In this study, mineral nutrition status of some aromatic plants such as Foeniculum vulgare , Cichorium intybus , Brassica oleracea var. capitata , Liquidambar orientalis that are naturally spread in Mugla province and its locality and consumed by the local people, and the soil characteristics of the species were investigated. According to the results, it was determined that the species of plants spread between pH-mild acid and neutral in a loamy, salt-free and low-lime environment. In addition to this, while it was determined that plants were at high levels in terms of N, Ca and Fe contents, Zn value was found to be at a low level. In the second phase of the study, it was aimed to obtain detailed information for above mentioned local plants by using qualitative research method. It was found that there were differences in the nutrition habits of the societies due to different cultures. Local differences mostly stemmed from the yields grown in that region. One another aim is to investigate the food preparations in Mugla cuisine preferred by the local people regarding "arapsaci, hindiba, cibez and gunluk" (TR), which are among the medicinal aromatic plants found in Mugla, and the consumption preferences of these plants. The main purpose of this research was to determine the aromatic plant consumption habits of the people living in Mugla province and evaluate these consumptions in terms of health. As a result of the interviews, the recipes of these dishes, information on their preferability and their effects on health were obtained.


Abstract This paper will present a translation project with second-year bachelor students together with some observational data. The students firstly translated an academic abstract from Italian (their first language) to English by using the language resources they were acquainted with. Then they translated a second abstract by using a pre-compiled offline corpus of academic articles. The paper findings highlight that the second translations were better as regards grammar and word choices, while sentence structures still showed influences of the students' first language. The students learnt that a corpus is a useful supplement to a dictionary, as a corpus may corroborate what the dictionary suggests. The report also highlights the importance of corpus analysis training in order to help users process corpus information, which otherwise might be perceived as "distracting".


A magnetic film sensor comprises a magnetic film for generating a magnetostriction, and a magnetostrictive structure for generating a magnetostriction in the magnetic film. The magnetostrictive structure is constructed so as to generate a magnetostriction by curving the magnetic film, for example. The magnetostrictive structure is obtained, for example, by providing a depressed insulating layer having a surface formed with a depression and forming the magnetic film across the depression.


This study aims to examine the association between banks and firms in a loan. Our data set was pooled cross section data from 2014 to 2016, with long-term loans of firms listed in Indonesia Stock Exchange as a unit of analysis. We estimate our regression model using ordinary least square (OLS) estimator. The results revealed that lower-risk banks tend to associate with riskier but well-performing firms. Similarly, lower-capital banks tend to associate with riskier but well-performing firms. These results are quite contrary to previous studies conducted in developed countries. Lower risk banks have relationship with riskier and well-performing firms in condition that the amount of loan is small enough to be considered safe. Meanwhile, lower capital banks in this study, especially in Indonesia, may face the geographical problem which drives cost so high that makes banks charge higher interest to possibly riskier firms. This study makes contribution by providing evidence from a relative fragmented credit market. Future research on this topic is encouraged to look out more detail especially in the causality interpretation.


Welfare is the final goal of the process of agricultural development in an area. The consumption pattern and the amount of consumption of farmer's household is an indication of the achievement of welfare in a farmer's household. This study aims to determine the consumption patterns of shallots farmers in the Pasir Village, determine the level of energy and protein adequacy of the household of the shallots farmers in the Sand Village and determine the level of food security of the shallots farmers in the Pasir Village (Johnsson and Toole model). Methods of data analysis were carried out using percentages of food expenditure, levels of energy and protein consumption, and cross indicators of food security levels. Sampling was done by purposive sampling method by dividing the two strata, strata I were 71 farmers and strata II were 33 farmers. The results of this study indicate that the percentage of food expenditure (PF) for strata I farmers is higher at 53.53% than strata II farmers at 40.15%. Shallot farmers in Pasir Village have been able to meet the energy and protein needs for household members, but have not yet reached the recommended AKE rate for WNPG XI in 2018 which is 2100 kcal / person / day. The food security status of strata I and II onion farmers in Pasir Village, Mijen District, Demak Regency is classified in the category of food security, namely the proportion of food expenditure ( 80%).
Keywords: Consumption Pattern, Shallot, Energy, Protein.


With the exponential growth of various network resources, the use of search engine has become one of the most basic skills of everyone in today's society, and an efficient information retrieval model is also of more significance. The traditional text-based music information retrieval method can retrieve music data by inputting text information such as song name, composer, singer and album name. The content-based music information retrieval queries the target music through the input music melody information. In the actual music information retrieval scene, there is interaction between the user and the retrieval model. The user gives feedback on the retrieval results, and the retrieval model returns a new page of document according to this feedback. The existing ranking learning model regards ranking as a one-time process, ignores user feedback, and the ranking effect needs to be improved. With the increasing demand for digital music information and the continuous expansion of application fields based on massive music data sets, content-based music information retrieval method is attracting more and more researchers' attention.


The utility model discloses an axillary crutch with a telescopic leg. The axillary crutch comprises a left side tube and a right side tube. The upper ends of the two side tubes are connected and provided with an axillary support; a grip is connected in the middle of the two side tubes, the lower ends of the two side tubes are connected with a leg; the leg is provided with an inner tube and an outer tube; and the inner tube and outer tube relatively slide through a leg adjustment mechanism, the leg adjustment mechanism is capable of conveniently adjusting positions and heights of the grip and the leg so as to meet the requirements of different users. A leg framework and leg software are disposed on bottom of the leg, and thus, anti-slipping and cushioning effects of the axillary crutch are improved.


In 1816, B.G. Niebuhr, having already published his important History of Rome, was appointed by his king to be the Prussian ambassador in Rome, where he remained for some years in that office. In that period he had the opportunity to acquire a good knowledge of the Roman Campagna. With reference to the Roman (and Greek) archaeological remains which he came across in his journeys, he proposed the hypothesis that the remains of ancient centuriatio could be found in that part of Italy. Some years later, in his Italienische Reise, J.J. Bachofen, for the first time, began to consider the symbolic elements in the Roman tombs as the evidence of a stadium of ancient civilisations older than that of Roman and Greek patriarchal societies in classical times. Some years later he published his famous Mutterrecht, one of the first important works of modern anthropology.


The interest in the analysis of job satisfaction has increased among economists. Indeed, reported levels of satisfaction have been seen as a good predictor of individual behaviour such as job turnover, productivity and absenteeism. Because of this, several studies have tried to identify the determinants of job satisfaction. This paper is concerned with job satisfaction in Portugal. For this purpose, we use the first six waves of the European Household Panel Data (ECHP). The panel nature of the data allows us to use a random effects estimator in order to control for unobservable individual heterogeneity. The results indicate that wages matter for job satisfaction but do not tell the whole story. In particular, having a good health status, a permanent contract and working the public sector influences positively the level satisfaction. We also find a great heterogeneity in satisfaction by regions, even in a small country as Portugal. These findings are valid for overall job satisfaction as well as for satisfaction with specific job domains such as pay, security, type of work and hours worked. Key words: job satisfaction, wages, regions, unobserved heterogeneity JEL Code: J28


Mark Z. Danielewski's The Fifty Year Sword might perhaps be best described as an avant-garde millennial ghost story; and in classifying it as a ghost story, I carefully and deliberately hedge my words since even the author, in his introductory note, evokes yet resists this classification: "Maybe because the history of any ghost story is a ghost story unto itself, which is to say another story completely, assuming any of what follows can rightly even by considered a ghost story." Framing the novella, a haunting tale of one Halloween night at 112-year-old Mose Dettledown's party, both the repetition and generic denial is characteristic of this mischievous author's grave deceptions. Accordingly then, like a myse-en-abyme illusion, The Fifty Year Sword doesn't simply tell one story, but many (or to echo the author's own linguistic punning, "manyone" stories). There are five narrators, differentiated by colored quotation marks (in appropriately autumnal shades) though their contributions, often just a few words, construct Danielewski's fable coherently only when read as continuous monologue; this polyvocal monologue relates the party through the eyes of Thai seamstress Chintana who, avoiding the marriage-wrecking Belinda Kite, spends the evening with five orphans listening to a mysterious storyteller; the storyteller's account of his quest for a deadly fifty year sword is, in turn, encased at the centre of this tightly woven Chinese-box structure. Danielewski's novels are always (and in "all ways") structurally, linguistically, and visually daring. His debut House of Leaves (2000)—2001 New York Public Library's Young Lions Fiction Award winner—is a colossal manuscript of embedded narratives and concrete-poetic designs while Only Revolutions (2006)—a National Book Award Nominee—is an American road novel in the form of a dos-a-dos epic poem between two 16-year-old lovers that, literally, has us spinning the book around to read it. The Fifty Year Sword is no exception. In its original printing by Dutch publishers De Bezige Bij (2005), the book came in an oversized yet narrow format with twelve ghostly dot illustrations by Peter van Sambeek. Pantheon's new edition is completely reimagined: Enclosed in a solid orange dust-jacket that has been repeatedly punctuated from its inside, the cover seems wounded by the sword of the title, while seamstress Chintana seems present in the repeated textile word-play that threads its way through the novella and in the countless infringing illustrations, copied from tableaus hand-stitched by a small team that included the author. The interlacing of words, images, and narrative voices is crucial to understanding The Fifty Year Sword as a ghost story of the current milieu. A defining aesthetic feature of the contemporary period appears to be an ethical consciousness of our relationality, that is our obligations to each other in the globalizing world. The Fifty Year Sword "fortipifies" relationality in at least three central ways. First, it seems significant that Danielewski is explicit about the national origins of his two lead female characters: On the same page, he notes that Belinda Kite is "Proudly pedigreed in the bloodlines of Texas bullery" while Chintana is but a "Thai seamstress." Embodying a division between East and West in their deep-seated feud over Chintana's husband, the two might be read as a metaphor of global self and other that come together at the novel's climax in an attempt to overcome a morbid demise.


