The desulphurised byproducts is a solid castoff procreant process of burn coal desulfurize. In order to apply the desulphurised byproducts as a resource,the agriculture use was studied in this paper. The pot expcrimert was condncted on acid soils and the heavy metal concentration of crop was examined. (1) The desulphurised products are rich in Ca,S,B,Si,Mo e t c.,Which are insufficing generally in red soils. (2) Applying the desulphurised products properly to red soil derived from different parent material was effective in promoting the growth and improving the quality of crop. The physical and chemical properties of soil were also effectively improved. (3) The content of heavy metal such as Pb, Cd, Cr, As, Se, Ni, Cu e t c. in desulphurised products was below the national limit, thus if applying the desulphurised products properly to the soil , the content of heavy metals in the first season crop was below the limit for nuisanceless food.


ABSTRACT To study the crashworthiness of single- and multi-cell, square structures under axial loads, the response surface models of these structures were established separately by using the polynomial response surface method (PRSM). The models describe the response surfaces of specific energy absorption (SEA), peak crushing force Fmax and mean crushing force Favg under the variation of the side-length a, wall thickness t and number of cells N in the structure. The results showed that for the square thin-walled structures with the same N, the SEA basically increases with wall thickness t and decreases with side-length a; Fmax increases with t and a, while Favg increases with t but remained unchanged with a. Besides, under the same dimensional parameters (identical a and t), the larger the value of N, the larger the values of SEA, Fmax and Favg. When other parameters are the same, with the progress of the crushing distance in a collision, structures with large side-length a, wall thickness t and number of cells N are subjected to large crushing forces and therefore the kinetic energy generated in the collision, and absorbed by these structures, is large; however, for parameters t and N, the crushing force and absorption energy change only slightly with a.


We show that the kernel of the monodromy representation for hypersurfaces of degree d and dimension n is large for d at least three with the exception of the cases (d,n) = (3,0) and (3,1). For these the kernel is finite. By "large" we mean a group that admits a homomorphism to a semisimple Lie group of noncompact type with Zariski-dense image. By the Tits alternative a large group contains a free subgroup of rank two.


Three types of packaging materials i.e., high density polyethylene (143 g/m2HDP), 0.1-mm thick Kraft paper bags and woven polyethylene (WP) were used in combination with different temperature storage (ambient temperature 25±3 o C, 1012 o C and 5-6 o C in refrigerator) during 2 storage periods of 6 and 12 months. The interaction effect of different temperature and storage package types showed significant differences in associated seed borne fungi and chemical composition of the stored seed compared with the seeds in the control treatment stored at ambient temperature determined at zero time of storage. Associated fungi detected with sorghum seed by seed health test methods were Fusarium verticillioides, F. semitectum, F. oxysporium, Curvularia lunata, Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Penicillium sp, Alternaria solani, A. alternata, Bipolaris sorghicola, Drechslera oryzae and Epicoccum nigrum. Results indicated that the highest frequency of seed borne fungi associated with sorghum seed was recorded for samples stored in high density polyethylene (HDP) package under room temperature condition after 6 months followed by samples stored in Kraft paper package, the total seed borne count numbers were 129 and 109.33, respectively, while, storage in woven polyethylene (WP) package had the lowest total count (78.67) of seed borne fungi. As regard to sorghum seeds chemical component, data of storage experiments showed that storage at room temperature generally resulted in reduction of crude fiber, ash, oil, crude protein, germination percentage and oil quality while it showed increase of free fatty acid and acidic value especially in seed stored in HDP package. The weight of 100 kernels were also decreased and total infection count were increased under storage at room temperature specially with using HDP package type compared with control treatment (at zero time storage). In brief, the storage of sorghum seeds in woven polyethylene packages type under low temperature (5-6 o C) was very suitable and led to reduction of storage fungi and to keep seed chemical components and oil quality of the seeds. Therefore, the need to maintain the temperature, relative humidity and type of storage package is important criteria of storage.


We present Gaalop (Geometric algebra algorithms optimizer), our tool for high performance computing based on Conformal Geometric Algebra (GA). The main goal of Gaalop is to realize implementations that are most likely faster than conventional solutions. We describe the concepts, the state-of-the-art as well as the future perspectives of Gaalop dealing with optimized software implementations, hardware implementations as well as mixed solutions.


A new seismic trace interpolation method based on adaptive prediction filters (PF) is introduced. In order to estimate local PFs, the contribution of adjacent windows of data to the process of local PF estimation is reduced via the introduction of a forgetting factor. Using a Recursive Least Square (RLS) algorithm, the problem of estimating PFs for each window of data is avoided and the local PF for a current data window is updated from available local PFs computed from adjacent windows. Finally, local PFs computed at low frequencies are used to interpolate data at high frequencies using Spitz reconstruction algorithm (1991). We provide synthetic and real data examples to examine the performance of the proposed adaptive PF interpolation algorithm.


Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack causes major impact on end systems by consuming their bandwidth and resources. DoS attack traffic behavior is completely different from the legitimate network traffic behavior so this paper presents a survey on DoS attack detection system using various methods. Later allowing only the normal traffic to enter the network and blocking the illegitimate traffic. It becomes necessary for developers and researchers to understand behaviour of the DoS attack because it affects the target network without any advance warning. DOS attacks typically aim services that are hosted on high-profile web servers such as card payment gateways and domain name servers.


The degradation of mechanical properties of materials is essentially related to microstructural changes under service loadings, while the inhomogeneous degradation behaviors along welded joints are not well understood. In the present work, microstructural evolution under low-cycle fatigue in base metal (BM) and weld metal (WM) of NiCrMoV steel welded joints were investigated by miniature tensile tests and microstructural observations. Results showed that both the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the BM and WM decreased after low-cycle fatigue tests, which were attributed to the reduction of dislocation density and formation of low-energy structures. However, the microstructural evolution mechanisms in BM and WM under the same cyclic loadings were different, i.e., the decrease of dislocation density in BM was attributed to the dislocation pile-ups along the grain boundaries, dislocation tangles around the carbides at the lower strain amplitudes (±0.3% or ±0.5%). Additionally, when the strain amplitude was ±8%, the dislocation density was further decreased by the formation of subgrains in BM. For WM, the dislocation density decreased with the increase of strain amplitude, which was mainly caused by the dislocation pile-ups along the grain boundaries and the formation of subgrains.


This paper introduces a representation of an integrated vector time series in which the coefficient of multiple correlation computed from the long-run covariance matrix of the innovation sequences is a primitive parameter of the model. Based on this representation, we propose a notion of near cointegration, which helps bridging the gap between the polar cases of spurious regression and cointegration. Two applications of the model of near cointegration are provided. As a first application, the properties of conventional cointegration methods under near cointegration are characterized, hereby investigating the robustness of cointegration methods. Secondly, we illustrate how to obtain local power functions of cointegration tests that take cointegration as the null hypothesis.


In the last decades, Intelligent Transportation System become essential for urban traffic management all over the world. In this context, we are working on the first Moroccan intelligent transport system called MoVITS based on image processing and machine learning techniques. The development of an efficient system for Moroccan traffic faces many challenges such as bad driving behavior, the huge volume and the diversity of the traffic. In this paper, we will present a three-layers architecture of the proposed system de-scribing the main functionalities such as vehicle detection, tracking, speed estimation, color and type recognition, license plate recognition and road violation detection.


This paper analyzes social aspects of physical training – in other words, ways of educating the physique in distinct social environments – on the transition from the classic phase of the recent past to the social configurations that now exist. The idea will always focus on teachings and strategies concerning what constitutes the "healthy individual" and on interfaces that the theory presented has established or will establish with Physical Education.


Breastfeeding practices play an important role in reducing child mortality and morbidity. This study was aimed to describe the breastfeeding practices prevalent in urban slum area. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2011 to December 2011 in slum region catering urban health training center (UHC) that is attached to a government medical college, Solapur, Maharashtra. All mothers having child 0 to 24 months included in the study, 594 women were identified using universal sampling (inclusion and exclusion criteria were used) and data was collected using pretested questionnaire on breastfeeding practices. Dependent variable was breastfeeding practices including exclusive breastfeeding. Analysis was done with SPSS version 16. It was found that More than half (70.2%) infants were exclusively breast fed (EBF) up to six months of age. Pre-lacteal feeds were given to 44.9% infants while colostrum was not given to 16.5% infants. Practice of EBF was found to be significantly associated with age of mother, type of family and education of mother.This study emphasizes the need for breastfeeding intervention programs especially forthe mother during antenatal and postnatal check-ups and practices like discarding the colostrum and pre-lacteal feed, late initiation of breastfeeding are still widely prevalent and need to be addressed.


The utility model discloses a three-layer protective case, which has waterproof, dustproof, anti-pollution and anti-collision protection functions for sensitive electronic devices. In an embodiment, the protective case is provided with an inner flexible thin-film layer so as to protect multiple portions of an electronic device and realize interaction of a keyboard, buttons and other interactive components of the electronic device for users, protective hard casings are in close fit on the thin film and provide extra sealing effect and rigidity for the protective case, and a flexible buffer layer is arranged on the hard casings, clings to the same, is capable of preventing moisture, dust and pollutants entering the hard casings, has a buffering effect, and is favorable for realizing functions of some components on the electronic device. In another embodiment, a touch screen cover with a film or without a film can be used on other portions of the electronic device.


