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I dagens samhälle är energieffektivisering en viktig parameter när man pratar om hållbar-het. Många fastigheter saknar tekniska lösningar för att effektivt övervaka och hantera en-ergiförbrukning. För att möta detta behov strävar företag som iquest efter att digitalisera och automatisera energiövervakning. Iquest har i nuläget problem med ineffektivitet och dödläge vid uppladdning av stora datamängder i deras nuvarande grafdatabas. Genom en noggrann utvärdering har examensarbetet identifierat lämpliga alternativ för iquest att överväga.Under undersökningen presenterades grafdatabaserna Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph, Ama-zon Neptune, GraphDB, BlazingGraph och OrientDB. Baserat på grafdatabasernas egen-skaper och funktioner kunde det konstateras att Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph, Amazon Neptune och GraphDB uppfyllde kraven som ställdes för en lämplig grafdatabas.Implementeringen av grafdatabaserna begränsades av tidsbegränsningar och endast Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph och GraphDB kunde implementeras och genomgå tester. Trots att testerna utfördes med reducerade datamängder och gratisversionen av data-baserna, visade resultaten att två av de implementerade databaserna klarade alla testerna., In today's society, energy efficiency is an important parameter when discussing sustaina-bility. Many buildings lack technical solutions to effectively monitor and manage energy consumption. To address this need, companies like iquest strive to digitize and automate energy monitoring. Currently, iquest faces issues of inefficiency and bottlenecks when up-loading large amounts of data into their current graph database. Through a thorough eval-uation, the thesis project has identified suitable alternatives for iquest to consider.During the investigation, the graph databases Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph, Amazon Nep-tune, GraphDB, BlazingGraph, and OrientDB were presented. Based on the characteristics and features of these graph databases, it was determined that Neo4j, Stardog, Allegro-graph, Amazon Neptune, and GraphDB meet the requirements for a suitable graph data-base.The implementation of the graph databases was limited by time constraints, and only Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph, and GraphDB could be implemented and subjected to test-ing. Despite conducting tests with reduced data volumes and using the free versions of the databases, the results showed that two of the implemented databases successfully passed all the tests.

I dagens samhälle är energieffektivisering en viktig parameter när man pratar om hållbar-het. Många fastigheter saknar tekniska lösningar för att effektivt övervaka och hantera en-ergiförbrukning. För att möta detta behov strävar företag som iquest efter att digitalisera och automatisera energiövervakning. Iquest har i nuläget problem med ineffektivitet och dödläge vid uppladdning av stora datamängder i deras nuvarande grafdatabas. Genom en noggrann utvärdering har examensarbetet identifierat lämpliga alternativ för iquest att överväga.Under undersökningen presenterades grafdatabaserna Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph, Ama-zon Neptune, GraphDB, BlazingGraph och OrientDB. Baserat på grafdatabasernas egen-skaper och funktioner kunde det konstateras att Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph, Amazon Neptune och GraphDB uppfyllde kraven som ställdes för en lämplig grafdatabas.Implementeringen av grafdatabaserna begränsades av tidsbegränsningar och endast Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph och GraphDB kunde implementeras och genomgå tester. Trots att testerna utfördes med reducerade datamängder och gratisversionen av data-baserna, visade resultaten att två av de implementerade databaserna klarade alla testerna., In today's society, energy efficiency is an important parameter when discussing sustaina-bility. Many buildings lack technical solutions to effectively monitor and manage energy consumption. To address this need, companies like iquest strive to digitize and automate energy monitoring. Currently, iquest faces issues of inefficiency and bottlenecks when up-loading large amounts of data into their current graph database. Through a thorough eval-uation, the thesis project has identified suitable alternatives for iquest to consider.During the investigation, the graph databases Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph, Amazon Nep-tune, GraphDB, BlazingGraph, and OrientDB were presented. Based on the characteristics and features of these graph databases, it was determined that Neo4j, Stardog, Allegro-graph, Amazon Neptune, and GraphDB meet the requirements for a suitable graph data-base.The implementation of the graph databases was limited by time constraints, and only Neo4j, Stardog, Allegrograph, and GraphDB could be implemented and subjected to test-ing. Despite conducting tests with reduced data volumes and using the free versions of the databases, the results showed that two of the implemented databases successfully passed all the tests.

Forest stand and environmental factors influence soil organic carbon (SOC) storage, but little is known about their relative impacts in different soil layers. Moreover, how environmental factors modulate the impact of stand factors, particularly species mixing, on SOC storage, is largely unexplored. In this study, conducted in 21 forest triplets (two monocultures of different species and their mixture on the same site) distributed in Europe, we tested the hypothesis that stand factors (functional identity and diversity) have stronger effects on topsoil (FF + 0–10 cm) C storage than environmental factors (climatic water availability, clay + silt content, oxalate-extractable Al–Alox) but that the opposite occurs in the subsoil (10–40 cm). We also tested the hypothesis that functional diversity improves SOC storage under high climatic water availability, clay + silt contents, and Alox. We characterized functional identity as the basal area proportion of broadleaved species (beech and/or oak), and functional diversity as the product of broadleaved and conifer (pine) proportions. The results show that functional identity was the main driver of topsoil C storage, while climatic water availability had the largest control on subsoil C storage. Functional diversity decreased topsoil C storage under increasing climatic water availability, but the opposite was observed in the subsoil. Functional diversity effects on topsoil C increased with increasing clay + silt content, while its effects on subsoil C were negative at increasing Alox content. This suggests that functional diversity effect on SOC storage changes along gradients in environmental factors and the direction of effects depends on soil depth.

