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CONTEXT: With global amphibian biodiversity rapidly declining, improving reproductive technology outcomes has become essential. Captive breeding programs have struggled because amphibian breeding physiology often requires specific environmental cues that reproductive technologies can circumvent. AIMS: This study tests the efficiency of hormonal induction by evaluating sperm quality in the endangered Litoria verreauxii alpina . METHODS: We assessed the effects of exogenous hormones - gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a, Lucrin), and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG, Chorulon) - on sperm quality. KEY RESULTS: Hormone induction with hCG showed high efficacy while GnRH-a yielded a low response in producing sperm. Sperm quantity was affected by time post injection, with the greatest quantity at 1h post injection. Sperm quality was also affected by time, where the sperm head size decreased by 11% at 7h post injection. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results from this study, we recommend that that sperm be collected soon after induction, and not more than 4h post induction in L. v. alpina . More work needs to be completed before recommending an optimal hormone induction method and dose, but 120IU of hCG per male was successful for inducing spermiation. IMPLICATIONS: This study represents a useful starting point for developing assisted reproductive techniques for non-model organisms.

Recently, a mix of traditional and modern approaches have been proposed to detect brain abnormalities using bio-signal/bio-image-assisted methods. In hospitals, most of the initial/scheduled assessments consider the bio-signal-based appraisal, due to its non-invasive nature and low cost. Further, brain bio-signal scans can be recorded using a single/multi-channel electrode setup, which is further evaluated by an experienced doctor, as well as computer software, to identify the nature and severity of abnormality. In this paper, we describe the development of a system for computer supported detection (CSD) of schizophrenia using the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal collected with a 19-channel electrode array. Schizophrenia is a mental illness that interferes with the way an individual thinks and behaves. It is characterised by psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions, negative symptoms such as decreased motivation or a lack of interest in daily activities and cognitive symptoms such challenges in processing information to make informed decisions or staying focused. This research has utilized 1142 EEGs (516 normal and 626 schizophrenia) with a frame length of 25 s (6250 samples) for investigation. The work initially converts the EEG signals to images using a spectrogram. Local configuration pattern features were extracted from the images thereafter, and 10-fold validation technique was used wherein Student's t-test and z-score standardization were computed per fold. The highest accuracy of 97.20% was achieved with the K-nearest neighbour (KNN) classifier. The results obtained confirm that the KNN classifier is helpful in the rapid detection of schizophrenia. This work is one of the first studies to extract local configuration pattern features from spectrogram images, yielding a high accuracy of 97.20%, with reduced computational complexity.

Recently, a mix of traditional and modern approaches have been proposed to detect brain abnormalities using bio-signal/bio-image-assisted methods. In hospitals, most of the initial/scheduled assessments consider the bio-signal-based appraisal, due to its non-invasive nature and low cost. Further, brain bio-signal scans can be recorded using a single/multi-channel electrode setup, which is further evaluated by an experienced doctor, as well as computer software, to identify the nature and severity of abnormality. In this paper, we describe the development of a system for computer supported detection (CSD) of schizophrenia using the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal collected with a 19-channel electrode array. Schizophrenia is a mental illness that interferes with the way an individual thinks and behaves. It is characterised by psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions, negative symptoms such as decreased motivation or a lack of interest in daily activities and cognitive symptoms such challenges in processing information to make informed decisions or staying focused. This research has utilized 1142 EEGs (516 normal and 626 schizophrenia) with a frame length of 25 s (6250 samples) for investigation. The work initially converts the EEG signals to images using a spectrogram. Local configuration pattern features were extracted from the images thereafter, and 10-fold validation technique was used wherein Student's t-test and z-score standardization were computed per fold. The highest accuracy of 97.20% was achieved with the K-nearest neighbour (KNN) classifier. The results obtained confirm that the KNN classifier is helpful in the rapid detection of schizophrenia. This work is one of the first studies to extract local configuration pattern features from spectrogram images, yielding a high accuracy of 97.20%, with reduced computational complexity.

