are persistent and bioaccumulative flame retardants, which are found in rising concentrations in human tissues. They are of concern for human health because animal studies have shown that they possess the potential to be developmentally neurotoxic. Objective Because there is little knowledge of the effects of PBDEs on human brain cells, we investigated their toxic potential for human neural development in vitro. Moreover, we studied the involvement of thyroid hormone (TH) disruption in the effects caused by PBDEs. Methods We used the two PBDE congeners BDE-47 and BDE-99 (0.1–10 μM), which are most prominent in human tissues. As a model of neural development, we employed primary fetal human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs), which are cultured as neurospheres and mimic basic processes of brain development in vitro: proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Results PBDEs do not disturb hNPC proliferation but decrease migration distance of hNPCs. Moreover, they cause a reduction of differentiation into neurons and oligodendrocytes. Simultaneous exposure with the TH receptor (THR) agonist triiodothyronine rescues these effects on migration and differentiation, whereas the THR antagonist NH-3 does not exert an additive effect. Conclusion PBDEs disturb development of hNPCs in vitro via endocrine disruption of cellular TH signaling at concentrations that might be of relevance for human exposure.


Abstract Melt compositions in equilibrium with peridotite assemblages were determined in the analogue system Na2O-CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2-CO2 at 3 GPa with Ca/Ca + Mg = 0.56−0.43 and up to 6 wt.% Na2O. There is a greater compositional range generated isobarically over a larger temperature interval than in a sodium-absent system: increasing sodium content drives liquids to compositions with lower CaO and higher SiO2 concentrations. A positive correlation between silica and Na2O content of liquids produced at constant temperature is due to the depolymerization of silicate tetrahedra in the presence of monovalent cations, as in the volatile-free system. Liquids with Na2O >6 wt.% occur in association with wehrlites as the composition of diopsidic pyroxene expands towards enstatite with addition of Na2O, decreasing the orthopyroxene content of peridotite. The orthopyroxene-out curve intersects an enriched mantle solidus at 3 GPa where near-solidus liquids have Na2O = 7±1.5 wt.%. Sodium partitioning between a metaluminous liquid and clinopyroxene follows the jadeite partitioning models calculated for the dry silicate system but sodium partitions into peralkaline carbonated liquids as both the pyroxene and the carbonate molecules. The peralkaline liquids generated are essentially carbonated silicate melts that are analogous to silica-bearing carbonatites and silicocarbonatites from a range of possible metasomatized mantle sources.


Wetland construction has been an effective means of mitigating wetland habitat losses due to agricultural and other activities. However, the type, variety, and age of the habitats created are often critical components in the success of the wetland when the aim is to enhance the bird community. Hilliardton Marsh was constructed as a series of cells between 1993 and 1997 in boreal eastern Ontario to provide waterfowl habitat. We determined habitat change and monitored breeding-season bird use before construction and one year after the last cell was constructed. Wetland construction resulted in dramatic changes to the vegetation and bird communities. The area was transformed into a variety of wetland habitats, but primarily marsh, one of the rarest wetland types in boreal Ontario. Survey stations with moderate habitat change exhibited the greatest change in bird species richness. Total species richness increased 55% from 56 to 87 species, with obligate wetland birds increasing from 3 to 26 species. Rare birds increased from 11 to 27 species, with most as obligate or facultative wetland birds, but also Peregrine Falcon ( Falco peregrinus ). Bird abundance, as measured by the number of stations where a species was observed, increased significantly for obligate wetland birds. There were no significant losses of species from any bird group, as adjacent upland habitat was preserved. This short-term study has shown that construction of new wetland habitat in boreal eastern Ontario, especially marsh, can significantly increase the numbers of breeding-season birds, including rare species. However, longterm monitoring is required to ensure sustained success of wetland construction projects for birds.


A novel cell irradiation system was developed for use with the HVEE Van de Graaff accelerator at the National Tsing Hua University. A 90°-scattering technique using an Au foil was designed, in which charged particles were directed from horizontal to vertical irradiation. Beam performance was tested with a silicon detector and a CR-39 nuclear track detector. The HeLa cells were irradiated with 2-MeV alpha particles and the formation of giant cells was observed. The result showed that this system provides a convenient way of generating a vertical particle beam and a cell-supporting chamber, thereby allowing a suitable cell growth condition during irradiation. Furthermore, establishment of such a system is more convenient and economical than the alternatives.


This two-part study investigated the effects of a multiphase teacher professional development package on student speech-generating augmentative and alternative communication device (SGD) use. In Part 1, teachers were taught (a) device operation and programming, (b) device integration and embedding, and (c) systematic communication instruction using time delay. The teacher professional learning intervention and the effect on teacher performance were discussed in detail. Part 2 of the study demonstrated the effect of teacher performance on student learning outcomes. This study demonstrated that there was no effect on student SGD use during teacher learning Phase 1 (device operation). However, all students showed substantial increases in SGD initiations during teacher learning Phase 2 (integration and embedding), and SGD initiations remained at high levels through teacher learning Phase 3 (systematic communication instruction). SGD initiations increased further for students with the most significant disabilities during teacher learning Phase 3. Overall, minimal effects were found for student SGD responses. This study has implications for service provision to students who use SGDs and/or other assistive technology (AT) in the classroom. It highlights the need to measure student outcomes when implementing professional learning for teachers or developing service provision models involving teachers in client classrooms. Student outcomes will determine the efficacy of such inservice and support and will assist in determining the types of professional learning practices that are likely to achieve desired student outcomes.


Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a relatively common neurodegenerative disease marked by muscle weakness and atrophy due to degeneration of motor neurons of the spinal cord and lower brain stem. The most common form of SMA is caused by homozygous disruption of the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene on chromosome 5q and results in insufficient levels of SMN protein in motor neurons. There is a broad spectrum of clinical severity, which inversely relates to the number of copies of the SMN2 gene. Although advances in the understanding of the disease biology have provided therapeutic targets, no effective disease modifying treatment is currently available. Promising therapeutic strategies include utilising the unique genomic structure of the SMN genes to increase SMN protein transcripts, neuroprotective agents, gene therapy and stem cell transplantation.

Key Concepts:

The most common form of SMA is secondary to homozygous disruption of the survival motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1) located on chromosome 5q13 and results in insufficient levels of survival motor neuron (SMN) protein in motor neurons.

SMA is classified into three common types based on age of onset and maximal motor milestones attained (Munsat and Davies, 1992): SMA type 1 has onset within the first 6 months and patients do not sit without support; SMA type 2 patients manifest weakness after 6 months of age and the maximum motor milestone is the ability to sit; SMA type 3 patients attain the ability to walk.

The clinical spectrum of SMA is broad, ranging from early infant death to normal adult life with minimal weakness.

The diagnosis of SMA is based on molecular genetic testing. Approximately 95% of individuals with SMA are homozygous for a deletion of SMN1 and 5% may reflect compound heterozygotes.

In humans there is an almost identical copy of the gene, SMN2, which predominantly encodes a truncated form of the SMN protein that is rapidly degraded. Functional ability inversely relates to SMN2 copy number.

Current management incorporates multidisciplinary care and focuses on preventing and addressing the complications of weakness and promoting quality of life.

Advances in the understanding of molecular pathogenesis of SMA have provided novel therapeutic targets, however translation has held limited success to date.

Keywords:

spinal muscular atrophy;
survival motor neuron;
anterior horn cell


We hypothesized that the Src family tyrosine kinases (STKs) are involved in the upregulation of arginase and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in response to inflammatory stimuli in pulmonary endothelial cells. Treatment of bovine pulmonary arterial endothelial cells (bPAEC) with lipopolysaccharide and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (L/T) resulted in increased urea and nitric oxide (NO) production, and this increase in urea and NO production was inhibited by the STK inhibitor PP1 (10 microM). The STK inhibitors PP2 (10 microM) and herbimycin A (10 microM) also prevented the L/T-induced expression of both arginase II and iNOS mRNA in bPAEC. Together, the data demonstrate a central role of STK in the upregulation of both arginase II and iNOS in bPAEC in response to L/T treatment. To identify the specific kinase(s) required for the induction of urea and NO production, we studied human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (hPMVEC) so that short interfering RNA (siRNA) techniques could be employed. We found that hPMVEC express Fyn, Yes, c-Src, Lyn, and Blk and that the protein expression of Fyn, Yes, c-Src, and Lyn could be inhibited with specific siRNA. The siRNA targeting Fyn prevented the cytokine-induced increase in urea and NO production, whereas siRNAs specifically targeting Yes, c-Src, and Lyn had no appreciable effect on cytokine-induced urea and NO production. These findings support our hypothesis that inflammatory stimuli lead to increased urea and NO production through a STK-mediated pathway. Furthermore, these results indicate that the STK Fyn plays a critical role in this process.


ABSTRACT The Nordic countries have long traditions in forest inventory and remote sensing (RS). In sample-based national forest inventories (NFIs), utilization of aerial photographs started during the 1960s, satellite images during the 1980s, laser scanning during the 2000s, and photogrammetric point clouds during the 2010s. In forest management inventories (FMI), utilization of aerial photos started during the 1940s and laser scanning during the 2000s. However, so far, RS has mostly been used for map production and research rather than for estimation of regional parameters or inference on their accuracy. In recent years, the RS technology has been developing very fast. At the same time, the needs for information are constantly increasing. New technologies have created possibilities for cost-efficient production of accurate, large area forest data sets, which also will change the way forest inventories are done in the future. In this study, we analyse the state-of-the-art both in the NFIs and FMIs in the Nordic countries. We identify the benefits and drawbacks of different RS materials and data acquisition approaches with different user perspectives. Based on the analysis, we identify the needs for further development and emerging research questions. We also discuss alternatives for ownership of the data and cost-sharing between different actors in the field.


Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant tumor of bone with a high propensity for lung metastasis. Despite significant advances in surgical techniques and chemotherapeutic regimens over the past few decades, there has been minimal improvement in OS patient survival. There is an urgent need to identify novel antitumor agents to treat human OS. Repurposing the clinically-used drugs represents a rapid and effective approach to the development of new anticancer agents. The anthelmintic drug niclosamide has recently been identified as a potential anticancer agent in human cancers. Here, we investigate if niclosamide can be developed as an anti-OS drug. We find that niclosamide can effectively inhibit OS cell proliferation and survival at low micromolar concentrations. Cell migration and wounding closure are significantly inhibited by niclosamide. Niclosamide induces cell apoptosis and inhibits cell cycle progression in OS cells. Analysis of niclosamide's effect on 11 cancer-related signal pathway reporters reveals that three of them, the E2F1, AP1, and c-Myc-responsive reporters, are significantly inhibited. To a lesser extent, the HIF1α, TCF/LEF, CREB, NFκB, Smad/TGFβ, and Rbpj/Notch pathway reporters are also inhibited, while the NFAT and Wnt/β-catenin reporters are not significantly affected by niclosamide treatment. We demonstrate that the expression of c-Fos, c-Jun. E2F1, and c-Myc in OS cells is effectively inhibited by niclosamide. Furthermore, niclosamide is shown to effectively inhibit tumor growth in a mouse xenograft tumor model of human osteosarcoma cells. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that niclosamide may exert its anticancer activity in OS cells by targeting multiple signaling pathways. Future investigations should be directed to exploring the antitumor activity in clinically relevant OS models and ultimately in clinical trials.