The dynamics of a binary system moving in the background of a black hole is affected by tidal forces. In this work, for the Kerr black hole, we derive the electric and magnetic tidal moments at quadrupole order, where the latter are computed for the first time in full generality. We make use of these moments in the scenario of a hierarchical triple system made of a Kerr black hole and an extreme-mass ratio binary system consisting of a Schwarzschild black hole and a test particle. We study how the secular dynamics of the test particle in the binary system is distorted by the presence of tidal forces from a much larger Kerr black hole. Our treatment includes strong gravitational effects beyond the post-Newtonian approximation both for the binary system and for the tidal forces since the binary system is allowed to be close to the event horizon of the Kerr black hole. We compute the shifts in the physical quantities for the secular dynamics of the test particle and show that they are gauge invariant. In particular, we apply our formalism to the innermost stable circular orbit for the test particle and to the case of the photon sphere. Our results are relevant for the astrophysical situation in which the binary system is in the vicinity of a supermassive black hole.

open, In my PhD project, I investigated the photophysical process of photon upconversion assisted by triplet-triplet annihilation (sTTA-UC) through spectroscopy studies in a variety of systems, profoundly different on many levels. In sTTA-UC high energy radiation is emitted from the fluorescent recombination of the excited singlet of an emitter molecule, previously populated via annihilation of the metastable triplet states of two emitters. This is a sensitized process since a sensitizer is necessary to harvest the low energy incident light and to transfer the stored energy to the emitters via Dexter energy transfer. Because its functioning relies on long-lived metastable triplets, this process can be highly efficient also under low power, noncoherent light. As such, sTTA-UC is particularly suited for solar applications as it can increase the conversion efficiency by reducing transmission losses. During my studies, I focused on addressing two crucial issues that still limit the application of upconverters in solar technologies, i.e. the limited storage ability of common organic sensitizers and the poor sTTA-UC performance in solid-state upconverters, which are intrinsically better suited than liquid solutions for technological applications. To solve the first problem, I investigated hybrid sensitizers, composed of semiconductor nanostructures decorated with conjugated organic ligands characterized by broadband absorption. CdSe nanocrystals (NCs) doped with gold cations and decorated with 9-anthracene carboxylic acid demonstrated to be efficient innovative broadband hybrid sensitizers. The doping strategy inserts into the NCs energy gap localized hole-accepting states where the holes localize on the picosecond timescale, outpacing hole transfer to the ligand HOMO. With this strategy, I achieved the UC efficiency of 12%, the record performance obtained so far for hybrid upconverters. I then discussed how the CdSe nanoplatelets surface and photophysical properties make them, Durante il dottorato ho investigato il processo fotofisico di "upconversion" assistito da annichilazione tripletto-tripletto (TTA-UC) tramite studi di spettroscopia in sistemi profondamente differenti gli uni dagli altri. In TTA-UC radiazione ad alta energia è emessa dalla ricombinazione radiativa dello stato di singoletto eccitato di una molecola emettitore, popolato precedentemente dall'annichilazione dei tripletti di due emettitori. Un sensibilizzatore immagazzina la luce incidente a bassa energia e trasferisce l'eccitazione agli emettitori tramite trasferimento di energia alla Dexter. Poiché il suo funzionamento si basa su tripletti mestastabili, TTA-UC può essere altamente efficiente anche in condizioni di luce non coerente e a bassa energia. Come tale, è particolarmente adatto per dispositivi che sfruttano l'energia solare poiché è in grado di aumentarne l'efficienza di conversione limitando le perdite per trasmissione. Mi sono concentrata su due problemi importanti che tuttora limitano l'impiego di materiali che attuano TTA-UC (upconverters), ossia la limitata capacità di immagazzinare energia dei comuni sensibilizzatori organici e le scarse prestazioni di TTA-UC in upconverters a stato solido, i quali sono più adatti per applicazioni tecnologiche rispetto a sistemi liquidi. Per risolvere il primo problema ho investigato sensibilizzatori ibridi, composti da nanostrutture a semiconduttore decorate con molecole organiche, con ampio assorbimento. Nanocristalli di CdSe drogati con cationi d'oro e decorati con acido antracenico carbossilico si sono dimostrati essere sensibilizzatori ibridi efficienti ed innovativi. Il drogante introduce nel gap energetico dei nanocristalli livelli localizzati su cui le lacune si localizzano sulla scala dei picosecondi, più velocemente dell'estrazione di lacune sul livello HOMO dei leganti. Con tale strategia ho raggiunto l'efficienza di UC del 12%, record per sistemi ibridi. Ho poi mostrato come le proprietà superficiali e fotofis, 0, open, Ronchi, A

Background: Approximately 23% of myeloma patients have cytogenetic abnormalities which confer a significantly poorer prognosis, and therefore they are defined as “high-risk myeloma” (HRC+) patients. Objective: To estimate the economic impact of a large-scale use of the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) test for the identification of HRC+ patients. Methods: The comparison between the total costs of two scenarios, the first one where patients are not tested for cytogenetic abnormalities, the second one where FISH test is used to identify HRC+ patients and to treat them with the most appropriate therapies, was conducted. The Italian National Healthcare Service (NHS) perspective was adopted. The cost of each treatment was estimated by multiplying Italian unit ex-factory prices by median progression-free survival (PFS). For each scenario, the cost per month of PFS gained was calculated. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact on the results. Results: N = 777 patients are expected to be HRC+ in Italy. If they were all identified through FISH test and treated with the most appropriate therapies, this would result into savings of € 552,000 and a PFS gain of 419 months, compared with a scenario with no identification. The cost per patient per month of PFS gained is lower in the scenario where FISH test was available (€ 9,921 vs € 10,229 in the scenario without testing). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the base case results. Conclusions: A larger adoption of FISH test to identify HRC+ patients is expected to improve clinical outcomes in relapsed refractory multiple myeloma.

