Sacha Zala and Raoul Pupo). And one (Martin Sabrow) relates the political mobilization of historians — East and West — in post-unification Germany. Each of these brief, well-written chapters acknowledges the risks of operating in the public limelight. Fact-finding commissions, rarely insulated from political pressures and media attention, are always dependent on government officials for resources and documentation and are vulnerable to consensus thinking. Moreover, the results of their fact-finding — from institutional reform (Sweden), to the fall of a government (the Netherlands), to an apology and reparations (Belgium) — are beyond their control, or, in the case of 'Living History', contrary to their professional judgment. Juridical processes, placing historian-witnesses in an unfamiliar arena laced with contestation and leading to binding judgments, have not only risked challenges to their objectivity but have also raised spirited opposition within the profession. Textbooks, created by committee, have been proven neither to overcome parochialism nor to cure intolerance. And, faced with dramatic regime change, national historians often find themselves unprepared to lead into the future. History's current vogue may well not survive the public's saturation and its critics' scrutiny. The past 20 years have nonetheless produced a cadre of energetic, experienced researchers who, on their own or collaboratively, have developed impressive technical competency and analytic skills and helped expose important blank spots in the recent and distant past. Whether and how contemporary historians will continue to meet and manage public demands for more past remains an open question.


that allows the capitalist pig to successfully follow its life cycle all the way to the disassembly line. At one level, this finding echoes calls for solidarity made by animal rights activists who poignantly observe that the conditions we subject industrial animals to are also the conditions under which industrial farm workers labor. By working inside the farm, Blanchette is able to witness what that solidarity looks like in action as he describes the moments of intimacy his co-workers establish with pigs they are otherwise told to treat as company property. "Somos puercos" ("we are pigs"), one of Blanchette's Latin American co-workers declares, which is an expression that self-reflexively situates farmworkers such as herself and pigs within a racial capitalist order generated by the industrial farm. The sentiment also gestures toward an expansive sense of labor solidarity between the humans and the industrial pigs. What is refreshing about Porkopolis is its refusal to narrate this story as a simple matter of good and evil. The thoroughness with which this study is conducted reveals details that defy simplistic normative judgment. In the book's background, the pork industry's concerted efforts to shield itself from regulation and union accountability through political and legal maneuvering are mentioned. From environmental degradation, to monopolized markets, to worker exploitation, the harmful leakages produced by this system of production are cited throughout the text. Those ugly truths, however, are situated next to other truths such as an insatiable global appetite for cheap pork, rural towns desperate for investment and jobs, and workers who have made lives and careers for themselves in industrial pig farming. Such details are not included to complicate the question of whether industrial pig farming is worth doing. Blanchette is emphatic that it is not. Instead, they evince the numerous entanglements that keep this system going even as those charged with its management and maintenance question its sustainability. Porkopolis ultimately leaves its reader to ask, what would it mean to truly be "post" industrial? While the book never answers this question directly, the many allusions to post-work politics, and the references to post-work scholars, suggest Blanchette finds inspiration from those who insist society can no longer equate abundance with conspicuous consumption nor measure an economy's health solely in terms of goods produced and services rendered. Yet, whether a postindustrial agriculture signals a world with less work is not entirely clear, especially if what characterizes the industrial farm is its intense concentration of pig and human labor into a relatively smaller space. Perhaps, instead, the postindustrial farm is replaced by numerous smaller farms with more people overall employed in agriculture. If we set aside the utopian thinking that often characterizes post-work theorization and sit in the muck left over after nearly two centuries of industrialization, Porkopolis casts some doubt as to whether a low-work future is possible, or even desirable. Stated in a slightly different way, what if the future of work, and its postindustrial possibilities, were framed not as a matter of whether society will have enough work for people to do but was instead treated as an invitation to ask what society ought to work for?


Nanocomposites of novolac phenolic resin with a series of organoclays based on sodium montmorillonite exchanged with various amine compatibilizers were fabricated via melt processing. The effects of the amine structure on the resulting morphology and physical properties were investigated by employing wide-angle X-ray scattering, transmission electron microscopy, viscosity measurement, flexural strength measurement, and Izod impact strength testing. All of the composites containing organoclay showed evidence of the intercalated state with a shift in the gallery spacing. The extent of silicate platelet intercalation was increased by (1) decreasing the number of long alkyl tails from two to one, (2) using methyl rather than polar hydroxyethyl groups or bulky groups such as 2-ethylhexyl or benzyl groups, and (3) using an equivalent amount of compatibilizer with the montmorillonite. Novolac phenolic resin/organoclay nanocomposites cured with hexamethylenetetramine exhibited better flexural and Izod impact stre...


he conduct of free, fair and credible election in Africa remains a major T challenge hence; this paper examined the issues and challenges in the management of elections in Nigeria with particular reference to the 2015 general elections. The paper posits that for any election to be free, fair and credible; the electoral umpire must be neutral and unbiased and the processes leading to the election must also be credible and transparent. Data for the study were drawn from secondary sources while analysis was done qualitatively. The study revealed that the political merger (alliance) between the All Progressives Congress and other political parties accounted for the victory recorded by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Findings from the study also show that the pre-election amendments and guidelines introduced by INEC helped to improve the quality of the 2015 general elections. Further ndings show that constant policy evaluation and review is fundamental to the attainment of free, fair, transparent and credible elections in Nigeria and Africa in general.


Abstract In the linguistic landscapes (LL) literature there is frequent mention of the viewing of public locales by passers-by, owners, and tourists, who necessarily enter and exit locales in different ways, times, and conditions. This paper extends our understanding of the viewing of LL by investigating the discursive constructions of the bathroom of a shared home through the voices of its residents: six Vietnamese international students studying in Australia. When the residents of the home were asked to reflect on their perceptions of language in this locale, the findings show that they attend to the inscriptions on the artifacts, the linguistic activities that take place within the locale, or see no LL whatsoever because of the ways they construct the locale. The findings suggest that linguists need to give more consideration to the types of linguistic activities that occur in a locale in exploration of how individuals view their LL.


The Bjork-Shiley valve (BSV) was one of the first tilting disc valve prosthesis used. We report a patient with a still functioning BS mitral valve prosthesis implanted and required a redo surgery for tricuspid valve regurgitation.


There is growing evidence that a substantial fraction of the dissolved organic and inorganic carbon (DOC and DIC) and particulate organic carbon (POC) can be exported from mangroves to the ocean. Yet our understanding of C fluxes in mangrove forests is limited to only few regional studies that exclude the world's longest sediment dispersal system connected to the Amazon River. The present study aims at (1) examining tidal fluctuations of DOC, POC, and DIC; their isotopes; and optical properties such as chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) and (2) estimating their exchange fluxes between the mangroves and adjacent coastal water in the Sinnamary estuary, French Guiana. Time series observation highlighted that physical processes coupled to tides controlled diel dynamics and sources of DOC (e.g., litter leaching and pore water seepage) and POC (microphytobenthos, sediment resuspension, and bioturbation activities). Intense benthic remineralization could account for high water column pCO2 and DIC exchange flux during the low tide. Mangrove‐derived DOC export to inner shelf (8.14 g C m−2 day−1) was exceeding import of POC and DIC from the mud bank and marine sources to the mangroves (1.35 and 0.90 g C m−2 day−1, respectively). Because of specific dynamics of the Amazon mobile muds, local geomorphology, water column stratification, and environmental forcing, Guianese mangroves cannot be seen as simple C exporters to the Atlantic waters. These first data setting on C fluxes for the region should be included along with other studies to improve global mangrove C budget estimate.


The last decades, the research on cell-cell communication or quorum sensing has been quite intense. Bacterial communication allows bacteria to coordinate their behavior and to act as one entity. Quorum sensing controls microbiological functions of medical, agricultural and industrial importance and a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms and the conditions under which the signaling occurs, offers possibilities for new applications. In this paper the production of the AI-2 signaling molecule by Salmonella Typhimurium is investigated in a controlled environment (bioreactor). The experimental results are applied to build a macroscopic model that describes the evolution of the AI- 2 production and uptake by Salmonella Typhimurium in relation to the growth kinetics and biomass concentration. Copyright c 2007 IFAC


This paper examines types of customer purchase decisions as they relate to customer relationship activities. Included in this discussion is the manner in which customer relationship activities relate to a typology of consumer decision making. In this typology, consumer decisions are classified as limited, moderate, or extended problem solving. This classification system is based on both market and consumer characteristics. Depending on how the product is viewed by the target market, the customer relationship activities will vary. This typology should prove most useful for the analysis of marketing strategies for firms engaged in consumer marketing. Customer relationship activities that a firm must address are then discussed. The three types of relationship activities are considered and different approaches to handling relationships are discussed in terms of the three different product types. The use of this model should increase the probability of obtaining profitable customers while at the same time reducing costs associated with pursuing and maintaining customers that have little potential.


The IFOAM EU Group is concerned about healthy food, sustainable practices for food production and sustainability of the whole food chain. Therefore the organic sector supports more transparency in food production to enable consumers to make evidence‐based choices to contribute to well being and health. Food labelling has to be clear, confusing labelling must be avoided. Organic farming has pioneered higher standards for comprehensively sustainable farming, animal welfare and the careful use of natural resources. It delivers high quality food, other products and environmental services. It is the only label with a European wide control and certification system in place; consumers trust the organic label.