________________________________________________ IV 1. Chapter 1: Introduction ______________________________________ 1 1.1 Aging ___________________________________________________ 4 1.1.1 Definition, causes and interventions _________________________ 4 1.1.2 Aging in humans ________________________________________ 6 1.1.3 Yeast as a model of aging _________________________________ 7 1.2 Yeast stationary phase ___________________________________ 10 1.2.1 Characteristics of stationary-phase yeast cells _________________ 10 1.2.2. Carbon metabolism: fermentation and respiration _____________ 16 1.3 Regulation of yeast chronological aging __________________ 21 1.3.1 TORC1/Sch9 and Ras/PKA pathways _______________________ 21 1.3.2. Sirtuins ______________________________________________ 23 1.3.3 Calorie restriction ______________________________________ 30 1.4 Scope of this thesis ______________________________________ 33 1.5 References _____________________________________________ 34 2. Chapter 2: Paper I Ethanol and acetate acting as carbon/energy sources negatively affect yeast chronological aging_______________________________________36 2.1 Abstract __________________________________________________ 47 2.2 Introduction _______________________________________________ 48


Students of everyday life are making a significant contribution to understanding the manner in which persons carry out their daily activities. However, they have overlooked the impact of bureaucratic organizations on persons in various social settings. Based upon intensive in-depth interviews of sixty Mexican American elderly in Dallas, Texas, the research revealed numerous barriers to their utilization of health and social services and demonstrates why one must consider carefully how health and social service organizations affect the lives of elderly Mexican Americans. One must also recognize that the quality of life of Mexican American elders can be improved by increasing their knowledge of how formal organizations function. *I am grateful to several organizations and individuals for assistance in carrying out this research project. The University of North Texas provided a faculty research grant (1989-1990) that supported the preliminary work. Subsequent support was provided by a Postdoctoral Fellowship of the 1991 Technical Assistance Program of the Gerontological Society of America under a grant from the Administration on Aging (award number 90AM037802), Washington, DC, and additional funds from the Area 7 Office of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). Among the individuals to whom I am indebted are Joan Mahon and Felicitas Hernandez, La Voz del Anciano in Dallas; John P. Luby, Michael Donnelly and Beedie Cramer of the AARP Area 7 Office; and Hiram Friedsam, Professor Emeritus at the University of North Texas. These organizations and individuals are not responsible for the views set forth in this article. Above all, I want to thank the sixty elderly Mexican Americans in Dallas who were my respondents.


Both Belgian Landyace and Pietvain boars were randomly used by A.I. on Fren<:h Landrace x Large White sows of commercial farms. Females and castrates from resultant litters were sent to an experimental station where they were fed ad libitum (test starting at 30 kg) and slaughtered at about 100 kg. Data were recorded on 164 pigs from 2r litters sired by rz Belgian La7zdvace boars (XLB) and on 152 pigs from 22 litters sired by 5 Pietrain boars (XPP). Daily feed consumption was io p. 100 (P < o.oor) higher in XLB pigs which excel XI'P pigs in average daily gain on test ; however an interaction sex x breeding group (P < 0.01) was evidenced for the latter trait : the advantage of XLB was larger in barrows (I I I g) than in gilts (57 g). The same interaction tends to exist for food conversion (I' < o.15) 3.r6 ws 3.37 in barrows, 3.z3 vs 3.27 in gilts for XLB and XPP groups, respectively. No significant difference between breeding groups was found in dressing out percentage, average backfat thickness, weight of backfat and weight of ham; however XPP pigs had a shorter carcass (I' < 0.001), a higher weight of loin (P < 0.001) and a lower weight of leaf fat (P < 0.05). A slight superiority of XLB pigs as compared to XPP pigs was found with respect to meat quality, assessed 24 hours post movtem. The 3-way cross with Belgian Landrace boars showed a mean advantage of about rr.5 F per pig on the 3-way cross with Pietvain boars in overall economic merit but due to the interaction sex x breeding group for fattening cost, the difference was larger in barrows (17.5 F) than in gilts (5-5 1!).


Objective To study prognosis and grading of somatosensory evoked potential(SEP)in long-term unconscious patients after severe traumatic brain injury(TBI).Methods Five prognostic factors including age,sex,injury mechanism,history of temporal craniotomy and SEP grading were selected and analyzed in 47 patients after severe TBI with a duration of unconsciousness longer than two weeks.The prognosis was judged by Glasgow Outcome Scale.Results Prognosis was closely associated with SEP grading(P=0.024).The accuracy of SEP in assessing the prognosis was 91.5%.About 95%-100% of patients with SEP at grade Ⅲ-Ⅲ ended up with severe disability,persistent vegetative state or death.However,43.75% of patients with SEP at grade Ⅰ had good prognoses.Conclusions The SEP grading can objectively and accurately evaluate patients' prognosis and demonstrate the brain function.

Key words:
Brain injuries; Consciousness disorders; Evoked potentials,somatosensory; Prognosis


Background: Femoral 3-in-1 block is one of the most effective methods in cases of hip nailing surgery because of its ease, low cost, and fewer complications. This study aims to evaluate the effect of adding dexamethasone to peripheral nerve block solution. Methods: Forty-four ASA (I,II & III) patients aged between 50-80 years, scheduled for elective hipnailing surgery who met inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled in this double blind randomized controlled trial. Patients were allocated into two groups randomly; at the end of the surgery, femoral 3-in-1 nerve block was performed with 40 ml of bupivacaine 0.25% solution with or without 8 mg dexamethasone. Pain score was measured for 24 hours. Original Research Article Amini et al.; JAMMR, 32(6): 40-46, 2020; Article no.JAMMR.54766 41 Results: We found no significant difference in pain intensity scores until hour 0.5 and the scores were below 1. Thereafter, the VAS scores increased, yet it remained below 3 in the first 12 postoperative hours. Morphine was administered during hours 12-24 in both groups, when VAS scores reached to about 4. The total amount of morphine consumption was a little lower in the case group, although the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Adding dexamethasone to bupivacaine 0.25% for 3-in-1 block has no more benefit than bupivacaine 0.25% alone for acute postoperative pain management after elective hip nailing surgery.


Abstract The study of gangs corresponds well with life course perspectives of crime as the onset, persistence, and desistance from crime parallel the stages of gang membership. This literature commonly draws on turning points to explain the onset and desistance from criminal behavior, which are often synonymous with life transitions such as marriage, military duty, employment –even gang membership itself. In this study we draw on life course perspectives to examine the impact of a specific life transition that is common during adolescence, school transitions, on a youth's gang status as well as variables associated with a turning point in the life course. Specifically, we focus on two competing relationships that school mobility can serve as the impetus for joining a gang, or alternatively, act as a 'hook for change' and facilitate gang leaving. We use a mixed-methods approach by first drawing on qualitative data that examined desisted gang members and their interpretation of their school transition experiences. Second, consistent with a grounded theory approach, we examined these relationships quantitatively using a panel study of youth followed over a five-year period.


Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) is the most destructive wheat (Tritlcum aestivum L.) disease in western Kansas. Various levels of resistance to WSMV are found in wheat. Our objective was to develop a reliable field screening procedure that would identify the level of resistance in large numbers of breeding lines. WSMV and it's vector, the wheat curl mite (Erioohves tulipae Keifer), were allowed to increase in strips of wheat planted in late August or early September. Experimental lines were planted in short rows between the strips of early planted wheat in December or January. The early planted wheat was killed with a V-blade in early March, which forced the mites to leave and infest the recently emerged winter planting. This procedure has resulted in nearly 100% infection of susceptible lines in tests from 1988 to 1990. Moderate and high levels of resistance were identified. This procedure takes advantage of larger mite populations in the spring as compared to the fall, and because plants are still small when infected, severe WSMV symptoms develop.


The final electron tube poweramplifier is the chief part of TV transmitter.90 percent maintenance cost of TV transmitter is used for service of the electron tube.The quality of signal is closely related to the state of the final power amplifier.Keeping the electron tube amplifier in a good state can reduce the maintenance costs,prolong TV transmitter lifetime,promote the quality of the screen,at the same time,it can also secure the safety of the broadcasting.It is essential that we should use and maintain this instrument scientifically.


The ballistospore-forming yeast Tilletiopsis was recovered from powdery mildew-infected leaves of 22 plant species in the lower Fraser Valley of British Columbia, Canada, during 1990-1992. A semiselective medium, comprised of corn meal agar, ampicillin (100 μg/ml), dichloran (10 μg/ml), and rose bengal (20 μg/ml), was developed to enhance recovery of Tilletiopsis isolates from nature. Among a total of 143 isolates, four species-T. washingtonensis, T. minor, T. pallescens, and T. albescens-were recovered in decreasing frequencies. Two isolates, one of T. pallescens and one of T. washingtonensis, were evaluated for their growth response to environmental factors and efficacy in reducing powdery mildew growth and sporulation [...]


Proline-catalysed direct asymmetric carbon-carbon bond formation reaction of polyfluoroalkylated aldimines with acetone afforded the corresponding beta-(p-methoxyphenyl)amino-beta-polyfluoroalkyl ketones in high enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee).


This paper aims to introduce a comparative study for the E-Bayesian criteria with three various Bayesian approaches; Bayesian, hierarchical Bayesian and empirical Bayesian. This study is concerned to estimate the shape parameter and the hazard function of the Gompertz distribution based on type-II censoring. All estimators are obtained under symmetric loss function [squared error loss (SELF))] and three different asymmetric loss functions [quadratic loss function (QLF), entropy loss function (ELF) and LINEX loss function (LLF)]. Comparisons among all estimators are achieved in terms of mean square error (MSE) via Monte Carlo simulation.


First Solar is the global leader in PV module manufacturing, at <$1.00/W. Grid parity will require a module cost/W 30lower. This talk will outline the pathway to $0.65/W and parity with fossil fuels. Article not available.


By survey of SEAM,summarized the connotation of surface integrity of workpieces is researched.By analyzing the change of the surface morphology,microcosmic crack and mechanical performance,a good processing condition with a good technological characteristic for SEAM was gradually worked out.Shortcomings in practical manufacture of work media and smoke dust by current SEAM machine are analyzed,and clarified in depth research of its importance.