Background: Approximately 23% of myeloma patients have cytogenetic abnormalities which confer a significantly poorer prognosis, and therefore they are defined as “high-risk myeloma” (HRC+) patients. Objective: To estimate the economic impact of a large-scale use of the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) test for the identification of HRC+ patients. Methods: The comparison between the total costs of two scenarios, the first one where patients are not tested for cytogenetic abnormalities, the second one where FISH test is used to identify HRC+ patients and to treat them with the most appropriate therapies, was conducted. The Italian National Healthcare Service (NHS) perspective was adopted. The cost of each treatment was estimated by multiplying Italian unit ex-factory prices by median progression-free survival (PFS). For each scenario, the cost per month of PFS gained was calculated. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact on the results. Results: N = 777 patients are expected to be HRC+ in Italy. If they were all identified through FISH test and treated with the most appropriate therapies, this would result into savings of € 552,000 and a PFS gain of 419 months, compared with a scenario with no identification. The cost per patient per month of PFS gained is lower in the scenario where FISH test was available (€ 9,921 vs € 10,229 in the scenario without testing). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the base case results. Conclusions: A larger adoption of FISH test to identify HRC+ patients is expected to improve clinical outcomes in relapsed refractory multiple myeloma.

Background: Approximately 23% of myeloma patients have cytogenetic abnormalities which confer a significantly poorer prognosis, and therefore they are defined as “high-risk myeloma” (HRC+) patients. Objective: To estimate the economic impact of a large-scale use of the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) test for the identification of HRC+ patients. Methods: The comparison between the total costs of two scenarios, the first one where patients are not tested for cytogenetic abnormalities, the second one where FISH test is used to identify HRC+ patients and to treat them with the most appropriate therapies, was conducted. The Italian National Healthcare Service (NHS) perspective was adopted. The cost of each treatment was estimated by multiplying Italian unit ex-factory prices by median progression-free survival (PFS). For each scenario, the cost per month of PFS gained was calculated. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact on the results. Results: N = 777 patients are expected to be HRC+ in Italy. If they were all identified through FISH test and treated with the most appropriate therapies, this would result into savings of € 552,000 and a PFS gain of 419 months, compared with a scenario with no identification. The cost per patient per month of PFS gained is lower in the scenario where FISH test was available (€ 9,921 vs € 10,229 in the scenario without testing). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the base case results. Conclusions: A larger adoption of FISH test to identify HRC+ patients is expected to improve clinical outcomes in relapsed refractory multiple myeloma.

The aim of this study was to investigate the blood concentrations of L-arginine, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), and L-homoarginine, which are regulators of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, in single, twin, and triplet pregnancies in ewes undergoing either a dietary energy restriction or receiving 100% of their energy requirements. From day 24 to 100 of pregnancy, the ewes were fed ryegrass hay and two different iso-proteic concentrates fulfilling either 100% of ewes' energy requirements (control group; n = 30, 14 singleton pregnancies, 12 twin pregnancies, and 4 triplet pregnancies) or only 45% (feed-restricted group; n = 29; 11 singleton pregnancies, 15 twin pregnancies, and 3 triplet pregnancies). Blood samples were collected monthly to measure, by capillary electrophoresis, the circulating concentrations of arginine, ADMA, homoarginine, SDMA, and of other amino acids not involved in NO synthesis to rule out possible direct effects of diet restriction on their concentrations. No differences between groups were observed in the circulating concentrations of most of the amino acids investigated. L-homoarginine increased markedly in both groups during pregnancy (p < 0.001). SDMA (p < 0.01), L-arginine, and ADMA concentrations were higher in feed-restricted ewes than in controls. The L-arginine/ADMA ratio, an indicator of NO production by NOS, decreased towards term without differences between groups. The ADMA/SDMA ratio, an index of the ADMA degrading enzyme activity, was higher in controls than in feed-restricted ewes (p < 0.001). Obtained results show that circulating concentrations of L-arginine, of its metabolites, and the ratio between NO synthesis boosters and inhibitors are altered in energy-restricted ewes, and that these alterations are more marked in ewes carrying multiple fetuses.

Third generation photovoltaics are inexpensive modules that promise power conversion efficiencies exceeding the thermodynamic Shockley–Queisser limit, perhaps by using up or down-converters, intermediate band solar cells, tandem cells, hot carrier devices, or multiexciton generation. Photon upconversion has attracted enormous attention due to its wide range of applications in biological imaging, photocatalysis, and especially photovoltaics. Here, in the first chapter, the effect of quantum confinement on the efficiency of Dexter energy transfer from PbS and PbSe nanocrystals (NCs) to a rubrene acceptor is studied. A series of experiments exploring the relationship between NC size and the upconversion quantum yield (QY) in this hybrid platform show that energy transfer occurs in the Marcus normal regime. By decreasing the NC diameter from 3.5 to 2.9 nm for PbS and from 3.2 to 2.5 nm for PbSe, the relative upconversion QY is enhanced about 700 and 250‐fold respectively. In addition, the dynamic Stern–Volmer constant (KSV) for the quenching of PbSe NCs by rubrene increases approximately fivefold with a decrease in NC diameter from 3.2 to 2.5 nm to a value of 200 M−1. This work shows that high quality, well‐passivated, small NCs are critical for efficient triplet energy transfer to molecular acceptors. In the second chapter, we report an efficient upconversion of infrared to visible light. Colloidally synthesized core–shell lead sulfide– cadmium sulfide nanocrystals in combination with tetracene derivatives absorb near infrared light and emit visible light at 560 nm with an upconversion quantum yield (QY) of 8.4 ± 1.0%, which is a factor of 4 lower than the maximum upconversion QY possible. The molecular and nanocrystal engineering here paves the way toward utilizing this hybrid upconversion platform in photovoltaics, photodetectors and photocatalysis. In the third chapter, we study the effect of shell composition and thickness on triplet energy transfer (TET) from PbS

