This risk of getting sick from unclean water may increase as climate change makes heavy rainfall and quick snowmelts more likely in Northern Canada. This study looked at the effects of weather, water quality, and human health in two Inuit communities. A few weeks after lots of rain or melting snow enters the drinking water system, people are more likely to get sick from diseases carried by water. As climate change increases rainfall and rapid melting of snow in Northern communities, the risk of getting sick will likely also increase.


Non‐melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) are the most common cancers in the world, but the risk of internal malignancy in patients with NMSC has not been well investigated.


This study implements a 32-b RISC microprocessor of dual MIPS-like core chip by using algorithmic state machine (ASM)and Verilog hardware description language. The overall design is simulated by using SynaptiCAD, programmed to FPGA chip by using Xilinx ISE 7.1, synthesized and IC layouted by using Cadence BuildGates and SOC Encounter, respectively. The developed architecture of dual-core chip with enhanced performance, validated by control circuit of a stepper motor, can applied to more applications such as robot control and image processing, etc.


The reliability calculation model of grouting pile foundation under eccentric load was studied. JC method was used to calculate its single reliability. Considering the correlation of failure modes, the narrow limit of the reliability of grouting pile foundation was obtained.


Purpose: The study was undertaken to see whether the culturally sensitive education for perinatal care using a face to face approach improves understanding of spouse's culture, knowledge of pregnancy and parenting skills, and self-efficacy among Korean husbands and Vietnamese wives. Methods: This st...


e21182Background: ALTER 0303 trial (NCT02388919) has demonstrated that anlotinib could significantly prolonged OS (primary point) and PFS in refractory advanced NSCLC pts as 3rd line treatment. Met...


Three-dimensional scaffolds with interconnected pores and proper pore size are promising for treating bone defects in tissue engineering [1]. Nowadays, bioceramic scaffolds, such as hydroxyapatite (HA) [2], calcium phosphate [3] bioactive glasses (BG) [4], and silicate-based bioceramics [5], have been successfully fabricated and widely used for clinical applications due to their excellent bone regeneration ability. However, these bioceramic scaffolds could not satisfy the treatments of bone defects caused by bone tumors completely owing to the postoperative proliferation of residual tumor cells, which results in the tumor recurrence after bone regeneration. Therefore, successful bone regeneration combined with the control of residual cancer cells presents a challenge for bone tissue engineering.


The utility model discloses a medical nose prosthesis which is composed of a nose column, a nose tip and a nose bridge. The medical nose prosthesis is characterized in that the nose bridge adopts a composite structure, the outer surface layer is made of soft materials, and the inner surface layer is made of hard materials. The beneficial effects of the medical nose prosthesis are as follows: the nose bridge adopts the composite structure; the half part clinging to the surface of a nose bone adopts hard silica gel, so that the hard silica gel is convenient to be carved in order to adapt to theshape of the nose bone; the half part clinging to the nose skin adopts soft silica gel, which leads good hand feeling; and the appearance of the medical nose prosthesis is beautiful.


Transition metal oxides sharing the perovskite structure exhibit many scientifically interesting and technologically important phenomena, and defects in these materials play a critical role in determining their properties. In the most general sense, SrTiO3 is a suitable model system for the study of defects in perovskite oxide materials. This chapter reviews common surface and defect structures in SrTiO3, and concludes with a discussion of defect diffusion.


To improve the management means for national and provincial trunk lines and emergency command ability for highway emergent events,highway administrative office in Xuzhou studies and implements emergency command system for highway management and service.To study highway management,highway service and emergency command and dispatch for highway emergent events,this paper describes the system framework and selection,function choosing and composition of soft and hard modules.Practice shows that the system can realize road monitoring,acquisition and analysis of traffic flow,publishing of travel information and three-level emergency command of province,city and county when highway emergent events occur.


We discuss the contribution of OZI-suppressed diagrams to the hyperflne split- ting of charmonium in lattice QCD. We study valence quark mass regions from strange to charm quark masses. No contribution of the disconnected diagram is seen in the vector me- son channel. In the pseudo-scalar channel and for valence quark masses around the strange quark, the disconnected contribution induces a considerable increase of the meson mass. This contribution quickly decreases as the quark mass increases. For charmonium the efiect is very small although a decrease of the pseudoscalar mass induced by the disconnected contribution cannot be ruled out.


The investigation and elaboration of the Spin-Crossover (SCO) phenomenon in Two – Dimensional (2D) Hofmann-type nanosized SCO materials and the size-reduction effect on cooperativity and thermodynamic properties of the nanoparticle...


Fishing trials targeting several invasive swimming crab species in their native habitat were undertaken using two types of collapsible pot, one with open-eyed entrances and the other with closed-eyed entrances, to analyse differences in catch retention between them. The open-eyed pot was dome-shaped with two funnel entrances located at opposite ends, whereas the closed-eyed pot had two soft sleeves that ended in slits and had to be pushed through by organisms to ingress, supposedly reducing escape. Retention fishing trials (100 pot hauls per pot type) using a 1-day soaking and fish bait confirmed no significant difference in crab catches between pot types; differences were only detected for large fish (morays and congers). A second set of 4-day escape trials (20 pots per type) was undertaken to investigate how long organisms would be detained in the pots. Escape was significantly affected, and half-residences were typically delayed by 1–2 days for most crabs and fish in closed-eyed entrance pots because the entrances closed. Closed-eyed entrances hampered escape and may be useful when longer soakings are needed; however, because no differences were detected in crab numbers between the two entrance types for short soakings, we recommend open-eyed entrance pots in order to mitigate possible ghost fishing effects from lost gear.


ABSTRACT Statins effectively reduce the risk of cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality in patients with hyperlipidemia, hypertension or type-II diabetes. In addition to lowering cholesterol, several studies have attributed statins with immunomodulatory and bactericidal properties. In this context, the aim of this study was to obtain information about their antimicrobial activity against key bacteria populating oral biofilms and relevant in periodontitis. Using the planktonic monocultures and multispecies biofilm models to assess the impact of the four statins here investigated, we demonstrated their high efficacy against Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) also leading to a significant decrease in cumulative bacterial load in early biofilm. Conversely, in established biofilm, simvastatin decreased P. gingivalis counts by up to more than 1ʹ000-fold, but, in contrast with early biofilm, Streptococcus gordonii expanded significantly to populate this emerging niche and compensate for diminishing P. gingivalis counts. These findings allow for speculations that similar events, when occurring in vivo, could initiate a shift of the oral microflora from a pathogenic to a more commensal state. Thus, we believe that simvastatin should be studied as an exemplary drug for periodontitis treatment.


Paraprofessional training is essential for high quality special education services. Yet, educators may struggle to select appropriate materials for paraprofessional training. A review was conducted of 26 paraprofessional training materials using a rubric designed to evaluate the alignment with federal legislation and professional standards, and use of research-based adult learning methods. Results indicate many training materials aligned with federal legislation, but varied in their content focus, alignment with paraprofessional standards, and use of adult learning methods. Based on results of the review, three paraprofessional training materials reflected high quality training. Features of paraprofessional training materials, recommendations for practice, suggested improvements to training materials, limitations, and future research directions are discussed.


Treatment strategies focused on reducing the amount of fipronil applied and the amount fipronil and its metabolites detected in the water runoff. Directed applications around the perimeter of the structure, narrow pin-stream applications, and no spray zones reduced the amount of fipronil detected. Alternative formulations such as foam may also have potential in reducing the amounts of fipronil in the water runoff. A standard treatment that avoided the driveway and garage provided satisfactory control and the lowest levels of fipronil in the water runoff.


Abstract The paper deals with the visual representation of official and non-official proper names in a bilingual onymic landscape. The onymic landscape consists of official and non-official proper names located on nameplates, inscriptions in public spaces, various areas and extralingual signs that point to their names. Research into the visual representation of proper names is a relatively new area of socioonomastics. The onymic landscape changes dynamically depending on the time, region and socio-cultural dimension; the state, local governments, business and civil spheres participate in its creation. The state regulates the use of official proper names through language policy and also influences their visualization. In addition to official forms, non-official forms of proper names appear in the onymic landscape. In a bilingual onymic landscape, proper names are visualized not only in the state language but also in the language of the minority, resp. another foreign language. The author examines the bilingual anthroponymic, toponymic and chrematonymic landscape of Slovak-Hungarian bilingual municipalities in Southern Slovakia.


In Uganda, small scale pig production plays a major role for households to earn a living and to secure their access to meat. Piglet mortality due to diar-rhoea-related dieseases is high. In an attempt to understand the underlying causes for this high mortality this study aims to investigate the role of trans-missible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) and is a part of a larger project con-ducted at Makerere university in Uganda.
A complicating factor in this investigation is the porcine respiratory corona-virus (PRCV), a stabile mutant form of the TGE virus. The occurrence of this virus had shown to alter the impact of TGEV in e.g. Europe and North Amer-ica. The interaction between these two viruses is discussed. Even porcine ep-idemic diarrhoea (PED) is a coronavirus-induced disease of swine and reports on the presence of all three viruses in the world is reviewed.
48 serum samples from adult pigs from the district of Gulu in Uganda were tested. The test used in this study is an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) which is able to identify both TGEV and PRCV and to differentiate between these viruses. Test results for all samples showed to be negative. The result is discussed by considering a possible impact of the extensive heat-inactivation on the samples as well as geography, climate and trade pattern of the district of Gulu in Uganda.


