Lighting systems are one of the highest energy consumptions specifically in buildings. Thus, by designing energy efficient systems, it would contribute much to buildings energy savings. Therefore, this paper motivation is to review a number of lighting systems designs applied to many types of buildings. It is then so important to discover what methods and systems which have been proposed to save energy in buildings in term of lighting. By finding out what proposed systems are for different types of buildings, designers and respective researchers e.g., buildings engineers would find possibility and applicability of such lighting systems for certain types of buildings to achieve higher energy savings than some other systems when applied to the same types of buildings. Such a relation between reviewed lighting systems with types of buildings would be helpful for many researchers from different fields. There exist numerous factors that play an important role in achieving higher energy savings rate on which efficient energy lighting systems rely. This paper aims to review several types of lighting systems designs applied to different types of buildings. Additionally, performance(s) of lighting systems might vary depending on the design of the lighting system to achieve higher buildings' energy savings. In this review paper, several past studies that utilized Information and Communication Technology (ICT) from the perspective of energy Informatics for a smart lighting system that efficiently achieves energy savings have been considered. This paper has considered different types of lighting systems and types of buildings. Cited papers in this review paper are derived from six digital libraries which are: IEEE Xplore Digital Library, ScienceDirect, MDPI, Emerald Insight, ACM DL, and Taylor & Francis Online.


Randomized Trial the Diabetic Atherosclerosis Prevention by Cilostazol (DAPC) Study: A Atherosclerosis in Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus : Principal Results of The Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor Cilostazol Induces Regression of Carotid ISSN: 1524-4539 Copyright © 2010 American Heart Association. All rights reserved. Print ISSN: 0009-7322. Online 72514 Circulation is published by the American Heart Association. 7272 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX doi: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.109.892414 2010, 121:2584-2591: originally published online June 1, 2010 Circulation


In this work, a step channel stack oxide double gate (DG) TFET-based biosensor is proposed. The dielectric modulation of the device due to the presence of biomolecules is utilized for bio-sensing applications. This novel structure shows a high $\mathrm{I}_{ON}/I_{OFF}$ ratio $\boldsymbol{(> 10^{11})}$, low sub-threshold slope $\boldsymbol{(< 30\text{mV}/\text{dec})}$ and better sensitivity $(\sim 10^{3})$ to the presence of biomolecules. The sensitivity performance of the biosensor is analyzed by varying the dielectric constant corresponding to various biomolecules and thereby calculating the sensitivity. The presence of biomolecules near the source-channel junction influences the ON current of the device leading to better device sensing capabilities. The proposed structure is simulated using commercial TCAD software (Silvaco TCAD).


We demonstrate a 5 W, 65 fs single-mode Er fiber comb based on efficient pulse compression of gain-narrowed pulses from a chirped pulse amplification system. We generate two octaves of midinfrared with these pulses.


Three years have passed since B.C.G. vaccination of 13-year-old schoolchildren was first authorized in England and Wales, and, although this is not a long period in the epidemiology of tuberculosis, further information now available about vaccination, as well as the probable reduction in the risk of tuberculous infec tion since 1953, makes it of interest to inquire whether 13 years is the most suitable age at which to give the first, and in most cases the only, anti-tuberculosis vaccination under present conditions. To make an assessment of this kind, the current proportion of children infected with tubercle bacilli by the age of 13, the results of tuberculous infection acquired before that age, the risks of infection at puberty and adolescence, the duration of protection conferred by vaccination, and some other factors all need to be considered.


The foundations for a satisfactory identification are: (1) No deformation or spatial dislocation can be allowed to occur in the emulsion, the base, the section, or the slide after the exposure is finished. (2) At least two, if possible more points, corresponding to each other should be carefully localized in emulsion and section. (3) Identification of such points should be possible in a reproducable manner.


Virtual learning is implemented in various countries as solution to make education functional during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, there a lot of challenges that faced by the teachers. Suddenly change of teaching method make the task a lot difficult for teachers to adapt. The purpose of this study is to learn teachers' challenges in implementing virtual teaching they faced and the technology they used during the COVID-19 pandemic era. This study used a qualitative library research design, and all the data were collected using the World Wide Web. The first and the most important findings about teachers' challenges in implementing virtual teaching using technology are lack of skills, time management, and the negative attitude of teachers. The findings reveal that, most of the teachers are not prepared for virtual teaching as they are not being well trained to do the job. It can be certainly suggested that teachers are not comfortable with the abrupt changes from traditional teaching methods to technology-based teaching methods.


Earlier we had reviewed on the different classification methods of Polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS ,the work of Sir Petermann and Ibanez group in prepubarchal girls in PCOS and correlation with antimullerian hormone AMH amounts and different forms of therapy in PCOS.


The reappearance of the monkeypox virus in 2022 in 58 countries and Indonesia is no exception, which confirmed 1 case in patients post travelling abroad. The current monkeypox infection is still present, with symptoms that vary from person to person and are typically characterized by reddish rashes. Still, it is primarily confined to the genital, perigenital, and perianal areas. It manifests at various stages of development, in addition to transmission from animals caused by hunting activities or in LGBT ( Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) communities that have unprotected sex and can be infected through semen and saliva. This review aims to find a relationship between the increasing number of monkeypox cases, especially in LGBT community, based on the literature study approach and case reports. One of the non-medicamentous ways is to reduce travelling abroad, especially in countries with many monkeypox cases. Preventing direct contact, such as abstaining from sex and using condoms, is also a way to reduce the morbidity of monkeypox infection, especially in LGBT community. The treatment has not proven effective, and the available vaccines, especially in Indonesia, are still limited. Only a few cases in Indonesia have been reported.


The last decade has been marked by the development of the computer as a tool in almost every domain of human activity. One of the reasons for such a development was the introduction of human-friendly interfaces which have made computers easy to use and learn. The most successful interface paradigm so far has been the Xerox Parc Desktop metaphor popularized among computer users by the Macintosh. However, if the desktop metaphor is well suited to interacting with two-dimensional worlds, it starts to show limitations when interacting with three dimensional worlds. Recently, various specialized research programs on advanced concepts for human–machine interaction have focused on this problem and have gradually made possible the development of new input devices and displays for interacting with remote or computer generated worlds. Rather than keyboard input, interaction is based on voice, gesture and hand manipulation; displays are rethought to closely match human vision capabilities yielding in the development of head mounted or head coupled display concepts. The goal is to simulate operator presence in remote or computer synthesized worlds. In this chapter, we present this new interface metaphor, the perceptual and technological requirements to simulate it, 3D input devices and displays, and 3D interaction techniques.


The present invention provides a kind of device evaluating patient physiological condition, including processor and memorizer, processor and memorizer are arranged to make described device at least: receive blood testing data and run biosimulation model, including calculating one group of measured value being referred to as index, index is for weighing the mutual relation between hormone and blood testing data, between hormone and hormone or between hormone and organ;According to index by the axle of hormonal system along adaptation process in order from adrenocorticotropin axle to promoting gonad axis, to thyrotrophic hormone(TH) axle and finally to growth-promoting major axis analyzing hormonal system;Selection algorithm is run, to identify the origin that can participate in pathology in hormonal system and vegetative nervous system, to be formed and develop according to index;Thus produce about the how management and control maintenance to the basic system of patient of hormonal system and vegetative nervous system, and carry out tissue response to identify the overall point of view of biological function obstacle.


This paper deals with a combinatorial minimization problem arising from studies on multimodule memory organizations. Instead of searching for an optimum solution, a particular solution is proposed and it is demonstrated that it is close to optimum. Lower bounds for the objective functions are obtained and compared with the corresponding values of the particular solution. The maximum percentage deviation of this solution from optimum is also established.


This is a focused clinical vignette and review of the literature in MDS to discuss the application of molecular sequencing for risk stratification in MDS. The authors utilize an exemplar patient case and explain the advantages and disadvantages, based on available data, of routine use of this testing for MDS patients.


We consider the enumerable sets under the relation of quasi-reducibility. We rst give several results comparing the upper semilattice of enumer-able Q-degrees, hRQ;Q i, under this reducibility with the more familiar structure of the enumerable Turing degrees. In our nal section, we use coding methods to show that the elementary theory of hRQ;Q i is un-decidable.


Summary and conclusions 1) Activity of thyroid glands of dogs as determined by serum PBI and I131 uptake is not significantly altered during prolonged fasting or realimentation with diets high in carbohydrate. 2) The high systolic pressure and rapid pulse with low or normal diastolic pressure which is produced by a diet high in carbohydrate fed at the luxus consumption level of 120 cal/M2/hr after a prolonged fast is strikingly similar to the hemodynamic effect of thyroid powder but it is not due to increased thyroid activity according to the indices studied.


Perhaps the most important energy policy objective for South Africa is to provide increasing access to affordable energy services (DME 1998). The goal of 100% access to electricity is often re-stated (Mlambo-Ngcuka 2005; 2004; 2003). While overall electrification has increased from roughly one-third in 1990 to roughly two-thirds in 2004, the majority of the population in rural areas still remains without electric power. Increasingly, there is recognition that connections alone are not enough, and that the affordability of using electricity is critical. It was therefore decided by the government to provide a subsidy of 50 kWh per household per month of free electricity. Overall, the energy sector has performed well – relative to other sectors – in meeting development objectives.


