An investigation on necton of Yun-dang lake was carried out in Jul. and Oct., 2001 and in Jan. and Apr., 2002. The results showed that the species increased from 43 in 1992 to 60, among 17 species increased, 6 of fish, 9 of crab and 2 of cephalopod. 2 species of shellfish and 1 species of sea-hare were also collected. Unit catch of gill net in the lake increased from 0.450 9 g/m 2·h in 1992~1993 to 0.529 8 g/m 2·h, up 17.50%. Unit catch in number increased from 0.008 3 ind/m 2·h in 1992~1993 to 0.0145 5 ind/m 2·h, up 75.30%. The increase in species, variation in community structure and obvious recovery in relative biomass index and relative biotic density index of necton indicated that ecological environment of Yun-dang lake had been improved greatly by further comprehensive control and management since 1993.


Abstract Any measurement strategy designed to discriminate between nonorthogonal quantum states will have a finite probability of yielding erroneous or inconclusive results. The lower bounds on these probabilities for conclusive and error-free strategies are given by the Helstrom and Ivanovic–Feres limits respectively. We consider intermediate measurements which interpolate between these extremes and derive a general lower bound on the combination of errors and inconclusive results. We also describe a family of measurement strategies which attains this limit.


The present study focuses its attention on the analysis of urban growth from the industry in the municipalities of Funza and Mosquera which are municipalities that are in an emerging growth, that is to say that they are in an accelerated process of economic development and industrial. Currently, these municipalities are considered important industrial foundations, a fact that in itself constitutes a challenge for urban and regional planning since if there is no articulation between industrial growth and land use it is impossible to achieve a comprehensive distribution of space.

This research outlined a detailed overview of the situation, and that it can be made public, this in order to reflect on the need to promote industrial and urban growth that is consistent and homogeneous, and that is supported by ideas of newer, more sustainable and planned territorial planning.

For this purpose, the industrial location of the municipalities was characterized, later the relationship between the types of industry of the municipalities of Funza and Mosquera and their location was determined, and the relationship between the industrial location of the municipalities of Funza and Mosquera and the land management plans to later identify land management opportunities from the identified patterns.


A Moment Method analysis of a typical circular waveguide polarizer module is described in this paper. The method uses complete sets of entire domain basis and testing functions which provide a high accuracy in the predicted complex scattered fields. Precision design of polarizers can be achieved using this algorithm. Predicted results for a design example are presented.


Necessity for improved calculation of bandgap energies of semiconducting single wall carbon nanotubes is discussed. An effective empirical equation for nearest neighbor hopping parameter (γ0) in tight binding model of carbon nanotube is proposed in terms of nanotube diameter and chiral index combination. Bandgap energies of all semiconducting single-wall carbon nanotubes in between theoretical minimum and maximum diameter range are calculated from simplest tight binding model using this empirical γ0. Calculated bandgap values excellently match with experimental results over the full diameter range. The proposed hopping parameter greatly improves tight binding model, and remove its quantitative failure in predicting bandgap energy of nanotube.


Keywords: NCCR-climate ; climate policy Note: Cambridge, MA : MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change, juin 2001 (Report n° 74) Reference REME-WORKINGPAPER-2008-010 Record created on 2008-04-10, modified on 2016-08-08


Aim  The enemy release hypothesis is often invoked to explain why some alien plant species become invasive. Here, we investigated relationships between invasiveness, taxonomic isolation and leaf herbivory for tropical alien plant species introduced to a botanical garden in East Africa.


The article is devoted to the magazine "News", which was launched to print in the USSR in English language in 1951 and was distributed in 80 countries by Stalin's decision. The relevance of the work is due to the fact that this media, which played a prominent role in Soviet foreign policy propaganda, is currently not known even to specialists, and there is no scientifi c studies on this magazine. The study of information warfare technologies is important in analysing their methods in the period of their formation. Of particular importance are the studies of little-known Soviet foreign policy propaganda media, one of which is the magazine "News". It was closed by a secret resolution of the Presidium of the Central Committee of the CPSU in late 1956 as a 'publication that has exhausted its tasks.' Sources are original copies of "News" in English and archival documents of the Central Committee of the CPSU, the USSR Foreign Ministry, the Council of Ministers of the USSR, declassifi ed after 1991, many of which are introduced into scientifi c circulation for the fi rst time.


Shipping has contributed strongly to biological invasions in coastal ecosystems, transferring species in ballast tanks and on exposed underwater surfaces (hulls). A long history exists that documents biota associated with ships' hulls, including some recent analyses of modern ships, but relatively little is known about the associated risks of invasion. In general, the likelihood of invasion is expected to increase with increasing propagule supply, which suggests that high‐density transfers on hulls may pose a relatively high invasion risk. Obsolete vessels are expected to be at an extreme end of the spectrum for biofouling, since they sit at anchorage for long periods and are towed at relatively slow speeds when moved, but this remains largely unexplored. In this paper, we quantified the biofouling communities of two obsolete vessels, one stationary for one decade and the other for two decades, before and after their final transit from California to Texas. Pre‐departure biofouling surveys across both vessels detected 22 species of macroinvertebrates. The biomass was dominated by the introduced bryozoan Conopeum chesapeakensis, which occurred in 98% of samples and created a three‐dimensional structure (2–5 cm thick). Mobile species, inhabiting the vertical biofouling matrix, were more numerous than sessile ones. Interestingly, the non‐native Asian clam Corbula amurensis, not previously associated with hull fouling assemblages, was recorded in 9% of samples. During the 43‐day voyage, organisms encountered salinity variation that ranged between zero (Panama Canal) and at least 37 parts per thousand (Brownsville, Texas) and temperatures that varied between 9.9 °C and 31.6 °C. Upon arrival in Texas, we measured an expected decrease in biofouling extent across both vessels but also a surprising increase in species richness (57 species were recorded), with small compositional differences between ships that did not exist prior to departure. Several species were recorded alive upon arrival, including non‐natives that are not known to be established in Texas waters. The physiological tolerance and associated risk of colonization have not yet been evaluated for these organisms, or for the broader species pool associated with a standing fleet (n > 200 ships) that may undergo similar movements. Nonetheless, a compelling case exists for vector management based on organism flux alone, to reduce the risk of coastwise and inter‐oceanic invasions.


Representing more than 20% of all deaths occurring worldwide, infectious diseases remain one of the main factors in both human and animal morbidity and mortality [...].


In her new publication, In Your Face: 9 Sexual Scenarios, Mandy Merck presents us with a collection of themed essays. Some of these essays have been published elsewhere and others have been given as conference presentations and revised and re® ned for their role in this collection. In this work, Merck engages with some of the most important issues that have emerged since the 1980s in critical debates about the sexual self. The discussions can be seen to be located along a theoretical continuum which begins with those more uni® ed notions of feminism that were around at the beginning of the 1980s and ends with those more postmodern and queer conceptions of the sexual self that emerged in the 1990s. Two signi® cant coordinates or reference points can be plotted along this continuum: ® rst, the debates about pornography that ravaged feminism during a period that became known as the sex wars, and second, the Clinton/Monica Lewinsky scandal which became commonly known as Zippergate. As with all notional continuums, the theoretical and cultural reference points are not discrete but are, perhaps, best explained as moments of negotiation that contribute to and re ̄ ect the energies of the debate. Merck's point of intervention in these debates comes at a time when she argues that a for onceo debates about sex and the sexual self in the academy seem to be a in phase with wider cultureo (p. 2). In many ways, this collection of essays constitutes a ® n de sieÁ cle gesture that re ̄ ects the contradictory sense of insatiability and, yet also, sexual overload that has been apparent, particularly in popular media culture, as the last century drew to a close. Merck attempts momentarily to pin down what has proven to be one of the 20th century's most slippery customersÐ sexÐ by drawing discourse-based theoretical approaches together with cultural and sexual practices that are based in the everyday. By organising her discussions under two headings, a Phantomso and a Flesho , the structure that Merck adopts makes explicit the connection between repressed or (ghostly) ideas of desire, the exchange value of the erotic in society and the self-transformative potential of sexuality when it questions the a normso of sexual organisation but still acknowledges what is often the speci® city of sexual desires and practices. Notions of phantoms and ̄ esh, thus, also become self-referencing coordinates along the continuum of Merck's discussion and consequently do not remain neatly within the structural divisions of the book but emerge as preoccupations that pre® gure and respond to the drive of Merck's analysis. The title of this publication, In Your Face: 9 Sexual Scenarios, signals both a libidinal intention and the resistance to coyness. The title, therefore, promises to


Experiments on seepage flow patterns in fine controlled fractured thin and poor reservoir were carried out based on artificial core plate models. Pressure gradient distribution is revealed based on pressure data obtained by pressure transducers in artificial core plate models, and sketch maps of seepage flow sections are drawn to study on seepage flow patterns qualitatively and quantitatively. Experiments show that seepage flow patterns in thin and poor reservoir are influenced by permeability, heterogeneity and cracks of fine controlled fracturing, horizontal cracks generated by fine controlled fracturing have greater influence on seepage flow patterns as thin and poor reservoirs have strong homogeneity and low permeability. Fine controlled fracturing can reduce the negative influence of low permeability and strong heterogeneity and expand fluid flow range. Thin and poor reservoirs can be divided into three sections by types of seepage flow for fluid flowing through, i.e. the no-flow section, the nonlinear seepage flow section, and the quasi-linear seepage flow section. The no-flow section is reduced by at least 72% by fine controlled fracturing, and area for fluid flowing through increases correspondingly, and the proportion of quasi-linear percolation area which is more conducive to fluid flow raise by over 87%.