Recently, a mix of traditional and modern approaches have been proposed to detect brain abnormalities using bio-signal/bio-image-assisted methods. In hospitals, most of the initial/scheduled assessments consider the bio-signal-based appraisal, due to its non-invasive nature and low cost. Further, brain bio-signal scans can be recorded using a single/multi-channel electrode setup, which is further evaluated by an experienced doctor, as well as computer software, to identify the nature and severity of abnormality. In this paper, we describe the development of a system for computer supported detection (CSD) of schizophrenia using the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal collected with a 19-channel electrode array. Schizophrenia is a mental illness that interferes with the way an individual thinks and behaves. It is characterised by psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions, negative symptoms such as decreased motivation or a lack of interest in daily activities and cognitive symptoms such challenges in processing information to make informed decisions or staying focused. This research has utilized 1142 EEGs (516 normal and 626 schizophrenia) with a frame length of 25 s (6250 samples) for investigation. The work initially converts the EEG signals to images using a spectrogram. Local configuration pattern features were extracted from the images thereafter, and 10-fold validation technique was used wherein Student's t-test and z-score standardization were computed per fold. The highest accuracy of 97.20% was achieved with the K-nearest neighbour (KNN) classifier. The results obtained confirm that the KNN classifier is helpful in the rapid detection of schizophrenia. This work is one of the first studies to extract local configuration pattern features from spectrogram images, yielding a high accuracy of 97.20%, with reduced computational complexity.

BACKGROUND: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) generate herd protection by reducing nasopharyngeal (NP) carriage. Two PCVs, PCV10 and PCV13, have been in use for over a decade, yet there are few data comparing their impact on carriage. Here we report their effect on carriage in a 2+1 schedule, compared with each other and with unvaccinated controls. METHODS: Data from four groups within a parallel, open-label randomised controlled trial in Ho Chi Minh City contribute to this article. Three groups were randomised to receive a 2+1 schedule of PCV10 (n = 250), a 2+1 schedule of PCV13 (n = 251), or two doses of PCV10 at 18 and 24 months (controls, n = 197). An additional group (n = 199) was recruited at 18 months to serve as controls from 18 to 24 months. NP swabs collected at 2, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months were analysed (blinded) for pneumococcal carriage. This study aimed to determine if PCV10 and PCV13 have a differential effect on pneumococcal carriage, a secondary outcome of the trial. We also describe the serotype distribution among unvaccinated participants. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01953510. FINDINGS: Compared with unvaccinated controls, a 2+1 schedule of PCV10 reduced PCV10-type carriage by 45-62% from pre-booster through to 24 months of age, and a 2+1 schedule of PCV13 reduced PCV13-type carriage by 36-49% at 12 and 18 months of age. Compared directly with each other, there were few differences between the vaccines in their impact on carriage. Vaccine serotypes accounted for the majority of carriage in unvaccinated participants. INTERPRETATION: Both PCV10 and PCV13 reduce the carriage of pneumococcal vaccine serotypes. The introduction of either vaccine would have the potential to generate significant herd protection in this population. FUNDING: National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Background: Trials of fluoxetine for recovery after stroke report conflicting results. The Assessment oF FluoxetINe In sTroke recoverY (AFFINITY) trial aimed to show if daily oral fluoxetine for 6 months after stroke improves functional outcome in an ethnically diverse population. Methods: AFFINITY was a randomised, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial done in 43 hospital stroke units in Australia (n=29), New Zealand (four), and Vietnam (ten). Eligible patients were adults (aged ≥18 years) with a clinical diagnosis of acute stroke in the previous 2–15 days, brain imaging consistent with ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke, and a persisting neurological deficit that produced a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 1 or more. Patients were randomly assigned 1:1 via a web-based system using a minimisation algorithm to once daily, oral fluoxetine 20 mg capsules or matching placebo for 6 months. Patients, carers, investigators, and outcome assessors were masked to the treatment allocation. The primary outcome was functional status, measured by the mRS, at 6 months. The primary analysis was an ordinal logistic regression of the mRS at 6 months, adjusted for minimisation variables. Primary and safety analyses were done according to the patient's treatment allocation. The trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12611000774921. Findings: Between Jan 11, 2013, and June 30, 2019, 1280 patients were recruited in Australia (n=532), New Zealand (n=42), and Vietnam (n=706), of whom 642 were randomly assigned to fluoxetine and 638 were randomly assigned to placebo. Mean duration of trial treatment was 167 days (SD 48·1). At 6 months, mRS data were available in 624 (97%) patients in the fluoxetine group and 632 (99%) in the placebo group. The distribution of mRS categories was similar in the fluoxetine and placebo groups (adjusted common odds ratio 0·94, 95% CI 0·76–1·15; p=0·53). Compared with patients in the placebo group, p