Thin films of various thicknesses ranging from 100 μm down to 1390 A of an isotopic polystyrene blend were examined using small-angle neutron scattering. It was found that absolute scattering data with reasonable signal-to-noise could be obtained from single films as thin as 1390 A supported on single-crystal Si wafers by optimizing the neutron optics and by carefully eliminating background arising from the substrate. The wave vector dependence of the neutron scattering from all of the films examined could be described using the random phase approximation with the same Flory-Huggins interaction parameter and R G values as found in the bulk. No dependence of the scattering on film thickness was found. These results demonstrate that quantitative small-angle neutron scattering measurements can be obtained from single ultrathin films of polymer mixtures.


: High-intensity focused ultrasound ( HIFU ) can non-invasively irradiate inside the body. However, when used to treat fetuses, it can cause thermal burns of the mother ' s abdominal wall at the skin interface. This study was carried out to determine whether a modified HIFU transducer enabling split-aperture irradiation can prevent thermal burns. Two HIFU transducers were compared: a conventional transducer using full-aperture irradiation and a modified transducer using split-aperture irradiation. The modified transducer was divided into six sectors for split-aperture irradiation and had a larger surface area and a smaller F number ( focal length / aperture diameter ) than the conventional transducer. HIFU was delivered to eight sites on the left and right leg of a three-month-old baby pig under general anesthesia, and the sites were assessed for thermal burning by two or more derma-tologists. The same person performed all irradiations. Full-aperture irradiation with the conventional transducer caused deep dermal burns at all target sites, while split-aperture irradiation with the modified transducer caused only epidermal burns or superficial dermal burns. Split-aperture irradiation using a modified HIFU transducer with six sectors and a smaller F number reduces the severity of skin burns, and thus will improve the safety of HIFU therapy.


The implementation of Employee Assistance Programs has resulted in considerable savings for employers providing treatment for alcohol and drug abusing employees, at least in the short term. Despite these interventions, follow-up studies suggest that relapse and lowered productivity continue 10 generate substantial costs to the business sector. This article reviews the relevant EAP literature and highlights the efficacy and utility of implementing programs based upon cognitive problem-solving and social skills training in order to prevent relapse and maximize productivity. The case is made that such training can serve as cost-effective adjuncts to conventional treatment.


A supersymmetry model was investigated where the only light superparticles are weak gauginos. In such a model, the production of ~ 0 ~ 1 can be observed by its decay via a W and a Z boson to a nal state with 3 leptons and missing transverse energy. Samples were generated using Monte Carlo generators and multivariate techniques were used to optimize the signal selection. The results were interpreted as discovery and exclusion reaches for the 2012 search for this model. A similar study was performed for both the full LHC run and the proposed HL-LHC run and interpreted as discovery and exclusion reaches.


Rewilding modern agricultural cultivars by reintroducing beneficial ancestral traits is a proposed approach to improve sustainability of modern agricultural systems. In this study, we compared recruitment of the rhizosphere microbiome among modern inbred maize and wild teosinte to assess whether potentially beneficial plant microbiome traits have been lost through maize domestication and modern breeding. To do this, we surveyed the bacterial and fungal communities along with nitrogen cycling functional groups in the rhizosphere of 6 modern domesticated maize genotypes and ancestral wild teosinte genotypes, while controlling for environmental conditions and starting soil inoculum. Using a combination of high-throughput sequencing and quantitative PCR, we found that the rhizosphere microbiomes of modern inbred and wild teosinte differed substantially in taxonomic composition, species richness, and abundance of N-cycling functional genes. Furthermore, the modern vs wild designation explained 27% of the variation in the prokaryotic microbiome, 62% of the variation in N-cycling gene richness, and 66% of N-cycling gene abundance. Surprisingly, we found that modern inbred genotypes hosted microbial communities with higher taxonomic and functional gene diversity within their microbiomes compared to ancestral genotypes. These results imply that modern maize and wild maize differ in their interaction with N-cycling microorganisms in the rhizosphere and that genetic variation exists within Zea to potentially 'rewild' microbiome-associated traits (i.e., exudation, root phenotypes, etc.).


The utility model discloses a seamless transition module from an MDIO (management data input output) bus slave computer to an SPI (serial peripheral interface) bus, which comprises an FPGA (field programmable gate array), wherein the FPGA is respectively connected with a system planar and an MCU (micro control unit) of an optical module. According to the seamless transition module provided by the utility model, the switching over of the system planar and the MCU of the optical module is realized by the FPGA; by utilizing the programmable characteristic of the FPGA, the analysis of an MDIO bus interface can be realized, thus data streams received by the MDIO bus slave computer can be decoded and converted to be output by an SPI host computer interface, and the data streams received by the SPI host computer can be decoded and converted to be output by the MDIO bus slave computer. According to the seamless transition module, the timing sequence requirement of an MDIO protocol can be met and realized, and the SPI interface is realized by a plurality of main stream MCUs, thus the protocol requirement of the optical module can be realized by a universal MCU and the control requirement can be finished.


PurposeLearning at the local level is an important contributor to safe and resilient communities. The purpose of this article is therefore to explore what motivates municipalities in Norway to learn from disasters and how they learn from them. This purpose has been fulfilled by (1) addressing the process of learning from disasters occurring within municipalities, and (2) learning from disasters in other municipalities, in particular from the terrorist incidents that occurred in Oslo on 22 July 2011.Design/methodology/approachAn interview study was conducted of individuals responsible for municipal emergency preparedness.FindingsUnwanted events that occur outside municipal borders only trigger learning processes if they are geographically proximate. Events occurring within the geographical borders of the municipality represent greater potential for learning than those occurring outside its borders. Availability of resources for municipal civil protection activities is another factor that has an impact on learning.Originality/valueThe local level plays a key role in generating and maintaining adequate civil protection and emergency preparedness in society. Although the literature on learning from disasters is extensive, learning processes at the local level have been given little attention. This article thus contributes to the existing body of knowledge by studying learning processes following disasters at the local level.


Goaded by a massive $16 billion trade deficit, the Reagan Administration is again trying to pry open the Japanese market for American goods. Two thirds of that figure is attributed to imports of Japanese cars and parts, despite earlier "voluntary" reductions. The underlying issue is equality of access to each other's market, and the issue becomes more contentious with each periodic trade dispute. The objective of any trade policy ought to be growth with equity. In the 1960s, this was partially accomplished by tariff reductions. Indeed, the "Kennedy Round" led some observers to contend that "tariffs have become the most important tool of commercial policy in use today."' In the 1980s, however, the focus is increasingly on nontariff barriers. In 1981, Japan held 90 percent of the US motorcycle market, more than 50 percent of the American radio market, 20 percent plus of the auto and television market, and ten to 15 percent of the steel market. Yet the United States lacked even ten percent of the market for any product in Japan2 largely (or so it is claimed) because of the consequences of nontariff barriers such as custom valuations, government procurement, health and safety standards, and other classification devices which restrict the volume of imports into Japan. Does US business have fair access to the Japanese market? The current "party line" in Japan argues that Japan is as open as any other modern industrialized nation, and that only an American lack of marketing knowhow prevents greater imports into Japan. This essay will attempt to evaluate the accessibility of Japanese markets to foreign imports, and the role that adequate or inadequate marketing skills play in opening up those markets. The analysis ends by suggesting a few courses of action for the future. In the early postwar decades, Japan was totally protectionist in all international economic interactions. Trade, capital inflows, and foreign exchange were all closely monitored and regulated. Japan


We show that the insertion of thin interfacial layers of pyronin B between the conjugated polymer-methanofullerene blend and Al electrode enhances the open-circuit voltage (Voc) and short-circuit current density (Jsc). The cells based on blends of poly[2-methoxy,5-(3',7'-dimethyl-octyloxy)]-p-phenylene vinylene (MDMO-PPV) and [6,6]-phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) with the pyronin B layer (~ 1.5 nm) shows Voc~0.86 V, Jsc~3.36 mA/cm2 and the power conversion efficiency of ~1.46 % under white light photoexcitation of about 80 mW/cm2, similar to the effect of thin LiF layer. Compared to cells without the Pyronin B layer, the power conversion efficiency increases up to about 40 %. Similar effect is also obtained in poly(3-octylthiophene) (P3OT)-PCBM blends. The increased solar cell performance can be attributed to enhanced carrier extraction efficiency at the polymer blend/Al interfaces when pyronin B was inserted. This effect is considered as the reduced Al work function with the thin Pyronin B interfacial layer.


Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a common genetic disorder characterized by the progressive development of renal and hepatic cysts. Follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) has been demonstrated to be a trophic factor for biliary cells in normal rats and experimental cholestasis induced by bile duct ligation (BDL).


The research project, developed on the basis of a personal long-standing experience of archaeological investigation in the urban context of Porto Torres, in the north-west Sardinia, has opened new knowledge about the history and topographic changes of the city and allowed to test digital tools for the protection of cultural heritage and urban planning through the ex novo study, reinterpretation, standardization, communication and sharing of archaeological data.
Outcome of the evolution of the urban body began with the founding of the Colonia Iulia Turris Libisonis after the middle of the first century. B.C., in a territory already deeply marked by the indigenous settlement, the contemporary city of Porto Torres is one of the most complex archaeological context and one of the areas of most intense experimentation of urban archeology in Sardinia. The Archaeological Information System of Porto Torres led to the digitalization of archival and published data , and the transition from symbolic representation to the floor plan of the archaeological remains.
The experimentation of the Italian Archeological Information System (SITAN) parameters within the project 'Creation and activation of Sardinian pole of national IT network for the collective construction of WEB GIS of the archaeological Italian heritage ' represented a further step to a real and structured collaboration between all entities engaged in the research and protection of archaeological heritage


The purpose of this study was the prioritization and comparison of technical background criteria in the selection of Iran's national table tennis coach from the perspectives of sport elites. Method of this research was descriptive and survey kind. The study population were about 100 table tennis sport elites of whom 80 subjects were randomly selected based on Morgan table. Technical background criteria for national coach selection were based on McLean and Zakrajsk model. This questionnaire was provided with 7 items. The views of ten sport management professors were used for determining the content validity. To determine the reliability coefficient, Cronbach's Alpha of 0.968 was used. These data were analyzed in both descriptive and inferential statistical. Descriptive statistics was used for description of demographic and inferential statistics was including Friedman Anova test for rating criteria and Kruskal-Wallis test for hypothesis and these data were analyzed using Spss software. The highest rank is for "Goodwill work and the lack of bad records in the past" and the lowest rank is for "Enough experience coaching in league and tournaments. There was no significant difference among sport elites to prioritize & compare of technical background criteria in the selection of Iran's national table tennis coach (P>0.05).