Ab initio investigations at the MP2, CCSD(T), and MRCISD levels of theory with augmented triple-ζ basis sets have identified and characterized various stationary points on the Be/(H2)n, n = 1−3, hypersurfaces. The van der Waals complexes, Be(H2)n, are very weakly bound (De = 0.08−0.32 kcal/mol with respect to H2 loss) with H2/H2 interactions playing an important role in determining equilibrium structures which can be understood in terms of the various relevant long-range potentials. The covalent molecule, BeH2, is found to have a linear, centrosymmetric structure and to be strongly bound with respect to Be + H2, in agreement with previous calculations. BeH2 interacts weakly with additional H2 molecules (De < 0.75 kcal/mol) which are positioned parallel to the near-linear BeH2 moiety in the equilibrium structures of the BeH2(H2)n-1 complexes. Of particular interest is the dramatic change in the nature of the transition state for BeH2 production depending on the number of H2 molecules present. For n = 1, th...


The main aim of the work was to study clinical and biochemical impairments and to assess complex treatment results of patients with trifacial neuralgia (TN). 23 patients were included in the study. They were divided into the main group - the group of differentiated high-frequency rhizotomy + basic therapy + intravenous laser irradiation of blood (ILIB) + ОАВА-ergic drug Phenibut. The control group was differentiated high-frequency rhizotomy + basic therapy. Besides, 22 almost healthy volunteers were included in the study. Clinical status, indicators of carbohydrate metabolism, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant blood enzymes activity, contents of substance P and noradrenalin in plasma were studied at the beginning of hospitalization and at the end of the treatment course. A significant regress of the pain syndrome was achieved in the both groups. The reactions of lipid peroxidation were normalized while indicators of carbohydrate metabolism were impaired in hypoxic character. An additional prescription of ILIB and Phenibut to patients with TN assisted in the blood contents normalization of the substance P.


Hundred-meter-sized objects have been identified by the Cassini spacecraft in Saturn's A ring through the so-called propeller features they create in the ring. These moonlets should migrate due to their gravitational interaction with the ring; in fact, some orbital variations have been detected. The standard theory of type I migration of planets in protoplanetary disks cannot be applied to the ring system as it is pressureless. Thus, we compute the differential torque felt by a moonlet embedded in a two-dimensional disk of solid particles, with a flat surface density profile, both analytically and numerically. We find that the corresponding migration rate is too small to explain the observed variations of the propeller's orbit in Saturn's A ring. However, local density fluctuations (due to gravity wakes in the marginally gravitationally stable A ring) may exert a stochastic torque on a moonlet. Our simulations show that this torque can be large enough to account for the observations depending on the parameters of the rings. We find that on timescales of several years the migration of propellers is likely to be dominated by stochastic effects (while the former, non-stochastic migration dominates after ∼104–105 years). In that case, the migration rates provided by observations so far suggest that the surface density of the A ring should be on the order of 700 kg m−2. The age of the propellers should not exceed 1–100 million years depending on the dominant migration regime.


Patients may be referred to hospital in the terminal stages of cancer for specific medical needs or because home circumstances are unsuitable. Other patients may be cared for in difficult conditions at home, because of the wishes of the patients or their rela tives. The aim of the present study was to categorize the terminal needs of patients dying from cancer in the city of Manchester, which has a population of over six hundred thousand.


Forced displacement is a worldwide phenomenon related not only to political and social crisis in different countries, but also to the control of rural areas by armed groups involved in a conflict. Recently, in Colombia, this social phenomenon has dramatically increased together with agrarian, social, and productive problems. The aim of this paper is to analyze the relationship between forced displacement and land tenure in Antioquia in 1996-2004. It finds a positive and strong relationship between land tenure and forced displacement in Antioquia, especially in two of its most important agricultural regions: Uraba and Oriente.


Modelling and Simulation apply to real object whose behaviours are not known or very difficult to understand. Studying models and simulating it reveals the hidden knowledge of the object and thus help to predict its behaviour accurately.


Artocarpus communis (Forst.) is popularly known in English as 'breadfruit' tree because of the 'bread-like texture' of its edible fruits. The leaves are potential for fever and liver disorders and it also possesses significant anti-platelet and anti-inflammatory activities. The aim of this study is to formulate ethyl acetate extract of Artocarpus communis leaves into a solid dosage form. Pelletization was developed to formulate the extract. The formula was prepared using various ratios of extract (5, 10, 15 and 20 %) with PVP as a binder and Avicel pH101 as a filler. The influence of extract concentration was studied on the pellet characteristics. Pellet was prepared by extrusion-spheronization technique. In order to produce pellet with optimum diameter (500-900 µm), the moisture of the extrudates must be around 40%, with spheronizer speed of 800-900 rpm for 1.5 minutes. In particular for flow property, all pellets containing more than 5% of Artocarpus communis leaf extract were better (> 8 g/s) over blank pellets (


Most current reports on antipressor drugs concern their effectiveness in groups of patients and give little consideration to cases in which drugs have been ineffective. Rather, the proportions that respond faably are listed and some exemplary responses may be summarized. The present report contrasts with this custom. It deals primarily with one patient whose severe hypertensive disease was not controlled by available drugs. Relevant observations made in other patients are noted. The data bear on the effects and complications of antihypertensive drugs and on effects of carotid sinus denervation; they are concerned also with the nature of hypertensive encephalopathy and the mechanism of hexamethonium resistance and, in brief, with unusual renal and metabolic symptoms and signs noted in this patient. Report of a Case The patient was found to have high blood pressure at a physical examination in 1947. When first seen at the Cleveland Clinic in November, 1951, which


The March 2017 issue of the Journal of Spatial Science marks a significant change in the membership of the Editorial Board. I take this opportunity to extend my sincere appreciation to the substantial contributions to the Journal by Phil Collier (CRC for Spatial Information), Jonathan Corcoran (University of Queensland) and Adrian Allen (Landgate). Phil, Jonathan and Adrian have all been instrumental in the development of the Journal of Spatial Science over recent years. This issue also marks the expansion of Board membership with the appointment of several new members to the Editorial Board. The following people join the Board to provide guidance, input and direction from their relevant disciplines within the spatial sciences: Florence Tupin (Telecom ParisTech), Yan Liu (University of Queensland), Robert Odolonski (University of Otago), Bailang Yu (East China Normal University), Martin Tomko (University of Melbourne) and Zhiwei Li (China Central South University). This issue provides a broad range of papers of interest to the research and professional readership. Odijk, Khodabandeh, Nadarajah, Choudhury, Zhang, Li and Teunissen report on the underlying principles of the PPP-RTK platform for both network and users. The authors demonstrate the GPS-based performance and provide an outlook for when multi-GNSS constellations, such as BDS, Galileo and QZSS, become fully operational. Okwuashi and Ndehedehe explore the novel use of support vector machine regression (SVMR) as an alternative model to the conventional least squares (LS) model for predicting tide levels. The research reports that statistical tests of the difference between the observed tide and the LS and SVMR predicted tides and between the LS and SVMR predicted tides are insignificant at the 95% confidence level. Place descriptions by landmarks are investigated by Zhou, Winter, Vasardani and Zhou. This paper proposes and tests a formal model to capture the concept of place in human perception by transferring the concept of fingerprints from robotics: a place being characterized by the landmarks around it. The results indicate that the union of all locations with the same fingerprint characterizes a 'place' in human cognition. Land change in Kigali (Rwanda) is examined by Akinyemi, Pontius and Braimoh using intensity analysis, which measures the temporal stationarity of changes among categories. Maps for 1981, 2002 and 2014 were produced that show the land categories Built, Vegetated and Other (mainly croplands and bare surfaces). The results indicated that a substantial portion of overall change during the time intervals consisted of simultaneous transitions from Vegetated to Other in some locations and from Other to Vegetated in other locations. The Thornthwaite Moisture Index (TMI) is a climate classification used in biophysical and biological studies that also has application to assess climate change induced patterns of moisture variability. In this paper Leao develops analytical procedures to assess the quality of climate data used as input, and to select a suitable spatial resolution for the output map. Results indicated that different trade-off options affect the climate classification and, therefore, a proposed framework can be used for non-arbitrary decisions on TMI mapping. Agriculture productivity can be modelled with spatio-temporal variables through quantification of biophysical parameters like LAI (leaf area index) and radiation parameters from satellites.


Despite the numerous descriptions of the mode of embalming practised by the ancient Egyptians that have been written, beginning with that of Herodotus in the fifth century B . C . , there is still a considerable difference of opinion regarding both the method and the materials employed. As it seemed exceedingly probable that the secret was present in the known facts, although it had hitherto escaped notice, and in tho hopo that it might bo revealed, the writer has ven tured to go over the well-trodden ground once more and to try, without bias, to re-state the significant facts and to give the conclusions that arise from them. In order that the chemical aspect of the matter may bo understood, it may be stated that natron is a naturally occurring compound of sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate. As found in Egypt, natron always contains sodium chloride (common salt) and sodium sulphate as impurities, these being present in very varying proportions. Thus in fourteen specimens of natron from the Wadi Natrun analysed by the writer tho proportion of common salt varied from 2 per cent, to 27 per cent., and that of sodium sulphate from a trace to 39 per cent.; and in three specimens from El-Kab the common salt varied from 12 per cent, to 57 per cent, and the sodium sulphate from 11 per cent, to 70 per cent. The facts may now be enumerated, and at the end of each series a short summary will be given and, when all the facts have; been marshalled and summarized, the conclusions that follow from them will be stated.


This paper introduces the measures of single girder test. Through analysis of the test data, a proper assessment of the quality of a single girder is provided.