Background: Treacher Collins syndrome (TCS), the most common type of mandibulofacial dysostosis (MFD), is genetically homogeneous. Other types of MFD are less common and, of these, only the Bauru type of MFD has an autosomal dominant (AD) mode of inheritance established. Here we report clinical features of a kindred with a unique AD MFD with the exclusion of linkage to the TCS locus (TCOF1) on chromosome 5q31-q32. Methods: Six affected family members underwent a complete medical genetics physical examination and two affected subjects had skeletal survey. All available medical records were reviewed. Linkage analysis using the markers spanning the TCOF1 locus was performed. One typically affected family member had a high resolution karyotype. Results: Affected subjects had significant craniofacial abnormalities without any significant acral changes and thus had a phenotype consistent with a MFD variant. Distinctive features included hypoplasia of the zygomatic complex, micrognathia with malocclusion, auricular abnormalities with conductive hearing loss, and ptosis. Significantly negative two point lod scores were obtained for markers spanning the TCOF1 locus, excluding the possibility that the disease in our kindred is allelic with TCS. High resolution karyotype was normal. Conclusions: We report a kindred with a novel type of MFD that is not linked to the TCOF1 locus and is also clinically distinct from other types of AD MFD. Identification of additional families will facilitate identification of the gene causing this type of AD MFD and further characterisation of the clinical phenotype.


A new definition of affine invariant erosion of 3D surfaces is introduced. Instead of being based in terms of Euclidean distances, the volumes enclosed between the surface and its chords are used. The resulting erosion is insensitive to noise, and by construction, it is affine invariant. We prove some key properties about this erosion operation, and we propose a simple method to compute the erosion of implicit surfaces. We also discuss how the affine erosion can be used to define 3D affine invariant robust skeletons.


The purpose of this study was to understand how elementary school teacher candidates define morality and moral education, (ii) evaluate their pre-service education in terms of their preparation for the role of supporting moral development of their prospective students, and (iii) envision their role in students' moral development. Data were collected by using a survey questionnaire which required content analysis. The findings showed that teacher candidates (N=84) defined morality around universal values such as honesty, respectfulness and social rules. According to teacher candidates, raising a moral person was initially the responsibility of families, teachers' role was complementary. The negative effect of media and social surrounding were criticized by the participants. Teacher candidates had concerns related to how to address moral development in their professional lives and thought that Classroom Management and Development and Learning courses were important for addressing moral issues through cases


We present Continuously Adaptive Dynamic Voltage-Frequency Scaling in Linux systems running on Intel i7 and AMD Phenom II processors. By exploiting slack, inherent in memory-bound programs, our approach aims to improve power efficiency even when the processor does not sit idle. Our underlying methodology is based on a simple first-order processor performance model in which frequency scaling is expressed as a change (in cycles) of the main memory latency. Utilizing available performance monitoring hardware, we show that our model is powerful enough to i) predict with reasonable accuracy the effect of frequency scaling (in terms of performance loss), and ii) predict the energy consumed by the core under different V/f combinations. To validate our approach we perform high-accuracy, fine-grain, power measurements directly on the off-chip voltage regulators. We use our model to implement various DVFS policies as Linux "green" governors to continuously optimize for various powerefficiency metrics such as EDP (Energy-Delay Product) or EDP (Energy-Delay-Square Product), or achieve energy savings with a user-specified limit on performance loss. Our evaluation shows that, for SPEC2006 workloads, our governors achieve dynamically the same optimal EDP or EDP (within 2% on average) as an exhaustive search of all possible frequencies and supply voltages. Energy savings can reach up to 56% in memory-bound workloads with corresponding improvements of about 55% for EDP or EDP.


Nutritional quality of fish depends upon the feed supplied. Supplementary feeding is known to increase the carrying capacity of culture system and can enhance the fish production by many folds. Realizing the importance of formulated feeding the present work was designed to supplement freeze dried tubifex along with the normal groundnut oil cake diet, to evaluate the nutritional indices in juveniles of Catla catla fingerlings. Experimental diet – I comprised of groundnut cake combined with freeze dried tubifex. Experimental diet – II was commercially available freeze dried Tubifex. Control fishes were fed with normal groundnut cake.  Fishes initially weighing about 2.5 to 2.8 gms and length of about 6.3 to 6.4 cms were selected for the present study. The formulated feeding was given for a period of 30 days. A significant increase was observed in the body weight, length and the nutritional indices of the fishes fed on both experimental diets.


