INTRODUCTION: Spine surgeons face numerous challenges when managing postoperative pain. Although opioid-based management remains the gold standard for the treatment of postoperative pain, opioid consumption is associated with respiratory depression, sedation, pruritus, ileus, nausea, vomiting, and other complications. Lidocaine, a commonly used local anesthetic, also has documented anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-emetic properties. However, its potential as an adjunctive analgesic to minimize reliance on opioid-based therapy remains controversial. METHODS: We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing adjunctive intravenous lidocaine to placebo control for pain management after spine surgery. The following databases were searched: PubMed, Clinicaltrials.gov, Cochrane Library, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Clarivate Analytics Web of Science, and World Health Organization International Clinical Trial Register Platform. Postoperative morphine equivalent consumption was compared using standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Complications such as nausea, vomiting, pneumonia, delirium, and wound infection were compared using odds ratios (OR) and 95% CI. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of three RCTs were included in quantitative synthesis, comprising 235 patients. Cumulative morphine equivalent consumption was not significantly different between lidocaine and control groups (SMD = -1.69, 95% CI: -3.65 to 0.27, p = 0.09) at 48 hours postoperatively. There was no statistical significance between groups in terms of the following adverse events: nausea (OR = 1.40, 95% CI: 0.73 to 2.71, p = 0.31), vomiting (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 0.76 to 3.34, p = 0.22), pneumonia (OR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.76 to 3.34, p = 0.48), delirium (OR = 3.00, 95% CI: 0.12 to 76.24, p = 0.51), or surgical site infection (OR = 3.05, 95% CI: 0.12 to 76.54, p = 0.50). CONCLUSION: There was no significant difference between the average cumulative morphine equivalent consumption of patients in the lidocaine and control groups at 48 hours after surgery. The addition of lidocaine did not significantly increase the rates of postoperative complications such as nausea, vomiting, pneumonia, delirium, or surgical site infections.


This paper maps some of the notable influences on the evolution of Pan Africanism in South Africa with reference to the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC). It does so by exploring the history of the ideas of the PAC founded on the 6th of April in 1959. The interrelated questions explored are: Is there a tradition of Africanist thought intrinsically linked to the birth of the PAC as a liberation movement in South Africa? What are the lineages of the PAC's intellectual traditions? Given the PAC's short history as a legal political formation before it was banned in 1960, is there a tradition of ideas to reflect upon? What are the roots of these ideas, firstly, as manifest in there framing by liberation movements of the wars of resistance against colonial conquestas intrinsically linked to new 20th century struggles for national liberation? Secondly, how did these ideas manifest in the anti-colonial struggle's further development or transmutation into early freedom struggles as articulated by the emergent African intelligentsia particularly after the Second World War? Thirdly, what was the influence on the PAC by other African independence struggles, particularly the independence of Ghana in 1957. And fourthly, is there a tradition of Africanist thought in the anti-colonial struggle's global connections and the intricacies and challenges posed by the exile experiences of the PAC from 1960 to 1993.


The paper introduces the characteristics of palladium jewelry and analyzes the market status of palladium jewelry in China in order to let the consumers know more about the property, price and national standard of the material since it is now available on the market. It is believed that with the marketing promotion of the palladium jewelry and more and more novel palladium jewelries appearing on the market consumers will face a brilliant era of palladium jewelry.


Every three years an international North Sea survey is carried out by two European institutes, Institute for Marine Research (IMR) from Norway and Institute for Marine Resources and Ecosystem Studies (IMARES) from the Netherlands, to monitor the spatial and seasonal distribution of North Sea mackerel. In 2011 the North Sea mackerel egg survey was performed. The entire spawning area was sampled by IMR, Norway and IMARES, The Netherlands. The whole spawning area was sampled three times. IMARES covered the complete sampling area in the first period, in the second period IMR covered the northern part and IMARES the southern part of the spawning area. The third period the whole spawning area was covered by IMR. In total 190 ichthyoplankton samples were taken with a Gulf VII plankton torpedo with a Seabird CTD mounted on top. Additionally, adult fish samples for the estimation of fecundity and atresia were taken using a pelagic trawl. The survey was successful and IMARES managed to sample all but 3 of the planned stations. Numbers of mackerel eggs found in the samples were comparable to 2008. Total mackerel egg production in 2011 was 116*1012 and Spawning Stock Biomass (SSB) was estimated at 165*103 tons, which is slightly higher compared to 2008. Highest egg production was found in the first sampling week and it is possible that the beginning of mackerel spawning is missed.


Background: This study was undertaken to explore the predictive value of the advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI) combined with the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) for all-cause mortality in patients with CHF. Methods and Results : We enrolled 1123 patients with HF admitted to our cardiology department from January 2017 to October 2021. Patients were divided into Group 1 (ALI<24.60 and GNRI<94.41), Group 2 (ALI<24.60 and GNRI[≥]94.41), Group 3 (ALI[≥]24.60 and GNRI<94.41) and Group 4 (ALI[≥]24.60 and GNRI[≥]94.41), according to the median ALI and GNRI. From the analysis of the relationship between the ALI and GNRI, we concluded that there was a mild positive linear correlation (r= 0.348, p< 0.001) and no interaction (p=0.140) between the ALI and GNRI. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality in patients with CHF was highest in Group 1 (log-rank {chi}2 126.244, p<0.001). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed that ALI and GNRI were independent predictors of all-cause mortality in CHF patients (ALI: HR 0.313, 95% CI 0.228-0.430, p <0.001; GNRI: HR 0.966, 95% CI 0.953-0.979, p <0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) for ALI combined with GNRI was 0.711 (p<0.001), according to the time-dependent ROC curve.


This electricity controls in the system,adopt Geman Siemens Company to produce the PLC S7 - 300 and S7 - 400 go together with the necessity of examination, the control module and the manifestation appearances and computer superuise and control. Completes in the leather belt movement process, the logic, the time, the speed direction control, the PID closed - loop control, the safe keeping of security and so on the many kinds of functions.