Molecular Dynamics simulations using a surface‐hopping method for transitions between different electronic states are employed to study the dynamics following photoexcitation of the Ba(Ar)125 cluster. The results are used to interpret spectroscopic experiments on large, size‐distributed Ba(Ar)n clusters. The dynamics of the coupled electronic‐nuclear motions in the cluster involves transitions between three potential energy surfaces, corresponding to the nearly‐degenerate p‐states of the excited Ba atom. Ejection of excited Ba atoms, adsorbed on the surface of the cluster, can take place. The focus in comparing theory and experiment is on the emission spectrum from the excited clusters, on the polarization of this radiation, and on the polarization of light emitted by excited Ba atoms ejected from the cluster. Based on the good agreement found between theory and experiment, a comprehensive picture of the excited state dynamics is given. It is found that upon excitation, energy is rapidly redistributed in ...


Background: Children injuries are a major public health problem globally and considered as an important social health issue that needs an urgent care and action, regards as a health consideration in the whole world, influencing both developed and developing countries. The increased exposure to potentially hazardous home environments and activities caused by stay-at-home orders and closures of schools due to COVID-19 pandemic may be responsible for a new spate of injuries among children in 2020. method: population based cross sectional study done in rural area (Al-Jazeera/Shatt Al-Arab). This cross sectional study involved households with at least one child in age group of less than 18 years, in rural area in Basra city (2020). Objectives: To determine the magnitude of childhood injuries during COVID-19 pandemic in terms of incidence, to determine nature and causes of injuries and factors that may affect the incidence of childhood injuries that is associated with quarantine and homestay for long periods during pandemic. A total of 652 children under 18 years of age (according to the definition of WHO) were included in the study, 109 children had injuries during the pandemic year (2020). Result: The incidence rate of injury in the area was 167.1/ 1000 children, males show higher incidence rate of injury rather than females. the effect of child sex, mother education and age on the incidence of injury were highly significant, while age of child and birth order were not significant. Soft tissue injuries and burns were the leading causes of injuries in our household study. General improvement and modification of sociocultural environment are recommended, children and adolescent education about safety and necessary precaution. establishing of injury surveillance system is important for preventing and control of injuries Governments and healthcare authorities should proactively implement appropriate intervention programs and better resources to prevent these home injuries during lockdown.


Abstract Recent months have highlighted the progressing energy crisis across Europe in connection with the severe sanctions imposed on the import of hydrocarbons and coal from Russia. This is particularly visible in Poland, where over 40% of electricity is generated from coal, while in individual households it is the primary source of heat. This situation puts the already enigmatic plans of shutting down coal mining in Poland into question. Therefore, work aimed at increasing the extraction capacity of existing shafts while maintaining the highest level of operational safety is still valid. This article concerns the issues of the fatigue life of compacted ropes used as hoist ropes in mine shafts. The discussion regarding the use of these ropes among shaft hoist users has been going on for several years. This paper presents the unique results of compacted rope fatigue tests carried out at the Central Mining Institute in Katowice. In the authors' view, these results and their interpretation should serve to clarify several important aspects that arouse the interest of users.


Aiming at the accurate estimation of rotor speed and position of surface- mounted permanent synchronous motor, a scheme using extended state observer in the two phase static frame is constructed. The conventional method estimating the rotor speed and position in two phase synchronized rotation reference frame has the problem of error accumulation of the estimated rotor position which was calculated by angular velocity estimated value integral. This method avoids those problems and has advantages. The speed and current closed loop control system is constructed by using the auto disturbance rejection controller to replace the PI regulator. The simulation results validate the accuracy of the rotor speed and position is higher, and the system is stable and has good disturbance rejection performance.


The charity box is a supporting facility that can be used by pilgrims to distribute their infaq. In this modern era, it turns out that the mosque still counts the contents of the charity box manually and uses the usual padlock key for the safety of the charity box. The purpose of this research is to build a system and tool that can simplify the performance of mosque administrators in counting money and maintaining the security of the charity box. ArduinoBased Charity Box Safety, Tracking, and Counter System is a charity box equipped with automatic counting and security features using RFID and GPS. The method used in making this system is the waterfall method. The features in this system are automatic counting and security features using RFID keys, GPS, buzzers, and infrared sensors. This system is also equipped with a notification to the mosque management regarding the amount of money in the charity box and the location of the charity box using GSM / GPRS. From the testing of the system, it was produced that the Arduino-Based Charity Box Safety, Tracing, and Counter System was able to detect banknotes and coins well. The SMS feature also works well where there will be an SMS message regarding the amount of money and location of the charity box. The safety of the charity box is enhanced by using RFID, GPS, buzzers, and infrared sensors. From the user satisfaction test results obtained by the percentage of user satisfaction by 85%, which means the Arduino-Based Charity Box Safety, Tracing, and Counter System is quite attractive to users.


In order to understand the transmission mechanism at human tissue of near-infrared square-wave pulse (NIRSP), an experimental study of the duty ratio threshold for regular transmission at the fingertip and palm of human hand by NIRSP was carried out by using a couple of simple transmitting and receiving device with tunable duty ratios, and also the light emitting diodes (LED) both at the wavelengths of 850 nm and 940 nm. The thresholds were determined by measuring the waveforms of the changed voltages of NIRSP receiving system as a measurement of the transmission at human tissue. When the receiving waveforms were taken on the certain behavior as the emitting waveforms, the duty ratio threshold for regular transmission at human tissue of NIRSP was observed. The experimental results show that the duty ratio is an important index for the transmission at human tissue of NIRSP. And the duty ratio thresholds for regular transmission both at the fingertip and palm of NIRSP at the wavelength of 850 nm and 940 nm have been given.


Globalization entails growing interconnectedness across time and space due to the greater ease of international travel and enhanced information and communication technologies. Digitality, or the way social, cultural, and political life is increasingly organized through digital networks, is a critical feature of contemporary globalization. New digital technologies, including the Internet, cell phones, and social networking sites, have radically altered the way we communicate, and by extension how we socialize, build communities, and engage in politics. Despite early fears that digital technologies would exacerbate alienation and erode social ties or, alternatively, the hyped claims that they would completely alter our social and political worlds beyond recognition, it is now clear that new digital technologies are being incorporated into daily social and political life, enhancing and transforming our everyday forms of social and political engagement at local, regional, and global scales. Contemporary globalization is thus facilitated by and constitutive of a widespread expansion of digitally powered socio-political networks.

Keywords:

communication;
communication networks;
culture;
internet and new media


Introduction: COVID-19 infection can cause a wide range of complications, from respiratory infection to skin rashes. Case Presentation: Here, we report a case of a 73-year-old woman with left brachial artery thrombosis 2 weeks after the onset of COVID-19 infection, leading to left upper limb ischemia. Conclusions: Given the life-changing nature of limb ischemia that can lead to amputation, it is crucial to consider it from the beginning of COVID-19 infection and think of preventive measures in this pandemic.


Abstract:  A new screening method for detecting gamma‐hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) in drink matrices, using the IonSense, Inc. (Saugus, MA) direct analysis in real time (DART) ion source coupled to a JEOL exact mass time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer (AccuTOF), was validated and compared with the current screening methodology. The DART ion source allows for analysis of samples under ambient conditions with little to no sample preparation. Fifty drink specimens were spiked at levels of 1, 2, 3, and 4 mg/mL GHB, and analyzed on the AccuTOF‐DART. Positive detection of GHB occurred for each of the samples at each concentration level, giving 100% accuracy for the samples tested. Twenty‐five of the 50 drink specimens were spiked at 1 mg/mL GHB and tested using a color test known as the GHB Color Test #3. Only two of these 25 specimens tested positive for the presence of GHB, giving only 8% accuracy. Implementation of this new methodology as a screening tool for GHB analysis will quickly eliminate negative specimens allowing the examiner to focus analysis time on those that screened positive.


2009 13–14 FEBRUARY Legacies '09 Public Memory Research Centre Conference 2009 University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba 30 JUNE–3 JULY Constructing the Past AHA Regional Conference University of the Sunshine Coast, QLD. 3 JULY The Girl in History Network for Research in Women's History held in conjunction with the Regional AHA Conference University of the Sunshine Coast, QLD. 8–10 JULY Labour History in the New Century Australian Society for the Study of Labour History Perth, WA. 3–4 SEPTEMBER Journeys Through Queensland History: Landscape, Place and Society Professional Historians Association Queensland Brisbane, QLD 2010 22–28 AUGUST CISH 2010 Congress Amsterdam AHA MATTERS


We study decentralized trade in dynamic markets with homogeneous, non-atomic, buyers and sellers that wish to exchange one unit. In the first part of the paper we characterize equilibrium in a bargaining model with two-sided time varying outside options. In the second part we analyze a market equilibrium model in which (i) buyers and sellers are randomly matched in pairs; (ii) each buyer-seller pair bargains over the price of a good; and (iii) each agent has the option of abandoning negotiations, in which case the value of returning to the pool of unmatched agents constitutes an outside option. The second part is therefore an application of the first part in which the values of the outside options are endogenous to the model. Conditions for uniqueness of the market equilibrium are given; when it is unique it converges to the Walrasian outcome as frictions vanish. To the extent that multiplicity of market equilibria may (under some conditions) persist as frictions are removed, the limit of some sequences of equilibrium prices may converge to non-Walrasian values.


Thank you for downloading hoi toide on the outer banks the story of the ocracoke brogue. Maybe you have knowledge that, people have search numerous times for their favorite readings like this hoi toide on the outer banks the story of the ocracoke brogue, but end up in infectious downloads. Rather than reading a good book with a cup of tea in the afternoon, instead they cope with some infectious bugs inside their desktop computer.