Histochemical examinations were made on the peroxidase, Mg-ATPase, and malate dehy-drogenase activities in the peripheral granulocytes, hematopoietic tissues and inflamed dorsal muscle tissues, using carp Cyprinus carpio inflamed with the injection of turpentine (1.0 and 0.1ml/kg body weight). The results obtained were very similar in the experiments of both the doses. In the peripheral blood of the inflamed carp, the rate of the total granulocytes to the ery-throcytes and the rate of the granulocytes showing intense enzyme activities to those showing low enzyme activities begin to increase at 30 min and are in maxima at 2 days after the injection. In the hematopoietic tissues of the inflamed carp, the rate of the granulocytes showing intense peroxidase activity is in maximum at 2 days after the injection. These results may indicate that the granulocytes produced in the hematopoietic tissues are supplied gradually into the peripheral blood. This supply is slow in comparison to mammals. Therefore, the hematopoietic tissues of carps may not comtain large number of the matured granulocytes as seen in mammals.


The main components in the structure of general school students' readiness to the will pressures, such as cognitive, motivational-emotional, active are considered. 318 students f the middle school age took part in the experiment. As a result of certifying experiment all the students were nominally divided into tree groups: with high, middle and law levels of readiness to the will pressures. The effectiveness of the proposed pedagogical conditions was proved as well as readiness to the will pressures training models for teenagers in the process of physical education at comprehensive school were developed.


The role of imaging techniques is becoming increasingly important in veterinary medicine. Radiography is often used for diagnosis in avian medicine particularly coelemic cavity and orthopedic fields. Many diagnostic test results as percussion, blood analyses, body temperature, etc. have limited interpretive value in avian patients and avian patients can often hide their clinical disease signs for a long period of time. Individual organs are not always clearly visualized on all radiographs. There are some variations in species in the size, shape, and location of internal organs. However, accurate interpretation of the radiogram depends on the well-known radiographic anatomy. The purpose of this study is to present normal radiographic images of birds and some pathological cases in different bird species.


The theory of action research (AR) pedagogy presented in this article is, at its core, ethical in nature. For teaching, learning, and evaluating AR, the theory's goal is to increase individuals' capacity to act on their own behalf and preventing themselves from becoming an authoritarian expert. Achieving such an increased individual capacity requires the integration and deployment of multiple dimensions of ethical principles and understanding their implications for the ethics of AR pedagogy. An integration of Ibn Miskawayh's Islamic philosophy of ethical pedagogy, Iris Young's theory of justice, Greenwood and Levin's criteria for ethical participation, and my own model of participatory action research evaluation that is central to the learning process constitutes the basis of this ethical theory of AR pedagogy.


During the transition to parenthood, gender allocation regarding time and commitment between work and family undergoes a profound redefinition in response to both attitudes and the available resources. These attitudes may be concordant or discordant between two married partners, they may clash to a greater or lesser extent due to perceived financial or labour market constraints, and they may or may not provoke explicit conflicts and negotiations. In this study by combining quantitative and qualitative data, we focus on couples with young children or in transition to first child, and we explore what happens in the Italian case when partners have discordant views on gender divisions of paid and unpaid work. The findings show that the division of domestic and care activities seems more resistant to change and more responsive to the husband's attitudes Fathers, Childcare and Work: Cultures, Practices and Policies Contemporary Perspectives in Family Research, Volume 12, 45–76 Copyright © 2018 by Emerald Publishing Limited All rights of reproduction in any form reserved ISSN: 1530-3535/doi:10.1108/S1530-353520180000012003 Fathers, Childcare and Work: Cultures, practices and policies 46 MaNUeLa NaLDINI aND CrIStINa SOLera than does the division of paid work, as the latter is mainly driven by the woman's education and attitudes. The findings also show that very few couples overtly disagree. If they do so, the main issue in dispute is the allocation of domestic work. Moreover, although women have the 'leading' role in voicing and proposing solutions, these consist more in hiring external help than in obtaining the husband's greater participation. Compared with domestic work, the allocation of care seems to be a less disputed and more flexible issue: when women start negotiations on a more equal sharing, men are more willing to increase their participation. However, when a more equitable sharing is not attained, couples' narratives more frequently cite constraints on the man (typically his work) than on the woman, and recount women's rather than men's redefinitions of preferences for the best of the family.


The recognition of trees plays an important role in the construction of ecological civilisation. In order to strengthen tree information management and help the public to have a better understanding of trees, an Android-based tree cognitive navigation system for smart phones was developed. Using two-dimensional code and GPS technologies, the system can rapidly acquire geographic coordinates and species of trees. In this paper, the theory, system framework and key technologies of the system are presented. Subsequently, a tree cognitive system based on two-dimensional code and GPS was developed for Beijing Forestry University. The system implementation approach has broad application prospects. The case study showed that it is portable, practical, user-friendly, and network-independent and has good potential for application and expansion.


Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are a large class of organic compounds containing two or more fused aromatic rings made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms. T hey have high melting and boiling-points, low vapour pressure, water solubility, and are highly lipophilic. PAH are produced during incomplete combustion or pyrolysis of organic matter, are found in cigarette smoke, motor vehicle exhaust, used motor lubricating oil, broiled meat, coal tar, crude oil, creosote, roofing tar, dyes, plastics, and pesticides. Some members of PAH class were shown to have carcinogenic, genotoxic, and immunotoxic properties, developmental toxicity and affect reproductive health. (NCI) Qeios · Definition, February 7, 2020


Using the central field approximation theory and the configuration-interaction method, the electronic orbital wave functions, orbital enrgies, mean orbital radius, total binding energy, excitation energies and ionization potential of Lawrencium are calculated. The ground configuration and the ground state of lawrencium are studied according to the calculations. It is shown that the ground configuration of Lawrencium is 5f 14 7s 27p and the ground state is 2P 1/2 .


This paper studies an application of a Darwinian theory of portfolio selection to stocks listed in the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA). We analyze numerically the long-run outcome of the competition of fix-mix portfolio rules in a stock market with actual DJIA dividends. In the model seemingly rational strategies can do very poorly against seemingly irrational strategies. Moreover, the interaction of strategies can lead to stochastic time series of asset prices that do not converge. The simulations also show that the evolutionary portfolio rule dis


In conclusion, metagenomics sequencing approach was successfully implemented to detect viruses in infants and children with gastroenteritis in Kuwait. We showed that metagenomics analysis holds promise as a diagnostic tool in which multiplex rt-PCR could not identify many viruses known to cause gastroenteritis that was detected by metagenomics tool. Although there are some difficulties when using the metagenomics approach such as cost, labour intensity, interpretation and analysis of data, and turnaround time, it has been proven in many studies that metagenomics is a highly sensitive and promising tool for detecting new emerging viruses. But in comparison with the first generation sequencing methods, metagenomic based on NGS is considered less expensive with higher throughput and decreased turnaround time when sequencing the whole genome. To become a routine diagnostic tool, the approach requires more improvement in sample preparation, validation of pipelines for reads sorting and taxonomic assignation, and cost of NGS machines and reagents. These developments will expedite the feasibility of the metagenomic approach and allow its implementation in routine diagnostic laboratories. Despite these obstacles, metagenomics remains a powerful tool, which can answer many outstanding and unsolved questions. Indeed, this new protocol provided valuable information on viruses associated with gastroenteritis among patients in Kuwait.


Although the construction, maintenance and operation of hydrocyclones is simple in nature, it is known that the hydrodynamic behavior inside hydrocyclones is quite complex. Among the features which confer this complexity stands out: high vorticity preservation, vortex breakdown, flow inversion, and the possibility of formation of air core due to the generation of a low pressure area in the central axis of the separator. In this sense this work aimed to study the hydrodynamics of a hydrocyclone using as tool the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The simulated results were obtained considering two different models for turbulence: Reynolds stress model and Large Eddy simulation methodology. Can be highlighted as main simulated variables the flow ratio and the pressure drop of the hydrocyclone, which were compared with experimental values. In order to evaluate the influence of air core on the simulated variables, were done numerical simulations of the hydrocyclone operating in the presence of air core, using for this, the volume of fluid (VOF) model.


Summary A transplantable adrenal mouse carcinoma produced elevated plasma ketosteroid in the host. Non-tumor-bearing mice subjected to gonadectomy-adrenalectomy have negligible levels of plasma ketosteroid. Tumor-bearing mice have unchanged plasma levels following this procedure indicating steroid production by the tumor. ACTH and Δ1-9α fluorohydrocortisone have no influence on the plasma ketosteroid level of tumor-bearing animals. Distant metastases were found in adrenalectomized-gonadectomized males and adrenalectomized females, but not in animals not subjected to these procedures.


Automatic mapping of flow parameters in a color Dop pler ultrasound diagnostic imaging system including the steps of selecting a region of interest (ROI), transmitting ultrasound signals along a plurality of lines traversing the ROI, applying a train of Doppler pulses along each of said lines through blood vessels traversed by said lines during a heart cycle and displaying selected blood flow characteristics in a plurality of colors and prevent ing misalignment between the sector scan image and the Doppler image by gradually generating both images simultaneously to provide a color flow parameters image superimposed on a two dimensional gray scale image.