Stock price modeling and prediction is a challenging task due to its non-stationary and dynamic nature of data. Developing an accurate stock prediction method can help investors in making profitable decisions by reducing the investment risks. This paper proposes a deep learning-based method for significantly improving the stock prediction accuracy using deep learning-based methods. Two well-known methods were investigated, namely one dimensional Convolutional Neural Network (1D-CNN) and the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM). In addition, we also investigated the effect of dimensionality reduction using principal component analysis (PCA) on the prediction accuracy of both 1D-CNN and LSTM. Two separate experiments were performed for each method, one with PCA and one without PCA. The experimental results indicated that LSTM with PCA produced the best results with mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.032, 0.084, and 0.044 while a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.0643, 0.172, 0.079 on Apple Inc., Amerisource Bergen Corporation, and Cardinal Health datasets. The LSTM network with PCA took an average of 421.8s for training. Contrarily, 1D-CNN model with PCA performed better in terms of computational time as it took only 37s for training and attained MAE of 0.039 and RMSE of 0.0706 on Apple Inc. dataset. Similarly, 1D-CNN took 36.5s for training while achieving 0.099 MAR and 0.2021 RMSE on Amerisource Bergen Corporation dataset, while 37.5s for training that secured 0.067 MAE and 0.1037 RMSE on Cardinal Health dataset.


Author(s): Perks, Krista | Advisor(s): Gentner, Timothy | Abstract: Relating the collective activities of neural populations to external sensory stimuli or to motor output is essential to understanding how nervous systems support behavior. Equally important is examining these processes in the context of ethological signals, which are typically high-dimensional with a wide range of co-varying features at multiple timescales. The synaptic and network mechanisms for encoding these complex signals are largely unknown, due in part to limitations inherent in experimental design practices leveraging dimensionality reduction rather than embracing the full suite of stimulus complexity. Additional limitations arise because most studies to date examine spiking statistics in randomly-selected populations without consideration for the functional relevance of sub-network groupings. We do not know how spiking responses of individual neurons are pooled, functionally, by downstream neurons – a mechanism that could significantly alter population coding. Stimulus and behavior likely modulate the functional selection of sub-populations, which then likely exhibit different spiking statistics than the population at large. Using a combination of intracellular and extracellular electrophysiology techniques in the caudal mesopallium (CM) and the caudal nidopallium (NCM) of the common European Starling, I examine synaptic and spiking activity driven by previously-recorded conspecific vocalizations, maintaining the full ethologically-relevant complexity contained in each signal. Uniquely, I feature the synaptic response as an independent variable in the examination of population spiking activity. The main implication of the collective results presented in this study is that, rather than a model of hierarchical processing in which stimulus-specific information is restricted to parallel circuits within each region, sensory integration and processing are supported by a system in which information about even the most complex stimuli is likely massively redundant and shared among the population at large. This scaffolds a sensory processing model in which flexible network re-organization - on short timescales and in a stimulus-specific way - support the complexities of spiking output observed in sensory cortex in response to learning, adaptation, attention, and context to meet the demands of an ever-changing environment.


Who has not experienced the formation of a vortex or a whirlpool in a glass of milk when trying to dissolve cocoa in it by stirring the liquid with a spoon? In this paper, we analyse the mechanical aspects of the unsteady vortex formed in swirling water that was stirred with a spoon around a central axis in a cylindrical glass. We show that the formed unsteady vortex is of forced type and we compare the fluid dynamics of this unsteady vortex to that of the well-known steady free and forced vortices and with the dynamics of the unsteady free isolated vortex (also known as Oseen-Lamb's vortex). We show that the observation of the generation and decay of the unsteady vortex in a cylindrical glass of rotating water is a simple experiment that may constitute a very fruitful experience for understanding the kinematics, dynamics, and static aspects of the axisymmetric, rotational, or torsional flow of an homogeneous and incompressible fluid.


In this article the relation between contrast medium (CM) application and sequence parameters will be discussed with respect to clinical use of the contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA) in the peripheral vessel region. The adjustment of the sequence parameters, the CM application timing and the bolus geometry is necessary for an effective use of CE-MRA. Investigation protocols for several vascular regions differ mainly corresponding to varying fields of view and slab thickness. Restrictions of increasing the measurement time are expected in peripherally localized vessels if fast arteriovenous transit time occurs. The vessel contrast depends from (1) optimal CM bolus timing and (2) bolus geometry defined by the parameters of the intravenous bolus injection (flow rate, dose and NaCl flush volume). Our study results have shown that the bolus remains compact but also shorter if a higher flow rate is being applied at equal dose. The enlargement of the NaCl flush volume has evidently caused an increased intraarterial CM concentration and a slightly bolus lengthening. The exact timing regimen requires an automated mechanical CM injection pump. In most countries, a total dose of 0.3 mmol/kg Gd is allowed for application during one investigation. Therefore, obtaining an angiogram of the entire iliac and leg region this total dose must be separated. 0.1 mmol/kg for each of the three measurements can be recommended. Otherwise, using this lower CM dose results in less spatial resolution. At least a dosage of 0.2 mmol/kg Gd is necessary to achieve a higher spatial resolution. The calculation of CM dosage should be also related to the dedicated vessel region of interest than to the body weight only.


The world's central banks have been working for several years to promote awareness of the risks associated with the settlement of foreign exchange transactions. In September 2000, the Reserve Bank surveyed the major participants in the New Zealand foreign exchange market to focus attention on settlement practices and the potential risks. This article summarises the findings of that survey.