Winter and spring precipitation are expected to increase 20-30% by the end of the century in the Midwest, U.S. As a result, cows in this region are exposed to muddy conditions in pastures during late gestation. Two experiments were completed with multiparous cows and primiparous heifers to determine the energetic cost of mud during late gestation. In the first experiment, multiparous Angus cows (n = 8/treatment) were paired based on initial body weight (BW). One cow from each pair was randomly assigned to either the mud (MUD) or control (CON) treatment. Cows were housed and fed individually from d 213 to 269 of gestation. Each pair was fed to meet requirements for maintenance and gestation. In the second experiment, primiparous Angus heifers (n = 9/treatment) were paired based on initial BW. One heifer from each pair was randomly assigned to either the MUD or CON treatment. Heifers were housed and fed individually from d 196 to 266 of gestation. Each pair was fed to meet requirements for maintenance, growth, and gestation. Data in both experiments were analyzed as randomized complete block designs with repeated measurements (SAS 9.4). Although cows consumed the same amount of dry matter, cows in the MUD treatment weighed 37.4 kg less than the CON treatment (P < 0.01) and were 1.5 body condition score (BCS) units less (P < 0.01) by d 269 of gestation. Similarly, heifers in the MUD treatment weighed 43.5 kg less than the CON treatment (P < 0.01) and were 1.8 BCS units less (P < 0.01) by d 266 of gestation. In both experiments, however, calf birth weight was similar (P = 0.34). Although cows and heifers housed in mud were in a negative energy balance, they prioritized fetal growth and mobilized body tissues to meet the energetic demands of gestation.


In recent years, image recognition using artificial intelligence with deep learning has dramatically improved and opened the door to more detailed image analysis and real-time application in various medical fields [1, 2]. In the colorectal cancer screening area, real-time computer-aided detection systems can lead to significant increases in both polyp and adenoma detection rates [3]. The ENDO-AID CADe program working in combination with the EVIS X1 video column (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan) is also able to provide visual support during the screening process, making endoscopy easier and more efficient. First, we report the case of a 59-year-old woman referred to our center for colonoscopy surveillance post-polyp resection 3 years ago. She underwentmagnifying colonoscopy (HQ 190 with EVIS X1 video column; Olympus, Tokyo, Japan) and chromoendoscopy. After careful analysis, we detected an 18-mm flat sessile serrated adenoma/polyp in the transverse colon (▶Fig. 1). The Olympus computer-aided detection system revealed difficulties in detecting the lesion, even after the mucus adhering to the mucosa was washed away and after various approach attempts with the endoscope (▶Video 1). A second case of a 61-year-old man referred to our center for the same reason showed that a 6-mm flat sessile serrated adenoma/polyp was detected by the program only after washing away the mucus (▶Video 1). Despite its great value for the human eye to detect a sessile serrated adenoma/polyp, mucus could be a false friend for computer-aided detection systems and lead to less visible edges and non-detection of the elevated shape. These cases illustrate that human detection still has a role to play, but for how long? As artificial intelligence becomes more and more powerful, humans will probably have to focus mainly on colon surface exploration. In any case, artificial intelligence should always be considered a tool and will never completely replace physicians.


The mixing of multiphase turbulent flow within a column is investigated using Positron-Emission Particle-Tracking (PEPT) to understand the controlling phenomena of convection of heat towards the inside surface of its wall in the measurement of the inside-wall heat transfer coefficient by inverse analysis. This is part of a design options study initiated by Rolls-Royce for a key process in the reclamation of uranium from uranium bearing materials.
The column contains water and electrolyte and loose metallic swarf. Compressed air is distributed into the column from a perforated plate and hence the multiphase flow is gravity driven. A dynamic assessment of mixing is provided through the framework of the Reynolds-Avergaed Navier-Stokes (RANS) equation in the evaluation of stresses within the multiphase flow. Inverse analysis of heat conduction across the wall of the column provides measurement of the inside-wall heat transfer coefficient.
The mixing of swarf coincides with the convergence of the stationary dynamics of the multiphase turbulent flow measured using PEPT. Tikhonov regularisation affords the resolution of the inside-wall heat transfer coefficient of the inverse analysis. A common global gas hold-up between different flows segregates the controlling phenomena of momentum transfer and convection of heat towards the inside surface of the column wall.


Series of niobate-phosphate and niobate-silicate glasses doped with Eu 3+ ions were prepared. The emission, phonon-side band spectra and fluorescence lifetimes of these glasses were studied and the intensity parameters Ω 2 of Eu 3+ were obtained. The temperature-dependence of emission intensity of the Eu 3+-ion in these niobate glasses was investigated. The temperature-quenching rates were determined. The results indicate that in niobate glasses, as the concentration of Nb 2O 5 increases, the covalence becomes strong, the symmetry becomes low and the electron-phonon coupling strength becomes strong, thus the lifetimes become short, the nonradiative transition processes and the temperature-quenching become strong. The temperature-dependent behavior of the Eu 3+ ion was studied in various niobate glasses. The variation of the emission intensity of Eu 3+ with temperature was attributed to two factors, the thermally excited emission from 7F 2 to 5D 2 and the temperature-quenching effect. The former tends to cause the intensity of Eu 3+ increase with temperature, while the later tends to cause the intensity decrease. The temperature-quenching rates in various glasses were obtained. They increase with the increasing concentration of Nb 2O 5. The temperature-dependencies of the peak energies and the line widths of 5D 0→ 7F J(J=0,1) were experimentally determined.


Aim: Space gaining method is one of the long standing methods used in orthodontics that still preserves its currency. The space method applied as made from the approximal surfaces of teeth is among the alternative methods developed against other methods. In this study, it is aimed to evaluate the results of morphological changes formed by classical metal band stripes and air rotor stripping (ARS) over teeth between 1st and 3d months by checking Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Materials and Methods: 40 premolar teeth of 10 patients were applied stripping process using ARS and metal band stripes as a space method from mesial and distal surfaces. The mesial and distal surfaces of 40 premolar teeth were examined by extracting teeth in the 1st and 3rd months. Results: In terms of surface roughness statistically significant difference was found in the stripping process made by ARS and metal band stripes. (p .05) Conclusion: As a result of our research we were convinced that ARS system will be more beneficial in terms of patient comfort and hygiene motivation after the treatment. (Journal of International Dental and Medical Research 2009; 2: (3), pp. 71-76)


Despite the commercia and recreational importance of Pacific blue marlin Makaira n i M a m , little is known about their biology or behavior. This is due mainly to their large size and pelagic habitat and the difficulty in maintaining them in captivity or observing their behavior in the wild. However, two techniques are available to elucidate their movements: capturing and releasing marlin fitted with identification tags, and tracking of fish carrying ultrasonic transmitters. The recovery of tagged marlin has enhanced our understanding of the long-term geographical range of individual fish and their minimum rates of travel (Squire 1974, Squire and Nielsen 1983, Bayliff and Holland 1986), and growing interest in the tag and release of marlin by sportfishermen should produce an increasingly precise picture of marlin movements. However, this technique cannot answer questions regarding the vertical movements of marlin. and questions remain concerning both the survival of tagged fish following the trauma of capture and the nature of their behavior immediately upon release.


Raman spectroscopy is a non-invasive technique that characterizes the biochemical components of a sample using the Raman scattering effect. A Raman data cube is a three-dimensional set comprising two spatial and one spectral dimensions. Typically, thousand bands per pixel are captured which considerably increases acquisition times. Furthermore, many pixels capture information from a mixture of several components, thus decreasing the accuracy of substances classification. For this reason, unmixing methods emerge as a solution to this problem. Traditionally, the SUnSAL algorithm is used to solve the spectral mixing problem on linear mixing assumption [1]. Additionally, the recent theory of compressive sensing (CS) provides a solution to the excessive size of the data cube and large acquisition times. An efficient CS optical implementation is the coded aperture snapshot spectral imaging (CASSI) system which capture spatial and spectral information of scene. This paper presents the spectral unmixing process on CASSI measurements of Raman spectral images. The SUnSAL algorithm is modified to be used with CASSI images and a signature re-scaling step is added to take in account the variability of signatures by different capture set-up. Extensive simulations with real and synthetic Raman images show the accuracy of this algorithm.


In recent decades, the United Nations (UN) has directed its peacekeeping operations to be practice-driven. This has led to an alternative approach to state-military contacts, such as those provided by the United States and other nations; the UN is more inclined to consolidate and strengthen its liaisons through Intervention Brigades. The efficacy of these brigades lies in providing military assistance to UN operations and catering to logistics, training, and advice. Advocates of peace, the UN peacekeeping operations (UNPKOs) are based on consent, impartiality, and nonutilization of force (excluding times of civilian protection and self-defense). However, as Intervention Brigades gain momentum, "robust" peacekeeping is becoming more regulated; thus, promoting "force" against rebel groups and/or militias. When aligned with robust Intervention Brigades, which utilizes more force than lawfully permitted, UN peacekeeping (UNPK) missions question these operations" credibility, thus blurring the conceptual difference between peacekeeping and peacebuilding. Conspicuously, this exploits the traditional principle of impartiality using hard power and violates the International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Exemplifying through the case study of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), this paper aims to discuss the abovementioned discrepancy resulting in complications for the discipline of Peace and Conflict Studies (PCS). As the discipline promotes achieving peace through "soft" means, the paper reviews the subject under Chapter VI & VII of the UN charter and highlights the grey areas of IHL applicability in UN peacekeeping and Intervention


Blockchain is the promising technology of recent years, which has attracted remarkable attention in both academic studies and practical industrial applications. The smart contract is a programmable transaction that can perform a sophisticated task, execute automatically, and store on the blockchain. The smart contract is the key component of the blockchain, which has made blockchain a technology beyond the scope of the cryptocurrencies and applicable for a variety of applications such as healthcare, IoT, supply chain, digital identity, business process management, and more. Although in recent years the progress toward improving blockchain technology with the focus on the smart contract has been impressive, there is a lack of reviewing the smart contract topic. This paper systematically reviews the key concepts and proposes the direction of recent studies and developments regarding the smart contract. The research studies are presented in three main categories: 1) security methods and tools; 2) performance improvement approaches; and 3) decentralized applications based on smart contracts.


