The English Patient is a masterpiece written by the Canadian writer Michael Ondaatje. This paper seeks to apply the archetypal theories to analyzing the dominant archetypal images in this novel, including fire, desert, garden and the Good Mother. The seemingly fragmentary and casual archetypes form a universal structural relevance which determines the interior consistence of the theme of the novel.


Mlcroteaching is a technique for developing teaching skills. The authors report a study that assessed graduate students' perspectives of a microteaching experience. Information is provided to help current and potential faculty members to improve their teaching skills through microteaching.


This paper examines the impact of the United States Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) on the exports of manufactures of four East European and Mediterranean countries: Cyprus, Romania, Turkey, and the former Yugoslavia. These countries were chosen because (1) there has been relatively little research done on the effects of the GSP program on their exports, (2) it is interesting to examine whether developing countries with relatively planned economies can and/or will respond to tariff incentives, and (3) they represent countries in the middle-income range as classified by the World Bank. Previous work by the authors of this study and others suggests that countries at this stage of development might be most likely to benefit from the U.S. trade preferences program. In the final section of the paper some changes to the GSP program to enhance its effectiveness in increasing nontraditional exports from developing countries are recommended.


Based on the model of well-drilling layout with square grid, the model with non-uniformity grid is discussed. The model present to not only familiar drilling engineering but also other applied problem. In currently case, the problem can be solved by optimization method, but a simple, effectual method applied to diverse grid is given in this paper.


The gonads of the starfish, Asterina pectinifera, in the north Hokkaido were histologically examined during two years. In June and July, rapid growth of gonads was induced in consequence of the spermiogenesis in testis and the formation of yolk and pigment granules in ovary. The testis and the ovary exhibited a full-grown state in August. In the beginning of September, the gonad wall increased in thickness. Besides, the sperms in testis decreased in amount and aggregation of the follicle cells occurred in ovary. Thus, it was concluded that the breeding of the starfish in this Island was achieved in the beginning of September. Thereafter, ovarian development was seen again in autumn. But, in winter the ovary remained in the state of rest.


Some of the latest findings and research avenues in the realisation of bioinspired macromolecular actuators are highlighted in this paper. In particular, available technologies suitable for micro-scale devices (conducting polymers and carbon nanotubes) and macro-scale devices (dielectric elastomers) are separately analysed, with particular emphasis to the design of bioinspired actuating configurations and to the related main breakthroughs still needed.


by the mathematical statistics method and logic analysis method,conducts the research from the characteristics of the 2007 men's Volleyball World Cup and the 2011 men's Volleyball World Cup captain position,age and technology. Come 1),average age of the two session of the men's Volleyball World Cup all team members is 26 years old,the average age of the captain was 31 years old,the average age of the men's volleyball team captain all players than the average age of 5 years older. 2) The men's Volleyball Setter attack,second,font,position players can act as the captain,but most of the main players,can be the main players for the priority. 3) men's volleyball team captain options should first consider the technical ability the team's outstanding player,and should also consider technical ability is not outstanding,but the personality and leadership ability,consciousness and non technical ability outstanding player. Suggestions,first,male volleyball captain key consideration about the age of 31 players,second,the main players,first consider the volleyball technical ability outstanding second,consider other position players,technical ability outstanding again,consider the technical ability is not outstanding,but the ability of character,leadership ability,consciousness and other non technological factors of outstanding player.


This paper examines performance of 95 actively managed U.S. sector equity mutual funds from 29 fund families relative to their peer exchange-traded funds, SPDR sector ETFs, in the period of 2008 to 2017. Our results do not show considerable evidence that actively managed sector mutual funds outperform their passive counterparties. None of the mutual fund portfolios produces a significant positive alpha through factor models or delivers a significant positive alpha against their peer ETFs. When focusing on the 9 oldest actively managed Fidelity sector mutual funds, outperformance in the period of 1999-2010, which is reported in literature, appears to fade away during the period of 2011-2017. Alpha analyses of a larger sample of 60 sector mutual funds show similar performance deterioration in the same 19-year period. The results indicate that U.S. sector equity market has become more efficient in the past decade.


from staphylococcal infections, 45% of which were frequent in children, but there was no significant difference in incidence between the sexes. The chance of recurrence of staphylococcal infection in an individual was double the incidence in the general population, while the risk of a recurrence in any members of the same family was four times the rate experienced by a family with no previous infection. Infection in one individual later spread to other members of the family in no fewer than half the cases. It was nearly always found that a single staphylococcal strain was the cause of all the lesions in a family. Comparing the staphylococcal strains found in the lesion and in the anterior nares, these were found to be identical in the individual with the lesion in twothirds of the instances, while in half the cases another member of the patient's family was carrying the lesion strain, whether or not the patient was a nasal carrier of this strain. Evidence is presented for the belief that the axilla and the perineum must be regarded as carrier sites in addition to the nose, and that there may be an association between the position of the lesion and the site of carriage of the causative staphylococcus.


Let γ be the Gauss measure on Rd and L the Ornstein–Uhlenbeck operator, which is self adjoint in L2(γ). For every p in (1, ∞), p≠2, set φ*p=arc sin |2/p−1| and consider the sector Sφ*p={z∈C : |arg z|<φ*p}. The main result of this paper is that if M is a bounded holomorphic function on Sφ*p whose boundary values on ∂Sφ*p satisfy suitable Hormander type conditions, then the spectral operator M(L) extends to a bounded operator on Lp(γ) and hence on Lq(γ) for all q such that |1/q−1/2|⩽|1/p−1/2|. The result is sharp, in the sense that L does not admit a bounded holomorphic functional calculus in a sector smaller than Sφ*p.


This paper examines the effect of natural selection on the composition of a population when the expected numbers of offspring of the different genotypes are decreasing functions of population size. It is shown that the eventual outcome of selection (whether there is a stable polymorphism or fixation of one or other allele) is determined by the genotypic K—values, but that the r—values influence the composition of equilibrium populations. With certain r—values there may be permanent oscillations in population size and gene frequency. A different model of selection, where selective differences are unrelated to differences in r and K in a regulated population, is also described and its relevance to the problem of genetic load is discussed. See full-text article at JSTOR


Operational observation in Indonesia, where has much amount of active convections under the tropical maritime climate with high atmospheric and sea surface temperatures and abundant water vapor supply, showed more than 100-200 days of lightning a year and more than 10 times/km2/year of lightning density. Developed convective systems with lightning (thunderstorms) often generates severe mesoscale phenomena of heavy rainfall, gusty wind, and tornados, as well as lightning strikes at the ground. Indeed, much amount and kinds of serious damages caused by thunderstorms have been reported in Indonesia, e.g., massive blackout and serious damage on electrical devices in urban areas, and forest fires and burn-out of high voltage power lines in rural regions. Although Virts et al. (2013a, 2013b) clearly documented lightning climatology over Indonesia based on TRMM LIS and the World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) observations, temporal and spatial distributions of lightning activity and their dynamics have not been examined in detail because ground-based radar and lightning locating observations are not well organized and satellite observations have deficiencies in their spatial resolution and sampling frequency. We started three years (JFY2013-2015) program to study lightning activity mainly over Jakarta, where is the capital megacity in Indonesia and has much risk to be damaged seriously by thunderstorms especially in the social sector, to clarify its characteristics from both the points of precipitation climatological and mesoscale meteorological views based on three approaches as follows: 1) statistical analyses for lightning activity by using operational surface observation and TRMM satellite, 2) case studies on environmental conditions for severe thunderstorms based on a C-band radar and surface observation data already obtained, and 3) campaign observation by using X-band dual-polarimetric radar, VLF receiver network, and hydrometeor video soundings. We examined 13-years SYNOP data for statistical analysis of lightning activity around Jakarta and its relation to rainfall variation based on GSMaP data as the first step. Seasonal variation of lightning frequency shows two peaks in April and November, which correspond to periods just before and after the peak of the rainy season in February around Jakarta, at most of the stations over the inland region. However, these peaks are not clearly shown at stations close to the coastline of Java Sea and one peak in February is more predominant. Because previous studies (e.g, Hattori et al. 2011, Wu et al 2007) suggested the cross equatorial northerly surge (CENS) intensify local convection around Jakarta in the boreal winter season, the effect of CENS to generate thunderstorms was limited only along the coastal region but not for inland in February. Intraseasonal variation of lightning activity based on MJO index clearly shows a major peak in the MJO phases 3 (eastern Indian Ocean) and minor one in phase 7 (western Pacific). It suggested the lightning activity was intensified at the leading and trailing edges of MJO large scale disturbance which is consistent with previous studies (e.g., Morita et al. 2006). Whereas, GSMaP data show a peak of rainfall around Jakarta in the phase 3 at the same time of lightning peak, though the previous studies showed the rainfall was peaked in the phases 4-5 (maritime continent). We plan to examine lightning characteristics more focused around Jakarta and its relation to rainfall quantitatively by adapting the rain-yields per flash (RPF) (Williams et al 1992, Takayabu 2006) and the other parameters. More than 15-years TRMM LIS and PR data shall be used in our future study as well as Asia VLF network (AVON) and WWLLN datasets.


