AIM: To evaluate the cytological epithelial modification of conjunctiva in VKC and correlate with its various clinical features, hematological. Investigations and response to treatment. MATERIALS AND METHOD: This was a prospective study of 50 consecutive patients of VKC presenting to M.S Ramaiah Hospital, who were willing to undergo laboratory Investigations. A detailed preliminary eye examination, including Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), Tear film examination including Schirmer's test, Tear Break Up Time, Mucin ferning patterns, Tears pH, Conjunctival Impression Cytology (CIC), Skin Prick Test and Blood Investigations like Hemoglobin, Complete Blood Count, ESR, Absolute Eosinophil Count(AEC), Serum IgE Levels (S.IgE) were done. RESULT: Patients belonged to the age group of 4 to 25 years and M:F ratio was 4:1.Total number of patients with Palpebral VKC & mixed VKC were 13 And 37 respectively and none had limbal VKC. Total number of patients with VKC was 50 out of which Patients with normal AEC and normal S.IgE were 4(8%), with raised AEC & normal S.IgE Were 4(8%) and with raised or normal AEC & raised IgE were 42 (84%). All patients had alkaline tear film, abnormal ferning patterns were observed in 49 (98%), and abnormal TBUT in 37(74%) patients. 28(56%) had abnormal CIC grading.89.28 % (25/28) patients of abnormal CIC had Raised S.IgE levels. Only 37.5% (3/8) of VKC cases with normal S.IgE levels showed abnormal CIC. Only in 52.38% of patients with severe VKC could the allergen (skin prick test) be identified. 80. 95 b% of severe VKC cases had raised S.IgE. 59.95% (N: 25) cases had positive skin prick test out of 42 cases with raised S.IgE. VKC patients with Normal AEC &IgE levels were easily cured with mast cell stabilizers, antihistaminics and artificial tears VKC patients with raised AEC levels & Normal IgE levels were treated with topical steroids during the attacks and mast cell stabilizers and artificial tears, VKC patients with raised AEC &IgE were resistant to treatment with steroids and immunomodulators. CONCLUSION: VKC seems to be a strongly IgE mediated. There is need for a more robust skin prick test to identify the allergens/atopy. Immunotherapy should probably be considered early in the disease status reduce ocular morbidity


An approach to overcome the fluctuation of power generation under the influence of temperature and light intensity by utilizing a hybrid electrochemical energy storage of photovoltaic (PV) DC microgrid system. It can perform peak load shifting of power generation. The I-V curves were formed from different light and temperature conditions by simulating the PV array mathematical model, and the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) of power generation was acquired with a modified disturbance observation method. We have devised a balanced energy storage strategy using a non-isolated bidirectional DC/DC converter connected to a DC bus and a hybrid electrochemical battery to achieve the management of battery. The double closed-loops improve the energy storage system, which the inner loop controls the battery current and the outer loop regulates the DC link voltage. To increase the generation power and solve the imbalance of power by storing the PV power generation in the energy storage battery. The acquired simulation and experiment results have demonstrated feasibility of the proposed system.


ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a complex remedy compared with placebo to treat menopausal symptoms. Methods A total of 102 peri- and postmenopausal women requiring treatment for menopausal symptoms were randomized to receive a complex anthroposophic remedy prepared in the homeopathic manner (Apis regina tota GL D4, Argentum metallicum D5, Ovaria bovis GL D4), 3 × 10 globuli daily (2 × 12 weeks) and placebo (12 weeks) in different orders of remedy (R) and placebo (P) (1: R/R/P, 2: P/R/R, 3: R/P/R). The primary endpoint was change in climacteric symptoms assessed by the Menopause Rating Scale II (MRS II) after 12 weeks. Secondary endpoints were changes of symptoms and safety throughout the study. Results Reduction of symptoms after 12 weeks did not differ between remedy and placebo (total score MRS II: –1.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) −2.8 to 0 vs. −2.3, 95% CI −4.4 to −0.3, p = 0.441) and had no clinical relevance (defined as reduction in MRS II ≥ −3.5). Comparison of secondary outcomes at 12 weeks between remedy and placebo or between groups after the 2nd or 3rd period compared to previous periods did not differ. Treatment with remedy for 24 consecutive weeks did not reach clinical relevance either. However, total reduction of symptoms after three periods in Group 1 (R/R/P) (−5.0, 95% CI −7.5 to −2.5) and Group 2 (P/R/R) (−5.9, 95% CI −8.7 to −3.1) reached clinical relevance whereas almost no decrease of symptoms after three periods was seen in Group 3 (R/P/R) (−0.5, 95% CI −2.9 to 1.9). Conclusions Treatment with the complex remedy for 12 or 24 weeks did not result in clinically significant improvement of menopausal symptoms.


In this paper, we propose document-centric query answering, a novel form of query answering for the Semantic Web. We discuss how we have built a knowledge base system to support the new queries. In particular, we describe the key techniques used in the system in order to address scalability issues. In addition, we show encouraging experimental results.


Humans and ecosystems face combined threats from exposures to numerous biological, chemical, physical, and psychosocial stressors in the environment. Cumulative risk assessment is a tool for organizing and analyzing information about combined adverse effects from collective exposure to multiple environmental stressors across all relevant sources, pathways, and routes. The process involves three interrelated phases: planning, scoping, and problem formulation; data analysis; and interpretation and risk characterization. Although in its infancy, cumulative risk assessment promises, over time, to provide decision makers with more realistic answers to pressing environmental questions.

Keywords:

combined risks;
cumulative risks;
environmental mixtures;
multiple stressors;
risk assessment


Aligned non-spherical dust particles polarize starlight passing through the dust cloud. They also emit polarized far infrared and sub-mm radiation. Substantial progress in understanding of grain alignment theory makes the interpretation of the polarized radiation in terms of underlying magnetic fields much more reliable. I discuss a number of fundamental processes that affect grain alignment. In particular, I shall discuss how subtle effects related to nuclear spins of the atoms alter the dynamics of dust grains. I shall discuss how the theory explains the existing observational data and demonstrate when the polarization can and cannot be interpreted in terms of the underlying magnetic fields.


"We've got a God who has something to say to us!" It is probably little surprise to any reader that those words come from Presiding Bishop Michael Bruce Curry.1 After fifteen years serving as bishop of the Diocese of North Carolina, in 2015 he was elected and installed as the twenty-seventh presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, the first African American to serve as chief pastor and primate of the denomination or, in his words, the CEO—chief evangelistic officer—of the Episcopal Branch of the Jesus Movement. He was quite clear from well before the election that he would bring a focus on evangelism and reconciliation, and quickly became well known throughout both the church and the global Anglican Communion of which the Episcopal Church is a constituent part.2 Thirty years ago, I wrote a booklet entitled The Kerygma of Billy Graham.3 Graham was, without dispute, the foremost preacher in the last half of twentieth-century American Christianity. While some scoffed at his fervor or criticized his politics, thousands of people at a time flocked to hear the evangelist from North Carolina in stadiums


Fatigue reliability problems are nowadays actively considered in the design of mechanical components. Recently, Dimension Reduction Method using Kriging approximation (K-DR) was proposed to efficiently calculate statistical moments of the response function. In the reliability problems, statistical information for the S-N parameters are necessary. The information, however, are not always available due to the limited experimental data. In this case, a family of curves with confidence bound, called P-S-N curve, is constructed from regression analysis. Using the K-DR method, once a set of responses are available at the sample points, all the reliability analyses for each P-S-N curve can be efficiently studied without additional response evaluations. Reliability-based design optimization (RBDO) is conducted based on the stochastic response surface, which enables conventional deterministic optimization for the response function constructed at a specified reliability. The method is applied to a knuckle design problem. Resulting information is of great practical value and will be very helpful for making trade-off decision during the fatigue design.


In this paper we consider an approximate controllability problem for linear parabolic equations with rapidly oscillating coefficients in a periodically perforated domain. The holes are ε-periodic and of size ε. We show that, as ε → 0, the approximate control and the corresponding solution converge respectively to the approximate control and to the solution of the homogenized problem. In the limit problem, the approximation of the final state is alterated by a constant which depends on the proportion of material in the perforated domain and is equal to 1 when there are no holes. We also prove that the solution of the approximate controllability problem in the perforated domain behaves, as ε → 0, as that of the problem posed in the perforated domain having as rigth-hand side the (fixed) control of the limit problem. Mathematics Subject Classification. 35K05, 49A50, 93C20. Received March 2, 1999. Revised January 7, July 10 and September 8, 2000.


Purpose: The evolution of digital technology has changed the way in which we, as a global society, socialise and conduct business. This growth has led to an increasing reliance on technology, much more interconnectedness and in turn, an expansion of criminal opportunities, known now as "cybercrime". This study aims to explore the experience of victimisation, perceptions of cybercrime and use of online crime prevention strategies.
Design/methodology/approach: The study involved a survey of a representative sample of the adult Australian population. The study sample was made up of 595 Australian adult participants. The study seeks to better understand how previous victimisation, perception of cybercrime prevalence and perception of harm caused by cybercrime are related to the use of online crime prevention strategies. It seeks to contribute to a body of work that has found that crime prevention education focused on increasing knowledge is limited in its effectiveness in reducing victimisation.
Findings: This study identifies key levers, in particular perceived prevalence and harm of cybercrime, as critical in the use of online crime prevention strategies by potential victims.
Research limitations/implications: As such, this study provides an important evidence base on which to develop more effective online crime prevention education and awareness campaigns to reduce cybervictimisation.
Practical implications: The practical implications include the relationship between cybervictimisation and self-protective online strategies of potential victims and the development of more effective online crime prevention programmes.
Originality/value: The research takes a different perspective from much of the previous research, seeking to better understand how attitudinal factors (perceived prevalence of cybercrime and perceived harm of cybercrime) might motivate or influence the use of online crime prevention strategies by potential victims.