Hot interacting quantum fields can be described by Hydrodynamics. In this review the overview of using kinetic theory and holography to expand on the hydrodynamics of the system is explored. It is explained that the region of applicability is larger than what was assumed and that is due to the possibility to track the fluid for longer as the result of fluid/gravity. Finally radii of convergences for the sound and sheer mode were calculated. It was shown that they converge around , ω = i 2 in the small coupling limit for sheer viscosity and it was also shown that analytically extending from the hydrodynamics principal sheets gives the non hydrodynamics modes.


The article investigates the relations, in the light of new paradigms of economic development, between trust and economic wealth at the micro level in the Republic of Latvia, by means of a structural equation modelling-based approach and a framework combining social capital and social identity theory, in a rationale of cross-fertilization between social and cognitive science. Results are also tested against control dimensions reflecting relevant divides in Latvian society (residence place dimensions; ethno-linguistic belongings; educational differences). General results support the hypothesis of the existence of a causal path connecting personal wealth, institutional trust, social engagement and trust towards people. Results are found to be highly sensitive to the geographical and educational divide (but not to the ethno-linguistic one).


Multiple neuron activities in an active brain can be recorded using microelectrode arrays (MEAs) and analyzed. This requires an accurate detection of the neural spikes. In this paper, three approaches based on fractal dimension (FD), smoothed nonlinear energy operator (SNEO) and standard deviation to detect the spikes for noisy neuronal data are proposed. These methods however do not perform well in some cases, especially when the noise level is high or there are many noise sources. Although discrete wavelet transform (DWT) is an influential tool widely used in biomedical signals, it does not separate the components which overlap in time-frequency space. It doesn't have sufficient speed either. Therefore, we suggest a powerful subspace-based filtering approach, namely, singular spectrum analysis (SSA) as the preprocessing step to reduce the noise. When SSA followed by SNEO is used, the average detection of spikes and CPU time are more desirable and are respectively 100% and 0.072 s for semi-real signals of SNRs as low as 5 dB.


With the approach based on 2D histogram oblique segmentation, a fast image thresholding method based on maximum inter-class entropy was presented in this paper. Firstly the thresholding method was formulated, based on maximum inter-class entropy and 2D histogram oblique segmentation, and then its fast recurring algorithm was deduced, finally the defined array operations and the algorithm were combined to search the optimal threshold vector. The experimental results show that the proposed method can not only get better generalization, but also has higher efficiency than the current thrsholding method based on 2D oblique segmentation.


Here, we transplanted pNSC-DA neurons into 6-hydroxydopamine-induced rat models of PD and monitored their behavior for 16 weeks. In striatum in vivo, we first determined that the grafted pNSC-DA neurons secreted DA(using HPLC with a 200-mm microdialysis probe at a sampling rate of 0.002 Hz); then we recorded DA release by electrochemical amperometry (using a 7-mm carbonfiber electrode at a sampling rate of 1000 Hz), showing that the grafted pNSCDA neurons significantly rescued DA release in slices (7%) and in vivo (16%). Furthermore, the transplanted cells survived for at least 16 weeks and dramatically rescued the apomorphine-induced asymmetric rotation behavior in PD rats. Thus, we draw the conclusion that transplanted pNSC-DA neurons can functionally integrate into the brain and partially relieve Parkinsonian symptoms in rats. Our work provides direct evidence for a therapeutic role of pNSC-DA neurons in treating Parkinsonian syndrome.


Shanhu Gou: Notes on Classical Poetry, based on critical traditions of Northern Song Dynasty, well illustrates, modifies and supplements the poetic theories of Jiangxi School. It is noteworthy for its rich cultural connotations, its concern for the then social reality, its praise of morality and justice and its expression of personal aspirations. It is a perfect combination of literary criticism and social criticism, revealing a deep sense of patriotism of its author, and making itself a distinctive book of literary criticism of the Song Dynasty.


The first order optimality conditions for discrete‐time optimal control problems defined on Lie groupoids are found, and they are expressed in terms of composability in a groupoid. Some examples are shown. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)


We carried out psychophysical experiments to study perception mechanisms of images that are elements of building projections in ancient and classical architecture. The curvature of isolated lines and lines superimposed on a fan picture (Wundt-Hering illusion), as well as the orientation of lines in the presence of distractors with varying inclination and separation (tilt illusion) were estimated. We used the methods of constant stimuli and the forced choice procedure. The experiments were carried out on three subjects with a large number of presentations of stimuli, which made it possible to evaluate the statistical significance of the obtained dependences. The values of distortions in the illusion of Wundt-Hering (WH) and in the tilt illusion were determined. It is shown that the curvature of single lines without fan lines is estimated adequately. The analysis of the results led to the conclusion that corrections of the orientation and curvature of elements in classical architecture compensate for the distortions of visual perception. At the same time, the curvature of some elements may be due to the aesthetics of perception.


The driving system is an essential part of the modern bundling machine. 3D contact nonlinear finite element analysis on the driving wheel system of the bundling machine is made by using the finite element analysis software ANSYS.. The contact stress distribution is obtained. It is found that the maximal contact stresses are in agreement with the simplified calculation using the conventional method.


Porphyrins participate as dienophiles in Diels-Alder reactions with ortho-quinodimethanes or pentacene. They can also behave as dipolarophiles in 1,3-dipolar cycloadditions with a range of 1,3-dipoles. These two reaction types were successfully used to synthesize novel chlorins, bacteriochlorins and isobacteriochlorins.


Plants of Euphorbia genus are well known for their irritant milky latex rich in
bioactive terpenoids and their use in traditional medicine worldwide for treatment
of several diseases, including cancer that is the second leading cause of death in the
world. This research evaluates, for the first time, the major terpenoid compounds from
the latex of Azorean E. azorica. Five triterpene alcohols of the euphane, lanostane and
cycloartane-type skeleton (namely euphol, obtusifoliol, lanosterol, cycloartenol and
24-methylenecycloartenol) were isolated from the n-hexane fraction. In addition, the
diterpene alcohol ingenol was obtained from the ether fraction following to alkaline
hydrolysis, which indicates the presence of potential bioactive ingenane diterpenoid
esters. Their structures were elucidated by physical, chemical and spectroscopic
methods (1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR and mass spectra) and comparison with literature data.
The referred triterpenols have been recently reported to possess anti-inflamatory and/
or antitumor activities. Furthermore, ingenol constitutes the core of a recently approved
anticancer drug. Thus, the terpenoid composition of E. azorica latex may indicate their
chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic potentials on anticancer strategies, which
should be investigated.


: That can"t be achieved by intelligence, can be tactfully achieved by personality, and that is the influential power of personality. With or without our knowledge and will, we are influenced and fall a prey to the personality. Teachers who are with the kids from early childhood to adulthood influence a lot their students at every stage, and in this process the role of Big Five personality factors has an important role. This study investigated the Big Five personality of 1,405 prospective teachers chosen using simple random technique from the B.Ed. colleges. The statistical techniques arithmetic mean, standard deviation, and "t" test were used in the study. The findings of the study were as follows: The level of Big Five personality factors was high among the majority of the prospective teachers. The differential analysis revealed that there was no significant difference between the male and the female prospective teachers in their personality factors agreeableness, conscientiousness and emotional stability. But there is significant difference between the male and the female prospective teachers in their personality factors extroversion and openness. The male prospective teachers were found to be better than the female prospective teachers in their personality traits extroversion and openness. Further it revealed that there was no significant difference between the unmarried and the married prospective teachers in their personality factors extroversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness. But there was significant difference between the unmarried and married prospective teachers in their personality factor emotional stability. While comparing the mean scores of unmarried and married prospective teachers, the unmarried prospective teachers were better than the married prospective teachers in their personality trait emotional stability.


Recently, kindergartens and nursery schools in Japan are facing a big problem: an increase in the number of children who require special care and attention. Caring for these children causes many problems for child nurses, especially if they are young and inexperienced. To resolve the above problem, first the present "no record" situation is analyzed through field research. We clarify that a paper format record cannot be utilized effectively in daily nurturing environments. Second, this paper proposes a new blog system called "Child Development Consulting Blog." CDC-Blog is a communication platform for childcare professionals through which child nurses and visiting counselors mutually exchange messages.


The subsynchronous resonance (SSR) phenomenon may occur when a steam turbine-generator is connected to a long transmission line with series compensation. The main purpose of this works is to verify the capability of the gate controlled series capacitor (GCSC) to mitigate SSR. For this study the GCSC was tested in conjunction with the first IEEE benchmark system. The actual possibility of controlling SSR was verified by digital simulation using the ATP/EMTP (alternative transients program/electromagnetic transients program). As a result it was shown that GCSC is a powerful device for controlled series compensation both for power flow control and SSR damping. It was shown also that in some case the GCSC can damp SSR even without a specific control. GCSC can also damp electromechanical power oscillations as shown in some simulations


The paper provides an analytical assessment of the flutter character of an unclassified National Aerospace Plane configuration known as the demonstrator. Linear subsonic, supersonic, and hypersonic analysis indicate that the vehicle is prone to body-freedom flutter resulting from the decrease in vibration frequency of the all-moveable wing at high flight dynamic pressures. As the wing-pivot frequency decreases, it couples with the vehicle short-period mode resulting in dynamic instability. A similar instability sometimes occurs when the pivot mode couples with the fuselage-bending mode. Also assessed, for supersonic flight conditions, are configuration variations that include relocation of the wing further aft on the lifting-body fuselage, and the addition of body flaps to the rear of the vehicle. These changes are destabilizing because they result in severe wing-pivot/fuselage-bending instabilities at dynamic pressures lower than the instabilities indicated for the original demonstrator. Finally, a two-point wing support and actuation system concept is proposed for the National Aerospace Plane, which if developed may (according to cursory analysis) enhance overall stability.


