Ultrafine ceramic powders of Sr0.05La0.95NbO4(LSNb) were prepared by the methods of low temperature combustion sol synthesis and the solid reactions at high temperature.By using X-ray diffraction(XRD),scanning electron microscope(SEM) and particle size analyzer,the phase,particle size and distribution of sizes for LSNb were analyzed;meanwhile,sintering properties of powders prepared by the two methods were also investigated.The results indicate that the powders prepared by the method of combustion at low temperature are smaller than 100 nm in diameter with a narrow size distribution,while the powders obtained by the solid reactions range from 0.5 μm to 1.0 μm in diameter,with near globular shape.The former powder can be sintered in air at 1 250℃ for 10 h,into dense ceramic pellets,while the latter powder can be sintered into dense ceramic up 1 400℃ for 10 h.In addition,both LSNb thin ceramic films exhibit some hydrogen permeation properties,and hydrogen permeation rates through both LSNb thin dense ceramic films at 900℃ are about 1.96×10-3 mL·cm-2·min-1and 1.67×10-3 mL·cm-2·min-1,respectively.


According to an influential objection, which Martha Nussbaum has powerfully restated, expressing anger in democratic public discourse is counterproductive from the standpoint of justice. To resist ...


Using in the Bohr Hamiltonian the approximations leading to the Bohr and Mot- telson description of wobbling motion in even nuclei, a W(5) model for wobbling bands, coexisting with a X(5) ground state band, is obtained. Separation of vari ables is achieved by assuming that the relevant potential has a sharp minimum at 70, which is the only parameter entering in the spectra and B(E2) transition rates (up to overall scale factors). B(E2) transition rates exhibit the features expected in the wobbling case.


Describes the training issues and concerns raised by the rapidly growing provision of online library services, including: online public access catalogues (OPACs); CD-ROM databases; full-text databases; online document delivery and access to the Internet and World Wide Web (in the near future), at King Abdulaziz University Library (KAUL), Saudi Arabia. Outlines the training programmes developed by the Central Library to meet the needs of users of these online services. Training priorities included: the provision of librarians with the necessary confidence and competence in using information technology (IT); and the training of library users (academic staff and students) to help them cope with the ever changing environment of the library. The Arabian Advance Systems company (agents for SilverPlatter, UMI, DIALOG and Bowker-Saur in Saudi Arabia) arranged a one week in-house training course, in CD-ROM and online searching, for the staff working in the CD-ROM information network department. Similar courses were run for branch librarians in various associated colleges. Other courses involved self-study, telephone and video based training. Concludes with notes on the campus user training programme, which is limited to academic staff, demonstrators, assistant lecturers and postgraduate students, and the evening advanced training programmes. The Library was satisfied with the success of their efforts to help users to find their way through the Library's IT facilities.


Based on TSMC 0. 18μm CMOS technology,a low-noise and high-gain mixer is designed.The mixer has a Gilbert cell configuration that employs low-noise transconductors designed using noisecancelling technique. An inductance is also inserted at the common source node of switching transistors to eliminate the parasitic capacitance on the basis of using the current-bleeding technique,so that a high gain and a lower noise can be achieved. The simulation results indicate that the mixer has a conversion gain of 14. 2dB,a double-sideband noise figure of 5. 9dB,a third-order intermodulation intercept point of- 3. 2dBm with a consumption of 8mA at 1. 8V when the local-oscillator( LO) frequency is 2. 395GHz and the radio-frequency frequency is 2. 4GHz.


order of the Planck length, lp = √ G~ c3 ≈ 10 −35 m. In the presence of this minimal observable length, the standard Heisenberg uncertainty principle attains an important modi cation leading to the so-called generalized uncertainty principle (GUP). As a result, corresponding commutation relations between position and momenta are generalized, too [1]. In recent years a lot of attention has been attracted to extend the fundamental problems of physics in the GUP framework [2 13]. Since in the GUP framework one cannot probe distances smaller than the minimum measurable length at a nite time, we expect it modies the Hamiltonian of physical systems, too (see [5] for instance). Recently, a GUP is proposed by Ali et al. which is consistent with the existence of the minimal measurable length and the maximal measurable momentum [14, 15]. The existence of the maximal particles' momentum is a consequence of doubly special relativity theories (see for instance [16]). These natural cuto s have their origin in the very nature of spacetime manifold at the Planck scale. In this work we will follow the procedure in Ref. [9], but we are going to address the e ect of minimal length and maximal momentum on the Ramsauer Townsend e ect.


1 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 Dear Editors: As principal investigators of an ongoing randomized study evaluating different ablation regimens for the Barrx 360 express RFA balloon catheter (360 Express; GI solutions Covidien/Medtronic, Sunnyvale, CA), we feel the responsibility to communicate our interim finding of an unexpected high rate of severe esophageal stenosis when using the 360 Express with a simplified 2 10 J/cm no clean ablation regimen. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been proven safe and highly effective for eradication of Barrett mucosa with dysplasia, and its use has been adapted in international guidelines. Recently, the 360 Express balloon catheter has become available, which features the ability to self-adjust to the inner esophageal diameter ensuring optimal tissue contact with the electrode during ablation, without the need of a prior sizing step. In our still ongoingEuropeanmulticenter randomized trial, we compare 3 ablation regimens for 360 Express treatment: the standard regimen (10 J/cm – clean – 10 J/cm), and 2 simplified regimens (2 10 J/cm without in between cleaning, and 1 10 J/cm). At an interim analysis, however, we found a 17% stenosis rate (4/24) in the 2 10 J/cm group, compared with no stenoses in the standard (0/25) and 1 10 J/cm (0/22) study groups. In the literature, stenosis after successive RFA treatments has been described in 0%-14% of cases, and a large European multicenter trial in 132 patients showed a total stenosis rate of 6%, requiring a median of 1-2 dilatations. The 17% stenosis rate found after 1 RFA session at our interim analysis is therefore higher than expected. More important, the severity of the encountered stenoses was more severe than we know from previous studies, with patients requiring >4 dilatation sessions and even incision therapy. Based on these interim findings and 108


The study of the paper aims to present a solar power plant performances and economic benefits of 16.28 kWp grid-tied solar PV systems under the real outdoor conditions of Ghardaïa, located in semi-arid area of the Algeria desert. The main goal of this study is to investigate the effectiveness, suitability, feasibility and reliably of these plants on the level of desert areas and under the influence of harsh conditions (desert environment) in the first part. In the second part, the contribution of solar PV plant to conventional networks in the arid and semi-arid environment to assess the rate of integration. Based on experimental measurement data, the paper also shows economic benefits of three photovoltaic plants. It was found that from the first January to last August 2019, the total produced energy by all PV arrays was 171.422 MWh which supplied to the internal grid and while, the consumed energy by the URAER unit was 159,094 kWh. Approximately 10, 95 % of the 159,094 MWh energy consumed in the whole year is provided from the generated PV solar energy that is 17,422 MWh. The total energy fed to the internal grid has grown from 27 MWh in 05/04/2018 to a maximum of 67.28 MWh recorded in 31/10/2019. The rate of integration of solar energy by all PV arrays in the internal network of the URAER varied between 6, 60% in January and 22, 96% in April. The integration of this renewable energy generation into the local grid in the URAER unit considered satisfactory over this period of operation. From the first January to last August 2019, the cost of electrical energy produced by solar plants is 2090,64 euro(277706,68 Algerian dinars) while the cost of energy consumed by the Applied Research Unit in renewable energies is 4772,82 euro(664853,826 Algerian dinars).


The electroless copper plating was studied in a bath consisting of sodium hypophosphite as reducing agent,2,2′-dipyridyl and K4Fe(CN)6 as additives.The effect of various additives on the deposits was systematically investigated in this paper.The electrochemical analysis shows that the oxidation potential was increased with the addition of 2,2′-dipyridyl and K4Fe(CN)6 additives,while the oxidation current was decreased.Furthermore,the deposits were characterized by means of scanning electron microscope(SEM),energy dispersive spectroscopy(EDS),X-ray diffraction(XRD) and four-probe method.Compared with single additive,the compound additive(10 mg/L 2,2′-dipyridyl and 4 mg/L K4Fe(CN)6) brings about higher purity of deposit(w(Cu)=96.27 %),and brighter and more compact deposit surface.In addition,the surface resistivity of the deposits was as low as 0.022 9 μΩ·m.


Facing the new situation and needs of experimental teaching in our country,it is more and more urgent to improve the undergraduate experiment teaching.The content and practice of the experiment teaching of the fundamental biochemistry was introduced.According to biochemistry experimental characteristics,the experimental teaching content and methods were reformed.And cultivating students′practical and innovate ability and scientific thinking was emphasized based on the need skills with fundamental and comprehensive experiments.Finally students′experimental technique and quality was also stressed.It explored a new method that fosters the high quality,comprehensive and innovating person.