This paper employs a legislative perspective to analyze the status quo of public and private rights related to digital copyrights in EC. The extension of public rights has been placed more importance than private rights reservation. It shows that public rights are essential, but private rights are more urgent to rescue. It is thus concluded that the desired legislation of copyrights is like this: private rights lead public rights, with assistance of IT and nonlegal institutional innovations


Grape rind from the wine industry still contains significant amounts of phenolic compounds. Specific characteristics of the applied solvents directly influence the extraction of phenolic compounds. The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of different solvents on phenolic compounds in Syrah grape husk extracts by high performance liquid chromatography. Grape peel extracts were prepared with 3 different solvents (water, 50% and 80% cereal alcohol), and evaluated using standard curve with 15 phenolic compounds. It was not possible to quantify the phenolic compounds, but the chromatograms suggest the presence of some of them. The solvent that provided the best interaction with grape peel was 50% cereal alcohol.


This report presents multiple-regression equations for estimating selected low-flow characteristics for most unregulated Ohio streams at sites where little or no discharge data are available. The equations relate combinations of drainage area, main-channel length, main-channel slope, average basin elevation, forested area, average annual precipitation, and an index of infiltration to low flows with durations of 7 and 30 days and average recurrence intervals of 2 and 10 years. Data from 132 long-term continuous-record gaging stations and partial-record sites in Ohio were used in the analyses. Multiple-regression analyses were first performed by using data from all 132 sites in an attempt to develop equations that would be applicable statewide. Standard errors for the statewide equations were too high (111 to 189 percent) for them to be of practical use in estimating low streamflows. Data for the state were then subdivided into five regions, and multiple-regression equations were developed for each region. Standard errors for four of the five regions improved, and ranged from 43 to 106 percent. Standard errors for region 5 remained high (74 to 129 percent). The multiple-regression equations presented in this report are not applicable to streams with significant low-flow regulation. The equations also are not applicable if (1) the site has been gaged and low-flow estimates have been developed from gagingstation records, (2) low flows can be estimated by the drainagearea transference method from data for a nearby gaged site, or (3 a sufficient number of partial-record measurements made at the site can be adequately correlated with concurrent base flows at a suitable index station. INTRODUCTION Information on the magnitude and frequency of low flows of streams is of critical importance to government planners and water managers in addressing such issues as the reliability of a surface-water supply or a stream's suitability as a destination for waste effluent. In Ohio, for example, the permissible rate of waste discharge into a stream generally is based on the 7-day, 10-year low flow (Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, 1978, p. 67). Johnson and Metzker (1981) reported low-flow characteristics for a total of 237 gaged sites on regulated and unregulated streams throughout Ohio. Johnson and Metzker also provided multiple-regression equations for estimating certain low-flow characteristics at ungaged sites on unregulated streams in the Great Miami River basin upstream from Dayton, Ohio. Unfortunately, there are many ungaged sites in Ohio outside the Great Miami River basin for which no reliable means of estimating low flows has been available. Researchers have reported various degrees of success in developing multiple-regression equations for estimation of low flows throughout a large area, such as a major river basin or a State (Thomas and Benson, 1970; Armbruster, 1976a; Flippo, 1982). Where successful, the resulting equations provide a useful tool for evaluating water-supply and water-quality problems related to low flows. In order to expand on the work of Johnson and Metzker, an investigation was conducted in cooperation with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to develop multiple-regression equations for estimating low-flow characteristics at sites on most unregulated streams in Ohio. The purpose of this report is to document the development of these equations and to explain their use. The equations, which are applicable to drainage basins ranging in" area from 1.35 to 1,250 square miles, are offered as a supplement to the more reliable site-specific low-flow data reported by Johnson and Metzker (1981). SELECTION OF DATA FOR ANALYSIS Low-Flow Data Johnson and Metzker (1981) report low-flow discharges for several combinations of duration and recurrence interval. This report considers four of these "j-day, k-year" discharges (Q. , ), 3 r K where j equals 7 or 30 days, and k equals 2 or 10 years. These combinations of duration and recurrence interval were chosen because of their frequent use by water planners and regulatory agencies. In general terms, the minimum mean discharge for j consecutive days that occurs within a given year will be equal to or less than Q. , an average of once in k years. D ' K Low-flow data for 132 of the 237 sites reported on by Johnson and Metzker were used in developing the multiple-regression equations (fig. 1, in pocket at back of report; table 1). Sites were excluded from the analyses for the following reasons: 62 sites because of some form of significant stream regulation; 31 sites because of insufficient soils information (primarily because soils information for drainage areas that extend into Michigan, Indiana, and Pennsylvania was not readily available or compatible with data reported for the corresponding soils in Ohio); 8 sites because their drainage areas were considered too large (greater than 1,250 square miles); and 4 sites because of questionable low-flow data. Ta bl e 1 . D e s c r i p t i o n s an d ba si n c h a r a c t e r i s t i c s of lo wfl ow si te s us ed in m u l t i p l e r e g r e s s i o n an al ys es


Mobile crowd sensing emerges as a new paradigm which takes advantage of the pervasive sensor-embedded smartphones to collect data efficiently. Many incentive mechanisms for mobile crowd sensing have been proposed. However, none of them takes into consideration the cooperative compatibility of users for multiple cooperative tasks. In this paper, we design truthful incentive mechanisms to minimize the social cost such that each of the cooperative tasks can be completed by a group of compatible users. We consider that the mobile crowd sensing is launched in an online community. We study two bid models and formulated the Social Optimization Compatible User Selection (SOCUS) problem for each model. We also define three compatibility models and use real-life relationships from social networks to model the compatibility relationships. We design two reverse auction based incentive mechanisms, MCT-M and MCT-S. Both of them consist of two steps: compatible user grouping and reverse auction. Through both rigorous theoretical analysis and extensive simulations, we demonstrate that the proposed mechanisms achieve computational efficiency, individual rationality and truthfulness. In addition, MCT-M can output the optimal solution.


A brief review is presented of the development of molecular electronic devices,the next-generation devices after silicon CMOS.We describe the basic principles,the elucidation of discrepancies between theoretical and experimental results,the underlying quantum mechanics phenomena,and recent theoretical and experimental advances in the area of molecular transistors.


A satellite in orbit is moving at a much higher velocity than most of the ambient molecules, so that it leaves a wake swept nearly free of gas. A concave shield with a large opening into this wake can thus contain a region of low pressure for experiments and provide a high speed pump for experiment outgassing. Potential experiments in this environment include the production of ultrapure materials and deposition of thin films. It is possible to set bounds on the flux density within a wake shield relative to the externally incident flux density on the shield opening. The upper bound of this ratio, for an aft‐facing shield, is simply 1.0, corresponding to a Maxwellian incident flux. The lower bound for a hemispherical shield is 0.5, when the incident flux is all concentrated on the edge around the opening. The lower bound for cylinders of various L/R ratios with the same edge concentration is also very near 0.5. The total flux on a hemisphere from an internal isotropic point source is 1.0 to 1.5 times the fl...


Twenty-two students have now been implicated in thl" hashish incident involving the Notre Uamc-Sailll Mary's foreign programs. Included in this group, which had originally wcalkd nineteen, arc four students from Saint Mary's and one from Holy Cross junior College, according to Notrl" Dame's Director of Information Services Richard Conklin. Twenty-one of these students arc from the lnnsbruck program, while the other one had been studying in Angl"rs, France. <:onklin relates the details of the investigation as follows: "When the dirc<.:tor of thl" lnnsbruck program wa~ informed of the hashish abuse and the possible threat of legal action, hi." confrontl."d thl" Innsbruck studl"nts and asked those involved to come forward." Evl"ntually, twenty-one of them admitted to bdng engaged in thl" widc:sprcad usc of hashish, and action was takl"n by their respective deans of students. "ThoM: I 5 students from Notre Dame allowed to remain in lnnsbruck have bt:cn sent a letter from Dean Roemer, notifying thc:m that the following actions will be taken," cxplaincd Conklin. "First, they arc now on conduct probation. Second, th<.·y will bc dismissed from the: University. dfcctive at the end of the spring tl."rm. Third, they will be given thl" opportunity to reapply for the fall semcstcr of 19H2." In the r<.·admission application, Conklin added, an essay will be fl."· quired, explaining what the students havc learncd from their experit:ncl" in lnnsbruck. lkcisions will he madt: on an individual basis concerning reacceptance. Conklin also commented on the two students who, two weeks ago, were flown back to the U.S. One student from lnnsbruck was dismissed due to a record of prior drug abuse. The other from Angers was "believed to have soml" <.·onncction with the <!rug abuse in lnnsbruck," according to Conklin, who gave no further comment on the issue. Conklin expressed concc:rn about the widcsprl"ad media coverage of the ha~hish incident. "It's not that the University is afraid it will look bad many worse scandals have hit the media and we've weathered them," hl" stated. "WI." are more concerned with the welfare of those students involved." "There is no fifth amendment in Austria," he expiaincd further. "If any news of this reaches the Austrian authorities, and they decide to question thl."sc students about their drug abuse, the students must admit to it. This could result in a criminal investigation and charges against the students." "We hope that this will not happen," Conklin continued. "In the evl"nt that it docs, we arc fairly confident that the Austrian authorities feel we have handled the situation sufficiently and will leave things be. Howl."vcr, there is no way we can be sure." In light of this, the University has bl."l."n very cautious with their press rclca~cs, which will now be handled exclusively through Notre Dame Information Services. Absolutely no names will be rdcascd now, or in the fiJturl". Saint Mary's Dean of Student Affairs Kathleen Rice ddayed comment on thl" mattl"r until a later date. Regina Mushabec, an outstanding cellist, and her accompanist, George Cheny, perfonned in Armenberg Auditorium as part of the University Artists Series. (photo by Beth Prezio)