Mutual diffusion coefficients for 2-(diethylamino)ethanol (2) in water (1) were experimentally obtained by the Taylor dispersion technique from x2 = 0 to ≈ 0.2, at T = 298 K and T = 303 K. Viscosities and surface tensions were measured in the entire composition range using capillary viscometry and ring tensiometry, respectively. Viscosities were measured at the above temperatures, and surface tensions were measured at intervals of 5 K in the temperature range from (283 to 303) K. Information about intermolecular interactions, hydration modes, and solute aggregation is provided through the combined study of the observed changes in diffusion coefficients, viscosities, and surface tension with composition. Conclusions obtained are compared with those taken from volumetric and optical properties for the same system.


Because routing protocols are the kernel of the Internet, more and more researchers are analyzing routing protocol testing to assure the correctness and reliability of the Internet. This paper presents a framework for routing protocol testing. Routing protocol testing should be treated as a whole rather than traditional protocol test limits. A new abstract test method, the dip in test method, was developed after analyzing various routing protocols. In the dip in test method, the router input and output are evaluated in a real running environment. Concurrent TTCN is recommended for the routing protocols test suite notation. A real tester, the Distributed Routing Protocol Test System (DRPTS), was designed and implemented to play an important role in router development and routing protocol testing.


Advanced geographic information systems (GIS) are defacto, the practical standards for interfaces in most decision making and decision making support systems. Consequently, the need to integrate GIS technologies with hi level information fusion (IF) appears obvious. Environment strongly affects the full range of tactical situation parameters and in some cases geo-data is the key factor in certain decision making situations. This paper proposes an approach to analyzing theoretical problems derived from GIS based situation awareness (SAW) solutions. It will also show that for this purpose it is necessary first and foremost to utilize two ontologies GIS and SAW together, to develop a technology that will derive practical results. The paper is also suggests a SAW case study for resolving maritime search situations using a GIS basis


The paper deals with the closedness of ranges and the surjectivity of realizations related to linear partial differential operators L(x,D). A characterization (with the help of a certain coercivity condition) of the surjectivity of the maximal realization L'' k, G in BP, k( G ) c D'(Ci )I ti for some 1' E B ,, , k)is established. Here 2pk (p £ ( 0, 1), k € K )is the Hdrmander space. Furthermore, the closedness of the range R(A,k(G)) corresponding to the minimal realization A k( 0) in local i-Iörmander spaces G) = U € D'(G )I 41 si £ Bp , k for any 'I' £ C°(G )} is considered.


A new triangular-based adaptive mesh finite element numerical model for tsunami propagation (and inundation) simulations, called TsunaFLASH, have been developed and successfully validated up to a certain level [Pranowo et al., 2008; Pranowo and Behrens, 2009]. This approach is meant for improving the computational efficiency and accuracy.We will present the recent results of an investigation on the bottom friction and smagorinsky difussivity term applied for the test case of Andaman minor tsunami 2009, a sensitivity test for the adaptation algorithm, and more simulation based on the diverse source model for the Sumatra-Andaman 2004 events.


The reform of judgment reason is a reform of the judicial system rather than a technical one. Judgment reason has the function of supporting a judicial judgment. Its reform may be effective in restraining judicial corruption, improving personal qualities of the judges and promoting the role of the judicial community.


In this research, the selected Citrus fruit, namely lemon (Citrus limonia Osbeck) was collected from Kay Tu Mady Myothit, Toungoo Township, Pegu Region, Myanmar. According to the phytochemical tests, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, reducing sugar, terpenes, glycosides, tannins and saponins were found to be present in this Citrus fruit while steroids was absent. Nutritional values such as moisture content (91.86), ash content (0.32%), protein content (0.37%),fiber content (0.35%) and fat content (0.08%) in juice of Citrus Limon were analyzed by AOAC method. The analysis of some elemental contents presents in juice of Citrus limonia Osbeck were investigated by AAS Method. The vitamin C content (58mg/100 mL) in juice of Citrus limonia Osbeck was determined by iodometric titration method.


In the present work, attempt has been made to automate the irrigation system without the human interface by using the programmable logic controller. The purpose of this paper is to utilize the available water and electricity in an effective way with increase in the productivity. This paper is to develop a self-governing irrigation system with the use of soil moisture sensor to schedule the irrigation.


The phytochemical study on dichlorometane extracts of leaves, stem and roots of Piper mollicomum Kunth (Piperaceae) led to isolation of the known piperamides tembamide (1), (R)-(-)-tembamide acetate (2) and riparin I (3). Compounds 1 and 2 displayed moderate in vitro antifungal activity against Cladosporium cladosporioides (5.0 μg) and Cladosporium sphaerospermum (1.0 μg) by direct bioautographic analyses and compound 3 was inactive up to 100.0 μg.


The interest of this paper is to identify the impact of ICT diffusion and the nature of the political regime on growth and the contribution of the synergy between digital technology and a democratic environment and the effectiveness of legal an economy. At this level, we are dealing with an empirical study using panel data for a group of 32 countries organized in two sub-samples, democratic and non-democratic during the period 1994-2011. The analysis need to include in the model of Solow founder, economic variables, institutional and interaction. The results suggest that efficiency in ICT adoption can be explained by a simultaneous game of three categories of factors: long time like a major technological change, such as a medium-term investment boom and quotas as a number of favorable circumstances. The quality of political and governmental institutions may enroll in fact in part contingent factors are favorable paving the way for ICT to generate its economic benefits.


Since 2015, the Short Line Safety Institute (SLSI) has been conducting voluntary, non-punitive, confidential assessments of the safety culture at participating short line and regional railroads (i.e., Class II and Class III railroads). The SLSI defines safety culture as the shared values, actions, and behaviors that demonstrate a commitment to safety over competing goals and demands, based on the US Department of Transportation (DOT) Safety Council safety culture definition (Morrow & Coplen, 2017). The SLSI's Safety Culture Assessment (SCA) process utilizes the most robust model, based on a review of published literature, as highlighted in this report.