Inhalation of dust from swine confinement buildings induces airway inflammation with an increase in both inflammatory cell numbers and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in the lungs. It is not known whether anti‐asthma drugs, which influence airway inflammation in asthma, also influence the airway reaction to inhaled organic dust. In the present study we examined the effects of a ß2‐agonist (salmeterol) and an inhaled steroid (fluticasone) on the swine dust‐induced cell and cytokine content of the lower airways, and cytokine release in cultured alveolar macrophages. Healthy volunteers were pretreated with inhaled salmeterol (n = 8), fluticasone propionate (n = 8) or placebo (n = 8) for about 2 weeks and exposed to dust in a pig house. Bronchoalveolar lavage was performed both before medication and after dust exposure. Cell differential counts and cytokine analyses in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were examined. Alveolar macrophages were cultured and cytokine release was studied, both in unstimulated cells and after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. Unstimulated alveolar macrophages from swine dust‐exposed individuals released less IL‐6, IL‐8 and tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) after, than before, exposure (P < 0·01). Medication did not influence basal cytokine production. Fluticasone inhibited LPS‐induced IL‐6 and IL‐8 release (P < 0·05). There was no significant difference between the groups . There was a large and significant increase (P < 0·05) in alveolar macrophage, granulocyte, lymphocyte numbers, and IL‐6 and TNF‐α content in BALF in all three groups following dust exposure, with no significant difference between the groups. These findings suggest that drugs which are known to influence and control airway inflammation in asthma do not have major effects on airway inflammation induced by the inhalation of organic dust.


Telecommunication Management Network (TMN) is a new stage during the development of net management Based on the management information database comprising information model, object-orented technology is the main means used in the development of TMN So it is very important that how to create management information database which satisfies the TMN development The authors research it preliminary


This paper presents results of a carried out research in the field of scanning precision of contactless optical 3D scanners. Results stated in this paper bring great benefits to practice, since it demonstrates the quality and limits of measuring by means of contactless optical systems in real conditions and therefore its possible use in the field of inspecting the dimensional and shape precision of industrial products.A measurement etalon of various shapes and sizes was designed and manufactured for the purpose of this analysis. The nominal dimensions of the etalon were set by measuring of the coordinate measuring machine and these real values were compared to the model obtained by optical digitisation of Atos II and RevScan. Based on the evaluation of results, scanner measurement precision diagrams were drawn according to the studied aspects, e.g. dependence on the shape of the measured element and its nominal size. Another essential part of the research was determining the ability of 3D scanners to capture detailed parts of the model and assessing the scanning limits for each of the optical systems.


Since the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century the Muslims has been continuously present on the territory of today's Croatia. The number of Muslims lived in the area historically known as Kingdom of Croatia and Slavonia within the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy until 1918. However, Croatian ties with the Islamic world go further back in the past and can be followed through three periods: the pre-Ottoman period, the Ottoman period which left a significant mark in the national, religious, cultural and political history and played a significant part in the creation of the modern-day Croatia. The last period began with the Austro-Hungarian occupation of Bosna and Herzegovina. Starting with that period, the presence of the Muslims on the territory of Croatia has been unbroken. According to the Croatian-Hungarian Compromise of 1868 which regulated the position of Croatia within the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, Croatia had the autonomy in religious matters.Accordingly, the Croatian Parliament passed acts regulating the position of religious communities and their members.After the recognition of Islam in Austria and Hungary, the legal position of Islam was finally regulated in Croatia by the Act on the Recognition of Islam in the Kingdom of Croatia and Slavonia, which came into force upon the King's sanction, on 27th April 1916. Recognition of Islam meant that Muslims were entitled to the same rights as other Croatian citizens. This was a legal base for their inclusion in Croatian society and becoming its full member since there was no more obstacle that prevented Muslims from settling permanently and gaining citizenship.


We examine the effect of restructuring quality on chief executive officer (CEO) compensation. Extending prior research, we examine not only cash compensation, but also other components of the compensation package, as well as the mix of compensation. Incorporating both cash and non-cash compensation in our analysis provides a more complete analysis, as it allows us to examine if decreases in one form of compensation are offset by increases elsewhere in the compensation package. Indeed we find this exact result. That is, while our primary results suggest that total CEO compensation is unaffected by the restructuring, we find, especially for lower quality restructurings, that there is a decrease in bonus compensation offset by an increase in equity compensation. Sensitivity analysis shows that our results are robust to alternate variable definitions and model specifications. In particular, we find that our results are similar whether we use an ex-ante measure of restructuring quality, i.e., cumulative abnormal returns measured at first public disclosure of restructuring, or an ex-post measure of restructuring quality, i.e., unexpected cash flow from operations three years after the restructuring.


It is well known that prior local irradiation inhibits the ability of larval salamanders to regenerate an amputated limb, and that implantation of various non-irradiated tissues at the site of amputation restores this ability. Neither wounds in the irradiated region, nor wounds in the non-irradiated shoulder, promote regeneration. A superficial slit in the skin stretching from non-irradiated tissue to the irradiated site of amputation, however, restores the ability to regenerate. It is presumed that non-irradiated cells migrate down the slit during wound-healing and are thus present at the site of amputation and stimulate regeneration.

Transection of the nerve roots following local irradiation of the limb permits a regrowth of non-irradiated axons into the irradiated limb. Such limbs recover both sensory and motor co-ordination and the ability to regenerate. Non-irradiated sections of nervous tracts (axons, Schwann cells and connective tissue sheaths) also promote regeneration when transplanted into irradiated limbs.

Since a nerve supply is almost always needed for limb regeneration, yet an irradiated nerve is sufficient for this purpose, no special sensitivity of nerves to x-rays is implied by these experiments. The normal function, regrowth and trophic effects of axons appear to be unimpaired by exposing the entire neuron to doses of irradiation that inhibit limb regeneration.


In order to get the knowledge of the importance of the sections in College English Test Band 4( CET-4),we made the attributes reduction and calculated the attributes importance on fifty samples according to the rough set theory. The results show that the reading section has the largest importance degree,it is even as large as the twice of the importance of the listening section and the writing and translation section,while the latter two sections have nearly equal importance. This research is beneficial to the English teaching in college,and is also a valuable reference in the further reform of the CET- 4.


The purpose of this study to describe the effect of the use of cooperative learning model Bamboo Dancing on learning outcomes writing text exposition seventh grade students of SMPN 4 Padang Panjang. The theory used in this study as follows. First, writing skills Text exposition. Second, cooperative learning model Bamboo Dancing.Jenis This study was a quantitative research with experimental method. The research was one group pretest and posttest design. Total population of 137 students with a sample of 24 students. The sample in this research is class VII. 4 SMPN 4 Padang Panajng determined using purposive sampling technique. In this research there are two variables, namely (1) the writing skills of students Subtitles exposition before using cooperative learning model Bamboo Dancing, and (2) the writing skills of students after the text exposition cooperative learning model Bamboo Dancing. Instruments used in this research is to test the performance. This research data is the writing skills test score results Subtitles exposition seventh grade students of SMPN 4 Padang Panjang before and after using cooperative learning model Bamboo Dancing. The results of this study are based on the t-test, the alternative hypothesis (H_1) received the 95% significance level and degrees of freedom (df) = (N_1 + n_2) -2 because thitungg t table (1.17g 1.98). In other words, the writing skills Text exposition seventh grade students of SMPN 4 Padang Panjang after using cooperative learning model is better than the Dancing Bamboo writing skills Text exposition seventh grade students of SMPN 4 Padang Panjang before using cooperative learning model Bamboo Dancing.


The Bayesian decision theory is neo-Bernoullian in that it proves, by way of a consistency derivation, that Bernoulli's utility function is the only appropriate function by which to translate, for a given initial wealth, gains and losses to their corresponding utilities. But the Bayesian decision theory deviates from Bernoulli's original expected utility theory in that it offers up an alternative for the traditional criterion of choice of expectation value maximization, as it proposes to choose that decision which has associated with it the utility probability distribution which maximizes the mean of the expectation value and the lower and upper confidence bounds.


A lot of eyebrows were raised last year when, in the wake of the September 11 attacks, Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson proclaimed at a press conference that the United States was well prepared to handle "any contingency, any consequence that develops for any kind of bioterrorism attack." Few groups were more surprised at this assurance of US readiness than the public health community. The Rodney Dangerfield of American health care, the public health system has rarely gotten the respect it deserves. After September 11, 2001, that attitude shifted. Regardless of the motivation, public health leaders are hoping the newfound respect will translate into meaningful fiscal support for an infrastructure that has been neglected far too long. Policymakers may have little choice. As Americans quickly learned after September 11, local public health departments are the first line of defense when the United States is faced with a bioterrorist attack. Nevertheless, two thirds of local public health agencies say their communities are not fully prepared for a bioterrorist attack. Nearly a quarter of these agencies told the National Association of County and City Health Officials that they have no response plan for bioterrorism, and only 20% have a comprehensive plan in place. The National Association of County and City Health Officials findings make clear that the gap in public health readiness is wide and varied, says Fitzhugh Mullan, MD, a professor of public health and pediatrics at George Washington University in Washington, DC (oral communication, 2001). Mullan, a former US Assistant Surgeon General who once was New Mexico's Secretary of Health, says it is important to keep in mind that many of the nation's 3,000 public health departments do not even have round-the-clock on-line capabilities. Some 10% do not have Internet/ e-mail access. Mohammad Akhter, MD, executive director of the American Public Health Association (APHA), says it was fortunate that the bioterrorist attacks initially occurred in larger cities with strong public health systems (oral communication, 2001). New York City and Washington, DC, have dealt with deadly threats such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and the West Nile virus. They have round-the-clock staff, top-notch communication abilities, and well-trained medical personnel. Those conditions are not comparable in smaller communities and rural areas, which Akhter says typically have anemic health departments that are poorly staffed and equipped (oral communication, 2001). With the nation's attention focused on public health, APHA and other public health groups are urging the Bush administration and Congress to cement gaps exposed by the anthrax incidents. In late October, APHA asked federal policymakers to provide $10 billion over the next 5 years to help public health departments prepare for and respond to bioterrorism. Akhter points out that, in the month


A potential area of difficulty for Multi-Objective Optimisation of industrial problems is a class of problems where the majority of the objective space violates blackbox constraints. The difficult arises because potential solutions that violate blackbox constraints provide no information beyond their infeasibility. They provide neither meaningful information about their objective values nor about the degree to which the constraint is violated (or even in some cases which constraint is violated). This means that they do not help to find valid solutions (except by elimination) which, in turn, reduces the early stages of optimisation to effective guesswork until some feasible solutions are found. In this work, we attempt to reduce this problem by using a Decision Tree to identify and repair infeasible solutions by learning the underlying constraints on each parameter. We propose three potential Pre-Repair Methods and compare them on a modified case study of an airfoil lift/drag optimisation problem. Note that no optimisation was done; instead the goal was to decide if the repair methodologies were suitable in the problem space. We used two baselines: not using a Decision Tree, and only using a Decision Tree to identify potentially infeasible solutions for complete regeneration. All three of our proposed methods outperformed the baselines at a statistically significant level of confidence of 0.001.