The objective of the present study was to determine the low molecular peptides in Echinochloa seeds as biomarkers for classification. Some peptide-based biomarkers for the classification of Echinochloa species were identified using SELDI-TOF, a mass spectrometry (MS) technique. Proteomic profiling using SELDI-TOF MS techniques could be a useful and powerful tool to discover peptide biomarkers and to discriminate and classify Echinochloa species, especially under 20 kDa. In 12 Echinochloa species, a total of 72 peptides were significantly detected on strong anion exchanger (CM10) and weak cation exchanger (Q10) arrays. Sixteen peptides on CM10 and 12 peptides on Q10 were selected as peptide biomarkers. The hierarchical heat map analysis of the peptide-based biomarkers indicated that Echinochloa species were classified into two groups and then more precisely subdivided. One major cluster group included early barnyard grass (ECOR), large barnyard grass (ECREC), jungle ricegrass (ECOLON), meadow barnyard grass (EPRAT), and barnyard grass (ECHCG). Hairless barnyard grass (ECGL), cockspur (ECRCR), awned billion-dollar grass (ECFRAW), awnless billion-dollar grass (ECFRAWL), awnless barnyard grass (EMITIS), awnless Japanese barnyard millet (EESCAWL), and awned Japanese barnyard millet (EESCAW) belonged to the other group.


Patients' organisations have tabled three specific recommendations to enable them to provide greater input into European and national health policies and research programmes.

The proposals, unveiled at a conference organised by the European Patients' Forum in Gothenburg on 9 and 10 December, are directed at the various European Union institutions and at national governments.

While acknowledging the commitments already made to the rights of patients, the organisations point out that these are largely medical and ethical. They would like rights extended to include participation in decision making and policy development and resulting programmes and projects, helped by …


The ADVANCE (Advanced Driver and Vehicle Advisory Navigation Concept) Project is an ATIS demonstration project located in northeastern Illinois. The initial project focus was to provide real-time information to vehicles for use in route guidance. Over a seven month period, 75 vehicles were used in a 300 square mile area testing a dynamic route guidance system. The vehicles utilized differential GPS navigation as well as dead reckoning and map matching to navigate their way through the study area. The vehicles themselves acted as probes, sending real-time travel information to a Traffic Information Center that in turn transmitted the information to other vehicles to aid in dynamic route planning. This paper focuses on the current status of the system. Integration was completed on the four subsystems and system evaluation commenced in June 1995. Extensive testing was performed on the dynamic capabilities of the subsystems with the result some algorithms have required retuning. Public drivers participated in general data collection, yoked driver tests and familiar driver tests through the end of 1995. The in-vehicle portion of ADVANCE has now been completed and the transformation is well underway of the Traffic Information Center to a regional center distributing travel time information for the Gary-Chicago-Milwaukee Corridor.


According to several highlight issues in entitat ive inspection of concrete structure such as detection basis, its relationship w ith acceptance and the determination of inspection plan analysis is carried out. Inspection contents are introduced based upon analysis of the signification of the entitative inspection for concrete structure.


With the increase in population and the acceleration of the urbanization process, the output of vegetables in China has increased yearly, accompanied by a large amount of vegetable waste. If not disposed of promptly, it will cause pollution to the environment. Therefore, the treatment of vegetable waste has become an urgent problem. This article systematically summarizes the current status of vegetable waste treatment technology, mainly introduces the methods, characteristics, limitations, and development trends of vegetable waste treatment, and summarizes the leading technologies for vegetable waste treatment.


OBJECTIVE To study the expression of CD127 on CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes of HIV-1/AIDS patients with or without HAART,and the relationship with disease progression.METHODS A cross-section study of 48 AIDS patients without HAART and 57 AIDS patients receiving HAART was carried out and healthy people were recruited as controls.The percentage of CD4+CD127+ and CD8+CD127+ T cells was tested using flow cytometry.HIV-RNA in plasma of HIV-1/AIDS patients was detected by quantitative RT-PCR.RESULTS The percentage of CD4+CD127+ and CD8+CD127+ T cells in AIDS patients without HAART was higher than that of AIDS patients receiving HAART and controls,which decreased with the increase of HIV-1 load.The percentage of CD4+CD127+ and CD8+CD127+ T cells in AIDS patients receiving HAART was still lower than controls.Expression of CD127 on T lymphocytes was related to CD4+T cell count,which was highly expressed with higher CD4+T cell count.CONCLUSION Expression of CD127 on peripheral lymphocytes of HIV-1/AIDS patients decreases significantly and can be increased by effective HAART,which can stimulate the count and function of T lymphocytes of HIV-1/AIDS patients.


1. Abstract A 39-year-old man presented to the emergency room with complaints of fever, shortness of breath and pronounced dry cough for 1 week. On physical examination, his respiratory rate was 28 breaths/min and his oxygen saturation was 87 % on room air, improving to 96% on 8L/min oxygen via a non-rebreathing mask. He also had palpable crepitus around the neck and the upper thoracic region. Reverse transcription (RT)-PCR analysis of COVID-19 was positive. Chest computed tomography showed typical find ings of COVID-19 pneumonia, affecting 60% of lung parenchyma. CT scan was also remarkable for severe pneumomediastinum with extensive subcutaneous emphysema extending into


What's Engineering Knowledge? How different is it from traditional Scientific Knowledge? How can we obtain reliable Engineering Knowledge? How can we assess the value of Engineering Knowledge? To help answer these questions and contribute to a reflection on the epistemology of engineering, we propose a model where engineering is seen as developing in four dimensions linked in a transdisciplinary relationship. We then articulate this model with the four key questions of the philosophy of knowledge, to clarify the nature of this relationship and illuminate some distinctive attributes of engineering knowledge.


Literature on mergers and acquisitions often suggest that the majority of transactions fail to deliver anticipated returns, or fail to meet the declared goals. This is studied for a serial acquirer that achieved more than 300 M&As transactions in the period 1985 to 2013. The findings indicate that the acquiring company adopted an acquisitive strategy and achieved phenomenal growth and positive performance. The investigated case provided a better understanding of how to growth can be achieved by relying on acquisitions. The research identified five success factors that were shared among all acquisitions: Clear vision, asset complementarity, relatedness and brand architecture strategy, target size and integration reliance on debt and phenomenal leadership.


This paper discusses the regular pattern of re-injection wells and provides the foundation for optimizing water injection.The paper derivates "Hall equation" and establishes the linear relationship between water volume and cumulative(pressure difference multiplied by injection time).The result shows that "Hall equation" can be used to simulate 16 water injection wells in the Chuanzhong gas field.The relationship can describe the law of sewage water wells,solve formation parameters,and quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of the intensified injection measures.


Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)–based models of the brain will be key to unraveling the role of APOE ɛ4 in the interconnected cellular changes underlying Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating, complex, and incurable disease that represents an increasingly problematic global health issue. The etiology of sporadic AD that accounts for a vast majority of cases remains poorly understood, with no effective therapeutic interventions. Genetic studies have identified AD risk genes including the most prominent, APOE, of which the ɛ4 allele increases risk in a dose-dependent manner. A breakthrough discovery enabled the creation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) that can be differentiated into various brain cell types, facilitating AD research in genetically human models. Herein, we provide a brief background on AD in the context of APOE susceptibility and feature work employing hiPSC-derived brain cell and tissue models to interrogate the contribution of APOE in driving AD pathology. Such models have delivered crucial insights into cellular mechanisms and cell type–specific roles underlying the perturbed biological functions that trigger pathogenic cascades and propagate neurodegeneration. Collectively, hiPSC-based models are envisioned to be an impactful platform for uncovering fundamental AD understanding, with high translational value toward AD drug discovery and testing.


Consideration of wear, an irreversible phenomenon, is a very important criterion in design. The knowledge of wear and its behavior enables one to make major considerations to conceptualize and design efficient machinery components with enhanced performance and reliability. The present work deals with the introduction of a novel approach of correlating wear with the thermodynamic properties of the system. The approach involves relating wear to thermodynamic entropy flow in the system using the laws of thermodynamics. This relation is verified experimentally and theoretically by considering a sliding contact in a disk-on-disk configuration for two sets of contacting materials namely Bronze SAE 40 on Steel 4140 and Cartridge Brass on Steel 4140. Verification of the methodology is achieved by calculating Archard's wear coefficient using the relationships derived in this thesis and comparing it to values in literature. A theoretical model that simulates thermal response in sliding contact has been developed to theoretically verify the proposed relation. The model is based on the idea that sliding contact of two bodies would result in plastic deformation in the near surface region, that we refer here as the 'severely deformed region' (SDR). This plastic deformation results in heat generated in the SDR and subsequently rising the temperature of contacting bodies. The experimental analysis and the theoretical model verify the proposed relation with good agreement. The coefficient of friction has also been calculated and compared with the experimentally measured value.


This study examined whether 60 college students (41 women and 19 men), grouped according to their career locus of control, were differentially affected by a videotaped career intervention. The intervention was an attributional retraining procedure designed to persuade students to attribute low levels of confidence in making career decisions and career-related failures to a lack of effort. Results indicated that the career decision-making self-efficacy (CDMSE) of students who initially exhibited an external career locus of control significantly increased after the attributional retraining procedure (p < .05), whereas the students who initially exhibited an internal career locus of control demonstrated no significant increase in CDMSE after attributional retraining.


According to the guidelines about the professional reform of institutions of higher education Computer Science and Technology education steering committees of the Ministry of Education,Combining with the distinct oil industry background,In this paper,some foundational principles of reform are proposed and some aspects on software engineering profession with characteristics of the industry are discussed,such as the goal of training,curriculum,implementation and the performance assurance,etc.We hope it can give some useful experiences for the reform of training model of general professionals in some industry universities and has positive reference to the reform of entire computer specialty.