The mechanisms behind handedness formation in humans are still poorly understood. Very low birthweight is associated with higher odds of left-handedness, but whether this is due to low birthweight itself or premature birth is unknown. Handedness has also been linked to development, but the role of birthweight behind this association is unclear. Knowing that birthweight is lower in multiple births, triplets being about 1.5 kg lighter in comparison with singletons, and that multiples have a higher prevalence of left-handedness than singletons, we studied the association between birthweight and handedness in two large samples consisting exclusively of triplets from Japan (n = 1,305) and the Netherlands (n = 947). In both samples, left-handers had significantly lower birthweight (Japanese mean = 1,599 g [95% confidence interval (CI): 1,526–1,672 g]; Dutch mean = 1,794 g [95% CI: 1,709–1,879 g]) compared with right-handers (Japanese mean = 1,727 g [95% CI: 1,699–1,755 g]; Dutch mean = 1,903 g [95% CI: 1,867–1,938 g]). Within-family and between-family analyses both suggested that left-handedness is associated with lower birthweight, also when fully controlling for gestational age. Left-handers also had significantly delayed motor development and smaller infant head circumference compared with right-handers, but these associations diluted and became nonsignificant when controlling for birthweight. Our study in triplets provides evidence for the link between low birthweight and left-handedness. Our results also suggest that developmental differences between left- and right-handers are due to a shared etiology associated with low birthweight.

Third generation photovoltaics are inexpensive modules that promise power conversion efficiencies exceeding the thermodynamic Shockley–Queisser limit, perhaps by using up or down-converters, intermediate band solar cells, tandem cells, hot carrier devices, or multiexciton generation. Photon upconversion has attracted enormous attention due to its wide range of applications in biological imaging, photocatalysis, and especially photovoltaics. Here, in the first chapter, the effect of quantum confinement on the efficiency of Dexter energy transfer from PbS and PbSe nanocrystals (NCs) to a rubrene acceptor is studied. A series of experiments exploring the relationship between NC size and the upconversion quantum yield (QY) in this hybrid platform show that energy transfer occurs in the Marcus normal regime. By decreasing the NC diameter from 3.5 to 2.9 nm for PbS and from 3.2 to 2.5 nm for PbSe, the relative upconversion QY is enhanced about 700 and 250‐fold respectively. In addition, the dynamic Stern–Volmer constant (KSV) for the quenching of PbSe NCs by rubrene increases approximately fivefold with a decrease in NC diameter from 3.2 to 2.5 nm to a value of 200 M−1. This work shows that high quality, well‐passivated, small NCs are critical for efficient triplet energy transfer to molecular acceptors. In the second chapter, we report an efficient upconversion of infrared to visible light. Colloidally synthesized core–shell lead sulfide– cadmium sulfide nanocrystals in combination with tetracene derivatives absorb near infrared light and emit visible light at 560 nm with an upconversion quantum yield (QY) of 8.4 ± 1.0%, which is a factor of 4 lower than the maximum upconversion QY possible. The molecular and nanocrystal engineering here paves the way toward utilizing this hybrid upconversion platform in photovoltaics, photodetectors and photocatalysis. In the third chapter, we study the effect of shell composition and thickness on triplet energy transfer (TET) from PbS

The mechanisms behind handedness formation in humans are still poorly understood. Very low birthweight is associated with higher odds of left-handedness, but whether this is due to low birthweight itself or premature birth is unknown. Handedness has also been linked to development, but the role of birthweight behind this association is unclear. Knowing that birthweight is lower in multiple births, triplets being about 1.5 kg lighter in comparison with singletons, and that multiples have a higher prevalence of left-handedness than singletons, we studied the association between birthweight and handedness in two large samples consisting exclusively of triplets from Japan (n = 1,305) and the Netherlands (n = 947). In both samples, left-handers had significantly lower birthweight (Japanese mean = 1,599 g [95% confidence interval (CI): 1,526–1,672 g]; Dutch mean = 1,794 g [95% CI: 1,709–1,879 g]) compared with right-handers (Japanese mean = 1,727 g [95% CI: 1,699–1,755 g]; Dutch mean = 1,903 g [95% CI: 1,867–1,938 g]). Within-family and between-family analyses both suggested that left-handedness is associated with lower birthweight, also when fully controlling for gestational age. Left-handers also had significantly delayed motor development and smaller infant head circumference compared with right-handers, but these associations diluted and became nonsignificant when controlling for birthweight. Our study in triplets provides evidence for the link between low birthweight and left-handedness. Our results also suggest that developmental differences between left- and right-handers are due to a shared etiology associated with low birthweight.

This paper presents the results of an experimental program carried out in the laboratory to evaluate the shear strength of aerial lime mortar brickwork. Masonry triplets and walls were tested after one year from their construction by adopting two different testing methods. The first approach consisted in the shear tests of masonry triplets, whereas the second technique was based on core drilling from walls of 90 mm diameter cylindrical specimens to be subjected to Brazilian tests with varying inclination of the diametric mortar joint. The first method is more adequate to characterize new masonry, whilst the second one is a suitable MDT procedure for the analysis of existing structures. The experimental results from standard and non-standard tests were properly investigated in order to obtain the shear failure envelope of the bond interface and mortar joint. The comparisons between the different tests and their interpretative theories show the possibilities of the novel non-standard testing method for the evaluation of the shear strength of structures of the built cultural heritage., Peer Reviewed, Postprint (author's final draft)

The Mess triplets playing with a toy telephone in the toy department of Sears in Fargo, N.D. The boy on the left holds the receiver to his ears, while the boy on the right holds the telephone. Boxes of toy are visible in the background., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "The line muse be dead - A toy pay telephone caught the boys' attention so John decided to make a call. David held the box and Mathew watched apprehensively." - caption with image published in The Fargo Forum, December 5, 1954, p. 16., Title supplied by staff., The Sears Roebuck and Co. department store was located in the Black Building, 114-118 Broadway, Fargo, N.D. in 1954.