Background: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a syndrome of hypertension with or without proteinuria, occurring when systolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure is greater than or equal to 90 mmHg at gestational age of 20 weeks and above in a woman who has been previously normotensive. Doppler ultrasound (DUS) is now routinely used for evaluation of accessible vessels, hence its clinical application in patients with PIH. Aims and Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of DUS of the uterine artery (UA) in women with PIH. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective case–control study in which ultrasound examination of the uterus of 400 patients (200 hypertensive and 200 normotensive pregnant women) was performed. The UA Doppler indices, resistivity index, and systolic/diastolic ratio (RI and SD/DV) were recorded. Results: The mean RI in the PIH group (0.64 ± 0.07) was significantly higher than the mean of 0.50 ± 0.06 among the control group (t = 19.922, df = 398; P < 0.0001). In addition, the mean SD/DV ratio was significantly higher in the PIH group (3.04 ± 0.67) than in the control group (2.09 ± 0.29) (t = 18.270, df = 398; P < 0.0001). The Doppler spectral waveform patterns of the UA in both the groups revealed the presence of diastolic notch in 81.5% of the patients with PIH but in none of the control patients (Fisher's exact P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Doppler parameters of the UA are abnormal in PIH, and its predictive value in PIH would be useful in the management of such patients.


In this paper,silver-sodium ion-exchanged optical waveguides have been fabricated by thermal diffusion.Also,the refractive-index profiles were obtained using inverse analytical transfer matrix method from the measured effective-index.


Mars A Warmer, Wetter Planet. By Jeffrey S. Kargel. Springer, New York, and Praxis, Chichester, UK, 2004. 603 pp. Paper, $34.95, £20. ISBN 1-85233-568-8. The author's Scientific American-level discussion of ice, water, climate, and life on Mars past, present, and future also considers human exploration and strategies for settlement by "living off the land."


The Effects of Student Directed Activities on Adolescent Alienation Raymond LCalabrese, B.A., Bellarmine College M.Ed., Bridgewater State College, Ed. D., University of Massachusetts Directed by: Professor Horace Reed This study measured the effects of student directed service activities on alienation and the independent variables of school attendance, discipline and grade point average (GPA). Student directed activities focused on engagement in problem solving, decision making, and program implementation. It was hypothesized that participation in these activities would provide opportunities for adolescents to be incorporated into the adult community. Literature reviewed by this investigator indicated: (1) the existence of alienation among adolescents; (2) the existence of alienation in the school setting; (3) inferential documentation of alienated adolescent sub groups; and (4) limited research on studies designed to reduce adolescent alienation within the school setting. This study involved 25 ninth grade volunteers (treatment group) who were contrasted with 25 randomly selected ninth vi grade students (control group) selected from the pool of 45 remaining volunteers. Test group students were involved in a 10 week treatment. At the conclusion of the treatment, 12 students continued for an additional 10 weeks. Thus, the initial study design was altered to include three groups: (1) students who continued with the project; (2) students who left the project after the treatment; and (3) the control group. Anova results using a trends analysis of repeated measures with interaction over time by group and sex indicated that students who continued with the project had significantly reduced levels of total alienation, p<.05; and isolation, p <.01, as measured by the Dean Alienation Scale. Both test groups had significantly reduced levels of discipline problems at 02, p<.05. It was also found that scores of bright (high GPA) females were responsible for the reduced levels of total alienation and isolation. There were no significant differences on the alienation scales between males in either test group and the control group. The study also found no correlation between GPA, attendance and discipline with alienation. Positive community relations and enhanced feelings of personal self worth were reported by members of both test groups.


Over 700 concrete specimens were submerged in a 10% solution of sodium sulfate for up to 2 years, and the performance of the concrete exposed to sulfate attack was determined. Several methods of evaluation were investigated to predict the sulfate resistance of concrete containing fly ash. The results show a strong correlation between the chemical and mineralogical composition of a particular source of fly ash and the sulfate resistance of concrete containing that fly ash. Some fly ashes increased the resistance of concrete to sulfate attack, whereas other sources of fly ash accelerated the rate of damage due to sulfate attack. A 2-step evaluation procedure is proposed to assist in selecting of fly ash sources for concrete that may be exposed to a sulfate environment.


Chronic kidney disease (CKD) causes severe disturbances in phosphate metabolism. The New Nordic Renal Diet (NNRD) is a whole food approach designed by our group, with low dietary phosphorus content (850 mg/day). In a 1-week study, NNRD had positive effects on phosphorus homeostasis in patients with CKD stage 3-4 [1]. The aim of the present study was to examine the long-term health effects of a dietary intervention with NNRD in patients with CKD stage 3-4 [2].

 A 26-week randomized, controlled, non-blinded trial comparing the effect of NNRD vs. non-restricted habitual diet. Patients in the NNRD group received weekly home delivery of fresh food items (free of charge) and recipes for five days of the week, and on the remaining two days they were instructed to prepare meals according to the NNRD food principles. The study was designed with seven follow-up visits in the outpatient clinic where fasting blood samples and 24-hour urine collection were delivered. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess the effects of the intervention, time, and the potential interaction between intervention and time. The primary endpoint was the difference in 24-hour urine phosphorus excretion between the two study groups. Secondary endpoints included fractional phosphorus excretion and plasma fibroblast growth factor 23 (p-FGF23).

 Sixty patients (mean age 54 years, 31 women) with mean eGFR of 34 ml/min/1.73 m2 were included. Two patients were withdrawn due to dialysis initiation. In the NNRD-group (n = 29), mean 24-hour urine phosphorus excretion during the intervention period was 651 mg (SD, 35 mg) vs. 930 mg (SD, 84 mg) in the control group (n = 29), between-group difference 279 (95% CI; -372, -91; P < 0.001) (Figure 1). Mean fractional phosphorus excretion was 11% (SD, 5%) in the NNRD-group and 14% (SD, 7%) in the control group, between-group difference 3% (95% CI; -6.4, -0.8; P = 0.01). Mean p-FGF23 was 162 pg/ml (SD, 130 pg/ml) in the NNRD-group and 215 pg/ml (SD, 230 pg/ml) in the control group, between-group difference 52 pg/ml (95% CI; -100, 73; P = 0.03). P-urea was 3.4 mmol/L lower in the NNRD group (95% CI; -5.3, -0.2, P = 0.03). P-albumin was 1.1 g/L higher in the NNRD group (95% CI; 0.02, 2.4; P = 0.04) and 24-h urine bicarbonate excretion was 4.1 mmol higher in the NNRD group (95% CI; 0.7, 7.5, P = 0.01). There was no difference between study groups in p-phosphorous, p-creatinine, p-potassium, p-calcium, p-lipids, or proteinuria.

 NNRD intervention in the context of fresh food delivery and recipes was feasible and had a major beneficial effect on phosphorous parameters in patients with CKD 3-4.


The overall aim of this study was to develop a food web that illustrated the trophic relationships that exist between the most abundant demersal fish species and their prey in waters along the lower west coast of Australia.


Contrasting of skin forming elements in optical coherence tomography (OCT) images after application of silica/gold nanoshells or titanium dioxide nanoparticles in solution is discussed. The study is performed both by Monte Carlo simulations and in vivo on animals. The result show that application of both types of nanoparticles produces contrast increase in the OCT images of skin. The increase in OCT signal level originates from the higher backscattering on nanoparticles compared to that on skin forming elements. The increase of contrast in the OCT images originates from the difference in nanoparticles concentration within different skin constituents. These experimental results are confirmed qualitatively by Monte Carlo simulations based on multilayer skin model.


Analysis and identification of watermelon ripeness is a very important link in agricultural production and melon and fruit sales, which can greatly improve the market circulation efficiency of watermelon. In this paper, watermelon ripeness discrimination was studied based on back propagation neural network (BPNN), watermelon acoustic modeling and svm classification model. In this project, mechanical acquisition equipment also was made. The reasonable circuit structure was designed to drive the automatic arm whipping machine based on Arduino control board, so as to beat watermelon and generate sound signals. 4 microphone sensors were used to capture audio information and send it to Matlab port through USB serial port for saving and preprocessing sound data. Finally, the comprehensive recognition rate reached 90.325%, which can accurately identify watermelon individuals corresponding to each signal, so as to provide scientific reference for the production and circulation of fruits and vegetables.


Among previous attempts to measure lntrasocietal conflict, the specification of the measurement model has remained implicit. This paper attempts to explicate the principal design considerations which enter into the construction of such a model (i.e., causal versus effect indicators, uni- versus multidimensions, single versus multiple indicators, correlated versus noncorrelated error terms, and additive versus multiplicative relationships). The statistical and theoretical implications of these alternative features are discussed in terms of the current literature dealing with the national measurement of conflict.


Abstract. A composition of the viscous opening and the lower leveling is introduced to extract brain in magnetic resonance imaging T1. The innovative transformation disconnects chained components and has better control on the reconstruction process of the marker inside of the original image. However, the sequential operator requires setting several parameters, making its application difficult. Due to this situation, a simplification is carried out on it to obtain a more practical method. The proposed morphological transformations were tested with the Internet Brain Segmentation Repository (IBSR) database, which is used as a benchmark among the community. The results are compared using the Jaccard and Dice indices with respect to (i) manual segmentations obtained from the IBSR, (ii) mean indices reported in the current literature, and (iii) segmentations obtained from the Brain Extraction Tool, since this is one of the most popular algorithms used for brain segmentation. The average indices of Jaccard and Dice indicate that the reduced transformation produces similar results to the other methods reported in the literature while the sequential operator presents a better performance.