The development of a low-noise input modular amplifier for L-band is presented. The module consists of a two-circuit parametric amplifier and a quasi-optical pumping oscillator. At 60-65 GHz, an amplification factor of 17 dB has been obtained at the half power level and a bandwidth of 1.2 GHz. The noise temperature is no more than 550 K when the quasi-optical IMPATT-diode oscillator is used as a pumping source.


A method is proposed for predicting the backwater effect due to a single, submerged spur dike located within an open channel flow. A theoretical analysis based on the momentum principle relates the backwater effect to the drag force exerted by the spur dike on the flow. Experimental data obtained in laboratory flumes having subcritical flow conditions throughout the flow field have been used in developing predictive relationships for the spur dike drag coefficient, which is found to be strongly correlated to the blockage created by the spur dike within the flow cross section. The predictive relationships provide a means of obtaining a first-level estimate of the backwater effect due to a single, submerged spur dike in an open channel flow.


The work described in this document contains the development of a touch screen controlled digital photo camera using the DE2-115 board from Terasic. The system allows photo capturing with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels and is able to save the captured images on diverse type of memories, like Flash memory or an SD card. The software that controls the touch screen and memory management for image capturing runs on a NIOS II processor from Altera, implemented on the FPGA. The rest of the Hardware uses either IPs (Intellectual Properties) inside Altera ́s University Program or generic IPs provided by Altera.


Article history: Received October 28, 2013 Received in revised format 25 November 2013 Accepted 19 January 2014 Available online January 21 2014 This paper presents an empirical investigation on the effects of empowering organizational capabilities on new product-development efficiency improvement and the proposed study is applied in one of Iranian food producers in city of Tehran, Iran. The study considers seven components including technological capabilities, marketing mix capabilities, capabilities for communication with customers, quality of new products, fast entry to market capabilities, customer satisfaction and economic success. The study designs a questionnaire in Likert scale and distributes it among 384 randomly selected people who regularly use different food products. Cronbach alphas for all components of the survey are within acceptable limits and it confirms the overall questionnaire in terms of various questions. The study has used t-student test as well as structural equation modeling to examine different hypotheses of the survey.


This paper presents design of an 8-bit 1.8V fully segmented digital to analog converter (DAC) using 180nm CMOS technology. DAC is an essential part of digital signal processor. Digital to analog converter is employed in processing of digital signals and providing analog output in the form of current or voltage for corresponding binary input. The differential non linearity of a DAC shows variation in output corresponding to 1LSB change at input that is accuracy of data conversion. To achieve low non linearity or more accurate data conversion a DAC is designed with unary coding or a fully segmented digital to analog converter with current steering technique. The INL and DNL achieved in this research work are 0.145LSB and 0.013LSB respectively. The power consumption is simulated as 99.67mW.


This paper is dedicated to the asymptotic stability and synchronization for a type of fractional complex-valued inertial neural network by developing a direct analysis method. First, a new fractional differential inequality is presented for nonnegative functions, which provides an effective tool for the convergence analysis of fractional-order systems. Moreover, instead of the previous separation analysis for complex-valued neural networks, a class of Lyapunov functions composed of the complex-valued states and their fractional derivatives is constructed, and some compact stability criteria are derived. In synchronization analysis, unlike the existing control schemes for reduced-order subsystems, some feedback and adaptive control schemes, formed by the linear part and the fractional derivative part, are directly designed for the response fractional inertial neural networks, and some synchronization conditions are derived using the established fractional inequality. Finally, the theoretical analysis is supported via two numerical examples.


The study was conducted to investigate some factors affecting the starch extraction from jackfruit seeds (JS), including: Jackfruit seed drying temperature, extraction time and ratio of water to jackfruit seed flour (JSF). The JS were dried at various temperatures (50, 60 and 70oC) before grinding into flour. Starch was extracted in 4 levels of time (5, 6, 7 and 8 hours) interacted with 4 ratios of water to JSF (10, 15, 20 and 25 times, v/w). The efficiency of the extraction process was evaluated through the yield and the physicochemical properties of JSS, such as starch content, the color (L value and browning index - BI), water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI) and swelling power (SP); the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the average particle diameter (APD). The drying temperature of 60oC is considered suitable for obtaining good flour for performing starch extraction. Starch extraction from the JSF was carried out with the ratio of water to JSF of 15 times (v/w) for 6 hours at ambient temperature. The yield was 44.96?0.29%; the starch content was 92.06?0.48%. The JSS exhibited the values of WAI, WSI and SP in range of from other starches. The APD of JSS is 6.90–8.50 µm and is classified as small granules. All physicochemical properties as well as the APD of JSS were interrelated. These results showed that the extraction is high yield. The extracted JSS has high starch content and suitable physicochemical properties. When purified effectively, it has the potential to become food or effective complementary ingredients in the development of functional food products.


Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) is a bacterium that has an ability to inhibit a pathogenic bacteria growth, including isolates 18A. The aim of this study is to determine the species of LAB isolates 18A by conventional tests and API 50 CH test. This study was a descriptive observational study, with lactic acid bacteria isolates 18A were obtained from bali cattle's colon as an object. LAB isolates 18A were re-cultured on MRS media, catalase test, and Gram staining. Identification test were performed by CO2 production test, growth in the presence of 15% NaCl, growth at 10°C, and growth at pH 9.6. Confirmation test were performed using API 50 CH (Standard Analytical Profile Index). The results indicated that LAB isolate 18A were able to grow well on MRS broth media, catalase-negative, Gram-positive, and spherical-chain in shape. Identification test revealed that the bacteria is homofermentative, were able to grow at 10°C, and do not grow at pH 9.6. Fermentation test using API 50 CH showed that LAB isolates 18A were able to degrade 15 sugar components, consist of no: 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 , 31, and 39. Based on conventional identification results, it can be concluded that BAL isolates 18A is a Lactococcus. In addition, the result of API 50 CHL test showed that BAL isolates 18A is a Lactococcus lactis ssp lactis 1.


The objective of the combined and intermodal transport is to connect by advanced technologies two or more traffic subsystems (road, rail, sea and river) into a continuous logistic transport chain that emphasises the systemic advantages and the power of single traffic branches, and enables their rational utilization. A component of intermodal transport is also Ro-La technology with specialized terminals that are studied in this paper regarding their technical and technological parameters. The integration of Croatia into the modern traffic flows of goods in Europe and the world is not possible unless advanced technologies of combined transport are implemented, i.e. unless adequate infrastructure and mobile means for combined transport are provided. Combined traffic enables integration into new requirements of international trade and world market, as well as integrity of production and transportation.


This paper concerns the prediction of air pollution. In particular, a new prediction method making use of a two-category pattern classifier is proposed. Further, the proposed method is applied to the prediction of SO2 density and dust density in Japan.


3G telecommunication systems encompass a high-speed access network, which can provide high bit-rate bearer services for roaming users, as well as intelligent allocation of backbone network resources for end-to-end QoS maintenance. Emerging applications put extra demand for these features, which technologies such as HIPERLAN/2 (H/2) [1] are called to support. The ETSI BRAN [2] project has specified the basic mechanism for a generic wireless LAN bearer service that can accommodate a set of network layers (e.g. ATM, IP). We propose a mechanism on how to enhance the QoS capability handling of H/2 bearer for IP services, as well as provide the means to interconnect to oncoming 3G core networks.


Laser welding of copper is gaining more and more importance to create electrical contacts due to the high temperature resistance and high achievable mechanical loads. However, laser welding of copper in the past was always associated with low process stability. By using high brightness fiber laser sources, small laser spots can be generated which allows keyhole-based deep penetration welding even in copper with high quality. Unfortunately, a small spot size and keyhole welding lead to a small connection area between the two joining partners. To avoid this, spatial power modulation—a linear feed with superposed circular motion—has been introduced. By using an additional parameter, oscillation frequency, and amplitude, in conjunction with spatial power modulation, we can increase not only the connection area but also the stability of the laser welding process and quality characteristics of the welds. In addition to the conformity of the weld depth, the surface roughness of the weld is a measure of the quality. Especially in interconnection of lithium ion cells and high power electronics, the consistency of the weld depth influences the connection area, which is essential for the current-carrying capacity. The quantity of weld defects and irregularities has a direct impact on the surface roughness of the weld. This paper presents recent results on the influence of the spatial power modulation on quality characteristics during laser microwelding by analyzing the weld via three-dimensional longitudinal cross sections and via laser measuring of the weld surface. Experimental investigations are supplemented by finite element simulations which enable a detailed analysis of the influence of the laser scanning strategy on the geometry of the fusion zone.Laser welding of copper is gaining more and more importance to create electrical contacts due to the high temperature resistance and high achievable mechanical loads. However, laser welding of copper in the past was always associated with low process stability. By using high brightness fiber laser sources, small laser spots can be generated which allows keyhole-based deep penetration welding even in copper with high quality. Unfortunately, a small spot size and keyhole welding lead to a small connection area between the two joining partners. To avoid this, spatial power modulation—a linear feed with superposed circular motion—has been introduced. By using an additional parameter, oscillation frequency, and amplitude, in conjunction with spatial power modulation, we can increase not only the connection area but also the stability of the laser welding process and quality characteristics of the welds. In addition to the conformity of the weld depth, the surface roughness of the weld is a measure of the quali...