Performance and security are software (SW) application attributes situated on the opposite corners of system design. In the most drastic example the most secure component is the one totally isolated from the outside world, with communication performance reduced to zero level (e.g. disconnected physically from the network, placed inside a Faraday cage to eliminate possible wireless accessibility). On the other hand the most performance-optimized system is the one with all security rules taken off. Obviously such extreme implementations cannot be accepted, thus a reasonable trade-off between security and performance is desired, starting from the appropriate design, resulting in the adequate implementation, confirmed by security and performance testing in production environment. Unit testing (UT) is a well-know method of examining the smallest portion of SW application source code – units: methods, classes, interfaces in order to verify whether they behave as designed. Ideally, each UT test case is separated from others, taking advantage of stubs and mocks to provide full isolation from external test factors. This paper is an extension to research about joint security testing and performance testing for improving quality of distributed applications working in public-private network environments,addressing SW quality assessment at different, unit test level.


The purpose of this study is to assess the effects of experiential learning via cloud-based mobile technologies on 8th graders' beliefs and attitude toward vocational business education. Virtual store and virtual tour were used for students to experience mobile shopping and touring. The study proposed a conceptual model drawn from Kolb's Experiential Learning Model (ELM) to evaluate the effects. Experiential learning was conducted for students of three middle schools in Pingtung County of Taiwan. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the self-reported data from 203 students. The findings revealed that: (1) learning activities and staff competence positively impacted perceived benefit; (2) learning activities, staff competence, and perceived benefit positively influenced utility value (educational planning); and (3) perceived benefit positively influenced intention to re-participate while utility value did not, and (4) perceived benefit and utility value mediated the influence of learning activity and staff competence on intention. Implications for promoting vocational business education are discussed.


ion Abstraction in Photography Accidents Accounting and Costs and Prices for Photos in Photography Actinic Action Photography Action Photography /With Still Camera Acutance Ad Rate Cards and Regis Cards Samples Adams Polaroid Adapters Adhesives Adhesives Adhesives Used in Photography Advancing Photography as a Fine Art Advertisements/Old Photo Ads Advertising Advertising Copy and Art Work/Sussman & Sugar Inc. Advertising Literature Advertising Photography /O 'Reilly Advertising, Art Work, Promotion/Graf lex 10th Edition Aerial Aerial Movies Aerial Photography Aerial Photography II Agencies /How They Operate Agfa Agitation Agitation Air 16.3 3 5.5 29.1 1 5.6 5.7 16.4 1 5.8 1 5.9 9 5.10 5.11 16.5 3 5.12 12 16.6 1 .25 1.15 2 5.14 6 16.7 1 29.16 5.13 16.8 6 5.16 5.15 1 .26 1.10 16.9 3 1 .27 23 5.17 70 16.11 16 16.10 4 5. 18 69 16.12 16.13 5.19 1 16.14 5.20


Objective:This study aims to target human interleukin-8 gene by constructing shRNA lentiviral vectors and detect its silencing effect in MDA-MB-231 cells.Methods:Two specific siRNA sequences targeting human IL-8 gene were designed and recombined with pMagic7.1lentiviral vector plasmids.The recombined plasmids were identified by PCR and then sequenced.The lentivirus particles were packaged using 293T cells,the titer of which were detected by quantitative DNA technique.Then MDA-MB-231 cells were transfected with the optimized MOI.The silencing effect on IL-8 was detected by real-time PCR.Results:The sequencing of shRNA plasmids which been identified positive by PCR were correctly constructed.The titer of the packaged virus was 263 1.93×109 IU/mL and 1.89×109 IU/mL separately.After infecting the MDA-MB-231 cells with MOI=40,the silencing efficiency were 80% and 90% respectively.Conclusion:The recombinant lentiviral shRNA has been constructed successfully,with a highly silence efficiency,which ensure the reliability for the further study on cell functional assay.


Introduction: Traditional graded-exercise tests to volitional exhaustion (GXTs) are limited by the need to establish starting workloads, stage durations, and step increments. Short-duration time-trials (TTs) may be easier to implement and more ecologically valid in terms of real-world athletic events. The purpose of the current study was to assess the reliability and validity of maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) and performance measured during a traditional GXT (STEP) and a four-minute running time-trial (RunTT).


Although rates of P and N excretion by zooplankton have important implications for nutrient cycling in aquatic ecosystems, the literature offers few quantitative general models of these processes. We used data collected from published studies to construct potentially predictive models of P and N excretion rates by zooplankton from freshwater and marine habitats. Excretion rates of P and N are strongly correlated (r2 = 0.88) and consequently each predicts the other best. Respiration rate is also highly significantly correlated with P and N excretion rates and is the second best predictor. Although body size explained relatively less overall variability, the inclusion of temperature, container volume, and experimental duration as independent variables in multiple regressions substantially improved the predictive power of models based on body size. The models can be corrected for taxonomic biases in zooplankton, but these biases were usually small. These models could provide both a basis for further empirical analysis of the determinants of zooplankton nutrient excretion and a means of predicting the fate of nutrients in aquatic ecosystems.


The project of Federal Law «Act of the Amendments in Articles 62 and 303 in the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation and in the Criminal Procedural Code of the Russian Federation» is being analyzed, which determinates application of the inquiry procedure in short version. According to its content, major and essential remarks are being discussed.


AbstractThe inhibition of corrosion on an Al-Cu alloy (2014-T6) in sodium chloride solution by compounds containing either tetrathiomolybdate or tetrathiotungstate anions has been investigated. Total immersion tests conducted in quiescent 1, 10, 100, and 600 mmol L−1 sodium chloride solutions have shown that, at a 2 mmol L−1 concentration, the soluble ammonium and tetramethylammonium tetrathiotungstate compounds prevented the corrosion of the Al-Cu alloy in each of the chloride solutions, giving inhibitor efficiencies of 99% and above, comparable with levels obtained for chromates. The sparingly soluble compound methyltriphenylphosphonium tetrathiotungstate also inhibited corrosion in each of the chloride solutions when present at its maximum concentration of 0·62 mmol L−1. In contrast, the ammonium tetrathiomolybdate compound at a concentration of 2 mmol L−1 was found only to provide inhibitor efficiencies exceeding 90% in the dilute chloride solutions and appeared to have little effect in the 100 and 60...


Over the past two decades, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) on Heart Failure has increasingly become a familiar part of Cardiology practice and are used worldwide. By creating objective standards, CPG provides a mechanism to assess decision-making and straightforward references for clinicians. Level of Evidence C recommendations are based on expert consensus and/or small retrospective studies and registries with limited and non-representative populations evaluated. The resulting directives need to be proven with better quality data to assess its true benefits.

 The purpose of our study was to describe and evaluate the evolution of Level of Evidence C recommendations of ESC CPG on Heart Failure and to provide a quality assessment of its benefits in the following years.

 In this retrospective observational Case-Control study, we identified and collected all Level of Evidence C recommendations in five consecutive published documents of ESC CPG in the years 2001, 2005, 2008, 2012 and 2016. Each identified recommendation was classified between two major groups: Diagnostic and Complementary Exams (group 1) and Therapeutics and Interventions (group 2) and was followed up in the following documents. Primary outcomes were classified as: (1) Upgrade to Level of Evidence A or B [Upgrade], (2) Elimination or disproven benefit/harm [Downgrade] and (3) Maintenance or minor reformulation with unchanged benefit/harm [Maintenance]. We applied a Kaplan-Meyer survival analysis to estimate the probability of Upgrade or Downgrade in each group.

 A total of 239 different Level of Evidence C recommendations were submitted to the final analysis, 22.6% (n=54) in group 1 and 77.4% (n=185) in group 2. On follow-up, 35.2% (n=76) of recommendations were upgraded, 29.6% (n=64) were downgraded and 35.2% (n=76) were maintained. Regarding outcomes, the downgrade of recommendations occurred predominantly in group 2 (94.4%). Considering all the eliminated recommendations, 60.9% took place on the next following published ESC CPG document. Likewise, 60.5% of upgraded recommendations also occurred on the next following published ESC CPG document. The probability of upgrade or downgrade in the next following document was 52.8%, predominantly in the Therapeutics and Interventions group (37.5% vs 57.9%, p=0.012).
 Figure 1

 Level of Evidence C recommendations constitutes an important asset of ESC CPG on Heart Failure as they are usually updated on new treatment options and are developed by experts in the specific topic. However, the probability of elimination due to disproven benefit or potential harm was high (29.6%), particularly regarding therapeutics and interventions (94%). Since a significant fraction of Level of Evidence C recommendations remains unchanged on the following document (35%), the need for high-quality data, specifically regarding therapeutic interventions, is warranted.