(For part I, see Anglia 117 [1999]: 163-200). The second part of the article is concerned with Elizabeth Elstob's scholarly methods and achievements. Here I shall first survey her editions of Old English texts: the copiously annotated and lavishly produced edition of jElfric's homily on St Gregory, the apostle of the English, and her unfinished edition of the complete two series of jtlfric's Catholic Homilies, which survives in manuscripts in the British Library. This will be followed by brief assessments of Elizabeth Elstob's Rudiments of Grammar, the first grammar of Old English ever to be written in English, and of her shrewd and impassioned apology for AngloSaxon studies, which serves äs a lengthy preface to the Rudiments, and whose political topicality so far seems to have escaped scholarly attention. ELIZABETH ELSTOB: THE SCHOLAR We may now turn to Elizabeth Elstob's contribution to AngloSaxon scholarship. Where did she conceive her own place to be in the world of learning we have surveyed in the preceding section? And how much (if any) of her work and her concept of AngloSaxon studies has stood the test of time? No comprehensive assessment of Elizabeth Elstob's scholarship can be given here. In what follows I shall consider briefly her editorial techniques, her translations and annotations in the texts she edited; I shall also point up the implications of the sources she drew on for her Rudiments of Grammar-, and I shall attempt to uncover the rationale behind her impassioned Preface to this work. I hope that even from such preliminary considerations some clearer picture of Elizabeth Eistob the scholar may be formed than has hitherto been


Estimation of blasting behavior of explosives is prerequisite in the numerical analysis of blasting works. In this study, physical and simplified chemical models are considered to formulate the one-dimensional behavior of blasting gas. Conservation of mass, momentum, and energy, and equation of state of ideal gas are used in the physical modelling. The first order reaction rate and the initiation of thermal explosion are applied in the chemical modelling. The complex reaction processes of the blasting gas are simplified as a single step. Lax-Wendroff Flux-Corrected Transport Algorithm is used for solving the governing equations. To verify the developed code, the Sod's shock tube and the strong shock interaction problem are considered. Numerical results show that the shock wave can be captured by means of the FCT algorithm in the nonreacting states. In order to estimate the behavior of the chemical reacting state, initiation process and propagation behavior of the blasting wave of the explosive TNT are investigated. The results (Chapman-Jouguet values) of blasting velocity and pressure in steady state blasting flow are compared with the experimental and theoritical results provided by R.D. Cowan.


The association pseudarthrosis of the clavicle and the thoracic outlet syndrome is rare. The author describe a case in a 64 years old man, found before embolic complications. Shoulder X-ray and artériography démonstrate the lesion. The etiopathogenic hypothesis are called up. In case of complication, the surgical treatment is made of osteo synthesis or partial or total resection of the clavicle, associated to a vascular repair in case of need. At long term the result is excellent.


N-alkylisonitrile, a precursor to isonitrile-containing lipopeptides, is biosynthesized via decarboxylation-assisted -N≡C group (isonitrile) formation by using N-alkylglycine as the substrate. This reaction is catalyzed by iron(II) and 2-oxoglutarate (Fe/2OG) dependent enzymes. Distinct from typical oxygenation or halogenation reactions catalyzed by this class of enzymes, installation of the isonitrile group represents a novel reaction type for Fe/2OG enzymes that involves a four-electron oxidative process. Here we report the plausible mechanism of three Fe/2OG enzymes, Sav607, ScoE and SfaA, catalyzed isonitrile formation. The X-ray structures of iron loaded ScoE in complex with its substrate and the intermediate, along with biochemical and biophysical data reveal that -N≡C bond formation involves two cycles of Fe/2OG enzyme catalysis. The reaction starts with an Fe(IV)-oxo catalyzed hydroxylation. It is likely followed by decarboxylation-assisted desaturation to complete isonitrile installation.


Incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI) accounts for two‐thirds of all SCIs in clinical practice. Preclinical research on the effect of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) on bladder function, however, has been focused only on animal models of complete SCI. We aimed to evaluate the effect of early SNM on bladder responses in a rat model of incomplete SCI.


Symmetry region searching can extract face region without a prior information in an image by using symmetric. However, this method requires a plenty of the computation time because the mask size to process symmetry region searching must be larger than the size of object such as eye, nose and mouth in face. in this paper, it proposed symmetric by using symmetry region searching and Wavelet Transform to reduce computation time of symmetry region searching, and It was applied to this method in an original image. To extract exact face region, we also experimented face region searching by using domain division in extraction region.


This paper considers the transmission problem for the system of piezoelectricity having piecewise constant coefficients. Under suitable geometric conditions imposed on the domain and the interfaces where the coefficients have a jump discontinuity, results on boundary observation and exact controllability are established. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


At present there is a huge disadvantaged group marginalized in our society.They are in a state of spiritual impoverishment and material poverty,becoming a negative factor in society,even a potential social hazard,which has a far-reaching and significant impact on the construction of political civilization in China.Therefore,our Party and government must attach great importance to protecting the rights of vulnerable groups to promote our country's political development and the construction of political civilization.


AbstrcatA novel method to implement a rule engine is proposed here. The method, which can organize the different rules in XML format, makes it easy to embed Java code,which is not concrete implementation but interface description, in the describing rule file. An improved Rete network is presented based on the Rete algorithm and Rete-OO algorithm, whose inferring process has been optimized. In addition, this rule engine supports or-pattern and and-pattern and negates rule in order to organize rules in any legal way.


This intriguingly titled article takes a fresh look at nosocomial anaemia, specifically in the context of cardiac surgery, although the findings may be more generally applicable. A retrospective review of laboratory test records revealed a median cumulative blood draw of 454mL per hospital admission, two-thirds of which was in the cardiac intensive care unit – blood discarded to clear lines may have contributed here. One patient had over 16L of blood taken for testing. There was a clear correlation between volume of blood drawn and risk of developing anaemia requiring transfusion. The authors also mention a higher mortality rate, but it is not clear whether increased testing was the cause or consequence of sicker patients. Three main suggestions are made for how to reduce cumulative blood draw: (1) careful consideration of rationale for each test – for example, greater use of oximetry and capnography to guide ventilator weans; (2) avoiding discarding of blood to clear lines, for example, by using closed loop devices which return blood to the patient; and (3) transition to smaller sample containers. In summary, this is a timely reminder that both clinicians and laboratories should consider if changes can be made to refine testing practices.


Context. In the scope of space weather forecasting, it is crucial to be able to more reliably predict the arrival time, speed, and magnetic field configuration of coronal mass ejections (CMEs). From the time a CME is launched, the dominant factor influencing all of the above is the interaction of the interplanetary CME (ICME) with the ambient plasma and interplanetary magnetic field. Aims. Due to a generally anisotropic heliosphere, differently oriented ICMEs may interact differently with the ambient plasma and interplanetary magnetic field, even when the initial eruption conditions are similar. For this, we examined the possible link between the orientation of an ICME and its propagation in the heliosphere (up to 1 AU). Methods. We investigated 31 CME-ICME associations in the period from 1997 to 2018. The CME orientation in the near-Sun environment was determined using an ellipse-fitting technique applied to single-spacecraft data from SOHO/LASCO C2 and C3 coronagraphs. In the near-Earth environment, we obtained the orientation of the corresponding ICME using in situ plasma and magnetic field data. The shock orientation and nonradial flows in the sheath region for differently oriented ICMEs were investigated. In addition, we calculated the ICME transit time to Earth and drag parameter to probe the overall drag force for differently oriented ICMEs. The drag parameter was calculated using the reverse modeling procedure with the drag-based model. Results. We found a significant difference in nonradial flows for differently oriented ICMEs, whereas a significant difference in drag for differently oriented ICMEs was not found.


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Previous study reported that the activation of Ras pathway cooperated with E6/E7‐mediated inactivation of p53/pRb to transform immortalized normal human astrocytes (NHA/hTERT) into intracranial tumors strongly resembling human astrocytomas. The mechanism of how H‐Ras contributes to astrocytoma formation is unclear. Using genetically modified NHA cells (E6/E7/hTERT and E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells) as models, we investigated the mechanism of Ras‐induced tumorigenesis. The overexpression of constitutively active H‐RasV12 in E6/E7/hTERT cells robustly increased the levels of urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) mRNA, protein, activity and invasive capacity of the E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells. However, the expressions of MMP‐9 and MMP‐2 did not significantly change in the E6/E7/hTERT and E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells. Furthermore, E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells also displayed higher level of uPA activity and were more invasive than E6/E7/hTERT cells in 3D culture, and formed an intracranial tumor mass in a NOD‐SCID mouse model. uPA specific inhibitor (B428) and uPA neutralizing antibody decreased uPA activity and invasion in E6/E7/hTERT/Ras cells. uPA‐deficient U‐1242 glioblastoma cells were less invasive in vitro and exhibited reduced tumor growth and infiltration into normal brain in xenograft mouse model. Inhibitors of Ras (FTA), Raf (Bay 54‐9085) and MEK (UO126), but not of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) (LY294002) and of protein kinase C (BIM) pathways, inhibited uPA activity and cell invasion. Our results suggest that H‐Ras increased uPA expression and activity via the Ras/Raf/MEK signaling pathway leading to enhanced cell invasion and this may contribute to increased invasive growth properties of astrocytomas. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.


a congruence of class and colour as indices of status, a congruence established during the colonial phase of South African history and eroded since the beginning of the country's industrial revolution.1 To arrest this erosion 'Whites' have made massive use of statutory devices to inhibit social mobility among 'non-Whites' and to forestall the emergence of cross-'racial' ties based on common social class membership. The 1950s saw the passing of the heaviest spate of discriminatory legislation, yet in the course of more than a year's field work at the end of the decade (by means of observer participation) in a mixed 'White' and 'Coloured' suburb of Cape Town (here called pseudonymously 'Undersuburb') it was found that socioeconomic status was a more reliable index of association than 'racial' status: what counted in Undersuburb was less often a person's status as a 'White' or as a 'Coloured' (that is, Eurafrican) than his rating in terms of the socio-economic categories of 'respectable' and 'rough'. This observation is surprising not only in view of the South African government's vigorous efforts to segregate the so-called 'races' but also in view of the number of writers who have