PPROXI]MATELY two years ago, we were engaged in a series of experiments wherein fractions of transplantable human EAk 2tumor cells, prepared by ultracentrifugation or sucrose gradient techniques, were used for the immunization of f rats, mice, and hamsters of various ages. None of the rats and mice, whether newborn or older, ever developed abnormalities though more than so litters were injected with the fractions in each species. However, in this early series, among ioo litters of newborn hamsters comprising 932 babies that had received the fractions at birth, 8X mongoloid-type animals appeared.' The deformity was most specific and was characterized by small size, a flattened foreface or microcephalic domed head, protruding eyes and tongue, abnormal or absent teeth and bone fragility (Figures I and 2). It was in no wvay similar to the "runting" often described in rats or mice. Of these first 81 mongoloid hamsters, 41 were males and 40 females, an even distribution according to sex, that has continued. The single injection, given to the hamsters immediately after birth, was less than .03 mil. It was usually given subcutaneously but could be injected intraperitoneally with similar results. These early materials were prepared in 0.25 ,All or o.88 al1 sucrose. Later preparations have also been made in normal saline, Ringer's solution, or distilled water. The type suspending medium does not appear to be of moment. None of these solutions used alone as controls have produced abnormalities. This, of course, is important per se but it is also of significance as regards the technique of handling and isolation employed, i.e., that infection did not occur from other sources than the injections. It was noted that the abnormality could be produced occasionally as late as 48 hours after birth. Later, when a higher titer of the effective agent was obtained, deformities xvere produced with injections


ABSTRACT: In this study, we searched the existence of human norovirus (NoV) GI, GII and GIV in the stool of 128 pet dogs with diarrhea, of different sex, age and breed, in Burdur, Turkey, using Real-Time PCR method. Human NoV GII was found in only 5 of the 128 dog stool samples (3.91%). It was discovered that human NoV existed most in crossbreed, female and aged 24 months or over dogs. These dogs found with human NoV GII were either bought from pet shops, stray dogs or taken as puppy of another pet dog. The sheltering conditions of these dogs were moderate and they were fed with home food residue and dry food. It was also found that most of them were vaccinated and had certain walking sites. The owners of the animals detected with infection generally did not have the habit of washing their hands or changing their clothes before or after caring their pets. We strongly advice that dog owners' personal hygiene, the necessity of changing their clothes during their contact with animals, the environment provided for the dog, the sensitivity in caring, use of strong and effective disinfectant, keeping the dogs away from toilets and sewerage systems, as well as not feeding them with food residues are crucial issues in dogs' care. Owners of the dogs with NoV GII were middle aged or elderly people, male, and there were no children in their houses. As these dogs are treated like the owner's child, it is assumed that they could be transmitted with NoV GII as a result of close interaction with their owner.


Background: There are two approaches to identify candidates for the prescription of osteoporosis treatment: identification of patients with low bone mineral density using DEXA of the axial skeleton and calculation of the 10-year probability of major osteoporotic fractures using FRAX®. Aims: to assess the diagnostic accuracy of different FRAX® thresholds in the Russian population. Materials and methods: the value of individual 10-year probability of osteoporotic fracture by FRAX® at the time of inclusion in the study was retrospectively estimated in 224 postmenopausal women, whom the major osteoporotic fractures were recorded over 10 years of prospective observation. The diagnostic accuracy of different thresholds were compared: "European" and Russian age-dependent thresholds, fixed 20% threshold, the average FRAX® of patients who had a major osteoporotic fracture during follow-up (16%), FRAX® value corresponding to the "cut-off point" (12,5%). Results: The Russian FRAX model showed the acceptable diagnostic accuracy of the method (AUC=0.665±0.036; 95% CI 0.595; 0.736). The "European" threshold of therapeutic intervention demonstrated 72% sensitivity and 38% specificity, 20% threshold – 27% and 87%, the Russian threshold – 41% and 77%, 12.5% threshold – 68% and 58%, 16% threshold – 57% and 73%, respectively. The diagnostic precision of the specified thresholds was 54%, 58%, 60%, 63% and 65%, respectively. Conclusions: the Russian age-dependent threshold remains the optimal way to decide whether to initiate anti-osteoporotic therapy based on an assessment of the 10-year probability of fracture by the Russian model for FRAX®.


The Icotea and VLE faults are two of the major faults in the Maracaibo Basin, which are known from seismic and well data to have been most active during Paleogene time. Both faults have linear traces over distances up to 100 km, are deeply buried by largely unfaulted Neogene sedimentary rocks, and are associated with localized continental growth strata of Paleogene age along their traces. The origin and displacement history of both faults has remained controversial partly because of along-strike complexities in fault structure, use of highly exaggerated 2D seismic lines, and the lack of synoptic views of the entire fault systems. Interpretations range from east-dipping basement-involved thrust faults to sub-vertical left-lateral strike-slip faults controlling pull-apart basins. In this study we use regional 2D seismic data crossing both faults and 3D seismic data covering a 1600 km2 area of the southern basin to describe the structures associated with the terminations of both faults. These data show that both faults are inverted normal faults first formed during late Jurassic-early Cretaceous. The abrupt termination of both faults in the southern part of the basin probably corresponds to the southern ends of two parallel rift structures. While we cannot rule out strike-slip motion along both faults, their abrupt terminations and lack of termination structures suggest that strike-slip displacement is probably small. In addition, we cannot rule out low angle thrust tectonics in the genesis of both faults since thrusts are confined to the basin edges and are not observed in the basin center.


In an era marked by increasing concerns about environmental sustainability, the telecommunications industry faces a pressing need to examine its commitment to sustainable development practices. Therefore, this study investigated the drivers and constraints influencing the adoption of such practices within the industry, with particular emphasis on the roles and interactions of ecosystem players. The research employed structural equation modeling (SEM) in AMOS to test the hypotheses and multilayer perceptron (MLP), which is an artificial neural network model, to assess the importance of each variable in the context of sustainable development adoption (SDA). This study analyzed data obtained from a diverse sample of telecommunications professionals, including telecom operators, device manufacturers, technology providers, and content and service providers. The findings reveal that stakeholder expectations held the highest normalized importance, suggesting their paramount influence in driving sustainable practices within the industry. Competitive advantage emerged as the second most significant factor, contributing to the adoption of sustainable strategies by companies. Conversely, cost and ROI concerns presented a constraint that potentially hindered SDA. This research contributes to the comprehensive understanding of sustainable development in the high-tech sector, aiding industry practitioners and policymakers in fostering a more sustainable future for the telecommunications industry. The implications derived from the sensitivity analysis provide valuable insights into prioritizing efforts and resources to enhance sustainable development adoption in the telecommunications sector.


The quantitative evaluation of experimental data and their graphical presentation are integral to teaching and research in chemistry and the life sciences. Data are commonly fitted to physical models, which in all but the simplest cases are expressed as nonlinear mathematical functions. To facilitate data evaluation in both teaching and research contexts, the Fit-o-mat program, implemented in Python, offers versatile nonlinear least-squares curve fitting through a graphical user interface. Fit-o-mat supports near-arbitrary fitting functions, including numerical and discontinuous ones, produces vectorized graphics, runs on different operating systems, and is free of charge, thus promoting the adoption of the program by students and instructors in the classroom and beyond. An embedded tutorial mode facilitates integration of Fit-o-mat into teaching curricula at the undergraduate and graduate levels.


International space agencies around the world are currently developing optical communication systems for Near Earth and Deep Space applications for both robotic and human-rated spacecraft. These applications include both links between spacecraft and links between spacecraft and ground. The Interagency Operation Advisory Group (IOAG) has stated that there is a strong business case for international cross support of spacecraft optical links. It further concluded that in order to enable cross support the links must be standardized. This paper will overview the history and structure of the space communications international standards body, the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS), that will develop the standards and provide an update on the proceedings of the Optical Communications Working Group within CCSDS. This paper will also describe the set of optical communications standards being developed and outline some of the issues that must be addressed in the next few years. The paper will address, in particular, the ongoing work on application scenarios for deep space to ground called High Photon Efficiency, for LEO to ground called Low Complexity, for inter-satellite and near Earth to ground called High Data Rate, as well as associated atmospheric measurement techniques and link operations concepts.


This chapter is a plea for a novel kind of framing: one that allows us to observe law-in-action across various mediations; one that allows us to grasp the complexities of cases in becoming; one that reflects on its limitations and that accounts for its partiality. This multifaceted framing results in a transsequential method: a method that follows case-making over a longer period of time and that participates in a series of more or less contingent events. Originally, the law-in-action approach developed in opposition to the law-of-the-books orientation towards doctrines (Pound 1910). "Where is the field?" is a question hardly ever asked by ethnographers who 'just' approach institutions, cultures or regions. Ethnography can profit from sociological concepts that seem rather devious at first sight. The 'event and process'-pair is commonly employed in historical sociology.Keywords: ethnography; historical sociology; law-in-action


Improving science generic skills on non-physics major students through introductory physics course is one of challenging tasks, but it is less studied. The objective of the research was to know the effectiveness of integration of interactive multimedia, collaborative work, and reflective thinking on introductory physics course to increase science generic skills on prospective of vocational high school teachers in foods program. The research used control group pretest-posttest design. The populations were students of prospective of vocational high school teachers in foods program of state university in East Java. The samples were taken by purposive random sampling technique, and then divided into two groups by matching group technique, 35 students on experiment group as well as 33 students on control group. On experiment group, students posed by problems that had to resolved by collaborative works. In order to resolve the problems, student learned concepts underlies of the problems through interactive multimedia. After problems were resolved, students reflected the steps of resolving problems. Science generic skills test was used as instrument. Data was analyzed with Mann-Whitney U Test, to compare normalized gain of science generic skills between experiment group and control group. Result showed that integration of interactive multimedia, collaborative work, and reflective thinking on Introductory Physics course was effective to improve the science generic skills on prospective of vocational high school teachers in foods program.