To date, the Malaysian government has implemented numerous strategies to encourage entrepreneurial activities among university graduates, aiming to equip them with the necessary knowledge, skills, and mindset to establish competitive and viable businesses. However, the number of graduates embarking on entrepreneurship remains low, despite the implementation of various efforts as they considered it a waste of time. Given the growing unemployment rate in the nation due to the unpromising economic situation in the post-COVID-19 era, it is essential to foster entrepreneurial activities among the undergraduate students. In light of this, the purpose of this study was to assess students' knowledge and tolerance of entrepreneurship-related issues in relation to their own entrepreneurial interests and traits. Data was gathered from the self-administered questionnaires distributed to students enrolled in the Diploma in Plantation and Agrotechnology and Diploma in Business Administration programs. A total of 252 undergraduate students responded to the survey. The results indicated a significant positive relationship between self-assessed knowledge and the level of acceptance of entrepreneurship-related issues, which in turn influenced students' entrepreneurial interests and traits. The top entrepreneurial interests and traits possessed by the students were found to be open-mindedness, working well with others, self-motivation, and competitiveness. This information is expected to be useful for the university in developing entrepreneurship programs, with the ultimate aim of providing additional entrepreneurial education and promoting students to venture out and pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. Future research could explore any similarities or differences in entrepreneurial interests and traits among students in other programs which would provide valuable insights to the government and university.


After a systematic research on the temperature,time and liquor ratio of silk degummingin tap water at high temperature and under high pressure,a new process,with high efficiency,nocontamination and low energy usage, was obtained. The optimum procedure is conducted at 125℃ for30min with the material to liquor ration at 1∶30.And the quality of product was enhanced aftertreatment.


As already pointed out by a constantly growing literature, explainability in recommender systems field is a key aspect to increase users' satisfaction. With the increase of user generated content, tags have proven to be highly relevant when it comes to describe either users or items. A number of strategies that rely on tags have been proposed, yet, many of these algorithms exploit the frequency of user-tags interactions to gain information. We argue that a pure frequentist description might lack of specificity to grasp user's peculiar tastes. Therefore, we propose a novel approach based on game theory that tries to find the best trade-off between generality and detailing. The identified user's description can be used to keep her in the loop and allows the user to have control over system's knowledge. Additionally, we propose a user interface that embeds the proposed user's description and it can be used by the user herself to guide her catalogue's exploration toward novel and serendipitous items.


BACKGROUND Epoprostenol (Flolan), an inhalational epoprostenol vasodilator, increases pulmonary arterial flow and decreases pulmonary pressures, thereby improving gas exchange and arterial oxygenation. We evaluated the benefits of inhaled epoprostenol as a less expensive alternative to nitric oxide in ventilated surgical intensive care patients with severe hypoxemia. METHODS After institutional review board approval was obtained, the records of mechanically ventilated surgical intensive care unit patients who received epoprostenol as a therapy for severe hypoxia (SaO2 < 90%) in a tertiary care referral center were retrospectively reviewed. Initial PaO2/FIO2 (P/F) ratio and oxygen saturation were compared with values at 12 and 48 hours after the administration of epoprostenol. One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance compared improvements in oxygenation. Further subgroup analyses evaluated differences among trauma, nontrauma patient subgroups, time to initiation of epoprostenol, and age. RESULTS During a 20 month-interval beginning February 2009, 36 patients (23 trauma and 13 nontrauma; age, 15–80 years) were treated. Epoprostenol significantly improved both P/F ratio and oxygen saturation in both trauma and nontrauma patients. There was no difference between subgroups. Larger improvements in P/F ratio were seen when epoprostenol was started within 7 days. Response between age groups did not differ significantly. Subgroup analysis of mortality (trauma, 60.9% vs. nontrauma, 61.5%) failed to show any differences. CONCLUSION Treatment with inhaled epoprostenol improved gas exchange in severely hypoxemic surgical patients. Earlier intervention (within 7 days of intubation) was more efficacious at improving oxygenation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic study, level IV.


We propose a wafer-scale technique for nanostructure formation inside vertically oriented, through-membrane nano-pores. It uses 50 nm monocrystalline silicon pillars as a mold, embedded in a silicon nitride membrane formed in an innovative step. The proposed technique paves the way towards advanced functionalization of parallel oriented nano-pores for actuation, sensing, filtering/trapping purposes.


2,4-Diaminophenoxyethanol Dihydrochloride (2,4-DAPE) i s an aromatic amine that i s used as a coupler in permanent (oxidative) hair dyes at concentrations up to 1 .O%. 2,4-DAPE was slightly toxic in rats and mice. No significant adverse changes were observed in a subchronic toxicity test. 2,4-DAPE was practically nonirritating when a 4% aqueous solution was instilled into the conjunctival sacs of the eyes of rabbits. 2,4-DAPE was slightly irritating to the skin of rabbits when tested at a concentration of 4.0%. Based on animal studies, 2,4-DAPE was judged to produce low level sensitization in humans. Coal tar hair dyes, including those containing 2,4-DAPE, are exempt from the principal adulteration provision and the color additive provisions in Sections 601 and 706 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938 when the label bears a caution statement and patch test instructions for determining whether the product causes skin irritation. No teratogenic effects were observed due to administration of 2,4-DAPE. No mutagenic activity attributable to 2,4-DAPE was observed in 22 mutagenic studies. However, in a few studies, a marginal mutagenic response was reported. In two oral carcinogenic studies, one in which mice were dosed with 0.04 and 0.07% 2,4-DAPE and the second in which rats were dosed with 0.05 and 1.0% 2,4-DAPE, no carcinogenic effects were produced. On the basis of the data presented in this report, it i s concluded that 2,4Diaminophenoxyethanol Dihydrochloride is safe as a cosmetic ingredient in the present practices of use and concentration.


Illustrations Preface Introduction: Rediscovering Pearl S. Buck by Peter Conn Keynote Adress: Pearl S. Buck and the American Quest for China by James C. Thomson, Jr. Historical Perspectives The Good Earth, Revolution, and the American Raj in China by Charles W. Hayford Pearl S. Buck in Search of America by David D. Buck Pearl S. Buck and American Women's History by John d'Entremont Pearl S. Buck's Reception in China Reconsidered by Liu Haiping Humanitarian Perspectives East/West Ties: Amerasian Children and the Work of the Pearl S. Buck Foundation by Grace C.K. Sum Welcome House: A Forty-Year History by Peter Conn Buck's Writings on Handicapped Children by Deborah Clement Raessler Literary Perspectives Who's Afraid of Pearl S. Buck? by Jane M. Rabb Pearl S. Buck and American Literary Culture by Peter Conn Pearl S. Buck's The Good Earth: The Novel as Epic by Pradyumna S. Chauhan Scripting The Good Earth: Versions of the Novel for the Screen by James L. Hoban, Jr. Selected Bibliography Index Illustrations Nobel Prize Portrait Senior College Portrait Commemorative Stamp White House Gala With Amerasian Children At Her Desk MGM's The Good Earth


Pregnant Arctic hares were captured on Brunette Island (in Newfoundland and Labrador) and kept in captivity, where the young were raised before being released into former Arctic hare range in southern Newfoundland.


In this paper, a method for power losses evaluation in single phase transformers is presented. This research focuses on the transformer losses under nonlinear loads with a sinusoidal supply voltage. A practical approach is proposed which allows for the observation of harmonics. The total harmonic distortion and losses were analyzed and shown. Moreover, the relationship between transformer losses and harmonics are reported. The Experimental results show that the proposed method can determine the effects of harmonic components on transformer losses.


AbstractPart of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD's) mission is to create quality affordable homes for all. To accomplish this mission, HUD must define quality and must develop a method for detecting physically inadequate housing units. In the past, researchers have relied on summary indicators of inadequacy provided on the American Housing Survey (AHS) public use data file. These measures are designed by HUD and are used by HUD for HUD purposes. This article reexamines these standard indicators in a hedonic regression framework, using AHS data to develop models that estimate house values and rent. The hedonic models are then used to define a new indicator of physical inadequacy that has a statistically significant negative effect on house values and rents, in contrast to the traditional indicators that are not statistically significant and often have the wrong sign. The new indicator indentifies a substantially larger number of housing units in the United States as being physically inadequate, especially single-family units, suggesting that the need for housing assistance is more widespread than is generally recognized. Housing units identified as inadequate under this new criterion are concentrated in the older stock and are disproportionately occupied by households with children. The new criterion also identifies a substantial number of nonseasonal, vacant single-family housing units as being physically inadequate, implying that the inventory of existing homes on the market may be effectively overstated. The statistical models used to derive these results also illustrate the practical utility of a large number of variables in different sections of the AHS. Many neighborhood characteristics are shown to have a significant effect on home values, for example, which is information of potentially great value to homeowners and local governments.IntroductionAn important aspect of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD's) mission is its goal of creating quality affordable homes for all. To accomplish this goal effectively, it is necessary to consider affordability and quality in tandem. Affordability may be achieved by neglecting routine maintenance and allowing properties to deteriorate, or by failing to replace or renovate very old housing units to bring them more in line with modern building codes. Few people would consider these to be desirable outcomes.Historically, to judge the quality of the U.S. housing stock, researchers have typically relied on standard criteria for classifying housing units as physically adequate or inadequate, using characteristics of the housing units collected in the American Housing Survey (AHS). The AHS, which is funded by HUD and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau in odd-numbered years, collects information on a large number of housing characteristics. A number of these characteristics are combined to produce a variable that classifies housing units as adequate, moderately inadequate, or severely inadequate. This variable is included on the AHS public use file. These measures are designed by HUD and are used by HUD for HUD purposes. It is much more common to accept this traditional classification scheme uncritically than to consider an alternative specification, despite the richness of the AHS data set that would permit extensive experimentation with alternatives.Relying on the standard AHS adequacy classification scheme produces a view of the U.S. housing market in which problems of high housing costs relative to income are considerably more widespread than problems of poor-quality housing. For example, HUD's latest report to Congress on "Worst Case Housing Needs" (HUD, 201 1) states, "Of the two types of priority problems that qualify as worst case needs, severe rent burden appears far more frequently than severely inadequate housing." An implication is that the problem of physically inadequate housing in the United States and its interaction with affordability, although of interest from a theoretic perspective, can often be comfortably neglected in favor of a concentration on affordability problems. …


The text of the design of control agreement with the ADO.NET disconnected access model based on the view of the current network database with control of the inadequacy of the mechanism and make full use of disconnect data access model of the advantages of model to solve the disconnect model network database Application of the system with control agreement.