In order to adapt the need of innovative,compound and applied talents training,according to the actual situation of Heilongjiang Agricultural Vocational and Technical College,plant tissue cultivation teaching reform was studied,including the traditional teaching mode and method,adopt teaching mode of the " work-integrated learning",strengthen the practice teaching link,use a variety of teaching methods and examination way,and pay attention to manipulative ability and comprehensive quality enhancement of the students so as to achieve good teaching effect.


In recent years, as the economy of Uzbekistan develops, he has been actively promoting structural economic reforms and modernization of the bank's functioning to improve the standard of living and well-being of people. It is necessary to study methods of improving the structure of the economic security rating based on increasing the level of financial stability of the bank. The purpose of the article is to develop theoretical aspects and practical recommendations for the development of methods to ensure the economic security of the bank. Methods and techniques of probability theory and mathematical statistics, as well as econometric modeling are used in the development of this problem. The article considers the probability of an event, which consists in the fact that the bank will be safe for a certain period of time in order to function taking into account the influence of random factors, i.e. regularly and timely perform all functions, as well as by modeling the parameters of the equations it becomes possible to monitor and predict the economic security of the bank in the future. Conclusions: In recent years, the bank's economic security rating in Uzbekistan has shown an upward trend, as evidenced by the bank's financial stability forecasting methodology, according to which the bank's economic security is determined by the probability of an event consisting in being able to function safely for a certain period of time, taking into account the impact of random parameters, and according to the results of the study, appropriate forecast recommendations and proposals for decision makers have been prepared, it is necessary to take into account the adjustment of banking services, as well as the level and structure of the bank's economic security rating. Improvements: This study attempts to create a system of indicators for assessing the bank's economic security rating. In addition, an empirical study is being conducted to assess the rating of ensuring the economic security of the bank and the banking services sector. Based on empirical research, proposals are put forward from the point of view of the existing form of banking services and the use of information technologies in order to determine the rating of ensuring the economic security of the bank and optimizing the structure of banking services.


gratifying for, of 117 patients, only one died. Surprising also seemed the claim of a cure in one-third of all the patients with Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome. Werner of Berlin regards tetracycline as the drug of choice in pertussis. Antibiotics are given to young infants and toddlers with the aim of preventing complications. J. Sutherland's article on chemotherapy in the newborn contains an interesting approach to the problem of dosage based on studies of streptomycin clearance. Very useful are the chapters on the side-effects of the antibiotics and a concise but relatively comprehensive survey of the individual antibiotics regarding antibacterial activity, administration, absorption, and excretion. The list of references at the end of each chapter is well chosen and up to date. The print is pleasing and the diagrams clear but the captions occasionally too brief, with the exception of Fig. 2 covering pages 90 and 91 relating the number of rheumatic fever relapses to continued penicillin prophylaxis, which has none. This is a timely and very helpful manual of antibiotic treatment. To the younger paediatrician and to the family doctor it offers a well of sound information that will readily guide him through the maze of modern antibiotics.


In this paper we first provide a literature review about the economics of online music. Second, we then present an economical model for online music by incorporating various parameters such as the price of a legal download, as well as parameters taking into account the quality and security risk associated with purchasing or copying music form the Internet. Furthermore, we incorporate legal and technological parameters in our model, such as law enforcement and its underlying penalties, as well as rights and usage restrictions enforced through so called Digital Rights Management Systems. We then present the optimal choice for a consumer for purchasing online music with the presence of online piracy. Finally, we discuss three possible scenarios. By using empirical numerical values we establish a link between our model and practical application. Each scenario is discussed in detail and we conclude that content providers should either demand a higher price but not restrict consumers or demand a lower price but restrict consumers more. However, doing both does not seem to motive consumers to purchase online music but rather copying it.


In the past few years, there have been numerous demonstrations of neural networks outperforming traditional signal processing methods in communications, notably for Automatic Modulation Classification (AMC). Despite the increase in accuracy, these algorithms are notoriously infeasible for integrating into edge computing applications. In this work, we propose an enhanced version of a simple neural network pruning technique, Iterative Magnitude Pruning (IMP), called Feedback Magnitude Pruning (FMP) and demonstrate its effectiveness for the "Lightning-Fast Modulation Classification with Hardware-Effficient Neural Network" 2021 AI for Good: Machine Learning in 5G Challenge hosted by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and Xilinx. IMP achieved a compression ratio of 9.313, while our proposed FMP achieved a compression ratio of 831 and normalized cost of 0.0419. Our FMP result was awarded second place, demonstrating the compression and classification accuracy benefits of pruning with feedback.


This study examined emulsions with two different mean droplet diameters under steady and oscillatory shear flow. Because the emulsions had a very low dispersity ξ<0.41 (meaning that they were nearly unimodal), the influence of droplet size alone on the rheological behavior could be determined. For emulsions with equivalent concentrations tested at equivalent shear rates, the emulsion containing droplets with x=1 μm exhibited higher shear stress values than the emulsion with droplet diameters x=20 μm. Up to a concentration c v =40 vol%, the difference in the shear stress function was observed over the entire shear rate range. The difference in the shear stress functions was largest at low shear rates. The oscillatory experiments yielded results consistent with the steady shear experiments, i.e., the complex shear modulus of the 1-μm-emulsions was greater than that of the 20-μm-emulsion at a constant oscillatory frequency. A nearly constant increase in the complex shear modulus with frequency was observed over a wide range of concentration; as a result the difference in the moduli was nearly constant over the frequency range examined.


Phosphatidylserine exposure on the surface of the red cell membrane initiates the process of eryptosis, the red cell death program. The 4.1R protein is a phosphatidylserine binding protein. In this article, the authors demonstrate that erythrocytes from two patients with 4.1R deficiency show alterations of other proteins of the 4.1 multicomplex such as CD44 and CD47 and significantly increased phosphatidylserine exposure, suggesting a role for 4.1 protein in a signaling pathway relevant for red cell turnover. Background Protein 4.1R is an important component of the red cell membrane skeleton. It imparts structural integrity and has transmembrane signaling roles by direct interactions with transmembrane proteins and other membrane skeletal components, notably p55 and calmodulin. Design and Methods Spontaneous and ligation-induced phosphatidylserine exposure on erythrocytes from two patients with 4.1R deficiency were studied, using CD47 glycoprotein and glycophorin C as ligands. We also looked for protein abnormalities in the 4.1R - based multiprotein complex. Results Phosphatidylserine exposure was significantly increased in 4.1R-deficient erythrocytes obtained from the two different individuals when ligands to CD47 glycoprotein were bound. Spontaneous phosphatidylserine exposure was normal. 4.1R, glycophorin C and p55 were missing or sharply reduced. Furthermore there was an alteration or deficiency of CD47 glycoprotein and a lack of CD44 glycoprotein. Based on a recent study in 4.1R-deficient mice, we found that there are clear functional differences between interactions of human red cell 4.1R and its murine counterpart. Conclusions Glycophorin C is known to bind 4.1R, and we have defined previously that it also binds CD47. From our evidence, we suggest that 4.1R plays a role in the phosphatidylserine exposure signaling pathway that is of fundamental importance in red cell turnover. The linkage of CD44 to 4.1R may be relevant to this process.


Since 1 March 2006, all tobacco products manufactured or imported into Australia have been required to be sold in packaging that includes the new graphic picture-based warnings (http://www.quitnow.info.au/warnings/warnings.htm).

However, a month before the regulation came into effect a tobacco company …


Category: Bunion Introduction/Purpose: First ray arthrodesis or osteotomy is a day surgery procedure performed commonly under general anaesthetic. One of the aims with such procedures is to ensure our patients are discharged on the day of surgery and are relatively pain free on discharge. This is often achieved by the use of local anaesthetic blockades, either as an ankle block or as a metatarsal block. There are studies published on the effectiveness of ankle block for first ray surgery but there is a dearth of studies on metatarsal block. Therefore the aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of ankle block versus metatarsal block in conjunction to general anaesthetic for first ray surgery. Methods: Both local trust board approval and National Research Ethics Committee approval were granted for the study. Statistical analysis to ensure an adequately powered study was performed. Fifty patients undergoing arthrodesis or osteotomy of the first ray were recruited into this study and randomly allocated to the cohort to receive either a metatarsal block or an ankle block. All patients had general anaesthesia. Those patients randomized to ankle block had this performed after induction of general anaesthesia using ultrasonography. Those patients randomized to metatarsal block had this performed at the end of the operative procedure. Patients scored their pain level using a visual analogue scale (0-10) at 2, 6 and 24 hours. A physiotherapist, who was blinded to their treatment arm, assessed patients at hourly intervals from two hours. Patients were contacted by telephone by a research nurse, who was also blinded to their treatment arm, over 24 hours from discharge. Results: Forty-eight patients completed the study: 25 in the ankle block treatment arm and 23 in the metatarsal block arm. The majority of the patients were female (44 patients) with an average age of 53 years (range 31-76 years). Analysis of pain scores showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups at any of the measured time periods. Analysis of their analgesic requirement in the first 24 hours after surgery again revealed no striking difference between the two cohorts. Similarly analysis of the time taken to safely mobilise revealed that there was no difference between the two groups. However analysis of the time taken to perform the anaesthesia highlighted a mean addition of eleven minutes when an ultrasound guided ankle block was performed. Conclusion: This prospective randomised blinded study demonstrates that metatarsal blocks are just as effective in giving post- operative analgesia as ultrasound guided ankle blocks in patients undergoing first ray surgery under general anaesthetic.