Fatigue properties of similar and dissimilar thickness single-point resistance spot welding samples of 301LN austenite stainless steel cold rolled sheets of two different degrees of strength are studied,and the effects of the welding process on fatigue properties are investigated.Due to the large differences of microstructures of the spot welded joints,HAZ(heat affected zone) and base steel in the welded area,the yield strength of the nugget and HAZ is much lower than that of the base steel.Further more,with severe structural stress concentration in HAZ,there occur plastic strains in HAZ at low cyclic loads;plastic deformation and slipping bands are accumulated to develop fatigue cracks at low average stresses.Reducing the welding heat input to obtain small grains in HAZ can increase the yield strength and reduce the sizes of slipping bands,which is helpful to raise the fatigue limits of the resistance spot welding samples.The ratio between the fatigue limits at both 99.9% and 50% survival rates and the static tensile strength is less than 15% for all test samples.The 1.5+1.5 mm thick welded sample demonstrates the best fatigue limit.


The Barbapoca deceit - Chapter 1 - A point-and-click adventure game with puzzles, love and a lot of humor. - Kawagames


Means of preventirg hydronephrosis, developing from injury to the ureter during radiotherapy of gynecologic carcinoma, were investigated. These studies were based on previous observations that cortisone tended to reduce the incidence of ureteral strictures following irradiation of cervical carcinoma. Female rats were irradiated with 300 r, delivered to a 2 x 4.5 cm abdominal area, in repeated doses to give a total of 4500 r. The animals were injected intramuscularly with 0.5 mg of a crystalline suspension of prednisolone every week during and after irradiation, and control animals were treated with folliclestimulating hormone (FSH). Pyelonephritis developed in 44% of FSH-treated animals compared with only 18% in prednisolone-treated rats; severe ureteral sclerosis was found in 36 and 20%; and histological detectable hydronephrosis was seen in 80 and 0%, respectively. It was concluded that this anti-inflammatory steroid inhibits development of the 2 factors which appear most responsible for radiation-induced hydronephrosis, namely, ascending pyelonephritis and ureteral sclerosis. This was confirmed in human subjects. In 50 women undergoing radiation treatment of uterine carcinoma, administration of a total dose of 500 mg prednisolone over a 3- month period completely prevented hydronephrosis, whereas this complication arose in 10% of women who did not receive this steroid.more » (H.H.D.)« less


ONE OP the acknowledged lacks in the curriculum of most schools of social work is sufficientinstruction in normal child development and family life. In classroom courses students are taught chiefly about the psychological development of the child, the various phases through which he passes, and the parental attitudes that promote the resolution of the conflicts typical of each phase. Concepts presented from the psychoanalytic point of view are an important part of casework theory, but the social work student needs also to observe children and families directly if he is to acquire an understanding of child behavior. This article describes a special educational project in which two first-year social work students,e as part of their field work assignment, each observed a family on a continuing basis throughout the academic year and also observed children in a nursery school. The aim was to help the students broaden their knowledge of the "world of childhood" through observing family life and noting the constant interaction between the child, the parents, and the environment. The project was carried out at the University Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle, to which the two participating students had been assigned. They carried some cases in the general pediatric clinics, but their main assignment was to work in the Well Child Clinic, which provides intensive health supervision for the children of students at the University.t The Clinic uses the


The description of dust production by asymptotic giant branch stars (AGB) is matter of interest for a wide part of the astronomical community. In the light of this, the number of studies focused on this topic rapidly increased in the last decade. Latest releases of hydrodynamical models provide a deep insight of wind structure and mass loss process. On the other hand new generations of models able to couple a detailed description of the AGB evolution with a dust growth model allow the estimation of the amount of dust formed in the winds of these stars, with a special look at its dependence on AGB evolution properties. Nevertheless, several uncertainties connected with the AGB modelling still affect the global description of dust condensation process. In this contribution we discuss latest progresses, possible constrains and upcoming improvements expected on this side.


This paper, based on the knowledge map drawn by the CiteSpace, found that the research on college teachers' ethics has three features. First, papers are published on a great number of journals, with a small distribution on the core journals. Second, college teachers are the main researchers and research institutions are widely distributed, which indicates a requirement for an improvement of the continuity and depth of the research. Third, the research focused on four core topics themes: the current situation of college teachers' ethics, the causes of problems on college teachers' ethics, the integration of socialist values and the construction of college teachers' ethics, which is the main, and the long-term mechanism of college teachers' ethics construction


This NEC users guide was written by Marion Pithon (French version, 19/02/2007) and translated into English (by Jean Maziejewski, March 2007). This guide is only available for authorised users (a user/password is needed to acceed to the guides from outside Meteo-France). Main points of this users guide : Presentation of the computer's architecture. Acces point open to users Disk configuration Allocation of file system on IMPE Services Interactive Accounts : Login, $HOME structure, (...)


With the increasing loss of forests, the need for their renewal by natural means is imminent. Thanks to the Kyoto treaty demanding reduction in greenhouse gases, plantations of fast growing and high yielding tree species have thrived around the world. In the past few years, there has been a lot of progress in the area of forest biotechnology. Genetic modification (GM) has introduced desirable traits such as insect tolerance, herbicide resistance, sterility, better pulping quality and fast growth. The plantation of GM trees, however, raises the concerns of possible damage to the environment, impact to biodiversity and possible gene flow into natural forests. These issues need to be addressed before there is any wide acceptance of GM trees. Other non-GM biotechnology techniques such as mass propagation of elite tree individuals through meristematic propagation or somatic embryogenesis are more acceptable and have been widely used.


Previous research has found that divorce negatively predicts college students' romantic relationships and intimacy (Ensign, Scherman, & Clark, 2006). However, previous studies on adult children of divorce have not included extended family support as an influence on attachment styles. To address this void, the current study examined differences in attachment styles of children of divorced and intact parents and investigated whether extended family social support predicted attachment avoidance and anxiety among adult children of divorce. Simple linear regressions revealed that perceived extended family support did not significantly predict attachment avoidance among adult children of divorce. However, perceived extended family support did predict attachment anxiety, such that the greater the perceived extended family support, the lower the anxiety reported.


Like plasma, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contains lipid-protein complexes called lipoproteins tasked with transporting lipids and protecting against cerebrovascular dysfunction. These brain lipoproteins (BLps) are generated
 de novo
 in the central nervous system (CNS), but little is known about them, because they exist in CSF at <0.5% the concentration of lipoproteins in plasma making them difficult to study. BLps are thought to resemble plasma high-density lipoproteins (HDL), a heterogenous population of compositionally distinct particles important for transporting lipid, protecting against oxidative stress, and modulating immune and inflammatory responses in the periphery. Mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) studies have shown that 260 different proteins can interact with different HDLs in the periphery and specific combinations of these proteins cluster on the lipid surface to govern particle function. In the current study, we developed a lipoprotein profiling technology that overcomes the BLp abundance problem in CSF to capture BLp subspecies with unprecedented sensitivity and resolution. Using high-resolution size exclusion chromatography, we identified at least 10 distinctly sized BLp populations in human CSF with a majority of the particles eluting in size ranges between plasma low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and HDL. BLps were isolated from fractionated CSF using a lipid-binding resin. Proteomic analysis of the particles using LC-MS/MS identified 299 different lipid-associated proteins across fractions with 189 of those proteins not currently reported on the human HDL Proteome Watch. Co-migration analysis further revealed at least 27 unique protein communities across the fractions indicating that multiple distinct subspecies exist within the same sized subfractions. DAVID functional analysis shows that the communities are highly enriched in proteins important in the immune response and neurometabolic functions such as neuron generation and development. In summary, our study shows that similar to plasma HDL, BLps are a highly speciated population of compositionally distinct particles but are enriched in CNS-derived proteins that are essential for maintaining cognitive health.