Epithelial inclusion cyst of the cecum (EICC) is a rare lesion. It is considered a seques- tration cyst, either of congenital or acquired origin. As a congenital lesion, it is related to misplaced ectodermal elements at the time of neural groove closure or when ecto- derm and entoderm coalesces. As an acquired cyst, it may follow implantation of cuta- neous tissue after appendectomy, laparoscopic surgery or needling. A 66-year-old man presented with acute right lower quadrant abdominal pain, which was interpreted atypical for acute appendicitis. A subserosal/muscular cystic mass in the cecum without luminal communication but accompanied by tiny pockets of free air and acute inflammatory changes in the right colonic gutter was noted on com- puted tomographic scan with contrast. On exploration, no obvious perforation of any viscus but a tracking of purulent material along the right pericecal gutter was found. With a palpation finding of a soft mass in the cecal wall and low suspicion for malig- nancy, only a short segment ileocecectomy was performed. The patient had uneventful postoperative follow-up. The lesion microscopically was lined by stratified squamous epithelium, contained ample keratinous material, and associated with a granular cell tumor wall in the subep- ithelial soft tissue and surrounding smooth muscle. Special studies (periodic acid-Schiff and immunostaining with neuron specific enolase, S-100, lyzosymes, desmin and vimentin) affirmed a reactive histiocytic nature of the granular cells. The differential diagnosis of EICC includes dermoid cyst and cystic teratoma that usually demonstrate other skin structures and embryonic tissue elements, respectively, which were absent in our case. A literature review is also presented.


The Rural Reconstruction Commission 1943-46 remains the most ambitious inquiry ever undertaken into Australia's rural affairs. Despite the Commission's scope it has attracted little interest from historians. This lack of interest stems from an inaccurate assessment of the impact the reports had on policy making. Assessments have emphasised the few recommendations adopted, but have failed to appreciate the Commission's usefulness to governments confronted with the diverse interests and entrenched jurisdictional boundaries that complicate rural policy making.


In the present review the main features characterizing a current state of therapeutic and prophylactic drugs bacteriophages manufacturing and use are described. The development trends of preparations are outlined. The article introduces the list of bacteriophage based products, the main fields of their use and the actual examples of phage usage in clinical practice and in antiepidemic actions in general. The basic advantages of phages compared to antibiotics are also given.


The study sought to evaluate the effects of corporate governance practices on employee performance and job satisfaction, by examining Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Harare Metropolitan Province.Seventy-five respondents drawn from SMEs were selected using stratified randomsampling. The study used quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Structured questionnaires and interviews were used as research instruments to collect primary data from respondents. The reliability of research instrument was tested using Cronbach alpha.The results indicated that good corporate governance practices such as having a board of directors, internal controls, adherence to codes of ethics, disclosures, setting clear performance measures, consulting employees and allowing for autonomy in decision-making stimulate job satisfaction and improved employee performance in SMEs. It was the finding of the study that contrary to literature, transparency in SMEs did not lead to job satisfaction and improved employee performance. The study recommended thatSMEs should have functional boards of directors to improve on oversight, accountability and to promote generation of new ideas. SMEs should strive to improve access to information and should ensure that communication is two-way. It was further recommended that SMEs should improve their internal controls by adopting corporate governance best practices in order to achieve job satisfaction and improve on employee performance.


OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND:Survey studies using Likert scales suggest that families of patients dying in intensive care units (ICUs) are more satisfied with their ICU experience than families of survivors. Differences in satisfaction with care between these two groups have been less well explored using qualitative methods.The free-response sections from a survey of families of ICU patients made comfort measures only (CMO) are more likely to contain a higher proportion of positive statements regarding care, compared to the same sections from surveys of families of ICU survivors.
DESIGN/METHODS: From March 2014 to July 2015, we administered the Family Satisfaction ICU survey (FS-ICU 24), with additional questions, to English-speaking family members of patients in a single academic NICU. One family member of each survivor with admission longer than 72 hours was surveyed at discharge, while one family member of every patient made CMO was surveyed by mail one month after death. Two reviewers coded statements from free-response sections, using a previously published FS-ICU coding structure. The coded statements graded positive versus negative were calculated for six pre-specified themes and compared between groups.
RESULTS:We collected 50[percnt](150/298) of all possible survivor surveys and 31[percnt](34/110) of all possible CMO surveys. The proportions of positive statements within each of the six themes were as follows: (1) gratitude and satisfaction [survivors=99[percnt] (83/84), CMO=89[percnt] (17/19)]; (2) overall quality of medical care provided [survivors=64[percnt] (41/65), CMO=92[percnt] (11/12)]; (3) communication [survivors=53[percnt] (56/105), CMO=50[percnt] (10/20)]; (4) compassion and respect shown to the patient and family [survivors=92[percnt](47/51), CMO=93[percnt](13/14)], (5) inclusion of family in decision making [survivors=75[percnt](33/44), CMO=83[percnt](5/6)], (6) and competence and dedication of staff [survivors=88[percnt](42/48), CMO=100[percnt](12/12)].
CONCLUSIONS: The free-response sections from our CMO surveys contained a higher proportion of positive statements regarding quality of care, inclusion in decision making, and staff competence; compared to the same sections from our survivor surveys. Disclosure: Dr. Nhundu has nothing to disclose. Dr. Huang has nothing to disclose. Dr. Knies has nothing to disclose. Dr. Weber has nothing to disclose. Dr. Robinson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Anderson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Akgun has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hwang has received research support from the American Brain Foundation Practice Research Training Fellowship.


ß‐Ga2O3 nanorod was first directly prepared by the microwave irradiation hydrothermal way without any subsequent heat treatments, and its characterizations were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), high‐resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), UV–Vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy techniques, and also its photocatalytic degradation for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was investigated. XRD patterns revealed that ß‐Ga2O3 crystallization increased with the enhancement of microwave power and the adding of active carbon (AC). PFOA, as an environmental and persistent pollutant, is hard decomposed by hydroxyl radicals (HO·); however, it is facilely destroyed by ß‐Ga2O3 photocatalytic reaction in an anaerobic atmosphere. The important factors such as pH, ß‐Ga2O3 dosage and bubbling atmosphere were researched, and the degradation and defluorination was 98.8% and 56.2%, respectively. Reductive atmosphere reveals that photoinduced electron may be the major reactant for PFOA. Furthermore, the degradation kinetics for PFOA was simulated and constant and half‐life was calculated, respectively.


In order to approach the differences of insect diversity of different habitat types in Jinggangshan University campus, an investigation was conducted on the insects in three types of habitats in Jinggangshan University campus. A total of 567 insects were collected, belonging to 76 species, 9 orders, among which,Lepidoptera, Homoptera and Orhoptera were the dominant taxa. The species diversity was the highest in A type area, and the lowest in C type area. The H' index of three areas was 2.00, 1.99 and 1.94, and the Dma index was12.75, 9.09 and 4.51 respectively. The A and B is the most similar in three areas according to Jaecard coefficient.The results showed that the similarity of the insect community in the habitats was related to the plant types and people activities. Rich plants and poor people activities contribute to the strongest insect community stability. It indicated that habitat plants could affect insect survival, and further, affect the species composition and distribution pattern of insect community.


World's scientists are taking various approaches to tackle with SARS-COV-2 virus pandemic that was originated from Wuhan, China in late 2019 and caused Covid-19 disease. Researchers found the ultraviolet ability to decontaminate surfaces, air, and water from viruses and bacteria. Different from UVA and UVB, UVC is quite effective in destroying microorganisms. UV from Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that are polychromatic rays (10-12nm) are more effective in inactivating microorganisms or viruses than monochromatic (<1nm) ones. The influence of UV on the hydrogen bonds between water molecules affects the protein structure and dynamics of deviating their functions. The degree of bond stretching and vibrations between the hydrogen and oxygen atoms in a water molecule determines its ability to dissociate and act as a catalyst. The UV light adds energy to the water molecules and increases their vibrations to the point where they break up. Following this so-called 'transition state', the water cages in the water networks exposed to hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules are rearranged and thus, say the rate of ionic flows inside the ionic channel is changed. Accordingly, disturbance in the water network arrangements leads to the disruption of ionic bonds in functional groups of viral proteins and thus, leads to the disruption of the function of ion channels and viral receptors. However, while electromagnetic radiations decrease the virus infectivity, uncontrolled UV irradiation can cause significant harm to human health and other living organisms. Here, the effect of the UV irradiation on the hydration status of virus spike and membrane channel proteins will be discussed. Further, the effects of free radicals formed by irradiated UV on the structure and dynamics of virus exposed proteins will be shown.


Applying graph and correlation developed in other countries to the domestic field has limits. Therefore, it is necessary that Piezocone factor should be determined by including ground characteristics obtained from various test results in the domestic site for better application. In this study, laboratory tests and field tests were performed to find the characteristics of soft ground which was widely distributed around Siwha lake. A comparative analysis of these tests with Piezocone penetration test was performed and the Piezocone factor was estimated by correlationship analysis of undrained shear strength and cone resistance. Also, an appropriate Piezocone factor in the study site was reestimated by utilizing statistical analysis method for deriving reliable result.