Aim: To investigate the prognostic role of Tc-99m pertechnetate thyroid scintigraphy pretreatment in patients with toxic multinodular goiters (TMNG) who were then treated with fi xed I-131 doses. Materials and methods: We retrospectively evaluated 28 patients (18 females and 10 males; mean ± SD = 63 ± 11 years) that were treated with 740 megabecquerels (MBq) of I-131 for TMNG. Information, including age, Tc-99m pertechnetate thyroid scintigraphy and ultrasonography fi ndings, antithyroid medication, thyroid hormone profi le, and clinical status before treatment, was recorded. Th e regions of interest were drawn over the hot nodules, salivary glands, and the background on the anterior thyroid images. Th e net nodule counts, net salivary counts, nodule-to-salivary ratios, and nodule-to-background ratios were then calculated. Th e data were statistically compared for the hypothyroid and euthyroid patient groups aft er radioiodine treatment. Results: In the study group, the mean follow-up period was 7 ± 2 months (range: 6-12 months). We detected hyperthyroidism in 1 patient, euthyroidism in 19 patients, and hypothyroidism in 8 patients. Th e pretreatment mean net nodule counts (34.79 ± 14.06 counts) in the patients that developed hypothyroidism were signifi cantly higher than in those patients that developed euthyroidism (26.80 ± 11.04 counts) (P = 0.014). Th e other 3 parameters did not show signifi cant diff erences between the 2 groups. Conclusion: Th e Tc-99m pertechnetate uptake level of hot nodules calculated from the pretreatment of thyroid scintigraphy in patients with TMNG treated with a fi xed 740-MBq I-131 dose may predict early hypothyroidism in patients.


Abstract Introduction/Background: Anaplastic thyroid cancer is a rare thyroid malignancy with a bad prognosis. There are few systemic markers, as thyroglobulin is not usually synthesized in these poorly differentiated malignancies. Clinical Case - Diagnostic Evaluation, Treatment, and Follow Up: A 70-year old man presented in 2016 with a right thyroid nodule, slowly growing since 2012. The nodule was 10cm on neck CT and ultrasound showed a hyperechoic mass with central hypoechoic area, and coarse calcifications. Fine needle biopsy showed a follicular neoplasm. By 2019, neck CT showed enlargement of the nodule to 13 cm. Repeat thyroid biopsy was benign. Lobectomy was recommended due to size but not performed. In 2020, he developed neck discomfort and painful thigh swelling. WBC was significantly elevated at 27,000 (4000-10000) /mm3. Ultrasound showed no evidence of necrosis or abscess in the nodule. WBC rose progressively to 96,000/mm3 (ANC 94,200). CT chest showed further enlargement of the thyroid mass, a soft tissue shoulder mass and lung nodules suspicious for metastases. Laryngoscopy revealed a distorted larynx from external compression, and possible vocal-fold involvement (motion impairment) without airway compromise. Biopsy of the shoulder mass, lung nodule, and thigh masses all showed metastatic anaplastic thyroid cancer. Full infectious disease evaluation and molecular testing for BCR-ABL and JAK2 mutations were negative. Thus, leukocytosis was determined to be reactive in the setting of malignancy. Serum calcium of 14.7 mg/dL (8.5 - 10.6mg/dL) prompted hospital admission. Bone metastases were not visible on imaging. Hypercalcemia was treated effectively (to 8.3mg/dL) with IV fluids, calcitonin and IV bisphosphonates. Workup revealed suppression of PTH to 4 pg/mL (15-65 pg/mL) and low 25 Vitamin D of 21 ng/mL (30-80ng/L). Subsequently PTHrP was elevated at 53.4 pmol/L (<2.3pmol/L) and 1,25 Vitamin D inappropriately normal at 48.9 pg/mL (20- 79.3pg/mL), suggested humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy. The patient declined further treatment beyond hospice care. Clinical Lesson/Conclusion: Significant, sudden leukocytosis and hypercalcemia prompted further evaluation of his long-standing apparently benign thyroid nodule leading to a diagnosis of anaplastic thyroid cancer. Presumably this mass had been a follicular thyroid cancer, misdiagnosed on cytology, that subsequently de-differentiated. There are uncommon reports of leukocytosis complicating anaplastic thyroid cancer, where elevated GCSF and IL-6 were noted. We suspect this same etiology here. Hypercalcemia is extremely rare other than one report of PTHrP-secreting anaplastic thyroid cancer. Thus, high, rising calcium and PTHrP levels may reflect level of disease activity in anaplastic thyroid cancer.


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 This paper examines the possibility of using the Earth's crust as a heat sink to remove heat from the Earth's surface. The paper determines that it is possible to sink energy into the Earth at a rate which is bigger than the rate it will conduct back to the surface. If we wanted to store 1% of the energy the surface of Earth receives it could be done for about 5,500 years.


Double clutch device for a transmission, in particular spur gear of a driven by an internal combustion engine motor vehicle, comprising a first clutch with a first drive shaft and a second clutch with a second drive shaft, wherein a first pressure plate of the first clutch through the intermediary of friction plates, a first driving plate and an intermediate pressure plate effected, and a second pressure plate of the second clutch through the intermediary of friction discs, a second drive plate and the said intermediate pressure plate friction and further wherein the first and the second pressure plate can be actuated with the interposition of a first cup spring, characterized in that the first pressure plate (9) the first clutch (5) having first outer axial webs (20), the second pressure plate (14) having second outer axial webs (21) and the intermediate pressure plate (13) with the third outer axial webs (22) i st, said first, second and third webs (20, 21 and 22) has a pot-shaped, the first clutch (5) and the second clutch (7) surrounding the rotationally symmetrical housing structure (19) and ...


We report the anisotropy of the proton momentum distribution in potassium hydrogen carbonate, KHCO3. Using the deep inelastic neutron scattering technique, the mean proton momenta along, and across, the O–H–O bond have been determined. While the momentum across the bond corresponds to a proton in a harmonic potential, that along the bond shows this potential is consistent with a previously proposed double well shape.


In recent years, underwater robots that propel and maneuver themselves like real fish, often called robotic fish, have emerged as promising mobile sensing platforms for freshwater and marine environments. For these active monitoring applications, efficient exploration along with economical locomotion is highly important, in order to optimize sensing coverage and guarantee long field operation time. As a result, optimization of the sensing trajectory and energy-saving tracking of the planned trajectory are of interest. In this paper we adopt an ergodic exploration method to calculate an optimal sensing trajectory for a tail-actuated robotic fish, and propose a nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) approach for tracking the generated trajectory. A high-fidelity, averaged nonlinear dynamic model is used for trajectory planning and control. In particular, the bias and amplitude of the tail-beat pattern are treated as the control inputs, and their physical bounds and the constraints on their changing rates are properly accounted for in the optimization process. Finally, simulation results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.


To the Editor.— Richard A. Willson, MD, reported a case of "Intercurrent Hepatitis A in B Viral Hepatitis" (1981;245:2495). The diagnosis of acute hepatitis A was made on the basis of first-generation type testing to distinguish between anti-HA-IgM and anti-HA-IgG. The "differential absorption" technique using staphylococcal cells has been reported to be unreliable when compared with the more recently developed direct radioimmunoassay for anti-HA-IgM. Dr Willson's report did not indicate results of anti-HA testing when the patient's condition was initially evaluated but only the results of testing during the second episode of illness. Thus, the possibility exists that this patient had either a relapse of chronic hepatitis B or a new infection with another virus or even some other type of nonviral hepatitis.


This work presents a Human Visual System (HVS)based blur/sharpness perception model that can be incorporated into no-reference objective blurriness/sharpness metrics. This work is motivated by the fact that existing no-reference metrics fail in predicting the correct amount of blurriness in images with different contexts. Subjective testing is performed for a better understanding of blur perception and an HVSbased blur/sharpness perception model is derived based on the obtained results; this model can be embedded within an objective no-reference blurriness/sharpness metric to increase the correlation between metric output and perceived blurriness.