Background: Treatment options for elderly acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients, despite various novel therapies, are still limited. Relapse is common after chemotherapy, and progression on lower intensity treatment with hypomethylating agents is inevitable in all patients even after initial response. Lysine deacetylase inhibitors (KDIs or HDAC inhibitors) have shown limited single-agent clinical activity in AML. Therefore, to develop potential novel treatment options for AML, we aimed to identify synergistic KDI-based drug combinations to build upon the single-agent activity and clinical-availability of KDIs. We performed RNA-interference (RNAi) drug modifier screens of the kinome and phosphatome with the KDI vorinostat in AML cells in order to identify targets to inhibit in combination with KDIs. Based on pathway analysis of RNAi screen results that highlighted an unexpected role for p38/JNK/SAPK signaling in vorinostat activity in AML, we explored the putative p38 substrate-selective MK2 inhibitor CMPD1 combined with KDIs, and demonstrated potent synergistic activity in AML regardless of molecular, cytogenetic or lineage background. As published evidence suggests that CMPD1 can also act as a microtubule-destabilizing/targeting agent (MTA), and that MK2 can associate with microtubules and cytoskeleton-associated proteins, we examined several MTAs in combination with KDIs in AML, including vinca alkaloid microtubule-destabilizing agents vinblastine/vincristine, and taxol as a microtubule-stabilizing agent. Results: Vinblastine and vincristine dose-dependently synergized with vorinostat similarly to CMPD1 in all AML cell lines tested, with vinblastine being more potently synergistic than vincristine. Taxol only potentiated KDI activity in approximately half of AML cell lines. Importantly, preliminary data suggest preferential, dose-dependent synergy of KDIs and vinca alkaloid MTAs in the CD34+ progenitor AML cell fraction, as compared to the paired CD34-depleted fraction from the same primary AML sample in ex vivo culture. This preferential CD34+ activity was similar to that observed with CMPD1 combined with KDIs in ex vivo models. Consistent with synergistic activity of MTAs and KDIs, multiple RNAi screen hits also converged on microtubule dynamics. Subsequently, we identified the LKB1 signaling network, a critical integrator of cellular stress metabolism and hematopoietic stem cell quiescence/homeostasis, as a determinant of vorinostat activity in AML. Of 14 known kinases directly regulated by LKB1, 4 belong to microtubule-associated protein (MAP) or microtubule-affinity regulating kinases (MARK) families (e.g. screen hit MARK4). RNAi screen hits also converged on regulation of microtubule proteins, or directly on microtubule proteins themselves, (e.g. atypical MAPK4 and MAPK6 which phosphorylate microtubule-associated protein 2, or TAOK2 which has a kinase-independent role in stabilizing microtubules). Additionally, several RNAi hits such as PACSIN1 and -2, and MAST2 and -4 link the actin cytoskeleton to microtubule dynamics. Discussion: Herein we show that several types of clinically-used MTAs (i.e. vinca alkaloids or taxanes) potently synergize with KDIs in AML, and that this synergy can occur preferentially in primary CD34+ cells, as compared to the CD34-negative AML compartment. Although at high in vitro doses microtubule-destabilizing agents such as vinca alkaloids, and microtubule-stabilizing agents such as taxanes, can both induce apoptosis via mitotic perturbation, many publications show that low therapeutic MTA doses can induce apoptosis in tumor cells in vivo independent of mitosis. Therefore, we hypothesize that clinically-available KDIs (i.e. vorinostat, panobinostat) and MTAs (i.e. vinca alkaloids or taxanes) represent novel combinations with the potential to target the AML progenitor pool even in a non-proliferate state, and thus have the potential to eradicate minimal residual disease. Disclosures Mesa: Celgene: Research Funding; Incyte Corporation: Research Funding; Ariad: Consultancy; Galena: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; Promedior: Research Funding; CTI: Research Funding; Gilead: Research Funding. Tibes: Italfarmaco S.p.A.: Consultancy, Honoraria.


Termites, cockroaches, and scarab beetles are the only insects known that emit methane, but they do so in impressive amounts. Methanogenesis occurs in the enlarged hindgut compartment and is fueled by hydrogen and reduced one-carbon compounds that are formed during the fermentative breakdown of plant fiber and humus. The methanogens typically colonize intestinal surfaces or occur as endosymbionts of protists. They fall into three major phylogenetic groups (Methanobacteriales, Methanosarcinales, and Methanomicrobiales) and form distinct phylogenetic clusters of mostly uncultivated archaea that are often unique to the intestinal tract of insects. The oxygen-reducing capacities of the few available isolates and their location in the microoxic gut periphery indicate that at least some species of this notoriously oxygen-sensitive group are well adapted to the continuous influx of oxygen into their habitat. Although colonization by methanogens seems to require a predisposition of the host, possible benefits for the insect remain to be discovered. The high methane emissions of termites, together with their enormous biomass especially in tropical regions, make them a significant natural source of this important greenhouse gas.


A flexible solid-state supercapacitor based on vapor phase polymerized (VPP) PEDOT into cellulose paper matrix (PEDOT/CP) was successfully fabricated. The PEDOT/CP composite material worked as both...


This paper challenges the use of the concepts of reflective practice and learning cycles as a basis for analysing designing, for building coherent theories about human designing and for developing design methodologies. It develops the argument via two paths: a review of the original formulation of the concepts of reflective practice/practitioners and learning cycles; and an analysis of the implications of recent findings in the areas of brain and neurology research for building theories about designing. The paper suggests researchers have over extended the use of the reflective practice and learning cycle concepts: concepts that were devised as relatively coarse structural formulations bringing together some of the more obvious macroscopic characteristics of individual human functioning for business consultants and educators. It argues that new micro-level understandings of design cognition emerging from brain and neurological research offer a better basis for building theories about designing.


We consider the problem of estimating the wind velocity perceived by a flying multicopter, from data acquired by onboard sensors and knowledge of its aerodynamics model only. We employ two complementary methods. The first is based on the estimation of the external wrench (force and torque) due to aerodynamics acting on the robot in flight. Wind velocity is obtained by inverting an identified model of the aerodynamic forces. The second method is based on the estimation of the propeller aerodynamic power, and provides an estimate independent of other sensors. We show how to calculate components of the wind velocity using multiple aerodynamic power measurements, when the poses between them are known. The method uses the motor current and angular velocity as measured by the electronic speed controllers, essentially using the propellers as wind sensors. Verification of the methods and model identification were done using measurements acquired during autonomous flights in a 3D wind tunnel.


A reverse operation analysis method for perform shape design in metal forging by controlling the deform uniformity was developed.The optimization based on Preform Optimization simulation platform in DEFORM-2D.The optimization problem was to minimize the effective strain variance and the preform shapes were presented by B-spline curves.Using the method,the preform shapes was designed.The mold cavity can be filled by optimized preform.And the uniform deform and the minor strain gradient can be obtained after final forging.The most effective stress is less than the former module by 29%.The optimal results are available.


We prove comparison principles for viscosity solutions of nonlinear second order, uniformly elliptic equations, which extend previous results of P. L. Lions, R. Jensen and H. Ishii. Some basic pointwise estimates for classical solutions are also extended to continuous viscosity solutions.


A lack of human focus in construction and site management and an increasing internationalisation has been identified in the literature. The research aim of the thesis is to study the performance of the construction industry, to find out where and how the industry can improve itself on construction management during production. Several performance indicators were identified and studied, based on the 'Transaction Cost Economics' (TCE) and the 'Resource Based Theory' (RBT). A human focus is chosen in this study and the scope is given with the execution phase of construction projects. The analysis revealed that the interviewed managers identified areas, which they are not satisfied with. Four performance indicators and three organizational support performance indicators were selected for the discussion. In order to improve the construction sector, it was found that in some cases, the efficiency of time, cost and quality management, and project leadership could be improved. The performance indicators of HRM, training and knowledge management have areas which are not paid enough attention to and should therefore improve.


Risk management today involves identifying and assessing overall risk, so we must develop strategies to minimize the risks, even when they do mitigate the contrasting effects or have the purpose of obtaining benefits. This management model today is the main factor in the formation of the project which then continues throughout the life cycle of a project. The paper will recommend how to act when confronted with risks answers to questions related to risk management and the following questions: What could be errors in a possible project? How much is probability to happen error? How it impacts the error in our project? Risk management today is playing an important role in economic development, and that taking into consideration that Kosovo is a new country, and every wrong decision brings us back and made us very laborious road to economic competition with countries in the region and the EU. The risk may be present in the general work, he reduced or mitigated, but can never be eliminated entirely. The paper addresses the management of risk that found during the process of economic development in Kosovo, making an analysis of economic research.


Nonionic surfactants, such as TritonX-100 and Brij-35, form cationic compounds in the presence of monovalent metal ions, which associate with an anionic tetrabromophenolphthalein ethyl ester dye (TBPE) to produce an extractable blue ion associate. When tetrakis (4-fluorophenyl) borate (BF4) is added to an aqueous phase, BF4 forms a colorless ion associate with cationic compounds, and the associate is rapidly extracted into 1,2-dichloroethane. At the end point, BF4 takes the cationic compound from the blue ion associate. As a result, a blue color in the organic phase turns out to be yellow because TBPEH is produced. In this work, the addition of 5 ml of 4 M KCl gave a clear end point and RSD with KCl was 0.2%. 1,2-Dichloroethane was suitable in the titration system. Since the ion association formation is stoichiometric, nonionic surfactants can be determined simply and conveniently.


It describes an IL-13 or an extracellular domain containing a variant thereof, transmembrane domain, and intracellular signaling domain ball stimulation chimeric transmembrane immune receptor (CAR) containing the domain that binds to IL--13Rα2 (IL13Rα2).


This research is motivated by lex number 2 of 2011 about politic party, containing about forming of cadres as one of prereqruiment to legal politic party. Golkar Party is mass – party and has 30 years on Indonesian politic. Party Golkar dominate has spread to all Indonesian region. However, in recent years a decline in the number of cadres, specially in Pekanbaru City. This qualitative research with indepht interview and documentation as data collection techniques. This research armed to explain forming of cadres implementate on Golkar Party in Pekanbaru 2011-2013. The theory used Political Party theory, Political education and forming of cadres system. Forming of cadres system is necessary for Political Party, cause forming or cadres is process to made human resources to be responsible leader. The result is, Golkar Party in Pekanbaru has not be able to implement forming of cadres as well. In 2011-2013, Golkar Party in Pekanbaru only do one education and training in 2013, that is orientation of fungsionaris. Education and traning carrie out least once a year. Consolidation is other of forming of cadres activity. Consolidation is also held once on 2012, which is this activity not appropriate to the concept. Whereas, in 2011 nothing forming of cadres activity undertaken . Keyword: Golkar, Political Party, Forming of cadres


An orthopedic examination should be performed along with the routine physical examination, and history taking should include pertinent questions relating to orthopedic ailments. The author discusses the signs and symptoms which will lead to a cursory but adequate examination of the musculoskeletal system and points out the elementary principles which will prevent the physician's overlooking an orthopedic defect.