The incidence and the frequency of endemic (non-outbreak) waterborne disease is unknown, but thought to be much higher than outbreak reporting, which is in turn uncertain, would suggest.[1] Further, the frequency and occurrence of frank pathogens in potable water distribution systems is likewise undetermined.[2] Finally, the etiology of most waterborne disease, even from outbreaks, is largely unknown.[3-5] The collaborators have developed a protocol to culture frank pathogens at densities much lower than standard techniques. The protocol was tested in small, rural potable water systems in Puerto Rico and samples were also analyzed for standard microbiological indicators. At the same time two other studies were undertaken – one to educe the incidence of diarrheal disease in these systems and the other to elicit the efficacy of operator training on the occurence of indicators, pathogens and the occurence of diarrheal disease. Results of these studies are presented.


An antenna diversity for satellite digital audio radio systems (SDARS) was implemented as a first hardware demonstrator and tested. Proof is shown that for critical reception scenarios for example underneath dense foliage or in multipath situations between high buildings the antenna diversity yields a significant reduction of the bit error rate (BER). Full diversity function is achieved with no additional effort in mounting and required space for the antennas. Only one antenna line is used and one tuner as in conventional single arm receiving systems is employed.


Thermooxidatively stable amorphous poly(dicyanopyrazine ether)s with high glass transition temperatures are synthesized and converted into poly(aryl ether)s bearing covalently bound zinc(II) 2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octaphenyltetrapyrazinoporphyrazine units. They are soluble in common organic solvents and can be cast into strong and flexible films. The maximum absorption wavelength of the poly(aryl ether)s bearing zinc (II) 2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octaphenyltetrapyrazinoporphyrazine units in chloroform is 654 nm. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.


A new method to determinate the degree of hydrolysis(DH) of protein hydrolysate was established in this paper. Defatted soybean flour was used as substrate and fermented by a microorganism strain which could yield proteinase. The soybean protein in defatted soybean was hydrolyzed into soybean peptides under the effect of proteinase secreted from the microorganism strain. DH of soybean protein in fermented broth of different fermentation time was determined by the new method and the data was compared with what derived from routine method reported in document. Results showed that the new method established in this paper was rapid, simple, sensitive and repeatable. It could be used to measure the DH of soybean peptides hydrolyzate fermented by microorganism and also the DH of protein hydrolyzate resulted by other technology.


Background The double‐bladed scalpel previously has not been cited in the published literature for use in Mohs micrographic surgery. Objective To allow for maximum tissue conservation and greatest possible intraoperative efficiency for peripheral margin control of a massive tumor. Methods We describe the use of the double‐bladed scalpel during Mohs surgery for peripheral margin control of a large dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP). Results and conclusion While not necessary for the majority of routine Mohs cases, utilization of the double‐bladed scalpel may be timesaving, especially when used for peripheral margin control of a massive tumor.


This paper adjusts and applies NS model of cellular automata model to the Bus Rapid Transit System in Guangzhou(Guangzhou BRT).Based on the NS model,we designed BRT model.Taking the real situation into account,it is reasonable to use open boundary condition in the model.This paper analyses the effect of change of velocity,location,traffic lights,BRT stations and open boundary condition on bus entry and quit.After using this model to analyze the data we investigated,we conclude that in rush hours,the dispatching center can send out more buses on the road(up to 900)to improve the road efficiency.


Transfer treaties are given authority under the U.S. Constitution's Supremacy Clause. (1) These treaties are in place to allow prisoners serving sentences in foreign countries the opportunity to serve the remainder of their sentence in their home country. (2) In Bender v. United States Parole Commission, (3) the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit was pressed with the issue of examining whether the release date, on its face, illegally exceeded the statutory allowance under 18 U.S.C.A. [section] 4106A ([section] 4106A), which states, the release date "shall not exceed the term of imprisonment imposed by the foreign court on that offender." (4) The Court held that a release date provided by the United States Parole Commission (the Commission) is permissible under the statutory language and is in accordance with the purpose of the Council of Europe Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons (the European Transfer Treaty), to which Costa Rica is a party. (5) On July 25, 2005, Anthony Bender (Bender), a U.S. citizen, invited M.J. (the Victim), a twenty-four-year-old student, to take a ride with him to downtown Puerto Jiminez, Costa Rica. (6) He met the Victim earlier that day and invited her to an establishment called Juanita. (7) Instead of driving to Juanita, Bender raced home, grabbed the Victim and forced her into the house, where he violently beat and raped her. (8) Eventually, the Victim escaped and hid in a swamp area until a guard found her. (9) In 2006, a Costa Rican Tribunal convicted Bender of three counts of rape and sentenced him to thirty years in prison. (10) In 2012, Bender applied for a transfer pursuant to the European Transfer Treaty to serve the remainder of his sentence in the United States. (11) After transferring Bender, the Commission assigned a probation officer to conduct a Post-Sentence Investigation Report (PSR) to calculate his offender level based on the details of the crime and history of the offender; Bender's level was determined to be forty-three. (12) In an effort to recommend a release date, the probation officer conducting the PSR was responsible for looking to the United States Sentencing Guidelines Manual (Sentencing Guidelines) and recommending a sentencing period based on Bender's offender level. (13) The probation officer's determination also included any sentence reducetion Bender may have received because of the severe abuse he experienced while imprisoned in Costa Rica. (14) After receiving the PSR recommendation, the Commission held a hearing to determine the Bender's release date. (15) The Hearing Examiner noted Bender might be eligible for an earlier release date based on the severe abuse he received in prison. (16) The Commission, however, held, in light of the details of the offense, Bender would be released after serving 360 months in prison and a period of supervised release for five years, or until the expiration of Bender's Costa Rican sentence, whichever happened first. (17) Bender appealed the Commission's determination of release, arguing the "five years of supervised release or until the expiration of the foreign sentence" exceeded the statutory maximum that the European Transfer Treaty and [section] 4106A(b)(l)(A) allows. (18) Transfer treaties, like the European Transfer Treaty, unify countries by providing prisoners convicted abroad the opportunity to serve their remaining sentence in their home country. (19) The United States has entered into these treaties for purposes of protecting its citizens. (20) In an effort to maintain foreign relations, the United States agrees to be bound by the nature and duration of the sentence that the original sentencing country imposed. (21) Not every person sentenced abroad can transfer; in order to do so, they must meet conditions such as giving consent to transfer, the sentence they are serving must be final, and six months of their sentence has already been served. (22) Once the prisoner is transferred, the process for determining their release date requires a probation officer to conduct a PSR. …


The process of people's investment in work and family roles is poorly understood. Traditionally, investment in such roles has been considered the product of utilitarian motives. An alternative perspective, derived from social identity theory, suggests that identity salience determines this investment. Proponents of the two approaches differ in describing sources of work-family conflict and methods of achieving work-family balance. Despite the competing predictions of the two approaches future research on the moderating effects of gender, life stage, and culture may prove fruitful for researchers who wish to elaborate upon an integrated model.


The paper focuses on a comparative analysis of the approaches to interregional cooperation used by two Spanish regions: the Basque Country and Catalonia. The main strategic documents which set the goals, tasks and directions of the autonomous regions in interregional cooperation are considered. Factors that shape the principles of the regions in developing interregional links are described. Spanish legislation which lays foundation for interregional action of the Basque Country and Catalonia is reviewed. Particular attention is paid to the key vectors of partnership between the Spanish and French territories in the framework of two Euroregions: New Aquitaine-Basque Country-Navarre and Pyrenees-Mediterranean. In addition, the main tasks stipulated in the Programme of the Catalan Presidency in the interregional association the Four Motors for Europe are examined. Furthermore, the paper identifies the role of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals in the hierarchy of priorities for interregional action in both regions. As a result of the research, similarities and differences in the approaches to interregional cooperation used by the Basque Country and Catalonia are underscored.