Although only twenty-eight Babylonian horoscope texts are extant, and these few span a long period from Achaemenid to Arsacid times (late fifth century BC to the mid-first century BC), their form and content suggest a well-defined class of astronomical/astrological texts whose purpose it was to record a specific set of astronomical data relevant to the date of the birth of an individual. Although omens based on the date of a birth are known from the series Iqqur ipu1, celestial omens of Enama Anu Enlil predicted mundane events only for the king and the country. The horoscopes therefore represent the first application of celestial prognostication to the individual, and clearly bear close relation to nativity omens, also attested for the first time in late Babylonia.2 The appearance of horoscopes in Achaemenid Babylonia with their various innovative elements, primary among which are the introduction of the zodiac and the consideration of the situation of the heavens as a whole for predicting the life of an individual, signals as yet imperfectly understood changes in late Babylonian intellectual culture concerned with celestial inquiry, as well as with the relation of the individual to the cosmos. Because the number of extant exemplars of Babylonian horoscopes is small, each newly identified text has much to offer for our general understanding of the genre and of the nature of astrology in late Babylonia. During the 1960s, A. Sachs identified most of the extant horoscope texts in the British Museum, but these remained unpublished.3 The recent discovery of another horoscope in the Yale Babylonian Collection is of great interest both for a number of special features not attested in most other horoscopes and for its consistency with the genre as a whole. The new horoscope was identified in 1989 while cataloguing the Newell Collection of Babylonian tablets housed at Yale University.4 The tablet bears the museum number NCBT 1231 and is dated to the Seleucid period. The place of origin is in all probability Uruk since the name of the individual for whom the horoscope was drafted, Anubel"unu, is characteristic of, if not exclusive to, the onomastics of that city. Additional internal criteria, derived from the content of the text and its presentation, argue convincingly for Uruk as provenance,5 making this document the sixth horoscope known from Uruk. All other examples of


Case Report: A 70-year-old, hypertensive woman presented to the emergency department with palpitation. Electrocardiography (ECG) (Nihon Kohden ECG 1500-K, Tokyo, Japan) showed atrial fibrillation with a high ventricular response. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) (Vivid 3 3S 1.5-3.6 Mhz, GE Healthcare, Milwaukee, WI, USA) revealed a discrete calcified mass with smooth borders in the posterior periannular region of the mitral valve and posterior myocardial wall (Fig. 1, movie clips S1–S3). There was moderate mitral and tricuspid regurgitation without stenosis (movie clip S4). A cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (Siemens Avanto 1.5 Tesla, Erlangen, Germany) was performed and


Objective To observe the effects of resistant starch (RS) on insulin resistance (IR) in type 2 diabetes mellitus rats. Method Male Wistar rats (n=40) were used.Ten were fed with normal diets (normal control group) and the others with high fat (safflower oil, 59% of total energy) diet (model group) . Ten weeks laters, the model group was injected with streptozotocin (20mg/kg bw) and divided into 3 groups: diabetes control group, high fat and RS intervention group, RS intervention group. After 5 w, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was carried out in each group and the metabolism of glucose and lipid, insulin sensitivity, pathological changes of liver and kidney were observed. Results Compared with diabetes control group, insulin sensitivity index (ISI) was higher and area under curve (AUC), fasting insulin (FINS), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were significantly lower in RS intervention groups. Besides, the fatty degeneration of liver was much lighter but glycogen synthesis was significantly increased. Conclusion RS is effective in improving IR of type 2 diabetes mellitus rats.


Recently, for more demands of the economical benefits and environmental conservation, many engineers prefer to choose remodeling. Artificial openings are often unavoidable to make house wider, which will degrade wall strength and stiffness by losing effective wall section that may cause the weakening of system capacity. In these cases the damaged shear walls need to be retrofitted by additional materials or members. In this research, four specimens were tested to investigate the capacity of the damaged wall and the retrofitted wall. The artificially damaged wall was prestressed by tendons to improve the shear capacity of the wall, and the other walls were retrofitted by adding steel plate at the surface for the same purpose. Consequently, these retrofitted walls had improved capacity and stiffness in both shear and flexure. Especially, the wall with steel plate showed ductile behavior after ultimate load and the prestressed wall had greater stiffness than the unstrengthened prototype wall.


The volume of research on the causes and consequences of war has grown significantly over the last two decades. Since its origins, it has been criticized for the lack of theoretical guidance and its failure to produce integrative cumulativeness. The assessment provided here is contrary to the very bleak picture generally drawn and argues that there has been some progress. Furthermore, it is suggested that the kind of closure some critics hold up as an ideal is misleading and inappropriate. Enhancement of the quality of this sort of research in the future is argued to depend upon (1) the continued development of contending theoretical formulations wherein war is seen as part of the broader range of international relations, (2) close attention to the various aspects of the war process, and (3) efforts to solidify organizational elements of the field.


Design and implement of a strategy to improve employee's attitude, emotions and performance is an important task of managers. Because of the lack of enough latitude and diversity in certain jobs, it causes mental fatigue, stress, dissatisfaction, low level of organizational commitment, emotional harms; lose self-confidence and ultimately reduction in job performance. This study is designed to identify the root causes of the above and to suggest participative decision making as a resolving strategy to cope with resulting problems. Thus, we developed and tested a conceptual model of relationships among key variables of the participative decision making, employee' attitude, employee's emotions and job performance. To collect research data, a designed questionnaire was employed and distributed among 151 employees in 15 branches of Rasht Maskan bank. The questionnaire's validity was confirmed by content validity and factor analysis and reliability was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha (88.7%) using SPSS software. The structural equation model and research hypotheses were tested using AMOS software. The result showed a satisfactory overall fit of the model. Out of 5 hypotheses tested, only one was rejected, that is a good indication of sufficient validity of the model. Findings indicate that participation in decision making improves the job performance by mediating role of emotions and employee's attitude.


The zero-shear-rate intrinsic viscosity of a polymer in an athermal and THETA solvent in free space and confined in a slit is investigated by Monte Carlo simulations of self-avoiding random walks on a simple cubic lattice. The intrinsic viscosity in a Newtonian shear flow is calculated by Zimm's algorithm. The results for an unbounded system are in excellent agreement with several scaling predictions. The intrinsic viscosity is below its unbounded value when the coil is squeezed. The effect of hydrodynamic interactions between walls and chain segments on the intrinsic viscosity is negligible. The differences between THETA and athermal solvent conditions gradually diminish with a decrease in the width of the slit as witnessed by the intrinsic viscosity and the scaling exponent for the radius of gyration. This is due to the fact that the solvent quality improves for a decreasing slit width; i.e., a THETA-solvent in three dimensions becomes a good solvent in two dimensions. The increase in excluded volume implies that there is a distinct difference between THETA-chains (i.e., chains that behave as random walks in free space) and real random walks. In the latter case the value of the component of the radius of gyration parallel to the walls is independent of the slit width. For real THETA-chains it increases.


This paper presents an efficient method for solving the linear‐mixed Volterra‐Fredholm equations using multiscale transformation. For this purpose, by changing the variables, the Fredholm‐Volterra equation is discretized using wavelet Galerkin method. This equation reduces to a set of linear algebraic equations by using the wavelet transform matrix and the operational matrix of integration. To reach the sparse coefficients matrix for having a reduction in the computational cost, thresholding is used. This sparse system solves by generalized minimal residual (GMRES) method. If the appropriate threshold selects, the number of nonzero coefficients reduces while the error will not be less than a certain amount. The convergence analysis has been investigated. The validity and applicability of the technique are illustrated by a series of numerical tests.


Material Handling Systems (MHS) require considerable capital investment. Their efficiency is therefore of vital importance. This implies that their design and operation has to be planned thoroughly. Even though there is a number of planning tools available which provide support for the different planning phases, these tools rarely operate on common data structures and usually require considerable skill for their handling. Thus, as the complexity of MHSs increase, there is a growing demand for an integrated tool kit to support the planning engineer in selecting and evaluating different MHS design alternatives [Grotrian87]. The overall objective of our project was therefore to develop a decision support system that would provide guidance for the engineer throughout the entire MHS planning cycle. In designing this system, special emphasis was put on achieving the following subtasks:


Abstract For almost a century, Canadian drug policy has been dominated by a paradigm of prohibition, driven by the practical and institutional interests of drug law enforcement. In the 1980s, a 'policy window' for reform opened on the federal government level via the opportunity to establish a new drug control law and to launch a major public health‐oriented drug policy initiative. A detailed analysis of these developments concludes that, despite the rhetoric of reform, these efforts reinforced and expanded rather than reformed prohibition control policy in Canada. Possible social, political and economic determinants for the persistent resistance against drug law and policy reform in the Canadian context are examined, suggesting that the course of Canadian drug policy may be as much the result of external—particularly American—pressures as it is shaped by domestic convictions. On this basis, a call is made for a more systematic and theoretically grounded comparative analysis of international drug policy s...


Due to the rapid evolution of graphics hardware, interactive Virtual Environment is becoming popular on desktop personal computers. The use of the Virtual Environment as a simulation system becomes very important for certain types of applications, especially in the fields of education and entertainment. These synthetic environments are even more attractive for the user when they exhibit dynamic characteristics. The most important problem of using the synthetic Environment is navigation process. The ability to navigate and interact in a Virtual Environment is essential for certain types of applications, such as virtual classrooms, on-line museums and games. Many 3D virtual environments, whether representing existing places or imaginary ones typically leave the user alone and partially or totally unassisted in navigating the environment Navigation process deals with the problem of finding path/trajectory between two locations under some constraints. In this paper, a model of multiagents is developed to enhance the navigation process and interaction with the users of the synthetic Virtual Environment It describes how agents can work together to solve their task. Usually, this requires some kind of inter-agent communication.


GROENEWOLD N., HAGGER A. J. and MADDEN J. R. (1987) The measurement of industry employment contribution in an input-output model, Reg. Studies 21, 255–263. This paper addresses the question of measuring the contribution which a particular industry makes to regional employment within the framework of a closed input-output model. Four alternative methods are proposed each corresponding to a different way of posing the question. Two of the measures are related to the measurement of 'Hirschmanian linkages' found in the economic development literature. GROENEWOLD N., HAGGER A. J. et MADDEN J. R. (1987) La mesure de la contribution a l'emploi industriel dans un modele d'entrees-sorties, Reg. Studies 21, 255–263. Cet article traite la question de la mesure de la contribution qu'une industrie particuliere apporte a l'emploi regional dans le contexte d'un modele ferme d'entrees-sorties. Quatre methodes alternatives sont proposees, chacune correspondant a une facon differente de poser la question. Deux des mesures ...


Machine learning algorithms, such as ConvTasNet and Demucs, can separate between two interfering signals like music and speech, without any prior information about the mixing operation. The Conv-TasNet algorithm is a fully convolutional time-domain audio separation network while Demucs algorithm is a new waveform-to-waveform model. The Demucs algorithm employs a technique similar to the audio generation model and has larger decoder capacity. The criteria for comparison of these algorithms include high-quality signal separation (no artefacts) and less delay in the execution time. This research examined both algorithms in four experiments: music and male, music and female, music and conversation and music and child. The results were evaluated based on mir_eval and R square, root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute Error (MAE) scores. Conv-TasNet had the highest SDR score for music in the music and female experiment, with a high SDR score for child experiment. The SDR value of music in the music and female experiment was high using the Demucs algorithm (7.8), while the child experiment had the highest SDR value (8.15). In terms of average execution time, Conv-TasNet was seven times faster than Demucs. RMSE and MAE were also used for measuring accuracy. RMSE indicates absolute values, and MAE computes the average magnitude of errors between observations and prediction data. Both algorithms showed excellent results and high accuracy in the separation process.