The release of the independent review of the Australian government's use of information and communications technology (ICT) by Sir Peter Gershon has created a lot of upheaval. The review has been quite critical of the government's inefficiencies with ICT management.


Research on social values has been shown to be beneficial in market segmentation. This article describes the List of Values (LOV), a methodology that may allow comparison and contrast of values. Details of the methodology and recent research using it are described, and data analysis strategies are discussed.


This paper, written from an African feminist perspective, focuses on the uhadi musical bow, a historical instrument found in museums, particularly in Museum Africa in Johannesburg. The mislabelling and lack of contextual information about the uhadi bow in the museum collection hinder the understanding of its origin and the recognition of its makers. The research highlights the role of women as the likely original makers and performers of the uhadi bow. It explores the unique features, construction, and playing techniques of the instrument. The study also profiles female uhadi players, emphasising their contribution to reviving and preserving the instrument's cultural significance.


The interpretation of variations in the global isotopic composition of precipitation and water vapor can be strengthened using an isotope‐enabled atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM). Here we present a fast‐physics atmospheric circulation model suitable for long ensemble integrations: the efficient AGCM Simplified Parameterizations, Primitive Equation Dynamics (SPEEDY), with newly added water isotope physics. The model (SPEEDY‐isotope‐enabled reconstructions (IER)) simulates the hydrological cycle and isotope ratios in atmospheric water at a fraction of the computational cost of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)‐class GCMs. Despite its simplified physics, SPEEDY‐IER captures many key features of the observed range of tropical, subtropical, and midlatitude isotope variability when compared to the Global Network of Isotopes in Precipitation, Stable Water Isotope Intercomparison Group (SWING2) simulations, and satellite observations of isotopes in vapor. The incorporation of water isotopes in SPEEDY required two updates to the model's physics: postcondensational exchange associated with falling rain and soil hydrology. It is evident that these physical processes are essential for a skillful simulation of isotopes in precipitation and vapor. We conduct a suite of sensitivity tests to constrain effective parameters in the rain exchange and land models and assess the impact of the new physics to isotope simulations. The strong sensitivity to parameter choice in these components reaffirms the importance of land‐atmosphere interactions and rain‐vapor exchange on stable water isotope ratios in the atmosphere and thus on the interpretation of paleoclimate records. The utility of SPEEDY‐IER for climate applications is discussed.


I. Suppose that the claims experienced by a portfolio could be represented as independent random variables with a distribution function F(x). The net premium per claim for an excess loss cover above an amount of L is then If we have no information about F(x) except a number M of independent claims, we might compute the observed "staircase" distribution function SM (x) which is for every x an unbiased estimate of F(x), and could thus compute an unbiased estimate for P(L) with the variance [7]) 2. In real life we have some qualitative knowledge of F(x) and very limited information about the claims. In his introduction to this subject Beard treats the case where the only information about F(x) consists of the largest claim xi and the number of claims ni (i = 1, 2, …, N) observed during N periods (Reference No 2). It is known from the theory of extreme values [3] that for large ni the distribution of xi depends mainly on the parameters uni and αni( defined by Beard further assumes that F(x) belongs to what is called by Gumbel "the exponential type" of distribution functions, which have an unlimited tail and finite moments. This class is strictly defined by Gnedenko's necessary and sufficient condition [4, p. 68]:


Objective:To explore the reproductive prognosis of patients after incision of uterine septum under hysteroscope. Methods:53 patients(including 32 patients with infertility and 21 patients with spontaneous abortion) receiving incision of uterine septum under hysteroscope were analyzed retrospectively,the diagnostic results of hysteroscope combined with laparoscope were gold standards,the diagnostic results of hysterosalpingography(HSG) and ultrasonography for seperate uterus were compared,the postoperative situation and pregnancy situation of the patients were followed up,the pregnancy rates and term delivery rates of the patients with infertility and spontaneous abortion were compared. Results:31 patients got pregnancy at 3~12 months after treatment,the total pregnancy rate was 62.1%,the rate of term delivery was 77.8%.The pregnancy rates in spontaneous abortion group and term delivery group were 78.6% and 46.7%,respectively,the rates of term delivery in the two groups were 81.8% and 71.4%,respectively,there was no significant difference between the two groups.The abortion rate in spontaneous abortion group decreased from 81.1% before treatment to 20.0% after treatment,the rate of term delivery increased from 2.7% before treatment to 80.00% after treatment,there was significant difference. Conclusion:Ultrasonography is superior to HSG in diagnosis of seperate uterus.Incision of uterine septum under hysteroscope can improve pregnancy outcomes,which is a safe and effective method.


The article presents the history of the development and implementation of No-till technology abroad and in Ukraine, indicating the countries and years where and when this technology was developed and implemented. It is indicated that a great contribution to the development of the theoretical foundations of minimization of soil cultivation due to No-till technology was made by the scientists of the USA, who, according to most indicators, highly rated this technology. Among its shortcomings, they attributed the deterioration of the ecological situation due to weeds, diseases and pests and the need to apply higher doses of nitrogen fertilizers and herbicides. Scientists of the National Research Center "Institute of Agriculture" of the Ukrainian Academy of Sciences add to this list a delay of three to four days with the spring ripening of the soil due to the presence of plant remains in the form of mulch on its surface and the spread of mouse-like rodents. This limitation of the disadvantages of No-till technology makes it quite successful in terms of spread in agricultural production, because annually its area in the world grows by more than 1 million hectares. Its largest areas are in the USA, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, Australia and Paraguay, and in Brazil, no-till technology is included in the ranks of government programs with appropriate crediting. In Europe as a whole, the share of land with No-till technology in the structure of sown areas does not exceed 3 %. The optimal conditions for No-till technology in the forest-steppe and steppe zones of Ukraine are on an area of 5.25 million hectares, but its development is currently far from 1 million hectares. The problem of the prevalence of no-till technology in domestic production is seen by the majority of scientists as excessive weediness of the crops grown for it, although in our opinion this phenomenon is possible only in the early stages of the development of the technology without tillage. No-till technology has its future, because only it, among many other technologies, can guarantee an extended reproduction of soil fertility.
Key words: No-till technology, weediness of sowing, soil fertility.


Economic development is driven by the agricultural sector, especially plantation sector has a uniq strategy. Plantation in this area focused on plantation development strategy to support community livelyhood. The research was conducted in Aceh Besar district with survey methods. Studies related to oil as a commodity commodity base involving farmers, extension agents and agency staff. Model analysis of the hierarchy, LQ, investment criteria, specialization and diversification. Study found that the development of plantation in Aceh Besar district has not been consistent with the potential of production centers in each sub-district. Several factors contributed to this inconsistency, among others.  Elected as a primecommodity in Aceh Besar regency are coconut, nutmeg, cloves, pepper and areca has been a prime of the community as a source of livelihood of the plantation sector. The besat strategy of commodity development in Aceh Besar is diversification strategy on the basis of the potential combinations, the type of commodity and infrastructure to support agribusiness. Each district as well as developed some commodity to anticipate the price fluctuations of commodity. Key Word: plantation subsector, prime commodities


This study examined the validity of G. Kelly's Individuality Corollary by assessing the role of individual personal constructs in the formation of impressions. All subjects formed impressions from six traits, three positive and three negative, attributed to an unknown person. All of the traits presented to one group were normatively determined. Three other groups received six traits partly or entirely generated by the subjects themselves in descriptions of other persons. These groups were characterized as own-positive, own-negative and all own. As hypothesized, subjects produced more differentiated impressions in the conditions in which they received as stimuli the self-generated traits. Evaluations of the unknown other moved in the direction of the evaluative component of the self-generated traits. In addition, the most highly organized impressions were produced in the normative and all-own conditions. These results were interpreted as supporting both the Individuality Corollary and a conflict model of impression organization.


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CHARM '97 is the ninth in a series of working conferences devoted to the development and use of formal techniques in digital hardware design and verification. This series is held in collaboration with IFIP WG 10.5. Previous meetings were held in Europe every other year.


Objective:To evaluate the clinical value of echocardiography in assessment of pulmonary artery development in patients with complex congenital heart disease(CHD) underwent bidirectional Glenn shunt surgery.Methods: Echocardiography was preformed to measure the diameter of pulmonary branches in 101 patients underwent bidirectional Glenn shunt procedure before and after th surgery.The percutaneous blood oxygen saturation was measured at the same time.Patients were divided into two groups,pulmonary atresia(PA) group(n=30) and pulmonary stenosis(PS) group(n=71),according to the presence of pulmonary artery blood.Also according to the age,patients were divided into infant group(age ≤3;n=51) and children group(age 3;n=50).The changes of pulmonary artery diameter and blood oxygen saturation were compared intra and inner groups.Results: 101 patients were followed up(FU) from12 to 36 months after bidirectional Glenn shunt procedure,with a median FU time was 25months.The diameter of pulmonary artery and percutaneous blood oxygen saturation were improved after the surgery in all patients.The improvement in PS group was much better than that of in PA group;similar results was seen in the infant group(P0.05).The regression analysis results showed good correlation between the pulmonary artery measured by echocardiography and percutaneous blood oxygen saturation before and after surgery.(P0.01) Conclusion: Bidirectional Glenn shunt procedure can promote the pulmonary vascular development and improve oxygen saturation without increasing right ventricular preload.Echocardiography is reliable in assessment of the growth of pulmonary vascular in long-term follow-up.