The invention belongs to the field of power management and particularly relates to a small-area and ultralow-noise LDO. The LDO comprises a fore-stage pre-regulation module and a post-stage regulation module. The fore-stage pre-regulation module comprises an error amplifier, a resistance potential-divider network and an RC low-pass filter, wherein the error amplifier, the resistance potential-divider network and the RC low-pass filter are connected in sequence. The post-stage regulation module comprises a post-stage error amplifier and a PMOS pass transistor. The output of the fore-stage pre-regulation module is connected with the input of the post-stage regulation module, and the input of the post-stage regulation module is connected with a load current source. According to the LDO, it can be guaranteed that a low-pass filter circuit has very low cut-off frequency just through very small capacitance to filter out noise produced by a reference voltage source, and voltage obtained after conversion can be output with ultralow noise; meanwhile, the area of a chip is greatly reduced and the noise performance of the circuit is greatly improved; furthermore, a high power supply rejection ratio can be achieved.


Knit e-textile sensors can be used to detect stretch or strain, and when integrated directly into wearable garments, they can be used to detect movement of the human body. However, before they can reliably be used in real-world applications, the garment construction technique and the effects of wear due to washing need to be considered. This paper presents a study examining how thermal bonding and washing affects piezo-resistive textile sensors. Three textile strain sensors are considered all using Technik-tex P130B as the conductive material: i) conductive fabric only, ii) conductive fabric bonded to on one side to Eurojersey fabric, and iii) conductive fabric with Eurojersey bonded on top and bottom of the conductive fabric. The sensors' performance is evaluated using a tensile tester while monitoring their electrical resistance before and after washing. The findings show that a single layer of bonding is the ideal construction and that after three wash cycles the sensor remains reliable.


Aim:To observe neuroprotective effects of raw and roasted licorice against hy- poxia and ischemic damage.Methods:When elucidating the protective effects of raw and roasted licorice,we analyzed the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release using PC12 cells after hypoxia in an in vitro study and after transient forebrain ischemia in an in vivo study on Mongolian gerbils.Results:Raw and roasted licorice significantly reduced LDH release from PC12 cells exposed to an hypoxic chamber for 1h.In the roasted licorice-treated group,the decrease of LDH release was more pronounced compared to that of the raw licorice-treated group.In roasted licorice-treated animals,approximately 66%-71% of CA1 pyramidal cells in the ischemic hippocampus were stained with cresyl violet compared to the control group.However,in the raw licorice-treated animals,no significant neuroprotection against ischemic damage was shown.In addition,ischemic ani- mals in roasted licorice-treated group maintained the Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1) activity and protein levels compared to the control group,while in raw licorice-treated group SOD1 activity and protein levels were reduced significantly. High pressure liquid chromatography analysis showed that non-polar compounds containing glycyrrhizin-degraded products,such as glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) and glycyrrhetinic acid monoglucuronide (GM),were increased in roasted licorice. Conclusion:Roasted licorice had neuroprotective effects against ischemic dam- age by maintaining the SOD1 levels.In addition,the difference in protective ability between raw and roasted licorice may be associated with non-polar compounds,such as GA and GM.


A 33-year-old white man was admitted to a Toronto hospital after being found in an unresponsive state by his sister. He was a known drug abuser and had a history of heroin and cocaine use. It was known that he took his heroin not by injection but by inhalation of heated heroin vapours, a method


According to current estimates, high enough epidemiologic and socially significant potential for tubercidosis (ТВ) and respiratory diseases is a problem that didn't lose its relevance in the twenty-first century. Thereby, WHO has recommended a new hcmds-оп approach (strategy PAL) to provide pulmonology aid to the population. Aim: to examine the epidemiological situation of ТВ and respiratory diseases in the Republic of Moldova in 2012 2014. Material and Methods: comparative analysis of statistics from the state reporting forms. Results: by 2015, the burden of ТВ and respiratory diseases in the country remains high and it is a serious concern, despite the progress in the implementation of global challenges. It has been established that the identified significant differences in the intensity of the territorial-epidemiological situation of ТВ were determined by a combination of medical and organizational, demographic and socio-economic factors. Conclusion: Introduction and implementation of PAL strategy in the Republic of Moldova will achieve to speed up the current pace of reducing morbidity and mortality from tubercidosis and lung disease.


The problem of translating a frequency domain impedance boundary condition to time domain involves the Fourier transform of the impedance function. This requires extending the definition of the impedance not only to all real frequencies but to the whole complex frequency plane. Not any extension, however, is physically possible. The problemshouldremain causal, the variables real, andthe wall passive. This leads to necessary conditions for an impedance function. Various methods of extending the impedance that are available in the literature are discussed. A most promising one is the so-called z-transform by Ozyoruk & Long, which is nothing but an impedance that is functionally dependent on a suitable complex exponent e −iωκ . By choosing κ a multiple of the time step of the numerical algorithm, this approach fits very well with the underlying numerics, because the impedance becomes in time domain a delta-comb function and gives thus an exact relation on the grid points. An impedance function is proposed which is based on the Helmholtz resonator model, called Extended Helmholtz Resonator Model. This has the advantage that relatively easily the mentioned necessary conditions can be satisfied in advance. At a given frequency, the impedance is made exactly equal to a given design value. Rules of thumb are derived to produce an impedance which varies only moderately in frequency near design conditions. An explicit solution is given of a pulse reflecting in time domain at a Helmholtz resonator impedance wall that provides some insight into the reflection problem in time domain and at the same time may act as an analytical test case for numerical implementations, like is presented at this conference by the companion paper AIAA-2006-2569 by N. Chevaugeon, J.-F. Remacle and X. Gallez. The problem of the instability, inherent with the Ingard-Myers limit with mean flow, is discussed. It is argued that this instability is not consistent with the assumptions of the Ingard-Myers limit and may well be suppressed.


Blog posting on the outcome of the case Eweida and others v the United Kingdom of the European Courts of Human Rights


Background: The noninvasive Keratography has been used in evaluating surgery-induced ocular surface changes, while few were known about the influence of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) on ocular surface. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of PPV on ocular surface using Keratograph 5M.
Methods: 30 patients (30 eyes) undergoing primary PPV were recruited in the study. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire was performed. Ocular surface parameters, including tear meniscus height (TMH), noninvasive tear break up time (NITBUT) and bulbar redness score were obtained preoperatively, at 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks postoperatively by Keratograph 5M. Correlations between all the clinical parameters were analyzed further.
Results: The percentages of both photophobia and gritty within 4 weeks after PPV were significantly higher than preoperation, while they decreased to the preoperative levels at both 8 weeks and 12 weeks postoperatively. The percentage of sore eyes within 2 weeks postoperatively was significantly higher than preoperation, but there were no significant differences between the percentages of preoperation and 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks postoperatively. OSDI score increased significantly within 8 weeks postoperatively, but it returned to the preoperative level at 12 weeks. TMH was increased significantly at the first week after PPV, and recoverd to preoperative level at 2 weeks postoperatively. Both NITBUT-first and NITBUT-average shortened significantly within 8 weeks postoperatively, but they gradually improved to the preoperative levels at 12 weeks. Bulbar redness score was significantly higher than preoperative level within 4 weeks postoperatively, but it returned to the preoperative level at 8 weeks. NITBUT-first and NITBUT-average had a significant positive correlation at each visit. OSDI score had a significant positive correlation with bulbar redness, and TMH had a significant positive correlation with NITBUT-average at both 1 week and 2 weeks postoperatively.
Conclusions: Keratograph 5M can provide a reliable noninvasive method to assess the influence of PPV on ocular surface. PPV may cause various changes in both symptoms and signs of ocular surface damages at an early stage, while all these changes will return to preoperative levels gradually at 12 weeks postoperatively.


The utility model discloses a supporting device of a double-block track string crude regulator, which comprises a crossbeam, columns and column seats, wherein the columns are fixed on the column seats, and are arranged on both ends of the crossbeam for supporting the crossbeam; regulating pieces for regulating the height and the stability of the column seats are arranged on the column seats; the regulating pieces comprise spherical seats and regulation driving screws; the regulation driving screws and the column seats can be adjustably connected in a screw thread way, and the bottom ends of the regulation driving screws are matched with the spherical seats and rotatably arranged in the spherical seats. The regulation driving screws can be used for regulating the height of the columns alonein a certain range, and thus, the regulation of the cross scope of the double-block track string crude regulator in different height environments and lean road surfaces and the entire stability can be ensured. Because of arranging road wheels, the double-block track string crude regulator can be lightly moved in construction, and a crane does not need. Therefore, the labor strength is greatly reduced, and the labor productivity is improved.


Expatiating on system of fishery management,conservation measures of fishery re-sources,some correlational laws and codes,and philosophy of relation between fishery development and environment protection in America,the paper put forward some new conception of enhancing fishery management and modifying fishery direction in China.


This article will examine United States congressional interest, over the course of the Clinton and Bush II administrations, in the associated problems of oil and Saddam Hussein, demonstrating a ruling elite bias in favor of a stable oil market and a stable Persian Gulf imposed by the U.S. government (USG). In the run up to 2003 Congress would show how eager it was to embrace the imperial stabilization policy of Bush II, borrow money, raise troops, declare war, and repel an imagined invasion. Congress reached a consensus over the Clinton and Bush II eras, despite a few dissenters, that Saddam was in the way of American progress and affordable oil. A compliant imperial Congress voted to invade Iraq and replace its entire government and socio-political structure, stabilizing this lucrative new frontier, absorbing it into the U.S. corporatist empire.


This evidence-based pedagogical approach encompasses service-learning projects via the lens of social exchange theory in working with older adults. The purpose of this study was to examine if bachelor of social work students' attitudes changed positively after the completion of service learning projects that involved educational presentations for older adult audiences. Pre- and post-tests were administered to 90 students which indicated a statistically significant positive increase in measured attitudes. The process for the presentation projects is detailed and outlined as well as instructional advice and lessons learned regarding this pedagogical intervention.