A color computer graphics animation movie was developed to illustrate simulated water temperatures in Tellico Reservoir. Movie depicts March through October of a typical annual cycle in five minutes of animation. A FORTRAN program used DISSPLA software and an Information International FR 80 graphic recorder to produce a 16 mm color, silent movie. Displayed data were taken from the results of a two-dimensional hydrodynamic computer model.


The collaboration of services scattered over the internet is often required in solving a complicated scientific problem or finishing a complex business process. Centralized client/server architecture used in traditional service collaboration mechanism such as workflow has exhibited many weaknesses. We adopt the concept from peer-to-peer computing and Synergetics, and introduce an innovative middleware for structured-based service collaboration, in which each service node belongs to one or more structured collaboration organizations and is allowed to join and leave (planned departure or sudden failure) freely. We also propose neighborhood-based maintenance mechanism to cope with the dynamics of collaboration organization structure in a decentralized manner.


Alloeodectes mcgrewi (Russell) 1984 is based on isolated teeth, from Chadronian (Late Eocene) localities in the Cypress Hills Formation of southwestern Saskatchewan, that were interpreted as the up...


The aim of this work is to analyze the marketing communication in the company Raciola Uherský Brod, s.r.o. The main objective is to identify the current situation and finding new opportunities in marketing communications. The theoretical part describes the marketing mix and marketing communications in general and current trends in the marketing and marketing analysis. The practical part is devoted to introduce the company, to describe the current state of marketing communication within the company, characteristics of competi-tion, Porter's analysis, PEST analysis and SWOT analysis. Based on the results of the ana-lysis, new proposals and recommendations for improvement are compiled.


The purpose of the real work is development of technology of cosmetic cream on the basis of the water stabilized extraction from a grass of a Melissa officinalis. The merchandising analysis of a grass of a Melissa officinalis is carried out, its numerical indicators are defined: humidity of 6,05%, contents: the sums of flavonoids, in terms of luteolin, 1,188±0,034%, organic acids 2,352±0,051%; acid ascorbic – 130 mg%; the oxidized substances 5,081±0,092%. Influence of the modes of extraction of raw materials on concentration of extractive substances in extraction was studied. The optimum conditions of receiving the stabilized melissa infusion providing its quality are defined: 1 phase insisting on the boiling water bath within 25 minutes, экстрагент water the cleared with a temperature of 95-98 °C, 2nd phase insisting at the room temperature before full cooling of extraction, not less than 45 minutes; number of stabilizers (nipagin of 0,15 g; trilon B of 0,5 g; sodium of metabisulphit of 0,5 g). On the basis of the stabilized water extraction from a grass of a melissa the composition of cosmetic cream was developed. A final part of cream are coconut oil 5,0; T-2 5,0 emulsifier; lanolin waterless 5,0; cocoa butter 5,0; turpentine 5,0; infusion of a melissa 1:20 to 100,0. The content of biologically active agents in cream made: the sums of flavonoids, in terms of luteolin, 0,036 ±0,001%, organic acids 0,072 ±0,003%; acid ascorbic – 1,311± 0,061 mg of %; the oxidized substances 0,112±0,004%.


. An upper bound is given for the order of the kernel of the map on S-ideal class groups that is induced by A • O N H-• A • 0 N( r^ y For some special types of number fields F the connection between the size of the above kernel for N = F{y/^a) and the units and norms in F(y/a) are examined. Let Ki{0) denote the Milnor K-group of the ring of integers of a number field. In some cases a formula by Conner, Hurrelbrink and Kolster is extended to show how closely the 4-rank of K 2 (0 F( ^r^ ) ) is related to the 4-rank of the S-ideal class group of F(y/â).


Abstract : All information available on snow cover in the Kyzylcha Mountain River Basin was examined. Connections between density and values of meteorological elements were sought for each month between December and April. In most months, the maximum influence on density of snow cover is exerted by the sums of positive 13 hr temperatures and the total of precipitation computed from 1 December to the day of the snow survey.


Among the growing list of confirmed exoplanets, the number of planets identified in dense star clusters remains sparse. Previous analyses have suggested that this may be due in part to dynamical interactions that can unbind planets from their host stars, limiting the survival of planetary systems in clusters. Thus, alternative detection strategies may be necessary to study planets in clusters that may no longer be bound to a host. Here, we use N-body models to explore the evolution of planetary systems in dense star clusters. Depending on various initial conditions, we show that 10%–50% of primordial planetary systems are broken through dynamical encounters over a cluster's full lifetime, populating clusters with "free-floating" planets. Furthermore, a large number (30%–80%) of planets are ejected from their host cluster through strong dynamical encounters and/or tidal loss. Additionally, we show that planets naturally mix with stellar-mass black holes (BHs) in the cores of their host cluster. As a consequence, up to a few hundred planets will be tidally disrupted through close passages of BHs. We show that these BH–planet tidal disruption events (TDEs) occur in clusters at a rate of up to 10−5 yr−1 in a Milky-Way-type galaxy. In principle, these BH–planet TDEs may be detected by upcoming transient surveys such as the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope at a rate of a few events per year, although identification of these events may prove challenging. The observed rate of BH–planet TDEs could place new constraints upon the formation and survival of planetary systems and BHs in dense star clusters.


We analyze some of the creditor's law enforcement actions in obligations, which in the theory of civil law have become accepted to be called creditor obligations. We dispute the thesis that it is possible to classify as obligations those actions that help in the implementation of creditor's subjective right and are part of the mechanism for its implementation. We provide an analysis of a number of creditor's necessary actions, which act auxiliary to the basic action to implement the subjective right in obligation. We propose to abandon the concept of "obligation" in relation to those creditorial en-forcement actions, the failure of which entails sanctions that are not related to liability measures. We establish that in the obligation within the framework of mutual subjective rights and obligations, there are creditor actions that do not contain leading economic significance, but have an auxiliary nature, ensure the fulfillment of the main economic obligations arising in the basic commodity-money relationship. The creditor's law enforcement actions include not only the acceptance of performance, but also other organizational actions of an actual nature, which, ultimately, are aimed at fulfilling the obligation by both parties. The non-fulfillment of the creditor's law enforcement actions does not entail direct responsibility for their non-fulfillment, only indirect possibilities of influencing the counterparty are established. The indirect means of influencing the creditor include the delay in fulfilling the obligation as a measure of operational impact.