The invention discloses a preparation method of 2, 4-dimethyl-6-(1-methyl-pentadecyl) phenol. The method takes 2, 4-dimethyl phenol and hexadecane as raw materials, and comprises the steps of putting the 2, 4-dimethyl phenol and the hexadecane into a reactor according to the batch charge that molar ratio of the 2, 4-dimethyl phenol to the hexadecane is equal to (1.0-1.5): 1; feeding a sulfuric acid catalyst loaded on activated carbon into the reactor, wherein the dosage of the catalyst is 5-20% of the mass of the hexadecane; under the protection of nitrogen, mixing and heating up to 100-160 DEG C, carrying out reaction for 8-30 hours, and filtering to obtain a solid catalyst; carrying out reduced pressure distillation on filtrate to obtain unreacted raw materials; after that, carrying out reduced pressure distillation at the temperature of 180-200 DEG C under 1-2mmHg to obtain the 2, 4-dimethyl-6-(1-methyl-pentadecyl) phenol. Compared with the existing synthesis method, the preparation method has the product yield reaching up to more than 88% and the content reaching up to more than 96%. The preparation method of the 2, 4-dimethyl-6-(1-methyl-pentadecyl) phenol has the advantages of being mild in reaction conditions, fewer in side reactions, reusable in catalyst, etc.


In order to obtain the better understanding of pitch trouble during kraft pulping, effects of bark were investigated using Bunanoki (Fagus crenata BLumE) , Arakasi (Cyclobanopsis glauca OERST.) , and Sudajii (Castanopsis cuspidata var. SIEBOLDII NAKAI) as raw materials. The results are as follows: 1. The amount of unsaponifiable materials in bark is about several to tens times of that in wood. 2. The amount of unsaponifiable materials in raw chips increases remarkablely with increasing contamination of bark in the chips. 3. The occurance of pitch trouble during kraft pulping are enhanced remarkablely with increasing contamination of bark in the chips. 4. A lot of red color specks as pitch trouble were counted on the bleached kraft pulp produced from the Sudajii raw chips containing bark of 10% ; in those chips the content of unsaponifiable materials was 0.26 wt%. 5. It was confirmed again that the amount of unsaponifiable materials in the raw chips can be used as an indicator of pitch trouble during kraft pulping.


Several signal detection experiments employing a forced-choice procedure are analysed in terms of a model that incorporates two distinct processes: a sensory process and a decision process. The sensory process specifies the relation between external signal events and hypothesized sensory states of the subject. The decision process specifies the relation between the sensory states and the observable responses of the subject. The sensory process is assumed to be fixed throughout an experiment, whereas the decision process is viewed as varying from trial to trial as a function of the particular sequence of preceding events. The changes in the decision process are assumed to be governed by a simple stochastic learning model. There are several ways of formulating the learning model and the experiments reported here were designed to select among these alternative approaches. The empirical results favour a linear-operator process with trial-to-trial changes in response probabilities that are a function not only of the signal and information events, but also of the particular sequence of sensory states activated.


Poor blood pressure (BP) control is a serious clinical problem, being responsible for much of the morbidity and mortality associated with arterial hypertension. Although European Society of Hypertension (ESH)/European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines for the management of arterial hypertension strongly recommend to pursue the primary therapeutic goal of BP control in the population of hypertensive patients, currently available data indicate that, in the western world, a large proportion of hypertensive patients have poor BP control. Relevant causes of poor BP control are clinical inertia, defined as failure of physicians to modify or intensify treatment of patients who do not achieve BP targets, and low patient adherence to the treatment. Improved BP control can be achieved by using appropriate antihypertensive drugs at adequate dosage and/or improving patients' adherence rate.
In the majority of hypertensive patients, a combination of two or more antihypertensive drugs is nearly always necessary in order to achieve adequate BP control as recommended by current ESH/ESC Guidelines. In such cases, the use of fixed-dose combinations can significantly improve patient adherence, through the reduction of daily "pill-burden".
Olmesartan medoxomil (OM) is an antihypertensive agent belonging to the angiotensin II receptor antagonist (ARB) class which, in several clinical studies, has proved to be effective and well tolerated in the treatment of hypertensive patients. In patients in whom olmesartan medoxomil monotherapy fails to achieve the recommended BP goal, the combination of olmesartan medoxomil with the thiazide diuretic hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) can enhance the efficacy of the antihypertensive treatment (compared with placebo and monotherapy with either agent), thereby allowing a greater number of patients to achieve BP control.
Combination therapy with OM/HCTZ has shown good efficacy and a favorable tolerability profile in a number of clinical trials. In this review, we will examine the evidence in the literature on this subject and advance suggestions on the most rational way to use this therapy in clinical practice.


Abstract We introduce a new family of N log N best basis search algorithms for functions of more than one variable. These algorithms search the collection of anisotropic wavelet packet and cosine packet bases and output a minimum entropy basis for a given function. These algorithms are constructed after treating the model problem of computing best Walsh packet bases. Several intermediate algorithms for conducting mixed isotropic/anisotropic best basis searches in the function's various coordinate directions are also presented.


1. A simple device sensitive enough to demonstrate the tonic neck reflex in healthy human subjects is described. It enables us to measure the magnitude of the reflex flexion or extension of the fore-arm at the elbow-joint.2. The regularity of the reflex effect exactly follows the formulation of Magnus and de Kleijn.3. Intensity of the tonic neck reflex is stronger in lower ages; it gradually diminishes as the age advances from juvenile to adult stage.4. Enhancement of the reflex intensity was observed in cases of oxygen deficiency and lack of sleep.5. Negative correlation between the intensity of the tonic neck reflex and the ability of quick repetitive movement was shown.


In this study, we aim at designing a smart glove, which consists of different inertial sensors and an EMG sensor and developing a human-machine interaction application by pre-processing and fusing these different sensory data. We also aim at providing solutions in cases where image processing-based approaches are inefficient. In the proposed smart glove, the quaternion-based orientation data to be produced by the magnetometer and gyroscope together, the acceleration data to be generated by the accelerometer, and the analog data generated by the EMG sensor are collected and then prepared for use by different applications.


Radish,commonly cultivated in Shanxi province,has rich germplasm resources and high utilization value.After years of collection and study,radish germplasm resources in Shanxi had been clarified.The typical and representative types had been propagated for preservation and utilization as well.Correct selection and rational utilization can raise different varieties and hybird types.


The use of computer visualizations in anatomy courses is expanding, but there is little evidence available suggesting that these visuals enhance learning of spatial anatomical information.


This paper establishes the equivalent analysis model of sliding plug door of high-speed train and sets the dynamic load when two high-speed trains pass each other.Using the model and dynamic load,it also conducts a modal analysis of the sliding door and numerically simulates the transient response of the door under dynamic load.


Plasma arc welding is a non-conventional form of welding which can be applied to almost any existing metals. The various process parameters in plasma arc welding such as plasma gas flow rate, torch height, front weld width, back weld width etc. play an important role in the prediction of the weld geometry and quality. Several heat transfer models have been developed predict the Weld Geometry. The plasma arc welds showcase excellent mechanical properties. The wide range of applications of the plasma arc welding ranges from electronics to aerospace industries. This paper is literature review of various theoretical and experimental studies by different researchers over the years. A Section of the paper also deals with the comparative review of plasma arc welding with respect to other existing forms of welding processes, based on existing literature content.


The historicity of the State Institute of Islamic Studies (IAIN) Pontianak actually brings us to an understanding that in fact IAIN Pontianak has so far taken part in preparing alumni who are skilled and competent in the field of Islamic religious sciences, such as Islamic education, Islamic law, and Islamic dakwa. This also signifies the responsibility of IAIN Pontianak in shaping the 'considerate and tolerant understanding of religion' and minimizing forms of religious radicalism on campus. This will be discussed further in this paper.


The comparison results between GOME level 2 products (mainly total ozone and nitrogen dioxide) from July through December 1996 and correlative ground-based observations from the SAOZ UV-visible network are presented over a wide range of latitudes from the Arctic to the Antarctic, including 1996 ozone hole conditions in Antarctica. Possible reasons for the observed discrepancies have been identified and quantified. On average the GOME version 2.0 and the SAOZ total ozone are in close agreement. However the comparison still shows a clear dependence on the solar zenith angle of the GOME measurement as well as a difference in sensitivity. When combined together, the SZA dependence and the reduced sensitivity result in a high ozone column underestimation which amplifies at large SZA. During ozone hole conditions in Antarctica, GOME and the ground-based instruments observe the high day-to-day variability similarly, although GOME overestimates the lowest ozone columns. Agreement between GOME and ground-based total NO2 is found to depend strongly on the NO2 profiles used as input in the AMF calculation, and particularly on the tropospheric content.


Many perceptual processes and neural computations, such as speech recognition, or motor control and learning, depend on the ability to measure and mark the passage of t ime. However, the neural mechanisms that make such temporal judgements possible are unknown. A numbe r of different hypotheses have been advanced, all of which depend on the known evolution of a neural [1] or psychological state, possibly through oscillations or the gradual decay of a memory trace [2,3]. We suggest a new model, which instead exploits the fact that neural and sensory processes, even when their p rec se evolution is unpredictable, exhibit statistically structured changes [4,5]. We show that this stru cture can be exploited for timing, and that reliable timing estimators can be derived from the statistics of the p rocesses. This framework of decoding time from stochastic processes allows for a much wider array of neural implementations of time estimation than has been considered so far, and can simultaneously emulate seve ral different behavioral findings, which so far have only been understood in psychological terms.