Pneumatic transmission system structure is complex and procedural abstraction. The system can also be difficult to test the intuitive way. Effective design and test means become one of important content in pneumatic system design. This paper introduces the FluidSIM software environment pneumatic transmission system design and simulation function and design milk packing line pressure drive system. It is proved that the system is feasible.


The WT-V129_1 asymmetric unit contains one PrP molecule, exhibiting the conserved PrP fold. The C-terminal helix 3 is 3D-domain swapped with a second molecule related by crystallographic two-fold symmetry (Figure 1A), resulting in a dimer covalently-linked by disulfide bonds that is nearly identical to the WT-M129 structure (Knaus et al, 2001). A threonine-rich hinge loop (T190-F198) precedes helix 3 and contains a short β-strand that packs against its symmetry mate to form a short twostranded intermolecular antiparallel sheet. The dimer interface also includes two helices 1 which abut in a parallel fashion. Omit difference density clearly indicates the open hinge loop conformation corresponding to a swapped dimer (Figure S1A). Western blot analysis of dissolved WT-V129_1 crystals was not possible due to crystallization irreproducibility. However, Western blot analysis confirmed that the isomorphous and more easily grown WT-M129 crystals are substantially enriched in dimer (~50% of total protein) compared to the protein stock solution used for crystallization (<5%) (Figure S1C), and that the disulfide-linked dimer collapses to monomer under reducing conditions.


This paper analyzes an alternative theoretical framework in qualifying concrete growth phenomenon in Latin American region, based on the Kaldorian idea of cumulative causation. The latter is developed through two substantial mechanisms: a causal link between demand constraint and production growth, due to exportation dynamics, and a process of interaction between growth of production and growth of productivity, known as the "Kaldor-Verdoorn" law. The kaldorian growth model has been empirically tested for 16 economies over the period 1961 to 2005, with the adoption of the panel data approach. This yields findings quite conclusive insofar as positive correlations and expected values of parameters are corroborating both mechanisms. Moreover, the Granger procedure suggests bidirectional causality between growth of productivity and expansion of output. These results seem to be robust enough to make us believe that the Kaldorian growth model is appropriate in characterizing Latin American growth while cumulative causation appears to play a significant role in the region.


There are two components to this artifact. First, a we provide a mechanization of the formalization in the paper, as well as mechanized proofs of the main results from the paper. Second, we provide a full implementation of Poseidon Lua, the language implemented in the paper. Instructions for all components of the artifact are included this document. 2012 ACM Subject Classification Software and its engineering → Interoperability; Software and its engineering → Semantics


Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of symptoms of computer vision syndrome (CVS) and identify its associated risk factors among computer-using bank workers in Pakistan. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on computer-using bank workers. The data collection procedure included a self-administered questionnaire and comprehensive ocular health examination. The prevalence of CVS and its associated risk factors were investigated. The chi-square test was used to study the significance of the association of CVS with potential risk factors. Results: Of 127 participants, 95 (74.8%) were men. Most of the participants (n=53; 41.7%) were in the 30-40 years age group. A total of 101 participants (79.5%) reported any ocular symptom, with burning eyes being the most frequent ocular symptom (77.2%). General body fatigue was the most common non-ocular symptom of CVS (92.9%), followed by headache (83.5%). Out of 127 participants, 71 men and 30 women had some degree of CVS. Female participants had significantly higher risk of CVS than male participants (p=0.01). Total duration of computer use per day and duration of uninterrupted computer use were significantly associated with the occurrence of CVS (p=0.001 and p=0.008, respectively). No significant association was found between CVS and distance from computer screen (p=0.89), frequency of breaks (p=0.18), or font size (p=0.12). Conclusion: A high prevalence of CVS-related symptoms was observed among computer-using bank workers. Non-ocular symptoms associated with computer use were more common than ocular symptoms (92.9% vs. 77.2%).


Operation principle and construction of heat pump introduced;feasibility and development prospect of heat supply for buildings with heat pump motivated by mine gas discussed;primary energy consumption of heat supply with this option and other ways compared.


Because identity authentication and authorization mechanism adopt by various safe service system exist difference,this brought difficulties for their informations sharing.The emergence of Security Assertion Markup Language(SAML) solved those problems.This text introduced SAML standard,the architecture of SAML,designed an authorization framework based on SAML standard,with theSAML assertion,the framework exchange user's authentication and authorizationinformation,and realized authority sharing of heterogeneous systems.


1. Dpt of Multidisciplinary Laboratory Science and Medical Biochemistry, Genetic Unit, 13 Akershus University Hospital, Norway, and Dpt of Life Sciences and Health, Oslo 14 Metropolitan University, Norway 15 2. Department of Zoonotic, Foodand Waterborne Infections, Norwegian Institute of Public 16 Health, Norway 17 3. Dpt of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Norwegian University of Life 18 Sciences, Norway 19 4. Dpt of Microbiology and Infection control, Akershus University Hospital, Norway 20 5. Dpt of Life Sciences and Health, Oslo Metropolitan University 21 6. Dpt of Life Sciences and Health, Oslo Metropolitan University, Norway and Dpt of 22 Microbiology and Infection control, Akershus University Hospital, Norway 23 24


One pairs of primers PB1/PB2 were designed using oligo 4.1 program based on the published sequences of gB genes of IBRV.The DNA sextracted from the IBRV strains LA,Luojing,Meijing,Bartha Nu/67,B7,Yunnan-1 and Yunnan-2 were subjected to amplifying by PCR using the primers.The amplification yielded a specific band of 339 bp for all the IBRVs when using PB1/PB2.There were no specific amplifications for pseudorabies(PRV),Marek' disease virus(MDV) and infectious laryngotracheitis virus(ILTV).The PCR was shown to be sensitive and could detect as low as 3 pgs of viral DNAs.


Parametric data is presented showing the effects of combining velocity measurements with the usual position measurements in a simple form of target tracking filter. Effects on steady-state performance and filter gains are shown, as well as data on time required for convergence to steady state.


Based on the analysis of the western mode of combination of the school and the community physical education in developed countries, the present paper puts forward some exploratory thoughts on the construction of a mode with Chinese characteristics and makes a discussion on the setup of an organization, personnel structure,distribution of facilities and sources of funds.


Heuristic optimization methods such as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) depend on their parameters to achieve good performance on a given class of problems. Some modifications of heuristic algorithms aim to adapt those parameters during the optimization process. We present a framework to design such adaptation strategies using continuous fuzzy feedback control. Our framework, which is not tied to a particular algorithm, provides us with a simple interface where probes are sampled in the optimization process and parameters are fed back. The process of turning probes into parameters uses fuzzy logic rule sets, where the design of rules aims to maximize performance on a training benchmark. This meta-optimization is achieved by a Bayesian Optimizer (BO) with a Gradient Boosted Regression Trees (GBRT) prior. The robustness of the control is also assessed on a validation benchmark.


We provide a review of the latest information on the geochemistry of dispersed organic matter in the Mesozoic-Cenozoic deposits of the World Ocean, obtained as a result of deep-sea drilling. We found that in the sedimentary sections on the ocean margin, dispersed organic matter occurs in amounts similar to those in the continental stratisphere, and in the inner region of the oceans, its content is almost five times less. On the basis of the amount and the composition, the dispersed organic matter in the deposits possesses a significant petroleum-source potential. We stablished the uneven distribution of the organic matter based on horizons of different ages in the Mesozoic-Cenozoic section. Maximum amounts were recorded in the Neogene-Quaternary and Lower Cretaceous sediments. A regular increased amount of dispersed organic matter in the oceanic stratisphere was revealed in the lithologically mixed sediments: terrigenous-carbonate and terrigenous-chert, exceeding its content in clays by 1.5 times. We enunciate the possible principal geochemical distribution patterns for the petroliferous sedimentary basins beneath the ocean floor beyond the shelf.


Archives and archival activity, at least at the national level in Canada, have frequently been studied by official bodies. There were early investigative commissions into the state of records and archives in 1897, and 1912–14, discus-sion around draft parliamentary bills in the 1920s and 1930s, and substantial passages on archives in the very influential report of the (Massey) Royal Commission on National Development in the Arts, Letters, and Sciences in 1951. In the brief quarter century of the ACA's existence, there has been the "Symons Report" on Canadian Studies (1976) that devoted a chapter to archives as the very foundation of all Canadian studies; the "Wilson Report" on Canadian archives for the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (1980) that investigated the state of archives in the nation and articulated the need for a networked, co-operative system for Canadian archives; and the "Applebaum-Hebert Report" on Canadian cultural policy (1983) that reinforced the conclusions of the Wilson Report for the federal and provincial ministers of culture, resulting eventually in the creation of the Canadian Council of Archives and funding for the Canadian Archival System. And this recounting does not include various regional and provincial studies in the same period, discussions around the National Archives of Canada Act, or subsequent investigation of Canadian studies by David Cameron. The latest such report was written by John English in 1999 on the future


In this paper, a fast and effective content-adaptive post-processing method is proposed for reducing the blocking artifacts of the block-coded images. The first step of this scheme is the block classification that classifies every 8times8 block as one of the three types: plain, edge and texture, based on its statistical characteristics. Our experimental results show that this classification algorithm is effective and accurate. After applying the different filters to the three types of blocks, the perceptual and objective quality of the images are improved without over smoothing the image details or insufficiently reducing the strong blocking effect on the plain region


Prematurely born newborns, as well as those born at term, may suffer from several types of brain injury including hypoxic-ischemic injury, intracranial hemorrhage, both intraventricular and parenchymal, and injury that is the consequence of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Injury of all types can impact the motor and cognitive abilities of survivors. The mechanisms leading to disability are not completely understood. Here we discuss the role of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathway in newborn brain injury. We review the evidence that the BMP signaling pathway is activated in various injury types and discuss the downstream effects of its activation and possible interventions to curtail the effects of this pathway's activation. In addition, we identify interactions with other signaling pathways important in neurodevelopment.