The CMS silicon tracker, consisting of about 17,000 detector modules and divided into micro-strip and pixel sensors, will be the largest silicon tracker ever realized for high energy physics experiments. The detector performance will be monitored using applications based on the CMS Data Quality Monitoring(DQM) framework and running on the High-Level Trigger Farm as well as local DAQ systems. The monitorable quantities of this large number of modules are divided into hierarchical structures reflecting the detector sections. In addition, they are organized into structures corresponding to the levels of data processing. The information produced are delivered to client applications according to their subscription requests. The client applications summarize and visualize the quantities received. We describe here the functionalities of the CMS tracker DQM applications and report preliminary performance tests.


Recently, the neural network model for handling the high dimensional numbers including a complex number has been proposed and studied in the field of artificial neural networks. Especially, the quaternion is focused in a number of fields such as computer graphics, because we easily express the algebra in three-dimensional space using quaternion. On the other hand, the problem which searches for a cause from an observed result is called an inverse problem, and has been studied in various fields. The network inversion has been studied as a neural network based solution for inverse problems. Recently, the extension to complex-valued neural network has been proposed. In this study, we propose the extension of the network inversion method to the quaternion neural networks.


Stand-up exercises have been advocated in the early rehabilitation program of hemiplegic patients (1). The question arose whether these exercises may be too strenuous for hemiplegic patients. As no data were available on the energy requirements of stand-up exercises, it was of interest to determine these values for normal and for hemiplegic subjects. Since in hemiplegia, a t least in the very early phase, only the uninvolved leg is available for standing up from a seated position, the present study was limited to exercises in which only one leg was used, It is a common subjective observation that it is more ditKcult to stand up from a low chair than from a high chair; therefore the role of the seat height in the energy cost of stand-up exercises was also evaluated.


Filler plays a major role in determining the properties and behavior of particulate composites. In this study a series of glass fiber reinforced polyester composites are fabricated using flyash, aluminum oxide (Al 2O3) and silicon carbide (SiC) particles as filler materials. The effects of these three different ceramics on the mechanical properties of glass—polyester composites are investigated. Comparative analysis shows that with the incorporation of these fillers, the tensile strength of the composites decrease significantly. The flexural properties, interlaminar shear strength, density and hardness are also affected by the type and content of filler particles. It is found that the presence of SiC improves the hardness of the glass—polyester composites, whereas the other two fillers show marginal effect. The study reveals that the reduction in tensile strength is the minimum in case of flyash among all the fillers. Further, the composite with low flyash content (10 wt%) exhibits improved flexural strength. It is thus interesting to find that an industrial waste-like flyash shows better filler characteristics compared to those of alumina and SiC. Moreover, being cheap and easily available, it would hopefully provide a cost effective solution to composite manufacturers.


Introduction: Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a clinical picture characterized by severe proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema and hypercholesterolemia. A retrospective study was carried out in order to describe disease pattern in newly diagnosed NS of children admitted to Tripoli children hospital during the year 2014. Methods: The medical data of 56 patients aged between 1 year and 11 years diagnosed with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome were analysed using SPSS software. The data included gender differences, sensitivity to steroid therapy, relapses withen six months of follow up and the effect of variable factors such as family history, hypertension, hematuria, serum urea on the degree of relapse. Results: Out of 56 patients with newly diagnosed NS, 60.7% were boys and 39.3% were girls, with a mean age 4.2±2.2 years. Age was related significantly to the response to steroid therapy, where 79.5% of patients aged between 2-8 years (group 1) had steroid sensitive NS (SSNS) compared with only 41.7% of patients aged less than 2 years or more than 8 years (group 2) (P<0.001). Although girls relapsed more than boys (70.5% versus 57.1%) during six months of therapy, this difference was not statistically significant. Similarly, no other factors measured such as family history of NS, hypertension, hematuria, serum complement and urea had any effect on the percentage of relapse in patients with newly diagnosed NS. Conclusion: NS is one of the commonest reasons for admission to nephrology ward. It is more common in boys than girls. The age at presentation related significantly to the response to steroidal therapy. Regarding relapses, girls seems to relapse more frequent than boys and relapses was seen more in age group 1 than group 2, however, these differences were not significant. Other factors studied seems to have no effect on the relapse rate of children with newly diagnosed NS.


Cytoskeletal proteins, including microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments, play a pivotal role in the treatment of cancer, as their regulation by small molecules arrests progression through the cell cycle.[1] Marine natural products contain a diversity of molecules that target the cytoskeleton. For instance, the cyclic peptide jasplakinolide induces assembly and stabilization of actin microfilaments.[2] The cytoskeleton is also accessed by other classes of natural products. Several polyketides, including halichondrin B and spongistatin, target microtubule stabilization,[3] while phor-boxazole B employs cytokeratin as a foundation to recruit critical cycle regulators.[4] Our interest focused on deep-sea actinomycetes[5] in an effort to identify metabolites that target other components of the cytoskeleton.


Abstract Here, I examine the legacies of Marx and Lenin for the Indian Ocean nation of Mozambique by tracing nation-building projects from the late colonial period to the present. By combining Archambault's insights concerning the 'politics of pretense' in Mozambique with McGovern's arguments concerning the development of a durable set of national dispositions in socialist Guinea, I explore the legacies of transformative projects in Mozambique and their contradictions. Mozambican socialism was an ambitious attempt to escape previous colonial practices and build a new kind of durable and all-encompassing national belonging. I argue that this attempt was, paradoxically, both successful and something that soon became mired in new forms of political pretense. I then explore the ways in which the legacies of the socialist period have continued to uphold Frelimo's rule. This is evident both symbolically, through the party's influence over what it means to be a 'modern' Mozambican, and materially, through structures of democratic centralism and the interpellation of the party, state and security services. However, the gradual decoupling of utopian ambitions and revolutionary temporalities, based on an idea of a messianic future, have sapped the coherence of Frelimo's political project, and the party's hegemony now teeters on precarious foundations.


Although there are several types of treatmenta pproaches for portal hypertension,its main goal has been toc ontrol gastroesphageal variceal bleeding.It is generallya ccepted that the non-surgical approaches such as drugs,e ndoscopy and intervention should be adopted when acuteb leeding occurred and the indications of various approachess hould be strictly managed.The surgical approaches included evasculation,shunting and liver transplantation.While livert ransplantation has been the only effective treatment method,t raditional surgical approaches such as devasculation ands hunting still lie the occupying position for a long-term in thef uture due to the difference in economy and regions.It isr equisite that the choice of surgical approaches should not bea ble to affect liver transplantation in the future.TIPS is ab ridge between controlling bleeding and liver transplantation.The reservation of liver function would decide the survivalt ime in patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension.


We study the effects of resonant magnetic perturbations (RMPs) on turbulence, flows and confinement in the framework of resistive drift-wave turbulence. This work was motivated, in parts, by experiments reported at the IAEA 2010 conference (Xu et al 2011 Nucl. Fusion 51 062030) which showed a decrease of long-range correlations during the application of RMPs. We derive and apply a zero-dimensional predator–prey model coupling the drift-wave–zonal-mode system (Leconte and Diamond 2012 Phys. Plasmas 19 055903) to the evolution of mean quantities. This model has both density-gradient drive and RMP amplitude as control parameters and predicts a novel type of transport bifurcation in the presence of RMPs. This model allows a description of the full L–H transition evolution with RMPs, including the mean sheared flow evolution. The key results are the following: (i) the L–I and I–H power thresholds both increase with RMP amplitude , the relative increase of the L–I threshold scales as , where ν* is edge collisionality and ρs is the sound gyroradius. (ii) RMPs are predicted to decrease the hysteresis between the forward and back-transition. (iii) Taking into account the mean density evolution, the density profile—sustained by the particle source—has an increased turbulent diffusion compared with the reference case without RMPs which provides one possible explanation for the density pump-out effect.


The redox properties of sulfite ion has been examind using cyclic voltammetry in acetonitrile solvent at the surface of gold, pelatin and glassy carbon electrodes. It has bben found tha, sulfite ion exhibits two electron oxidation peak with EC' mechanism. A novel chemically modified electrode containing Prussian blue complex and multi wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNs) was achieved on the surface of glassy carbon electrode by sol-gel technique. The electrochemical behavior of modified electrode was characterized by cyclic voltammetry in detail. The film electrode obtained was very stable and exhibited electrocatalytic response for oxidation of sulfite. Results showed at bare GC electrode, a small oxidation peak current was observed at about 0.663mV and a well-formed sharp catalytic oxidation peak was observed at Prussian blue complex modified electrode. The transfer coefficient (α) for electrocatalytic oxidation of sulfite and the diffusion coefficient of this substance under the experimental conditions were also investigated.