Mr. and Mrs. Vernelle Ness and family seated in chairs, holding their triplet infants. Mr. Ness and their daughter Velma are feeding the triplets, while another son, Lloyd stands with a baby bottle in his hands., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Family Affair – All members of the Ness family pitch in to feed the triplets in the late afternoon. Velma sits in a rocking chair while feeding Renee and Mr. and Mrs. Ness each take on of the boys. Lloyd helps out wherever he can. The ‘feeding by piece work’ cut down feeding time considerably." - caption with similar image published in The Fargo Forum, October 2, 1955, p. A-1., Title supplied by staff.

Triplet boys seated at lunch counter in the Great Northern Railroad Depot, Fargo, N.D. drinking soda out of bottles. The boys are dressed in winter coats with their hoods up. Two sugar dispensers and a cream pitcher are visible on the counter., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "A refresher at the end of the boys' windowshopping spree was enjoyed at the depot while they waited for their mother to get back from ther gift-buying 'expedition.' Mathew (left) drank his pop without a straw. John (center) took a good sip and then checked the level. David played coy and hid his bottle under the counter." - caption with photograph published in the Fargo Forum, December 5, 1954, page 16., Title supplied by staff.

Triplet boys, dressed in winter coats, standing in front of evergreen trees on sidewalk in Fargo, N.D., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "A Christmas tree display along the street was 'inspected' by the boys to see if the trees were as good as those in Wahpeton. Their decision was kept secret. The order here is (left to right); Mathew, David and John. All along the street and in stores, the boys, who are identical in looks and size, attracted attention as they walked hand in hand with their daddy. They admitted their visit to Fargo was a 'lot of fun.'" - caption with photograph published in the Fargo Forum, December 5, 1954, page 16., Title supplied by staff.

Vernelle Ness and daughter Velma seated in chairs holding two of his triplet infants. His young son Lloyd stands next to Vernelle, holding a baby bottle, and feeding the baby in his father's lap., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., Title supplied by staff.

Mathew Mess, Sr. standing in the toy section of Sears in Fargo, N.D. with his three triplet sons, Mathew, Jr., John, and David. One of the boys is seated on a tricycle. More tricycles and boxes of toys are visible in the background., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., Title supplied by staff., The Sears Roebuck and Co. department store was located in the Black Building, 114-118 Broadway, Fargo, N.D. in 1954.

Image of Vernelle and Bernadine Ness, with Bernadine seated in a chair holding their triplet babies, Renee, Robert and Royal., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Triplets At College: NDAC student Vernelle Ness of Bottineau, N.D., has more than a full college schedule - he has a full house, including 12-week-old triplets. Ness is shown above with his wife, holding Royal, Robert and Renee. The couple also have two other children." - caption with similar image published in The Fargo Forum, October 2, 1955, p. A-1., Title supplied by staff.

The Mess triplets, Mathew, Jr., John, and David are standing in the toy section of the Sears store in Fargo, N.D. They are looking at a toy barn, set atop a stack of boxes labeled "Compete Modern Farm Set". Other toys and children’s furniture are visible in the background., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., Title supplied by staff., The Sears Roebuck and Co. department store was located in the Black Building, 114-118 Broadway, Fargo, N.D. in 1954.

View showing Mathew Mess and his triplet sons walking on sidewalk, all dressed in winter coats. The view is looking north in the 200 and 300 blocks of Broadway. The store at left is Fargo Toggery, 228 Broadway, with men's ties and clothing displayed in the store windows., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., Title supplied by staff.

Mathew Mess, Sr., his wife Amy Mess, and triplet sons, David, John and Mathew, walking hand in hand away from the Great Northern Depot platform in Fargo, N.D, Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Hand in hand, the Mess family walked away from the Great Northern depot to start its shopping and windowshopping jaunt. Mess tugs on Mathew so he won't fall behind while John, David and Mrs. Mess concentrate their attention on the train that brought them to Fargo from their home in Wahpeton. From this point the family went different ways: Mrs. Mess took off after an armful of gifts. Mr. Mess took the boys on a tour of the stores." - caption with similar image published in The Fargo Forum, December 5, 1954, p. 16., Title supplied by staff.

Mathew Mess, Sr., his wife Amy Mess, and triplet sons, David, John and Mathew, walking hand in hand away from the Great Northern Depot platform in Fargo, N.D, Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Hand in hand, the Mess family walked away from the Great Northern depot to start its shopping and windowshopping jaunt. Mess tugs on Mathew so he won't fall behind while John, David and Mrs. Mess concentrate their attention on the train that brought them to Fargo from their home in Wahpeton. From this point the family went different ways: Mrs. Mess took off after an armful of gifts. Mr. Mess took the boys on a tour of the stores." - caption with image published in The Fargo Forum, December 5, 1954, p. 16., Title supplied by staff.

A fingerprint matching algorithm with a novel set of matching parameters based on core points and triangular descriptors is proposed to discover rarity in fingerprints. The algorithm uses a mathematical and statistical approach to discover rare features in fingerprints which provides scientific validation for both ten-print and latent fingerprint evidence. A feature is considered rare if it is statistically uncommon; that is, the rare feature should be unique among N (N>100) randomly sampled prints. A rare feature in a fingerprint has higher discriminatory power when it is identified in a print (latent or otherwise). In the case of latent fingerprint matching, the enhanced discriminatory power from the rare features can help in delivering a confident court judgment. In addition to mining the rare features, a parallel algorithm for fingerprint matching on GPUs is also proposed to reduce the run-time of fingerprint matching on larger databases. Results show that 1) matching algorithm is useful in eliminating false matches. 2) each of the 30 fingerprints randomly selected to mine rare features have a small set of highly distinctive statistically rare features some of whose occurrence is one in 1000 fingerprints. 3) the parallel algorithm implemented on GPUs for larger databases is around 40 times faster than the sequential algorithm.