This paper represents an extensioni to the search for methods more appropriate to exploration and testinlg of sociological propositions about organizatiolns. This search has focused recently on the use of simulated organizationls in laboratory experinmenits. Based on their experiences with a unique laboratory experiment on organization, the authors suggest that the advantages which normally accrue to experimentation canniot be generalized easily to experiimenitation with the miniature replica mlodel of organizationis. Followinig a report of the structure of their laboratory experimlenit, the authors attend to four critical problems associated with this form of experimenitatiotn: (1) the nature and combilnatioln of properties considered to constitute the miniatture replica of an organization, (2) institutinlg system anld measuremenit con-trols, (3) the provision of structural proof, ancd (4) ranidomiiizationi. THE SEARCH FOR METHODS In a search f or methods more appropriate to the exploration and testing of sociological propositions about complex organizations, attention has been focused recently on laboratory experimenltation. This shift in attention is consistent with the contentionl of some organizational theorists that until researchers can create organizations as desired and control parts of themll wlile varying otlhers, scientific progress will be inhibited.1 In this regard, Morris Zeldlitch and William Evan have claimiied that the connlectionl between the laboratory anld simplicity of structure is largely accidental and unnecessary, but this fact is "not yet widely accepted among sociologists."2 They furtlher contend that "tthroughl simulatioln of such processes tlhey (complex situations) may be simplified, mneasured, and maniipulated, so that rare states may be created, exact replicates ensureed, necessary contrasts obtained, confounlding factors ranidomized, extraneous disturbanlces elimllinated, and the whole observed comprehelnsively, precisely, and more or less at the will of the investigator."3 Althouglh somle proof of these claimiis has been demonstrated in laboratory experilm-ents, many of these advantages do not accrue so readily to certain formlls of organizationlal experimenitation. For examllple, Zelditch himself, alonlg witlh Hopkins, has noted that the decision to simulate and engage in organizational experimenltationi in the laboratory setting "gives rise to problems of its own."14 However, the problemlatic features associated witlh one form of organizational experimentationl-the mtzinIahtire replica nmodel-are mninimized and insufficiently differenltiated from other form-s. Yet, in viewv of the search for miore effective tools for organizational research, the promllise wlich 1 Chris Argyris, Understaniding Organ1i.Y(ational Behavior (Homewood, Illinois: The Dorsey Press, 1960), pp. 28-29. It is important to poinlt out, however, that experimental studies of simulated complex organizations are concerned with exploration and discovery as much as proof. On this point there seems to be considerable agreemlent. See, for example, Morris Zelditch, Jr. and William M. Evani, "Simulated Bureaucracies: A Methodological Analysis," in Harold Guetzkow (ed.), Sinlttlatio11 iii Social Scieonce: Readings (Eniglewoocl Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1962), p. 58. 2 Zelditch anid Evan, op. cit., p. 48. 3 Ibid., p. 2. By simulationi we imiean the process of selecting and generating a set of properties which represent, in part or wlhole, the essential properties of a setting for social action anid utilizing this set of properties to further an understanding of that social action. 4 Morris Zeiclitch, Jr. and Terence K. Hopkins, "Laboratory Experimlenits with Organizations," in Amitai Etzioni, Complex Organi-zatiois (New York: Holt, Rinehart, atd Winston, Inc., 1961), p. 468. This content downloaded from 126.96.36.199 on Sat, 08 Oct 2016 05:57:57 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms MINIATURE REPLICA OF COMPLEX ORGANIZATIONS 419 this form of experimiental researclh hiolds for the advanlcenment of organizationlal tlheory dleserves furtlher critical notice. Our intent, then, is to report the structure of a unique laboratory experimelnt on complex organization anld then to relate this experience to the claimis miiade for organizational experimentation with the miniature replica model. In view of the remarks of Chapman, et al., that "as of niow the miatter rests as a set of substantive and metlhodological insighlts in need of extensionl," this paper will explore the following problems: (1) the nature and combination of the properties considered to constitute the miniiature replica of an organization, (2) the problem of devising and instituting systemn and miieasuremiient controls, and (3) requiremenlts for the provision of structural proof. A brief comlmient is then directed toward the problem of ranldolmiizatioln in laboratory experimlents of complex organizations. THE ISR STUDY: A UNIQUE LABORATORY EXPERIMENT ON ORGANIZATION6 This laboratory experimeent stemmed from an interest in constructing a tlheory concerned witl the relationslhip betweenl types of organizational structures and the variations in types of rolestrains generated by these structures. For the laboratory experiment whlich represents one phase in a larger program of researclh, twventy adults, both nmales and femiiales, were employed and paid comnpetitive salaries for their work. Tbese employees were recruited fromii the labor market in the Seattle metropolitani area. They worked four hours a day for a montlb in the developnmze,nt of ideas concerning tbe stimulation of interest in and the person-to-person commnunication of information about a prominent civic event.7 Tbe ideas were forwarded to the conmmunity organization responsible for tbe entire success of this imnportant civic event. Representatives of this organization cooperated witlb tbe researchers by orienting the twenty emnployees of our simulated work organiization to the planls and efforts whiclh surrounded the civic evenit, by furnishing materials to assist in the clevelopmlent of ideas, by senclinlg liaison persons to visit the work teams to informn tlhemi of progress and new plans regarding the civic event, and hy extending tlheir gratitude and awarding lhonorary pilns to the emlployees wlho worked in the simulated organization (s). These contacts with the "parent" civic organization anld otlher activities were planned by the experimenters to promote a realistic work atmiosphere and to communicate to the employees a sense of being close to the organization for wlviclh their output had some actual significance. The laboratory organization contained two separate work units or suborganizations. Each worki unit emiployed ten persons, one of whlom was initially designated as the supervisor, and indeed hiired specifically for this position. After thie assignment of two males to the supervisory positiolns in the units, the remainder of the employees were assignied randomly to the two work units. A furtlher division of the employees witlhin eaclh of the work ulnits resulted in two work teams. Each of the work ulits also had one person wlho acted as observerinformialnt for the research team. The director of the entire work organization, including the two supervisors and the four work teams, was a member of the researclh teamn. The study was divided into two phases. a Robert L. Chapman, JohnL. Kennedy, Allen Newell, and William C. Diel, "The Systems Research Laboratory's Air Defense Experiment," Joitiiural of Manayeiiieiit Sciencc, 3 (April 1959), p. 268. 6 This experiment was conducted as onie phase in a larger two-year study of organizational structure and role-strains under Grant Number W-186 from the National Institutes of Health. The authors of this paper were the director and associate director, respectively, of this study. Research assistants and colleagues who were intimiiately involved in the experiment in its various phases were Joseph Jones, Pauline Lucas, Donald MacLeod, and Dr. Herbert L. Costner. ISR refers to the Institute for Sociological Research at the University of Washingtoni where this experimenital study was conducted. The authors wish to express their appreciation to the Director, Dr. Otto N. Larsen, and otlher mlembers of the ISR staff wN-ho assisted throughlout the study alnd to Dr. Costnerl for his suggestions in the critical reading of this paper. 7 The development of ideas within work teams involved highly verbal behavior of persons in close and continiual interaction with one another. This kind of task was selected, in part, because we were concerned with simulating unstandardized work activity with some facets of professional relationships. Appropriately trained and qualified personnel were selected for this kinid of task. This content downloaded from 22.214.171.124 on Sat, 08 Oct 2016 05:57:57 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms


Polyaniline (PANI) nanoparticles of different sizes were synthesized and embedded into membranes to prepare poly(ether sulfone) (PES)/PANI nanocomposite ultrafiltration membranes. The size and dispersion of PANI nanoparticles were determined using transmission electron microscopy and the dynamic light scattering method. The effects of PANI nanoparticle size and content on membrane characteristics and performance were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, water contact angle measurement, and cross-flow filtration experiments. Overall, PANI nanoparticles that were smaller in size had better dispersion in the casting solution and more uniform distribution in the blended membrane. The nanoparticle size had a significant influence on the modification efficiency of membrane surface pore structure and permeability. The antifouling performance of the membranes was investigated by BSA solution filtration. To evaluate membrane fouling, the filtration resistances w...


In this research, a flame-retardant water-dispersed polyurethane resin was synthesized through incorporating phosphonate groups into the polyurethane structure in the chain-extension step. A phosphorus-containing reactive flame-retardant compound was synthesized for this purpose. First, bis(4-nitrophenyl)phenyl phosphine oxide was synthesized and then converted to bis(4-amino phenyl)-phenyl phosphine oxide (BAPPO) by reducing its nitro groups into amines. The obtained products were characterized by IR, 1 H-NMR, and 31 P-NMR, and the thermal properties of the polymers were determined by DSC analysis. The BAPPO-containing polyurethane showed physical properties that were almost similar to those of phosphorus-free polyurethane and exhibited good flame resistance with a limiting oxygen index value of 27.


Abstract:  The mechanical behaviour of marble architraves, restored with titanium bars and suitable cementitious material, is studied with the aid of the finite‐element method. The study was motivated by the needs of the conservation project in progress on the Parthenon Temple of the Acropolis of Athens. A realistic numerical model was created taking into account the exact geometry of the threaded bars as well as the exact mechanical properties of the materials involved. The architrave was considered as a prismatic beam of rectangular cross section, centrally fractured and restored with one threaded titanium bar. The bar was inserted in a hole of slightly greater diameter drilled in the member and filled with suitable cementitious material. In this way, a sequence of three materials appears (marble–cement–titanium) giving birth to two interfaces (marble–cement and cement–titanium). Emphasis was given to the influence of the cement layer on the stress and strain fields. The cement was modelled as either linear or bilinear material and the analysis indicated the crucial role of this layer for the drastic reduction in the strain discontinuities.


The potential drying rate of cut forage grasses and legumes, following treatment with a 2% potassium carbonate (K2CO3) solution, were compared with those of untreated crops under laboratory conditions. Material was fully exposed to a flow of conditioned air (20°C; 50% relative humidity). Treatment with K2CO3 had little effect on the drying rate of a range of cultivated grass species. The drying of legume species, particularly lucerne was accelerated. The average reduction in lucerne drying time, following K2CO3 treatment, was 63% and was similar for a range of varieties. The differential drying of lucerne leaf and stem fractions was reduced following treatment, and reduced further by selective treatment of the stem. Potassium carbonate treatment was superior to traditional mechanical conditioning for accelerating water loss from cut lucerne. The practical implications are discussed.


The useful planning and operation of the energy system requires a sustainability assessment of the system, in which the load model adopted is the most important factor in sustainability assessment. Having information about energy consumption patterns of the appliances allows consumers to manage their energy consumption efficiently. Non-intrusive load monitoring (NILM) is an effective tool to recognize power consumption patterns from the measured data in meters. In this paper, an unsupervised approach based on dimensionality reduction is applied to identify power consumption patterns of home electrical appliances. This approach can be utilized to classify household activities of daily life using data measured from home electrical smart meters. In the proposed method, the power consumption curves of the electrical appliances, as high-dimensional data, are mapped to a low-dimensional space by preserving the highest data variance via principal component analysis (PCA). In this paper, the reference energy disaggregation dataset (REDD) has been used to verify the proposed method. REDD is related to real-world measurements recorded at low-frequency. The presented results reveal the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method in comparison to conventional procedures of NILM.


Fire retardancy behavior of polypropylene–magnesium hydroxide–clay composites of different morphologies is presented. Layer- and needle-like clay nanoparticles in natural and organically surface modified form have been compared. Fire retardant performance of the composites was evaluated by conical combustor and by horizontal burning test, while the structure was characterized by SEM. Rheological analysis of varied temperature provided further information about the strength of the formed combustion residue. The results confirm that fibrous and layered clay nanofillers act synergistically and can be combined with MH microfillers advantageously for improving the flame retardancy of PP composites. Significant improvements were observed in combustion parameters, as well as in flammability classifications. Combination of montmorillonite and sepiolite type of clays resulted in the increased time to ignition, and markedly decreased heat release rate. These advancements are ascribed to the char stabilizer effect of nanofillers leading to increased strength of the residue. It is also concluded that not only the interaction between micro- and nanofillers, but also the nanofillers–nanofillers interaction plays a key role in fire retardant mechanism. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


The glycolytic enzyme enolase associates with the endoribonuclease RNase E in Escherichia coli and many other bacterial species. The crystal structure of the complex reveals the basis for the molecular recognition and provides clues as to the possible function of the interaction.