In order to examine the fundamental boundary lubrication properties of ceramics, reciprocating friction experiments of silicon based ceramics such as silicon carbide and silicon nitride were conducted with trialkyl phosphites and other oil additives. When ceramics were slid against ceramics, trialkyl phosphites with long carbon chains reduced the friction of silicon nitride markedly; the friction coefficients decreased with an increase in the carbon chain length. Other oil additives, however, did not greatly affect the friction


With the availability of low-cost, mass-market dual-frequency GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receivers, standalone processing methods such as Precise Point Positioning (PPP) are no longer restricted to geodetic-grade GNSS equipment only. However, with cheaper equipment, data quality is expected to degrade. This same principle also affects low-cost GNSS antennas, which usually suffer from poorer multipath mitigation and higher antenna noise compared to their geodetic-grade counterparts. This work assesses the quality of a particular piece of low-cost GNSS equipment for real-time PPP and high-rate dynamic monitoring applications, such as strong-motion seismology. We assembled the u-blox ZED-F9P chip in a small and light-weight data logger. With observational data from static experiments—which are processed under kinematic conditions—we assess the precision and stability of the displacement estimates. We tested the impact of different multi-band antenna types, including geodetic medium-grade helical-type (JAVAD GrAnt-G3T), as well as a low-cost helical (Ardusimple AS-ANT2B-CAL) and a patch-type (u-blox ANN-MB) antenna. Besides static tests for the assessment of displacement precision, strong-motion dynamic ground movements are simulated with a robot arm. For cross-validation, we collected measurements with a JAVAD SIGMA G3T geodetic-grade receiver. In terms of precision, we cross-compare the results of three different dual-frequency, real-time PPP solutions: (1) an ambiguity-float solution using the Centre National d'Études Spatiales (CNES) open-source software, (2) an ambiguity-float and an AR (ambiguity-resolved) solution using the raPPPid software from TU Vienna, and (3) and a PPP-RTK solution using the u-blox PointPerfect positioning service. We show that, even with low-cost GNSS equipment, it is possible to obtain a precision of one centimeter. We conclude that these devices provide an excellent basis for the densification of existing GNSS monitoring networks, as needed for strong-motion seismology and earthquake-early-warning.


Currently, the transformations occurring in media systems (especially those relating to technologies, the Internet and social networks) have led to a renewed interest in analysing the conditions that potentially foster selective exposure and, specifically, politically-oriented selection. As a result, that theory is now among the 21st century's top eight most used approaches (Bryant & Miron, 2004, p. 696). This thematic issue addresses some of the key questions about selective exposure and associated phenomena by means of two comment articles and three research articles.


Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) is an effective innovation for fifth-generation and forthcoming wireless technology. NOMA aims to encounter the challenges of low latency, high accuracy, large availability, and peak performance. In this paper, the performance mechanisms of NOMA are discussed as compared to Orthogonal Multiple Access (OMA), and also for different user (far and near) scenarios. The techniques such as Heterogeneous Network (HetNet), Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC), and other 5G evolving technologies are highlighted for improved performance in the NOMA system. The simulation results are carried out to analyze the achievable capacity of OMA and NOMA, BER analysis, and sum-rate analysis of NOMA systems over Rayleigh and Rician fading channels. The simulation results reveal that the Rician fading channels have better performance than Rayleigh fading channels. This article also discusses potential research challenges as well as addressing current and future issues in NOMA.


Shock is accompanied by an increase in mucosal intestinal permeability, allowing digestive enzymes from the lumen to enter the intestinal wall. Incubating individual pancreatic proteases or homogenates of the luminal content with intestinal homogenates results in the generation of cytotoxic activity. Our goal is to characterize the factors in these intestinal digests that cause cytotoxicity. We hypothesize that in intestinal homogenates, lipases digest lipids into cytotoxic mediators [free fatty acids, etc.], which are adsorbed by lipid‐binding proteins like albumin. Adding proteases would digest the proteins, releasing the mediators. Intestinal homogenates that had been exposed to chymotrypsin, the luminal content homogenate, or PBS were separated into hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and precipitated fractions using chloroform/methanol extraction. These fractions were tested for cytotoxicity. The hydrophilic and precipitated fractions caused little cell death, but the hydrophobic fractions from both digested and undigested intestinal homogenates caused significant cell death. A recombination of the hydrophilic and precipitated fractions with the hydrophobic fraction reduced cytotoxicity compared to hydrophobic fraction alone. We also show intestinal homogenates contain lipase activity and cell death from intestinal homogenate exposed to luminal homogenate is prevented by adding albumin. These results suggest that lipid‐binding proteins may control lipid cytotoxicity, but during shock these protective proteins may be destroyed.


Large numbers of tors are found on the extensive Precambrian crystalline rocks of Southern Africa. This paper describes the distribution, nature and possible origin of the tors in western Swaziland. Using aerial photographs and LANDSAT imagery 2171 tors in an area of 8700 km2 were identified and mapped. The role of rock type and fracture patterns is seen to influence tor distribution and density. It is suggested that large scale geological structures and the texture of the crystalline rocks are the principal determinants of tor location and form in Swaziland.


Rats were implanted subcutaneously with silastic capsules containing 10 mg 17-β-estradiol. After 30, 60 and 120 days, their pituitary weights and plasma PRL levels were found to increase significantly. The administration of β-estradiol also produced a marked rise of PRL mRNA concentrations in the rat total RNA, but the sharper rise of serum PRL levels indicates that estradiol not only promotes transcription of prolactin gene, but also improves the efficiency of translation of the transcription product.


This paper reviews practicing course that China three generations le aders on the lead of Mao Ze-dong,Deng Xiao-ping and Jiang Ze-min use capitali sm to develop socialism, aim is to further solve the problem in theory and pract ice that how effective use capitalism to serve socialistic construction cause.


This study is part of an ongoing investigation into the ways in which individual differences may interact with game characteristics to impact performance and subjective trust outcomes within virtual environments. In this study, researchers investigated the impact of team leader agency on trust and performance. Forty college students were told they were working alongside a computer-programmed team leader or a human team leader who provided instructions for twelve tasks in a first-person shooter game, Arma 3™. Results indicate that team leader agency may not impact subjective trust using this type of experimental manipulation, but that intrinsic motivation is related to trust outcomes. Results also indicate differences in the number of times participants reviewed the team leader's task instructions as a function of agency. Implications for future research include measuring trust behaviorally and investigating whether game-based intrinsic motivation may mediate the relation between trust and performance.


The present invention provides a boost from zero test system, comprising: a combination of optical transducer, and a combiner PC, a combination of optical transducer voltage and current measured simultaneously acquired pressure side of the apparatus, and then converted into a voltage the secondary-side voltage and current into the secondary current by combining the upper computer to upload, the host computer via the secondary voltage is reduced to the pressure side voltage apparatus under test, the measured secondary current is reduced to the pressing device side of the current, the measurements of the devices to achieve pressure-side voltage and current. Due to the combination of optical transducer having a high voltage or high current into a low voltage, low current in proportion to the characteristics, therefore, can meet a variety of voltage levels from zero boosting test apparatus test requirements, thereby solving the prior art the problem.


We present our latest results on GeSn laser technologies, including high-quality GeSn-on-insulator substrates and improved microdisk and nanobeam GeSn lasers.


SAN FRANCISCO–Maintenance therapy with erlotinib (Tarceva) in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer following chemotherapy provided a statistically significant improvement in survival, according to results from the SATURN trial.


High‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) operating at 20 MHz is new and potentially applicable to ablative tattoo removal. The method was documented safe and rational in preclinical testing.


IntroductionTotal knee arthroplasty is a painful operation. Peri-articular local anesthetic injections reduce post-operative pain and assist recovery. It is inconclusive whether intra-operative injections of peri-articular corticosteroids are of benefit. Clinical Question: In patients with osteoarthritis who are undergoing TKA, does the addition of high or low dose corticosteroid to peri-articular injections of local anesthetic and adrenaline improve post-operative pain and range of motion?MethodsA prospective, randomized, double-blinded study was undertaken to assess the efficacy of adding peri-articular corticosteroids to intra-operative, peri-articular high volume local anaesthetic in post-operative pain management following TKA. 127 patients were randomised into three groups receiving local anaesthetic alone (control) or either low dose (40 mg) or high dose (80 mg) peri-articular corticosteroid plus local anaesthetic. Primary outcomes included ROM and visual analog pain scores (VAS). Pain was defined ...


This letter presents a discrete-time Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy observer design approach for a class of nonlinear systems. Instead of including all the nonlinear terms in the membership functions, some of them are kept as nonlinear consequents, and they need to fulfill a global Lipschitz condition. The form considered permits nonlinear consequents that depend on nonscalar inputs. The design conditions are defined in terms of linear matrix inequalities, and they are less restrictive than previous conditions from the literature. Two numerical examples highlight the advantages obtained.