Recently, numerous comprehensive studies have been concentrating on the intricate kinematics of the wrist joint functionality captured with dart thrower's movement. It is envisaged that the wrist capability in performing daily activities can be more accurately characterized or encapsulated in the dart thrower's movement. This study examines the characteristic function of wrist movements during dart-throwing motion using only gyroscopic data measured from inertial sensors. A multi-dimensional form of dart throwing trajectory is described using quaternion representation associated with distance metric to quantitatively validate the functional wrist performance between two cohorts; healthy controls and patients. Eight normal subjects and eight patients engaged in a series of clinical trials conducted after undergoing post-surgical reconstructive procedures of the wrist joint. The discriminative results in terms of silhouette clustering evaluation show that the use of distance metric values based quaternion trajectory is well-matched consistently with subjective expert assessments. Our proposed approach captures the relative motions underpinning the wrist joint instead of relying on the traditional measure based on the range of motion measure. Therefore, this paper proposes a reliable approach to dynamically capture the wrist functionality during dart thrower's movement; a movement envisaged to describe the ability to engage in daily life activities. These quantitative outcomes in terms of measurement consistency will provide insightful information in understanding the significant changes in wrist joint signatures associated with various scenarios.

The dart-throwing movement is engaged to capture wrist movements involved in numerous daily activities. This paper focuses on robust implementation in a wearable platform-based inertial sensors enhance opportunities for exploring day-to-day changes of wrist joint when performing dart-throwing motion. The kinematic characterization of the underlying movement is described in terms of time-series quaternions measured from gyroscope data. The distance metrics between these representations are used to compare quantitatively wrist kinematic performance against clinical observations. A clinical trial was conducted engaging five normal subjects and 10 patients undergoing a series of post-surgical rehabilitation programs. The approach classifies effectively the patients from normal subjects and alleviates the need for range of motion measurements of the wrist joint implying the quaternion trajectory associated with classical dynamic time warping as a useful kinematic description for dart thrower's movement in assessing and characterizing the wrist performance. Clustering and classification results confirm that this proposed method is well-correlated with clinical assessments based on high positive correlation coefficients. The primary objective of this paper is to enhance the uptake and promote the uses of wearable sensors in longer term monitoring scenarios particularly relevant to non-clinical environments.

© 2018 Australian Statistical Publishing Association Inc. Published by John Wiley & Sons Australia Pty Ltd. We demonstrate the use of our R package, gammSlice, for Bayesian fitting and inference in generalised additive mixed model analysis. This class of models includes generalised linear mixed models and generalised additive models as special cases. Accurate Bayesian inference is achievable via sufficiently large Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) samples. Slice sampling is a key component of the MCMC scheme. Comparisons with existing generalised additive mixed model software shows that gammSlice offers improved inferential accuracy, albeit at the cost of longer computational time.

© 2018 Australian Statistical Publishing Association Inc. Published by John Wiley & Sons Australia Pty Ltd. We demonstrate the use of our R package, gammSlice, for Bayesian fitting and inference in generalised additive mixed model analysis. This class of models includes generalised linear mixed models and generalised additive models as special cases. Accurate Bayesian inference is achievable via sufficiently large Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) samples. Slice sampling is a key component of the MCMC scheme. Comparisons with existing generalised additive mixed model software shows that gammSlice offers improved inferential accuracy, albeit at the cost of longer computational time.