A cost-effective vitreous carbon (VC) mold was prepared for the molding of aspherical glass lens by carbonization of replicated furan precursor from the diamond turning machined aluminum master mold.


Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic is the first of its kind that doctors have encountered in their clinical practice, offering several challenges in all aspects of their lives. The aim of this study was to look into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the personal and professional lives of doctors.


The central focus of the present study is the numerical calculation of flutter derivatives. These aeroelastic coefficients play an important role in determining stability, or rather, instability of long, flexible structures under ambient wind loading. In recent years, the Finite Element Method (FEM) has gained considerable acceptance in the solution of problems governed by the viscous, incompressible flow equations. FIDAP is one such general fluid dynamics analysis package that makes use of Finite Element methodology. The most direct way of obtaining flutter derivatives would be to simulate the full oscillatory object motion in a flow and use the unsteady lift and moment forces thus determined. This would essentially entail an internal boundary motion in the flow, which requires considerable computational effort in the case of most Eulerian non-adaptive grid-based numerical methods. However, the alternative indicial function approach investigated in this study limits itself to step changes in motional variables. Inherent to using this approach, then, is the assumption of reduced computational complexity.


Manganese complexes were synthesized through the reaction with corresponding ligands N′-(3,5-dichloro-2-hydroxybenzylidene)-2-pyridinecarbohydrazide(H2L1)in ethanol aqueous solution by hydrothermal method.The compositions of complexes were determined to be[Mn4(L1)4(DMF)4]respectively by element alanalysis,UV,IR and XRD.The results of the activity for removing radical showed that manganese complexes was an ideal mimic SOD enzyme,its IC50 value was 0.53μM,activity was 1.2%of the natural SOD enzyme activity and suitable for a mimic SOD.The mechanism of removing O2-·by N′-(3,5-dichloro-2-hydroxybenzylidene)-2-pyridinecarbohydrazide manganese complexes had been discussed.


Background: Exposure to hyperoxia causes extensive injury to lung tissue, which resembles the pathologic changes of the adult respiratory distress syndrome. To observe the relationship between the pulmonary oxygen toxicity and duration of exposure to oxygen, 100% oxygen was exposed to Wistar rats. Methods: 35 rats were partitioned into 5 groups (n=7 in each group). Gr. I breathed room air. Gr. II, III, IV and V were exposed to 99~100% oxygen for 24 hrs, 48 hrs, 60 hrs and 72 hrs. Wet lung/body weight (WW/BW), dry lung/body weight (DW/BW), wet/dry lung weight (WW/DW) and I-albumin flux ratio were measured in each group. Results: After exposure for 72 hrs in Gr. V, 3 rats were dead. WW/BW in Gr. I was 0.69±0.04 and increased to 1.10±0.28 in Gr.II (P<0.05), which was maintaind until 60 hrs. It showed marked increase in Gr. V; 2.16±0.60. DW/BW, WW/DW and I-albumin flux ratio increased after 48 hrs of hyperoxia. WW/BW and DW/BW in Gr. V and I-flux ratio in Gr. IV showed significant increase compared with Gr. I, II and III. Conclusions: The results suggest that pulmonary capillary permeability begins to change after 24 hrs of hyperoxia and that definite permeability change to albumin and fluid accumulation in the lung are demonstrable from 48 hrs-exposure to 99~100% oxygen and aggravated by duration of oxygen exposure. (Korean J Anesthesiol 1996; 30: 15~19)


Shallow gas accumulations in tight reservoirs on basin margins fall into three distinct systems: early generation biogenic, late generation biogenic, and nonassociated thermogenic. Fields tend to be large (50-100 sq mi), shallow (<2000-3000 ft) and have relatively low cumulative production (1-2 BCF/sq mi). Each system has a representative archetype with distinctive attributes and characteristic gas compositions.


Recent theoretical literature in development economics has shown that nonconvex production technologies can result in low‐growth poverty traps. This article uses detailed microenterprise surveys in Mexico to examine the empirical evidence for these nonconvexities at low levels of capital stock. While theory emphasizes nondivisible start‐up costs that exceed the wealth of many potential entrepreneurs, this article shows start‐up costs to be very low in some industries. Semiparametric methods are then used to flexibly estimate returns to capital in microenterprises. Much higher returns are found at low levels of capital stock than at higher levels, and this remains true after controlling for firm characteristics and measures of entrepreneurial ability. Overall, little evidence of production nonconvexities is found at low levels of capital. The absence of nonconvexities is a significant finding because it suggests that access to start‐up capital does not determine the ultimate size of the enterprise.


Introduction. Palliative care has evolved to identify the specific needs of
patients with severe and incurable diseases. An estimated 46,000 patients in the
Republic of Croatia require some form of palliative care. The aim of this study
is to examine nurses' knowledge of palliative care.

Methods. A cross-sectional study included 198 nurses. The survey was
conducted during March and April of 2017. As a survey instrument, a 2-part
questionnaire was used. The first part dealt with sociodemographic data and the
second part consisted of a standardized palliative care quiz for nursing (PCQN)
questionnaire.

Results. Respondents gave the most correct answers in the area of pain
and other symptoms control. It was found that there was no significant
difference in gender, age, or seniority in knowledge of palliative care.
Respondents who received informal education showed better knowledge.

Conclusion. From the study conducted, we can conclude that nurses have
insufficient knowledge of palliative care.


This paper presents a technique to use deep neural network on data analysis of distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) system built by phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (φ-OTDR) with Rayleigh enhancement. Rayleigh backscattering is enhanced by ultrafast laser direct writing technique that promise the excellent sensitivity. And the use of artificial intelligence (AI) drastically improve the efficiency of data pattern recognition.