A sharp increase in multiple births was observed worldwide in the latter decades of last century, primarily due to increased uptake of assisted reproductive technologies. In Australia, single embryo transfer policies have since reduced the number of treatment-related multiple births, however a trend towards delayed childbearing (which increases likelihood of twinning) has seen the rate of multiple births stabilise at 15.5 per 1000 births. One in 64 Australian babies is a twin. Mothers of infant twins and triplets are known to be at elevated risk of mental health problems and parenting stress during the postnatal period. Documentation of such problems has not prompted exploration of social conditions which may contribute to maternal distress, nor has it yet translated to measures to address demonstrated inequities. This is particularly unfortunate given the contributions of multiple birth families to medical knowledge through participation in twin studies. Understanding of the experiences and quality of life of mothers of older multiples is limited, and the concerns of the considerable proportion whose multiples have special needs (including developmental disabilities such as cerebral palsy) are unknown. These deficiencies were addressed using a mixed methods approach. First, a qualitative study using thematic analysis, was undertaken. Ten mothers of young multiples (aged 15 months to 6 years) with diverse special needs were recruited through The Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, and were individually interviewed. Mothers experienced chronic sorrow and disenfranchised losses. Most expressed feelings of guilt over unavoidable circumstances. Social isolation was common, and available social supports were perceived as inadequate. The results of this analysis informed the development of the MultiQOL study, the first cross-sectional community survey of quality of life concerns of parents of young multiple birth children, with and without special needs. Participants (n=12

In this paper we study the set T of triplets (E, A, B), where E pertenece {-1,1}n, A pertenece Zn and B is an integral antisymmetric matrix of order n, n pertenece Nu{0}. We define an equivalence relation on the set T and then we study properties of its equivalence classes. We describe a method to assign to each virtual knot diagram a triplet, and this is the motivation to study the set of triplets. As the assignation of a triplet depends on the virtual knot diagram, it is not a virtual knot invariant. But we try to solve this problem by using the equivalence relation defined on T., En este artículo estudiamos el conjunto T de las tripletas (E, A, B), donde E pertenece {—1,1}n, A pertenece Zn y B es una matriz antisimétrica de orden n con componentes enteras, n pertenece Nu{0}. Definimos una relación de equivalencia sobre el conjunto T y estudiamos propiedades de sus clases de equivalencia. La motivación para estudiar estas tripletas proviene de la teoría de los nudos virtuales, ya que mostramos cómo asignarle una tripleta a cada diagrama de un nudo virtual. Esta asignación depende del diagrama y en sí misma no es un invariante de nudos virtuales. La relación de equivalencia definida en T busca resolver este problema.

In order to deliver statistical and qualitative backing to latent fingerprint evidence, algorithms are proposed (1) to perform fingerprint matching to aid in quality assessment, and (2) to discover statistically rare features or patterns in fingerprints. These features would help establish an objective minimum-quality baseline for latent prints as well as aid in the latent examination process in making a matching comparison. The proposed methodologies use minutiae triplet-based features in a hierarchical fashion, where not only minutia points are used, but ridge information is used to help establish relations between minutiae. Results show (1) that our triplet-based descriptor is useful in eliminating false matches in the matching algorithm, and (2) that a set of distinctive features can be found that have sufficient discriminatory power to aid in quality assessment.

In this paper we study the set T of triplets (E, A, B), where E pertenece {-1,1}n, A pertenece Zn and B is an integral antisymmetric matrix of order n, n pertenece Nu{0}. We define an equivalence relation on the set T and then we study properties of its equivalence classes. We describe a method to assign to each virtual knot diagram a triplet, and this is the motivation to study the set of triplets. As the assignation of a triplet depends on the virtual knot diagram, it is not a virtual knot invariant. But we try to solve this problem by using the equivalence relation defined on T., En este artículo estudiamos el conjunto T de las tripletas (E, A, B), donde E pertenece {—1,1}n, A pertenece Zn y B es una matriz antisimétrica de orden n con componentes enteras, n pertenece Nu{0}. Definimos una relación de equivalencia sobre el conjunto T y estudiamos propiedades de sus clases de equivalencia. La motivación para estudiar estas tripletas proviene de la teoría de los nudos virtuales, ya que mostramos cómo asignarle una tripleta a cada diagrama de un nudo virtual. Esta asignación depende del diagrama y en sí misma no es un invariante de nudos virtuales. La relación de equivalencia definida en T busca resolver este problema.

Mathew and Amy Mess seated on a bench with their triplet sons; John, David and Mathew, Jr.. View taken inside the Great Northern Depot in Fargo, N.D. A lunch counter with several patrons and a waitress is visible in the background., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Waiting at the station for the train to take them home, the Mess family sat down for a much-needed rest after its fast trip through Fargo shopping district. David (left) still full of vim and vigor, had to check what was on the other side of the bench while Mathew and John played with toys they got free in a store. Mrs. Mess kept the gifts she bought hidden until just before everyone boarded the train and headed home." - caption with image published in The Fargo Forum, December 5, 1954, p. 16., Title supplied by staff.

Mess triplets standing behind a model train display in a store. The three boys are dressed in winter jackets., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Three pair of eyes- belonging to (left to right) David, Mathew and John - are focused on a model train, which John said was 'something like the one daddy works for.' Mess is a clerk for the Great Northern Railway. The triplets were wide-eyed in every store they visited but didn't cause Mess any trouble keeping them out of trouble, although the tree occasionally split up as each saw something different that caught his fancy." - caption with image published in The Fargo Forum, December 5, 1954, p. 16., Title supplied by staff., The model train may have been set up in the B. F. Goodrich store, located at 220 Broadway, based upon other negatives in the set.

Mess triplets dressed in winter jackets, peering throught the Gambles store window at a toy display. Visible is a doll seated at a small table with some toy dishes., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., Title supplied by staff., Gamble storein Fargo, N.D. was located at 202 Broadway in 1954.