TH Nguyen Pham,1 Nigel A Lengkeek,2 Ivan Greguric,2 Byung J Kim,1 Paul A Pellegrini,2 Stephanie A Bickley,3 Marcel R Tanudji,3 Stephen K Jones,3 Brian S Hawkett,1 Binh TT Pham1 1Key Centre for Polymers and Colloids, School of Chemistry, University of Sydney, 2Radioisotopes and Radiotracers, NSTLI, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Sydney, 3Sirtex Medical Limited, North Sydney, NSW, Australia Abstract: Physiologically stable multimodality imaging probes for positron emission tomography/single-photon emission computed tomography (PET/SPECT)-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were synthesized using the superparamagnetic maghemite iron oxide (γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticles (SPIONs). The SPIONs were sterically stabilized with a finely tuned mixture of diblock copolymers with either methoxypolyethylene glycol (MPEG) or primary amine NH2 end groups. The radioisotope for PET or SPECT imaging was incorporated with the SPIONs at high temperature. 57Co2+ ions with a long half-life of 270.9 days were used as a model for the radiotracer to study the kinetics of radiolabeling, characterization, and the stability of the radiolabeled SPIONs. Radioactive 67Ga3+ and Cu2+-labeled SPIONs were also produced successfully using the optimized conditions from the 57Co2+-labeling process. No free radioisotopes were detected in the aqueous phase for the radiolabeled SPIONs 1 week after dispersion in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). All labeled SPIONs were not only well dispersed and stable under physiological conditions but also noncytotoxic in vitro. The ability to design and produce physiologically stable radiolabeled magnetic nanoparticles with a finely controlled number of functionalizable end groups on the SPIONs enables the generation of a desirable and biologically compatible multimodality PET/SPECT-MRI agent on a single T2 contrast MRI probe. Keywords: magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomo

TH Nguyen Pham,1 Nigel A Lengkeek,2 Ivan Greguric,2 Byung J Kim,1 Paul A Pellegrini,2 Stephanie A Bickley,3 Marcel R Tanudji,3 Stephen K Jones,3 Brian S Hawkett,1 Binh TT Pham1 1Key Centre for Polymers and Colloids, School of Chemistry, University of Sydney, 2Radioisotopes and Radiotracers, NSTLI, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Sydney, 3Sirtex Medical Limited, North Sydney, NSW, Australia Abstract: Physiologically stable multimodality imaging probes for positron emission tomography/single-photon emission computed tomography (PET/SPECT)-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were synthesized using the superparamagnetic maghemite iron oxide (γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticles (SPIONs). The SPIONs were sterically stabilized with a finely tuned mixture of diblock copolymers with either methoxypolyethylene glycol (MPEG) or primary amine NH2 end groups. The radioisotope for PET or SPECT imaging was incorporated with the SPIONs at high temperature. 57Co2+ ions with a long half-life of 270.9 days were used as a model for the radiotracer to study the kinetics of radiolabeling, characterization, and the stability of the radiolabeled SPIONs. Radioactive 67Ga3+ and Cu2+-labeled SPIONs were also produced successfully using the optimized conditions from the 57Co2+-labeling process. No free radioisotopes were detected in the aqueous phase for the radiolabeled SPIONs 1 week after dispersion in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). All labeled SPIONs were not only well dispersed and stable under physiological conditions but also noncytotoxic in vitro. The ability to design and produce physiologically stable radiolabeled magnetic nanoparticles with a finely controlled number of functionalizable end groups on the SPIONs enables the generation of a desirable and biologically compatible multimodality PET/SPECT-MRI agent on a single T2 contrast MRI probe. Keywords: magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomo

The fast growth of fashion brands and the popularity of counterfeit goods has posed certain challenges to the existing and new luxury fashion brand players. This study elaborates on the factors driving the market for counterfeit products in the UK. The data collected by means of survey questionnaires from 306 respondents and empirical techniques including descriptive and inferential statistics (correlation and multiple regression analysis), have shown that the consumers have a negative attitude towards counterfeit luxury products. However, they showed fewer tendencies to seek for a brand whose counterfeit cannot easily be found and preferred to buy a genuine rather than a counterfeit. In terms of frequency of purchase, reversion to counterfeit has negative impact, unlike the tendency to seek a brand whose counterfeit is hard to find. The overall results show that the attitude and acceptance of counterfeit do not greatly prevail in the market. However, about 27% of respondents demonstrated either a positive or a neutral tendency towards counterfeit products, which could have serious implications for the luxury goods market.