The lactate dehydrogenase (EC 18.104.22.168, LDH) A₄ isozyme in skeletal muscle of mandrin fish (Siniperca scherzeri) was successfully purified by affinity chromatography and ultrafiltration. The molecular weight of the purified LDH A4 isozyme was 140.4 kDa and its isoelectric point (pI) was 7.0. Optimal pH for enzymatic reaction was 7.5. K m PYR and V max value of the purified LDH A4 isozyme were 4.86×10 -5 M and 13.31 mM/min using pyruvate as a substrate, respectively. These kinetic properties of the purified LDH A₄ isozyme supported the fact that the mandrin fish was a warm-adapted species. The antibody against the purified LDH A₄ isozyme may be used in the metabolic physiological studies of ectothermic vertebrates and in the diagnosis of several human diseases.


The study of ion dissolution from metal surfaces has a long-standing history, wherein the gradual dissolution of solute atoms with increasing electrode potential, leading to their existence as ions in the electrolyte with integer charges, is well-known. However, our present work reveals a more intricate and nuanced physical perspective based on comprehensive first-principles/continuum calculations. We investigate the dissolution and deposition processes of 22 metal elements across a range of applied electrode potentials, unveiling diverse dissolution models. By analyzing the energy profiles and valence states of solute atoms as a function of the distance between the solute atom and metal surface, we identify three distinct dissolution models for different metals. Firstly, solute atoms exhibit an integer valence state following an integer-valence jump, aligning with classical understandings. Secondly, solute atoms attain an eventual integer valence, yet their valence state increases in a non-integer manner during dissolution. Lastly, we observe solute atoms exhibiting a non-integer valence state, challenging classical understandings. Furthermore, we propose a theoretical criterion for determining the selection of ion valence during electrode dissolution under applied potential. These findings not only contribute to a deeper understanding of the dissolution process but also offer valuable insights into the complex dynamics governing metal ion dissolution at the atomic level. Such knowledge has the potential to advance the design of more efficient electrochemical systems and open new avenues for controlling dissolution processes in various applications.


During the system simulation of a centrifugal chiller, the influence of operating and constructional characteristics on system performance should be taken into account. The simulating model is a two-stage centrifugal chiller using a water-cooled condenser and R-11 as refrigerant. A microcomputer system simulation program containing detailed characteristics was developed. Mathematical equations concerning heat transfer at the evaporator and condenser were introduced, and the evaporating and condensing temperatures can be calculated. Various parameters that affect the overall heat transfer coefficient were analyzed. Calculated results of the system simulation were verified against the actual measured results


Aimed at the present condition of aggravation in the competition of clothes industry and the unceasing increase on the requirement of customer individuation,firstly,using the video camera device to take pictures on human body while rotating at different angles in a definite position and then constituted the non-contact automatic measuring scheme for the computer to collect dimension data of human body.And go a step further,by means of researching on the designing method of auxiliary rotary platform for the standing of plastic model,on the control methods of stepping motor and shooting device based on single chip computer and on the series communication techniques and image transmission techniques between single chip computer and upper computer etc.,the corresponding prototype of measuring system was developed.It was indicated by means of actual measurement on dimensions of human body of the plastic model that this system could rather quickly and accurately provide human body dimensions of the being shoot images.


The presence or absence of photographs in museums of dead and injured civilians, victims of aerial bombing by both Allies and the Axis powers during the Second World War, reflect both historical conventions and current political concerns, telling us as much about national identity today as they do about events in this period. Drawing on case studies in Germany, England and Scotland, this paper will consider how and why images of death (and indeed the incidents that brought them about in some cases), are excised from some museums but foregrounded in others. In so doing it will consider such photographs within the context of the overarching display techniques of individual museums, in particular the text that accompanies them, and set these against the background of the development of historical narratives of bombing campaigns in the Second World War, including contemporary official attitudes to these events. At the same time it will reflect on the ethics of such exhibits and the ways in which photographs of death during wartime have been used in the past. This is not, however, a chapter about the rights or wrongs of strategic bombing of civilians during the Second World War, a topic which has been covered in detail elsewhere, (for example, Grayling 2007), but more about how images of civilian deaths during bombing raids are used or avoided in the twenty first century to promote national identity. [Opening paragraph]


Significance The search for extraterrestrial life is one of the most exciting frontiers in present-day astronomy. Recently, the TRAPPIST-1 star was discovered to host seven rocky planets with masses and radii similar to those of the Earth, of which at least three of them may be capable of supporting life. Our paper addresses the possibility that life on one of these planets can spread to others through the transfer of rocky material. We conclude that this process has a high probability of being operational, implying that this planetary system may possess multiple life-bearing planets. Thus, our work has profound theoretical and observational consequences for future studies of the TRAPPIST-1 system and the likelihood of life in our galaxy. We present a simple model for estimating the probability of interplanetary panspermia in the recently discovered system of seven planets orbiting the ultracool dwarf star TRAPPIST-1 and find that panspermia is potentially orders of magnitude more likely to occur in the TRAPPIST-1 system compared with the Earth-to-Mars case. As a consequence, we argue that the probability of abiogenesis is enhanced on the TRAPPIST-1 planets compared with the solar system. By adopting models from theoretical ecology, we show that the number of species transferred and the number of life-bearing planets are also likely to be higher because of the increased rates of immigration. We propose observational metrics for evaluating whether life was initiated by panspermia on multiple planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system. These results are also applicable to habitable exoplanets and exomoons in other planetary systems.


Based on observational data from 70 hydrological stations in the North Caucasus an evaluation of present values of mean annual runoff, minimum monthly winter and summer runoff was carried out. Series of maps was drawn. Significant changes in mean annual. minimum monthly and maximum runoff during last decades have been revealed in the North Caucasus. A rise in both amount of water availability and potential natural hazard is characteristic of the most of the North Caucasus that is considered to be caused by recent climate change. Mean annual runoff during 1978-2010 increased compared to 1945-1977 by 5-30 % in the foothills and by 30-70% in the plain area. An increase in winter minimum monthly runoff is as well most intensive in the plain part of study area (>100%). Within the foothills it amounts to 50-100%. In mountainous area long-term oscillation of winter minimum monthly discharge strongly depends on local factors, such as geological structure. The rate of the increase in summer minimum monthly discharge regularly grows from central foothill part of Northern Caucasus (30-50%) to the Western plain territory (70-100%). In Kuban river basin 30% of analyzed gauging stations show positive trend in maximum instantaneous discharge, while 9% negative. On the contrary, in the Eastern part – Terek river basin – negative trend in maximum instantaneous discharge is prevalent: 38% of gauging stations. Positive trend in Terek river basin is characteristic of 9.5% of analyzed gauging stations.


Abstract:The aims of the research is to describe the thinking process at senior high school students in solving the application problems of the derivative function viewed from personality type choleric, sanguine, melancholies, and phlegmatic. The research was a descriptive qualitative. The subjects of the research was students of class XII Senior High School 1 Surakarta consist of one student for each personality types. The prosedure of selecting the subjects used purposive sampling. The data of the research was collected by using think aloud method. The validity of the data used was triangulation. Technique analyzing of the data were: (1) classifying the data into three categories: (a) understanding the information, (b) solving the problems, (c) convincing the answer, and then reducing the data, (2) presenting the data, and (3) concluding the data in each categories. The results of the research showed that thinking process for, (1) choleric student: (a) reading and creating an image, understanding information and question, (b) devising solution, connecting the first equation with the planned solution, solving the problem and only using one way solution, (c) substituting the answers into the first equation and determining maximum value of the function, (2) sanguine student: (a) reading and looking, then creating an image, understanding information although having difficulties and understanding question, (b) devising solution, connecting the first equation with the planned solution, solving the problem although having difficulties and using the other solution, (c) substituting the answers into the first equation and adjusting the answers with the problem in question, (3) melancholies student: (a) reading repeatedly, then creating an image, understanding information although having difficulties and understanding question, (b) devising solution, connecting the first equation with the planned solution although having difficulties, solving the problem and using the other solution (c) determining maximum value of the function, (4) phlegmatic student: (a) looking and then creating an image, understanding information and question, (b) devising solution, connecting the first equation with the planned solution although having difficulties, solving the problem and only using one way solution, (c) looking back at the anwers and adjusting with the actual event. Keywords: thinking process, problem solving, personality type Typology Hippocrates-Galenus


Computer Vision (CV) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have reported unprecedented growth in recent years and demonstrated potential in almost all domains. In the medical realm machine learning and deep learning techniques are widely used for detection as well as classification o fa nomalies and segmentation of anomaly regions. Salient feature extraction is a challenging task in traditional machine learning techniques but deep learning models successfully extract better features with convolutional neural networks (CNN) and report better performance when the training dataset is tremendous. In the medical domain, the main challenge is the limited availability of annotated data to perform training. Colorectal polyp detection and localization is an arduous task due to the close resemblance of polyps with the surrounding colon regions and the irregular shapes of the polyps. But detection, localization, and segmentation of colon polyps are of great importance in the screening and removal of polyp regions for the prevention of colorectal cancer. Currently used U-Net and Mask-RCNN-based architectures for polyp segmentation are computationally expensive. In this paper, we explore a fusion model to overcome the downsides of both machine learning and deep learning techniques. The fusion model serves the similar purpose of segmentation with less computational overhead and can be used to assist clinicians in screening tests. In the proposed work, pre-trained deep CNNs are explored to extract salient features from image patches followed by ensemble machine learning techniques for the detection of colon polyps. A localization algorithm is applied on the detected image patches for localizing the position of the colon polyps.