The landscape of the Demarcated Douro Region (DDR) reflects a valuable history and the high quality wines that are produced there, notably Port wine. Throughout its 250 000 hectares of terraced vineyards we also find manor houses in the farms or in architectural complexes in some inhabited places. Thus the "World Heritage" classification awarded by UNESCO in December 2001 is amply justified. Although the rural areas prevail, the landscape is also characterized by multifunctional urban areas, with a superb architectural heritage, and classified areas, such as Vila Real, district capital, Lamego, an Episcopal city, and Peso da Regua, the "capital of Port". The landscape continues eastwards with Tabuaco and S. Joao da Pesqueira, with its manor houses, and Torre de Moncorvo and Vilarica Valley, in addition to Freixo de Espada a Cinta, a Manueline town. And how can we ignore the "Coa Valley Archaelogical Park", also classified by UNESCO, and the "International Douro Natural Park", with its headlands and cliffs? Although the vineyards and wine are the mainstay of the singular Douro landscape, the existence of a diverse landscape and architecture that need to be protected is unquestionable. Against a backdrop in which the tourist dimension is increasingly emphasized in the activities that need to be undertaken to develop the DDR, how do we plan the rural spaces without underestimating or changing the nature of the many regional strengths? How do we increase the sustainability of this landscape and its heritage? What is the role of the manor houses scattered in the rural areas? It is possible to characterize some of the dynamics associated to these manor houses and their local and regional impact by interviewing the representatives of some of these Douro manor houses, indicative of different development strategies, in addition to thorough field work and documentary research.


It has been demonstrated widely that at isoluminance moving chromatic stimuli arc seen to be stationary or moving more slowly than their luminance counterparts. We have examined the effect on perceived velocity of adding luminance contrast to an isoluminant chromatic stimulus. We show that mount; luminance contrast 'captures' colour so that a combined colour and luminance stimulus is seen moving as a unified percept. However, in the presence of colour contrast, significantly higher levels of luminance contrast are required to achieve a veridical velocity than for monochromatic stimuli with only luminance contrast. We show that this interactive effect between colour and luminance contrast cannot be fully explained by a threshold masking of luminance by colour contrast. The effect suggests that a breakdown in the veridical perception of velocity should be expected for colours with a wide range of associated luminance contrasts and not just for those at the point of isoluminance.


This propounding bachelor work titled "Gambler in the current institutional care" deals with gambling addiction and pathological gambling aiming particular gamblers who are currently situated at the institutional treatment. Theoretical part of this work is focused on such terms as addiction, gambling and points the impacts on family and society. The above mentioned work also describes the treatment of addictional problems including the prevention. The practical part of the work is aimed at the method of research using interviews with treating gamblers on which it detects the current causes and reasons of pathological gambling. The main goal of the research is to find out the motivation of a pathological gambler for his institutional treatment in terms of his own addiction. The work also proposes subsequently the efficient form of prevention that could moderate the negative impacts of gambling and thereby decline the occurence of this phenomenon within the society.


Bortner's Type A Behaviour Questionnaires were used to explore the work behaviour of Chinese managers and entrepreneurs in Taiwan and to investigate how that behaviour was influenced by occupation, age and gender. One hundred and seventeen subjects participated in the study, of which 45 were also interviewed. The mean score on the questionnaire was 74.68, the median (74) and the mode (76) within a scoring range of 0–140. Eighty-four subjects registered scores of 80 or less (Type B behaviour) and 33 came within the mid-range of 81–120. None of the subjects registered scores of 121–40 (Type A behaviour). The highest score of 113 was registered by a female bank vice-president and the lowest (47) by a male manager working in a charitable organization and about to retire. The results are discussed within the context of Chinese cultural traditional and parenting practices, the unique characteristics of Taiwan's recent history and the subjects' career experience.


Any electrically powered system is only as reliable as the supply which feeds it. This article reviews the types of uninterruptible-power-supply systems available to ensure a reliable, continuous supply to vital equipment


Intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) is a long-standing and global phenomenon, that is considered, both public health and social problem which seems difficult to tackle (Gracia et al., 2019; Wemrell et al., 2021). Although some research suggests that gender equality plays an important role in reducing IPVAW (Gracia et al., 2019; Wemrell et al., 2021), the so-called Nordic Paradox – a situation where seemingly the most gender equal states, i.e., Nordic countries (including, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland) report the highest numbers of IPVAW – appears to contradict this supposition (Gracia & Merlo, 2016). To date, there is no agreement as to why, and whether, this is the case. In this short paper, I shall review three academic articles that aim to address this contradiction, focusing on their methodologies and limitations.

In this essay, firstly, I will discuss how I approached the literature search. Secondly, I will present an overview of IPVAW and the Nordic paradox. Thirdly, I will discuss Gracia and colleagues (2019) and Permanyer and Gomez-Casillas's (2020) analysis, which are based on the same survey (FRA, 2014). Fourthly, I will examine the chosen literature and lastly, I will consider whether, and if so to what extent, high gender equality score and violence against women go hand in hand.


Abstract : A linear, four-element, adaptive heterodyne optical receiver array employing semiconductor lasers is described. The array adaptively adjusts the phase of each subaperture IF signal to correct for wavefront tilt and distortion and nonuniform optical and RF path delays across the array by phase locking each channel to a reference channel. (Author)


The Galois group of an extension generated over Q by several fourth roots is obvious when those fourth roots are suciently general. If we wish to compute the Galois group in a collection of specific cases, though, generic algorithms become inecient. We give an algorithm consisting mostly of linear algebra which computes not only the global Galois group but also the local decomposition groups, as subgroups of the generic Galois group.


The reviewed scientific monograph is the first book devoted entirely to a very important issue: the evolution of the institution of the head of state in Poland from 1918 to 1997. The head of state in this period functioned in various constitutional-legal forms, both individual (Chief of State, President of the Republic of Poland, Chairman of the State National Council) and collegial (Presidium of the State National Council, State Council). These different legal regulations undoubtedly influenced the current construction of the provisions of the Constitution of the Republic of Poland of 1997 pertaining to the President of the Republic of Poland. The main advantage of the monograph, besides the insightful legal analyses, is the presentation of the constitutional practice and the historical background concerning the functioning of the head of state in the analysed period.