© 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. The second messenger cyclic-di-adenosine monophosphate (c-di-AMP) plays important roles in growth, virulence, cell wall homeostasis, potassium transport and affects resistance to antibiotics, heat and osmotic stress. Most Firmicutes contain only one c-di-AMP synthesizing diadenylate cyclase (CdaA); however, little is known about signals and effectors controlling CdaA activity and c-di-AMP levels. In this study, a genetic screen was employed to identify components which affect the c-di-AMP level in Lactococcus. We characterized suppressor mutations that restored osmoresistance to spontaneous c-di-AMP phosphodiesterase gdpP mutants, which contain high c-di-AMP levels. Loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations were identified in the cdaA and gdpP genes, respectively, which led to lower c-di-AMP levels. A mutation was also identified in the phosphoglucosamine mutase gene glmM, which is commonly located within the cdaA operon in bacteria. The glmM I154F mutation resulted in a lowering of the c-di-AMP level and a reduction in the key peptidoglycan precursor UDP-N-acetylglucosamine in L. lactis. C-di-AMP synthesis by CdaA was shown to be inhibited by GlmMI154F more than GlmM and GlmMI154F was found to bind more strongly to CdaA than GlmM. These findings identify GlmM as a c-di-AMP level modulating protein and provide a direct connection between c-di-AMP synthesis and peptidoglycan biosynthesis. c-di-AMP is an essential signalling molecule which affects peptidoglycan homeostasis and resistance against various stressors, however little is known regarding how the c-di-AMP level is regulated in the cell. Here we identify the peptidoglycan biosynthesis enzyme GlmM as a modulator of c-di-AMP synthesis through its regulation of diadenylate cyclase enzyme CdaA activity in Lactococcus lactis.

© 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. The second messenger cyclic-di-adenosine monophosphate (c-di-AMP) plays important roles in growth, virulence, cell wall homeostasis, potassium transport and affects resistance to antibiotics, heat and osmotic stress. Most Firmicutes contain only one c-di-AMP synthesizing diadenylate cyclase (CdaA); however, little is known about signals and effectors controlling CdaA activity and c-di-AMP levels. In this study, a genetic screen was employed to identify components which affect the c-di-AMP level in Lactococcus. We characterized suppressor mutations that restored osmoresistance to spontaneous c-di-AMP phosphodiesterase gdpP mutants, which contain high c-di-AMP levels. Loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations were identified in the cdaA and gdpP genes, respectively, which led to lower c-di-AMP levels. A mutation was also identified in the phosphoglucosamine mutase gene glmM, which is commonly located within the cdaA operon in bacteria. The glmM I154F mutation resulted in a lowering of the c-di-AMP level and a reduction in the key peptidoglycan precursor UDP-N-acetylglucosamine in L. lactis. C-di-AMP synthesis by CdaA was shown to be inhibited by GlmMI154F more than GlmM and GlmMI154F was found to bind more strongly to CdaA than GlmM. These findings identify GlmM as a c-di-AMP level modulating protein and provide a direct connection between c-di-AMP synthesis and peptidoglycan biosynthesis. c-di-AMP is an essential signalling molecule which affects peptidoglycan homeostasis and resistance against various stressors, however little is known regarding how the c-di-AMP level is regulated in the cell. Here we identify the peptidoglycan biosynthesis enzyme GlmM as a modulator of c-di-AMP synthesis through its regulation of diadenylate cyclase enzyme CdaA activity in Lactococcus lactis.