Objective: To study and explore the predominant causes and patterns of injuries in burn patients. Material and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Surgical Unit A of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Pe- shawar from July, 2013 to June, 2014. The study population comprised of male and female patients afflicted with burn injuries. Patient characteristics (age, gender) causes, mechanism and percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) burnt were explored. A detailed history was taken and examination done before treatment was started. Percentage of burn was determined using 'rule of nine'. For statistical analysis, patients were divided into different groups and results expressed as means and percentages. Results: During the study period, 242 patients were admitted with burn injuries. Ages of patients ranged from 1 to 91 years. 148 (61.15%) patients were males and 94 (38.84%) were females. Out of the 242 patients, 203 sustained accidental burn injuries, while 39 sustained suicidal injuries. Sixty-four patients sustained scald burns which included 39 males and 25 females. Sixty-three patients sustained injuries from kerosene oil. Number of patients sustaining burns from electricity, flames and gas cylinders were 37, 47, and 30 respectively. Out of a total of 94 female patients, 26 sustained injuries from kerosene oil. A mean 37.06% area was burnt in female patients, whereas 36.48% area was burnt in male patients afflicted with burns. No significant relationship existed between the % TBSA burnt and gender of patients included in the study. Conclusion: Intentional self-inflicted burns, female gender, and scald burns and burns from kerosene oil would largely contribute to a high mortality rate in hospitalized patients.


During our investigation on bioactive antifungal pigments the strain Chrysosporium queenslandicum IFM 51121 was found to produce a series of darkish to reddish pigments which were identified as naphthaquinone-type altersolanols A, B, C1-3). Moreover, a new antifungal compound (queenslandon)4) was isolated as a new representative of the zearalenone family of mycotoxin. In addition to the above metabolites C. queenslandicum IFM 51121 co-produced new antibacterial compounds related to members of the dihydronaphthaquinone group5-7) which were given the name chrysoqueen (1) and chrysolandol (2). In this paper we report fermentation, isolation, physicochemical properties and the structure elucidation of 1 and 2. A culture sample of C. queenslandicum IFM 51121 was deposited in the microbial strain collection of the Research Center for Pathogenic Fungi and Microbial Toxicoses, Chiba University, Japan. The mature slant culture of C. queenslandicum IFM 51121 was inoculated into a 50ml Erlenmeyer shake flask containing 25ml of a seed medium (2% glucose supplemented BHI medium). The inoculated flasks were


The purpose of this study is to verify the discriminant function items of open tendency test instrument applied to college dance major. The subjects were applied the convenience sampling method among the non - probability sampling methods and analyzed a total of 420 samples. Data processing was analyzed using IBM SPSS 21.0, winstep 3.65 program. The results of the study are as follows. First, 8 items of discriminant function according to gender (male, female) of college dance major were extracted. Second, the openness measurement instrument was extracted from one of the discrimination function items according to the grade (lower grade, upper grade) of college dance major. Third, openness measures were extracted 10 items of differentiating function according to major (dance, ballet), (ballet, modern dance), (modern dance, Korean dance) major of college dance major.


Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a disease of the glucose-insulin regulatory system where the insulin producing beta-cells has been damaged thereby producing none to very little insulin leaving the body with no means of regulating glucose. DM has high socioeconomic costs because it needs long term monitoring and individual care to prevent or decrease complications. Uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes lead to evolution or development of microvascular and macrovascular complications. It has been shown that adequate or even tight glycaemic control can prevent or delay complications and finally can reduce these complications. One of this glycaemic control is insulin therapy, meanwhile, non-adherence to the therapy due to its sever pain is prevalent among patients. In this paper, a review of research efforts towards the development of automatic insulin injection from control engineering perspective is presented. The reviewed techniques are basically closed loop approach, which include PID controllers, Model Predictive Controllers and Adaptive Controller techniques using machine learning approaches.


Due to the increasing number of electric vehicle charging events, an enormous data volume can be generated and recorded in very large databases. A deeper analysis of the data collected by the monitoring systems could provide significant information to characterize the behavior of the electric vehicle charging stations. Unfortunately, the features of occupancy patterns or the typical power demand profiles corresponding to the charging stations are many and various and can be hard to identify and interpret without adequate techniques. In this context, a flexible clustering-based data mining framework has been proposed to extract the main features (the number of hours when there is at least one charging, number of electric vehicles, and total energy consumption) associated with the occupancy patterns of the charging stations and to determine the typical electric vehicle charging demand profiles. The efficiency of the proposed framework has been demonstrated using a database containing information from the monitoring systems of CSs installed in a city in Spain.


Introduction: The social characterization of old age can be enriched by studying the way the elderly experience it. Objectives: To know the social representation that aged people belonging to different social backgrounds have about old age, and which their support networks are. Methodology: Qualitative paradigm, symbolic–interpretative position. Method: Phenomenology and Ethnography. Sample group: people over 65 years-old from different social groups. Deliberate, snowball sampling until over-concentration of data. Analysis: Grounded Theory. Validation: observation and data triangulation. Results: We obtained a central category, "The significance of old age for the elderly and its networks". We observed that the word "old" has a negative connotation to aged people. According to them, old age is set through the diminution of physical and/or intellectual capacities. The differences in life opportunities determine how people grow old, since aging in rural areas is represented by physical limitations, while in urban groups the elderly have more resources to live this stage in a more pleasing way. Active role playing enhances their quality of life. Conclusion: "Old" has a deep sense of unease to the elderly. The differences in life opportunities determine how people age. Especially integrating


A case of a cystic lesion within the parotid gland of a 71-year-old male is reported. Preoperative image diagnosis with ultrasound sonography. CT scan and MRI indicated a benign unilocular cystic lesion in the superficial lobe of the parotid gland. A superficial parotidectomy revealed that the mass was located in the superficial lobe at the level between upper and lower divisions of the facial nerve trunk.The histopathological picture was consistent with that of the branchial (lymphoepithelial) cyst which suggests anomalies of the first branchial cleft.The clinical features, methods of pre-operative diagnosis and treatment of the parotid branchial cysts are discussed with a review of the literature.


This study aimed to determine the influence of socio-demographic and economic factors on youth alcohol abuse in Rombo District. Questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key-Informant Interviews were used for data collection. Quantitative data were analysed by Statistical Product for Social Solutions (SPSS Version 20) while textual data was analysed by thematic analysis. The study revealed that parents and peer groups have influence on youth alcohol abuse, alcohol accessibility and affordability by youths and that alcohol prices are affordable to almost everyone have influence to youth alcohol abuse. The study findings depict that existence of many types of locally brewed alcohol and many registered and unregistered alcohols selling points contribute to youth alcohol abuse. The study concludes that proper family characters aiming at curbing alcohol abuse among youth are of paramount importance, as most youth learn to drink at their young age. The study recommends that the government should enforce regulations related to alcohol use, especially that concerning selling of alcohol to the under age, as well on existences several local brews of which most of them being illegal and control of unregistered alcohol selling points is mostly challenging task, the government should impose tax on locally brewed alcohol to increase their prices, as they are so cheap, family heads and elders should be role models by controlling their drinking behaviours, especially drinking with/in presence of their children. Moreover, they should restrict their youth from drink alcohol and there should be strong punishment for under age selling and drinking of alcohol.


The occurance of COVID-19 is still increasing, especially in Banjarmasin. The increasing number of COVID-19 cases is caused by several factors, including the presence of household transmission from COVID-19 patients to other people in their homes. This household transmission can be affected by the ventilation area of the house. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the area of house ventilation and the occurance of COVID-19 transmission of at home in the in the region of Pemurus Dalam Health Centre Banjarmasin. The research method was analytic observational with a cross sectional approach. The research sample was confirmed COVID-19 patients based on PCR results and recorded at the Pemurus Dalam Health Center. Sampling using simple random sampling technique with a sample of 50 patients. Data analysis used chi square test at 95% confidence level. The results showed that there were 26 people (76.4%) of the research subjects who lived in a house with a house ventilation area that did not meet the requirements (<10% of the house area). Meanwhile, in the research subjects who lived in houses with adequate ventilation area (≥10% of the house area) only 4 people (25%) had household transmission. The analysis results showed that there was a significant relationship between the ventilation area of the house and the occurrence of COVID-19 household transmission in the Pemurus Dalam Health Center area of Banjarmasin (p = 0.001 and RR 3.24).


[1] Studying the dynamics of the North American Monsoon System (NAMS) is essential for understanding and assessing the predictability of its variability. Limited-area models are potentially useful tools for this endeavor, but it is important to first identify the suite of physical parameterizations that yields the most realistic simulations. We investigate how different convection and radiation schemes influence simulations of the NAMS produced with the MM5/OSU model. We focus on the simulated intraseasonal variability associated with monsoon onset (June to July) and changes between a wet (1999) and a dry (2000) year. We test six parameterizations, including two convection schema (Grell and Kain-Fritsch) and three radiation schema (CCM2, Cloud, and RRTM). We compare results from 2-month-long simulations to observations of circulation (NCEP Reanalysis) and rainfall (CPC and CMAP). Differences in simulated rainfall produced by the various combinations of schema are substantial, and much greater than the differences that arise from internal model variability in a three-member ensemble of Grell-RRTM simulations. The Grell-RRTM simulation produces the most realistic patterns and magnitudes of rainfall, including intraseasonal variations and the differences between the wet and dry year. Simulations using the Kain-Fritsch scheme produce too much rainfall, and fail to represent the atypical, observed decrease in precipitation from June-to-July in 2000. The CCM2 radiation scheme produces a simulated climate that is too cloudy, yielding little rainfall in the NAMS region regardless of the convection scheme used. The Cloud and RRTM radiation schemes allow for feedbacks between condensation and the water content of clouds, which yields substantial improvements in the model simulations.