AbstractPurpose The aim of this observational study was toassess the influence of preoperative opioid consumption onpostoperative morphine consumption after leg amputationperformed under combined regional and generalanesthesia.Methods After Institutional Review Board approval,patients scheduled for leg amputation were included in aprospective observational study. A popliteal sciatic nervecatheter was placed preoperatively and 0.75% ropivacaine20 mL was injected incrementally. Amputation was per-formed under general anesthesia. Postoperative analgesiaincluded acetaminophen, a continuous infusion of 0.2%ropivacaine at 7 mL hr -1 , and intravenous morphine ifthe visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score was [3ona0–10 scale. Patients were divided post-hoc into two groupsaccording to their preoperative opioid consumption: yes(Preop opioids) or no (No preop opioid).Results Twenty-two patients were included, 12 in thePreop opioids Group and 10 in the No preop opioid Group.The VAS score after catheter insertion and before inductionof general anesthesia was zero in both groups. Total post-operative opioid consumption from day 1 to day 3 and dailyconsumption at day 7 was greater in the Preop opioidsGroup than in the No preop opioid Group (52 [13–133] mgmorphine equivalents vs 0 [0–26] mg; P = 0.02) and(10 [8–25] mg vs 0 [0–0] mg; P = 0.01), respectively,(median [25–75 interquartile values]).Conclusion Despite the use of regional anesthesia,chronic opioid consumption before leg amputation isassociated with increased postoperative morphine con-sumption and phantom limb pain.Re´sume´Objectif Le but de cette e´tude observationnelle e´taitd'e´valuer l'influence de la consommation chroniquepre´ope´ratoire d'opiace´s sur la consommation postope´ra-toire de morphine apre`s amputation de la jambe re´alise´esous anesthe´sie locore´gionale et ge´ne´rale combine´e.Me´thode Apre`s accord du comite´ d'e´thique local, despatients devant be´ne´ficier d'une amputation de jambe onte´te´ inclus prospectivement. Un cathe´ter sciatique poplite´e´tait mis en place en pre´ope´ratoire et de la ropivacai¨ne 0,75%20mLe´tait injecte´ en doses fractionne´es. L'amputatione´tait re´alise´e sous anesthe´sie ge´ne´rale. L'analge´sie post-ope´ratoire comportait de l'ace´taminophe`ne, une perfusioncontinue de ropivacai¨ne 0,2 % a` 7mL hr


Problem-based learning (PBL) is a learning strategy that is implemented in higher education to facilitate the translation of knowledge to real-life practical situations. Time and resource availability may restrict the implementation of PBL techniques into curricula; however, group-based case studies offer a time and resource efficient applied learning alternative. Indeed, the use of case studies in a learning environment is common practice within medical education and other health professions, such as sport and exercise science (Schmidt, 1983; Wood, 2003). Case studies allow students to problem solve in a scenario-based setting (Strandridge, 2000), and in the subject of sport and exercise nutrition, it is important to be able to relate knowledge acquired in a lecture into a real-life situation to enhance the workforce readiness of students. A workshop using case studies was introduced into a first-year subject in sport and exercise science. The intent of the workshop was to encourage students to engage with a real-life situation and to develop their teamwork and public speaking skills.


Wilde (1984) recently defended the risk homoeostasis theory, which predicts that conventional (non-motivational) safety measures will fail to reduce the accident rate per unit time of exposure in an activity. Support for RHT was claimed from an analysis of U.S. road accident data. However, there were problems with Wilde's analysis, which are outlined. British road-accident data, comparable with the U.S. data used by Wilde, are analysed, showing a substantial post-war reduction in mortality rate per vehicle distance. Various possible explanations for the results are described. Little support is found for risk homoeostasis theory.


Summary

Novel bio-inspired superhydrophobic hybrid micro-nanocomposites were prepared by using plant or tree leaf powder as a bio-source with the help of polysiloxane and various silane precursors. The hybrid suspensions showed superhydrophobic property when coating on various substrates by simple evaporation of solvents on the substrates at room temperature. Similarly, the hybrid powders obtained by the complete evaporation of solvents from the suspension also maintained the superhydrophobicity. The prepared hybrid micro-nanocomposite suspensions and hybrid powders were used for various types of applications such as selective oils and organic solvents spill capture, non-stick and self-cleaning coatings, selective adsorption of metal ions from metal complex solutions prepared from artificial sea water. Owing to the biocompatibility of the hybrid micro-nanocomposite powder, this can also be used for various bio-applications.


Within the knowledge organization systems (KOS) set, the term "ontology" is paradigmatic of the terminological ambiguity in different typologies. Contributing to this situation is the indiscriminate association of the term "ontology", both as a specific type of KOS and as a process of categorization, due to the interdisciplinary use of the term with different meanings. We present a systematization of the perspectives of different authors of ontologies, as representational artifacts, seeking to contribute to terminological clarification. Focusing the analysis on the intention, semantics and modulation of ontologies, it was possible to notice two broad perspectives regarding ontologies as artifacts that coexist in the knowledge organization systems spectrum. We have ontologies viewed, on the one hand, as an evolution in terms of complexity of traditional conceptual systems, and on the other hand, as a system that organizes ontological rather than epistemological knowledge. The focus of ontological analysis is the item to model and not the intentions that motivate the construction of the system.


According to the demand for the High Vocational Technical Institutes by the National Ministry of Education,this paper looks into and analyzes the English traditional teaching method,puts forward the new features and development about the foreign language teaching at the Information Age and how to realize the Multimedia Teaching Method.It is the most important teaching method to realize the new idea of the Multimedia Teaching Method against the traditional teaching method.


Background Hypertension is an important risk factor for cardiovascular events in patients with peripheral artery disease; however, optimal blood pressure targets for these patients are poorly defined. This study investigated the association between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and cardiovascular events in a prospectively recruited patient cohort with peripheral artery disease. Methods and Results A total of 2773 patients were included and were grouped according to SBP at recruitment (≤120 mm Hg, n=604; 121–140 mm Hg, n=1065; and >140 mm Hg, n=1104). Adjusted Cox proportional hazards analyses suggested that patients with SBP ≤120 mm Hg were at greater risk of having a major cardiovascular event (myocardial infarction, stroke, or cardiovascular death) than patients with SBP of 121–140 mm Hg (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.08–1.72; P=0.009). Patients with SBP >140 mm Hg had an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.23 (95% CI, 1.00–1.51; P=0.051) of major cardiovascular events compared with patients with SBP of 121–140 mm Hg. These findings were similar in sensitivity analyses only including patients receiving antihypertensive medications or focused on patients with a minimum of 3 months of follow‐up. Conclusions This cohort study suggests that patients with peripheral artery disease and SBP ≤120 mm Hg are at increased risk of major cardiovascular events. The findings suggest caution in intensive SBP lowering in this patient group.


In this session some of the Academy's most prominent thought leaders will share their perspectives on how management theory needs to change to enable better lives.


The harmonics assessment in every industry is necessary for the reliability and quality of the product. In this paper the harmonic measurement in a printing industry, which is done by the instrument in accordance with IEC 61000-4-7 is presented. The harmonics level in various circuit conditions considered and explained in this paper. The permitted level of which are verified with IEEE 519 - 1992 and the richness of the harmonics are highlighted. The Total Harmonics Distortion and Individual Harmonics Distortion are measured at specified locations in the consumer distribution network with four different circuit conditions. The power factor varaiation due to change in the circuits also highlighted in this paper. This paper gives wide scope for readers to understand the typicality of the harmonics pattern and it's interaction with consumer distribution network


The physical and chemical characteristics of supercritical fluids have prompted the development of supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) for the analysis of labile and less volatile compounds. High resolution chromatographic separations with efficiencies approaching those of gas chromatography and high speed analyses are possible in capillary SFC using pressure programming methods and narrow bore columns. Further refinement of the SFC-mass spectrometry interface (SFC-MS) provides the basis for extension to more polar fluid systems with greater solvating power and the selectivity and sensitivity of mass spectrometric detection. The use of polar modified fluids has been facilitated by advances in understanding of supercritical fluid phase behavior. Fluid mixtures have been prepared for analysis of more polar, higher molecular weight analytes, that allow mild chromatographic temperatures and allow full exploitation of selectivity offered through control of fluid pressure (i.e., density). Continuing development of the SFC-MS interface has led to designs which can be near routinely applied with fluids such as CO/sub 2/, and providing enhanced transport of truly nonvolatile compounds to the mass spectrometer ionization regions. These advances also include an SFC interface to a high resolution, dual electric magnetic sector instrument, allowing supercritical fluid solvents to be explited for on-line extraction-mass spectrometry formore » characterization of complex, often otherwise intractable, materials. 26 refs., 5 figs., 1 tab.« less


With the increasing efficiency of answer set solvers and a better understanding of program design, answer set programming has reached a stage where it can be more successfully applied in a wider range of applications and where it attracts attention from researchers in other disciplines. One of these domains is music synthesis. In this paper we approach the automation and analysis of composition of music as a knowledge representation and advanced reasoning task. Doing so, it is possible to capture the underlying rules of melody and harmony by a very small, simple and elegant set of logic rules that can be interpreted under the answer set semantics. Our system, Anton, is the first algorithmic composer to combine both harmonic and melodic composition. In addition to describing the composition system thus created we consider the advantages of constructing an algorithmic composer this way, and also the limitations of current solvers.