A method for analyzing of fluorescence decay kinetics is proposed. It does not use prior assumptions about a physical model of the object under study and experimental data errors. The method is based on the computing of the decay time distribution function taking into account its positiveness with additional stabilization of the solution. The fluorescence decay kinetics of different model systems have been analyzed. It is shown that the method offers the possibility of distinguishing between systems in which spectral relaxation or radiationless energy transfer occurs and multi-center systems with the absence of interaction between fluorophores. 1.


Due to the strong mobility of nodes, the possibility and randomness of network holes were increasing in UAV network, and the limited energy-carrying capacity of nodes leads to the limitation of cruising ability. The general geographic assistant routing protocols often failed to satisfy demand in the network. A greedy optimization algorithm based on Quality of Service (QoS) was proposed in this paper. The mechanism set segment points based on the route forwarding strategy, in order to optimize the detour path part, and guarantees to response the existing network holes or optimize a new network hole duly. Considering the actual situation of the stability of the UAV communication links and the limited energy-carrying capacity, comprehensive criteria based on QoS was provided for selection of nodes according to the actual application requirements. The simulation shows that compared with the GPSR algorithm and BOPF algorithm the algorithm can optimize the transmission path, reduce end-to-end delay, and improve the performance of the network.


Natural dyes produce an extraordinary diversity of rich and complex colours as well as unexpected results, making them exciting to use. Natural dyes have been used for staining wool, silk, carpet and cotton. Black mulberry (Morus nigra) has strong staining activity and a distinct flavor with juicy and acidic characteristics making them attractive for use in the processing industry in products such as fruit juice, ice cream, jelly, and jam. Aim of this study was to investigate a new staining method using black mulberry for whole mount and transverse sections staining of fasciola. Adult liver flukes (Fasciola sp.) were collected from the livers of naturally infected cows at slaughterhouse, washed with physiological saline solution. Some adult Fasciola were collected, immersed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for fixation, and embedded in paraffin for histological studies. The rest of whole mount of adult worms were collected, and then stained by the new method (dye extracted form beet root) and Carmine staining method for control. Sections, 7-10 micrometer from adult worms were collected, and then stained by the new method and hematoxyllin & eosin staining method for control. By using the dye extracted from beet root, zoologists and parasitologists can make identification and differentiation between different parasites. By using the dye extracted from black mulberry, zoologists and parasitologists can make identification and differentiation between different parasites. This dye method can be an alternative to cost and time consuming current chemical staining methods.


Higher education is approaching the point at which Science and Technology particularly Information and Communication Technology (ICT), plays a part in nearly all phases of the educational process. Every institution of higher learning uses computers in their educational programs. In many institutions, this information technology (IT) revolution has taken place without institutional policies in place. The potential educational uses of the Internet and World Wide Web add urgency to the need for institutional policies that protect the interest of participants while assuring the best educational use of these expensive resources. But one cannot be sure that all the new computers and networks appearing in classrooms will really make a difference for learners. It is still uncertain that the money and time invested in them makes a difference. What criteria to be used and how to measure success are some of the questions that raise additional questions about differences in the way we use technologies. For every success story, there are other stories about problems or unanticipated negative effects. It is so often observed that new technologies remain underused or misused. These are some of the issues this paper will consider with respect to information technology and technological values, virtues and developments in tertiary education in Nigeria.


Store Atmosphere became one of the important factors for consumers when
shopping for convenience as well be one of the considerations of consumers when
choosing a store that will be choose. To create a comfortable atmosphere of the
store it will needed some dimensions, such as dimensions cleanliness, music,
scent, temperature, lighting, color and display or layout. Chandra Super Store is
one of famous retail shop in Bandar Lampung that growing over time.
Problems in this research is whether the dimensions of cleanliness, music, scent,
temperature, lighting, color and display or layout has an influence on the consumer
repurchase intention. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the
dimensions of store atmosphere has an influence on consumer repurchase intention.
The object of this research is Chandra Super Store Tanjung Karang. The research
design is used descriptive verification. This research used multiple linear
regression analysis. To view the contribution of each independent variable
partially used t test and for hypotesis testing use F test.
The results of this research shows that the contribution of variable dimensions of store
atmosphere(X) have a role in influencing variable Y (consumer repurchase intention) was
53% and the rest is influenced by other variables.And t test results found that the variable
dimensions of the store atmosphere (X), namely cleanliness, music, scent, temperature,
lighting, color and display or layout affect consumer repurchase intention (Y).
The advice given by this research Chandra Super Store Tanjung Karang should
improve variable dimension of scent. Chandra Super Store Tanjung Karang
should put an automatic parfume periodically with a scent that could make the
consumers relax when shopping, at some point in the store so that the scent in
Chandra Super Store is fragrant and scented and can make consumer repurchase
intention increasing in Chandra Super Store.
Keywords: Store atmosphere, cleanliness, music, scent, temperature, lighting,
color and display or layout, consumer repurchase intention.


Objective:  This study presents data from a randomized outcome study comparing mentalization‐based and supportive psychotherapy for patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD).


Abstract : The polyheterocycles with perfluoromethylene bridges in the basic chain which are described in the literature are either cross-linked (structured polyperfluoromethylene triazines) or low-molecular linear polymers (polyperfluoromethylene benzoxazoles, polyperfluoromethylene benzimidazoles, etc.) For the first time high-molecular linear polyheterocycles were obtained with perfluoromethylene bridges: (Poly(bibenzoxazolediyl-phenylene-hexafluorotrimethylene-phenylene) and poly(bibenzimidazolediyl-phenylene-hexafluorotrimethylene-phenylene). These were synthesized from derivatives of alpha, omega-(di-(4'-carboxyphenyl)) perfluoropentane. (Author)


Solving electromagnetic scattering problems involving non‐uniformly moving objects or media requires an approximate but consistent extension of Einstein's Special Relativity theory, originally valid for constant velocities only. For moderately varying velocities a quasi Lorentz transformation is presented. The conditions for form‐invariance of the Maxwell equations, the so‐called "principle of relativity", are shown to hold for a broad class of motional modes and time scales. A simple example of scattering by a harmonically oscillating mirror is analyzed in detail. Application to generally orbiting objects is mentioned.


Understanding local residents' perceptions of changes triggered by the creation of a biosphere reserve (BR) is important for a reserve's successful management. This study asked 383 local residents of the Wienerwald BR, Austria, about their perceptions of changes, at individual and regional levels, nine years after the creation of the BR, and correlated these perceptions with place attachment. The vast majority of respondents perceived either no changes or positive ones in the region and for themselves. They saw the most positive impact of the BR as being the preservation of threatened landscape types and cultural landscapes. Study results revealed that local residents with stronger emotional, functional and social ties to the region perceived more positive impacts of the BR. The BR management could make use of the positive relationship between place attachment and perceptions of change, as high place attachment can be beneficial for the preservation of natural and cultural landscapes, and can contribute to greater involvement in participation processes by, and quality of life of, the local population. Profile


In recent years, significant attention has been paid to the implementation of cooperative driving by means of the integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication, which has led to a wide range of applications with the potential to enhance road safety and prevent traffic accidents. Prior to the implementation of these systems in vehicles, comprehensive analysis through exhaustive and realistic simulations is vital. Accordingly, this paper presents the effects on road safety of a variety of penetration rates of vehicles equipped with ADAS and V2V, either separately or combined, using the simulation platforms Scene Suite and Simulation of Urban Mobility (SUMO). A total of six simulation scenarios were developed, three for intersections and three for urban cases. The obtained results show that the ADAS Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) requires combination with V2V communication in order to increase safety, especially in certain scenarios with side and rear-end collisions. However, V2V alone at the lowest penetration rate already provided a level of safety similar to the one reached by combining it with ADAS-ACC.


The primary sources used for electrical energy generation are fossil fuels which cannot be replenished and hence the need for renewable energy sources is growing. The abundant availability of solar energy makes it reliable renewable energy source. The proposed work puts forward proficient approach to track the solar energy for the efficient operation of the photovoltaic based systems. An automatic single axis position control of the solar panel to track the sun from morning to evening which is connected to an AC load through a relay mechanism has been presented in this work. The position of the solar panel is changed using a stepper motor controlled by ATmega328p microcontroller. This position controlled solar panel has been used to charge a battery which is connected through a relay to a backup inverter supplying an AC load. The developed tracking system is tested and the experimental results are compared and analyzed for the static and dynamic operations of the solar panel.


[Abstract] This paper describes Mars lander design concepts that were first presented as part of the Spaceship Discovery independent research project. This conceptual space vehicle architecture for human solar system exploration was presented in 2006. The Spaceship Discovery architecture includes two types of Mars exploration landers: A piloted crew lander, designated Lander Module 2 (LM2), and an autonomous cargo lander, designated Lander Module 3 (LM3). The LM2 and LM3 designs were first presented at the AIAA Space 2007 conference. The LM2 and LM3 concepts have recently been extensively redesigned. The objective of this paper is to present these revised designs. The LM2 and LM3 landers are based on a common design that can be configured to carry either crew or cargo. They utilize a combination of aerodynamic reentry, parachutes, and propulsive braking to decelerate from orbital velocity to a soft landing. The LM2 crew lander provides two-way transportation for a nominal three-person crew between Mars orbit and the surface, and provides life support for a 24-day contingency mission. It contains an ascent section to return the crew to orbit after completion of surface operations. The LM3 cargo lander provides one-way, autonomous transportation of cargo from Mars orbit to the surface and can be configured to carry a mix of consumables and equipment, or equipment only. Lander service life and endurance is based on the Spaceship Discovery conjunction-class Design Reference Mission 2. The LM3 is designed to extend the surface stay for three crew members in an LM2 crew lander such that two sets of crew and cargo landers enable human exploration of the surface for the bulk of the 454 day wait time at Mars, in two shifts of three crew members each. Design requirements, mission profiles, mass properties, performance data, and configuration layouts are presented for the LM2 crew and LM3 cargo landers. These lander designs are a proposed solution to the problem of safely transporting a human crew from Mars orbit to the surface, sustaining them for extended periods of time on the surface, and returning them safely to orbit. They are based on reliable and proven technology and build on an extensive heritage of successful unmanned probes. Safety, redundancy, and abort and rescue capabilities are stressed in the design and operations concepts. The designs share many common features, hardware, subsystems, and flight control modes to reduce development cost. The LM2 and LM3 Mars landers presented in this paper are an integral part of the Spaceship Discovery architecture but could be used in any other Mars exploration architecture that utilizes a Mars orbit rendezvous methodology.