This paper starts with the assumption that local authorities, under the new public management, may use job sharing as part of an equal opportunities policy in order to attract and retain experienced and professional employees. Data collected from 32 councils in England and Scotland have shown that although most of the female employees would possibly prefer to work flexibly through job sharing, there was little or no established policies for the implementation of job sharing as a means of providing equal opportunities. With the consolidation of the new public management in local authorities in the late 1990s, the approach to the use of job sharing and flexible working in general has changed from emphasising equality to meeting business objectives. The promotion of job sharing is very limited and its implementation often restricted. Job sharing is undermined by a culture of full‐time work and determined by economic motives.


This paper reviews recent research on the effects of "orthographic neighbors" (i.e., words that can be created by changing one letter of the stimulus item, preserving letter positions, see Coltheart et al., 1977) on reading and laboratory word identification tasks. We begin this paper with a literature review on the two basic "neighborhood" effects (neighborhood size and neighborhood frequency). This review shows that the number of higher frequency neighbors is inhibitory in reading. We also examine the influence of orthographic structure in form - and repetition-priming effects, which again suggests that orthographic neighbors seem to play an inhibitory role in the selection process. Finally, we discuss the empirical evidence in the context of current models of visual word recognition and reading.


BACKGROUND
School-based meal programs may promote healthy dietary intake among youth. However, limited data exist regarding the impact of income-targeted school meal programs across countries, particularly among food insecure youth.

OBJECTIVES
To examine self-reported awareness of and participation in free school meal programs, and associations with dietary intake among youth from six countries with differing national school meal policies.

METHODS
Data were collected through the 2019 International Food Policy Study (IFPS) Youth Survey, a cross-sectional survey of 10,565 youth aged 10-17 y from Australia, Canada, Chile, Mexico, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States (US). Regression models examined: 1) country differences in awareness of and participation in breakfast and lunch programs; and 2) associations between lunch program participation and intake of fruit and vegetables, and 'less healthy' foods during the previous school lunch day.

RESULTS
Awareness of and participation in free breakfast and lunch programs varied across countries. Approximately half of US and Chilean students participated in school lunch programs-the countries with the most comprehensive national policies-compared to one fifth of students in the UK, and approximately 5% in Australia, Canada, and Mexico (P < 0.001 for all contrasts). In the US and Chile, more than two thirds of youth with the highest level of food insecurity participated in lunch programs, compared to 45% in the UK, 27% in Canada, and 20% or less in Australia and Mexico. In all countries, youth reporting school lunch program participation were more likely to report fruit and vegetable intake during their previous school lunch (P < 0.001), and higher intake of 'less healthy' food in all countries except the US and Chile.

CONCLUSIONS
More comprehensive national policies were associated with greater participation in school meals programs, particularly among youth at greatest risk of food insecurity, as well as healthier dietary intake from school lunch.


ABSTRACT The Jal-Az-Zor escarpment, some 80 km long and up to 145 m high, is a striking feature northwest of Kuwait Bay. Several alluvial fans are developed at the foot of the escarpment, and they terminate in playa and sabkha sediments towards Kadhmah Bay. The Quaternary sediments of the alluvial fans are divided into three facies: proximal, midfan, and distal fan facies, and they vary from conglomerates to sandstones to mudrocks. The Jal-Az-Zor alluvial fan sediments coarsen up in the proximal part, but fine upward in the distal region. Poorly sorted but highly imbricated conglomerates and pebbly sandstones with little stratification characterize the proximal region. Sediments of the midfan area show crossbedding and parallel lamination. Distal fan sediments are typically planar-laminated sa ds interbedded with lacustrine mud of playa origin. The alluvial fans have resulted from stream flooding and are composed of stacked depositional units.


BACKGROUND
Hypothyroidism is a common disorder, easily treated with thyroxine therapy. Thyroid stimulating hormone level assay can detect under- or overtreatment.

AIM
A study was carried out in one general practice to discover the number of people on thyroxine therapy, their care, and whether abnormal thyroid stimulating hormone level values resulted in alterations to their thyroxine dose.

METHOD
The study was undertaken in a north Suffolk general practice of 7640 patients. A computer search identified patients receiving repeat prescriptions for thyroxine therapy and their notes were studied. A thyroid stimulating hormone level value in the range of 0.3-3.8 mU l-1 was considered to indicate an appropriate thyroxine dose.

RESULTS
Thyroxine was being taken by 162 patients (2%), of whom 146 were women. Thyroid stimulating hormone level had been checked within the last year for 127 patients (78%). At their last thyroid stimulating hormone level test, 48 patients (30%) had a value above the normal range, only 21 of whom (44%) had their thyroxine dose increased as a result. The thyroid stimulating hormone level was below 0.3 mU l-1 at the last check in 38 patients (23%), only four of whom (11%) had their thyroxine dose reduced as a result.

CONCLUSION
There is often failure to adjust thyroxine dose despite abnormal thyroid stimulating hormone levels. However, more research is needed to determine the ideal thyroid stimulating hormone levels which should be aimed for in these patients, and whether tight control of thyroxine dosage is able to reduce morbidity and mortality among patients with hypothyroidism.