Benzoporphyrin-derivative (BPD)-monoacid-ring A photodynamic therapy (PDT) was performed on subcutaneous tumor implants in a rat ovarian cancer model. In order to assess PDT efficacy the tumor and normal tissue optical properties were measured noninvasively prior to and during PDT using frequency-domain photon migration (FDPM). FDPM data were used to quantify tissue absorption and reduced scattering properties (given by the parameters mu a and mu's, respectively) at four near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths (674, 811, 849 and 956 nm). Tissue physiologic properties, including the in vivo concentration of BPD, deoxy-hemoglobin (Hb), oxy-hemoglobin (HbO2), total hemoglobin (TotHb), water (H2O) and percent tissue hemoglobin oxygen saturation (%StO2), were calculated from optical property data. PDT efficacy was also determined from morphometric analysis of tumor necrosis in histologic specimens. All the measured tumor properties changed significantly during PDT. [Hb] increased by 9%, while [HbO2], [TotHb] and %StO2 decreased by 18, 7 and 12%, respectively. Using histologic data we show that long-term PDT efficacy is highly correlated to mean BPD concentration in tumor and PDT-induced acute changes in [HbO2], [TotHb] and %StO2 (correlation coefficients of 0.829, 0.817 and 0.953, respectively). Overall, our results indicate that NIR FDPM spectroscopy is able to quantify noninvasively and dynamically the PDT-induced physiological effects in vivo that are highly correlated with therapeutic efficacy.

Benzoporphyrin-derivative (BPD)-monoacid-ring A photodynamic therapy (PDT) was performed on subcutaneous tumor implants in a rat ovarian cancer model. In order to assess PDT efficacy the tumor and normal tissue optical properties were measured noninvasively prior to and during PDT using frequency-domain photon migration (FDPM). FDPM data were used to quantify tissue absorption and reduced scattering properties (given by the parameters mu a and mu's, respectively) at four near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths (674, 811, 849 and 956 nm). Tissue physiologic properties, including the in vivo concentration of BPD, deoxy-hemoglobin (Hb), oxy-hemoglobin (HbO2), total hemoglobin (TotHb), water (H2O) and percent tissue hemoglobin oxygen saturation (%StO2), were calculated from optical property data. PDT efficacy was also determined from morphometric analysis of tumor necrosis in histologic specimens. All the measured tumor properties changed significantly during PDT. [Hb] increased by 9%, while [HbO2], [TotHb] and %StO2 decreased by 18, 7 and 12%, respectively. Using histologic data we show that long-term PDT efficacy is highly correlated to mean BPD concentration in tumor and PDT-induced acute changes in [HbO2], [TotHb] and %StO2 (correlation coefficients of 0.829, 0.817 and 0.953, respectively). Overall, our results indicate that NIR FDPM spectroscopy is able to quantify noninvasively and dynamically the PDT-induced physiological effects in vivo that are highly correlated with therapeutic efficacy.

Absorption (mu(a)) and reduced scattering (mu(s)') spectra of turbid media were quantified with a noncontact imaging approach based on a Fourier-transform interferometric imaging system (FTIIS). The FTIIS was used to collect hyperspectral images of the steady-state diffuse reflectance from turbid media. Spatially resolved reflectance data from Monte Carlo simulations were fitted to the recorded hyperspectral images to quantify mu(a) and mu(s)' spectra in the 550-850-nm region. A simple and effective calibration approach was introduced to account for the instrument response. With reflectance data that were close to and far from the source (0.5-6.5 mm), mu(a) and mu(s)' of homogeneous, semi-infinite turbid phantoms with optical property ranges comparable with those of tissues were determined with an accuracy of +/-7% and +/-3%, respectively. Prediction accuracy for mu(a) and mu(s)' degraded to +/-12% and +/-4%, respectively, when only reflectance data close to the source (0.5-2.5 mm) were used. Results indicate that reflectance data close to and far from the source are necessary for optimal quantification of mu(a) and mu(s)'. The spectral properties of mu(a) and mu(s)' values were used to determine the concentrations of absorbers and scatterers, respectively. Absorber and scatterer concentrations of two-chromophore turbid media were determined with an accuracy of +/-5% and +/-3%, respectively.

Noncontact, frequency-domain measurements of diffusely reflected light are used to quantify optical properties of two-layer tissuelike turbid media. The irradiating source is a sinusoidal intensity-modulated plane wave, with modulation frequencies ranging from 10 to 1500 MHz. Frequency-dependent phase and amplitude of diffusely reflected photon density waves are simultaneously fitted to a diffusion-based two-layer model to quantify absorption (mu(a)) and reduced scattering (mu(s)') parameters of each layer as well as the upper-layer thickness (l). Study results indicate that the optical properties of two-layer media can be determined with a percent accuracy of the order of +/-9% and +/-5% for mu(a) and mu(s)', respectively. The accuracy of upper-layer thickness (l) estimation is as good as +/-6% when optical properties of upper and lower layers are known. Optical property and layer thickness prediction accuracy degrade significantly when more than three free parameters are extracted from data fits. Problems with convergence are encountered when all five free parameters (mu(a) and mu(s)' of upper and lower layers and thickness l) must be deduced.