NTZ (nitazoxanide), recently approved in Mexico, is available from the PWA Health Group in New York as an experimental treatment against cryptosporidiosis. NTZ is being studied as a treatment for many parasites in developing countries. In the U.S., NTZ is in phase I trials for cryptosporidiosis, which causes severe diarrhea in persons with AIDS. A compassionate access program recently was expanded from 100 to 150 slots, but many people were still not able to obtain the drug. In addition, on June 21, 1996, a U.S. Customs office seized half of the PWA Health Group shipment of NTZ. The PWA Health Group is confident the shipment will be released soon.


The cDNA fragments of gene vp2 of very virulent infectious bursal disease virus strain HK46 were cloned into the EcoRI site of expression plasmid pSOC to obtain recombinant plasmid pSOC-VP2. Then the recombinant plasmid pSOC-VP2 was conducted into the competent cell of BL21 (DE3) by Ca~(2+) to obtain the engineering bacterial strains BL-SOC-VP2. By addition of IPTG at end concentration of 1 μg/mL, BL-SOC-VP2 expressed SOC-VP2 fusion protein with relative molecular mass (49 000). It was showed by density-metry scanning on SDS-PAGE gel that the largest amount of SOC-VP2 fusion is 14.35% of total bacterial protein. It was demonstrated also by ELISA that bacteria expressed SOC-VP2 which specifically reacted with antisera against IBDV.


The color index, taken as the ratio of the percentage of hemoglobin (compared to "normal") to the red blood cell count (compared to "normal") has been a useful clinical figure in differentiating iron deficiency from other types of anemia. However, the lack of single "normal" figures for the percentage of hemoglobin and red blood cell counts, as well as the differences in males and females, has always made the number somewhat arbitrary. With the advent of hemoglobinometers in which 100 per cent corresponds to 13.5, 14, 15.6 or 17 Gm., the problem is further complicated by the difference in readings of the percentages. These would give the same person different percentages on the different instruments. The same person could have a "normal" color index with one instrument, a high index with another and a low index with a third. To avoid these discrepancies and still obtain a figure which would


This paper introduces Carnegie Mellon campus-wide ${\text{ Carnegie}}\mathbb{P}\mathbb{L}\mathbb{U}\mathbb{G}$ test-bed. This test-bed in a hardware-in-the-loop simulator that enables large-scale sensing, computation and actuation over a network of heterogeneous energy producers and consumers (prosuming) assets. ${\text{ Carnegie}}\mathbb{P}\mathbb{L}\mathbb{U}\mathbb{G}$ is a multi-agent framework that facilitates plug-and-play integration of a wide range of virtual and physical sensors and controllers through a multi-layer architecture. Virtual functionalities are accessed in software environments that interface with communication layer of our test-bed. This paper discusses ${\text{ Carnegie}}\mathbb{P}\mathbb{L}\mathbb{U}\mathbb{G}$ layers, provides implementation details and showcases potential applications of this test-bed through preliminary results.


ABSTRACT This conceptual paper describes how Contextual Action Theory and its associated methodology, the Action-Project Method, can be used to study real-time identity processes as they are embedded in identity construction over time. Contextual Action Theory is a conceptual framework based on the view that human action is goal-directed. In this view, identity construction is conceptualized as a series of goal-directed actions over an extended period of time. Within that series of actions are the specific real-time identity processes defined as everyday activities as people engage together. These real-time processes operate as building blocks of identity construction. The Action-Project Method is a comprehensive protocol for conducting longitudinal qualitative research. Goal-directed actions are considered through three interacting dimensions: (a) levels of action, (b) perspectives on action, and (c) action systems. The Action-Project method is designed to collect data from the three perspectives on action: manifest action, internal processes, and social meaning. The description of the theory and method in relation to identity construction is followed by two case illustrations. The first case illustration demonstrates the use of the theory and method with two socially-related young adult participants. The second case illustration involves a counselor and a young adult participant.


Objective: To discuss the clinical effects of T-shaped plate internal fixation in the treatment of unstable distal radius fractures and nursing methods for it.Methods: Data of 236 fully documented patients with unstable distal radius fractures admitted to our hospital from November 2008 to November 2011 were analyzed retrospectively.They were divided into treatment group and control group according to treatment.Treatment group received T-shaped plate internal fixation,while control group adopted plaster splint external fixation.Therapeutic effects of two groups were compared and analyzed and nursing methods were concluded.Results: T-shaped plate internal fixation showed significant better effects than plaster splint external fixation(P0.01).Conclusions: In treating unstable distal radius fractures,open reduction T-shaped plate internal fixation is a treatment with definite effects which can effectively maintain radius length;ensure early functional training and quick rehabilitation of joint functions.Postoperative psychological nursing and effective instructions to perform functional rehabilitation training can raise patents' fracture healing rate and accelerate recovery.


The article presents the region peculiarities of the socio-economic development of Federal subjects in the Extreme North of Russia according to the key indexes (per capita Gross Regional Product (GRP), labour capacity, the rate of average monthly nominal wage, the unemployment rate). The infl uence of population educational level on the indexes behaviour is revealed in the article. Spearmen's correlation factor is as well used in the analysis. Estimated calculations proved that population higher education level in Northern regions does not infl uence the main socio-economic indexes in the economic development of the related Federal subjects. This fact testifi es the imbalance of labour supply and demand in the labour market. Forecasting system evaluation is suggested to satisfy the demand of regional economy in specialists with higher professional education.


The diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma is based on a histopathological examination, which is still the most reliable way of identifying oral cancer despite its high subjectivity. However, due to the heterogeneous structure and textures of oral cancer, as well as the presence of any inflammatory tissue reaction, histopathological classification can be difficult. For that reason, an automatic classification of histopathology images with the help of artificial intelligence-assisted technologies can not only improve objective diagnostic results for the clinician but also provide extensive texture analysis to get a correct diagnosis. In this paper various deep learning methods are compared in order to get an AI-based model for multiclass grading of OSCC with the highest $\mathbf{AUC}_{\mathbf{micro}}$ and ${\text{AUC}}_{\text{macro}}$ values.


An image managing method for making a search for, and classifying images stored in an image memory, the method includes specifying a search condition, making a search for the images stored in the image memory under the specified search condition, displaying index images of the searched images in one independent index display window, selecting a plurality of the index display windows, integrating the plurality of selected index display windows in one index display window, integrating and displaying the index images displayed respectively in the plurality of selected index display windows in the one integrated index display window, and registering as one group all images corresponding to the index images integrated in the one integrated index display window.


The purpose of this study is to examine the current state of gender inequality in the Sri Lankan accounting profession. Specifically, the study examines whether a glass ceiling (invisible simulated barrier) exists and whether such perception differs based on the gender. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires among 100 accounting professionals. The study found that there is no evidence to support that there is a glass ceiling for women in the accounting field in Sri Lanka. However, the study identified that even though the gender inequality has been reduced, perception on glass ceiling varies between males and females. Keywords: Gender inequality, Glass ceiling, Accounting profession, Sri Lanka. DOI : 10.7176/EJBM/11-33-02 Publication date: November 30 th 2019


Introduction: The association between premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) remains controversial. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that PVCs are associated with SCD. ...


We aimed to evaluate the effects of mecobalamin on the cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury of spontaneously hypertensive stroke prone rats. 72 male rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, nimodipine group, high-dose mecobalamin group, middle-dose mecobalamin group and low-dose mecobalamin group (n=12). All groups were administrated intragastrically every morning once a day for 7 continuous days. The model of 2 h of focal cerebral ischemia and 24 h of reperfusion was established by blocking middle cerebral artery. Neurological deficits were graded with reference to the Longa method. Cerebral edema was determined using the wet-dry weighing method. The volume of cerebral infarction was measured by triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining and the levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 beta and interleukin-8 were measured by radioimmunoassay. High and middle-dose mecobalamin significantly reduced the volume of cerebral infarction, alleviated cerebral edema and improved nerve function compared with those of the model group (p<0.05). Compared with the model group, high and middle-dose mecobalamin significantly reduced the levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 beta and interleukin-8 in cerebral tissue (p<0.05). Mecobalamin protected spontaneously hypertensive stroke prone rats from cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, which may be related to the decreased levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 beta and interleukin-8 in cerebral tissue.


The goal of this work is to describe a self-management system that correlates data sensed by different Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) and adjusts the number of active nodes in each network to provide an appropriate amount of measurements. The architecture considers the factors that make the external data relevant to the local network, such as the distance between covered areas, the relation between the types of sensed data and the reliability of the measurements. As a result, the operation of each network will be tuned to trade-off the accuracy of the measurements and the power consumption.


Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) was introduced 20 years ago as a minimally invasive prophylactic procedure to prevent aneurysm rupture. However, rupture after EVAR has been reported and is associated with a high mortality. Rupture after successful EVAR is usually preceded by endograft-related complications, such as type I endoleak and stentgraft migration detected by optimal imaging surveillance. In this issue of JEVT, Venermo et al. attempt to calculate the risk of AAA rupture after EVAR with persistent type Ia endoleak compared to the risk in a cohort of patients with untreated AAA of a similar size. The conventional wisdom is that type I endoleak increases aneurysm rupture risk after EVAR equal to that of a non-operated AAA and therefore needs endovascular reintervention or open conversion. Therefore, the findings that the rupture rate and aneurysm-related death are lower in patients with type I endoleaks compared to the untreated AAA group are interesting and challenge the commonly held notion that type I endoleak following EVAR is evidence of inadequate treatment. This observation suggests that EVAR is beneficial to the patient even if the deployment is not technically successful, which may be of importance in the high-risk patient with multiple comorbidities, a large AAA, and anatomy hostile to stent-graft repair. The authors report that the aneurysmrelated mortality was significantly reduced in the endoleak group compared to the untreated AAA cohort at all time points up to 3 years. The surveillance imaging protocol was good in that the investigators used both duplex ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography at each follow-up interval with independent classification of endoleak type by both a radiologist and vascular surgeon, although no misclassification rate is given. The length of follow-up is, however, relatively short; ruptures occur at all times during follow-up, with the mean interval from EVAR to rupture recently reported at 4.8 years. The importance of long-term 10year follow-up has been recently highlighted, and the patients in this study require further surveillance before we can draw robust conclusions. As the authors acknowledge, the potential mechanism of protection from rupture despite a persistent type I endoleak is unknown. It may involve prevention or limitation of AAA enlargement by endograft placement. Good stent position, despite an imperfect sealing zone, may allow only a small amount of blood to flow into an already depressurized aneurysm sac, limiting AAA enlargement. The cohort from this study was a ''controlled'' group of endoleak patients, whereby prompt secondary endovascular intervention was undertaken to try and seal proximal sites that gave rise to type Ia endoleaks. Hence, the


in the solution containing iodate. These results indicate that chemical states of iodate was changed by the transport from the solution to the plant. Previous work reported that oxidation state of iodine in the solution after cultivation of Komatsuna, Brassica Rapa var. pervidis was -1 [1]. They suggested the chemical state of iodine in plant is iodide. Our result showed the direct evidence of the chemical state change from iodate to iodide during transport from the solution to plant. The detail mechanism is clarified by the further experiments.


This article explores the sources of Islamic knowledge among young Muslim activists in Bima, Eastern Indonesia, who are often stereotyped as a hotbed of radicalism, and their religious types to reveal their intellectual dynamics. This article argues that, in modern times, as Islamic tendencies and orientations have diversified, young Muslims in the Bima region engage with many different aspects of the production and use of religious knowledge under the umbrella of Indonesian Islam. Moreover, they actively build peer-group-based intellectualism, fostering patron–client connections in the form of discussion and literacy development through student organizations, and this is influential in shaping their religious identities and religious types. This qualitative research involved 47 young Muslim activists, who are also senior high school and university students, 20 of whom were interviewed in-depth, while 27 others participated in focus group discussions. This research reveals that their sources of learning vary. However, the most critical media in shaping and confirming their religious understanding are the training and discussions held by their respective peer groups and organizations. Their literacy and references are also further developed through these forums. Learning resources accessed via social media are considered essential but unreliable in this digital era. Therefore, in their intellectual development, young persons need teachers and families to act as learning resource providers that co-exist with the literacy obtained through organizations. Such sources and ways of learning form a type of religiosity that is "practical" (embodied in daily practice) for most. Meanwhile, the "ideological" type of religion (fundamental to the Islamization movement) is only found in right-wing activists of Islamic organizations and does not thrive among the young people of Bima, Eastern Indonesia.


The invention discloses a security authentication method of a desktop cloud system. The security authentication method of the desktop cloud system includes that a desktop cloud access gateway receives a user account and user fingerprint features transmitted by a client-side; the user account and the fingerprint features are transmitted to an authentication server; and a first authentication result returned by the authentication server is received. The invention further provides the desktop cloud access gateway, the authentication server and the desktop cloud system. Due to the fact that the security authentication method, the access gateway and the authentication server of the desktop cloud system are adopted, the risk of user information disclosure can be effectively lowered, and the guarantee level of user information security under desktop cloud application scenarios is improved.


The aim of this research are to: (1) analyze the role of the seed farmers in East Lampung regency; (2) analyze the capacity ofseed farmers in East Lampung regency; (3) analyzing role of farmer groups'relation with the capacity of seed farmers for paddy rice sources in East Lampung regency. The study was conducted in East Lampung district seed farmers group with total sample of 59 farmers seed breeders. The method of analysis was used Pearson's correlation matrix. The results showed that: (1) the role of the seed farmers group as partnership forum and marketing units is the most important with the higher category results than group's role as learning forum and production units with the medium category; (2) the capacity of farmers in the seed production preparation and sustainability efforts was in the high category, while in the mastery of innovation, the application of technology components, and marketing orientation was in the medium category; (3) generally there is a significant corelation between the role of farmer groups with the capacity of breeder farmers with the exception relation of partnership forum, unit production and marketing unit with the application of technology components, and marketing unit with the marketing orientation and a partnership.Keywords: capacity, farmer breeders, role of group, seed


Based on the comparison of the peasant households' data for two historical periods,this paper focuses on the analysis of Chinese agricultural production factors input level,operation state and peasant households income sources in this latest century.In contrast to 80 years ago,the average household and per labor force's cultivated land have been only 30% of the 1930s,the land productivity has increased by 2-3 times and agricultural labor productivity by more than 3 times.The application of the biochemistry technology has priority compared with the application of mechanism technology.In terms of peasant household economies transformation,farmers' income sources tend to be multi-variant.


Abstract This article explores the role of occupation, education and income on individuals' perceptions of being politically represented. Based on ISSP surveys in 19 liberal democracies between 1996 and 2016 and a cross-national survey carried out in the mid-1970s, we analyse responses to the statement that 'people like me do not have any say about what the government does'. We show a clear occupational and educational hierarchy in perceptions of being politically represented (or having a political voice), with routine workers and skilled production workers perceiving themselves as much less well represented than upper middle-class professionals. Analysing changes over time, we show that class gaps were already large in the mid-1970s and increased further over the following decades. By contrast, class gaps were stable over the period from the mid-1990s to the mid-2010s. Most strikingly, we observe a sharp decline in perceived political influence among unionised workers since the 1970s. Supplemental data for this article can be accessed online at: https://doi.org/10.1080/01402382.2022.2046419 .


Today, eating habits in Western societies are to a large extent mirrored by the abundance and easy access to palatable food rich in fat and sugar (Bellisle et al. 2012). Consequently, the global prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in children, adolescents and adults is increasing at an alarming rate (Symonds et al. 2009). An unhealthy diet together with a sedentary lifestyle has been claimed responsible for the dramatic rise in obesity and metabolic syndrome (Kongsted et al. 2014). The pathophysiology of the obesity epidaemic remains, therefore, a major target of research in modern physiology (Henkin et al. 2012, Wend et al. 2012, Wronska & Kmiec 2012, Chabowski et al. 2013, Cui et al. 2013). The WHO has estimated that 300 million people worldwide will suffer from the metabolic syndrome and its associated disorders in the year 2025 (Seidell 2000). New therapeutic strategies are intensely investigated (Chabowski et al. 2012, Kirilly et al. 2012, Nduhirabandi et al. 2012, Wei et al. 2013). Probably, the WHO projections are an underestimate because overweight during childhood and impaired insulin sensitivity are not only noticeably increasing but are occurring at a much earlier age (Tantisira et al. 2008). Furthermore, this increase in childhood obesity is particularly worrisome because it is very likely to persist into adulthood and is associated with a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and several cardiovascular diseases later in life (Marchesini et al. 2005). Cardiovascular disease is no longer a burden of Western societies, but rises in developing economies at an alarming rate. Metabolic factors are critical determinants of cardiovascular pathologies, a link which is intensely studied (Blain et al. 2012, Hey-Mogensen et al. 2012, Phalitakul et al. 2013). Besides changes in diets combined with reduced physical activity (Vella et al. 2012, Rouffet et al. 2013, Svidnicki et al. 2013) – which are the best known attributable factors of obesity currently – there is an increasing awareness that maternal health and nutrition during pregnancy contribute to the accelerating incidence of obesity and cardiovascular disease (Heerwagen et al. 2010). For many years, the concept has been considered that critical windows in foetal development can determine the adult's susceptibility to diseases such as the metabolic syndrome. (McCance & Widdowson 1974). Already in the 1970s, A. Forsdahl, by using official statistical data on Norwegian counties, reported that poverty during adolescence followed by prosperity was positively correlated with risk of death from coronary heart disease. At this time, no biological mechanisms had been identified (Forsdahl 1977). In 1986, Barker and colleagues brought new facts to light as they began publishing reports on the association between an intrauterine environment, as determined primarily by low birthweight, and an increased risk of coronary heart disease later in life (Barker et al. 1989). Further investigations showed a correlation between low birthweight and type 2 diabetes (Hales et al. 1991). Additionally, a follow-up study was able to show an association between birthweight and the presence of metabolic syndrome (Barker et al. 1993). Overall, these studies generated the Forsdahl–Barker hypothesis, which today is well known as the 'foetal origins' hypothesis (Brenseke et al. 2013).


Since there is no universal regulations on cargo ownership transfer among countries,in international trade,one party's bankruptcy may bring severe impact to the other party in a transaction.In addition,cargo risk usually relates closely with cargo ownership in a trade.For risk transfer,international practices and provisions are more specific,even identical for terms FOB,CFR and CIF,and well accepted and abided by both buying and selling parties.However,the selling party must specify the contract,otherwise,risks can not be transferred.In any case,if there is a fundamental breach of a contract by the seller,buyer's remedial measures caused by the breach will not be affected by risk transfer provisions.


Human G protein-coupled receptors (hGPCRs) are the most frequent targets of FDA-approved drugs. Structural bioinformatics, along with molecular simulation, can support structure-based drug design targeting hGPCRs. In this context, several years ago, we developed a hybrid Molecular Mechanics (MM)/Coarse-Grained (CG) approach to predict ligand poses in low resolution hGPCR models. The approach was based on the GROMOS96 43A1 and PRODRG united-atom force fields for the MM part. Here, we present a new MM/CG implementation using instead the Amber 14SB and GAFF all-atom potentials for proteins and ligands, respectively. The new implementation outperforms the previous one, as shown by a variety of applications on models of hGPCR/ligand complexes at different resolution and it is also more user-friendly. Thus, it emerges as a useful tool to predict poses in low resolution models and provides insights into ligand binding similarly to all-atom molecular dynamics, albeit at a lower computational cost.