1. Barker TM, Earwaker WJ, Lisle DA. Accuracy of stereolithographic models of human anatomy. Australas Radiol. 1994;38: 106–111. 2. Cunningham LL Jr, Madsen MJ, Peterson G. Stereolithographic modeling technology applied to tumor resection. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2005;63:873–878. 3. Bell RB, Markiewicz MR. Computer-assisted planning, stereolithographic modeling, and intraoperative navigation for complex orbital reconstruction: A descriptive study in a preliminary cohort. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2009;67:2559– 2570. 4. Ro EY, Ridge JA, Topham NS. Using stereolithographic models to plan mandibular reconstruction for advanced oral cavity cancer. Laryngoscope 2007;117:759–761. 5. Al-Sukhun J, Törnwall J, Lindqvist C, Kontio R, Penttila H. One-stage zygomaticomandibular approach for improved access to the hemimaxilla and the middle base of the skull. J Craniofac Surg. 2008;19:528–533. Introduction of an Individualized Palatal Splint for Wound Protection after Cleft Palate Repair Sir: S ince the early 1800s, palatal repair in children with cleft lip has become a routine procedure, although different surgical techniques and postoperative regimens are used. Not much has been published about the influence of the early postoperative regimen. Different risk factors for early postoperative wound breakdown have been described. One factor is premature hard food intake, and another factor is the direct manipulation by the child himself or herself in the wound area.1 Another important factor for an early postoperative healing problem is the formation of hematoma, which may lead to failure of adequate wound healing, with subsequent oronasal fistula. In addition, surgical intervention with areas of secondary healing and intraoral stitches puts extraordinary stress on a small child. Although contrary reports have been published,2 most surgeons still use different methods to prevent early wound breakdown. One possibility is a strict postoperative food regimen.1 Another important measure is the prevention of direct manipulation by the child in the operated region, mostly with some form of arm restraints. A survey by Katzel et al. in 2009 showed that 85 percent of 306 cleft surgeons used some form of arm restraints, usually for 2 weeks.3,4 Another possibility of wound protection would be packing the wound surface with iodine gauze pack or using tongue depressors.5 Most of these postoperative methods are associated with a lot of discomfort for both the child and the parents. In this article, a simple and inexpensive method of protecting the wound surface postoperatively is presented. Wound protection with simultaneous administration of moderate pressure onto the different layers is achieved by using a thermoplastic tailorable splint (XLite; Allenspach Medical, Balsthal, Switzerland), made of a lightweight, low-temperature thermoplastic cotton mesh, impregnated with a copolymer. The material is nontoxic and biodegradable, and can easily be fixed in the oral cavity with three nonresorbable sutures (Ethilon; Johnson & Johnson Medical GmbH, Norderstedt, Germany). After cutting an adequate size piece of the splint material and warming it in water at the end of the surgical intervention, the splint is fabricated directly in the oral cavity for perfect fit (Fig. 1). If required, a hemostatic interface can be put in between the splint and the wound surface. The splint is removed on postoperative day 4 on the ward or in the outpatient setting by cutting the three sutures. There are several advantages to using this tailorable splint:


The central nervous system (CNS) is strongly implicated in cardiovascular disease development including hypertension. In particular, alterations in the subfornical organ (SFO), a forebrain sensory circumventricular nucleus located outside of the blood‐brain‐barrier, is directly associated with hypertension in response to elevations in the hormone angiotensin‐II (Ang‐II). From a circuitry perspective, SFO excitatory neurons that project to the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN; hereafter referred to as SFO to PVN) have been suggested to be critical in the development of Ang‐II hypertension. While most investigations have focused on functional mechanisms, little attention has been paid to anatomical synaptic reorganization of SFO to PVN circuits during hypertension development. Thus, we aimed to characterize SFO to PVN synaptic input during hypertension development and further delineate molecular mechanisms involved. Male C57Bl/6J mice were infused with Ang‐II (600 ng/kg/min) for 14 days. Immunohistochemistry in the PVN following Ang‐II infusion revealed elevations in synaptophysin, pointing to overall increases in synaptic innervation of this nucleus (100 ± 1 vs. 112 ± 2 density/area, day 0 vs day 14, n=3/group, p<0.05). Given the strong link between SFO to PVN neurons in cardiovascular regulation, we next focused on the SFO. Our recent work demonstrated a key role for SFO insulin receptors in blood pressure regulation, and therefore, we determined if insulin receptors are expressed on SFO to PVN neurons using retrograde cholera toxin B tracing from the PVN. Immunohistochemistry revealed clear expression of insulin receptors on SFO to PVN neurons. Building on this, we and others have characterized a novel neural tissue‐enriched epidermal growth factor repeat domain containing protein (NELL2) that is involved in axonal projections and synaptic reorganization. Importantly, NELL2 has been suggested to be a downstream signaling molecule of neurotropic receptors, such as insulin receptors. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry confirmed the expression of NELL2 in the SFO, and further demonstrated elevated SFO NELL2 during Ang‐II hypertension (100 ± 5 vs. 137 ± 15 density/area, day 0 vs day 14, n=3‐4, p<0.05). Interestingly, co‐immunohistochemistry indicated that the majority of SFO insulin receptor cells express NELL2. Finally, to determine functional crosstalk between insulin receptors and NELL2, we utilized in vitro cell culture experiments. Hippocampal HT22 cells were transfected with a NELL2‐luciferase dependent vector and insulin was administrated into the medium. Insulin stimulated NELL2 gene transcription in a dose‐dependent manner (e.g. 174 and 196% increase relative to vehicle, 100 and 1000 nM insulin respectively, n=3/group, p<0.05). Collectively, these results indicate increased PVN synaptic innervation during hypertension. Moreover, they point to an SFO insulin receptor‐NELL2 network that may be involved in Ang‐II hypertension development, potentially via reorganization of SFO to PVN synaptic circuits.


Data restoration is a difficult problem not yet solved. Many file systems manages basic storage unit in concentration. Storage of common file systems such as FAT, NTFS, LINUX, NETWARE is managed in RAW mode. There is no particular tag and serial number. Fragment of file causes unordered distribution of storage units of file so that once file allocation table (FAT) is lost, data is unable to be recovered even data in disk are accessible. Based on conception of section for treating IP packets, the invention puts forward applicable scheme: based on General Data Storage Protocol (GDSP), a packet head of file is packaged to each storage unit of disk to organize fragment of file effectively. Not only depending on FAT, the invention is capable of recovering data caused by logic fault. GDSP treats directory of each operating system as a file in current operating system.


DOI: 10.5935/abc.20180134 The study by Wu et al.1 questions the value of carotid sinus massage (CSM) for the investigation of syncope. It was well conducted, with two reasonably equivalent groups, with and without previous syncope, submitted to the same type of bilateral CSM, under rigorous evaluation of symptoms, cardiac rhythm and blood pressure. The authors found no difference in the response to CSM between the two groups. They concluded that CSM in the assessment of unexplained syncope would be a nonspecific and dubious diagnostic method. The results are clear and well structured. We agree with the authors' conclusion about the study findings. The limitations suggested are rightful. There is no doubt that CSM is an empiric method, of uncertain results, and this type of study serves to alert to its drawbacks. However, why is CSM still included in the guidelines? Certainly because it is a simple, well-tolerated, low-cost, low-risk procedure as long as the technique and the contraindications are respected, and can be performed rapidly during tilt-test, establishing the diagnosis in up to 30% of elderly patients with syncope of unknown origin.2 However, as any other investigative method, it has important limitations that should be addressed cautiously. It is worth noting that the response to CSM depends on several investigator's and patient's factors, having value only when positive, when reproducing the spontaneous symptoms and when the patient's clinical findings are compatible with reflex syncope. In addition, it has no power of exclusion. Thus, despite these drawbacks, CSM continues valid according to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines, which consider it is indicated as class I, level of evidence B, for patients older than 40 years of age with syncope of unknown origin compatible with reflex origin.3 The diagnosis of carotid sinus syndrome (CSS) is confirmed if the CSM causes bradycardia (asystole) and/or hypotension that reproduce the spontaneous symptoms, and if the patients have clinical features compatible with the reflex mechanism of syncope, class I, level of evidence B. Although neurological complications are rare, the maneuver should be avoided in patients who already had an ischemic stroke, have a carotid murmur or important carotid vasculopathy. The history of syncope with positive CSM reproducing the symptoms confirms the diagnosis of CSS. However, a positive CSM without a history of syncope characterizes carotid sinus hypersensitivity, which, in elderly patients with unexplained syncope, can be a nonspecific finding and should be considered cautiously in the assessment of the syncope mechanism, because it is present in up to 40% of the cases.4


The determination of the physicochemical forms of radioiodine in the gas-air environment of an industrial nuclear reactor is necessary to solve related problems – technological control and radiation safety. In the technological context, the results obtained make it possible to adequately assess the efficiency of purification of emissions of radioactive iodine isotopes, the choice of instruments and methods for controlling emissions. In the context of radiation safety, research results make it possible to correctly assess the radiation effects on the environment and humans, substantiation of emission standards for the atmosphere and confirmation of the safety of operation of an industrial reactor installation. The research method is based on the difference in the deposition of radioiodine on a set of one AFA-RMP aerosol filter and six filters of the AFA-SI type, which makes it possible to separately determine the 131I aerosol, easily and hardly sorbed form. It has been shown that the non-purified gas-aerosol mixture mainly contains radioactive iodine in the form of gaseous hardly adsorbed compounds. For 131I, the most probable percentage in volumetric activity of hardly adsorbed, easily adsorbed compounds and iodine aerosols was obtained. Based on the data obtained, an assessment of dose loads was carried out taking into account the annual emissions of the reactor installation and weather conditions. A conservative approach to assessing the radiation exposure of 131I emissions is 47 times higher than the assessment taking into account its physicochemical forms.


ABSTRACT A measure of health based on exact sciences is not considered by social sciences to evaluate human development. We propose the H measure of information of Shannon ([1948]. "A Mathematical Theory of Communication." The Bell Systems Technical Journal 27 (3): 379–423, 623–656), renamed as H cto , as a general indicator of human health which can be subsequently aggregated at any statistical level. Several advantages of H cto are explained: (i) connections with thermodynamics and information theory; (ii) combination of physical and statistical elements; (iii) measurements of entropy and/or information depending on the reference point, and (iv) a collection of examples based on the scientific literature that supports the application of H cto . Simplified graphical models of the ontogeny of health condition are also shown. The empirical feasibility of using H cto is also analysed, by concluding that it could be a tangible reality in the near future.