The utility model discloses a multi-functional hospital bed, comprising a bedstead and a bed surface. An opening is available for the rise & fall of the excrement container, also, a turn-over cap is arranged under the bed surface and over against the opening for the excrement container. As turn-over cap is turned up, the inner side thereof will form a shelter space for discharging the excrement. The said bed surface is composed of the left front surface, the right front surface, the left middle surface, the right middle surface, the left back surface and the right back surface. Such surfaces are hinged each other and rowed as per ''double-cross'' shaped. The lifting motion is mounted under the bed surface to control each side of the bed surface. This hospital bed could achieve the inverting function to a plurality of the directions so as to solve such problems as turning over and going to toilet. The turn-over cap not only protects the privacy of the patient but also guards against the splashing down of the excrement, so as to keep the sanitation of the hospital bed. Therefore, it facilitates the medical treatment and the daily life of the patient as well as decreases the patient's sufferings and the quality of service.


Rock-wallaby populations in central desert regions are insidiously disappearing through a continuing process of local extinctions. Their survival will depend on collaboration between Aboriginal Councils and communities, and conservation agencies. While collaborative survey work to locate rock-wallaby populations has been successful, the next step of managing remnant populations will be more challenging. Differences in concepts of extinction and the preservation of bio-diversity, funding constraints and the cultural appropriateness of management programs are important factors which need to be addressed. These issues are examined with examples of recent initiatives in Western Australia.


PURPOSE: A pressure sensitive adhesive composition obtained by incorporating into conventional adhesives a small amount of a functionalized organopolysiloxane having a low molecular weight, an optional curing agent and a curing catalyst, tape and label using the same are provided, which can be peeled with ease from the surface without contamination or detriment of an adherent surface after used for a long period of time CONSTITUTION: The pressure sensitive adhesive composition comprises 0.5 to 10 parts by weight of a functionalized organopolysiloxane having a molecular weight of 300 to 50,000, 100 parts by weight of adhesive resin having a molecular weight of 50,000 to 2,000,000, if necessary a curing agent, wherein the curing agent such as isocyanate compound or isocyanate and mixtures of organotin is used in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight based on the organopolysiloxane.


Today's competitive business environment imposes new challenges to manufacturing companies. For these companies to survive in this environment, implementing product lifecycle management (PLM) technologies with an emphasis on cost control is one valid approach. PLM is a strategic business approach that applies a consistent set of business solutions to help manufacturing companies manage all the activities related to a product in an integrated way across the lifecycle from customer need to product recycling and disposal. Product lifecycle cost is an important measure for PLM implementation. It can help track and analyze the financial information of activities associated with each phase of a product's lifecycle. The paper presents a framework of the product lifecycle costing system for supporting decision making, especially the decision making at very early stages of a product lifecycle. It can be used as a design support tool to help new product development. A number of methodologies and tools are developed in the system. The case based reasoning method is used to quickly build a new product model. The costs of product development processes related to the new product are calculated using activity based costing methods. Dynamic programming is then used to obtain an optimal set of product development processes with the objective of optimizing the overall product development cost. This system is built using object oriented modeling methods.


Book reviewed:

Christology in Dialogue with Muslims: A Critical Analysis of Christian Presentations of Christ for Muslims from the Ninth and Twentieth Centuries, Mark Beaumont, Regnum Books International 2005 (1-870345-46-0), xxiv + 227 pp., pb £19.99


A top Oldbury businessman and charity supporter was made an Honorary Freeman of Sandwell at a special ceremony on Saturday.


This paper describes the socio-economic aspects of the practice of goat-keeping in the Central and Lower Luni basin. Goats are kept by 29.0 per cent of the households. Some households keep a few goats primarily for milk purposes. Others keep both sheep and goats since the latter are regarded as necessary for raising sheep. The coefficient of correlation between ownership of sheep and goats is +.762. Traditional herding and management practices are followed by the flock raisers. Households having large flocks of goats have to resort to nomadism in periods of climatic stress. The raising of goats and sheep is the traditional occupation of Raikas, but in recent years Jats and Rajputs have also taken to this occupation. Only 8.8 per cent 01 the households keeping goat. And sheep did not have an agricultural holding. The coefficient of correlation between size of agricultural holding and number of goats and sheep owned is-.133. The keeping of goats and sheep is more common with households living in dhanis . The importance of the goat lies not merely in the returns this hardy animal gives to the owner but also in its role as an aid to the raising of sheep. Rather than liquidating the goat from the region it would be better to control its grazing and reduce its number through selective breeding and management.


Using LabVIEW software to design remote monitoring and control system in greenhouse environment can provide a good greenhouse environment for the growth of agricultural crops and can improve output and quality of agricultural crops.Therefore,based on LabVIEW software development platform,greenhouse environment remote monitoring system was designed.The system realized collection of data and remote monitoring.Study result indicated that the design of the system was reasonable and practical.


In order to fulfil the audio mixing of the decoded MPEG-I Layer-II bitstreamsin real time in the digital audio workstation, an algorithm is proposed for fast real time mixing of MPEG-I Layer-II audio bitstreams after analyzing the kernel algorithm of the polyphase filters in MPEG I decoder. In this algorithm the comparably time-consuming calculation of sub-band signal synthesizing in decoding is done only once for multiple mixing and the speed of mixing is greatly accelerated. By experiments, the algorithm uses only a quarter of the real time when mixing 8 MPEG-I layer-II bitstreams by PIII 600 MHz PC and this completely satisfies the requirement of professional digital audio station.


An evaluation of the effects of El Nino (1997-98) on the recruitment of benthic invertebrates (abalone, spiny lobster, and kelp beds) was carried out in two reefs at Bahia Tortugas on the central Pacific coast of Baja California. Density changes of juvenile abalone (Haliotis fulgens and H. corrugata), kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera and Eisenia arborea), and puerulus settlement of spiny lobster (Panulirus interruptus), before and throughout El Nino, were used to measure the impact on the recruitment of benthic populations of the rocky sublittoral. El Nino had a different effect on each species. Kelp beds were eliminated at an early stage in fall 1997, but recovered partially one year later and fully by winter 1999. Density of one-year-old abalone was reduced drastically in fall 1997. It slowly recovered throughout 1998 and 1999. During the latter period, this age group displayed high variability in length, suggesting an indirect effect of El Nino on the food supply of juvenile abalone. Density of puerulus spiny lobster settlement was positively stimulated during El Nino matching, without any time lag, the increase in mean sea level and surface temperature. We conclude that benthic communities on this part of the coast show high resilience, and their populations are adapted to recovering their structure and normal community conditions one and a half to two years after the El Nino event.