The E23K variant of the Kir6·2 gene has been shown to be associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Caucasian subjects. Because offspring of type 2 diabetic patients have a genetically increased risk of developing diabetes, we sought to identify the E23K variant of the Kir6·2 gene in offspring of Caribbean patients with type 2 diabetes and assess the contribution of this variant to impaired glucose tolerance in these subjects. Forty-six offspring of patients with type 2 diabetes and 39 apparently healthy subjects whose immediate parents were not diabetic ('control') were studied after an overnight fast. Anthropometric indices were measured and blood samples were collected. Fasting and 2 h plasma glucose, insulin and lipids were subsequently determined. Insulin resistance was calculated using the homeostatic model assessment technique. The offspring and control subjects had similar frequencies of the E23K polymorphism (52·6 vs 45·5%, P>0·05) and the frequency of the E23K variant did not differ significantly between gender and ethnic distributions, irrespectively of a family history of diabetes (P>0·05). There were no significant differences in biochemical risk factors for developing diabetes in offspring carriers of the E23K variant compared with offspring non-carriers of the mutation. Offspring with the E23K mutation had even significantly higher 2 h insulin concentrations when compared with control subjects. It is concluded that the presence of the Kir6·2 E23K genotype in Caribbean subjects with an immediate positive family history of diabetes does not confer significantly higher levels of biochemical risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes. Journal of Endocrinology (2005) 185, 439–444


Consumer physical activity tracking devices (PATs) have gained popularity to support individuals to be more active and less sedentary throughout the day. Wearable PATs provide real-time feedback of various fitness-related metrics such as tracking steps, sedentary time, and distance walked. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence and correlates of PAT ownership and use among a population-based sample of adults. A representative sample of adults ≥18 years (N = 1,215) from Alberta, Canada were recruited through random-digit dialing and responded to a questionnaire via computer-assisted telephone interviewing methods in summer 2016. Questionnaires assessed demographic and health behaviour variables, and items were designed to assess PAT ownership and usage. Logistic regression analysis (odds ratios) was used to assess correlates of PAT ownership and use. On average, participants (N = 1,215) were 53.9 (SD 16.7) years and 50.1% were female. Of the sample, 19.6% (n = 238) indicated they currently own and use a PAT. Participants who owned a PAT wore their device on average 23.2 days within the past month. Currently owning a PAT was significantly associated with being female (OR = 1.41, CI: 1.10 to 1.82), being <60 years of age (OR = 1.86, CI: 1.37 to 2.53), having at least some post secondary education (OR = 1.88, CI: 1.36 to 2.60), having a BMI ≥25 (OR = 1.52, CI: 1.16 to 1.99), and meeting physical activity guidelines (OR = 1.45, CI: 1.12 to 1.88). Similar correlates emerged for PAT use. Correlates significantly associated with PAT use and ownership included being female, being less than 60 years of age, having a post-secondary education, meeting physical activity guidelines, and being overweight/obese. This is the first study to examine characteristics of PAT ownership and use among Canadian adults.


The paper will initially review the idea of public-private partnerships (PPPs) as it has evolved over the past few decades first in OECD countries, and then in developing countries. Questions will include: How is PPP defined (it means different things to different people and this is an asset)? How is PPP part of the New Public Management (NPM) agenda (fragmentation, competition, incentivization), and how is it part of the post-New Public Management (NPM) agenda (governance, networking, collaboration)? What are the regulatory challenges? What are the risks of PPPs, including corruption risks and how are they best managed? What has been the effectiveness of PPP in terms of NPM (outputs, efficiency) and post-NPM (innovation practices to solve complex problems, new delivery processes that cut through bottlenecks) metrics? What have been the challenges in transferring the concept from OECD to developing countries? Building on this foundation, a case study will be presented of recent developments in the Power sector in Bangladesh to illustrate these issues in a specific context.


Lean Construction has become a popular concept to improve performance and reduce costs in construction projects. Assessment tools and implementation strategies that focus on lean practices such as the Last Planner System, the use of Kanbans, the routine of Kaizens and, recently, the integration with information technology are also common. However, barriers to the wide adoption of lean principles remain and implementation challenges continue to intrigue scholars. Previous studies suggest that barriers to the successful implementation can be either political, economical, social and/or technical, with the focus on lack of knowledge about lean concepts, resistance to the required organisational culture change, and lack of support from top management. Few studies present the lean implementation process from the practitioners' perspective. Using the narrative enquiry methodology, the authors aim to describe how a construction company from Brazil matured from the implementation of lean operational tools to achieve excellence in the lean culture and mindset. Key themes that emerge from this study for a successful lean construction journey are; effort to stabilise the environment, knowledge creation and management, transparency in the process to enable simplicity and shared understanding, and building trust for further growth.


: Oxidation of glutamate by the brain mitrochondrial fraction was studied in the in vitro experiments in the presence of 2,4-DNP in concentrations of 5.10(-6) and 1.10(-3) M. 5.10(-6) M DNP is shown to stimulate ammonia and aspartate formation when glutamate in a concentration of 10 mM was used. Under these conditions an increase in O2 consumption occurred. When 1.10(-3) DNP was used, O2 consumption was inhbited. In this case ammonia formation was more intensive and simultaneously aspartate production was decreased. An increase in the glutamate concentration up to 20 mM diminished 2,4-DNP effects on ammonia and aspartate production.