Submitted for the MAR13 Meeting of The American Physical Society Kibble-Zurek Scaling and String-Net Coarsening in Topologically Ordered Systems1 VEDIKA KHEMANI, ANUSHYA CHANDRAN, Princeton University, F.J. BURNELL, All Souls College, Oxford, S.L. SONDHI, Princeton University — We consider the non-equilibrium dynamics of topologically ordered systems, such as spin liquids, driven across a continuous phase transition into proximate phases with no, or reduced, topological order. This dynamics exhibits scaling in the spirit of Kibble and Zurek but now without the presence of symmetry breaking and a local order parameter. The non-equilibrium dynamics near the critical point is universal in a particular scaling limit. The late stages of the process are seen to exhibit slow, quantum coarsening dynamics for the extended string-nets characterizing the topological phase, a potentially interesting signature of topological order. Certain gapped degrees of freedom that could potentially destroy coarsening are, at worst, dangerously irrelevant in the scaling limit. We also note a time dependent amplification of the energy splitting between topologically degenerate states on closed manifolds. We illustrate these phenomena in the context of particular phase transitions out of the abelian Z2 topologically ordered phase of the toric code, and the non-abelian SU(2)k ordered phases of the relevant Levin-Wen models. 1This research was supported in part by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. NSF PHY11-25915 and DMR 10-06608. Vedika Khemani Princeton University Date submitted: 27 Dec 2012 Electronic form version 1.4


The last two years have witnessed a surge in attention to the issue of sexual assault in higher education. Campus rape has become the subject of new legislation, inspired a White House task force, and dominated news headlines. Yet largely neglected in this growing national conversation is one critical reality: gender-based violence has costs, and these costs constitute a gender-based barrier to student victims' educational access, one that implicates the equality mandate at the heart of Title IX.

This Feature documents the centrality of these financial harms to the educational barriers women and other student survivors face, arguing that if one hopes to guarantee gender equity in education, Title IX must be understood to allow for recovery of costs attributable to this discrimination. Yet while the administrative agency tasked with enforcing Title IX has long recognized schools' obligations to do just that, the agency has struggled in practice to enforce them. This Feature identifies these enforcement gaps before concluding with several administrative and congressional proposals for reform.


AS EARLY as 1928, Papanicolaou 1 demonstrated that malignant tumors of the uterus could be recognized by cytologic examination of vaginal fluid. The medical world paid little attention to this observation until his extensive, now classic, studies were published, in 1941. 2 The reluctance with which his work was received has only gradually been overcome by an increasing number of confirmatory reports, particularly by Meigs 3 and Ayre, 4 as well as by many others. The procedure of recognizing malignant tumors from shed cells has now been firmly established as a valuable aid in early diagnosis. In addition to vaginal smears, this method of cytologic examination has been successfully applied to other organs, particularly the urinary tract, stomach, and bronchi. 5 In principle, the technique can be used for the diagnosis of malignant tumors in all accessible body cavities and orifices. To my knowledge, however, it has not been applied


DynaSat is a dynamic satellite information architecture that supports adaptive, faulttolerant, and secure communication and resource sharing for distributed (fractionated) satellite systems. It supports safe, robust, and secure sharing and virtualization of both cluster and ground capabilities by combining a COTS secure hypervisor and trusted resource control and multiplexing software with secure overlays. DynaSat leverages USC/ISI's X-Bone overlay network and NetStation distributed PC architecture systems to deliver a space-based Internet for distributed satellite data collection applications. The result is a configuration-based approach that enables rapid implementation, simple operation, and provides programmers a familiar Internet-based environment. The architecture also supports service import/export to external ground users. This document provides an overview of the DynaSat architecture, discusses its design and resulting capabilities and advantages for fractionated satellite systems.


Biogas is a multi-purpose technology capable of harvesting renewable energy, converting organic wastes and supplying low-carbon biofuels for transport which all mitigate atmospheric carbon emissions. State-of-the-art biogas CHP technology is however characterised by relatively significant life cycle CO2 emissions intensity typically ranging from 200 to 450 gCO2eq/kWhe, depending on specific feedstocks and configurations. Due to high CO2 content in biogas, the direct biogenic CO2 emissions intensity of a biogas CHP plant is about 700 gCO2/kWhe, which is greater than the direct CO2 emissions intensity of natural gas combustion and it is comparable only with coal combustion. Therefore, in order to meet requirements of future low-carbon energy systems, solutions capable of cost-effectively mitigating various parasitic or even biogenic carbon emissions from biogas are needed. This study analyses the following categories of solutions alleviating CO2 emissions intensity of biogas technology: 1) anaerobic digestion (AD) of organic matter with increased CH4/CO2 selectivity; 2) biological H2 generation from organic matter; 3) AD with biogenic CO2 recycling; 4) biogas utilisation with facilitated CO2 sequestration; 5) low-carbon biofuels from biogas. For each of these categories solutions aiming at alleviating CO2 emissions intensity are provided and analysed. Finally, optimal embedding in the economic environment is discussed.


Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is considered to be an irreversible change of gene function caused by certain genetic changes, resulting in abnormal proliferation, differentiation disorder, and abnormal apoptosis of leukemia cells, leading to the occurrence and development of leukemia. Epigenetics refers to the change of heritable gene expression but the gene does not change in sequence. A large number of studies have shown that the pathogenesis of AML is closely related to the regulation of epigenetics. The regulation of epigenetic modification in the cellular metabolism, immune microenvironment and immune response of AML has been received increasing attention. This review will describe the regulation of epigenetics in the cellular metabolism, immune microenvironment and immune response of AML and the advances in the targeted intervention measures.

Key words:
Leukemia, myeloid, acute; Epigenetic, mutation; Immunohistochemistry


The distinction between the price of gasoline in the U.S. and the price of crude oil in global markets is often ignored in discussions of the impact of higher energy prices. This article makes explicit the relationship between demand and supply shocks in these two markets. Building on a recently proposed structural VAR model of the global crude oil market, it explores the implications of a joint VAR model of the global market for crude oil and the U.S. market for motor gasoline. It is shown that it is essential to understand the origins of a given gasoline price shock, when assessing the responses of the price of gasoline and of gasoline consumption, since each demand and supply shock is associated with responses of different magnitude, pattern and persistence. The article assesses the overall importance of these shocks in explaining the variation in U.S. gasoline prices and consumption growth, as well as their relative contribution to the evolution of U.S. gasoline prices since 2002.


Although religious participation declines during emerging adulthood (18 years through middle 20s), most emerging adults still claim that their religious beliefs are important to them. However, little research has been conducted to examine the role that religious beliefs and practices may play in the development of self-perceptions during emerging adulthood. This study investigated: (1) the extent to which perceived competence and importance ratings of competence varied as a function of religious beliefs and practices as well as gender; and (2) the relationship between self-discrepancies in domains of importance and global self-worth as a function of the two religious factors and gender. Findings from responses of 232 university students revealed that perceived competence, perceived importance ratings, and the effect of success or failure in domains of importance on self-worth all differed based upon both religious factors and one's gender. The results underscore the importance that religiosity plays in the development of self-processes, especially for emerging-adult women.


The description of the researched barrel mixer with flat blades is carried out. Basing on experimental data, the authors have derived regression equations between barrel filling degree and drive power input and barrel capacity and angle of its setting, between coefficient of variation and mixing duration, between the share of the check component and barrel capacity and angle of its setting. An integrated functional model has been developed for the relationship between the main indicators of the mixer and the studied factors. Discrepancy between experimental data and calculated values of the functional model is about 15% of the calculated granularity of mixture. Inclination of the barrel at the angle of 15° to the horizontal is rational. Production of dry compound feed mixtures (with the density of 500-600 kg/m3) on farms in the existing small-capacitance mixers is irrational in view of long duration of mixing. Mixers need upgrading with the help of beaters' construction change.


For the detection of incipient interturn short-circuit (IITSC) faults of machines without shutting them down, there are still shortcomings of insufficient incipient fault features and a high false alarm rate. This is especially the case for dual three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) with complex winding structures, and this kind of incipient fault detection is more complicated. To solve this detection difficulty, an IITSC detection method for dual three-phase PMSMs is proposed based on a modified deep autoencoder (MDAE). This autoencoder (AE) adopts an improved distribution metric combined with the maximum mean discrepancy (MMD) and the maximum covariance discrepancy (MCD) to extract the fault feature from the common features, which can improve the feature difference between the normal state and the incipient fault state. Then, the permutation entropy of the extracted features is calculated to detect the IITSC faults. The results illustrate that this method can not only detect IITSC faults online effectively and robustly, but also reduce the false alarm rate of the fault detection for dual three-phase PMSMs.


INTRODUCTION Superplasticizers are used in a broad variety of application of inorganic bound systems mainly for concrete applications. In Europe mainly MPEG-type Polycarboxylate ethers (PCE) are used for this application nowadays. The effectivity of these superplasticizers depends on the electrostatically and sterically repulsion property but also on the ability to adsorb on the surface of reactive and nonreactive fines used in concrete. Although more and more alternative binder systems and supplementary cementitious materials are used, the main binder in concrete still is based on ordinary Portland cement (OPC). In order to gain more insight into these adsorption processes a microscopic method using a fluorescence microscope or confocal laser scanning microscope was developed [1]. Certain PCEs were coupled with a fluorescent dye to make them visible in these microscopes. Polished sections of clinker were measured by EDX-mapping in order to localize and differentiate the clinker phases. In this first attempt, only the phases containing Silicium (C3S and C2S) and the phases containing Aluminium (C3A, C4AF) were differentiated.