Noncontact, frequency-domain measurements of diffusely reflected light are used to quantify optical properties of two-layer tissuelike turbid media. The irradiating source is a sinusoidal intensity-modulated plane wave, with modulation frequencies ranging from 10 to 1500 MHz. Frequency-dependent phase and amplitude of diffusely reflected photon density waves are simultaneously fitted to a diffusion-based two-layer model to quantify absorption (mu(a)) and reduced scattering (mu(s)') parameters of each layer as well as the upper-layer thickness (l). Study results indicate that the optical properties of two-layer media can be determined with a percent accuracy of the order of +/-9% and +/-5% for mu(a) and mu(s)', respectively. The accuracy of upper-layer thickness (l) estimation is as good as +/-6% when optical properties of upper and lower layers are known. Optical property and layer thickness prediction accuracy degrade significantly when more than three free parameters are extracted from data fits. Problems with convergence are encountered when all five free parameters (mu(a) and mu(s)' of upper and lower layers and thickness l) must be deduced.

Absorption (mu(a)) and reduced scattering (mu(s)') spectra of turbid media were quantified with a noncontact imaging approach based on a Fourier-transform interferometric imaging system (FTIIS). The FTIIS was used to collect hyperspectral images of the steady-state diffuse reflectance from turbid media. Spatially resolved reflectance data from Monte Carlo simulations were fitted to the recorded hyperspectral images to quantify mu(a) and mu(s)' spectra in the 550-850-nm region. A simple and effective calibration approach was introduced to account for the instrument response. With reflectance data that were close to and far from the source (0.5-6.5 mm), mu(a) and mu(s)' of homogeneous, semi-infinite turbid phantoms with optical property ranges comparable with those of tissues were determined with an accuracy of +/-7% and +/-3%, respectively. Prediction accuracy for mu(a) and mu(s)' degraded to +/-12% and +/-4%, respectively, when only reflectance data close to the source (0.5-2.5 mm) were used. Results indicate that reflectance data close to and far from the source are necessary for optimal quantification of mu(a) and mu(s)'. The spectral properties of mu(a) and mu(s)' values were used to determine the concentrations of absorbers and scatterers, respectively. Absorber and scatterer concentrations of two-chromophore turbid media were determined with an accuracy of +/-5% and +/-3%, respectively.

A fast mean field variational Bayes (MFVB) approach to nonparametric regression when the predictors are subject to classical measurement error is investigated. It is shown that the use of such technology to the measurement error setting achieves reasonable accuracy. In tandem with the methodological development, a customized Markov chain Monte Carlo method is developed to facilitate the evaluation of accuracy of the MFVB method. © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A fast mean field variational Bayes (MFVB) approach to nonparametric regression when the predictors are subject to classical measurement error is investigated. It is shown that the use of such technology to the measurement error setting achieves reasonable accuracy. In tandem with the methodological development, a customized Markov chain Monte Carlo method is developed to facilitate the evaluation of accuracy of the MFVB method. © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

In the context of the Silicon tracking for a Linear Collider (SiLC) R&D collaboration, a highly compact mixed-signal chip has been designed in 130nm CMOS technology intended to read Silicon strip detectors for the experiments at the future International Linear Collider. The chip includes eighty eight channels of a full analog signal processing chain and analog to digital conversion with the corresponding digital controls and readout channels. The chip is 5x10mm2 where the analog implementation represents 4/5 of the total Silicon area., Comment: 3 pages, 4 figures, LCWS08 workshop

Some preliminary thoughts on how to design and develop the DAQ architecture for the Silicon tracking system at the future Linear electron positron collider, are briefly presented here. The proposed structure includes three DAQ levels. The first level is based on a high level processing mix-mode ASIC sitting on the detector. The second level still on the detector is a DSP like interface that will send the processed data to the general DAQ system. Several novel technological aspects are part of this development. The role of the ongoing test beam activities with detector prototypes as training camp is emphasized., Comment: 4 pages, 5 figures, LCWS08 Proceedings