According to the linear elastic fracture mechanics and the virtual work principle, the elemental stiffness matrix of the diagonally cracked RC beam is derived, and the frequencies and modes of the diagonally cracked beam are obtained. The experiment is executed to verify the elemental stiffness matrix. It is given from the experimental result that frequencies would be lower after crack happen, and the influence of higher frequencies is more obviously than influence of the lower frequencies for crack, which is matched with the fact. So the experimental result is reliable. The built elementary stiffness matrix is used to calculate the frequencies and modes of the experimental beams. The maximum relative error of frequencies of calculating and experimental test is controlled in the 2.79%, and the MAC values between calculated mode shapes and experimental mode shapes are all higher than 0.9. The values of calculating with the elementary stiffness matrix built are matched well with the experimental values. So the stiffness matrix of RC beam element with a diagonal crack is applicable in calculation.


Abstract Photorefractive two beam coupling gain and phase shift between light and refractive index of reduced potassium niobate are calculated as a function of many physics parameters, in terms of one center charge transport model. It is found that the application of an electric field influences the charge transport and leads to an increased space charge field. Therefore, leads to a considerable coupling gain.


Alter the triumph of the Revolution in 1959 there have been many adv ances in Nursing as a profession. That is why a study was performed in order to assess the impact of the humanization of the nursing services with the arrival of the health team of the Basic Nurse. A total of 330 basic nurses and 180 tutors and directors of Nursing were surveyed who comprise a representative sample of the whole universe, obtaining such information from "Manuel Fajardo" headquarters and branch from July 2004 to May 2005. The variables used were: criteria on advantages of the new pedagogical model, role of the basic nurses and their training, values that characterise them, as well as registration by headquarters in Nursing major. Out of a total of the 330 basic nurses, 322 (97.57%) consider teaching universalization as something transcendental . A total of 176 tutors and directors (97.77%) state that the arrival of this nurse into the health team causes an impact, since it has caused an assistance with a better quality and greater nursing efforts, which was stated by 175 tutors and directors (97 .22%). Among the values, humanism and the sense of duty stand out in these basic nurses. The registration was a significant aspect allowing to provide our country and other countries with services of quality and a high sense of humanism.


Climate change has caused shifts in seasonal timing of climatic events such as the onset of spring upwelling, which can lead to temporal mismatches between fish spawning and production of zoopklankton prey. Fishing may exacerbate mismatches through age truncation, particularly when offspring survival is dependent on maternal age, but no-take reserves or harvest reductions might buffer this effect. To quantify the potential for management to buffer synergistic interactions between fishing and climate, we developed a dynamic population model of a harvested species where larval survival depended on spring transition timing and maternal age. We applied this model to rockfishes (Sebastes spp.) after verifying empirically that spring transition timing affects their recruitment success. We found that yield and persistence changed more with maternal-age-dependent larval provisioning than maternal-age-dependent spawning timing across a range of spring transition timings, especially with environmental stochasticity...


The relative improvement of the diffusive barrier function of high density polyethylene ~HDPE! geomembranes to volatile organic compounds ~VOCs! when subjected to surface fluorination is experimentally examined. The surface fluorination consisted of applying elemental fluorine, which exchanged with hydrogen along polymer chains at the surface of a polyolefin substrate. Sorption and diffusion tests were performed on both traditional "untreated" and "fluorinated" 1.5 mm HDPE geomembranes using dilute aqueous organic contaminants commonly found in municipal solid waste leachate. The partitioning coefficient is shown to remain essential the same after the surface fluorination; however, the surface fluorination resulted in a reduction in both the diffusion and the permeation coefficients by factors ranging between 1.5 and 4.5, depending on the hydrocarbon examined. Modeling of VOC diffusion through a geomembrane/compacted clay composite liner indicated that contaminant impacts were about 1.7-2.9 times lower when a fluorinated geomembrane is used. To achieve the same level of protection as provided by the fluorinated geomembrane underlain by 0.60 m of compacted clay, one would need an additional 0.4- 0.9 m of compacted clay in conjunction with a conventional ~untreated! geomembrane. The importance of the thickness of the treated layer is highlighted.


Serial verb constructions (SVCs) are found in Creole languages and in the languages of West Africa, Southeast Asia, Amazonia, Oceania, and New Guinea. In this article we examine catenative verb constructions (CVCs) in English from a Role and Reference Grammar perspective and compare them with SVCs. More specifically, based on the set of syntactic and semantic properties of SVCs proposed by Kroeger (2004: 229�230), it will be demonstrated that CVCs in English have all of the characteristic syntactic and semantic properties of SVCs.


Based on X-ray diffraction and microstructure analysis the isothermal section at 400°C of the phase di agram of the system Eu-Cu-Si was built. The compound EuCu 2Si2 (CeAl2Ga2 structure type) was confirmed and its homogeneity region was determined (EuCu 2.25-1.50Si1.75-2.50). The compound EuCu0.80-0.20Si1.20-1.80 (AlB 2 structure type) is also characterized by a variabl e content of copper and silicon. In addition, four new compounds with unknown structure were found in this system. The effective valence of europium was studied.


Qi Zhen Zhuan(七眞傳) is not an art of creativity but is an
adaptation of Qi Zhen Zu Shi Lie Xian Zhuan(七眞祖師列仙傳). This
novel mainly describes about the founder of The Quan zhen(全眞敎)
and his seven pupil's accomplishment records. Transformed Taoists
and The Quan zhen(全眞敎) priests were famous for their way of
living in honest poverty. This study opened out the debate about
narrative manner and discipline theory of Qi Zhen Zhuan(七眞傳).
Firstly, as a novel of religious values, it achieved its targets and at
the same time examined about the traces that worked for the sake
of literary artistry. Secondly, it describes about the seeking truth and
trial, hard work of poor but honest saints. Through the
accomplishments like Doctrine expansion, performing miracles etc, the
seven saints examined the course of becoming a legend.


In this paper we shall show that blurred photographic images due to linear motion can be restored with a joint transform processor (JTP). The deconvolution function for the image deblurring can be directly implemented at the input plane of a JTP. The bipolarity of the deconvolution function can be accomplished by encoding with a ±-shifted grating structure. Computer simulations to test the feasibility of the scheme are given.


The three-parameter formula,provided by the existing technical specification CECS02:2005 of ultrasonic-rebound combined method,can not effectively express relationships between the ultrasonic velocity,rebound value and the compression strength of concrete,which makes an impact on its predictability.Therefore,the trend curve analysis is introduced to construct the concrete strength curve for the combined method.Taking a set of practical data as an example,two ranks and three ranks of trend curve equation are calculated.The results show that the fitting accuracy and forecasting ability of the trend curve equation are better than the specified formula.


A method for calibrating a 3D TOF camera system comprising the steps: - detecting and recognizing at least one suitable measuring object, - determination of a direction vector for at least one measurement object at a first time, - determining an expected time for a second direction vector as a function of a known trajectory of the vehicle, - detecting of the measured object in the second time and determining a second directional vector, - determination of a vector difference in angle and / or distance between the second and the expected direction vector.


This paper considers multiobjective linear programming problems where each coefficient of the objective functions is expressed by a random fuzzy variable. A new decision making model is proposed in order to maximize both of possibility and probability with respect to the objective function values. An interactive algorithm is constructed to obtain a satisficing solution for a decision maker from among a set of Pareto optimal solutions.


Today almost all the free as well as the commercial 3d graphics applications which claim to be photorealistic are capable to render images using the ray tracing algorithm. This method handles only one kind of light transport between surfaces, namely the total, mirror-like reflection. In this paper a simple practical method is going to be presented to extend the capabilities of the classical ray tracing algorithm. The proposed workflow makes diffuse light transport possible and the use of area lights instead of the common point, spot and directional lights. The possible difficulties applying the proposed procedure in different software environments is going to be discussed as well.


This research will focus on the works of Mikel Dufrenne devoted to aesthetic reflection, especially on those where the author elucidates more systematically his notion of aesthetic experience. It is our intention to find out whether, inside the limits of this conception, he admits the possibility of a metaphysical dimension within the processivity of an aesthetic experience, and on what philosophical foundations he establishes that possibility. Being a controversial hypothesis, we hope to modestly contribute to the critical enhancement of the philosophical legacy that Mikel Dufrenne left us through his thought-provoking work as we are celebrating the first centenary of his birth and fifteen years of his death (1910-1995). More broadly, it is our purpose - through the clues given by the author - to bring back to the core of aesthetic debate the instances of ontological and metaphysical reflection that have been underestimated, since the waves of postmodern relativism invaded the cultural and philosophical debate. We will follow the author in setting up a phenomenological version of the Aesthetics in order to stress that, already in that conceptual project, it is possible to find methodological and systematic original choices, which point to the presence of a "surge" that breaks off the categorical boundaries of the experienced. The thematic alignment that we propose on chapters two and three aims at consolidating the image of an aesthetic experience that evolves gradually to more intense and profound levels of experience, and which scope of phenomenological, anthropological and ontological implications strengthens the conviction that we are in the presence of a metaphysical sap that nurtures it. However, we are aware that Dufrenne hesitated long enough when it came to translate philosophically this horizon of metaphysical meaning of the aesthetic experience. This fact also has probably led other researchers to formulate interpretations that are significantly discrepant from the one that we propose. Nevertheless, as we intend to show in the last chapter, it is not this lack of explicitness that prevents us from finding the aesthetic and emotional, spiritual and intellectual fruits coming from the aesthetic experience, fluidized by a metaphysical openness to the absolute. As we present those conclusions, we are convinced that the path taken by Mikel Dufrenne, while phenomenologist, became even more comprehensive and credible.