In order for Korea to move forward as a powerhouse of a world-wide trading sector, it is indispensable to devise a national-level strategy in the...


The explicit dynamic analysis of the reinforcement effects and dynamic characteristics of rock bolts is carried out by LS-DYNA software.The change features of vertical stress of rockmass, vault displacement and axial strain of rock bolts themselves caused by explosive waves are compared whether wall rock is reinforced or not.By comparing the cavern that is not reinforced, the stress of wall rock is larger and the displacement of vault is less than the cavern that is reinforced by rock bolts.By analyzing the axial strain temporal curves of rock bolts, the response to the dynamic loads is different when rock bolts' installing angles are different.The rock bolts of vault bear pressure at first and tension after., and the rock bolts in upright wall bear tension absolutely.The axial tension strain generates at these two positions.The comparison between the axial strain temporal curves and the corresponding curves is carried out in model test.These two curves are compatibility.This simulation provides the references of arrangement methods in wall rock of tunnels reinforced by rock bolts under the effect of dynamic loads.


The article advances an idea that history plays a special role in the development of national identity and memory. This role of the history is actualized in transit societies. The history is closely intertwined with nationalism. The nationalist intellectuals (Y. Mukhin, N. Narochnitskaya, A.R. Dyukov and others) aspire to establish and suggest historical narratives from the nationalist perspective. This nationalists' activity results in various consequences. It contributes to diffusion of standards of a historical research and encourages politicization of historiography.


Microbial Green synthesis of nanoparticles has a potential to develop simple, environmentally acceptable solvent systems, cost effective methods for production of great technologically important materials. In this study, Crystallized silver nanoparticles (SNPs) have been biosynthesized by Spirulina platensis as powder algal biomass with extracellular bio-synthesis of AgNPs from AgNO3 solution being reported. Silver nanoparticles synthesis was confirmed by UV-Visible Spectroscopy, electron microscopes (TEM) , Fourier transmittance infrared spectroscopy FTIR and Zeta potential measurement. Synthesized silver nanoparticles algal extracts were screened against bacterial and fungal pathogens. Antioxidant activity using DPPH free radical scavenging assay was determined. Standard antibiotic discs were conjugated with the algal silver extracts for comparison. where decreasing order of antibacterial activity (zone of inhibition in mm) for antibiotics with AgNPs conjugates against bacterial group was noted as follows: imipenem + AgNPs >Cefotaxime + AgNPs > Clindamycin + AgNPs. Both, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of AgNPs extracts showed a considerable activity, giving as such a promising approach in the pharmaceutical industry.


In this paper,the combination of loop transfer recovery(LTR) observer and sliding mode control(SMC) is researched to deal with input time-delay system which has extern disturbance and parameter perturbation.The input time-delay system was rewritten into system without any time-delay by utilizing non-singular linear transformation.Then the SMC controller was designed based on the system without time-delay.Finally,an asymptotic stability of the system was given.Simulation results show that the designed controller has good performance and the steady-state of time-delay system,which has noise disturbance and parameter perturbation,could be reached quickly.


Abstract : This manual provides the installation procedures, theory of operation, and maintenance procedures necessary to install, operate, calibrate, maintain and understand the Solar Insolation Recording System (SIRS) which is a microcomputer-based data acquisition system used to collect solar insolation data. Traditionally solar data has been collected in an analog format (strip chart). Large quantities of data were particularly difficult to manipulate. Therefore, to simplify the processing of data, a data acquisition system was designed and built which produced a computer compatible data medium. In the case of SIRS, the data media is digital cassette tapes. These tapes can be read into a larger computer where complex data manipulation/processing can be accomplished. This document strictly addresses the data acquisition system. Data reduction and manipulation will be covered in the final technical report on Solar Radiation Measuring. (Author)


Through investigate since the Song is it is it appear conclusion of scholar of " ancient Chinese prose minister " late to distinguish to testing this text, think that forms 28 gentle " ministers " today with the incomplete book of " minister " that Confucius compiled, Mencius polishes the incomplete book of " minister " that processes and forms 25 ancient Chinese prose " ministers ", Two formate Kong An Guo handed down copy of " minister " in Han Dynasty, to the Eastern Jin Dynasty being subtle to dedicate to but spread academic untenable view so far by plum, conclude clearly: (1)25 " late books " can not be handed down one of Kong An Guo definitely; (2)Mencius can not put in order and process 25 false ancient Chinese proses definitely. And protect the the same conclusion different facts of standard of both sides of the false ancient Chinese prose as the example with the card, is it is it confirm with diction doses of make and language , thought ,etc. standard works become textual criticism limit and value of method , book of times to come to make a self-criticism.


PCR using a highly conserved, fluorescently tagged primer pair. Labelled PCR products are then hybridised to complementary sequences fixed on the microarray. Species-specific DNA sequences are located within the amplified ITS region, allowing species identification. Each mycoplasma species is detected by five measuring points on the microarray. A universal probe allows detection of all mycoplasma species and provides secondary confirmation of species detection. Subsequent washing steps remove improperly bound PCR product. The bound and labelled PCR product is detected by excitation with monochromatic light with CheckScanner TM . The CheckReport™ Software automatically analyses CytoInspect TM results.


[eng] This article considers the differences between equities and bonds that led the former but not the latter to migrate at an early stage to exchange trading. It is clear that an exchange offers important advantages in terms of trading and settlement costs, unified price discovery and symmetric information distribution. However, the distinct nature of bonds made the OTC environment a better venue for their secondary market trading until new IT and subsequent business models made exchange-like benefits available to the bond market. JEL classification : G14, O33


Background:
 Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) are used frequently to treat end-stage heart failure. The HeartMate 3 (HM-3), the newest LVAD, has limited data on complications. We analyzed the post-marketing surveillance data from the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database to evaluate complications from the HM-3.

 Methods:
 We queried the MAUDE database for device event reports of the HM-3 LVAD from 1/1/2017 to 12/31/2019. We screened event reports for completeness, stratified complications into the device and patient effects, and used descriptive analyses on the compiled reported complications.

 Results:
 In this time period, 3,867 device reports met the search criteria, of which 961 identifiable device-specific complications were reported. The most common device events reported were infusion flow disruptions (21.0%), halted pump (9.2%), and material deformation (8.4%). Additionally, 5,676 events affecting patients were also reported in this period. Not counting death, blood loss (21.8%), infection (17.8%), and thrombus (3.3%) were the most commonly reported clinical events. Lastly, 535 deaths were reported, stemming from cerebral vascular accidents (9.7%) and hemorrhage (6.7%). Device events, patient events, with device and patient events associated with death are represented in
 Figure 1
 .

 Conclusion:
 Findings from the MAUDE database provide insight into complications and risks of the HM-3 LVAD. Addressing the complications and understanding the risk may improve clinical outcomes for patients with refractory heart failure.

 Figures 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D


In this perspective, we revise the historic notion that cancer is a disease of mitochondria. We summarize recent findings on the function and rewiring of central carbon metabolism in melanoma. Metabolic profiling studies using stable isotope tracers show that glycolysis is decoupled from the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. This decoupling is not 'dysfunction' but rather an alternate wiring required by tumor cells to remain metabolically versatile. In large part, this requirement is met by glutamine feeding the TCA cycle as an alternative source of carbon. Glutamine is also used in non‐conventional ways, like traveling in reverse through the TCA flux to feed fatty acid biosynthesis. Biosynthetic networks linked with non‐essential amino acids alanine, serine, arginine, and proline are also significantly impacted by the use of glutamine as an alternate carbon source.


Consider a plane wave incident on a perfectly conducting strip (or strip grating), and let the incident electric vector be parallel with the edges of the strip. If the edge mode is included among the basis functions, it is found this greatly improves the convergence of the moment-method solution. Numerical data are included for the reflection coefficient of the strip grating. To correct an error in the previous literature, the rigorous solution is tabulated for broadside backscatter from a single strip.


The specific failure model of back board is analyzed according to their working environment.The potential of materials can be trapped fully by optimizing the back board structure and using the modified alloy ZGMn13 in light of the actual production.In this study,the expendable pattern casting is adopted and the excess heat in the process was clever used in water toughening treatment,which saved energy and improved the production efficiency,significantly shortening the production cycle.We have developed a low cost,long life and high quality products that is able to fully meet the production needs,which improve capacity within the system and promote enterprise development.


The economic transformation in China has caused significant changes to labor relations. It has made the labor relations more complex and labor conflicts apparent and frequent. However the coordination mechanism has not been developed correspondingly. Based on the empirical research upon current domestic and overseas labor relations, it is concluded that the supply of labor force exceeding the demand of it is the fundamental reasons for explaining labor conflicts in the economic transformation in China. It also suggested that the coordination mechanism of labor conflicts has mechanical dysfunction and the structure of harmonic labor relations would take a long time.