The text deals with the issue of a confl icting relationship between state and municipal budgets in the Slovak Republic. It also focuses on the fi eld of possibilities of local self-government fi nancing in the context of current global economic crisis. Cities and towns must adopt rational measures and they are looking for reserves especially in effective economic management and that in income as well as in expenditure of their budget. Their properties should be sold and rented in a more transparent, economic and effi cient way and they should also increase the effi ciency of claim collecting.


Oil degrading bacteria were isolated and bacterial community C9 with oil degrading ability was constructed.KNO3,K2HPO4,pH 7~10 and 150~200 r/min were determined as the best N source,P source,initial pH values,and rotating speed respectively by sole factor experiment for C9.The orthogonal experiment results showed that the most suitable proportion of strains SL51∶SL-84∶SL-133∶SL-163 was 1∶1∶20∶1,and optimum oil degradation condition was KNO3 3 g·L-1,K2HPO4 1 g·L-1,and pH 8 respectively,at the same time initial inoculation volume was 6.9%,oil concentrate was 0.25%.Gas chromatography analysis proved that C9 could degrade saturated hydrocarbon and aromatic hydrocarbon more effectively in the optimum conditions.


This paper describes a personalised rehabilitation application using a smart phone (PDA) and wireless (bio) sensors. It instructs and motivates patients to follow their exercise programme and keeps track of their progress. It also monitors the relevant biosignals and provides immediate feedback to the patient.
 Sensors transmit data to the mobile phone where it is analysed locally and the data can also be instantaneously transmitted to a healthcare centre for remote monitoring by a health professional.
 The rehabilitation application is personalised for each cardiac patient and provides tailored advice (e.g. exercise more, slow down). A trial with a rehabilitation centre is in progress in which we investigate whether the personalised rehabilitation application improves the success of the rehabilitation programme in terms of patient compliance with recommended life style changes (such as increase physical activity or lose weight) and whether use of the system brings peace of mind to cardiac patients.


The Russian regional information resources restructing into native cloud platforms is suggested. It is shown that such approach improves information resources use, precludes information duplication in public authorities system. The dependence of services obtainment on officials' schedule and employment place, their subjectivism is reduced for population.


Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is an uncommon complication of acute pulmonary emboli necessitating lifelong anticoagulation. Despite this, few data exist on the safety and efficacy of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in CTEPH and none for direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs).


In order to enhance the ability of the robot operating system to execute multiple tasks in parallel and fully exploit the parallel performance of multi-core processors, a method to optimize the multitask scheduling strategy on multiple cores is proposed, namely, the elimination-based fireworks algorithm based on multidimensional Manhattan distance. An edge sparkle is introduced in EFWAMMD to enable each iteration of the fireworks algorithm to select the fireworks at the most edge position in the feasible domain in order to improve the optimal value search domain range, and an adaptation value calculation method based on the multidimensional Manhattan distance is proposed as the multicore task scheduling adaptation value to narrow the search range of the fireworks algorithm and use the elimination roulette rule to achieve efficient task scheduling and optimise the problem of high complexity and long running time of traditional fireworks algorithms. Comparison experiments with GA and FWA algorithms show that EFWAMMD has a significant improvement in the efficiency of task scheduling and can improve the task processing throughput of multicore processors


This paper studies Erich Fromm's critical theory of religion and looks into the evolution of the philosopher's views. We analyze key concepts of Fromm's humanistic psychology, including biophilia, rejection of idolatry, X-experience, classification of religions as humanistic or authoritarian, plea for sustainable coexistence with the environment, and some others. The author demonstrates close connection of these concepts with Judaic tradition, especially the messianism and negative theology of Maimonides. The paper is divided into chapters tracing the evolution of Fromm's views on religion — from Hasidic Judaism, through following Freud and Marx, to the concept of humanistic religion. The analysis shows that starting from his early works and up to the radical, socialistic humanism as the pinnacle of his thought, Fromm as a philosopher and a strong Israelite draws inspiration from the religious tradition. Notably, his PhD thesis was devoted to the sociology of Hebrew diaspora, Der Sabbath, The Dogma of Christ. However, Fromm's theory of religion, accordant with the Frankfurt School, combines aspects of Hegel, Marx and Freud's teachings. Fromm's views on religion are an original, self-consistent synthesis of diverse ideas, and result in the concept of radical humanism. The paper specifically considers Fromm's view on idolatry as a form of alienation. Fromm urges to fight against idolatry in a bro.ader sense, finding it in various social phenomena, ranging from consumerism to religious fundamentalism. The paper also reviews the concept of X-experience that Fromm gives in You Shall Be as Gods. The X-experience is a special transcendental experience, separated from its multiple theistic or non-theistic conceptualizations. X-experience is psychological in its nature and leads to diminishing or eliminating narcissism. It constitutes a certain opposition to the alienation caused by idolatry. The work also considers Fromm's idea of humanistic religion as related to his other concepts. The author supposes that the distinction between authoritarian and humanistic religions is tied to the earlier separation into authoritarian and humanistic ethics that Fromm presents in Man for himself. The impact of Marx and Freud on Fromm's philosophy of religion is highlighted. While drawing from both, Fromm considered Marx's theory to be deeper and more significant.


New electroactive polymers based on copper(ll) containing units have been prepared by electrooxida tion of mononuclear copper(ll) complexes and found to exhibit the electrochemical features of the Cu(II)/Cu(lll) system included.


Malicious modification of integrated circuits (ICs) in untrusted foundry, referred to as "Hardware Trojan", has emerged as a serious security threat. Since it is extremely difficult to detect the presence of such Trojan circuits using conventional testing strategies, side-channel analysis has been considered as an alternative. In this paper, we proposed a non-destructive side-channel approach that characterizes and compares transient power signature using principle component analysis to achieve the hardware Trojan detection. The approach is validated with hardware measurement results using an FPGA-based test setup for large design including a 128-bit AES cipher. Experimental results show that this approach can discover small (<;1.1% area) Trojans under large noise and variations.


Polymorphism in coding regions and regions controlling gene expression is the major determinant of adaptive differences in natural populations. Genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) p ...


This paper studies the auction problem of divisible goods, and proposes a uniform price auction method of divisible goods based on uncertain supply. The stimulant and validity of this method are proved, and an equilibrium result is also educed about auction under a uniform price. Therefore, this paper provides a universally applicable new method for auctioning and allocating the divisible goods.


This open‐label, multicenter, dose‐escalation study evaluated multiple dose levels of immunotherapy in patients with metastatic hormone‐refractory prostate cancer (HRPC). The immunotherapy, based on the GVAX platform, consisted of 2 allogeneic prostate‐carcinoma cell lines modified to secrete granulocyte‐macrophage‐colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF).


Future large adaptive telescopes will trigger new constraints for the calibration of adaptive optics (AO) systems equipped with pre-focal deformable mirrors (DMs). The image of the DM actuator grid, as seen by the wavefront sensor (WFS), may evolve during the operations because of the flexures of the opto-mechanical components present in the optical path. This will result in a degraded AO performance that will affect the scientific operation. To overcome this challenge, it will be necessary to regularly monitor and compensate for these DM/WFS mis-registrations, either by physically realigning some optical components or by updating the control matrix of the system. In this paper, we present a new strategy to track mis-registrations using a pseudo-synthetic model of the AO system. The method is based on an invasive approach where signals are acquired on-sky, before or during the scientific operations, and fed to the model to extract the mis-registration parameters. We introduce a method to compute the most sensitive modes to these mis-registrations that allows us to reduce the number of degrees of freedom required by the algorithm and to minimize the effect on the scientific performance. We demonstrate that, by using only a few of these well-selected signals, the method provides very good accuracy for parameter estimation, well under the targeted accuracy, and has a negligible effect on the scientific path. In addition, the method appears to be very robust to varying operating conditions of noise and atmospheric turbulence and it performs equally for both pyramid and Shack–Hartmann WFSs.


Photoelectron diffraction (PhD) is a well-developed technique to study the structure of adsorbate overlayers. In particular, it has been demonstrated that the local adsorption site can readily be determined via a simple inversion of energyand angle-resolved spectra. To apply these so-called direct methods usually a set of spectra for different emission angles is needed. This leads in general to rather long data-aquisition times, a substantial drawback of the technique. Here we present first results using a display-type analyzer that allows to simultaneously record photoelectrons within a cone of 1.4π and thereby to substantially reduce the recording time. As an example we have studied Si adsorption on Cu(110). Si is known to form a c(2×2) structure at a coverage of 0.5 monolayer (ML) [1,2]. Recent LEED investigations find substitutional adsorption with a slight vertical contraction of the Si-Cu distance as compared to Cu-Cu [2]. At 1 ML coverage a (2 × 1) structure is formed. In the intermediate coverage regime (0.5 – 1 ML) the (2 × 1)-pattern gradually develops and exhibits streaks along the [110] direction. For these three structures the local adsorption site of the Si atoms was investigated by PhD. The experiments were performed at BESSY I using the HE-TGM-1 beamline. The monochromator is designed for high flux with a corresponding restriction in energy resolution. Silicon films were prepared on a Cu(110) substrate at room temperature using a standard electron-beam evaporator, calibrated via a quartz microbalance. Surface order and Si coverage were monitored by LEED, Auger, XPS and PhD at high kinetic energies (forward focussing). For angleand energy-resolved PhD the modulation of the XPS intensity of the Si 2p1/2 and 2p3/2 core levels was recorded in the photon energy-range of 200 to 500 eV. Three different excitation geometries were used. The field vector ~ E was aligned either parallel to the [001] or the [110] azimuth for normal incidence (θ = 0◦) and parallel to the [001] direction for θ = 15◦, respectively. The combined energy resolution was set to 2 eV yielding typical signal to background ratios below 0.2 : 1 for 0.5 ML Si coverage.