Bernadine Ness standing over one of three cribs in a bedroom., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Nursery - Mrs. Ness adjusts a blanket over one of the triplets in the Ness nursery, which features three cribs. Parents and the two older children sleep in a second bedroom." - caption with image published in The Fargo Forum, October 2, 1955, p. B-10., Title supplied by staff.

Mr. and Mrs. Vernelle Ness and family seated in chairs, holding their triplet infants. Mr. and Mrs. Ness and their daughter Velma are feeding the triplets, while another son, Lloyd stands along side., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Family Affair - All members of the Ness family pitch in to feed the triplets in the late afternoon. Velma sits in a rocking chair while feeding Renee and Mr. and Mrs. Ness each take one of the boys. Lloyd helps out wherever he can. The 'feeding by piece work' cuts down feeding time considerably." - caption with similar image published in The Fargo Forum, October 2, 1955, p. B-10., Title supplied by staff.

Image of Vernelle and Bernadine Ness, with Bernadine seated in a chair holding their triplet babies, Renee, Robert and Royal., Acetate negatives; Safety film negatives, 6 x 6 cm., "Triplets At College: NDAC student Vernelle Ness of Bottineau, N.D., has more than a full college schedule - he has a full house, including 12-week-old triplets. Ness is shown above with his wife, holding Royal, Robert and Renee. The couple also have two other children." - caption with image published in The Fargo Forum, October 2, 1955, p. A-1., Title supplied by staff.

Phylogenetic networks provide a way to describe and visualize evolutionary histories that have undergone so-called reticulate evolutionary events such as recombination, hybridization or horizontal gene transfer. The level k of a network determines how non-treelike the evolution can be, with level-0 networks being trees. We study the problem of constructing level-k phylogenetic networks from triplets, i.e. phylogenetic trees for three leaves (taxa). We give, for each k, a level-k network that is uniquely defined by its triplets. We demonstrate the applicability of this result by using it to prove that (1) for all k of at least one it is NP-hard to construct a level-k network consistent with all input triplets, and (2) for all k it is NP-hard to construct a level-k network consistent with a maximum number of input triplets, even when the input is dense. As a response to this intractability we give an exact algorithm for constructing level-1 networks consistent with a maximum number of input triplets.

Jansson and Sung showed that, given a dense set of input triplets T (representing hypotheses about the local evolutionary relationships of triplets of taxa), it is possible to determine in polynomial time whether there exists a level-1 network consistent with T, and if so to construct such a network (Inferring a Level-1 Phylogenetic Network from a Dense Set of Rooted Triplets, Theoretical Computer Science, 363, pp. 60-68 (2006)). Here we extend this work by showing that this problem is even polynomial-time solvable for the construction of level-2 networks. This shows that, assuming density, it is tractable to construct plausible evolutionary histories from input triplets even when such histories are heavily non-tree like. This further strengthens the case for the use of triplet-based methods in the construction of phylogenetic networks. We also implemented the algorithm and applied it to yeast data.

OBJECTIVE To compare the perinatal characteristics, neonatal morbidity and mortality of preterm singletons, twins and triplets born at 22-31 weeks' gestation and admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory between 1994 and 2005. METHODS Perinatal characteristics and neonatal outcome data were obtained from the regional NICUS data collection to test for a priori hypothesis. The 10 068 very premature infants studied included 7304 (72.5%) singletons, 2444 (24.2%) twins and 320 (3.2%) triplets. RESULTS Assisted conception was associated with a higher maternal age and increased twins and triplets admissions into NICU than spontaneous conceptions (twins OR 6.9, 95% CI 6.1 to 8.0; and triplets OR 35.6, 95% CI 27.6 to 45.8). Major neonatal morbidities were similar between the three groups of singletons, twins or triplets. While twins of 22-27 weeks' gestation (adjusted OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.72) had higher mortality compared with singletons, mortality only diverged below 24 weeks' gestation. Mortality was predicted by decreasing gestational age, male gender and lack of antenatal steroids, whereas assisted conception was protective against mortality (adjusted OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.86). CONCLUSIONS Assisted conception contributed to higher very premature NICU admissions of twins and triplets. Preterm twins at the very extreme of viability had higher mortality compared with singletons. The protective effect of assisted conception against mortality requires further research.

Phylogenetic networks provide a way to describe and visualize evolutionary histories that have undergone so-called reticulate evolutionary events such as recombination, hybridization or horizontal gene transfer. The level k of a network determines how non-treelike the evolution can be, with level-0 networks being trees. We study the problem of constructing level-k phylogenetic networks from triplets, i.e. phylogenetic trees for three leaves (taxa). We give, for each k, a level-k network that is uniquely defined by its triplets. We demonstrate the applicability of this result by using it to prove that (1) for all k of at least one it is NP-hard to construct a level-k network consistent with all input triplets, and (2) for all k it is NP-hard to construct a level-k network consistent with a maximum number of input triplets, even when the input is dense. As a response to this intractability we give an exact algorithm for constructing level-1 networks consistent with a maximum number of input triplets.

Jansson and Sung showed that, given a dense set of input triplets T (representing hypotheses about the local evolutionary relationships of triplets of taxa), it is possible to determine in polynomial time whether there exists a level-1 network consistent with T, and if so to construct such a network (Inferring a Level-1 Phylogenetic Network from a Dense Set of Rooted Triplets, Theoretical Computer Science, 363, pp. 60-68 (2006)). Here we extend this work by showing that this problem is even polynomial-time solvable for the construction of level-2 networks. This shows that, assuming density, it is tractable to construct plausible evolutionary histories from input triplets even when such histories are heavily non-tree like. This further strengthens the case for the use of triplet-based methods in the construction of phylogenetic networks. We also implemented the algorithm and applied it to yeast data.