Building end-to-end task bots and maintaining their integration with new functionalities using minimal human efforts is a long-standing challenge in dialog research. Recently large language models (LLMs) have demonstrated exceptional proficiency in conversational engagement and adherence to instructions across various downstream tasks. In this work, we introduce SGP-TOD, Schema-Guided Prompting for building Task-Oriented Dialog systems effortlessly based on LLMs. Utilizing the symbolic knowledge -- task schema, we instruct fixed LLMs to generate appropriate responses on novel tasks, circumventing the need for training data. Specifically, SGP-TOD comprises three components: a LLM for engaging with users, a DST Prompter to aid the LLM with dialog state tracking, which is then used to retrieve database items, and a Policy Prompter to elicit proper responses adhering to the provided dialog policy. Experimental results on Multiwoz, RADDLE and STAR datasets show that our training-free strategy SGP-TOD, without any task-specific data, yields state-of-the-art (SOTA) zero-shot performance, greatly surpasses the few-shot approaches. In a domain-extension setting, SGP-TOD aptly adapts to new functionalities by merely adding supplementary schema rules. We make our code and data publicly available.


writers who have put 'America' in the same sentence as 'empire', the discussion is about the military end of the interstate political order. All of these writers tread lightly over the economics. Joseph Nye does mention the economics, but only to reject the idea of linking 'empire' to 'economics'. He proposes the image of the world as a three-layer chessboard. On the top board – military affairs – the world is clearly unipolar, and here it makes sense to talk of an American Empire. On the next board down – interstate economic affairs – the world remains thoroughly multipolar (the USA, Europe, Japan, China). Here, there is no empire; rather, 'balance of power', he suggests. On the bottom chessboard – transnational economic issues and international business – there is likewise no empire; rather, 'chaotic organization' (Nye, 2002). In this way, the power disappears from the economic order, or the power that remains is presented as fragmented or 'pluralistic'. Different coalitions of states and non-state actors exercise predominance in different economic issues; there is no central vector, except in the military field. In a similar vein, Cox suggests that the British drive for empire was, in the minds of its drivers, just instrumental, a way of obtaining the 'right results', namely, 'a stable international space within which its goods could find a market and its capital a profitable home' (Cox, 2003: 17). He suggests that the British Empire's American successors have also just wanted the same, secure markets for goods and capital. If the USA has any unipolar power in Cox's version of the economics, it is benign power, aimed at making everyone play by the same rules of free exchange. This sort of treatment of the economics enables Cox, like Nye and many others, to focus on their first love, hard power and the USA's use of it. In what follows, I bring the economics back in.


Infections due to candida species and other fungi have increased dramatically in recent years. (Fraser et al., 1992) Candida is a yeast like fungi belongs to the sub class of Ascomycota. The genus is composed of a heterogeneous group of organisms, and nearly 20 of these species are considered to be significant pathogens of which 7 of them are well known pathogens to cause opportunistic infections.


We study some partially de Rham representations of $\mathrm{Gal}(\bar{L}/L)$ for a finite unramified extension $L$ of $\mathbb{Q}_p$. We study some related subspaces of Galois cohomology and of cohomology of $B$-pairs. As an application, we associate a locally $\mathbb{Q}_p$-analytic representation of $\mathrm{GL}_2(L)$ to a $2$-dimensional trianguline representation of $\mathrm{Gal}(\bar{L}/L)$, by generalizing Breuil's theory in the crystalline case.


Associated gas worth of tens of billions of dollars is flared annually during oil and gas production, which leads to resource waste and environmental issues. The combustion characteristics of assoc...


By means of summarizing the literature on academic degree and professional degree( domestic and abroad),it attempts to work on the MA education-model for new colleges considering the coordination of MA degree and new colleges. The main points cover educational goals,approaches and evaluation.


In this paper we show that MA + "1 CH implies that there exists a countably paracompact Moore space which is not normal. Further, if there is a model of set theory in which every countably paracompact Moore space is normal, then the normal Moore space conjecture is true in that model. Other examples are given, including a nonnormal space constructed with 0 which is countably compact, T3, first countable, locally compact, perfect, and hereditarily separable. Introduction. There are many examples of countably paracompact spaces which are not normal. For example (w, + 1) X <o, is even countably compact but not normal. However, it seems much more difficult to construct an example of a Moore space or, more generally, a perfect space which is countably paracompact but not normal. In this paper we give examples of such spaces, thus answering, or partially answering, a number of open questions of (2), (7)-(10), and (12). In §1, we describe a machine that takes an arbitrary normal, noncollection- wise normal space X, and from it produces a regular, nonnormal space, X*. Further properties of X* can be deduced from properties of X. In particular, if X is countably paracompact, perfect, Moore, first countable, or collection- wise Hausdorff, then A'* also has the corresponding property. In §2, we present corollaries of the methods of §1 that relate to Moore spaces. Non- Moore examples are given in §3, including an example which proves false the converse of Dowker's 1951 theorem stating that in perfect spaces, normality implies countable paracompactness. By a space, we will always mean a Hausdorff space. A space is called perfect if each closed set is Gs. MA + ~i CH stands for Martin's axiom plus the negation of the continuum hypothesis, while we abbreviate collectionwise normal by CWN and collectionwise Hausdorff by CWH. Terms not defined above can be found in (9). 1. The machine. We now describe a general machine that takes a normal, noncollectionwise normal space, X, and associates with it a regular, nonnor- mal space which we will call X*. The machine constructs X* in such a way that the following theorem is true.


The publishing industry influences the way in which scientific knowledge is disseminated. In the knowledge 'industry' neither the producer nor the consumer has control over the economics and marketing of knowledge. The researcher gives away research data free to the journals, which retain the copyright. The peer reviewers are also not usually paid. Journal subscription rates of scientific, technical and medical (STM) journals in North America have increased 200% over ten years and this is six times more than the inflation rate during that period.


As technology transforms the management accounting profession at an ever-increasing rate, are you concerned about having the necessary skills to further your career? Do you want to enhance your skill set but don't know where to start? If so, don't worry. In one or two weeks' worth of time (perhaps spread over several months), you can develop the essential competencies you need to adapt to the modern workplace.


Trash problem is one of many problems faced by big cities in Indonesia, including Semarang City. The trash that increases every day can certainly bring new problems to the environment as well as with health. Therefore, the government of Semarang city issued a policy of Regional Regulation number 6 of 2012 on Trash management in Semarang city. This research will further discuss about the implementation of trash management policy in Semarang city. The research results showed that the implementation of trash management policy implemented in two main stages, the trash reduction stages and trash management stages. In the implementation of these two stages there are several obstacles and also found things that become an inhibiting factors and supporting factors of trash management policy implementation in Semarang city. It also explained about trash management based on upstream and downstream management. The recommendation by this research are; improve the information dissemination on trash management to the community, improve and add facilities and infrastructure to support the implementation of trash management and improve the resources both from government agencies, communities and also private sector to jointly overcome the existing trash problem in Semarang city.


Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NOx is the most important strategy to remove the NOx emissions from internal combustion engines [1-2]. The reaction of NO with C3H6 has been studied in various conditions including high concentrations of oxygen. Ag/alumina has been found to be a promising catalyst for the selective catalytic reduction of NO* to N2 by hydrocarbons (HC-SCR) in laboratory tests as well as in fullscale diesel engine operation [3-4]. The steps in developing an active silver catalyst for practical applications involve knowledge of the mechanism, choice of the right metal content and correct support, adjustment of the concentration of the hydrocarbon to be used as a reducing agent, etc. In this work, we investigated and compared Ag/Al203 catalysts prepared by three different methods (Ag/Al203(I); Ag/Al203(II) and Ag/Al203(C)) and finally we synthesized Cu/Al203(I) and Ag-Cu/Al203(I) by a one step method. All silver catalysts prepared contained 3% Ag and those containing copper had 10% Cu. The spatial velocity of 19000/h was implemented in the same catalytic conditions: 3000 ppm C3H6 +1000 ppm NO + (1; 5; 10 and 15) % O2. It was found that the catalyst preparation method as well as the concentration of oxygen exerts a significant influence on catalyst activity. Catalyst Ag/Al203 (I) prepared by a one step method presented the best catalytic performance.


The present article describes simulation results for single queue P/M/1/K model. Simulink has been used to create this model and evaluate its performance. The main purpose of the research made is to optimize costs of resources allocation for TCP traffic type at the same time striving to achieve the best packet loss probability. The optimization was made with dynamic programming method by using Bellman algorithm for simulated traffic with different self-similarity (Hurst) parameter and utilization coefficient values. The results of this work indicate that Hurst parameter affects greatly the costs of resources to be allocated. With estimation of Hurst parameter for network traffic these results can be used to estimate buffer memory capacity and ensure the specified value of packet loss probability. The research made also suggests to increase buffer memory capacity rather than channel bandwidth, whenever it is possible.


Method for detecting an analyte in a sample of hemolyzed whole blood, comprising the steps of a) applying the sample of hemolyzed whole blood, which is known or suspected to contain the analyte of interest, to a column packed with chromatographic material restricted (RAM) to the analyte, b) eluting the analyte is fixed RAM c) detecting the analyte, so that at least in step (a) buffer pH above 8.0 is used.


Methyl linoleate hydroperoxide was decomposed with 0.1 m HCl in acetone-water (9:1, v/v) at 30°C. The decrease in four isomers of the hydroperoxide was monitored by HPLC without any derivatization. In both isomers having 13- and 9-hydroperoxy groups, those having trans, trans dienes decomposed more rapidly than those having cis, trans dienes. In all the isomers, the rates of decomposition were first order with respect to concentrations of the hydroperoxides. The yields of 2-nonenal and 12-oxo-10-dodecenoate were also measured by GC-MS. 12-Oxo-10-dodecenoate was produced only from the 13-isomers and 2-nonenal from the 9-isomers. The rapid decomposition of the trans, trans isomers didn't seem to be responsible for the formation of these aldehyde products.


This study aims to know the effect of allowances giving and bonuses on employees loyalty at PT. Telkom Branch of Sumbawa. The type of this study was associative study. The types of data used were quantitative and qualitative data. Sources of data in this study were primary and secondary data. Total populations were 80 respondents. The technique of determining sample used was saturated sample (cencus sampling.  Thus the sample in this study amounted to 44 people. The methods used to collect data were questionnaire and documentation. The data analysis technique used were the Classical Assumption Test, multiple linear regression analysis, t-test, F test and R2 test through SPSS software version 16.0 for windows. The results showed that partially the provision of benefits did not have a significant effect on employee loyalty, while bonuses had a positive and significant effect on employee loyalty at PT. Telkom branch of Sumbawa. Simultaneously the provision of allowances and bonuses has a significant effect on employee loyalty at PT. Telkom branch of Sumbawa. The percentage of influence of allowances and bonuses on employee loyalty at PT. Telkom branch of Sumbawa is 55.2%, while the remaining 44.8% is influenced by other variables outside of this study, such as leadership style, work stress, compensation, and work environment.