The present study examined whether psychopaths exhibit deficits in selective attention and executive functions. Prison inmates were assigned to either a "psychopath" group or a "control" group according to their scores on the PCL-R [Hare, 1991: Toronto, Multi-Health Systems]. The two groups were compared in terms of performance on the following tests: (1) D-II cancellation, (2) Porteus Maze, (3) Modified Wisconsin Card Sorting, (4) Stroop Color Word Interference, (5) Trail Making, and (6) Tower of London. The results support the hypothesis of selective attention and specific executive function deficits among psychopaths. Specifically, psychopaths' abilities to maintain a plan and to inhibit irrelevant information were inferior to those of control participants. (C) 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

The aims of this study were: (i) to quantify near-infrared optical properties of normal cervical tissues and high-grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions (H-SIL); (ii) to assess the feasibility of differentiating normal cervical tissues from H-SIL on the basis of these properties; and (iii) to determine how cervical tissue optical properties change following photodynamic therapy (PDT) of H-SIL in vivo. Using the frequency domain photon migration technique, non-invasive measurements of normal and dysplastic ecto-cervical tissue optical properties, i.e. absorption (mu(a)) and effective scattering coefficients, and physiological parameters, i.e. tissue water and haemoglobin concentration, percentage oxygen saturation (%SO(2)), were performed on 10 patients scheduled for PDT of histologically-proven H-SIL. Cervix absorption and effective scattering parameters were up to 15% lower in H-SIL sites compared with normal cervical tissue for all wavelengths studied (674, 811, 849, 956 nm). Following PDT, all mu(a) values increased significantly, due to elevated tissue blood and water content associated with PDT-induced hyperaemia and oedema. Tissue total haemoglobin concentration ([TotHb]) and arterio-venous oxygen saturation measured in H-SIL sites were lower than normal sites ([TotHb]: 88.6 +/- 35.8 micromol/l versus 124.7 +/- 22.6 micromol/l; %SO(2): 76.5 +/- 14.7% versus 84.9 +/- 3.4%).

The aims of this study were: (i) to quantify near-infrared optical properties of normal cervical tissues and high-grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions (H-SIL); (ii) to assess the feasibility of differentiating normal cervical tissues from H-SIL on the basis of these properties; and (iii) to determine how cervical tissue optical properties change following photodynamic therapy (PDT) of H-SIL in vivo. Using the frequency domain photon migration technique, non-invasive measurements of normal and dysplastic ecto-cervical tissue optical properties, i.e. absorption (mu(a)) and effective scattering coefficients, and physiological parameters, i.e. tissue water and haemoglobin concentration, percentage oxygen saturation (%SO(2)), were performed on 10 patients scheduled for PDT of histologically-proven H-SIL. Cervix absorption and effective scattering parameters were up to 15% lower in H-SIL sites compared with normal cervical tissue for all wavelengths studied (674, 811, 849, 956 nm). Following PDT, all mu(a) values increased significantly, due to elevated tissue blood and water content associated with PDT-induced hyperaemia and oedema. Tissue total haemoglobin concentration ([TotHb]) and arterio-venous oxygen saturation measured in H-SIL sites were lower than normal sites ([TotHb]: 88.6 +/- 35.8 micromol/l versus 124.7 +/- 22.6 micromol/l; %SO(2): 76.5 +/- 14.7% versus 84.9 +/- 3.4%).

The PCL-R (Hare, 1991) presents high reliability and validity characteristics. The instrument is the measure of choice for the assessment of psychopathic personality The PCL-R has never been submitted to psychometric analysis in french speeking european samples. The study examines the psychometric caracteristics of the PCL-R on an Belgian prison sample. The study assessed the inter-raters reliability parameters, the Alpha Cronbach coefficient and the PCL-R mean scores. The two correlated factors extracted were compared with those of others European and Nord American samples. The study also described the concomitant validity of the instrument by computing the correlations between the PCL-R scores and the type of offence.