Background Few data exist regarding cardiovascular risk among HIV-infected patients attending sexual health clinics (SHC) in Australia.

METHODS
The medical records of 188 patients attending an inner-city SHC between August 2013 and July 2014 were retrospectively reviewed for cardiovascular risk factors and associated screening and management practices.

RESULTS
Cardiovascular risk factors were common among attendees of the SHC, including smoking (38%), hypertension (14%) and dyslipidaemia (11%). Of the 188 patients, 23% reported using potentially cardiotoxic recreational drugs, 25% of dyslipidaemic patients were not on therapy and 10% of patients were hypertensive; none were prescribed treatment. A smoking cessation program was offered to all patients.

CONCLUSION
A high prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular disease was demonstrated. Modification of risk factors could be improved.


Thick laminates are increasingly present in large composites structures such as wind turbine blades. Different factors are suspected to be involved in the decreased static and dynamic performance of thick laminates. These include the effect of self-heating, the scaling effect, and the manufacturing process influence. The aim of this work is to study the through thickness variation of static and dynamic lamina properties in thick laminates. For this purpose, 60-70 mm thick unidirectional GFRP/epoxy infused panels were divided in sub-laminates with the help of peel-ply layers at different thickness positions. From each sub-laminate, 4 mm thick compression coupons with integrated tabs and tension coupons were manufactured. In order to characterize the manufacturing influence, the 60-70 mm thick laminates plates were monitored during the manufacturing. Static and fatigue tests were carried out for each sub-laminate in order to study the lamina properties at different thicknesses positions through the thickness. The present work reports temperature profiles and residual stress measurements through the thickness recorded during the manufacturing, as well as experimental data from static and fatigue tests (S-N curves) of sub-laminates obtained at different thickness positions.


The growing number of personal cars in cities has given rise to the problem of congestion of city streets and roads, and as a result, a lack of parking spaces in the courtyards and adjoining territories of the existing residential development. One of the factors of chaotic parking of vehicles on the carriageway of the road network is the loading of courtyard and adjoining territories. As a result of the research carried out in this article, the authors propose system solutions for the development of parking space in the residential area of the urban agglomeration.


A t a moment of fervid debate around issues of diaspora, migration, exile, and border identity, Graziella Parati's Mediterranean Crossroads: Migration Literature in Italy (Madison, Wl: Fairleigh Dickinson UP, 1999, pp. 219) is a very valuable contribution not only as a theoretical text reflecting on questions of language, criticism, nationalism, and political agency, but also because, as a literary anthology, it becomes a space for the migrants, a kaleidoscopic box ofheterogeneous voices. The editor, a professor of Italian at Dartmouth College (New Hampshire) and author of several works, I explains that it was designed to reach a mixed audience of neophytes, and of students and researchers in a variety of fields ranging from Italian to Cultural and Migration Studi es, and, I would add, Diaspora Studies. The book opens with a solidly informed introduction combining theoretical discussions of migrant identities and contextualized descriptions of the texts anthologized. The volume also provides a mixed set of bibliographical references in the footnotes, includes a comprehensive anthology of texts translated into English by various translators, and contains biographical data on the authors. Parati's is the very first volume published in English on immigrant literature in Italy, and one of the few existing on the topic both in Italy and abroad. The book provides an image of a changing Italy, thus debunking the myth of a monolithic notion ofltalian-ness (25). Parati captures the country at a crucial historical moment of cultural multiplicity derived by an intensified influx of migration from all over the world (North and West Africa, Eastem Europe, and Asia) in the past two decades. Yet, this volume is not just a prefaced compendium of immigrant literature in Italy: indeed, the editor brilliantly develops her analysis of this corpus of literature within a wide frame that includes emigration literature written by Italians abroad. Such a perspective, already adopted by other critics such as Pasquale Verdicchio and Armando Gnisci, inscribes this body of texts in a context of geographical mobility, compound cultural belonging, and plurilingualism that breaks the more usual static approach of reception of foreign subjects into a national context. Parati undertakes her exploration of cultural intersections by paying homage to a pre-colonial form of religious syncretism in the transgressive


significance local, non-Western, expression. This book makes those very non-Western, non-universal elements the tools for fashioning a more complex, rigorous, and multifaceted understanding of how the modern comes about. Focusing on the making of modernity outside the West, eight leading anthropologists, historians, and political theorists explore the production of new forms of politics, sensibility, temporality, and selfhood in locations ranging from nineteenth-century Bengal to contemporary Morocco. Topics include the therapeutics of colonial medical practice, the multiple registers of popular film, television serials and their audiences, psychiatrists and their patients, the iconic figure of the young widow, and the emergence of new political forms beyond the grasp of civil society.


Iron is one of the most frequent elements in both rocks and agricultural soils. The color of the soil as well as the visual identification of soil horizons i...


Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NAIS) is arare, potentially life-threatening disorder that results from the use of neuroleptics, a class of drugs that is being used with increasing frequency in intensive care units (ICUs). Unfortunately, critically ill patients typically have coexisting conditions that make accurate diagnosis of NAIS difficult and complicate treatment decisions. Diagnostic criteria, risk factors, and treatment options for NMS are discussed; case examples are provided.


It is challenging to study the effect of media coverage on firm financial reporting quality due to simultaneous factors that might affect both. Using a novel setting of high speed railway (HSR) openings as shocks to media coverage, we find a significant increase in media coverage when a new HSR connects both the firm and media. This effect is more pronounced for smaller firms and firms located in less developed regions. Next, we find an increase in firm financial reporting quality following the opening of a HSR connecting the firm and media. This change is positively associated with the change in media coverage following the event. Finally, our results are robust to an IV estimation instrumenting whether a firm or media is located on a HSR. Taken together, our evidence suggests that media coverage improves firms' financial reporting quality.


Having followed a pronatalist policy during the first decade of its life the Islamic Republic of Iran adopted a frankly antinatalist policy with specific demographic and health objectives in 1989. The official Family Planning Programme reintroduced since then has proven exceptionally effective by international standards. By 1997 when the last nation-wide KAP survey was conducted contraceptive prevalence rate had risen to just under 75 percent of all currently married couples most of the couples were using modern contraceptives and the traditional gap between urban and rural areas had all but disappeared. Because of the primary emphasis of the programme on women and its reliance on a cadre of community-based female health workers (in rural areas) or female volunteers (in urban areas) as family planning promoters and service providers men would seem to have been largely neglected by the national programme. Nevertheless despite their apparent exclusion Iranian men have played a major role in the success of the programme. The aim of this paper is to review available data on the relative contribution of men in Iran's family planning programme. The main source of data are the nation-wide KAP surveys conducted by the Ministry of Health in 1992 1994 1996 and 1997. Results of smaller scale but nationally representative surveys conducted in 1976 and 1989 are used to establish comparable base rates for previous time periods. Similarly small scale surveys carried out in Fars province by the authors in 1996-1997 are used to provide more detailed information on the couples using male methods. The results indicate that in 1997 male method users accounted for one-third (33.5%) of all contraceptive users its relative share being much higher (40.3%) in urban areas than the rural (20.1%). The majority of male method users (69.8% of all 71.3 in urban and 64.9% in rural areas) were however relying on the "traditional method" of coitus interruptus. In urban areas 21.0% of all male method users were using condoms and 7.7% had undergone vasectomy. Corresponding figures for rural areas are 27.5% and 7.6% respectively. The share of male method users of all contraceptive users varied considerably across the 27 provinces. For the urban population the range was from about 10% (in Ilam and Baluchistan provinces) to over 47% (in Gilan province). For the rural population the range varied from less than 3% (in Kohgiluyeh province) to over 33% in Yazd province). There is a strong positive correlation between the level of development and relative prevalence of male methods. Provinces occupying the highest position in terms of male method use score significantly higher than those occupying the lowest position with respect to such measures of development as urbanization literacy rates of men and women and access to electricity piped water gas and telephone. At the same time despite the fact that the majority of male method users depend on coitus interruptus provinces with higher male method use rates demonstrate a much lower fertility rate. If the 27 provinces are divided into three equal groups in terms of the prevalence of male methods the following nine provinces appear to occupy the top position: Yazd (40.5%) Isfahan (39.4%) Qom (38.8%) Tehran (36.2%) Gilan (33.2%) Markazi (32.2%) Semnan (30.1%) Mazandaran (26.5%) and Kerman 26.3%). In two other provinces (Ghazvin 26.2% and Khorasan 25%) too about 25% of all women were using one of the three male methods. On the other extreme the lowest rates of male method use belong to the following nine provinces: Sistan & Baloochistan (5.7%) Kohgiluyeh & Boyerahmad (7.2%) Ilam (7.7%) Kurdistan (10.4%) Ardabil (10.9%) Kermanshah (12.3%) Zanjan (12.4%) Loristan (12.8%) and Chaharmahal & Bakhtiari (13.9%). The male method prevalence rates of the remaining nine provinces fell between 26.2% and 14.8%. (authors)


Nowadays, there is a growing interest for drivers and car passengers to have adaptive smartphone applications to the driving context of the car. In this paper we present a software system that filters notifications launched by mobile phone depending on the driver's or co-driver's interests, needs or preferences. The filtering is adaptive in the sense that it changes according to the driving conditions determined by the system using data received from the GPS system and accelerometer of smartphone. The system has been developed using "separation of concerns" principle that guarantees an iterative and incremental development of system. Also, it has been tested until now by 28 users who appreciated the system's quality considering their answers on the usability test. Author