The paper focuses on the issue of subjective wellbeing in rural areas in Poland. In the analysis 2004-2018 data from the European Social Survey (ESS) were used. The issue of the wellbeing of the rural population in the context of the vitality and development of rural areas is crucial, both from research and from a practical point of view.


Increasing the dose of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) is commonly used at early signs of loss of asthma control. However, the potential benefits and harms of this strategy remain unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to compare increased dose with stable dose of ICS among adults and children with asthma.


The export on visual and game industry has grown very rapidly and is expanding its role in economic growth. In contrast, researches on these firms` financial performances in strategic and policy point of view are difficult to be found regarding the export of cultural industry. In this study, we analysis the effects of firms export in cultural industry on their financial performances focusing on game and visual industry. We find that the recent activities of export in game industry have positive effect on firm`s growth in game industry. However, we find that the export deteriorate the net profit. On the other hand, we find no significant results in the case of visual game industry. Our results suggest that we need more strategic approaches in exporting goods in contents industry.


This is a major study of mortality in London from the late seventeenth to the early nineteenth century. After presenting a lucid overview of mortality theory and historical epidemiology, John Landers develops a structural model that he labels the "high potential" model of epidemiology, inspired by the work of W. H. McNeill. Here, determinants of exposure forms one central element and resistance against infection another. The author argues that emphasis should be placed on exposure to disease rather than to nutritionally based resistance. Given the population density of London, the high population mobility, and the low standards of sanitation, the model would predict a high exposure a high overall level of mortality, and a surplus of deaths among children and recent immigrants but also a substantial of immunological Because of the of the should be are spatial


The invention relates to a wheel-type linked barrier-crossing traveling mechanism capable of automatically adjusting according to the topographic situation. The wheel-type linked barrier-crossing traveling mechanism is composed of at least one traveling wheel and barrier-crossing connecting rods at the edges of the wheels, wherein the diameters of the wheels are equal; location holes are arranged on the wheels and the barrier-crossing connecting rods; the wheel is connected with the barrier-crossing connecting rod by a movable pin through the location holes; the position of the location hole on the wheel is necessary to be close to the circumference of the wheel to a large extent; the distances from the location hole of each wheel to the axial hole of each wheel is necessary to be consistent; and the axial hole of the wheel is connected with a drive shaft of a power drive device. When traveling on the flat ground, the barrier-crossing traveling mechanism is in round-wheel traveling, and is the same with the traveling of the common wheel-type traveling mechanism, when the barrier-crossing traveling mechanism meets barriers, the barrier-crossing connecting rod can be placed on the barrier, thus the wheel can cross the barrier with the help of the support action of the connecting rod. The barrier-crossing traveling mechanism is high in efficiency, high in reliability and concise in mechanism, has stronger barrier-crossing ability, and can be used in mobile devices, such as mobile robots, barrier-crossing vehicles and the like which need to travel on unsmooth ground.


Amorphous Fe90−x Ni x Zr10 is a system that exhibits a relatively high degree of magnetic exchange frustration, which becomes stronger as the system approaches the composition of amorphous pure iron. Thus, while samples with moderate amounts of iron (x≥5) are ferromagnetic, the samples with the highest concentration of iron (x≤1) behave like reentrant spin glasses. We have performed a detailed neutron scattering study of the spin‐wave excitations in this system for x=1, 5, 10, 20. In all cases, well‐defined spin‐wave excitations were observed below a transition temperature T c that decreased from 455 K (for x=20) to 250 K (for x=1). For x=5, 10, 20 the spin‐wave stiffness coefficient follows the temperature dependence expected for a conventional ferromagnet but the spin‐wave excitations broaden considerably at low temperatures. For x=1 the spin‐wave stiffness coefficient softens at low temperatures and an elastic component of the scattering, associated with the development of a spin‐glass order parameter, appears below T≊0.28T c . A coexistence of propagating spin‐wave excitations and spin freezing phenomena is observed below this temperature down to T=0.09T c . These results are discussed in terms of the relevant current theories.


Education is essential for humans in facing the complex life. In Islam, the first education starts from the family. The family is the initial environment that forms and grows individual personality through habitual instillation by parents. The purpose of this research is to discuss Islamic religious education in the family through a socio-cultural perspective. The method used by researchers is library research method by collecting literature sources from books, journals, and other related articles. This study found that the development of sociocultural education in Muslim families can be carried out through three aspects, helping each other, community unity and brotherhood of community. In constructing these socio-cultural values, parents play an important role in providing exemplary education, habits, advice, attention, rewards and punishments for children in accordance with Islamic law.


In this research, it is aimed to recover the gold from slags generated in the jewelry waste recycling process applied to obtain gold / silver from jewelry waste under suitable conditions by gravity separation and it has been explored whether it is possible to produce high grade / efficient gold pre-concentrate to reduce costs and maximize the recovery of precious metals. The Knelson centrifugal concentrator was used in enrichment studies by gravity separation. It has been determined that the composition of soda-borate based slag with a Au grade 7 g/t consists of relatively high Fe2O3 (13.25%) and PbO (11.38%), and the gold was concentrated in the fraction of -0.5 + 0.212 mm (34%) as a result of the size classification. The influence of operating conditions parameters of Knelson concentrator (washing water pressure, centrifugal force, feed rate, pulp solids ratio, etc.) and feed product particle size on Au grade and gold recovery efficiency of concentrate / waste were investigated. Considering the recovery rate of gold and the amount of gold in the tailings, it was determined that the effect of washing water pressure, centrifugal force and feed rate on the separation performance was limited, and the feed product particle size was effective on concentrate Au grade. A final concentrate containing 16 g/t of Au (Au grade of tailing: 3 g/t) was obtained with 72.4% recovery rate from the slag with 7 g/t Au grade at optimized conditions. In case of applying with the feed product sized of -0,212 mm, where the gold shows the highest distribution by size fraction, the Au grade of the concentrate increased significantly to 30 g/t.


Background. To the authors' knowledge, there have been no reports describing a case of malignant paraganglioma that produces both adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6).


Summer Fun in the City was a pilot inclusion project of the Council for Retarded Citizens of Jefferson County, Kentucky. It was a 2-week recreational educational program for students, ages 7 to 14, with diverse abilities and disabilities. One component of the program was the use of computers, with children using LogoWriter as their tool. The program's teachers, who were simultaneously enrolled in a graduate education course, reviewed research on the use of Logo with special needs students, learned how to use LogoWriter and Macintosh computers as learning tools, and learned how to use computers as an integral part of the curriculum. Students were divided into small integrated groups to complete individual and small group writing and drawing activities. Computer activities were integrated into the curriculum by having students use the computers to create name badges to wear on field trips, draw and label scenes seen on field trips, and compose thank you letters to field trip hosts. (JDD) *********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. ***********************************************************************


ABSTRACT This article outlines the nature of exchange relations between members of the so-called Number Gangs in South Africa. Transactions between these township-based members changed after apartheid with political and economic liberalisation. Through the case of an active gang leader in Cape Town, who was previously a career burglar, I look at the material things that move between members. I argue that transactions inside the gang do not make use of money, but are rather characterised by in-kind exchanges. These have four interdependent outcomes which structure the gang: (1) gifts that shape obligations in young recruits and experienced offenders; (2) enduring barter transactions for the collection of stolen electronics following such gifts; (3) employment in a context of joblessness; and (4) control for leaders.


In the new circumstances the balanced of inner pattern of traditional political- ideology education has been upset, we should set up a new balance and construct a new ideal pattern by restructuring its inner factors. The new pattern with student Party members dominating over political- ideology education in university gives full play to a pioneer role of student Party members in such five systems as subjective and objective, target, form of contents, evaluation feedback and safeguard by means of optimizing inside and outside environments, contents and ways of creative education.


We present an integrated approach to risk assessment and risk mitigation that is well suited to planning the development of complex software systems. Our integrated approach is able to derive estimates of the costs and benefits (in terms of qualities of the developed product) at the time of planning a development. It accommodates both process knowledge (the efficacy of development practices) and product knowledge (the logical structure of the system under development). Functional and non-functional aspects of sofiare can also be accommodated, and trades made among them. Optimization selecting the best suite of process steps and design choices to maximize the expectation of success while remaining within budget -


Objective\ Cloning and expression of Hantaan virus S gene truncated region(SA) and using it in rapid diagnosis of HFRS.Methods Obtained SA by RT PCR from the HFRS patient peripheral blood and cloned into GST fusion protein expression vector PGEX4T 2 by PCR and restriction digest methods,the recombinant protein was examined by immunoblot with polycloned antibodies.Results The molecular weights of SA was 49000 kDa and mainly expressed as inclusion body in Escherichia coli .Western blot analyses demonstrated that this recombinant protein presented the specific antigenicity\ Conclusion The prokaryotic expression of portions of the NPs of this specific Hantaan virus could be used to generate readily an efficiency in diagnostic assays for HFRS.;


Purpose: This article aims to present the role of community health workers in the implementation of a comprehensive CBR Programme in rural Mongolia, and to explore the main challenges that arise in this specific geographical and socio-economic context. Methods: Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with CBR workers from three selected provinces; short meetings and interviews with respective provincial level CBR coordinators complemented the information acquired. Additionally, a workshop with national level CBR stakeholders was carried out in order to review and discuss the findings. Results: The study highlighted a number of practical barriers (including long distances and lack of transportation, low population density, and harsh climate conditions) which constrain the work of community health workers in the areas studied. In relation to disability, the study shed light on the difficulties found by community workers in shifting from a medical approach to disability to a new approach that emphasizes prevention and rehabilitation. Exploring interviewees' experience in the five areas of CBR (health, education, livelihood, social, empowerment) the authors found that working in the areas other than health is perceived as difficult due to insufficient training as well as objective contextual barriers. Conclusions: Despite many challenges, CBR represents a significant improvement for disability action in rural Mongolia. In this context, the local community health workers are well suited and willing to act as CBR workers; nonetheless, more training and some tailoring work to adapt the Programme to the context is needed if all potential results are to be achieved. Limitations: This study did not include direct observation of CBR activities or consultation of beneficiaries and other stakeholders. Their involvement and consultation would certainly improve the understanding of all the issues raised. doi 10.5463/DCID.v23i1.96


By researching and analyzing we know that the leptin exists in hypothalamus,lung,kidney,muscle,adipose tissue,etc.It is protein hormone which coded by ob genetic,synthesis and secretion in the fatty tissue,contains 146 amino acids.Its main functions are the regulation and control eating,energy and weight.Leptin likes other hormone,need to combine with the peculiar receptor and play its biological role.In a word,leptin's discovery opens a brand-new way for further studying the fat emergence mechanism and preventing and treating fat,puts forward higher requirement for our research work too.