The Wnt / b -catenin pathway is highly regulated to insure the correct temporal and spatial activation of its target genes. In the absence of a Wnt stimulus, the transcriptional coactivator b -catenin is degraded by a multiprotein "destruction complex" that includes the tumor suppressors Axin and adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), the Ser / Thr kinases GSK-3 and CK1, protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), and the E3-ubiquitin ligase b -TrCP. The complex generates a b -TrCP recognition sitebyphosphorylation of aconserved Ser / Thr-richsequence near the b -catenin amino terminus, a process that requires scaffolding of the kinases and b catenin by Axin. Ubiquitinated b -catenin is degraded by the proteasome. The molecular mechanisms that underlie several aspects of destruction complex function are poorly understood, particularly the role of APC. Here we review the molecular mechanisms of destruction complex function and discuss several potential roles of APC in b -catenin destruction. binding. This competition isthe basisfor models suggesting that Axin is displaced from b -catenin when the Axin-bound kinases phosphorylate APC.


We discuss the issues related to fabrication of InP based MMICs for government and commercial production applications. InP based MMICs offer unique advantages for many government systems which include lower noise figure, lower DC power consumption and higher linearity. Under the MAFET program, TRW is bringing both InP HEMT and InP HBT-based MMICs from a R&D state into production capability. Manufacturing issues will be addressed from a critical node point of view, where critical nodes are defined as those process steps with the greatest impact on the MMIC performance and yield.


Basic investigations were carried out on the usability of aluminum nitride thin films for the manufacturing of ultrasound transducers. Some design considerations were performed for different sensor designs, electrode sizes and substrate materials in this work. It could be shown that the electrode size can be smaller than 1 mm square for use as high frequency sensors. Different substrate materials are principle usable, like e.g. silicone, aluminum oxide or quartz. Additional tests showed that these sensors can also be used for high temperature application up to 200 °C. The reason is the very good temperature resistance of the AlN thin films. The sensor design was varied for these investigations and simulations based on a MASON model assisted the material considerations. Ultrasonic microscopes are frequently used for the non- destructive evaluation of micro-technical components and structures; because of their versatility and efficiency. The frequency of an ultrasonic test system defines the attainable resolution and the penetration depth into a material. The higher the frequency is, the better is the resolution and the smaller is the penetration depth. The efficiency of conventional microscopes can be enhanced by a combination with high frequency phased array (PA) techniques. With the use of segmented transducers (~ into pixels divided sensors), it is possible to evaluate the whole volumes of specimen in 3 dimensions. The advantage is that the ultrasonic transducer does not need to be manipulated mechanically by a scanner. The shape and the sound beam direction can be controlled on a large scale since each of the array elements can be pulsed with appropriate time delays. At present PA ultrasonic sensors with working frequencies up to 20 MHz are available, but frequencies above 50 MHz are necessary for the applications that require a high resolution. Therefore new high frequency PA sensors need to be developed. A promising alternative piezoelectric material is


that little remains to be said concerning it. There is, however, one fact in connexion with cases of this kind which is, I believe, undeniable: the longer the symptoms have persisted the more uncertain is the effect of operative treatment, even if an obvious cause for their existence be discovered and removed. Operations, on the other hand, performed within a reasonable time of the onset of the symptoms are, so far as my experience goes, always immediately successful. In other words, those cas-s which come into the hands of the surgeon early afford immediacely satisfactory results; in those, on the contrary, who have for years been subjected to tedious and futile medical treatment, the functions of the parts concerned become so impaired, and the mood of the patients so depressed and pessimistic, that the removal of the original cause of the trouble is not followed directly by the complete relief expected, although in course of time the relief, if not complete, is at all events sufficient to give the patient no cause for regretting the performance of the operation. The earliest period, so far as I have seen, at which any true estimate of the value of the operation can be made in these deferred cases is at least one year. I shall not be surprised to hear that considerable improvement yet ensues in the case deseribed above. [Note.-Since the above was written, Sir William Bennett's hopes have been partially realized.-E. P.]


Photograph of the 1966 Grand Lodge of Texas' cornerstone ceremony at La Plata Junior High. H. W. Fullingim, Grand Master, stands with other Masons.


This article considers the predictive capabilities of Fire Dynamics Simulator for sprinkler actuation time when benchmarked against data from a series of 22 enclosure experiments. Sensitivity analyses have been undertaken for grid size, conductivity factor, radiative fraction and enclosure leakage areas. 'Goodness of fit' calculations indicate that Fire Dynamics Simulator is able to provide an average prediction of sprinkler actuation time within a Euclidean relative difference of 0.18. Comparisons to results determined in previous studies, using different modelling methods and Fire Dynamics Simulator versions, have also been made. The sensitivity analyses and comparisons indicate the importance of the decisions made by the modeller in representing fire scenarios, even when modelling 'simple' experiments where data for inputs such as the heat release rate, geometry and sprinkler characteristics are available. The comparisons therefore indicate that with the reduced degrees of freedom compared to other modelling studies, there is still potential for a range of assumptions and simulation results.


In the context of substantial recent collections of Taraxacum in the Irish Midlands, this paper records some additions to our knowledge of Irish dandelions. Four new species in Taraxacum section Celtica A. J. Richards are described, T. aesculosum, T. gaelorum, T. hibernicola and T. inclinorum; only the first is known outside Ireland, where the first three are quite widespread. Taraxacum pietii-oosterveldii H. Øllgaard, a relative of T. nordstedtii Dahlst., is newly recorded for Ireland from six Irish vice-counties; it also has not yet been recorded from Britain. The rare British wetland species T. anglicum Dahlst. and T. palustrisquameum A. J. Richards are recorded from Ireland for the first time, and the Spanish species, T. nietoi A. J. Richards, apparently extinct in Britain, has persisted in an Irish locality for 10 years. A new variety of T. ronae L. J. Margetts which lacks leaf spotting is described as var. immaculatum A. J. Richards; this variety seems more common in Ireland than the type. Taraxacum ronae is a common and widespread species in Ireland.


The constantly rising demand for human-like conversational agents and the accelerated development of natural language processing technology raise expectations for a breakthrough in intelligent machine research and development. However, measuring intelligence is impossible without a proper test. Alan Turing proposed a test for machine intelligence based on imitation and unconstrained conversations between a machine and a human. To the best of our knowledge, no one has ever conducted Turing's test as Turing prescribed, even though the Turing Test has been a bone of contention for more than seventy years. Conducting a bona fide Turing Test will contribute to machine intelligence evaluation research and has the potential to advance AI researchers in their ultimate quest, developing an intelligent machine.


The tertiary cutaneous syphilis has become extremely rare as a result of the effective treatment of early syphilis with penicillin and occasional antibiotic therapy for concomitant infections. We report a case of tertiary gummatous syphilis associated with asymptomatic neurosyphilis that was initially misdiagnosed as basal cell carcinoma of the skin. A 67-year-old woman presented with the 18-month history of multiple, firm, bluish-red asymptomatic nodes on the parietal scalp, chin and lateral part of the trunk that had developed without preceding trauma. One node on the trunk had small central ulceration covered with dry yellowish crust. On the left retroauricular area the brownish-purple atrophic scar was observed. Blood tests revealed reactive VDRL, ELISA and TPHA assays. Skin biopsy has showed endarteritis with endothelial swelling and caseating granulomas along with plasmocytic infiltrate in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Increased lymphocyte count and the positive VDRL test with cerebrospinal fluid have confirmed the diagnosis of asymptomatic syphilitic meningitis in this patient. The treatment with aqueous penicillin intravenously has lead to resolution of the skin infiltrates and progressive more than 4-fold reduction of follow-up serum VDRL titers. This case is reported as a reminder of the possibility of tertiary syphilis with misleading clinical patterns in patients infected during the epidemics of 1995-2000. We would like to emphasize the necessity to perform timely serological and pathomorphological study to prevent misdiagnosis and mistreatment.


The concentration of six heavy metals such as Cu, Cr, Ni, Cd, Zn and Mn were studied in the soils around Perlis. The aim of the study is to assess the heavy metals contamination distribution due to industrialisation and agricultural activities. Soil samples were collected at depth of 0 – 15 cm in five stations around Perlis. The soil samples are subjected to soil extraction and the concentration of heavy metals was determined via ICP - OES. Overall concentrations of Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, Cd and Mn in the soil samples ranged from 0.003 - 0.235 mg/L, 0.08 - 41.187 mg/L, 0.065 - 45.395 mg/L, 0.031 - 2.198 mg/L, 0.01 - 0.174 mg/L and 0.165 - 63.789 mg/L respectively. The concentration of heavy metals in the soil showed the following decreasing trend, Mn > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cr > Cd. From the result, the level of heavy metals in the soil near centralised Chuping industrial areas gives maximum value compared to other locations in Perlis. As a conclusion, increasing anthropogenic activities have influenced the environment, especially in increasing the pollution loading.


Stability and dynamics of rotating coaxial cylindrical shells conveying incompressible and inviscid fluid are investigated. The interior shell is assumed to be flexible while the exterior cylinder ...


OBJECTIVE
To investigate the prevalence and clinical feature of essential tremor (ET) in a community cohort of the elderly in Kashkar.

METHODS
By using a door-to-door, two-phase screening approach, some 2834 residents of Hans ethnicity were investigated form 2008 to 2009.