Objective: Intravenous immunoglobulin as an adjunctive treatment in sepsis was regarded as promising by a Cochrane meta‐analysis of smaller trials. In this phase III multicenter trial, we assessed whether intravenous immunoglobulin G (ivIgG) reduced 28‐day mortality and improved morbidity in patients with score‐defined severe sepsis. Design: Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicenter trial. Setting: Twenty‐three medical and surgical intensive care units in university centers and large teaching hospitals. Patients: Patients (n = 653) with score‐defined sepsis (sepsis score 12–27) and score‐defined sepsis‐induced severity of disease (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score 20–35). Interventions: Patients were assigned to receive either placebo or ivIgG (day 0, 0.6 g/kg body weight; day 1, 0.3 g/kg body weight). Measurements and Main Results: The prospectively defined primary end point was death from any cause after 28 days. Prospectively defined secondary end points were 7‐day all‐cause mortality, short‐term change in morbidity, and pulmonary function at day 4. Six hundred fifty‐three patients from 23 active centers formed the intention‐to‐treat group, 624 patients the per‐protocol group (placebo group, n = 303; ivIgG group, n = 321). The 28‐day mortality rate was 37.3% in the placebo group and 39.3% in the ivIgG group and thus not significantly different (p = .6695). Seven‐day mortality was not reduced, and 4‐day pulmonary function was not improved. Drug‐related adverse events were rare in both groups. Exploratory findings revealed a 3‐day shortening of mechanical ventilation in the surviving patients and no effect of ivIgG on plasma levels of interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor receptors I and II. Conclusions: In patients with score‐defined severe sepsis, ivIgG with a total dose of 0.9 g/kg body weight does not reduce mortality.


[Me2NH2]2Na11 [X2W21NaO72(OH)2] ·34H2O (X: SbIII (I), BiIII (II)) are prepared by a one-pot self-assembly of aqueous solutions of Na2WO4, NaOAc, and Me2NH2Cl to which a HCl solution of SbCl3 (or Bi(NO3)3 and Zr(NO3)4 for (II)) is added dropwise.


Abstract Ortolan buntings Emberiza hotulana have undergone one of the most severe population declines of any European farmland bird over the last thirty years. The aim of this study was to find out which habitat features, including crop characteristics, ortolan bunting prefers in Estonia in breeding areas. This study compared currently occupied and unoccupied ortolan bunting territories. Occupied areas contained significantly more tall broadleaf trees, crop types, structural elements (trees, bushes, roads, overhead power lines and buildings) and spring wheat, but also had lower crop drilling densities. Ortolan bunting territories were best described by a logistic regression model containing six variables: amount of structural point elements, length of power lines, amount of tall broadleaf trees and number of different crops had a positive effect, whereas crop density and area of autumn-sown crops had a negative effect. Based on the findings of this study, the following conservation measures can be recommended: lower crop densities; spring rather than autumn-sown crops; small-field systems containing a variety of crops; scattered scrub preserved or planted; habitat patches of permanent grasslands, hedges and tall broadleaf trees retained within the agricultural landscape.


Exploration of small structures and their transmissivity is very important in coal mining geology. the 3D seismic method is mainly applied in detecting geological structures while the electrical method is mainly applied in detecting structures which are filled with water. In this paper according to some examples, the principle, the field procedure, the method of data processing and interpretation are introduced. The TEM combining with 3D seismic method is applied in hydrogeological prospecting of mining district. The result indicates that the combination of TEM and seismic method can solve, to some extent, the problem of multi-solution, improve the detecting precision, and provide reliable hydro-geophysical information for the prevention and control of water disaster in coal mines.


The procedure of tubal ligation was 1st described in 1881 by a physician named Langren who preformed the operation postpartum on a patient after her 2nd cesarean section. The fallopian tubes were tied with a "strong silk ligature about one inch from the uterine attachment" instead of removing the ovaries because of the danger of hemorrhage. The term "tubal ligation" has persisted for over 100 years despite the fact that the procedure has been abandoned for more specific and effective techniques. The procedure is still performed in certain regions and there are reports of subsequent pregnancies occuring after tubal ligations apparently because of recanalization of the fallopian tubes or failure to ligate them properly. Medical and all 3rd party insurance carriers still honor the term tubal ligation although medicaid codes it as "tubal transection." In view of the current emphasis on quality assurance meaningful informed consent and proper documentation the term "tubal ligation" should be replaced by the term "tubal interruption" with the specific procedure used.


The purpose of this article is to discuss the applicability of the concept of materialized narrative in the analysis of border and mobility related experiences. In this article, the concept and its analytical potential are discussed in three examples that address difficult, even traumatic experiences related to various kinds of border crossings in Finnish and Estonian contexts. The concept of materialized narrative allows the conceptualization of border and mobility related traumas in supplementary and alternative ways. The materialized narrative is defined as a form of narrative and non-narrative knowledge that is linked with objects that people carry with them across various borders and their difficult experiences. The aim of the concept is to bring together the narrative and non-narrative knowledge of traumatic experiences that is embodied in a material object. The research thesis of the article is to examine how a materialized narrative can function as a trauma narrative. The article argues that materialized narratives can function as instruments for processing traumatic experiences related to border crossings, similarly to autobiographical trauma narratives that are regarded to be among the most central narrative forms analyzed in multidisciplinary trauma research. The research material includes interviews and artwork accomplished in the project "A Lost Mitten and Other Stories: Experiences of Borders, Mobilities, and New Neighbor Relations" (funded by the Kone Foundation).


Research in mainstream and language teacher education has underlined the importance of understanding teacher identity.This paper presents the main findings of a long-term study on the professional identity of teachers in the early years of teaching. It analyzes the main influences in such a way that the identity of new teachers are shaped and reshaped over time. Through their own perceptions, analyzes of the school culture in which they work and the student's point of view, it shows the interaction between contextual, cultural and biographical factors that influence their teaching practice.Teachers' personal, professional histories and pre-service training in addition to cultural issues and school leadership, emerge as more powerful mediating effects (compared to previous literature) in determining the types and relative stability and instability of the professional identity that teachers develop in the early years of teaching and thus the types of teachers they become and their effectiveness.


No money. No targets. No consensus on controversial issues such as guaranteeing access to affordable drugs, stiffened measures against the tobacco and alcohol industries, and regulations to curb international trade in unhealthy products.

It seems the United Nations' (UN) newly minted political


ABSTRACT Engineering Drawing (ED) is one of the fundamental courses for various engineering disciplines. However, first-year engineering undergraduates often face difficulties in learning and solving ED problems that require visualisation of 3D objects. Conventional and modern teaching methods do assist the teaching-learning of a subject but do not guarantee the elimination of the learning difficulties, specifically related to visualising spatial relationships. Mental rotation (MR) skills play a major role in learning such concepts, and students should be trained for the execution of MR processes. This paper presents a 3D visualisation tool-based training programme where students practice MR processes. The training guides students through hands-on tasks, coupled with the cognitive steps of MR. We investigate the effect of the training on improving 253 engineering undergraduates' ED problem-solving performance by administering a pipeline of four research studies. Results show that the training successfully helps students in enhancing their ED problem-solving performance.


Mobile SoCs are becoming extremely complex to meet the relentless demand for more compute power and a richer user experience in mobile applications. Qualcomm's Hexagon DSP in 28nm CMOS consumes 58mW/MHz at 0.6V, while Renesas and MediaTek present multicore heterogeneous processors with low power to achieve long battery life and boost performance by exploiting thermal headroom. A multicore processor from KAIST delivers a rich user experience with a 30fps 720p augmented reality chip for wearable electronics. To minimize standby-power, NEC introduces a 16b MTJ-based non-volatile microcontroller with low wakeup time among NV SoCs. Additionally, power-efficient digital baseband SoCs from imec, the Technical University of Dresden and Ericsson are presented, which support multi-standard communication at low power using fine-grain power management techniques.


This work is an analysis and edition of a previously unpublished essay by Charles Darwin entitled "Reflection on reading my Geological notes." The original draft of the essay appears to have been written in 1834, that is, during Darwin's voyage on H.M.S. Beagle (1831-1836). In the essay Darwin developed a theory of the geological formation of South America that included a narrative framework for the history of life on the continent. His treatment of the history of life is not yet transmutationist, but it is highly sequential.


The accuracy of two resistive MHD codes based on very different methods is studied by simulating the same problem of plasmoid formation and ejection in the geomagnetic tail initiated by resistive diffusion, using identical initial and boundary conditions and a 2-D approximation. One of the codes is a modified explicit leapfrog scheme, which has been used extensively in the past for similar problems. The other scheme is an implicit particle-in-cell MHD code (FLIP-MHD). The results from both schemes agree within a few percent in all major characteristics: onset and growth rate of the instability, formation and tailward motion of a plasmoid, scale size of the perturbation and details of the mode structures. FLIP, however, predicts a slightly slower tailward motion of the plasmoid. Both simulations exhibit highly variable earthward flow from the reconnection site with similar averages and similar fluctuation levels, resembling observed bursty bulk flows. Due to differences in the phase of these fluctuations, however, the instantaneous flow may differ in the two simulations.