(Abstract) The purpose of this paper is to present experimental results obtained by using both contacting and non-contacting measurements on parachute fabric. Contacting measurements were made using a novel polymer high strain sensor, Metal Rubber™. The equipment that is used to acquire non-contacting measurements is a three-dimensional (3D) image correlation system (Aramis 3D HR/RS System). Four experiments were conducted including a parachute fabric tensile test, a biaxially loaded cylinder test, a parachute airbag test, and an inverted water-filled parachute test. Contacting measurements are compared to the strain measured by a set of optical imaging cameras during the high strain tensile test of the parachute fabric. The results indicate that the imaging system can provide useful strain and deformation measurements for parachute fabric and that the polymer sensor can be used to measure strain. I. Introduction he continuing necessity for strategic mobility and reliance on airborne insertion requires the Army's focus to be centered on soldiers' protection during these tactics. In Operation Just Cause, 50% of combat injuries in the first 24 hours were jump related. In addition, parachuting is one of the highest training-related injury producers in the Army. Increasingly heavy payloads are compounding the risks and new equipment needs to be implemented to ensure the soldiers' safety. Prior to active field-testing of alternative parachute designs, the void of detailed, validated, physics-based, High Performance Computer (HPC) Modeling needs to be filled. The experimental tools necessary for full model validation and understanding the detailed physics of any parachute system were not available until now. Within this study, contacting and non-contacting methods of measurement are employed to obtain strain and deformation data, which can be used to validate the unproven structural finite element and computational fluid dynamic codes recently developed at the Army's Natick Soldier Research, Development, and Engineering Center (NSRDE) and other universities. The contacting measurements are made using a Metal Rubber™ sensor. Metal Rubber™, a material developed by Nanosonic, Inc., is a unique self-assembled nanocomposite material that combines the high electrical conductivity of metals with the low mechanical modulus of elastomers. Due to its relatively low modulus of elasticity, the Metal Rubber™ sensor will not mechanically affect the strain and displacement of the parachute fabric. These sensors operate in the same manner as a conventional metal foil strain gage, such that a change in length of the sensor will produce a change in resistance. Since these Metal Rubber™ sensors have only recently been developed, their use in the measurement of fabric strain has been previously unexplored. Furthermore, several challenges have been presented concerning these sensors. These challenges include attaching leads to the surface of the sensor and adhering the sensors to the fabric. T


Cataract means any opacity present in the lens, lens capsule or both. The opacities may vary in size, location, shape and rate of progression. By slit-lamp biomicroscopy it is possible to examine them with precision, determining its exact location and peculiarities, resulting in a safe, accurate diagnosis. Due to its variable origin and appearance, several methods of classification have been used. Classification by aetiology, grade of maturity, location and age of the patients are presented in this review. Surgical removal is the only effective therapy for this disease. Among the surgical techniques available to this day, endocapsular phacoemulsification excells for its better results, despite of its high cost, if compared to classical intra and extra capsular facectomies.


Almost a decade after the Geochemical Ocean Sections Study Indian Expedition, the new deep 3He data from the INDIGO program give a further insight into the distribution of this tracer in the Indian Ocean. This distribution exhibits some major features related on one hand to a hydrothermal 3He input in the Gulf of Aden and on the Mid-Indian Ocean Ridge, and on the other to the origin of the water masses and to the characteristics of the deep circulation. The main pattern is a significant north-south 3He gradient, with deep waters of the southern ocean showing δ3He values around 8–9% due to the influence of the Atlantic deep waters poor in 3He and relatively high values in the northern and central regions (15% to 18% between 2000 m and 3000 m depth) originating from the hydrothermal activity. In the easternmost part of the basin, the 3He values exhibit a significant increase at shallower depths (around 1000 m) probably due to the Pacific water flow through the Indonesian sills, whereas the data in the Indian sector of the Antarctic ocean show a maximum of the order of 10%, south of the Polar Front, interpreted as showing the presence of the Pacific deep waters in the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. These different aspects are summarized by mapping the horizontal distribution of the δ3He maxima all over the Indian basin. This map points out some characteristics of the deep circulation but also stresses the need for further measurements in order to clarify the description of this tracer in several key areas.


Abstract : Deteriorating and failing federal facilities represent a cost to leaders and organizations as they attempt to manage and maintain these assets. Currently the Air Force employs the BUILDERTM Sustainment Management System to predict the reliability of building components. At different system levels, however, the probabilities of failure are not predicted. The purpose of this research is to provide probabilistic models which predict the probability of failure at the system level of a building s infrastructure hierarchy. This research investigated the plumbing, HVAC, fire protection, and electrical systems. Probabilistic models were created for these systems by using fault trees with fuzzy logic on the basis of risk by weighting the probabilities of failure by the consequences of failure. This thesis then validated each of the models using real-world Air Force work order data. Through contingency analysis, it was found that the current BUILDERtm condition index model possessed no predictive ability due to the resulting p-value of 1.00; the probabilistic models possessed much more predictive ability with a resulting p-value of 0.12. The probabilistic models are statistically shown to be a significant improvement over the current condition index model; these models lead to improved decision making for infrastructure assets.


There are at Least Three Possible Types of View about the justifiability of the use of force by states or private individuals on behalf of other private individuals or groups who are the victims of brutal and gratuitous coercion by another state. The first type of view is that no human being, and a fortiori no state, can be justified in using force under any circumstances and for any purpose, because (and only because) force is an intrinsic evil. This unflinchingly deontological view is generous but practically absurd. The second type of view is that states (or even private individuals) can be, and often arc, justified in using force against the brutally coercive actions of another state when, but only when, the latter is acting outside its own territorial jurisdiction. At least in the case of states what grounds that justification is their entitlement to defend themselves against foreign (as against domestic) aggression, and to defend also any other states with whom they have linked themselves either by standing alliances or by solemn common undertakings to secure each other's safety and sovereignty within the bounds of international law. In the case of private individuals, the corresponding justification would lie in their several personal entitlements to defend themselves as best they can against aggression.


Travel industry is in policy spotlight as one of among seven rising service industries by Korean Government. We estimate technical efficiencies based on accounting data of 180 Korean firms of travel industry using Battese & Coelli (1995) SFA model. The average efficiency of whole travel industry is around 0.52. The SFA analysis also estimates coefficients which explain the efficiency. The age of firms is one of the factor; the firms which come in the market later are more efficient. In order to raise efficiency of travel industry, continuous innovation of exist firms would be helpful. Dummy variables of subgroup under the travel industry showed statistically significant coefficients of explaining the efficiency; that is, industrial environment of each subgroup is important factor as well as firm level behavior. Diversity in the industry would not be an ignorable factor because travelers need various combinations of services. However, efficiency improvement by specialization would be another important aim. In sum, more efficient sub-industry should be facilitated preferentially in case government encounter resource limitation and the authority should give incentive to more efficient firms within a sub-industry for better competitiveness.


Abstract. To make transit rail services more attractive, the preferred public travel mode and serve as the backbone of any metropolitan area, there arises a need to create a sustainable and inclusive urban environment with access to all. This study aims to map the pedestrian permeability and impermeability by categorizing roads and streets around identified transit nodes in Noida as public, private and non-accessible by all. By doing so, the study identifies very distinct and spatial divisions like gated communities and urban villages that have emerged as social ghettos in the planned city Noida and thereby, devoid it of being an inclusive city. Initial metro station smart android-based mobile surveys were done across 12 elevated metro stations falling on the blue transit corridor line connecting Delhi with its satellite town Noida using smart apps namely ODK and Kobo Toolbox with the analysis done in QGIS. It was found that trip distance and time had a strong association with walking while age, gender and purpose of the trip had no association with walking to the metro station. Most transit users living within one-kilometer walking distance prefer to walk to the nearest metro station in Noida. Finally, the study shows the area difference between the perceived and actual Isochrones prepared in QGIS as Ped-sheds after deducing areas such as gated communities, superblocks and unplanned settlements like urban villages where the existing road/street network is not accessible by all or safe to use.


Seed priming is a pre-sowing treatment used to reduce stress effects in crops. Chilling stress is one of the stresses that affect the most of the important cereal crops. In order to investigate the role of nitric oxide in mitigating chilling induced physiological variations of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) at early seedling development, two experiments were conducted during the year 2012 and 2013 and the data was statistically analyzed in MSTAT-C computer package. Seven wheat genotypes after seed priming in 0, 10-4 and 10-5 M sodium nitroprusside (as nitric oxide donor) were grown according to completely randomized design with three replicates in optimum growth conditions. Nitric Oxide donor priming at 10-4 M concentration was found to be more effective in reducing cold stress. The study of physiological attributes of the seedlings revealed that NARC-2011, Chakwal-50, Punjab-2011 and Faisalabad-2008 are comparatively more tolerant to chilling stress in association with NO priming.


Purpose. The paper purpose is to study the formation of the optimal organizational process of the import operations conduction.
Design/methodology/approach. The basic principles of the research are historical, systemic and comparative. Also system-functional and structural-functional approaches are applied.
Findings. The subject of research is theoretical, methodological and applied aspects of the formation and conduction of import purchases of raw materials and equipment. The relevance of the issue being under study is determined by the necessity of the modernization of emplementation of new modern ways of organization of import purchases at machine building enterprises.
Enterprises of Ukrainian engineering sector take leading positions in the national and foreign markets. Therefore, the study of theoretical issues and practical research of  he sphere of foreign economic activity are especially important for the formation of competitive advantages of machine-building enterprises. The reason of this importance is explaind with the fact that the organization of import purchases has undergone significant changes, connected with country's economy market changes, which have led to the increase of this sphere.
Research limitations/implications. The scientific significance of the work is that it gives the study of the process of import operations, the specifics of the engineering industry, the specifics of a foreign trade transaction and the description of main problems that machine-building enterprises face in the process of importing.
Originality/value. In practice, the proper organization of import operations will contribute to the optimal functioning of purchase processes and the establishment of stable relations with suppliers of raw materials and equipment. It will also minimize the cost of materials supplied and speed up their delivery time.