A reduction in the proportion of the desirable grass Heteropogon contortus (black speargrass) and an increase in the undesirable Aristida spp. (wiregrasses) are evident in commercially grazed pastures. This paper evaluates the efiectiveness of spring burning regimes over a period of 4 years (1989{92) in reversing this form of pasture degradation. Burning increased the proportion of H. contortus when pastures remained ungrazed but not when pastures were grazed, because cattle selectively grazed H. contortus after burning. Burning reduced the proportion of Aristida spp. and other undesirable grasses such as Bothriochloa decipiens and Chloris divaricata. A strong 'year of burning' efiect was evident. Burning increased recruitment of H. contortus which, in turn, increased plant density and later basal area. Burning reduced the basal area of Aristida spp. initially by reducing tussock size and later by reducing tussock numbers. Results indicate that spring burning can restore pasture composition and that burning in at least 2 successive years appears to be necessary. Light stocking rates should be adopted so that the proportion of H. contortus can be maintained and so that pastures can be burnt when and if required.


Abstract : This report presents the results of control systems analysis and their potential applications to control systems synthesis for high performance aircraft, and provides a proven, tractable and portable methodology to quantify the robust stability and performance of highly integrated digital fly-by-wire control systems. The H infinity-based mu-analysis approach has been recommended for quantitative evaluation of robust stability and performance of multi-input multi-output (MIMO) control systems. This approach for MIMO control systems evaluation is more effective than the algorithms based on gain margin and phase margin. Stability robustness, Performance robustness, Micro-Analysis and Micro- Synthesis


This cross-sectional study uses Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services claims data to investigate associations between influenza season severity and mortality and readmission risks after elective surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) among older adults.


Internationally, there is typically a strong correlation between growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and growth in energy consumption. Factors that drive this include electrification of rural areas and other government led infrastructure development, penetration of electrical equipment, housing size and commercial or industrial growth. This has not been the case in Kenya. In Kenya, the GDP growth has been flat while electricity demand has typically grown at 10% (Table 1). One would argue that increase in access to electricity would drive industrialization; this is not the case in Kenya. Instead the increase in manufacturing and other activities mentioned above drive increased demand which in turn drives capacity expansion. This can be seen in table 1 above which has led to positive growth in the manufacturing sector thus leading to increased demand in electricity sales in 2009/2010, further it is important to note that the world bank estimates that power shortages currently cost the country 2% in GDP growth. Additionally most commercial companies have to install a backup generator because of power instability. This increases the cost of doing business inhibiting rather than promoting industrialization.


In order to develop a high-performance computing system, not only a high-performance processor and accelerator, but also the system software for optimizing system performance and providing an efficient programming environment is essential. We are developing a device driver for a new parallel computing accelerator (called XPU). The driver aims to support OpenCL and control the XPU. As a first step, we developed XPU driver emulator (XDE) based on the XPU simulator to validate the design of the XPU hardware and device driver prior to hardware manufacturing. XDE supports OpenCL and offloads parallel computations to XPU simulator. XDE allows early development of runtime and compiler. This paper presents the architecture, functions, and operational flow of the XDE. This provides an opportunity to understand the XPU device driver to be developed in the future and technical considerations for the co-designing of hardware and system software.


 Our aim is to analyze sustainability on energy governance, recent trends of the electricity sector in Azerbaijan, in particular, the degree of efficiency of the electricity system and the tariff structure to give recommendations for future development and perspectives of energy sector development in Azerbaijan. We argue that government policy should be oriented towards identification of those factors that seek energy efficiency for sustainable development, uncover several laws, ensuring energy security, and encourage electricity market. Besides that by comparing electricity tariffs in Azerbaijan with some other European countries, we find advantages in the Azerbaijan-EU partnership on the energy field, thus we propose appropriate forms of cooperation regarding to European Neighborhood


Queueing is a common occurrence in various service industries, leading to customer stress and dissatisfaction. Accurate prediction of waiting times plays a crucial role in optimizing staff schedules and improving overall customer experience. While traditional statistical models are commonly used for queue prediction, this paper explores the application of a machine learning model to enhance waiting time predictions in queue-dependent industries. In this study, we propose a generic queuing device integrated with IoTtalk to provide a versatile solution applicable to different industries. This device automates and standardizes the waiting time prediction process across diverse industries. To improve the accuracy of waiting time predictions, we train a machine learning model using data collected from restaurant queues through an online ordering system, as well as publicly available bank queue data. Our results demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed model compared to previous works in accurately predicting customer waiting times. Furthermore, we optimize the proposed model by implementing techniques such as model simplification and compression. These optimization techniques result in a reduced model size, improved storage space requirements, and faster inference time. The integration of the queuing device with the optimized machine learning model facilitates enhanced queue management and efficient resource utilization.


This document presents a method to analytically approach the solution of partial differential equations (PDE) with a Feed-Forward Neural Network (FFNN). Such a solution should allow to introduce PDE into electrical or system simulators. Virtual design of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) would be the principal application. In this paper, the expression of the PDE solut ion is the sum of two terms. One satisfies the initial and/or boundary conditions. The other one includes a special FFNN, which implements a separated variable structure. The parameters of FFNN are adjusted so that the approximation will satisfy the equation all over its domain of validity. The criterion used to realize this task is the integral of the squared approximation error all over the domain of validity. This method is applied to a steady-state heat transfer problem. For this application, performances of our solution are compared with those of a finite elements method solution.


Abstract Based on adsorption theory, an equivalent viscosity model is derived. Under the condition of different film thicknesses, the thickness of adsorption layers hardly changes, but the load capacity of the oil film will increase rapidly as the oil-film thickness decreases. When the clearance is in the nanometre range, the pressure change will be more obvious. When this equivalent viscosity model is applied to calculate the bearing properties, the calculation results are consistent with Reynolds equation calculations in the thick-film range and in agreement with reports and experiments in the thin-film range


In Asia, an economic crisis has occurred simultaneously with an immense increase in the prevalence of HIV/AIDS fueled by inadequate responses to the epidemic. This response has been further weakened by sudden budget cuts and changes in government priorities, and the situation has been exacerbated by its suddenness and by the fact that large numbers of people are at risk and are unemployed. Also, Asian countries are now seeking entry into the pool of countries where donors support HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment programs just as donors are reducing their aid budgets. Prevention programs are being severely compromised even before they became effective, and efforts to secure treatment are hindered by high prices, by devalued national currencies, and by an increasing trend towards the privatization of health care. In the long run, efforts to restore economic stability will be hindered by the socioeconomic impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. In order to improve future prospects, the leadership of all national AIDS programs must reexamine the cost effectiveness of their priorities. Such a move would target marginalized groups, reduce use of expensive mass media campaigns, increase international cooperation over issues dealing with migrant workers, create programs recognizing the crucial role of women, increase the involvement of infected people in prevention programs, recognize the long-term socioeconomic benefits of providing adequate and equitable care and treatment, and recognize the benefits of prioritizing HIV/AIDS funding.


Five cases are reported in which cutaneous lesions—rashes and ulcers—developed during lithium treatment of manic behavior. These symptoms appeared during the first three weeks of treatment and responded well to a reduction in lithium dosage or treatment with antihistamines and steroids.


In this research project, the design and performance optimization techniques of a microelectromechanical (MEMS) condenser microphone will be studied and described using
several established plate theories and numerical analysis. MEMS microphone is shown to have been increasingly popular to be used in various consumer electronic products especially in the mobile phone industry and hearing aid devices. Thus, it is important for the microphone designers to be able to design and improve a microphone's performance
given sets of design constraints in the shortest time possible while reducing the overall overhead cost associated with the mass production exercise. The proposed new spring-supported diaphragm MEMS microphone has a higher
open-circuit sensitivity, sufficiently high pull-in voltage, adequate frequency response in the audio range bandwidth, and uses fewer fabrication masks to reduce the overall production cost and possibly reduce the production rejection rate. The mathematical modelling of the proposed spring diaphragm has been described in detail to relate its
performances with several of its structural dimensions such as spring width and length, diaphragm area, air gap distance, and diameter of backplate holes. Coventor FEM software has been used to simulate the mechanical performances of the final structure and to verify the mathematical modelling derived for the proposed spring microphone. Numerical results from Matlab and Coventor FEM software show that the proposed spring diaphragm has about 100 times higher sensitivity compared with the edgeclamped
diaphragm microphone of the same diaphragm area. Various numerical performance analysis graphs have been presented and used to obtain the optimizedmicrophone parameters by taking the points where the open-circuit sensitivity will be the highest, operating bandwidth of at least 20kHz, and the pull-in voltage threshold is at least 3 times its bias voltage.


If it were possible to elucidate the histopathologic findings predicting lymph node metastasis and prognosis in superficial squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus (SSCCE), they could be used as markers to identify patients who do not require additional surgical resection after endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR).


This paper discusses patriarchy culture and women's struggles in Pesan Cinta Dari Hujan, a novel written by Erni Aladjai (2010). Patriarchy culture can be seen in attitudes, behaviors, and actions conducted by male characters toward female characters. This paper adopts a feminist approach to explore patriarchy culture and women's struggles in the novel. The findings show that patriarchy culture includes violence of domestic or women, violence of education and building children's characters, and violence of space and movement given for self-actualization. Women characters' struggles to fight patriarchy culture are determination, tear, and running..