In the last year, I have completed two very interesting projects. These involved holographic installation in underground facilities, where the holograms were illuminated and the images reconstructed by sunlight. The sunlight was collected on the roofs of the buildings and guided to the basement level through optical fiber.


Calotropis procera Aiton (Calotropis) is a wild-growing plant used for a variety of disease conditions such as leprosy, ulcers, tumor and healing of wounds. The present study was conceived to evaluate the toxicological effect of the latex following systemic use in SpragueDawley rats with a view to understanding its potential safety in treating wounds and preventing keloid formation in human. Haematological evaluation revealed a significant and progressive reduction of the packed cell volume (PCV) and red blood cell count at high doses of the latex. There was no significant effect on the differential count except for lymphocytes which showed significant reduction following increasing concentrations of the latex. Similarly, the latex exhibited no significant effect on the renal indices of the rats: uric acid, urea and creatinine levels. A significant (P<0.05) decrease in blood glucose was World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research SJIF Impact Factor 7.523 Volume 6, Issue 11, 42-55. Research Article ISSN 2277– 7105 Article Received on 26 July 2017, Revised on 16 August 2017, Accepted on 05 Sept. 2017 DOI: 10.20959/wjpr201711-9500 *Corresponding Author


A new in situ climatology of cirrus ice water content (IWC) is used, together with observed molar ratios of HNO3/H2O in cirrus ice particles, to estimate the range of HNO3 content in cirrus ice in the temperature interval 185–240 K. We find that nearly over the complete temperature range HNO3 percentages in ice between 0.01 and 100% are possible in cirrus clouds and that IWC is a major parameter determining the content of HNO3 in ice at given temperatures. Considering average conditions, the HNO3 content increases with decreasing temperature from 1% to about 10% in the range 240–200 K. For colder ice clouds, the average HNO3 content again decreases down to 6%. At higher temperatures, less efficient HNO3 uptake limits the HNO3 content in cirrus ice, while at low temperatures small IWCs permit only little HNO3 in ice, thus causing the convex‐shaped average HNO3 content curve. The highest HNO3 content is expected in tropical ice clouds with very large IWCs, especially at temperatures between 190 and 210 K. Thus, tropical cirrus clouds show the highest potential to vertically redistribute HNO3. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society


Author(s): Borba, John; Diaz, Claudia; Horowitz, Marcel; Iaccopucci, Anne; Klisch, Shannon; Lewis, Kendra; Soule, Katherine; Worker, Steven | Abstract: Horses and humans interact in many ways, from sports and recreation, to agriculture and therapy, in this project you can learn about horses through a wide variety of projects including breeding, drill, judging, and trail riding. •Appreciate riding as a recreation and promote love and humane treatment of animals •Learn horsemanship skills and understand breeding, training, and raising •Aquire safety skills to prevent injury to humans and animals. This sheet outlines activity ideas at beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels of skill; also gives suggestions on how to tie the activity to STEM, healthy living, citizenship, and leadership goals.


Starting salaries paid to the 1961 class of graduating chemists and chemical engineers rose 3% over 1960 levels. Ph.D.'s in both fields reported the biggest increases, between 5 and 7%. Industry continued to pay the highest starting salaries and to attract the greatest number of graduates. Masters and doctors in chemistry going into academic positions received increases averaging 15%. Geographically, no section of the country appears to pay appreciably higher or lower starting salaries than for the profession as a Whole. Continuing a trend reported each year for the past several years, starting salaries in the chemical profession again rose in 1961. According to a survey conducted this summer by the American Chemical Society, recent graduates in chemistry at all degree levels reported a net increase of 2.3%, and those in chemical engineering 3.2%. These rises are somewhat less than those for last year (C&EN, Oct. 31, 1960, page 106) ...


Sixteen out of 18 groups of black and white colobus monkeys, or guerezas (Colobus guereza), observed in the Kakamega Forest, Kenya, included more than one adult male. Each group overlapped in its home range with 4–7 other groups, and no group appeared to have exclusive access to any part of its home range. Groups were engaged in intergroup encounters one‐quarter of observation time. Encounters often occurred around preferred feeding sites as different groups were attracted to such sites in their overlapping home ranges. Wins and losses during encounters were not dependent on location and a null model suggested that groups were not increasing their encounter rate to defend boundaries, further demonstrating a lack of territoriality. Although guerezas have repeatedly been described as a territorial species living in one‐male groups, nonterritorial multimale groups are common in continuous forests. Territorial one‐male groups may be usual in narrow riparian forests where resources are limiting, groups are small, and defendability is high, but such organization cannot be regarded as typical of the species. Habitat affects group size, as well as the potential for territoriality, and group size determines the number of adult males per group; therefore, classifying groups as one‐male or multimale appears to be an artificial dichotomy. © 1996 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.