Copper(II), cobalt(II) and nickel(II) bis(N-methyl-N-phenyl dithiocarbamate) complexes having the general formula [M{S2CN(MePh)}2] (where M = Cu, Co and Ni) have been prepared and characterized by spectral and thermal analysis. The IR spectra suggest that coordination of dithiocarbamate (DTC) occurred through the two sulfur atoms in a symmetrical bidentate fashion. The electronic spectra, conductance measurement and magnetic moment analysis support the proposed geometry for the electronically dilute complexes. The results of the thermal analysis showed that after dehydration, a one-step decomposition pattern leading to the formation of respective metal sulfide as the end-product occurred. The results are consistent with the proposed composition of the complexes. The in vitro antibacterial activity of the complexes was investigated against strains of gram-negative Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoea and Pseudomonas aureginosa, and gram-positive Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Protues mirabilis. The antibacterial activity of the complexes compared favorably with that of streptomycin and augmentine against S. aureus and B. cereus. The cobalt complex had the best antibacterial activity against the test compounds with inhibitory zone range of 11–14.5 mm. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT


Study of the capacity of group B streptococci for causing the development of infection in mice has revealed the virulence of the cultures for mice to be determined by the serovar of the streptococcus, the infective dose, and the amount of type-specific polysaccharide. Under the conditions of mixed viral-bacterial infection, influenza A virus was shown to influence the development of bacterial infection in the animals in two ways: to increase the virulence of an avirulent strain and to decrease the pathogenicity of a virulent one in streptococcal monoinfections. Simultaneously with viral infection, the stimulation of the multiplication of an avirulent strain in the lungs of mice was observed, while in the control groups of the animals the elimination of bacteria from the lungs was registered. No additional accumulation of the infective virus in the lungs of mice in the presence of streptococci was found.


Planetary exploration requires a balance between preemptive planning and financial feasibility. The risk of mid-mission equipment failure, power shortages, or supply depletion incentivizes precautionary measures, but the financial strain of sending unnecessary mass into space limits this practice. To balance the two, our team explored the advantages of biological solutions, namely the self-sustaining abilities of low-mass organisms, to make planetary exploration more self-sufficient and economical. Prioritizing repair over replacement, we are developing self-healing materials embedded with Bacillus subtilis. For longer-lasting energy, we are designing a "biobactery" using linearly oriented Escherichia coli to generate power. For renewable materials, we are engineering bacteria to synthesize and degrade rubber. Individually, these projects offer sustainable alternatives for repair, power, and materials. But when combined, these consolidated insights can provide us with the power to get to Mars and resources to sustain us while we're there.


Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are the most potent toxins known and the causative agents of the rare but potentially life-threatening disease botulism. The elaborate mode of action of BoNTs at the molecular level, their exquisite specificity for peripheral motor neurons, and their ability to effectively inhibit neurotransmitter release led to the development of BoNTs into highly valued pharmaceutical products. Both diagnostics of botulism and potency testing of pharmaceutical BoNT preparations still employ the mouse bioassay as "gold standard assay". This animal experiment can pose a heavy burden on the animal, including a fatal outcome of testing. Additionally, several analytical disadvantages have been described. Consequently, the development of animal replacement methods is a long pursued goal which has been focused mainly on replacement methods for pharmaceutical potency testing so far. However, fundamentally different requirements and challenges apply for diagnostics of botulism and potency testing of BoNT pharmaceuticals, which necessitates the development of different assays tailored for each purpose. Here we review the underlying causes for this intricacy which are rooted in both the biological characteristics of the BoNTs as well as assay specific requirements. We review different functional assays that have been developed to replace the mouse bioassay. Despite significant progress in recent years, further substantial work is needed to pave the way for a fully validated replacement for the mouse bioassay for botulism diagnostics.


Objective. To assess the relationship between inflammatory cell infiltration and tumor type, stage and grade, the presence of multifocality and survival in tumors and in tumor-free normal parenchyma. Material and methods. A total of 99 patients who underwent radical nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) between 1995 and 2001 and were subsequently followed up were included in the study. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from the patients were reassessed by a pathologist and inflammation in both tumor and normal renal tissue was scored using a five-point scale. We evaluated the relationship between these scores and tumor type, stage, grade, the presence of multifocality and survival. Results. There were positive correlations between tumor grade and both the intratumoral inflammation score (IIS) and the extratumoral inflammation score (EIS) (p=0.001 and 0.01, respectively). There were no relations between pathological stage and either the IIS or EIS. We found higher multifocality rates in patients who died because of metastasis than those who survived (p=0.002). The EIS was 1.76±1.54 in the non-multifocality group and 2.64±1.15 in the multifocality group and this difference was statistically significant (p=0.03). There was no statistically significant relationship between the IIS and multifocality. Oncocytomas and chromophobe carcinomas did not show inflammatory infiltrates in either tumors or normal renal tissue. Conclusions. Higher EIS and IIS are associated with increasing tumor grade and a higher EIS is associated with multifocality in RCC. We propose to evaluate tumor tissue and normal renal parenchyma for the presence of inflammatory infiltration in RCC.


This paper presents a named entity classification system that utilises both orthographic and contextual information. The random subspace method was employed to generate and refine attribute models. Supervised and unsupervised learning techniques used in the recombination of models to produce the final results.