The Earth Radiation Budget Experiment wide-field-of-view (WFOV) radiometers aboard the Earth Radiation Budget Satellite (ERBS) provided a 15-year record of high-quality measurements for research into the radiant energy balance of the Earth. Monthly mean maps of RSR and outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) are primary data products from these measurements. The ERBS orbit had an inclination of 57° so as to precess through all local times every 72 days. Because of limited temporal sampling, some regions were not measured sufficiently often by the WFOV radiometers to produce accurate radiation flux values for these maps. The temporal sampling of any one region is very irregular; therefore, it is necessary to consider each region in detail for each month. An analysis of the errors, which result from computing the average value of the albedo of a region over a day or month based on limited sampling, is presented. It is necessary to take into account synoptic variations and their time correlations and differences of the regions' diurnal cycle from that assumed by the time-averaging algorithms. An expression is derived for the variance of the error of the computed daily and monthly mean albedo. Temporal correlation and variability of the albedo field are specified a priori. This analysis has been used for quality assurance to evaluate the temporal sampling errors of monthly mean RSR maps computed from the measurements by the WFOV radiometers aboard the ERBS and to delete those values for which the error variance is excessive.


(54) SYSTEMAND METHOD FOR ANALYSIS AND (58) Field of Classification Search AUTHENTICATION OF COVERT SECURITY USPC ......... 382/100, 103, 106, 112-116, 162, 168, INFORMATION USING ASMART DEVICE 382/173, 181-189, 209, 232, 254, 274, 276, 382/286-298,305, 312, 243: 283/94: (71) Applicant: Document Security Systems, Inc., 707/5:359/19; 348/14.13 Rochester, NY (US) See application file for complete search history.


This work demonstrates an application of the generalized stochastic perturbation technique and the corresponding Stochastic Finite Element Method in numerical analysis of the stresses for the steel structural element subjected to higher temperatures. This approach is based on higher order Taylor expansion of the input random parameters and of the resulting state functions and, independently, on the Least Squares Method determination of the structural responses to the input random parameters. An initial temperature equivalent to the fire exposure of the steel structure is taken as the input Gaussian random variable and uniquely defined by the constant mean value at outer surfaces of this element, where material parameters of the steel as Young modulus, yield strength, heat conductivity, capacity and thermal elongation are all considered as highly temperature-dependent. These functions are adopted according to the experimental evidence provided in the literature. We adopt various degree of polynomial functions to verify an influence of the response function choice upon the resulting probabilistic characteristics. This study is an example of a hybrid usage of the FEM system ABAQUS and the computer algebra system MAPLE in stochastic transient fully coupled thermo-mechanical analysis, where up to the fourth order probabilistic characteristics of the temperatures, displacements and stresses may be directly used in fire reliability analysis of the civil engineering structures with the temperature both independent and dependent material characteristics. The results obtained in this study may serve directly in the stochastic reliability analysis of the steel structures subjected to a fire according to both First and Second Order Reliability Methods (FORM and SORM).


In this paper the author discusses the geoteetonic features of China based on the distribution of Bouguer anomlies by 1~*×1~* in China. The author sag gest that China can be divided into three tectonic domains; Cathaysian-type diwa domain in the east, platform-diwa domain in the center and Central Asia-type diwa domain in the west on the basis of diwa theory and geologicgeophysic data. He describes features of tectonic regions, including crustal structure, crustal deformation, stress field and crustal activity.


macrophages in vitro and in vivo Georgios Sogkas, Shahzad Nawaz Syed, Eduard Rau, David Stegner, Timo Vogtle, Bernhard Nieswandt, Reinhold Ernst Schmidt and Johannes Engelbert Gessner 1 Hannover Medical School, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Germany 2 McMaster University, Faculty of health Sciences, Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, Canada 3 University Hospital and Rudolf Virchow Center, DFG Research Center for Experimental Biomedicine, University of Wurzburg, Chair of Experimental Biomedicine, Germany


The prominence of religious issues in eighteenth-century British politics has received growing, and gratifying, recognition in recent years. In particular, attacks upon, and defences of, the doctrine of the Trinity have been seen as central to theological, and hence to political, debate. For many, the term 'orthodoxy' without qualification referred to one's position on this question. Although there is perhaps still insufficient emphasis upon trinitarian orthodoxy as a central feature of what is fashionably termed the state's self-image, Unitarianism is rightly perceived as important to critiques of the existing regime, especially after 1750. Historians of the Wilkites, of later eighteenth-century radicalism and of peace campaigns in the Napoleonic period, have cast Unitarians in at least a supporting, and sometimes a leading, role. Yet too often Unitarianism has appeared elusive and difficult to pin down, manyheaded and half-concealed under the vague label of 'heterodoxy'.


: Augustine ' s City of God (412 – 426/427 CE) is only nominally a book on cities. Inspired by a historical event, the City of God ' s project corresponds to the full-scale historicisation of a long-established theological-political trope within which space, in general, and urban space, in particular, seem to play a negligible role. Is this merely because Augustine ' s two cities are only ' allegorically ( mys-tice ) ' such? Aim of this paper is not to reinvent the wheel by ascertaining that Augustine resorts to a conventional imagery in order to visualize the way in which a human dichotomy takes shape and runs through the ages. My intention is rather: (a) to investigate the actual presence and significance of city-spaces in the City of God ; (b) to apply the research programme of " urban religion " to the material provided by the book; (c) to verify whether and to what extent the Le-febvrian concept of " non-city " fits the post-urban reality of Augustine ' s heavenly civitas.


This paper presents a definitive account of the effect of wettability on oil recovery from Berea sandstone based on the results of more than 50 slow-rate laboratory waterfloods. Closely reproducible wettability conditions and waterflood recoveries were obtained with wettability, depending on the crude oil, brine composition, aging temperature, and initial water saturation. Maximum oil recovery by waterflooding was obtained at very weakly water-wet conditions from shortly after breakthrough up to discontinuation of the test at 20 PV of water injected. In most of the tests, coproduction of oil and water continued long after breakthrough.


Paranormal Encounters: Attacks, Manifestations, Attachments, Poltergeists is a English book written by Dr Kelly Renee Schutz. This book falls under Body


Lithium ion batteries are powering a revolution in emission-free transport, but a significant opportunity exists in the improvement of their charging time. Fast charging will change the usage of the electric vehicles by enabling several charge and discharge cycles per hour. This will lead to an increased heat load on the cells and thus require an improved cooling system design. The main focus of the paper will be on aspects of immersion cooling and the performance assessment of the dielectric fluid that comes directly into contact with the cells to remove excessive heat generated by them.


Activity patterns of the sand viper, Vipera ammodytes from the central Balkans (Serbia, Montenegro and Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia) were analysed. The total sample ( n = 118) was divided into adult males and females, and depending on the part of the day, habitat type, exposition, and behaviour in two separate seasons (spring and summer). Simple correspondence analysis showed that in spring, males and females were associated with different expositions, while in summer, they displayed different behaviours. Multivariate correspondence analysis showed that in spring males were found more often while basking during the midday in the open forests at south-western exposition. In summer, females were found more often while basking or hiding in the morning in rocky terrains at eastern and southern expositions. The results point out that seasonal variation and intergender differences in behaviour and microhabitat use may occur in sand vipers, as was previously observed in other viper species.


"Abstract: All large armies (EU and/or NATO) have pharmaceutical production facilities to provide the necessary antidotes for the troops and the population: The French Army Medical Directorate produces many military-specific pharmaceutical products in its own laboratory, the Turkish Army owns its own medicines factory, including CBRN antidotes, the US Army, in addition to a sustained drug purchase program in the pharmaceutical industry has launched a new concept: Pharmacy on demand. Providing the armed forces with antidotes is a necessity, the concept for their endowement in this sense can be based on imports (sometimes impossible to achieve) or on the national development of a specialized production structure. The design or construction of a specific production capacity for antidotes can be accomplished on multiple variants, with a complexity proportional to the identified need. The total costs are high, but the objective and implementation of effective antidote supply mechanisms is a security guarantee for the armed forces and the civilian population (through commercialization to allied forces), given the risks of terrorist threats and hybrid warfare. Keywords: medical protection, antidote, production, technological platform, medical countermeasures, pharmaceutical technique, orphan drug production "


This paper reafirms previous results that show a distinct change in performance of moving average trading rules on the Dow Jones Index over the past 10 years relative to the previous 90 years. The performance in forecasting conditional means has changed significantly. In contrast to this is the fact that technical rules continue to forecast conditional variances in a similar fashion to the previous 90 years. Several tests are performed to demonstrate the robustness of these results over alternative trading mechnasims. Finally, the results are discussed in the context of datasnooping versus structural changes in the Dow.


This work has explored the possibilities of real-time, automatic, recognition of large-scale driving situations. Employing a statistical pattern recognition framework, implemented by means of feedforward neural networks, models were developed for recognising, from vehicle control data, four classes of driving situations: highway, main road, suburban traffic and city traffic.


The constraints of multi-limits container loading problem include the limits of the position of gravity center,the weight per container,the placing sequence, orientation and location of cargos.A tabu search algorithm(TS) in designed to solve this problem based on nature number coding.To extend the search space,two kinds of neighborhood and two kinds of tabu litt are proposed in this algorithm.The principle of the TS is introduced,two representative results of calculated examples and the analysis of them are given,which indicate the effectiveness of the TS for optimization of multi-limit container-loading problem.