Thermophotovoltaics (TPV) is the term applied to the technique for energy conversion whereby the energy emitted by an incandescent source is converted to electrical energy by a photovoltaic cell. There are three approaches currently being investigated for practical devices. These are selective filtering, multi-bandgap conversion, and selective emission. The first two approaches rely on a blackbody-like radiator as the source for photovoltaic conversion. Only a fraction of this radiation is usable for photoconversion by the photocell and thus any excess energy used to generate radiation which is not photoconvertible, such as fuel in a combustion flame, is wasted. This is based on the principle that only a narrow band of radiation, which is centered near the bandgap of the photocell, is efficiently converted into usable electricity. The remaining radiation is wasted. Ideally, one would want a radiator which emits in a narrow band which is matched to the bandgap of the photocell which is being used. This is the principle behind selective emission. Selective emission can be obtained by thermally exciting certain rare earth oxides which emit in a single narrow band in the infrared. These rare earth oxides exhibit peak emittances of about 0.8 in the narrow band andmore » emittances approaching 0 elsewhere. The infrared region of the spectrum is where the bandgaps of common photocells occur including silicon and indium gallium arsenide. This paper will show both theoretically and experimentally that selective emission can reduce the energy requirements of the thermal source in a TPV system and hence increase the overall system efficiency.« less


The changes of soil nutrition in different cultivation mode were studied. The results showed that the soil alkalihydrolyzed N was positively related to the changes of organic matter content, and available N could reflect soil nitrogen supply lately, so increasing organic matter in soil is an important method to improve soil fertility. Fertilization is an important resource of available K in soil. Straw to field has a significant effect on available K in K deficiency soil. Long-term continuous cropping in vegetable cultivation will add to the burden of the soil, and be not beneficial to the sustainable use of vegetable field in suburban areas. The rice -vegetable cropping system is beneficial to lighten the accumulation of available P.


Abstract Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) has been well described in adults, but pediatric cases are yet under recognized. We describe two children with RCVS and review similar already published pediatric cases. The first patient was a 10-year-old girl who presented with severe headaches and seizures 3 days after blood transfusion. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed changes compatible with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Magnetic resonance angiogram showed diffuse vasoconstriction of multiple cerebral arteries. The second patient was a 9-year-old boy who presented with severe thunderclap headaches. Brain MRI showed isolated intraventricular hemorrhage. Computed tomography/MR angiogram and digital subtraction angiogram were normal. A week later, he developed focal neurological deficits. Repeated MR angiogram showed diffuse vasospasm of multiple intracranial arteries. Both children recovered completely. A clinico-radiological review of previously reported childhood RCVS is provided.


STUDENT PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS LEVELS DURING A CAREER EXPLORATION COURSE Roger H. Belisle Department of Counseling Psychology and Special Education Doctor of Philosophy A gap in the literature exists on the connection between an individual's career and noncareer domains. Even less research exists on the topic of career development and how it relates to an individual's mental health. Accordingly, this study sought to investigate the connection between career issues and mental health by exploring the psychological distress levels of students enrolled in a career exploration course. During the course, students completed a biweekly online survey, the Outcome Questionnaire (OQ-45). Results support the possible connection between career issues and mental health and also show that for certain populations, career guidance interventions may decrease an individual's psychological distress.


The flood and waterlogging disaster loss assessment is a very important component for the disaster relief work,which has important theoretical and practical significance for the research of disaster and its relief.According to the correlation analysis between the flood disaster loss and meteorological and hydrological elements,a correlation model between the area and property of flood disaster loss and historical meteorological and hydrologic factors was developed.The property loss rate and background data of permanent assets were used to evaluate the direct economic losses caused by flood disaster,which are useful for the pre-disaster preliminary assessment and post-disaster rapid assessment.In this paper,the flood of the middle reach of Huaihe River in Anhui Province in 2007was analyzed,which provided similar assessment results of flood disaster loss with those reported data in reality.Therefore,the evaluation method is applicable and reliable.


The diamagnetic susceptibilities of three binary systems have been studied using the Gouy method. Deviations of the observed diamagnetic susceptibility values from Wiedemann's additive law have been discussed in the light of the partial ionisation of acetic acid with the solvent bases.


Short-cycles in Tanner graphs have a direct impact on the accuracy and effectiveness of the belief propagation (BP) algorithm, as they diverge the BP algorithm by disrupting the independency of message transmission. In this paper, we present a Neural Network Empowered BP (NNE-BP) algorithm as an alternative to the conventional BP algorithm, which can approach the optimum form of BP in short-cycles. The earlier deep learning (DL) based decoder treated the entire decoding process as a classification issue, making it effective only in short block lengths and with limited generalization. In the proposed NNE-BP, we design two neural networks, namely the horizontal network and vertical network, to learn, respectively, the optimized horizontal and vertical processes for single nodes in the presence of cycles. These two networks operate in an iterative fashion, allowing them to approach a theoretical message propagation equation without assuming independent message transmission. Compared to the classification based DL decoder, the proposed network topology is no longer bundled with any specific Tanner graph, and the number of network parameters are greatly reduced. The obtained experimental results show that the proposed NNE-BP outperforms the conventional BP decoder, especially in the case of short-cycles.


The aim of sparse phase retrieval is to recover a <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$k$</tex-math></inline-formula>-sparse signal <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mathbf {x}_0\in \mathbb {C}^{d}$</tex-math></inline-formula> from quadratic measurements <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$|\langle \mathbf {a}_j,\mathbf {x}_0\rangle |^2$</tex-math></inline-formula> where <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">${\mathbf a}_j\in {\mathbb {C}}^d, j=1,\ldots,m$</tex-math></inline-formula>. Noting <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$|\langle \mathbf {a}_j,\mathbf {x}_0\rangle |^2={\rm Tr}(A_jX_0)$</tex-math></inline-formula> with <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$A_j={\mathbf a}_j{\mathbf a}_j^*\in {\mathbb {C}}^{d\times d}, X_0={\mathbf x}_0{\mathbf x}_0^*\in {\mathbb {C}}^{d\times d}$</tex-math></inline-formula>, one can recast sparse phase retrieval as a problem of recovering a rank-one sparse matrix from linear measurements. Yin and Xin introduced <italic>PhaseLiftOff</italic> which presents a proxy of rank-one condition via the difference of trace and Frobenius norm. By adding sparsity penalty to <italic>PhaseLiftOff</italic>, in this paper, we present a novel model to recover sparse signals from quadratic measurements. Theoretical analysis shows that the optimal solution to our model provides the stable recovery of <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mathbf {x}_0$</tex-math></inline-formula> under almost optimal sampling complexity <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$m=O(k\log (d/k))$</tex-math></inline-formula>. We use the difference of convex function algorithm (DCA) to solve PhaseLiftOff, showing DCA converges to a stationary point. Numerical experiments demonstrate that our algorithm outperforms other state-of-the-art algorithms used for solving sparse phase retrieval.