INTRODUCTION AND AIM
In 2008 the International autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) Group proposed the simplified diagnostic criteria for this disease. The original cohort study was performed in 11 international centers, but validation studies are scarce in Latin-America. The aim of this study is validate these criteria in Hispanic patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS
A retrospective cohort of patients undergoing percutaneous liver biopsy and follow-up of at least 12 months was recruited from a Chilean University hospital. Patients with previous immunosuppressive therapy and liver transplant recipients were excluded. The diagnostic accuracy was analyzed using as gold standard the clinical course during long-term follow-up. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) and area under the ROC curve (AUROC) were calculated.

RESULTS
Four hundred eighty one patients were evaluated, 294 were included. 218 (74.15%) were female, mean age 48.5 (± 12.3) years, mean follow-up 34 (± 18) months. 66 patients had AIH or overlap syndrome (22.45%), 96 (32.65%) non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, 40 (13.61%) primary biliary cholangitis, 31 (10.54%) hepatitis C, 8 (2.72%) hepatitis B, 53 (18.02%) other etiologies. The AUROC for AIH simplified criteria was 0.976. Using a cutoff ≥ 6 and ≥ 7 points, the sensitivity was 86.4% and 54.6%; specificity, 98.7% and 99.6%; PPV, 95% and 97.3%; and NPV, 96.2% and 88.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION
Simplified criteria for the diagnosis of AIH have a high accuracy in our Chilean-Hispanic cohort. The female gender is strongly associated to AIH and could help in difficult cases. Further studies with a prospective design are necessary to confirm these observations.


As today's digital cameras contain millions of image sensors, it is highly probable that the image sensors will contain a few defective pixels due to errors in the fabrication process. While these bad pixels would normally be mapped out in the manufacturing process, more defective pixels, known as hot pixels, could appear over time with camera usage. Since some hot pixels can still function at normal settings, they need not be permanently mapped out because they will only appear on a long exposure and/or at high ISO settings. In this paper, we apply an adaptive order-statistics multi-shell filter within CFA demosaicking to filter out only bad pixels whilst preserving the rest of the image. The CFA image containing bad pixels is first demosaicked to produce a full colour image. The adaptive filter is then only applied to the actual sensor pixels within the colour image for bad pixel correction. Demosaicking is then re-applied at those bad pixel locations to produce the final full colour image free of defective pixels. It has been shown that our proposed method outperforms a separate process of CFA demosaicking followed by bad pixel removal.


Vertebral compression is a serious complication of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The prevalence and pattern of vertebral fractures, as well as their relationship to BMD and other clinical indices, have not been systematically studied. We evaluated spine health in 186 newly diagnosed children (median age, 5.3 yr; 108 boys) with ALL (precursor B cell: N = 167; T cell: N = 19) who were enrolled in a national bone health research program. Patients were assessed within 30 days of diagnosis by lateral thoraco‐lumbar spine radiograph, bone age (also used for metacarpal morphometry), and BMD. Vertebral morphometry was carried out by the Genant semiquantitative method. Twenty‐nine patients (16%) had a total of 75 grade 1 or higher prevalent vertebral compression fractures (53 thoracic, 71%; 22 lumbar). Grade 1 fractures as the worst grade were present in 14 children (48%), 9 patients (31%) had grade 2 fractures, and 6 children (21%) had grade 3 fractures. The distribution of spine fracture was bimodal, with most occurring in the midthoracic and thoraco‐lumbar regions. Children with grade 1 or higher vertebral compression had reduced lumbar spine (LS) areal BMD Z‐scores compared with those without (mean ± SD, −2.1 ± 1.5 versus −1.1 ± 1.2; p < 0.001). LS BMD Z‐score, second metacarpal percent cortical area Z‐score, and back pain were associated with increased odds for fracture. For every 1 SD reduction in LS BMD Z‐score, the odds for fracture increased by 80% (95% CI: 10–193%); the presence of back pain had an OR of 4.7 (95% CI: 1.5–14.5). These results show that vertebral compression is an under‐recognized complication of newly diagnosed ALL. Whether the fractures will resolve through bone growth during or after leukemia chemotherapy remains to be determined.


Abstract The morphology and infraciliature of a new hypotrichous ciliate, Euplotidium smalli n. sp., isolated from eutrophic coastal water in Korea, were observed in living cells and investigated using the protargol impregnation technique. This new ciliate bears 13–14 frontoventral cirri, 7 transverse cirri, and 5–6 dorsal kineties. Neither left marginal cirrus nor caudal cirrus is present. The new species differs from the related species, Euplotidium agitatum Noland, 1937 in the different number of frontoventral and transverse cirri and different body shape. With the exception of Euplotidium agitatum, the known species of the genus Euplotidium Noland, 1937 with the presence of left marginal cirrus are assigned to a new genus, Paraeuplotidium n. g. Diagnosis of Paraeuplotidium is: Gastrocirrhidae with funnel-shaped buccal cavity; with frontoventral and transverse cirri; left marginal cirrus present. Paraeuplotidium itoi (Ito, 1958) n. comb. is designated here the type species. Four additional species are included: Paraeuplotidium psammophilus (Vacelet, 1961) n. comb., Paraeuplotidium arenarium (Magagnini & Nobili, 1964) n. comb., Paraeuplotidium helgae (Hartwig, 1980) n. comb., and Paraeuplotidium prosaltans (Tuffrau, 1985) n. comb. An improved generic diagnosis of Euplotidium is suggested based on morphology and infraciliature characters: marine hypotrichs with a funnel-shaped buccal cavity; with frontoventral and transverse cirri; neither left marginal cirrus nor caudal cirri present.