This research aims to determine the effects of fermented kepok banana peel as feed by EM4 against the percentage of male local sheep non carcass. This research was conducted in Praditya Rahardja's Farm, Jalan Bunga Rinte, Kecamatan Medan Tuntungan, Kota Medan from Jully to October 2019. The design used was a completely randomized design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 5 replications so that 20 experimental units. While the sheep were cut for parameter of non carcass as much as 2 from each treatment to produce 8 sheep. The treatments given are P0 (40% kepok banana peel without fermentation in feed), P1 (20% fermented of kepok banana peel in feed), P2 (40% fermented of kepok banana peel in feed), and P3 (60 % fermented of kepok banana peel in feed). The parameters used were percentage of head weight without skin, feet without skin, skin, tail without skin, trachea and lungs, heart, liver, blood, intestine and compound stomach male local sheep.
The result showed that the utilization of fermented kepok banana peel as feed for local sheep had no signoificant effect on percentage of weight the head without skin, feet without skin, skin, tail without skin, trachea and lungs, hearts, and liver. But had significant effect on percentage of weight the blood, intestine, and compound stomach male local sheep.


Light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are among the key innovations that have revolutionized the lighting industry, due to their versatility in applications, higher reliability, longer lifetime, and higher efficiency compared with other light sources. The demand for increased lifetime and higher reliability has attracted a significant number of research studies on the prognostics and lifetime estimation of LEDs, ranging from the traditional failure data analysis to the latest degradation modeling and machine learning based approaches over the past couple of years. However, there is a lack of reviews that systematically address the currently evolving machine learning algorithms and methods for fault detection, diagnostics, and lifetime prediction of LEDs. To address those deficiencies, a review on the diagnostic and prognostic methods and algorithms based on machine learning that helps to improve system performance, reliability, and lifetime assessment of LEDs is provided. The fundamental principles, pros and cons of methods including artificial neural networks, principal component analysis, hidden Markov models, support vector machines, and Bayesian networks are presented. Finally, discussion on the prospects of the machine learning implementation from LED packages, components to system level reliability analysis, potential challenges and opportunities, and the future digital twin technology for LEDs lifetime analysis is provided.


The autonomous orbit determination of the navigation constellation uses only bidirectional ranging data of the inter-satellite link for data processing. The lack of space-time benchmark information related to the Earth inevitably causes overall rotational uncertainty in the constellation, leading to a decrease in orbit accuracy and affecting user positioning accuracy. This study (1) introduces a method for rotation correction in distributed autonomous orbit determination based on inter-satellite bidirectional ranging; (2) conducts constellation autonomous orbit determination and time synchronization processing experiments based on inter-satellite ranging data for the 24 medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites in the Beidou-3 global satellite navigation system (BDS-3); and (3) makes comparative analyses on the accuracy of autonomous orbit determination based on three rotation correction cases, including a no-rotation-correction case, independent satellite constraints case, and global satellite constraints case. The experimental results are described as follows. For the no-rotation-correction case, the prediction error of the orbital inclination angle (iot, i) for the entire constellation on the 30th day was 2.11 × 10−7/rad, the prediction error of the right ascension of the ascending point (Omega, Ω) was 2.25 × 10−7/rad, and the average root mean square (RMS) of the user range error (URE) for the entire constellation orbit was 1.41 m. In the autonomous orbit determination experiment with independent constraints on satellites, the prediction error of i for the entire constellation on the 30th day was 5.43 × 10−7/rad, the prediction error of Ω was 2.03 × 10−7/rad, and the average RMS of the orbital URE for the entire constellation was 1.09 m. In the autonomous orbit determination experiment with global satellite constraints, the prediction error of i for the entire constellation on the 30th day was 5.31 × 10−7/rad, the prediction error of Ω was 1.95 × 10−7/rad, and the RMS of the orbital URE for the entire constellation was 0.94 m. According to the analysis of the above experimental results, compared with the autonomous orbit determination under the no-rotation-correction case, the adoption of an algorithm for independent satellite constraints to correct the overall constellation rotation weakens the constellation rotation influence; however, it may destroy the overall constellation configuration, which affects the stability of autonomous orbit determination. Finally, the algorithm based on global satellite constraints both impairs the influence of constellation rotation and maintains the overall constellation configuration.


ABSTRACT Research indicates that mental health and medical professionals often hold negative views of overweight or obese people. Little is known about weight prejudice among social work students. In order to address this gap in the literature, this study examines the attitudes of Bachelor of social work and Master of social work students (n = 250) toward persons who are overweight and/or obese. Consistent with the literature, findings indicate generally those with higher body mass index scores are more likely to believe that obesity is beyond their control. Further, although age was correlated with Beliefs About Obese People scores, it was not a significant predictor. Implications for social work social justice and cultural competency curriculum are discussed.


We study quantum bipartite systems in a random pure state, where von Neumann entropy is considered as a measure of the entanglement. Expressions of the first and second exact cumulants of von Neumann entropy, relevant respectively to the average and fluctuation behavior, are known in the literature. The focus of this paper is on its skewness that specifies the degree of asymmetry of the distribution. Computing the skewness requires additionally the third cumulant, an exact formula of which is the main result of this work. In proving the main result, we obtain as a byproduct various summation identities involving polygamma and related functions. The derived third cumulant also leads to an improved approximation to the distribution of von Neumann entropy.


By chiral effects one understands manifestations of chiral gauge anomaly and of gravitational chiral anomaly in hydrodynamics. In recent two-three years our understanding of the chiral effects has considerably changed. Here we present mini-review of two topics. First, shift in understanding symmetry which underlies the chiral magnetic effect and, second, interpretation of the chiral kinematical effect uncovered recently.


PURPOSE: To provide blended milk for infants, which has lower antigenicity as compared with any conventional blended milk for infants and shows no bitterness and also has emulsification activity and also to provide the production of the blended milk. CONSTITUTION: In this production, a protein mixture is hydrolyzed by using an enzyme mixture consisting of trypsin and chymotrypsin to produce the objective blended milk contg. a mixture of whey protein and casein, the degree of hydrolysis of which mixture is 4 to 10%. COPYRIGHT: (C)1995,JPO


Because the small size of recording dots in quantum magnetic disk,it is very difficult to measure the magnetic field numerical distribution using the ordinary method.To prove the feasibility of quantum magnetic disk,magnetic-field distribution of quantum magnetic disk is calculated by finite element method (FEM) software.On the assumption of the magnetization direction is horizontal,we obtain 2D magnetic field distribution of circle quantum dots with diameter 20 nm and distance 10 nm and that of square quantum dots with edge 20 nm and distance 20 nm.It is proved that the magnetic fields distribute periodically and the length of period is the length of dot plus the distance between the dots.This calculation could be a good reference for the reseach of quantum magnetic disk.


The Communist Youth League in universities has the advantage in politics,organization,extra-curriculum academic and scientific activities,and campus cultural activities.A mechanism should be established which planned generally,guided with classification,educated hierarchically,and promoted with practice.It should also be in guidance with projects and interact coordinately,evaluate reasonably,and select and recommend.It should play an important role in serving the training of innovative talents.


Review of the book 'Up against the Walmarts' by Don Taylor and Jeanne Smalling Archer Published by American Management Association


Multihop networking is a new field of research for wireless mobile networks where the coverage and use of the cellular and other centralized networks can be expanded through the use of a cell?s edgelocated nodes. These nodes simply become the relay nodes for the mobile devices outside the coverage area of the cell. The first technical issue to come out of such configuration is the additional delay encountered in relaying messages from an outside device into and from the network. However, other important issues such as security of the data to be relayed by a middle (and unknown) node and cooperation of nodes to become relay nodes are not far from the top of the list of technical problems. Resource management for both the centralized network and the individual mobile nodes also becomes an important issue.


In order to have an insight into the microscale deformation characteristics and failure mechanism of LY12 aluminium alloy processed by laser shot peening(LSP) and laser irradiation(LI),in-situ tensile behavior of the alloy sample was studied by loading machine and observed under scanning electron microscope(SEM)using different power densities laser shot peening and laser irradiation.Tensile load curves of all specimens and micro-regional images of SEM were obtained.Using digital image correlation(DIC) technique,micro-regional deformation under different loads was measured through SEM images.The fracture surface of these failure tensile specimens were taken by SEM and analyzed by DIC.Experimental results show that the largest LY12 aluminium alloy tensile load is significantly affected by laser power density and the junction area processed by laser treatment has quite strong strain concentration.


In this paper the state of the art of pseudospark switch development is reported. In addition to the replacement of thyratrons for high power applications in TE gas discharge lasers, pseudospark switches have been tested at high repetition rates up to 2 kHz. In order to minimize the erosion rate and to reduce total switch in ductance, multichannel pseudospark switches with various different geometrical configurations have been investigated: a linear, a coaxial, and a radial arrangement of the parallel discharge channels. All three configurations possess distinct advantages in pulsed power technology, i.e. linear systems fit well into striplines. Beyond this pseudospark switches gain increasing importance in high current devices like fast pinches, plasma focii, or powerful modulators, i.e. for magnetoforming. A single-channel switch for hold-off voltage up to 30 kV at peak currents of -- 100 kA has been tested for a damped sinusoidal pulse of 5 /spl mu/sec duration at a repetition rate up to 0.1 Hz, without and with electrode cooling. The expected lifetime for tungsten or related alloys as electrode material is greater 10/sup 5/ shots under these conditions corresponding to a charge transfer of 2 x 10/sup 5/ Cb.