Objective To compare the corneal topography of patients with myopia and astigmatism 3 months after femtosecond lenticule extraction (Flex) and femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK).Methods In this prospective study,323 myopic eyes of 165 patients with astigmatism who underwent Flex or FS-LASIK from January to September in 2013 in Beijing Tongren Hospital were examined.An independent samples t test was used to compare visual acuity,refraction and corneal topography measurements 3 months after surgery.Results Three months after surgery,uncorrected visual acuities (UCVA) of logMAR in Flex and FS-LASIK were-0.10±0.08 and-0.11 ±0.10 and best corrected visual acuities (BCVA) were-0.11 ±0.07 and-0.12±0.07.These measurements were better than the BCVAs before surgery,which were-0.07±0.03 and-0.07±0.04 (t=4.083,5.594 and 3.458,6.440,P<0.01).No significant difference in postoperative UCVA was seen between Flex and FS-LASIK (t=-0.811,-1.864,P>0.05).The cutting decentration with Flex (0.29±0.17 mm) was smaller than with FS-LASIK (0.40±0.17 mm),respectively (t=5.662,P< 0.01).There was no correlation with spherical equivalent (SE) in Flex (r=0.122,P>0.05),but there was a positive correlation with SE in FS-LASIK (r=0.210,P<0.01).The postoperative surface regularity index (SRI) of Flex was higher than that of FS-LASIK,0.34±0.25 and 0.22±0.21,respectively (t=-4.627,P<0.01).Conclusion The cutting decentration of Flex is smaller than that of FS-LASIK,however the regularity of the corneal surface after FS-LASIK is better than that of Flex.Both techniques result in satisfactory visual acuity.

Key words:
Femtosecond lenticule extraction;  Keratomileusis,laser in situ,femtosecond laser; Topography ;  Refractive surgery


An optimized colloidal forming process of fine alumina ceramic was investigated. The better prescription preparing above slurry was got, and various factors including pH value, dispersants type and amount, monomer, milling time, etc, were studied, which obviously influence the rheological property of suspension. The experimental results show that, the slurry with high solid loading(58%) and the green compacts with homogeneous microstructure, strength of more than 20MPa, were obtained through controlling the temperature(50~70℃) and time of the process. Finally, reiterating changes between gel-soft and stiffness in different conditions, was discovered, as a new property, which is very convenient to machining ceramic parts.


is ve-volume collection (with individual volumes available separately) provides a comprehensive overview of the regulation approach to capitalism and its crisis-tendencies. Edited by a major British contributor to the approach, the collection includes not only key theoretical and empirical works from leading French regulationists but also representative work from other regulation schools and scholars. It also includes major critiques of the approach. Topics covered include regulationist approaches to the labour process, accumulation regimes (especially Fordism and post-Fordism), modes of social regulation, forms of state intervention, and the crisis tendencies of capitalism. Contributions cover di erent periods and di erent countries as well as di erent sectors and the changing global economy as a whole. e set includes both pioneer works and recent theoretical innovations and also explores the links between regulationism and other approaches, such as institutionalism, radical geography, critical discourse analysis, and feminism. is collection will be an essential reference work in institutional and evolutionary economics, in radical political economy, and in all social science disciplines concerned with capitalism and its crisis-tendencies.


Through improving the existing safety comprehensive assessment methods of booster and loading reinforcement assessment methods,a safety assessment model of missile rail transport is set up.Actual risk degree of missile transport can be calculated by using improved safety assessment method.The most dangerous sources which existing the transport process are analyzed and simulated by the consequences simulation of a major accident,and gets hazard range to person and object after the accident.Using safety assessment methods of loading reinforcement,the program of loading reinforcement is assessed,and the danger comprehensive extent of the rail transport is obtained.The assessment model can provide reference for safety assessment of dangerous goods transport of the rail transport sector.


FIELD: mechanical engineering; transport internal combustion engines. SUBSTANCE: electronic control unit has first processor 10 adapted for calculating fuel requirements of engine and ignition advance angle and for control of multiple diagnostic tests for checking parameters of engine. Second processor 12 controls ignition and timing and beginning of fuel injection. Second processor 12 is adapted for control of engine in case of failure of first processor 10 using look-up tables of pulse width for fuel feed and ignition advance. Thanks to it automobile remains under control even in case of failure of part of electronic control module. EFFECT: enlarged operating capabilities with use of nonexpensive electronic control module. 7 cl, 2 dwg


Although commercial and household wastes are compositionally similar, common UK practice is for separate collections. This paper uses vehicle routing and scheduling software to predict the benefits of allowing household and commercial wastes to be collected together by a common vehicle fleet. This was compared in a case study in which collections were made from over 25,000 households on an alternate-weekly basis and from 577 commercial premises having one or more collections each week. Modelled joint collections reduced vehicle mileage by up to 9.8%, equating to an annual saving of around £36,800 and a carbon equivalent saving of 2688 kg per annum. The modelled benefits were greatest when a common starting time (6 a.m.) was adopted for the commercial and household collections. The modelled rounds were estimated to have sufficient time and vehicle capacity available to allow an additional 50% of commercial waste to be collected, equating to 35.8 tonnes per week.


The research aims to know the influence of: 1). Occupational Safety to the employee productivity on PT. Barokah Perkasa Group . 2). Occupational Health to the employee productivity on PT. Barokah Perkasa Group . 3). Occupational Safety and Health simultaneously to the employee productivity on PT. Barokah Perkasa Group . Population that used in this research are all employee production and repair department of PT. Barokah Perkasa Group, wich are 125 employees. Sample research are 56 respondens by Slovin formula and sampling techniquethat used is random sampling. The analysis tools that used multiple linier regression analysis, hypothesis test, and classic assumption test. The results of the study concluded that: 1). Partially based on the significance of work safety variables a positive and significant effect on employee productivity. 2). Based on the partial significance test, occupational health variables have positive and significant effects on employee productivity. 3). Based on the simultaneous significance test, it is produced that occupational safety and health variables simultaneously have positive and significant effects on employee productivity.


Mass balance estimation of nitrogen, carbon, phosphorus and total suspended solids in the urban eutrophic, Pampulha reservoir, Brazil. This article deals with the estimation of the nutrient retention capacity of a small tropical reservoir. The main objective of this study was to estimate the mass balance of water, essential nutrients (carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus) and total suspended solids and to determine which tributary have the major contribution of maintaining the poor water quality of the reservoir. Seven main streams, a central point in the reservoir and its outlet were sampled monthly from January 1998 to December 1998. Nutrient inputs were higher during the rainy season. Pampulha reservoir retained most of the incoming nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) and exported particulate organic carbon in the rainy season. The lower residence time found for total phosphorus and the high retention percentage found for this element suggest that it is the limiting nutrient in Pampulha. Finally, the study identified two tributaries that contribute to the bulk of nutrient input as well as organic matter, and consequently, to the water quality degradation of the reservoir: the Ressaca/Sarandi and Agua Funda streams.


Indonesia has problem with its world competitiveness especially in technology innovation, including in construction; this study explores the technology and innovation management alternatives including forms of innovation-based projects, incubation, and partnering approach; it also in-depth studies the existing roles of government, private, and university in making the industrialization of construction technology innovation possible. Finally a recommendation for industrialization of construction technology innovation in Indonesia up to 2022 and beyond is made by looking the readiness of each parties in running each roles.


In more than 30 years,China has achieved a big leap in social economy by means of reform and openingup. Compared to the rapid economic growth,social development is lagging behind. The tension between value rationality and tool rationality unfolded prematurely,consequently various social and ideological questions entwined together complicatedly,contemporary China is facing the profound crisis of values,and the territory of the core traditional socialism value is eroded gradually by value relativism. in conclusion,core values corresponding with harmonious society need urgently to establish.


Sir, I appreciated the recent interesting paper on factors influencing outcome in intensive care unit (ICU) cardiac arrest patients by Lee et al. This paper reports that receiving enteral nutrition within 24 h of cardiac arrest was associated with a significantly higher 3-month survival [odds ratio (OR) = 9.943, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.961–50.426]. Prompt enteral feeding may significantly reduce both morbidity and mortality in cardiac arrest patients and patients with many other acute illnesses. A meta-analysis of randomised enteral nutrition trials on ICU patients reported that providing enteral nutrition within 24 h of severe injury and/or ICU admission was associated with significantly lower mortality (OR = 0.34, 95% CI 0.14–0.85; six trials with 234 patients) and significantly lower pneumonia rates (OR = 0.31, 95% CI 0.12– 0.78; two trials with 80 patients) as compared with patients who did not receive enteral nutrition within 24 h. A meta-analysis of 16 published studies of head trauma patients reported that early enteral feeding (before 12–72 h after injury) was associated with significantly lower mortality [relative risk (RR) 0.35; 95% CI 0.24–0.50; seven studies with 1364 total patients] and significantly lower infection rates (RR = 0.77, 95% CI 0.59–0.99; four studies with 169 total patients) compared with patients without early enteral nutrition. A study of 138 patients with 10–80% skin surface burns reported significantly lower pneumonia rates (38% vs. 15%, P = 0.04) in patients receiving adequate enteral nutrition (30–40 cal/kg/day) as compared with burn patients who did not receive enteral nutrition. A study of acute pancreatitis patients reported that 97 patients who received enteral nutrition within 48 h of admission had significantly lower rates of infected necrosis/fluid collection (4.4% vs. 18.0%, P = 0.002), respiratory failure (5.2% vs. 15.0%, P = 0.022) and mortality (0.0% vs. 9.0%, P = 0.007) as compared with 100 acute pancreatitis patients who did not receive enteral nutrition in the first 48 h. Prompt and adequate enteral nutrition is vital to reduce mortality and morbidity in many types of acutely ill patients. Much more clinical and research attention is needed on the nutritional needs of patients with heart attacks and other serious conditions. Conflict of interest: None.