We describe the iterative design of LillyPad, a mobile PDA application for gathering data and supporting scientific inquiry activities intended to be used by scientists and students to assess and learn about environmental restoration sites. We show how a greater concern for the appearance of the interface in a subsequent iteration enhanced the way it was used, its usefulness and the overall user experience. We present a 'before and after' case study, showing how we moved from a functional/usability approach to a usabilityin-the-large one that includes aesthetics. Findings are presented showing how the redesigned application was more extensively used for learning and reasoning about aspects of the environmental restoration site. Finally, we discuss the importance of taking into account usability-inthe-large when designing for small screens. Author


The collection of personal data through mobile applications and IoT devices represents the core business of many corporations. From one hand, users are losing control about the property of their data and rarely are conscious about what they are sharing with whom; from the other hand, laws like the European General Data Protection Regulation try to bring data control and ownership back to users. In this paper we discuss the possible impact of the blockchain technology in building independent and resilient data management systems able to ensure data ownership and traceability. The use of this technology could play a major role in creating a transparent global market of aggregated personal data where voluntary acquisition is subject to clear rules and some forms of incentives, making not only the process ethical but also encouraging the sharing of high quality sensitive data.


The basic principle of phase-locked loop is introduced, and the software phase-locking method based on synchronous rotation coordinates is adopted. The phase-locked loop simulation model is established in the Matlab/Simulink environment, and the phase-locked method of constructing orthogonal vectors by SOGI transform is simulated and verified. Finally, two phases are constructed by software phase locking method based on SOGI transform, and the software programming process is given for experimental verification.


Mechanical models have been more on technical rather than on biological concepts, which yield unstable locomotion with low speed. Structural and locomotive characteristics of living creatures are copied and modeled with 13 links, 12 joints and body, from the mechanical engineering viewpoint. Quadruped models are simulated as a time variable for the one cycle. Torques at joints are calculated and finally converted to total consumed energy. Variables, specifying structure and locomotion, are applied to the simulation as a time function, and the optimal variables which minimize energy expenditure are derived which can be directly applied to the Quadruped locomotion.


LIA ISTIFAIYAH :
Reg. Num. 58430624
"THE INFLUENCE OF LEARNING QUESTION-ANSWER TECHNIQUE ON STUDENTS' COMPETENCE IN READING TEXT AT THE FIRST YEAR STUDENTS OF SMPN 3 LEMAHSUGIH-MAJALENGKA"
Question-answer technique is one of some techniques in teaching and learning especially in reading text comprehension. The students demanded to be able to read and comprehend the content of the reading texts. But in English lesson, especially in reading comprehension at SMPN 3 Lemahsugih-Majalengka, they still have many problems that must be overcome. Most of the students feel difficult to understand the content of the reading texts and become passive in learning.
The aims in this research are to know the application of learning question-answer technique become more active to the students, to know the students' competence in reading text and to know the positive and significant influence of learning question-answer technique on students' competence in reading text at the first year students of SMPN 3 Lemahsugih-Majalengka.
In this research, the method used is a quantitative one. The place of the research in SMPN 3 Lemahsugih-Majalengka and began to do research on Mei-July 2012. Because the population at the first year students of SMPN 3 Lemahsugih-Majalengka more than 100, so the researcher take 25% from 164 (total population) are 41 students. To know the students' competence in learning question-answer technique, the writer presented the test to students and to find out the quantitative data of result of test on reading by the students who are taught with question-answer technique, the writer used the formula of Product Moment by Pearson to analysis the data and T count formula to know the hypothesis of this researcher is weather refused or accepted.
The result of correlation coefficient between the Learning question-answer technique and the students' competence in reading text is 0.88 has positive correlation. The value of rxy is 0.88 > 0.304 or rxy > rt. It means that the value is bigger than value in the table at significant degree 5%, with value of DC is 77%. The value of "t" with df = N-2 or 41- 2 = 39 is 11.43 and the value of "t" distribution in significant 5% is 2.02. So, the value of "t" is bigger than "t" distribution in table (t count > t table), it means significant value. So, Ha is accepted and Ho is rejected. In order to word, there is positive and significant correlation between the learning question-answer technique on students' competence in reading text at SMPN 3 Lemahsugih-Majalengka 2012-2013 with correlation coefficient value is 0.88, it means that is high correlation, because it's between 0.71-0.90.


By using(G′/G)-expansion method,we get the explicit solutions of Camassa-Holm equations in the modified b-equation class,which are more general and more abundant than the results in the literature.


Research indicates the essentiality of dignity as a vital component for quality of life, reconfirming the emphasis on dignity preservation in the international code of nursing ethics. Applying Noblit and Hare's meta-ethnography, the aim of the study was to develop a theory model by synthesizing 10 qualitative articles from various cultural contexts, exploring nurse and allied healthcare professional perception/practice concerning dignity-preserving dementia care. "Advocating the person's autonomy and integrity," which involves "having compassion for the person," "confirming the person's worthiness and sense of self," and "creating a humane and purposeful environment," was identified as a primary foundation for dignity-preserving dementia care. "Balancing individual choices among persons no longer able to make sound decisions, against the duty of making choices on behalf of the person," which involves "persuasion" and/or "mild restraint," was considered a crucial aspect in certain situations. "Sheltering human worth—remembering those who forget" was identified as a comprehensive motive and core value within dignity-preserving dementia care.


Many organizations now rely on the Web to conduct business. The increasing popularity of the Internet and e-commerce makes online merchants to constantly seek tools/mechanisms that would permit them to attract new and retain old customers. To achieve these two goals, a business should know, as much as possible, about its customers. Customers are the pivot of all businesses. When businesses lack knowledge of their customers, such businesses cannot efficiently develop their marketing activities.


This study considers the development of combined meat products containing, along with meat raw materials, other types of raw materials of animal and vegetable origin. The aim of the research is to substantiate the advantages of combining duck meat of regional origin with other types of raw materials in meat-containing cooked smoked sausages. A model for studying of the feasibility of combining duck meat of regional origin with other raw materials was a recipe for cooked smoked sausage containing meat of the Muscovy duck and also including pork hearts, salted pork side-fat, soybean isolates, pork skin protein, edible albumin "Aprored." In the model samples of forcemeat for meat-containing cooked smoked sausages, functional and technological properties have been determined according to standard methods. The biological food value of the finished products has been determined as well. The analysis of the results confirms that the combination of Muscovy duck meat and protein-containing secondary raw materials improves the moisture content, water-holding capacity, emulsifying ability, and stability of the emulsion. The study of the microbiological parameters of the sausages developed has indicated that the number of mesophilic aerobic and facultative anaerobic microorganisms (MAFAM) in all the samples studied was within the normal limits. The study of the number of bacteria of the E. coli group has not detected these microorganisms in any of the samples. For the ω-6 and ω-3 family, its high biological value as for the content of essential amino acids and its biological effectiveness as for the fatty acids have been confirmed. It has been proved that duck meat can be combined with traditional types of meat and vegetable raw materials to increase the biological effectiveness of meat-containing cooked smoked sausages. It has been determined that when Muscovy duck meat is combined with non-meat kinds of protein-containing raw material (pork skin protein, soybean isolate) as part of meat-containing cooked smoked sausage, it allows producing nutritious food with high quality characteristics.


This book is based on original research and explores the extent to which the mental health needs of young women are identified and met whilst in and after leaving police custody. The research identifies the need for greater consistency in catering for this group's needs as well as developing specialist services for black and minority ethnic women with mental health challenges. It puts forward recommendations for insight into young women's mental health to translate to effective interventions that divert them from re-offending.


Objective To research the mechanism of acupuncture and moxibustion in treating heroin relapse.Methods The rat model of heroin relapse was induced by intramuscular injection of incremental dosageheroin at three 8-day stages by two 5-day breaks.The behavioral changes of conditional position preference,and the levels of dopamine(DA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT) in the brains were observed in rats with heroin relapse.Results Acupuncture and moxibustion significantly inhibited the decrement of body mass,statistically decreased the levels of DA and 5-HT in the brains,and significantly prolong the retention time in the dark box in the rats with heroin relapse(P0.01).Conclusion One of the mechanisms of acupuncture and moxibustion in intervening heroin relapse might be related with inhibiting the release of DA and 5-HT in the brain,and decreasing the dependence on circumstances correlated with administering heroin.


The Dissertation Council is allowed to accept dissertations in the specialty 14.00.01 for defense. - obstetrics and gynecology and 14.00.40 - urology.
For the period 2001-2002. The Council reviewed 4 doctoral and 15 master's theses. Of these, in obstetrics and gynecology: 3 - doctoral and 8 - master's theses.


This paper is concerned with a technique ZigBee, which is open global wireless protocol based on IEEE 802.15.4 standard. ZigBee operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band similar to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, but it operates at much lower data rate of 250 kb/s. It may interfere with other devices which work in same frequency band. The proposed schemes enable to transmit video over ZigBee with minimum data loss and excellent picture quality. . ZigBee, in general, uses a single channel for data transmission an image transmission over ZigBee networks with a transmit diversity. Video over zigbee is send using cryptography which will help in distributing data to intended user with key system and used to provide low cost, low power, low bit-rate wireless transmission of data over network. In order to transmit large amount of information that requires high data rates such as video, images etc, a transmit diversity is considered. This improves throughput of network and made it more faster.


The erroneous concept that "bigger is better" in terms of nasal airway size still surfaces in otolaryngologic practice, and the importance of laminar and transitional airflow for optimal nasal function are sometimes forgotten, as are the effects of the normal nasal cycle on interpretation of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Several articles in this issue of the International Forum of Allergy and Rhinology (IFAR) evaluate different aspects of nasal physiology and nasal symptomatology in health and disease. Computer flow dynamic (CFD) simulation has become popular in recent years as a methodology for evaluating nasal airflow and sinus air exchange. De Gabory et al.1 use a highly refined CFD gridding model to evaluate the airflow during the respiratory cycle, and the supplementary slow motion videos available online from the IFAR website are definitely worth review. The study nicely demonstrates how the olfactory cleft is mainly filled from the posterior during expiration and how particles remain in the posterior portion of the olfactory cleft after the respiratory cycle has been completed. They hypothesize that this may explain why patients may first recover a sense of taste before they recover a sense of smell. Nishijima et al.2 use CFD models to evaluate the effects of virtual polyps on olfaction. This study suggests that polyps in the preolfactory region strongly decrease olfactory airflow on inspiration, and that polyps in the middle meatus might increase olfactory airflow, but they point out that the anticipated increase in olfaction has not been observed clinically, probably because clinical mucosal changes are typically more diffuse and polyps may also result in medialization of the middle turbinate. Although the racial origin of the model utilized in the de Gabory et al.1 study is not denoted, the airflow pattern would suggest a white nose and presumably the Nishijima et al.2 work utilized Asian models. Despite the publication of a number of CFD airflow simulations, none to my knowledge have yet evaluated individuals of African descent, who in earlier airflow models were described as having airflow patterns along the floor of the nose, thus creating an opportunity for future research.