The impact of economic activity on the natural vegetation cover is associated both with the withdrawal of resources and the change in the ecological conditions of plant growth. Based on the assessment of wood reserves, we identified the main negative changes in the forest cover of the Altai region.


|Microwave imaging radar systems are often required for the recognition of hidden objects at various job sites. Most existing imaging methods that these systems employ, such as beamforming, diffraction tomography, and compressed sensing, which operate on synthetic aperture radar, produce highly distorted radar images due to the limitation of the frequency range, size of the array, and attenuation during the propagation, and thereby become hard to interpret the description of the object. Several methods explored for the recognition of hidden objects are based on deep neural network models with millions of parameters and high computational costs that render them unusable in portable devices. Moreover, most methods have been evaluated on datasets of microwave radar images of hidden objects with the same relative permittivity, orientation, size, and position. In real-time scenarios, objects may not have similar relative permittivity, orientation, size, and position. Due to variation in the object's relative permittivity, orientation, size, and position, there will also be variation in the re(cid:13)ectivity. Consequently, it is hard to say if those algorithms will be robust in real-world conditions. This paper presents a novel shape-based approach for recognizing hidden objects which combines delay-and-sum beamforming with an arti(cid:12)cial neural network. The merit of this proposed method is its ability to simultaneously recognize and reconstruct the object's actual shape from distorted microwave radar images irrespective of any variation in relative permittivity, orientation, size, and position of hidden object. The performance of the developed technique was tested on a dataset of microwave radar images of various hidden objects having different relative permittivities, sizes, orientations, and positions. The proposed method yielded an average reconstruction rate of 91.6%. The proposed method is appropriate for evaluating occluded objects such as utility infrastructure, assets, and weapons detection and interpretation, which have regular shapes and sizes of the cross-section at various construction, archaeological and forensic sites.


Let H be a separable infinite dimensional complex Hilbert space, and let L (H) denote the algebra of all bounded linear operators on H into itself. Let A = (A1, A2, . . . , An), B = (B1, B2, . . . , Bn) be n-tuples of operators in L (H); we define the elementary operators ∆A,B : L (H) 7→ L (H) by


Peripartum cardiomyopathy is an uncommon form of dilated cardiomyopathy that is often fatal to young women. Estimates of the incidence vary from 1 in 1,300 to 1 in 15,000 pregnancies. The diagnostic criteria of peripartum cardiomyopathy are onset of cardiac failure in the latter part of pregnancy or in the puerperium absence of obvious cause for cardiac failure and absence of demonstrable heart disease before the last trimester of pregnancy. The delayed diagnosis of this disease may be common due to the rarity of this condition. The early diagnosis and medical treatment for this disease is critical because it may affect the patient's long term prognosis. The mortality rate has been reported to be ranged from 25% to 50%. Persistence of disease after 6 months indicates irreversible cardiomyopathy and portends worse survival. The recurrence of peripartum cardiomyopathy in subsequent pregnancy remains high. The clinical presentation and treatment of patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy are similar to those of patients with congestive heart failure. We experienced a case of this disease in 25 year-old woman who had preeclampsia and preterm labor at 33 weeks of gestation. And report this case with a brief review of the literatures.


The aim of the study was to establish the influence of the month and the year of birth of gilts from the hybrid combination 'Y' ((Tai Zumu x Landrace) x Large White), as well as of the age of the first insemination on the age of the first mating, the first farrowing, the duration of pregnancy, and the total number of born piglets. The experimental animals were divided into three groups depending on the age of the first insemination (by the 249 day (n=71), from the 250 to the 271 (n=42), and after the 272 one (n=20). The average age of the first insemination and the first mating was respectively 258.8±0.78 and 276.71±3.54 days, on average. The age of the first farrowing was 391.56±3.54 on average, and the duration of pregnancy – 115.03±0.2 days. The total number of born piglets in a litter was 11.87±0.32 pigs on average. The age of the first insemination has a reliable influence on the age of the first mating and the first farrowing (p<0.001), as well as on the number of born piglets (p<0.05). The month (p<0.001) and the year of birth of the gilt pigs (p<0.05) have reliable influence on the age of the first insemination.


Several deconvolution methods common in X-ray diffraction profile studies have been examined using an eigen-system analysis in which an error-bound function is used to represent the maximum difference between the solution and true specimen profiles. This approach quantifies the sources of misfitting and ill-conditioning that appear in the solution profile and expresses them as a function of the control parameter for a particular method. A simulation of an instrument-broadened profile overlaid with random noise and background signals was used to evaluate the error-bound function for the iterative and constrained deconvolution methods, and the properties of the error-bound function were related to the features of the solution profile for each method. This analysis quantifies the terms that contribute to the ill-conditioning of the solution profile. It shows that, even for optimum values of the control parameters, positivity is not preserved and spurious oscillations are present in the solution profile.


Corporate social responsibility activities influence the stakeholders in the first place, hence the employees, one of the vital stakeholders of the organizations. Social responsibility activities can have a direct effect on the job satisfaction and organizational commitment of employees. This paper investigates the employees' perception on corporate social responsibility, and examines the effect of this perception on organizational commitment and job satisfaction. Hence, the individual factors that have an impact on this perception, namely gender, age, education level, the hierarchical position in the organization, the working time and the participation to the company's social responsibility projects, are considered. The data collection is through a survey conducted among the employees of Turkish Petroleum Refineries Corporation (TUPRAS), the third most profitable and the largest private firm quoted to the Borsa Istanbul. From the findings obtained through chi square, t-test and ANOVA, one can observe an insignificant relation between organizational commitment and job satisfaction, and perceptions of corporate social responsibilities.


Structure Ef6ciency: An Incentive Mechanism Approach We comparc etficiency implications of two team production models involving problems of tcam moral hazard and adverse selection. The models. formalized in a generalized principal Jmultiplc-agent framework, differ only in the underlyingowner- ship structures, one characterized by absentee ownership, the o[her by cooperative ownership. Explicit comparison ol'optimal contractual solutions suggesu that, even if a hrm is viewed as a nexus ofcomplete contracts, the ownership structure of the firm matters for its economic efficiency. In this context, the cooperatíve firm can achieve first-best production efficiency, whereas the absentee-owner's firm cannot. Related issues are discussed throughout the paper. J. Contp. Lc'nnunt.. September 1992. 3), pp. 399-431.


X-ray absorption spectroscopy performed on a CuFeO2 single crystal reveals the pivotal role of the Cu ions in the discussion of the anisotropic properties of the compound. In particular, it is shown that there is a 3d hole density on the nominal 3d(10) Cu+ ions which may lie at the origin of the intriguing low temperature magnetic properties of CuFeO2. In addition, the finding has important consequences regarding the field-induced ferroelectricity of the system.


Background: Postural deformities can cause changes in spinal curvatures patients with ankylosing spondylitis. In these patients, preventive and therapeutic approaches are needed for spinal deformities (1). Positive effects of the spinal stabilization exercises are manifested in reducing pain, maintaining mobility, improving posture, increasing aerobic capacity and improving quality of life (2). Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of stabilization exercises on spinal curvatures in s ankylosing spondylitis patients. Methods: Twenty-eight ankylosing spondylitis patients (25 females, 3 males) with a mean age of 30.87 ± 9.13 years were included in the stabilization exercises program. The patients performed spinal stabilization exercises two days a week for six weeks. Stabilization training includes training of deep muscles providing diaphragmatic breathing, neutral spine position control training and local motor control, and motor control training of global muscles, dynamic stabilization exercises and strengthening training. Thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis curvature of patients in an upright position were evaluated with Spinal Mouse (SM) device before and after therapy program. The SM device is a reliable, valid, safe, quick method that can be used in the clinics and researches of the adults with no side effects. Results: At the end of 6 weeks of treatment, there was a decrease in the total curvature degree of the thoracic vertebrae in the sagittal axis (p=0.026). No significant difference was found in the lumbal region (p= 0.109). Conclusion: Stabilization exercises are effective in reducing thoracic kyphosis in patients with ankylosing spondylitis patients. The use of these exercises in treatment programs will contribute significantly to improving spinal alignment and preventing postural deformities. References: [1]Grazio, S., Grubisic, F., & Brnic, V. (2019). Rehabilitation of patients with spondyloarthritis: a narrative review. Medicinski Glasnik, 16(2). [2]Gunay, S. M., Keser, I., & Bicer, Z. T. (2018). The effects of balance and postural stability exercises on spa based rehabilitation programme in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Journal of back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation, 31(2), 337-346. Disclosure of Interests: : None declared


The problem of this study was to determine the professional preparation, playing experience, and involvement in professional organizations of secondary school coaches in Northeast Texas. This information was presented in such a manner that comparisons might be made with recommendations for certification of high school coaches by the American Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation. The findings of the study seem to warrant several basic conclusions. Degree requirements, playing experience, and professional activities of the coaches appeared adequate. The coaches' professional preparation in physical education seemed inadequate according to the recommendations for certification.