This research was designed to develop a set of prediction equations to measure nutrient composition of Kansas sorghum silages by near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS). Because sorghum silages are highly variable in grain content, we included a large number of cultivars to develop a robust set of equations for dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber. The results indicate that NIRS analysis of sorghum silages is feasible.


Abstract The National Adolescent Student Health Survey (NASHS) represents perhaps the most comprehensive study of adolescent health in the last quarter-century. This article addresses two primary issues within the context of that study: (1) factors affecting exposure to school health education programs, and (2) the consequences of school-based health education. Health education was found to be widespread, although needs were underserved in the areas of violence, AIDS, STDs, suicide, and consumer health. Health needs varied by sex, grade, and region, although the health curriculum varied primarily by grade and was less related to needs by sex. Instruction regarding fighting and drug use was more prevalent in schools with the highest levels of fighting and drug use, indicating a connection between the health curriculum and local needs. Adolescents who had received health instruction were consistently more knowledgeable about the topic of instruction than their uninstructed peers. In many cases that knowledg...


This paper mainly introduces the measuring methods of corrosion correlated parameters by the use of fiber optic sensing techniques and the their applications, systematically analyses advantages, disadvantages and development of various methods, and definitely puts forword the complex measurements of various parameters, such as Cl~- concentration, pH and humidity, temperature and strain, steel and aluminium, for corrosion monitoring. The complex measurement is not only the evaluation way of environment corrosion, but also provides theoretical foundation for material protection.


Since the early 1980's it has been suggested that tight divertor baffling can improve the performance of tokamak discharges, for example, in the achievement of high energy confinement times [1]. It was further believed that tight baffling could result in better neutral compression/helium exhaust and in improved impurity screening. All of these would ultimately improve the performance of an energy-producing tokamak reactor. Over the intervening years, virtually every divertor tokamak has attempted to optimize baffling by arranging the mechanical divertor structure to restrict the leakage of gas out of the region. One problem with this activity, and one of the reasons that definitive answers on many aspects of the subject have yet to be obtained, is that mechanical changes typically take of order one year to institute and thus, before and after comparisons are made across years, under varying machine conditions, magnetic geometry and diagnostic calibrations (see for example [2, 3]).


Benzothiazole derivative have been synthesized by simple condensation of benzothiazole with chloroethylacetate and further treated with hydrazine hydrate to obtain hydrazino benzothiazole. The compounds were characterized by elemental analysis IR, 1 H- NMR spectroscopy and mass spectroscopy. The 1 H- NMR spectroscopy indicated the formation of hydrazino compounds then the compounds were screened for Medicinal chemistry is the science that deals with the discovery and design of new therapeutic chemicals and their development into useful medicines. 1 It may involves synthesis of new compounds, investigation of relationship between the structure of the natural or synthetic compounds and their biological activities, elucidation of their interaction with the receptor of various kind including enzyme and DNA, 2


The statistical characteristics of dislocation-induced elastic distortion fi elds in deformed FCC crystals are investigated both experimentally and theoretically. Discrete dislocation realizations are generated by the discrete dislocation dynamics method and the induced elastic distortion fi elds are computed by solving the corresponding boundary value problem. Moreover, sample three-dimensional X-ray measurements for the lattice misorientation are also presented to address the corresponding statistical features and to highlight the possibility to conduct a comparison between experiments and dislocation dynamics simulations. This analysis addresses critical issues related to the similarities and differences, in terms of the spatial characteristics, between the elastic strain and lattice rotation fi elds induced by the same dislocation structure. Moreover, the signifi cance of the elastic strain fi eld contribution to the dislocation density tensor, which is usually considered insignifi cant during the experimental detection of the dislocation density tensor, is also investigated quantitatively. Finally, we present a preliminary comparison between the elastic distortion fi elds computed based on discrete dislocation simulations and those measured experimentally through 3D X-ray microscopy. This study was supported by the U.S. DOE Offi ce of Basic Energy Sciences, Division of Materials Science & Engineering.


The phonetics of Linchuan dialect retains many features of the phonetics of Chinese Tong\|Song dynasties period today, so it is regarded as \!the animate fossil of middle\|ancient China\". The relation between the dialect and the ancient poetry was mentioned. The form of Linchuan dialect and the features of the phonetics were related roughly. The contrast between Linchuan dialect and the metrical pattern of Tong\|Song poetry, such as PINGZE and YAYUN, were introuduced in this paper to reveal one aspect of Linchuan dialect in histortic culture.


Animals may delay reproduction under temporarily high predation risk. If temporarily high predation risk has a suppressive effect on prey reproduction on a large scale, there should be a negative association between the predation risk level and the proportion of breeding individuals in prey populations. We used long-term trapping data on two vole species and data on predator densities to find out whether there was a relationship between the predation risk level and the proportion of breeding individuals in a small mammal assemblage with cyclic fluctuations. In spring and, in the field vole (Microtus agrestis), in autumn, current predation risk from small mustelids could explain observed variation in the proportion of mature voles better than their own density, current or previous. The association between the proportion of breeding field voles and the current predation risk from small mustelids was negative in autumn, but not in summer when the current reproductive value is high relative to the residual value. For bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus), which have a lower predation risk than field voles, there was a negative relationship between predation risk from mustelids and proportion of breeding individuals in early summer, but not in late summer or autumn. In late summer, the proportion of breeding year-born bank voles was negatively related to the vole density in spring. Our results indicate that the indirect effects of predators on vole populations may be of great importance on a large scale, and that these effects should be taken into consideration in studies on factors regulating vole populations


ABSTRACT Background Young people with intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) get information, education, and support about social and sexual relationships from different sources. Staff are often involved in providing this education and support. We explored if and how this support is offered to young people transitioning to adulthood. Methods Focus groups were conducted with 17 staff from 3 transition services to illicit information about their experiences providing this education and support. Findings A key theme was that staff are "reluctant counsellors." Although staff provided social and sexual education, they reported being underprepared and relied primarily on their own values as guidance. They did this in full recognition that transition services filled a social gap for participants, blurring the lines between education and social support. Conclusion Further research is needed to inform sexuality and relationship policy and practice during transition to adulthood, as this is a key learning and developmental time for young adults with IDD.


SCIAMACHY(Scanning Imaging Absorption spectroMeter for Atmospheric ChartographY) onboard the European Space Agency's ENVIronmental SATellite (ENVISAT) observes the earth's atmosphere in the nadir, limb and solar/lunar occultation geometry in UV-NIR (240nm – 2380nm) spectral range. The instrument provides total columns as well as vertical profiles of the atmospheric trace gases that are relevant to the ozone chemistry, air pollution and global climate change issues, from the troposphere upto the mesosphere.


The process of proparing manganese from pyrolusite by reductive leaching are studied and the optimum leaching condition is obtained. On leaching conditions as follows pyrolusite∶pyrite∶sulfuric acid ratio is 1∶0 3∶0 45, the leaching temperature 96℃, leaching time 7 h, the solid liqud ratio is 1∶5, leaching Mn percentage of 97 00%. The technology has some advntages, such as saving energy, low production cost and high recovery of Mn.


The focus of material configurational mechanics is the free energy variation of a system due to the defects(such as inclusion,cavity,dislocation,crack and plastic zone etc.)configurational(such as shape,size and position etc.)evolution in material.In this study,nondestructive evaluation of material configurational force in elastoplastic materials was carried out.The displacement distribution of specimen was obtained through experimental measurement based on digital image correlation.According to the definition of material configurational force formula,the distribution of defect's configurational force in elastoplastic materials was calculated.The methods are summarized below:the displacement distribution of specimen is obtained through experimental measurement based on digital image correlation;the strain and displacement differential are calculated through the smoothed displacement by spline function technique;the surface stress distribution of elastoplastic materials is calculated based on Ramberg-Osgood theory;the total strain energy density is evaluated by integration of nonlinear strain-stress relation.The method proposed in this paper is applicable for both common elastic materials and elastoplastic materials,and can be used to evaluate the material configurational force for various defects and defect clusters.


Describes adaptive techniques used to evaluate and teach mobility to the physically handicapped blind individual, with emphasis on users of wheelchairs and walkers. We stress the importance of working closely with physical therapists and/or other rehabilitation professionals involved with the client to jointly determine the most suitable orthopedic devices. The use of electronic travel aids is discussed, and a system designed by the authors to mount the Mowat Sensor to a walker is described.


Data from two simulations on particle limited grain growth are reported. For 3D simulations the same type of strong correlation between particles and grain boundaries previously found in 2D simulations was found with the limiting grain size scaling in 3D with (l/f){sup 0.31}. Very much higher particle correlation with grain boundaries and particularly with grain corners was obtained than expected for the random microstructure. The size distribution of the pinned grain structures showed considerable differences from that of dynamically evolving single phase structures -- notably an absence of small grains with radii less than 0.3 and the presence of a few large grains in the pinned samples. In 2D simulations from a finite starting grain size which may explain at least part of the wide scatter in pinned grain sizes reported from experimental studies. It is suggested that normal grain growth ceases when the smallest grains in the size distribution can no longer shrink. Finally limited new experimental data on grain growth with a stable dispersion in an Al-Fe alloy is reported. This data is, at least partially, in agreement with the simulation results but most strikingly shows a ready transition to abnormal grain growth at low volume fraction ofmore » second phase particles. A simple model for this effect is proposed -- based on the Zener analysis but applied only to abnormal grain growth into a fine grain structure pinned to a small grain size in the manner suggested by the simulations. 39 refs., 14 figs., 5 tabs.« less