To educate undergraduate and graduate students in the fundamentals of robotics focused engineering science, it is necessary to provide hands-on laboratory experiences that illuminate the theories and show their practical applications. Through a program of courses and real world applications it is possible to extend a students knowledge and expertise in areas of relevance and get students on the cutting edge of technology. In addition, the use of multiple team projects enables students to work cooperatively, creatively and to apply theory to solutions for challenging ocean problems. Also, while building the students skills, we can use these programs to help deepen their understanding of the social and environmental impacts their solutions pose. To demonstrate their knowledge and depth of understanding in engineering practice, for many students we use complex ocean platforms and problems. Depending on the scale we sometimes break these into a series of stand-alone sub-systems. Each student has to complete a capstone project and compete for awards in their specific discipline as well as an overall first place within the school of engineering. The selection process is accomplished using industrial and academic engineers as judges with a fixed set of criteria and judging rules. At a minimum to graduate each student must demonstrate design and development of functional components, systems, tests, or services that meet the agreed on specifications in the context of economic, environmental, and societal requirements assigned by the student advisor. The skills that are judged include working in a team environment, contribution of knowledge and expertise, and a demonstration of leadership in their specific field of engineering on a multi-disciplinary team. They must also communicate effectively with colleagues, customers, subordinates, and managers, demonstrate in presentations and documentation for the capstone project. The competition is expressly designed to look at how well students apply concepts of math, science, and engineering. Also, to see how effective their designs, experiments conducted, and data analysis apply to the capstone project goals. This paper uses several different examples, from both undergraduate and graduate students to demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach to engineering education.


Harrogate police are looking to identify a van which failed to stop following a collision with a red Rover. It occurred at 5.50pm on Friday 26 April ...


Objective: To explore the effects of porcine acellular dermal matrix (ADM) combined with human epidermal stem cells (ESCs) on wound healing of full-thickness skin defect in nude mice. Methods: Experimental research methods were applied. The physical properties of ADM were analyzed by photograph of digital camera, hematoxylin eosin (HE) staining, scanning electron microscope, infrared spectrometer, particle size analyzer and nano-particle size potentiometer. The biological properties of ADM were analyzed by fluorescence inverted microscope, weighing method (ADM was divided into 5 min group, 10 min group, 20 min group, 30 min group, 60 min group, and 120 min group according to the random number table (the same grouping method as below) and in static state at normal temperature for the corresponding time to calculate the water absorption, with sample number of 3), cytotoxicity test and rating (mouse embryonic fibroblasts (Fbs) were divided into blank control group (culture medium only), 50.0 g/L ADM extract group, 37.5 g/L ADM extract group, 25.0 g/L ADM extract group, 12.5 g/L ADM extract group, and 6.5 g/L ADM extract group (the latter 5 groups were added with the corresponding final concentrations of AMD extract respectively). At post culture hour (PCH) 24, 48, and 72, the cell survival rate was detected by cell counting kit 8, with sample number of 5), and blood compatibility test (the erythrocytes of a 6-week-old male Sprague-Dayley rat were divided into normal saline group, ultra-pure water group, 5 mg/mL ADM extract group, 10 mg/mL ADM extract group, and 15 mg/mL ADM extract group and treated with the corresponding reagents of corresponding concentration. After reaction for 3 h, the absorbance value was detected by microplate reader, with sample number of 3). ESCs were isolated, cultured, and identified from the discarded prepuce of a 6-year-old boy who was treated in the Department of Urology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University (the Third Military Medical University) in July 2020. ADM particles of composite ESC (hereinafter referred to as ESC/ADM) were constructed by mixed culture. After 3 days of culture, the composite effect of ESC/ADM was observed by HE staining and laser confocal microscope. Thirty-six 7-8-week-old male non-thymic nude mice were divided into phosphate buffer solution (PBS) alone group, ADM alone group, ESC alone group, and ESC/ADM group, with 9 mice in each group, and the wound model of full-thickness skin defect was established. Immediately after injury, the wounds were treated with the corresponding reagents at one time. On post injury day (PID) 7, 11, and 15, the wound healing was observed and the wound healing rate was counted (with sample number of 3). On PID 7, the epithelialization of wounds was observed by HE staining and the epithelialization length was measured (with following sample numbers of 4). On PID 11, the dermis area and collagen deposition of each group were observed by Masson staining and calculated, the number of cells expressing CD49f, a specific marker of ESC, was calculated with immunofluorescence staining, the mRNA expression of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) gene in ESC after wound transplantation with detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR. Data were statistically analyzed with independent sample t test, one-way analysis of variance, analysis of variance for repeated measurement, and least signigicant difference t test. Results: ADM was white particles and composed of reticular structure, with disordered structure, rough surface, and no cells inside. The absorption peak of ADM appears at the wave numbers of 1 659, 1 549 and 1 239 cm-1, respectively. The main particle size distribution of ADM in solution was 500 to 700 nm, with negative charge on the surface. The morphology of ADM in static state at 30 min and on 1 and 5 d were relatively stable. The water absorption of ADM reached its peak in static state at 30 min and remained relatively stable after that. The cytotoxicity of mouse Fbs in 6.5 g/L ADM extract group, 12.5 g/L ADM extract group, and 25.0 g/L ADM extract group was grade 1 at PCH 24, and the cytotoxicity of the other groups was 0 grade at each time point. After reaction for 3 h, the absorbance value of hemoglobin in ultrapure water group was significantly higher than the values in normal saline group and 15 mg/mL ADM extract group (t=8.14, 7.96, P<0.01). The results showed that hemolysis did not occur in 5 mg/mL ADM extract, 10 mg/mL ADM extract, nor 15 mg/mL ADM extract. The cells of the fourth passage showed pebble-like morphology, low expression of CD71 and high expression of CD49f, which were identified as ESCs. There was ESC attachment and growth on ADM particles. On PID 1, the wound sizes of nude mice were almost the same in PBS alone group, ADM alone group, ESC alone group, and ESC/ADM group. On PID 7 and 15, the wound contraction of nude mice in each group was observed, especially in ADM alone group, ESC alone group, and ESC/ADM group. On PID 7, the wound healing rates of nude mice in ESC alone group and ESC/ADM group were significantly higher than the rate in PBS alone group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). On PID 11, the wound healing rate of nude mice in ESC/ADM group was significantly higher than that in PBS alone group (P<0.01). On PID 15, the wound healing rates of nude mice in ADM alone group, ESC alone group, and ESC/ADM group were significantly higher than the rate in PBS alone group (P<0.05). On PID 7, the length of un-epithelialized wound of nude mice in ADM alone group, ESC alone group, and ESC/ADM group was (816±85), (635±66), (163±32) μm, respectively, which were significantly lower than (1 199±43) μm in PBS alone group (t=5.69, 10.19, 27.54, P<0.01). On PID 11, the dermal areas of wounds of nude mice in ADM alone group, ESC alone group, and ESC/ADM group were significantly larger than those in PBS alone group (t=27.14, 5.29, 15.90, P<0.01); the collagen production of nude mice in ADM alone group and ESC/ADM group was more obvious than that in PBS alone group, and that in ESC alone group and PBS alone group was similar. On PID 11, the expression of CD49f and mRNA of GAPDH gene were positive in the wounds of nude mice in ESC alone group and ESC/ADM group. Conclusions: ESC/ADM particles can promote the healing of full-thickness skin defects in nude mice, which may be related to the fact that particles can improve the survial rate of ESC after transplant and ADM can promote rearrangement and vascularization of dermis.


Cardiac operations are the most common elective procedures currently done. Gastrointestinal complications are rare after cardiac surgery, with high morbidity and mortality rate. The incidence of acute cholecystitis after cardiac surgery is 0.2% to 0.5%. Identification of specific predictors for acute cholecystitis in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery should be attempted early in order to identify at-risk patients and prompt earlier diagnosis and treatment. Early and aggressive treatment in such cases is required if mortality is to be reduced.


A proof of the minimax theorem for the game played over a pair of compact metric spaces, in which the payoff is an upper or lower semicontinuous function.


In order to deal with the control problems of nonlinearity and difficulty of establishing an exact model of a micro turbine engine, a control algorithm based on neural network is proposed. The RBF neural network can identify the output value online, which is used by the single neuron controller to adjust its parameters based on a gradient algorithm. The simulation and rig test experiments show that, the neural network control algorithm has good real-time characteristic, tracking ability and robustness in the whole working range of 125000 r/min with the over shoot of less than 500 r/min and the stable error of less than 200r/min, which can meet the demands of micro turbine engine state regulation.


Objective To understand neonatal community-acquired pneumonia pathogen distribution and drug susceptibility status. Methods Treated 124 cases of neonatal community-acquired pneumonia, take sputum samples tested pathogens and drug susceptibility tested. Results The 124 cases were detected in samples of 143 pathogenic microorganisms.The major group G-bacteria Escherichia coli,Klebsiella pneumoniae,Enterobacter cloacae sensitive to amikacin rate was 100%.The major group G+bacteria Staphylococcus aureus,Staphylococcus epidermidis sensitive to linezolid were 100%. Premature children mixed infections and viral infection rates were significantly higher than full-term children,G-bacteria infection rate was significantly lower than full-term children,low birth weight children of mixed infection and viral infection rates were significantly higher than normal weight children,early neonatal mixed late neonatal infection rate was significantly higher(P0.05). Conclusion The regional neonatal community-acquired pneumonia pathogens G-bacteria,mainly G-bacteria highly sensitive to amikacin,mainly G+bacteria to linezolid high sensitivity, premature birth,low birth weight and early is a high incidence of mixed infections,increasing the difficulty of treatment.