In this study, the effect of the radiation damage of spent fuel-grade plutonium content was investigated in the structural material of a designed fusion–fission hybrid reactor system. In this study, the molten salt-heavy metal mixtures 99–95% Li20Sn80–1–5% SFG-Pu, 99–95% Li20Sn80–1–5% SFG-PuF4, and 99–95% Li20Sn80–1–5% SFG-PuO2 were used as fluids. The fluids were used in the liquid first-wall, blanket and shield zones of the designed hybrid reactor system. Four centimeter thick 9Cr2WVTa ferritic steel was used as the structural material. Proton, deuterium, tritium, He-3 and He-4 gas production rates are the parameters of radiation damage. In this study, damage to the total structural material and each 1.0 cm thickness thereof was measured as a function of radiation energy, using the selected fluid rates, for 30 full power years (FPYs). Three-dimensional analyses were performed using the most recent MCNPX-2.7.0 Monte Carlo radiation transport code and the ENDF/B-VII.0 nuclear data library.


More than 14000 fragments of common use bronze objects found more than 130 years ago in the so-called "Ripostiglio di San Francesco" (St. Francesco hoard), in Bologna, analysed by a portable EDXRF, requiring a chemometrics analysis of the metal alloy constituents (Cu, Sn, Pb, Fe, Sb, Ag, As) to try to identify the different composition in function of the destination of use.


Two techniques for on-line particle size measurement are evaluated on the reproducibility of their volume distribution determinations. A forward scattering laser light devise is interfaced with a dilutor to examine the potential of this technique for high concentration streams. The forward scattering instruments are capable of outputting extremely reproducible distributions and here we show that when the dilutor is well designed, the on-line instrument can have similar performance. We compare this with a scanning back scatter instrument which is directly inserted in highly concentrated slurries. We present the methods used to improve the robustness of the conversion of the output of the back scatter instrument to volume distributions. The output of the back scatter instrument is inherently less stable but with the proper methods one can obtain reproducibilities of the order of 2 to 6 percent.


Prudential Equity Group had downgraded Danaher to underweight status, citing concerns over its inadequate organic growth. By March 2009, its CEO wondered how to keep growing a company that faced changing worldwide economic circumstances, pressure from low-cost competitors, new competitors, flat or declining demand for company products, price increases for certain raw materials, and criticism from market analysts.


The study of peer group status typically involves examination of peer nominations received. In this study, the focus was on nominations given and received. We examined the degree to which middle school students from different ethnic groups demonstrate same-ethnicity preferences in their peer nominations, the effects of the classroom ethnic composition on these preferences, and the association between same-ethnicity preferences and social standing. Latina/o, Asian, and White students demonstrated a positive same-ethnicity bias (i.e., greater acceptance and less rejection of same-ethnicity peers) whereas African-American students demonstrated a global same-ethnicity bias (i.e., they were more likely to nominate African-American students in general). All students made more nominations to same-ethnicity peers when there were larger numbers of same-ethnicity peers in the classroom. Students who made more acceptance nominations to same-ethnicity peers were more accepted among same-ethnicity peers and less accepted among other-ethnicity peers. The significance of the ethnic context to understanding students' peer status and the benefits and costs of same-ethnicity biases are discussed.


A series of different concentration and ratio nutrients (N、P) enrichment grow-out experiments were conducted at Photosynthesis Fisheries Co. Ltd., Panjin,Liaoning province, from April to July 2002, to assess the effect of different fertilization on phytoplankton species composition, total biomass of phytoplankton in polysaline water ponds. The water type was chloride water type. The concentration of nutrients (nitrate, nitrite, ammonium and phosphate) rebounded periodically along with fertilization. A total of 35 species of phytoplankton and 9 species of zooplankton was identified.The biomass of phytoplankton reached a peak 8~9 days after fertilization, and averaged in 188.76 mg/L with a peak of 282.7 mg/L during this period, in sharp contrast with the control pond, where biomass of phytoplankton was only 31.75 mg/L in average. The accumulation of nutrients boosted the development of dominant species, and choked back other species simultaneously. Chlorella and Isochrysis could be induced with different chemical fertilizer. We could culture useful algae in brackish water ponds with chemical fertilizer in north China.


The Journal of Physical Chemistry is published by the American Chemical Society. 1155 Sixteenth Street N.W., Washington, DC 20036 Conformational preferences of phosphodiester torsion angles in dimethyl phosphate anion in free space and water: quasi-harmonic Monte Carlo and hydration shell calculations B. Jayaram, G. Ravishanker, and D. L. Beveridge J. Phys. Chem., 1988, 92 (5), 1032-1034• DOI: 10.1021/j100316a009 • Publication Date (Web): 01 May 2002 Downloaded from http://pubs.acs.org on February 25, 2009


This study aims at examining the institutionalization of local associations of labor, management, government and community as an integrated employment and labor governance. This research empirically analyzed three Gwangju four party associations established in Gwangju metropolitan city, Gwnagju Bukgu,and Gwangju Gwangsangu. Findings of this research and policy suggestions are as follows. First of all, the new governance of the local associations is changing to an "associational model" in which negotiations and concertation are the main principles for coordination. Secondly, major parties in the local associations show limited capabilities and representativeness in fully utilizing the "associational model". Thirdly, low recognition of the local associations among the interest groups could incur lack of legitimacy of the local associations. Fourthly, Strong policy supports from the local and the national level are needed in order to strengthen the structure of the association and the capacities of the concerned parties as well.


Embedded software requires high quality to meet customer requirements and to achieve product competitiveness. Testability Maturity Model (TMM)and Test Process Improvement (TPI) are recommended to improve test activities, which are important for product quality. However, TMM and TPI in themselves are not appropriate for embedded software since they are lack of consideration on embedded software. This paper deals with the properties of embedded software and industrial challenges based on existing model and we suggest Embedded Test Process Improvement Model (Emb-TPI). Emb-TPI considers practical improvement strategies for the quality of embedded software and focuses on evaluation procedures that achieve cost-effectiveness and valid evaluation results.We present the results of applying Emb-TPI to product development division (PDD) to prove that the model is valid. Emb-TPI provides methods to evaluate test activities in embedded software development and helps to reveal insufficient areas of test activities, which ultimately improves test capabilities.


The occurrence of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in the municipalities of Jaboti, Japira, Pinhalão, and Tomazina in the North Pioneer of the State of Paraná, where this disease is endemic, prompted the investigation of sandfly fauna, their population changes throughout the year, and their behavior in and around human accommodation. In these municipalities, the collection of sandflies was conducted using Falcão traps from 7 pm to 6 am once a month. 32,994 sandflies, 18,442 males and 14,552 females, were collected and represented by the species Brumptomyia brumpti, Brumptomyia cunhai, Evandromyia correalimai, Evandromyia cortelezzii, Expapillata firmatoi, Micropygomyia ferreirana, Migonemyia migonei, Nyssomyia neivai, Nyssomyia whitmani, Pintomyia fischeri, Pintomyia monticola, Pintomyia pessoai, and Psathyromyia bigeniculata. Ny. neivai (SISA = 0.9808) predominated in Japira (46.9%), Pinhalão (53.1%), and Tomazina (38.9%), while Ny. whitmani (SISA = 0.9423) predominated in Jaboti (53.8%). Most sandflies were captured in domestic animal shelters, with a peak in September. The high number of sandflies collected in domestic animal shelters, species richness, and presence of species involved in the epidemiology of CL reveal the need for permanent entomological surveillance in the municipalities mentioned. The use of phlebotomine control measures in these municipalities should be considered in conjunction with the anthropogenic actions that have resulted in changes to sandfly fauna and behavior. A R T I C L E I N F O Article history: Received 30 July 2020 Accepted 04 October 2020 Available online 06 November 2020 Associate Editor: Diana Grisales Ochoa


This paper proposes a new approach for surface modeling. Considering that a surface is described by an atlas of overlapping disk-like patches, this model creates a joining set of implicit surfaces in order to obtain the resulting whole surface. Topological constraints linked to classical models decrease and the geometry of complex surfaces can be easily and naturally described.


Large and powerful ground-based very low frequency (VLF) transmitters, which operate from 17 kHz to 25 kHz with power ranging from several 100s to 1000 kilo-Watts, have been utilized for maintaining long distance communication with submarines for decades dating back to the era before World War I. The transmitters at various locations are often denoted by three letter call sign of Naval VLF transmitter, according to their locations, such as NWC for North West Cape. The long distance communication is realized by VLF wave propagation in the waveguide mode between the Earth and the ionosphere (100-1000 km altitude), which is the lower portion of the ionized upper atmosphere. A fraction of the radio wave power can leak through the ionosphere into the near-Earth geospace environment known as the magnetosphere (~1000 km and above), where VLF signals propagate in the whistler-mode. In the ionosphere, VLF transmitter emissions can cause ionospheric perturbations, particle precipitation and heating. In the inner magnetosphere, VLF transmitter waves can resonate with energetic electrons and contribute to the loss of energetic electrons in radiation belts.