The increasing demand for high quality Content delivery has driven both network and service providers involved in (real time) media streaming to apply appropriate technologies as to offer better Quality of Services (QoS). Since frequently Content Service Providers (CSP) and Network Providers (NP) are separate business entities, it is not always possible for CSPs to obtain detailed network related traffic information, hence the necessity to develop techniques able to (partially) circumvent this constraint. This paper addresses this issue by proposing a strategy for dynamic Content Server access and selection, based solely on measurements done at either server location and/or client premises, based on a method used in Financial Technical Analysis for parameter evaluation.


Abstract Construction of buildings using concrete is more popular than the use other materials. As an alternative to utilizing waste around the environment, it is necessary to innovate concrete mixtures with other materials.In this study, waste anadara granosa shell were used basic material for coarse aggregate in a concrete mixture, with variation andora granosa material 20%, 50% and 80%. Manufacture of cylindrical specimens measuring 15 x 30 cm to be tested for compressive strength at the age of 7, 14 and 28 days. This experiment uses normal concrete quality Fc = 25 MPa as a comparison control. The sample used in this study was 3 pieces in each variation, as well as using the compressive strength frequency analysis. The results of the concrete research without the addition waste anadara granosa shell a compressive strength is 34.54 MPa. Concrete with the addition of a mixture 20% anadara granosa shell a compressive strength 26,04 MPa, concrete with addition of a mixture 50% anadara granosa shelll a compressive strength 17,55 MPa, and concrete with addition of mixture 80% anadara granosa shell a compressive strength 9,62 MPa. So that the greater the percentage of adding blood clamshells will reduce the compressive strength, but the addition of 20% shells still meets the design quality concrete. Keywords : Anadara granosa shell, Concrete, Compressive streng


The aim of the thesis is to develop the issue of unemployment, with a stronger focus on unemployment of graduates. It refers to the current state of unemployment of graduates and possibilities to decrease this high unemployment rates. The theoretical part of the thesis is focused on the findings of studies aimed at examining the state of unemployment, defining the basic concepts of the topic and finding the link between unemployment and possibilities of social pedagogy. There are analyzed causes and consequences of unemployment of graduates in the theoretical part. Methodo-logy, technique, interpretation and quantitative research findings are presented in the practical part. The subject of the practical part is research which is conducted on a sample of unemployed graduates registered at the Office of Labour, Social Affairs and Family of Martin.


Because of recent advances in model atmospheres for cool stars, there may be some doubt as to the validity of previous estimates of the Li abundance in the super-Li stars. Through the behavior of the resonance lines of K i, we show that these analyses are correct, and that the super-Li stars represent a real abundance peculiarity of Li. Key words: super-Li stars - Li abundances


ABSTRACT In the recent years, taekwondo has become a global sport, gaining international reputation and prestige, establishing itself amongst the official sports of the Olympic Games. With the globalization of taekwondo worldwide, the increasingly demanding requirements for practicing athletes, coaches and judges are inevitable. The aim of our study is to determine the types of kicking techniques used in a taekwondo match, as well as their quantitative dimensions. Based on the videos from the Sofia Grand Prix 2019 in taekwondo, we established the number (3939) and the types (29) of kicks used in the matches of the -68 kg category for men. The preferred kicks of the competitors were identified, as well as the individual style of play of the winner of the category. The point efficiency of the surveyed athletes for all their matches was calculated (22.63%). The number of blows inflicted on average per match was determined (140.67), as well as the coefficient of intensity of inflicting kicks in each round (2.55). We used observation, video analysis, expert evaluation, and statistical processing. The results showed that the competitors mainly used their front leg to strike. This has a serious impact on the training methodology. The number of kicks executed in a match and respectively in a taekwondo championship can have significant impact on the training methodology, as well.


textabstractGlaucoma is a heterogeneous group of optic nerve diseases sharing an accelerated
degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) that, if untreated, leads to progressive
and irreversible loss of visual function. Worldwide, glaucoma is the second leading
cause of blindness. Of the many types of glaucoma, primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is
probably the most common one in Western countries. Probably less than half of all people who
have the disease are aware of it.


Aim. To determine the processes of formation and implementation of sustainable development goals in Russian regions.Tasks. To consider the strategy of sustainable development in the Russian Federation (RF); to analyze the state of Russian regions based on the principles of environmental, social and corporate governance; to identify the centers of implementation of sustainable development goals in Russian regions; to develop the processes of formation and implementation of sustainable development goals in Russian regions.Methods. The research is based on the dialectical method of cognition. Using the abstract-logical method, theoretical generalization and the formation of conclusions are provided; using system and comparative approaches, as well as using statistical data, the elements of the concept of formation and implementation of sustainable development goals at the regional level are investigated. The graphic method was applied to reflect analytical information and separate processes.Results. An assessment of the state of Russian regions based on the principles of environmental, social and corporate governance is given. The system of elements of the processes of formation and implementation of sustainable development at the regional level is presented. The conclusion about the economic development of the regions taking into account the implementation of the principles of environmental, social and corporate governance is made.Conclusions. Depending on the extent to which the region adheres to the goals of sustainable development, determine the position of the region as a subject of the Russian Federation, taking into account the application of the principles of environmental, social and corporate governance. Currently, the regions of the Russian Federation have different positions based on the priorities of sustainable development. The presented processes of formation and implementation of sustainable development goals in the region will contribute to its promotion at the environmental, social and corporate levels.


Gas-liquid absorption involves the transfer of one or more volatile organic compound species from gas phase into a liquid absorbent in a packed-bed column that contains one or more sections of packing materials. In this study, perlite from Lamba, Albay, Bicol was used in the production of packing material. The objectives of the study are to develop and characterize a packing material using a geopolymer derived from perlite and to design a packed column for the absorption of ammonia gas. The study determines the ideal perlite-Na2SiO3 concentration, packing factor, and L/D ratio. Three perlite-Na2SiO3 concentrations (45%, 60%, 75% wt. Na2SiO3) were subjected to various tests such as: thermal stability, chemical resistance, and compressive strength. The 45% wt. Na2SiO3 exhibited the least weight loss and the highest compressive strength making this geopolymerized perlite a potential packing material for gas absorption with a packing factor of 0.00175 ft-1. Based on the results, a packed column was designed for the absorption of ammonia gas with an L/D ratio of 2.5.


Because pollutants of coking enterprises were released in the form of the unorganized and in many places of the production process,so it is difficult to get a comprehensive and effective governance.Coke oven smoke and dust were eliminated through the combination of drawing out and recycling,coal transportation system used micron-scale dust suppression facilities.Enterprise's environment had greatly been improved.


Peripheral inflammation and nerve injury evoke pain behaviours in adult rodents mediated by sensitization, a process that involves the activation of microglia in the spinal cord. In neonates, however, peripheral inflammation, but not nerve injury, induces a lasting hyperalgesia. It is known that microglia does not activate after nerve injury in young pups; however, changes in microglia associated with inflammation in neonatal animals have not been studied.


The main objective of this article is to show the opportunities that can open up for African cities from the UNESCO MIL Cities approach. The methodology used was the theoretical-practical based on the bibliographical review and the narrative of the authors' experiences. MIL Cities is a UNESCO framework that speaks of the need to build or reform urban spaces so that they use new technologies but using them ethically and respectfully for vulnerable groups, transcending cultural barriers to communication and contributing to the objectives of the 2030 agenda. The article has three parts. The first part insists on the definition of the MIL Cities concept, its origin and the preliminary work that has been done to support its implementation. An exhaustive explanation is given of the 13 Indicators and 252 metrics of MIL Cities published by Chibás Ortiz and other authors. The creation of the UNESCO World Network of MIL Cities is discussed. The second part explains the role of metrics in the evaluation of MIL projects in towns and cities. This second part focuses also on the practical implementation strategies and cases deployed to spread the concept and its objectives. A particular emphasis is placed on the various webinars organized and their format though the whole world. This part summarizes actions and events taken to promote the initiative. The third part focuses on the Latin America & Africa MIL Cities initiative. In this last section, the article focuses on the launch of the project and on the objectives to be achieved to develop MIL Cities in Africa. It highlights the countries involved in the project launch activities, the promotional strategies to be deployed to disseminate the concept to all countries on the continent. It is concluded that the MIL Cities framework opens up new possibilities for the growth and development for African cities.


7023Background: MPAL is a rare subgroup of acute leukemia characterized by both myeloid and lymphoid phenotypes. Genetic basis of MPAL is not well understood. Methods: We studied 31 patients (pts) ...


Field measurements collected with surface drifters at New River Inlet (NC, USA) are used to characterize wave breaking and turbulence in the presence of currents. Shoreward wave evolution is affected by currents, and breaking is observed in deeper water with opposing currents (ebb tides) relative to the following currents (flood tides). Wave dissipation models are evaluated with observed cross-shore gradients in wave energy flux. Wave dissipation models that include the effects of currents are better correlated with the observations than the depth-only models. Turbulent dissipation rates measured in the breaking regions are used to evaluate two existing scaling models for the vertical structure and magnitude of turbulent dissipation relative to wave dissipation. Although both describe the rapid decay of turbulence beneath the surface, exponential vertical scaling by water depth is superior to power law vertical scaling by wave height.