Significance More than half a century ago, Oliver Nelson and Edwin Mertz at Purdue University found the maize opaque2 (o2) mutation produces doubling of the endosperm lysine content, creating the foundation for quality protein maize (QPM) breeding. QPM has the potential to benefit millions of people in developing countries who consume maize as their sole protein source. However, breeding new QPM hybrids takes longer than regular hybrids, primarily because of the complex and unknown components of o2 endosperm modification; this has limited expansion of QPM worldwide. We identified a quantitative trait locus, a gene duplication at the 27-kDa γ-zein locus, which confers enhanced expression of this protein and leads to endosperm modification. This knowledge can effectively be applied in QPM breeding. The maize opaque2 (o2) mutant has a high nutritional value but it develops a chalky endosperm that limits its practical use. Genetic selection for o2 modifiers can convert the normally chalky endosperm of the mutant into a hard, vitreous phenotype, yielding what is known as quality protein maize (QPM). Previous studies have shown that enhanced expression of 27-kDa γ-zein in QPM is essential for endosperm modification. Taking advantage of genome-wide association study analysis of a natural population, linkage mapping analysis of a recombinant inbred line population, and map-based cloning, we identified a quantitative trait locus (qγ27) affecting expression of 27-kDa γ-zein. qγ27 was mapped to the same region as the major o2 modifier (o2 modifier1) on chromosome 7 near the 27-kDa γ-zein locus. qγ27 resulted from a 15.26-kb duplication at the 27-kDa γ-zein locus, which increases the level of gene expression. This duplication occurred before maize domestication; however, the gene structure of qγ27 appears to be unstable and the DNA rearrangement frequently occurs at this locus. Because enhanced expression of 27-kDa γ-zein is critical for endosperm modification in QPM, qγ27 is expected to be under artificial selection. This discovery provides a useful molecular marker that can be used to accelerate QPM breeding.


The invention discloses a VDMOS (vertical double-diffusion metal-oxide-semiconductor) device in a novel structure and a manufacture method of the VDMOS device. A first groove is formed in an active region, in addition, a thick insulation oxidation layer is grown on the inner wall of the first groove, the first groove is deeper than a cell groove, the depth of the first groove exceeds a half of the thickness of a first conducting type epitaxial layer of a semiconductor base plate, and the voltage withstanding requirement of the device is met. Meanwhile, a first metal is arranged above a first conducting polycrystalline silicon arranged in the first groove, the first metal is in equipotential electric connection with the first conducting polycrystalline silicon, and the voltage withstanding capability of the device is further improved. The VDMOS device and the manufacture method have the advantages that the first groove is introduced, and the voltage withstanding capability of the device is enhanced, so the epitaxial layer with lower electrical resistivity can be selected, and the device meets the higher voltage withstanding requirement and also has the lower feature on resistance at the same time.


The present study explores the potential of 10-day old zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a predictive model for ADME studies. For this purpose, an analytical method to measure the whole-body uptake of pharmaceuticals in zebrafish using state-of-the-art equipment is developed. 10-day old zebrafish are incubated with pharmaceuticals displaying a variety in physicochemical properties via the route of immersion at the maximum tolerated concentration, after which the zebrafish are homogenized and extracted using a powerful batch sonicator. Samples are then analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) on a reversed-phase 2.1 mm I.D. column, coupled to a state-of-the-art Waters Xevo TQ-S mass spectrometer. Recovery, matrix effects, linearity and sensitivity are investigated for all compounds. It is demonstrated that the lower limits of quantification of the analytical method are so good, that a single zebrafish can be used to study the whole-body uptake of a particular drug. A clear correlation between lipophilicity and absorption of the drugs is observed in zebrafish using this methodology.


Aicardi syndrome is a severe congenital disorder characterised by infantile spasms, chorioretinal lacunae, and agenesis ofthe corpus callosum. We present the case of a 10-year-old girl whose symptoms included a poorly controlled seizure disorder, typical lacunar retinopathy, partial hypoplasia of the corpus callosum, and mild developmental delay. This case alerts ophthalmologists to the presence of a mild form of the typical Aicardi syndrome that can be diagnosed by the characteristic chorioretinopathy. Our patient's symptoms also raise important questions about genetic counselling and other undiagnosed cases of infantile spasms.


A direct systematic approach is given to the derivation of outer M-labelled {|IM(.)>} dual (spin) irrep sets for identical n 12-fold higher Ii nuclear spin ensembles, stressing (i) the essential ro...


An epidemiological survey aiming to determine the occurrence of anti-Leptospira antibodies and to identify risk factors was carried out in horses of the Pajeu microregion, state of Pernambuco. Sera from 100  horses from 38  properties in four counties in the region were examined by the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), using 24 Leptospira spp. serovars as antigens. Of the 100 samples tested, 28 (28%) were positive. Most prevalent serovars were Patoc (35.71%), Butembo (32.14%) and Sentot (14.30%). Supply of pasture as forage (odds ratio=7.80; 95% confidence interval  – 95%CI 1.71– 35.50; p=0.008) was identify as risk factor. It is suggested the need for studies on agent isolation and characterization of its pathogenicity, as well as it is recommended the rodent control in deposits of feed and environment.


The 2009 Canadian Census Test was officially held on May 12th. It is a key element in the planning of the 2011 Census. Among the innovations tested were a wave collection methodology designed to maximize Internet response, a voice message broadcasted to encourage responses, a process to identify unoccupied dwellings early in the census collection process and a computerized system for field activities management. The sample for the Test consisted in a set of 110,000 dwellings selected in two sites of Canada and a set of 25,000 dwellings selected randomly across the country. The Test sample showed a high Internet response, an improved coverage and a streamlined collection process. In this paper, we will describe some of those new collection methods and present details on the results of their evaluation. We will also give an outlook of how this will be used for the 2011 Census. 1. Context and objectives of the Census Test Two years prior to each census of population, a test is held in order to put into practice the procedures, methodologies and systems that will be used in the next census. Thus, the main general objective of the Census Test is the evaluation of the operational aspects of the next census, with specific attention given to any changes or new aspects that are planned. For the 2011 Census, the test was held on May 12 th , 2009. Some analysis of the results, such as the effectiveness of the methods and the quality of the results, is also performed, but due to the limitations of the sample design of the test, described in the next section, caution has to be used in the interpretation of the results. There are several new aspects that required special attention at the 2009 Census Test. In this paper, we will describe and analyze the results related to the wave collection methodology, described in section 3, and to the use of a voice broadcast message as a method to encourage responses. Other new aspects that required special attention but not covered in this paper are  the Dwelling Occupancy Verification (DOV) operation, which is a process to identify unoccupied dwellings early in the collection period  the Field Management System (FMS), which is a system that, among other things, is used by field staff to manage assignments and update the status of the dwellings in the main system  the enumerator pay system, which is going from a piece rate to an hourly rate.


The infrastructure of our transport network is ageing. At the same time, the requirements to the infrastructure increase regarding the development of autonomous and connected transport systems. To ensure the function and the availability of the transport network, the importance of frequent and digitally enhanced structural maintenance increases continuously. In order to save time and resources it also becomes necessary to optimise the maintenance process and to implement predictive functionalities. The concept of the digital twin can be the key to achieve this transformation. The aim of this paper is to present the concept of the digital twin and its realisation on the Köhlbrandbrücke in Hamburg, Germany.


Computerized colony records were used to identify dams and sires whose reproductive histories while breeding in harem groups indicated high or low risk for producing fetal deaths. The monkeys were then singly caged and bred within and between risk conditions during 24‐ to 72‐hour matings. Although the low‐ and high‐risk sires did not differ in ability to achieve conceptions, the results revealed that reproductive history predicted subsequent fetal death rates, and sires made a substantial contribution. Overall, high‐risk sires had a 4.86 times higher relative risk of producing fetal death than low‐risk sires. Compared with this figure, high‐risk dams had only a 2.64 times higher risk for fetal death than low‐risk dams. The male effect was most evident in comparisons of between‐ and within‐risk matings. Females with excellent reproductive histories experienced a threefold increase in fetal deaths when mated with high‐risk males, whereas females with poor reproductive histories experienced almost a 50% reduction in fetal deaths when mated with low‐risk males. The results show that male factors beyond fertility need to be considered when examining the causes of reproductive failure in captive primates.