This thesis seeks to establish whether Australia's manufacturing competitiveness improved during the Hawke-Keating period of government (1983-1996), based on its performance prior to 1983. To achieve this aim it was necessary to identify what are the key characteristics impacting on competitiveness, and indeed, how do these factors interact? Importantly, the review was conducted from a broad-based strategic management perspective and not from an econometric standpoint. As a means of determining the above a detailed examination of the development of competitiveness was undertaken. It was found there was no single determinant insofar as, competitiveness cannot be attributed to one specific aspect, but is in fact influenced by a number of factors acting simultaneously. This involved a review of the informed contributions reflecting the development of competitiveness. Findings suggested the roots of competitiveness could largely be traced back to the doctrine of comparative advantage. However, much of this thinking was inevitably surpassed, when the correlation between competitiveness and strategy was better understood. Thus, in terms of manufacturing, this demanded the analysis of factors which appeared to independently and jointly influence competitiveness. It also showed within the manufacturing sector there was an inextricable link between productivity, increased competitiveness and growth. The contribution to the assessment of competitiveness by Professor Michael Porter was also studied in detail. The application of his work was examined with a view to the appropriateness of using his Determinants of National Advantage model in an Australian manufacturing context. Notably, this model provided a process which consistently explained the unique differences between participants within industrial environments. It also facilitated the identification of specific reasons for failure within an industry, which if left unchecked impacted on a nation's competitiveness. Relative to competitiveness and, to the significance of Porter's theories, an amended version of the 'Diamond Model' was considered more appropriate for this thesis.


Forest vertical canopy cover (VCC) is an essential factor to be considered during forest resource inventory, sub-compartment division and thinning intensity. In order to monitor the forest canopy structure changes over the Greater Khingan, two temporal (2005 and 2010) forest VCC are derived by inverting the Li-Strahler geometric-optical model (GO) based on the extracted endmembers. The results show that the estimated VCC based on GO model agrees well with the measurements from the national forest inventory data with R20052=0.64, MSE2005=0.32%; R20102=0.74, MSE2010=0.25%.


Characterization is traditionally regarded as a preliminary step existing in the conflict of laws and needs to be resolved before applying conflict rules. The United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Carriage of Goods Wholly or Partly by Sea (Rotterdam Rules) firstly unifyied the characterization of carrier and controlling party of goods from international law. This illustrates that characterization and the conflict of characterization do not only exist in the course of choosing conflict rule,but also in the course of choosing applicable law. We should make a point of study secondary characterization as it exists objectively.


The Mossbauer spectrum of 170Yb in cubic CszNaYbC16 has been measured as a function of temperature and external field. The hyperfine spectrum due to T6 CEF level, which is the ground state in this compound, is strongly influenced by small magnetic fields. The details are described using a Breit-Rabi diagram. The spin relaxation time of Yb3+ is strongly dependent on the external field but is independent of temperature up to 20 K.


Preface. Part I: Fair Pay. Chapter 1: Same Problems, Different Context. Chapter 2: Shareholder Value: A Good Indicator of Long-Term Success. Chapter 3: The Anatomy of Performance-Adjusted Compensation (PAC). Chapter 4: The Performance and Pay Alignment Zone. Chapter 5: The Alignment Report. Chapter 6: From Maligned to Aligned. Chapter 7: Patterns of Misalignment. Part II: Fair Play. Chapter 8: The Root Causes of Misalignment. Chapter 9: Aggressive Target Pay. Chapter 10: Turbo-Charged Upside. Chapter 11: Conventional Goal-Setting. Chapter 12: Short-Term Gain Long-Term Pain. Chapter 13: Flattening the Curve. Chapter 14: Ad Hoc Decisions. Chapter 15: Decision-Making Influences. Chapter 16: Creating and Maintaining Alignment. Epilogue: Holding Companies Accountable. Appendix A: Analytic Methodologies. Appendix B: GICS Sectors. Appendix C: List of Interviewees. Notes. Acknowledgments. The Author.


Objective:  To compare the levels of TNF- α  and IL-1 β  in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) during early leveling stage of orthodontic treatment.  Material and Methods: This study was carried out on 20 orthodontic patients, including 10 teenagers and 10 adults. Before bonding, GCF was collected with a paper strip in gingival sulcus of maxillary right central incisor on the disto labial aspect for 60 seconds, followed by bonding and insertion of initial 14 NiTi archwire. GCF collection was repeated 24 hours, 7 days, and 28 days after bonding. Measurement of TNF- α  and IL-1 β  levels was done utilizing Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Data were analyzed in SPSS using repeated measurement test .  Results: Concentration of TNF- α  and IL-1 β  increased after treatment. There was no significant relationship between TNF- α  and IL-1 β  concentrations subsequent to bonding in comparison to the baseline. There was no significant relationship in TNF- α  and IL-1 β  level changes in the two age groups and between males and females .  Conclusion:  Concentration of TNF- α  and IL-1 β  increased after treatment. Age and sex had no statically significant effect on the concentration of TNF- α  and IL-1 β .


In Chilcotin, an Athapaskan language of northern British Columbia, surface alternations of vowels are determined by a process called "flattening" (Krauss 1975, Cook 1976a). So far, the process of flattening, and indeed almost all other aspects of Chilcotin phonology, remain virtually unknown to phonologists in general. In this article, I provide a descriptive introduction to Chilcotin flattening. The first two sections describe the vowel and consonant systems, respectively, in terms of autonomous phonology, and the third section describes the flattening process and introduces some of the theoretical issues associated with it.


Injection molding process is increasingly more significant in today's plastic production industries because it provides high-quality product, short product cycles, and light weight. This research optimizes the performance of this process with three main quality responses: defect count, cycle time, and spoon weight, using the weighted additive goal programming model. The three quality responses and process factors are described by appropriate membership functions. The Taguchi's orthogonal array is then utilized to provide experimental layout. A linear optimization based on the weighted additive model in goal programming model is built to minimize the deviations of the product/process targets from their corresponding imprecise fuzzy values specified by the process engineer's preferences. The results show that the average defect count is reduced from an average of 0.75 to 0.16. Moreover, the average cycle time becomes 13.06 seconds, which is significantly smaller than that obtained at initial factor settings = 15.10 seconds. Finally, the average spoon weight is exactly on its target value of 2.0 gm.


This paper presents a precise definition of basic relational notions as well as a precise and general definition of the relational algebra. The paper also illustrates a method for developing semi-formal definitions of data models. A nearly formal definition of relations with unordered attributes is given, and algebraic operations are described as operating on and producing relations thus defined. The definition of algebric operations contains, as a special case, the "classical" definition of the algebra (see e.g. [CODD72]). But, in addition, several operations are generalized. The closure of the algebra is characterized precisely, with the help of an operation for renaming relation attributes.


Aircraft equipment cabin noise will not only affect the comfort of passengers, but also affect the normal operations of the internal equipments of the aircraft, or even result in fatigue and damage to the aircraft structure itself. In the design, only to add ribs onto the panel or conduct structural-acoustic optimization on the ribs will dramatically increase the structural weight. In this paper, frequency response analysis was carried out on the structural-acoustic coupling system of the cavity panel. The cabin door panel was divided into six regions by ribs. Then, the lightweight optimization model of the cabin door panel was eventually established, with the cabin door panel thicknesses of each region and the cross-sectional areas of the ribs as the design variables, and the average sound pressure of the structural-acoustic coupling system as the constraint condition. And subsequently, the cabin door panel structure with the minimum mass and satisfying the sound pressure constraint condition was eventually obtained through genetic algorithm (GA). Moreover, so as to lighten the optimization burden, the finite element simulation model of the cabin door panel was substituted by the Kriging meta-model during the optimization process to evaluate the sound pressure response of the structural-acoustic coupling system. Furthermore, in order to narrow the difference between the meta-model and the physical one, the optimization idea of the variable-complexity model (VCM) was employed. As a result, the analysis result of the highly accurate simulation model was utilized to modify that of the Kriging meta-model. Overall, the work in this paper has an important engineering guidance value for the weight and noise reduction design of panel structure with ribs.


With the increase in the prevalence rate of alcohol consumption and its multifacet pathological effects and also because the postmortem variance of ethanol concentration recorded from its antemortem values in the animals and the human corpses, due to its postmortem production/loss to a large extent, this study has been carried out to estimate the amount of alcohol preserved in blood stored under our environmental conditions for different durations to find out its antemortem concentration, at the moment of death.


We propose a random solution model for cubic BCxN (0.21<x<19.28) crystals and compute the formation energies, elastic moduli and bandgaps for different compositions. Significant deviations of the elastic moduli and lattice parameters from the predictions of Vegard's law reveal that the BCxN solid solutions are not a simple mixing of diamond and cubic-BN. The computed bandgaps are substantially lower than those of diamond and BN. Compared to BC2N, the BCxN solids with higher carbon content (x>2) exhibit better structural stability and higher elastic moduli, making them more attractive as potential superhard materials.


Precise synthesis of porous materials is essential for their applications. Self‐assembly is a widely used strategy for synthesizing porous materials, but quantitative control of the assembly process still remains a great challenge. Here, a quantitative coassembly approach is developed for synthesizing resin/silica composite and its derived porous spheres. The assembly behaviors of the carbon and silica precursors are regulated without surfactants and the growth kinetics of the composite spheres are quantitatively controlled. This assembly approach enables the precise control of the size and pore structures of the derived carbon spheres. These carbon spheres provide a good platform to explore the structure–performance relationships of porous materials, and demonstrate their pore structure‐dependent performance in catalytic water decontamination. This work provides a simple and robust approach for precise synthesis of porous spheres and brings insights into function‐oriented design of porous materials.