Jansson and Sung showed that, given a dense set of input triplets T (representing hypotheses about the local evolutionary relationships of triplets of taxa), it is possible to determine in polynomial time whether there exists a level-1 network consistent with T, and if so to construct such a network [18]. Here we extend this work by showing that this problem is even polynomial-time solvable for the construction of level-2 networks. This shows that, assuming density, it is tractable to construct plausible evolutionary histories from input triplets even when such histories are heavily non-tree like. This further strengthens the case for the use of triplet-based methods in the construction of phylogenetic networks. We also implemented the algorithm and applied it to yeast data.

Phylogenetic networks provide a way to describe and visualize evolutionary histories that have undergone so-called reticulate evolutionary events such as recombination, hybridization or horizontal gene transfer. The level k of a network determines how non-treelike the evolution can be, with level-0 networks being trees. We study the problem of constructing level-k phylogenetic networks from triplets, i.e. phylogenetic trees for three leaves (taxa). We give, for each k, a level-k network that is uniquely defined by its triplets. We demonstrate the applicability of this result by using it to prove that (1) for all k of at least one it is NP-hard to construct a level-k network consistent with all input triplets, and (2) for all k it is NP-hard to construct a level-k network consistent with a maximum number of input triplets, even when

Phylogenetic networks provide a way to describe and visualize evolutionary histories that have undergone so-called reticulate evolutionary events such as recombination, hybridization or horizontal gene transfer. The level k of a network determines how non-treelike the evolution can be, with level-0 networks being trees. We study the problem of constructing level-k phylogenetic networks from triplets, i.e. phylogenetic trees for three leaves (taxa). We give, for each k, a level-k network that is uniquely defined by its triplets. We demonstrate the applicability of this result by using it to prove that (1) for all k of at least one it is NP-hard to construct a level-k network consistent with all input triplets, and (2) for all k it is NP-hard to construct a level-k network consistent with a maximum number of input triplets, even when the input is dense. As a response to this intractability we give an exact algorithm for constructing level-1 networks consistent with a maximum number of input triplets.

Jansson and Sung showed that, given a dense set of input triplets T (representing hypotheses about the local evolutionary relationships of triplets of taxa), it is possible to determine in polynomial time whether there exists a level-1 network consistent with T, and if so to construct such a network [18]. Here we extend this work by showing that this problem is even polynomial-time solvable for the construction of level-2 networks. This shows that, assuming density, it is tractable to construct plausible evolutionary histories from input triplets even when such histories are heavily non-tree like. This further strengthens the case for the use of triplet-based methods in the construction of phylogenetic networks. We also implemented the algorithm and applied it to yeast data.

Secrecy and anonymity related to heterologous assisted reproduction may hide basic newborn data to neonatologists. Secrecy and anonymity are discussed in view of their possible consequences on relational dynamics and on developmental psychology. Nevertheless, they can also involve the offspring's genetic status regarding inheritable diseases. International guidelines have been recently published on this topic. Because no guidelines are 'ideal' unfortunate and possibly dramatic consequences can occur. We aimed to embark on a debate about this matter starting with a real clinical experience. In our case a rarely fatal but widespread disease, together with the lack of knowledge about parental status led, in a fast succession of clinical events, to the unavoidable insurgence of kernicterus. © 2008 Informa UK Ltd.

Fragile X Syndrome is the first cause of inherited mental retardation; this disease is due to the transcriptional silence of FMR-1gene by metilation of the FMR-1 gene located in q27.3 region of X chromosome, at time is successful of expansion of CGG repeatin 5 ́untranslated region in the first exon of the gen. Because the cytogenetics methodologies can diagnostic only the 5% of thediseased people, in this work we use molecular techniques to determinate the level of expansion of the CGG trinucleotide in 13citizen of Armenia (Colombia) whit the phenotypic characteristics of the syndrome and his respective mothers. For each patientwe do the DNA extraction by the salting out technique and the amplification of the region with the CGG repetition with specificsprimers. Eight of 13 studied patients (62%) presented more that 50 CGG repetitions, that dressed how permutation carriers,while the six rested showed expansion in the normal range; in five of nine cases the mothers-son the expansions was normal. Thisresults let to extend the date base for Colombia related with the incidence of the syndrome and additionally is implemented anefficacy diagnostic tool for who showed phenotypic characteristics of the Fragile X Syndrome., El Síndrome del X Frágil es la primera causa de retraso mental hereditario, la enfermedad es causada por el silenciamientotranscripcional inducido por la metilación del gen FMR-1 ubicado en la región q27.3 del cromosoma X, que a su vez es el resultadode la expansión de una repetición CGG en la región 5’ no traducida en el primer exón del gen. Dado que las metodologíascitogenéticas sólo permiten diagnosticar el 5% de las personas afectadas, en este trabajo se implementó el uso de técnicasmoleculares para determinar el nivel de expansión del trinucleótido CGG en 13 individuos de la ciudad de Armenia (Colombia) quepresentan características fenotípicas del síndrome y en algunas de sus respectivas madres. Para cada individuo se realizó laextracción del ADN mediante la técnica de desalamiento y se realizó la amplificación de la región portadora de la repetición CGGen el gen FMR-1 utilizando iniciadores específicos. Ocho de los 13 individuos estudiados (62% de la muestra) presentaron másde 50 repeticiones CGG, caracterizándolos como portadores de premutación mientras que los seis restantes presentaron expan-sión del trinucleótido en el rango normal; en cinco de nueve casos madre-hijo el número de repeticiones se mantuvo estable. Estosresultados permiten ampliar la base de datos para Colombia relacionada con la incidencia de este síndrome y adicionalmente se haimplementado una herramienta de diagnóstico molecular eficaz para quienes presentan las características fenotípicas del síndromedel X – Frágil.

A 27-year-old caucasian female with classical galactosaemia due to Q188R homozygous mutation is reported. At 18 years she had triplets and at 23 years a further pregnancy. All infants are well.

A 27-year-old caucasian female with classical galactosaemia due to Q188R homozygous mutation is reported. At 18 years she had triplets and at 23 years a further pregnancy. All infants are well.