Following extensive petrophysical studies and presite surveys, the Trill area of the Sudbury basin was selected for conducting the first 3-D seismic survey for mineral exploration in North America. The 3-D seismic experiment confirms that in a geological setting such as the Sudbury Igneous Complex, massive sulfide bodies cause a characteristic seismic scattering response. This provides an excellent basis for the direct detection of massive sulfides by seismic methods. The feasibility study suggests that high-resolution seismic methods offer a large detection radius in the order of hundreds to thousands of meters, together with accurate depth estimates.


Objective To reduce the sacrifice of the donor site and remain the preserved latissimus dorsal muscle function. Method The anatomy characteristic of thoradorsal vessel and nerve,separate the nerve from artery and preserve the nerve in the donor site was studied. The function of preserved muscle were tested after operation. In clinicaly,we treated 20 cases with this method. Results The latissimus dorsi flaps were survived without any problem of blood supply after transplantation in 19 cases,and the function of the muscle contraction in the donor site can be tested after operation. Conclusion Harvesting latissimus dorsi flap without excision thoracodrsal nerve can reduce the function loss of latissimus dorsi muscle.


Editor's Note: The title of the interview comes from a poem by William Carlos Williams entitled The Manoeuvre. There Williams talks about seeing two starlings, just before alighting, turning in the air together backwards--but what got to him, he says, was that in doing so, they faced "into the wind's teeth." Commenting on the poem, Denise Levertov points out that, while it is a celebration of life, it also tells us that life sometimes requires adroit manoeuvering, its fullness emerging when we work not against but in cooperation with that which makes it most difficult. The interview speaks to this throughout.


You should always be aware of the crucial role you play in enabling children to learn from using large equipment.


In this work, twin wire arc additive manufacturing (T-WAAM) combined with in-situ alloying method was developed to fabricate multi-element alloys, and biomedical Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy with a good combination of strength and ductility was successfully fabricated for the first time. The modification of microstructure and the improvement of mechanical properties of the deposited Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy caused by Nb addition were investigated. Although demonstrated here for Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy, the combined method of T-WAAM and in-situ alloying is in principle applicable to fabricate other multi-element alloys by composition design, which is conductive to expanding the application fields of WAAM. IMPACT STATEMENT Twin wire arc additive manufacturing combined with in-situ alloying was developed to fabricate multi-element alloys, and biomedical Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy with a good combination of strength and ductility was first fabricated. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT


Vaccines for prophylactic immunization provide the most reliable and effective protection against the vast majority of infectious diseases. Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) represents a high-priority medical issue at the territory of the Eurasian continent. Of great importance is assessing a role of distinct antibody titers especially low titers, observed quite often in vaccinated individuals, sometimes posing obstacles in determining a threshold of seropositivity as well as the level of specific protection against TBE virus. We aimed at obtaining data to assess antiviral activity of virus-specific antibodies with distinct titer levels based on the in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo experimental studies with a highly virulent Far-Eastern strain of tick-borne encephalitis virus. The in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo comprehensive experimental studies with a highly virulent Far-Eastern strain of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) were conducted and the dynamics of antiviral activity of virus-specific antibodies at variable titers (1:100–1:3200) was measured (timeframe ranged within 1–96 hours p.i.) to provide a rationale for evaluating the antiviral immune response. It was found that the in vitro experiments demonstrated that the IgG at 1:100 titer exerted a weak anti-TBEV neutralizing effect at all time-points examined. The IgG 1:400 titer caused a 2 log PFU/mL decline in TBEV Dal strain yield at 72 h post-infection, whereas at 1:3200 titer it completely suppressed TBEV replication throughout the observation period. The ex vivo experiments with blood serum obtained from vaccinated subjects demonstrating a range of TBEV antibody titers (sera from vaccinated individuals with varying anti-TBEV antibody titers) and in vivo (outinbred white mice) experiments revealed a delayed virus elimination for antibody titers at 1:100 and 1:200 as well as rapid virus elimination (1–2 days p.i.) for antibody titers greater than 1:400. Thus, antibody titer at 1:400 may be considered as the universal anti-TBEV protection threshold. In order to properly conclude regarding the revaccination schedule it is advised to start with testing blood serum for durability of anti-TBEV immune response. Subjects with TBEV antibody titers at 1:100 and 1:200 should be strongly recommended to undergo a mandatory revaccination. Such an approach is believed to be the most effective way toward enhancing efficacy of vaccine-mediated protection against TBE.


Objective To investigate the enhancement of amyloid-beta protein1-40 (Aβ1-40) in oligomerization and fibril formation by isoflurane and sevoflurane. Methods Control group: Aβ1-40 incubated in PBS. Group I: Aβ1-40 incubated in PBS with 1.3 MAC isoflurane dissolved. Group S: Aβ1-40 incubated in PBS with 1.3 MAC sevoflurane dissolved. The concentration of Aβ1-40 was 0.2mg/ml. The concentration of Aβ1-40 fibril was measured by thioflavine fluorimetric analysis at 30 min, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 d in all groups. The structure of Aβ1-40 fibril was observed by transmission electron microscope analysis at 30 min, and 7 d in control group, and 4 d and 7 d in groups I and S. Results Compared with control group, fluorescence intensity in group I was remarkably increased at all time points (P0.05), as were in group S at all time points except 3 d and 4 d (P0.05). Compared with group I, group S showed greatly decreased fluorescence intensity at all time points except for 30 min and 7 d. A higher density of fibrillar Aβ1-40 aggregation was observed at 4 d in group I compared with that at 7 d in control group and a massive aggregation was observed at 7 d in group I. Fibrillar Aβ1-40 aggregation was hardly observed at 4 d in group S but a higher density of fibrillar Aβ1-40 aggregation was observed at 7 d in group S as compared with the same time point in control group. Conclusion Both isoflurane and sevoflurane may enhance amyloid-beta protein in oligomerization and fibril formation, whereas such effect was found to be more active with isoflurane than with sevoflurane.


Recommender system, which attempts to narrow down selections for users based on their preference, plays a crucial role in many E-commerce platforms like Amazon and Taobao. Sponsored search can be regarded as a major revenue contributor of recommender system. The platform sorts the items by a ranking function and charges the advertisers for the users' positive feedback (e.g., click). However, traditional ranking strategies usually apply greedy ranking strategies (e.g.,pCTR*Bid), which considers the recommendation processes to be static and only focuses on the immediate reward. In practice, recommendation processes may be highly correlated with each other and cumulative reward needs to be taken into account. To address these issues, this paper redefines the ranking function and proposes a Deep Reinforcement learning based Ranking Strategy (DRRS) to maximize the cumulative reward of the platform. The experiments conducted on real-world datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework.


AIM
Authors, describing a clinical case of hepatic hydrothorax in absence of ascites, analyse the disease physiopathology and their therapeutic options.

PATIENTS AND METHODS
Case report of a mixed aethiology (HCV and alcohol) hepatic cirrhosis, with pleural effusion, without ascites.

CONCLUSIONS
Hepatic hydrothorax without ascites is an uncommon complication of cirrhosis with portal hypertension. Treatment could be pharmacological, with diuretics administration, or operating. A simple and cheap method is thoracentesis. If hydrothorax relapses, most effective method is transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt.


Discussion The perceived duration of stimuli increases with their temporal frequency [1] or speed [2]. In the brain, motion is encoded in different reference frames: some neurons in areas MT & MST respond to retinal motion and some to head-centered motion [3,4,5]. Here we investigate if perceived duration depends on retinal motion or on headcentered motion, in order to shed light on the neural basis of time perception. Smooth pursuit eye movements were used to disentangle retinal and head-centered motion.


In the last years the use of time reversal mirrors (TRM) and time reversal chaotic cavities was proposed as a method to focus sharp pulses in fluid media. An important application of those techniques is the formation of 3D echographic images. In a recent work we presented a statistical model to predict the spatial focusing of the time-reversed pulse and show the existence of a cut-off in the spatial frequencies caused by the existence of critical angles in the transmission function. In the solid-fluid interface, the high spatial frequencies are not transmitted to the fluid and generate an important limitation in the spatial focusing. A solution to overcome this limitation is to use rough surfaces in the interface. In this case, the waves are scattered by surface irregularities and all spatial frequencies are possible. In this work, we study the influence, in the time reversal focalization, of the roughness at the interface surface. We use spatial patterns corresponding to the longitudinal wavelength with a set of different (rms) roughness. A numerical simulation by finite elements is made to evaluate the experimental results in the time reversal processes.


Facing high demand in both the public and private sectors for qualified information-security specialists, Arizona's Mesa Community College (MCC) and Connecticut's Norwalk Community College (NCC) were among the first to develop degree programs at the community-college level. This follow-up article examines the steps the two schools took in creating their programs


The aspect ratio of the metallic tips near the apex regime rather than the whole probe tip play a more important role in high aspect ratio nanometrology. It is found that the etching rate is a key factor that executes main effect on the aspect ratio of probe tip near the apex. Through combination of different etching parameters, such as voltage, electrolyte concentration, immersion depth, cathode shape and size, tungsten nanotips with a controllable aspect ratio and sharpness can be obtained, tips with aspect ratio up to 450∶1, apex radius below 10nm and cone angle below 3°can also be obtained through applying the optimal parameters. The high aspect ratio tips also make it advantageous to measure micro structure with steep side wall using scanning tunneling microscopy.