Within the broadly understood concept of Industry 4.0, many intelligent systems featuring artificial intelligence are used. Their importance in recent years has been growing. That can be attributed to a number of notable advantages these systems provide, including the possibility of expanding the manufacturer's offer, greater customization of products, which facilitates reaching niche markets, as well as better internal and/or external communication (between the company and the consumer). Six such systems are brought into focus: The Internet of Things, Data Base, Cloud Computing, Blockchain, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and SMAC (Social, Mobile, Analytics, Cloud). The aim of the study was to assess their relevance and impact on the market position of enterprises in Poland. The analysis is based on the research carried out by the authors in 2020 on a sample of production companies that use logistic supply chains in their operations. The conclusions are to some extent surprising, e.g., the companies do not believe that implementing intelligence systems gives them significant market advantage nor that the positive impact of these systems depends directly on the number of systems used.


List of plates, List of figures, List of journal abbreviations, Notes on Contributors, Acknowledgements, 1. Introduction, Dominic Montserrat, Part I: Perfect Bodies, Imperfect Bodies, 2. Disabling Bodies, Nicholas Vlahogiannis, 3. The Dynamics of Beauty in Classical Greece, Richard Hawley, Part II: Bodies and Signs in Latin Literature, 4. Exuvias effigiemque: Dido, Aeneas and the body as sign, Angus Bowie, 5. Bodies in Flux: Ovid's Metamorphoses, Penelope Murray, Part III: Modifying the Early Christian Body, 6. Bodies and blood: Late Antique debate on martyrdom, virginity, and resurrection, Gillian Clark, 7. Reading the Disjointed Body in Coptic: from physical modification to textual fragmentation, Terry Wilfong, Part IV: The Ancient Body's Trajectory through Time, 8. The Irresistible Body and the Seduction of Archaeology, Lynn Meskell, 9. Unidentified Human Remains: mummies and the erotics of biography, Dominic Montserrat, 10. Nacktleben, Jane Stevenson


Abstract African American youth are often stereotyped as being more aggressive than and experience more severe negative social sanctions relative to their European American peers. This cross-sectional study assessed self-reported levels of aggression among a sample of 538 low-income African American youth in Chicago, and employed latent class analysis to determine groups of aggression. Major study findings showed low, middle high aggression group. The largest number of youth fell within the low aggression group. Social factors (e.g., low student-teacher connectedness, high risky peer norms, neighborhood violence, and family conflict) were associated with inclusion in the high aggression group. Intrapersonal factors (e.g., depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder) were associated with inclusion in the middle aggression group. Future longitudinal research should examine what factors are associated with movement across aggression groups and capitalize upon knowledge gained in the current study to develop interventions.


The policies and collaborations between governments and civil society that kept forests standing in many parts of Amazonia have come to an end, at least for now.


This paper examines the effect that Mexico's Telecommunications Reform (2013-2016) has had on the adoption of the main telecommunications services, namely land line, mobile and broadband Internet services. The implementation of the Reform began in 2013 with the aim of fostering competition and thereby bridging the market efficiency gap. It also proposed a significant shift in policy on digital inclusion by launching a scheme to provide a universal broadband service. This service would be based on newly developed infrastructure and a wholesale shared network, operated through a public-private partnership, in order to bridge the access gap (2013-2018).

In a previous paper presented at TPRC44, we described some of the effects that the Reform had on market concentration and on the observed variation in the prices of telecommunication services. In addition, we analyzed the impact of these price changes on income distribution and consumer welfare.

The present study intends to add analytical value to the econometric models adopted in our previous work. These new models include additional variables relating to economic and institutional environments and educational achievement, allowing for a more robust assessment of the Reform's impact on both the end consumer and the economy as a whole.

Specifically, this new analysis seeks to answer three main questions.

Firstly, it aims to find out what effect the Reform has had on the adoption of telecommunications services. This analysis also includes a set of control variables related to the economy and institutional environment and the level of education attained by the population (2006-2016).

Secondly, it aims to identify the potential effects on levels of inflation in the economy brought about by the Reform and subsequent decreases in the prices of the main telecommunication services. Increased competition in the telecommunications markets is conducive to a reduction in prices for these services, even when the growth of the economy and exchange rate variations (Mexican pesos to US dollars) over the same period are taken into account.

The third question is an international comparison. We seek to determine how improvements in teledensity in Mexico compare to other Latin American countries with similar economic and institutional conditions which have not undergone a telecommunications reform as in the case of Mexico.

Hypothesis and Models

In relation to the questions raised above, we propose the following three hypotheses:

H1: The Reform has had a positive and significant effect on the adoption of land line, mobile and broadband Internet services. In order to test this hypothesis we propose the following model:

St = β1 β2Reft β3Edu1t β4 Edu2t β5 Gdpt β6It β7Ginit β8Instit e

Where:

St = Number of subscriptions per 100 inhabitants.

Reft = Presence or absence of the Telecommunications Reform (dummy variable).

Edu1t = High School Enrollment
Gdpt = Gross National Product (GNP) at constant market prices.

It = Investment in the telecommunications sector at constant market prices.

Ginit = Gini coefficient (as a measure of income distribution).

Instit = The quality of democratic institutions and rule of law index.

H2: The Reform has had a significant downward effect on telecommunications service prices, and this effect is significantly greater than the effect of price trends (inflation) in the economy as a whole.

INPt = β1 β2Reft β3Gdpt β4Ert e

Where:

INPt = Variation in prices for telecommunications services.

INPt1 =Variation in land line services.

INPt2 = Variation in mobile services.

INPt3 = Variation in broadband services.

Reft = Presence or absence of the Telecommunications Reform, 2013-2016 (dummy variable).

Gdpt = Gross National Product (GNP) at constant market prices.

Ert = Exchange rate variation (Mexican pesos to US dollars).

H3: The Telecommunications Reform in Mexico can be seen to have had a positive and significant effect on the adoption of the main telecommunications services (land line, mobile and broadband Internet services) when teledensity in Mexico is compared to that of services in other Latin American countries.

Specifically, a comparison is made with Latin American countries having similar economies to Mexico but which have not undergone a telecommunications reform (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay).

St = β1 β2Reft β3Edu1t β4 Edu2t β5 Gdpt β6It β7Ginit β8Instit e

Where:

St = Number of subscriptions per 100 inhabitants.

St1 = Teledensity of land line subscriptions.

St2 = Teledensity of mobile subscriptions.

St3 = Teledensity of broadband subscriptions.

Reft = Presence or absence of the Telecommunications Reform, 2013-2016 (dummy variable).

Edu1t = High school enrollment

Edu2t = Higher education enrollment

Gdpt = Gross National Product (GNP) at constant market prices.

It = Private Investment in telecommunications services at constant market prices.

Ginit = Gini coefficient (as a measure of income distribution).

Instit = The quality of democratic institutions and rule of law index.
Gdpt = Gross National Product (GNP) at constant market prices.

Ert = Exchange rate variation (Mexican pesos to US dollars).

This evaluation of the impact of Mexico's Telecommunication Reform provides a means to assess the effect that regulatory changes have had on social welfare and the potential recovery of Mexico's economic growth.


Generative audio data augmentation in a construction site is one of challenging research areas due to the high dissimilarity between work sounds of involved machines and equipment. However, it becomes necessary since the availability of audio data of critical work classes is often rare. Motivated by these considerations and demands, in this paper, we propose a complex-valued GAN architecture working with the audio spectrogram, named CoVal-SGAN, for an effective augmentation of audio data. Specifically, the proposed CoVal-SGAN exploits both the magnitude and phase information to improve the quality of the artificially generated audio signals and increase the overall performance of the underlying classifier. Numerical results, performed on the data recorded in real-world construction sites, along with the comparisons with available state-of-the-art approaches, show the effectiveness of the proposed idea by obtaining an improved accuracy.


In many parts of Africa NGOs work in conditions of instability caused by war, where infrastructure and markets are far from perfect. Under these conditions, the formal banking systems that NGOs often try to establish to provide credit to small businesses are frequently inappropriate. The informal systems which are usually ignored or undermined in favour of formal banking systems may, under many circumstances, serve the poor much better.This article draws critically upon ACORD's (The Agency for Cooperation and Research in Development) historical experiences with the provision of financial services to the poor and makes an attempt to draw lessons that may be applied to other operational and donor NGOs. It argues that given that NGO involvement in financial services is relatively recent, the amateurism with which they approach this particular service is understandable. However, this was acceptable only in so far as an active learning process was taking place. To reduce past inefficiencies, NGOs who choose to...


In ACCC v. Universal Music Australia Pty Ltd (2002), the issue was whether the major record companies, Universal and Warner, in refusing to supply stock to retailers who sold imported CDs has contravened the Trade Practices Act 1974, in particular, s 46. The case is significant in that it demonstrates the uncertainty that still surrounds the elusive concept of market power and how to prove its existence. It also demonstrates the uncertainty surrounding the concept of a barrier to entry and, in particular, whether product differentiation should be regard as a barrier to entry. The dilemma for the trial judge, Hill J, in this case was whether to focus ion the market for recorded music generally where barriers to entry were not high, or whether to have regard to the monopoly which is afforded to each record company in related in CDs that feature in the charts at particular times as a result of the Copyright Act.


The advantages of the application of hard coatings, which ar e well known for cutting tools, are to a much lesser extent explored for ca sting, extrusion, molding and forming tools. Increasing the lifetime of these tools is an important task in surface engineering because of complex load ing conditions and often complicated tool geometry. The plasma-assisted c h mical vapor deposition (PACVD) technique is well suited to deposit hard coatings onto large dies and moulds. The aim of this study is to present and d iscuss results obtained on different PACVD PLASTIT hard coatings (i.e., Ti N, Ti(C,N),