RESULTS
In this study, 184 ET patients were found. The prevalence rate of ET was 6.49%. The prevalence rate was increased with age and higher in men (8.45%) than in women (4.59%), especially in people aged above 75 years old. The prevalence rate of ET was 7.26% in illiterate people, followed by 7.27%, 5.81%, 5.58% and 9.37% in those having received primary, junior, senior high school and college. The ratio of windowed people in ET patients was 15.21%, higher to the ratio of windowed people in total number.

CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence rate of ET increased with age, but not influenced by education.


The art and project training activity is a required component of educational process at schools. It is reflected in numerous works by outstanding researchers in pedagogics and psychology (namely, Matyash N.V., Pishev S.G., Usataya T.V. and others). In the meantime, the resources and potential of art and project activity do not realize in full within the supplementary art and esthetic education. It is determined by the insufficient scientific grounding of the activity in art education .The research aims to determine the essence and contents of art and project activity that influence simultaneous and complex activation of the components of teenagers' graphic skills. The following methods are implied: the review of pedagogical, psychological and art literature; observation, questionnaire survey, interview, test, expert evaluation, pedagogical experiment, generalization and systematization of empirical data .As a result, we determined and experimentally proved the specific features of art and project activity, namely, integrity, phasing and subjectivity, an application of wide range of innovative educational methods and forms, combination of the possibilities of teenagers' involvement in various spheres of the artistic learning of the world. In other words, it possesses high pedagogic potential which aims to develop communicative skills of artistic thinking, integrated knowledge and skills in fine and project arts; to study the methods of projecting, comprehensive application of the acquired knowledge and skills in creative task performance; to train independency, responsibility for work and its results . The practical relevance of the research lies in the application of the obtained results in the development of adapted and authors' educational programs by the teachers of fine arts and design in secondary schools and children supplementary education institutions that perform special artistic training.


The Junior Aptitude Tests (JAT) were administered to black, white, coloured and Indian pupils in Std 7 to determine whether the test battery measures the same psychological constructs in the various population groups. Factor analyses of the intercorrelations of the JAT test scores showed a three-factor solution for each of the groups. In the case of the white pupils (the reference group) these three factors were tentatively identified as a spatial, a memory and a verbal factor. These constructs were subsequently specified in a LISREL-type model and fitted to the data for all four population groups by means of the computer program RAMONA. Although a poor fit was obtained the same measure of fit was obtained for all four population groups. This finding points firstly to the absence of bias in the construct validity of the JAT and secondly to a greater resemblance between the cognitive structures of the different cultural groups in the RSA than is generally believed. The use of language in tests appears to be a potential source of bias in the case of the black pupils.


Our goal in this chapter is to provide an up-to-date and relatively comprehensive treatment of procedures for assessing mediation and moderation in socialpersonality psychology. Both of these processes enable researchers to ask questions of their data that extend the theoretical scope of inquiry beyond simply establishing some overall experimental effect or some simple relationship between two variables. That is, they both begin to enable researchers to arrive at a more comprehensive theoretical understanding of what produces an effect of interest by probing intricacies of that effect. As such, they are related but distinct analytic tools. They are related in the sense that they permit researchers to probe mechanisms underlying and limiting conditions for effects of interest. And yet, the questions they pose are fundamentally different, in ways that are often confused, and the underlying models are distinct.


A Simple Synthesis of Primary Amines via their N,N-Bis(trimethylsilyl) Derivatives

Primary halogen compounds 1 or the corresponding tosylates react with sodium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (2) in hexamethyldisilazine to form N,N-bis(trimethylsilyl)amines 3, which are converted into the amine hydrochlorides 5 by treatment with aqueous HCl.


This study aims to provide a comparative account of teachers' experience and views of their role when using digital games in primary classrooms in England and Italy. Interviews and a survey administered online and in hardcopy were used to find out teachers' perceptions of game-based learning and how these impact upon their role as a teacher. This research also considers the interview findings in relation to the dynamics between curriculum design, learning culture and practice when implementing game-based learning. A strong link was found between how learning is designed to incorporate digital games, the theories and strategies that have been used in the context of a given curriculum and how these are realised in practice within the classroom. The research also showed that teachers are aware that their roles when using new technologies in education have changed. However, because of the lack of necessary training, teachers are not clear on how to adopt these changes. In some respects the curriculum was regarded to be flexible enough to accommodate game-based learning, however, in other respects it was felt that a more radical reform this would be needed. The difference in country-specific curricula, pedagogy and practice highlights the need for a flexible model or approach of embedding digital games into primary classrooms in a way that is sensitive to context. Some practical guidelines based on the current work are also provided.


The first experience of psychosis can be hugely disruptive to a person's life. If left untreated, psychosis can gravely impact the long-term wellbeing and functioning of the person. In the last ten years in the U.S., the rise of the Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) model for treating First Episode Psychosis Is a hopeful development for addressing the unique challenges of those experiencing psychosis. The CSC model can potentially improve long term quality of life outcomes amongst people experiencing psychosis There have been a range of empirical studies typically conducted at the state level that show a positive range of outcomes for participants that engage in the program. However, the rapid implementation of these programs and the use of slightly different models and components leaves challenges for accurately determining how effective these programs are. There are also a lack of qualitative studies that center the voices of the participants themselves. To determine potential areas of improvement within CSC programs, I conducted a scoping review of the literature to answer the following research questions: As described in the empirical research literature, what is the efficacy of Coordinated Specialty Care programs for treating first episode psychosis? As described by participants, what is the efficacy of Coordinated Specialty Care programs for treating first episode psychosis? Are there discrepancies between the empirical research literature and first-person accounts of participants? This scoping review highlights current scholarship on the efficacy of CSC programs within the United States and locates gaps in research and practice that could better these programs through additional research.


A series of modified polyurethane elastomers(SPUs) with hydroxyl terminated polydimethylsiloxane containing carbonyl(PDMS-C) were synthesized with polytetramethylene ether glycol(PTMG) and PDMS-C as mixing soft segments by prepolymer method.The structures of SPUs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy,and the effects of PTMG/PDMS-C(mole ratio) on mechanical properties and high/low temperature resistance of SPUs were investigated.The results showed that PDMS-C was grafted on to polyurethane chain segment successfully.The tensile strength of SPU decreased with increasing PDMS-C content,but the retention rate of tensile strength was evidently larger than that of the polyurethane elastomers modified with common hydroxyl terminated polydimethylsiloxane.The high/low temperature resistance of SPUs was improved to a certain degree with the increase of PDMS-C content.


Information and understanding of fishing activities at sea is important to fisheries science, public authorities and policy-makers. To understand the spatial–temporal distribution characteristics of squid-jigging vessels and how the marine environment affects the distribution of squid-jigging vessels in the North Pacific Ocean, operation behavior of the squid-jigging vessels was analysed by using spatial–temporal factors and marine environmental factors. The fishing effort (FE) information was calculated based on automatic identification system (AIS) data of squid-jigging fishing vessels in the North Pacific Ocean from July to November in 2017 to 2020, and the overlay maps of the spatial distribution of environmental factors and fishing effort were plotted together with four environmental variables (sea surface temperature (SST), sea surface height (SSH), sea surface salinity (SSS), and concentration of chlorophyll-a (Chla)). A generalized additive model (GAM) was used to investigate the nonlinear influence of the marine environment on squid-jigging fishing vessel activity in the North Pacific Ocean. The results show that fishing effort increased from July to August and then decreased from September to November. The fishing effort was highest in August. The intensity of the fishing effort suggests squid-jigging vessel operations had significant seasonal variations. The overlay maps suggest that the fishing effort of squid-jigging vessels was mainly located in areas where SST was between 10∘C and 20∘C, SSH was between −0.3m and 0.2m, SSS was between 32×10−3 and 34×10−3, and Chla was between 0.1mg·m−3 and 0.4mg·m−3. The generalized additive model indicated evidence of nonlinear relationships between fishing effort and the three environmental factors. The favorable ranges of SST, SSH, SSS and Chla for fishing effort were 15∘C∼18∘C, 0∼0.2m, 33×10−3∼34×10−3 and 0.2mg·m−3∼0.4mg·m−3, respectively. Moreover, the area beneficial to fishing effort was in 41∘N∼44∘N, 152∘E∼165∘E.


In order to better optimize and configure public transport resources, we will find the rules of the bus lines different people taking, and predict which bus lines different people choosing. To solve this problem, this paper proposed a new Naive Bayesian algorithm classification model with local attribute weighting based on K-nearest neighbor algorithm. In the process of algorithm calculated, we used the K-nearest neighbor algorithm to find the K neighbors to be classified, then calculated the probability of each attribute in K neighbors as the weight of the attribute. Later, we put the weight of attribute into Naive Bayesian classification process, which makes the classification model more realistic and predicted the label. We used K-nearest neighbor, decision tree and Gaussian naive Bayesian algorithm as control group. Experiments were carried out on bus historical data in one city. The results show that the model has high accuracy in the bus line selection prediction.


This paper is about the literary representation of supply chains: the political‐material pathways by which goods are produced and delivered to consumers. It considers the ethical and aesthetic problems posed by the fact that the daily lives of people living in consumer societies in the Global North are deeply dependent on material networks that sustain violent relations between people and with earth's ecologies. How can we be ethical global citizens when we are already material global subjects? The paper considers how literature confronts this ethical‐representational challenge, and asks whether literature might help us take responsibility over the material economic networks that structure our everyday lives. I examine two novels that make use of strikingly similar techniques for narrating their characters' immersion in globalized economies: Ben Lerner's 10:04 (2014) and Ling Ma's Severance (2018). Both novels strive to represent the incomprehensible global economy by calling attention to their inability to represent it. I argue that this technique—which I call the "supply chain sublime"—ultimately reflects the incapacity of current forms of collective political agency to manage our material lives.