Compressive tests of cylindrical specimens of mangos, melons, papayas, pineapples and watermelons were performed using an Instron Universal Testing Machine. The compressive failure occurred in various patterns which were characteristic of the different types of fruits. The failure patterns themselves tended to change as ripeness progressed. The compression test was accompanied by weight losses due to liquid extraction. These losses could reach the order of 35–70% depending on the fruit and its maturity stage. For most fruits, as ripeness progressed, the shape of the force-deformation curve also changed showing smaller deformation prior to failure and the appearance of a distinct phase in which the liquid expression was probably the dominant factor. The apparent strength of the specimens, calculated on the basis of the original cross-sectional area, was a function of the specimen diameter. The latter, in the case of watermelons, could also affect the general shape of the force-deformation curve.


In this work, the development and research of the method and means of technical diagnostics of electronic equipment of the on-board monitoring, measuring and regulating temperature systems with thermocouple sensors according to fractional power spectra of signals were performed. The physical processes that cause typical malfunctions of low-frequency onboard electronic equipment with thermocouple sensors are investigated. Peculiarities of non-harmonic spectral analysis of signals and diagnostics of low-frequency electronic equipment of on-board systems for monitoring, measuring and regulating temperatures systems by fractional power spectra of signals are considered.


The historical materialism criticized the emphasis on respect for the aesthetic quality of the target of criticism from the provisions of nature,we should grasp the artistic characteristics of the world to evaluate the value of Song.Song is typically reflected in literature affective,image characteristics,but also demonstrated the new era of literary quality,the Song Dynasty are the most innovative and unique form of literature,making the development process of ancient Chinese literature to the important One aspect of an important literary value.It as a literary representative of the Song Dynasty is well deserved.


Introduces structure and characteristic of the wedge type broken belt for uphill belt conveyor,analyses its drawback,and the protector is improved up.A new protector with oscillating upper brake which can be opened outboard.If the belt conveyor is on normal running,the oscillating upper brakes will be opened outboard,paralleling with the belt.If the belt breaks,the upper brakes will oscillate inboard to the belt,and will take part in braking the broken belt.


SUMMARY

Seismic guided wave dispersion can be used to image fault-zone structure at seismogenic depth. A two-station differential group velocity technique previously used for surface waves was adapted to solve for local fault-zone structure between two stations. This method was extended to solve for fault-zone structure between two earthquakes using differential group arrival times at a single station. The method was tested with finite-difference synthetic data for an inhomogeneous fault, as well as with a pair of shallow earthquakes recorded in the San Andreas Fault Observatory at Depth (SAFOD) borehole station. Results from a pair of deep earthquakes recorded in the SAFOD borehole station indicate that the low-velocity waveguide of the San Andreas Fault extends to >10 km depth. The waveguide at 10–12 km depth is 120–190 m wide and the velocity contrast is >20 per cent, similar to the values in the shallow subsurface. Multiple earthquakes and receivers could be used to map fault zone structure at seismogenic depth as a function of depth and strike.


The coronavirus sickness (COVID-19) is a worldwide pandemic that was detected in December 2019 by a Chinese physician in Wuhan, Hubei Province, mainland China. There is presently no licensed human vaccine to combat it. When individuals are close together, COVID-19 spreads more fast. As a consequence, travel constraints are in place to minimize the disease from spreading, and regular Washing the hands is encouraged so that the infections that occur due to the virus. Other indications and symptoms include chest discomfort, sputum production, and a sore throat. COVID19 could lead to a very dangerous disease which is pneumonia which occurs due to the virus. When employing CT scans or Xrays to identify the symptoms that are occuring due to the cause of covid-19 in the last region of the lungs then the accuracy is better than when utilizing RT-PCR. But as there are very less radiologists as compared to the new residents or the people that have come and aslo there has been seen many re examinations occurring of these patients. To solve this kind of the issues or problems that is limiting the CT scans and the x-rays the speed of this procedure must be boosted. This may be done by adding artificial intelligence (AI) approaches into contemporary diagnostic systems. The main motive of the paper is to provide the best accuracy to detect the disease using CNN along with a comparison with the transfer learning approach.


During the past decade, nonequilibrium techniques have been developed for the growth of epitaxial semiconductors, insulators, and metals which have led to new classes of artificially structured materials. Structures can now be grown which present the materials scientist with systems that exhibit new properties and demonstrate new physical concepts. For example, quantum-well structures with molecular dimensions give rise to new phenomena resulting from quantum mechanical effects. Layered structures with periodicity of a few atomic layers result in coherent behavior for long-range interactions such as magnetism in metallic systems. Metastable structures can be generated which possess important properties not present in equilibrium systems. Studies of these materials are leading to significant advances in our basic understanding of the physics of materials as well as to important new technologies. Despite the rate of progress and the large number of laboratories throughout the world with active programs in various aspects of epitaxial growth, our current understanding of the processes which control growth at a fundamental, atomic level is remarkably primitive. Much of the work to date has been driven by the motivation to produce high quality materials for high performance electronic devices. As a result, most of the effort in epitaxial materials hasmore » concentrated on semiconductors, particularly GaAs and related compounds.« less


Generally MIMO uncorrelated channel can be obtained at the price of using high antenna spacing or precoding systems which are not only awkward to the requirement of the limited space platforms but also add to complexity of implementation. In this paper the multiple- input multiple - output millimeter wave channel is studied. We assume that the system is surrounded by the scattering environments. For an achievable significant low amount of correlation channel, in order to be closed to that of uncorrelated channel, the proposed system is shown to be mountable on small platforms such as the mobile handset. As application, the performance of the orthogonal space-time block codes (OSTBC) over the channel is simulated and shown closer to that of uncorrelated channel.


The article deals with the most significant cases of Russian-Slovak cultural and scholarly connections in the nineteenth century, starting from the first mentions of inclusion of Slavs into the programs of Decembrists to 1870s when Slovaks came to study at Russian universities. The researchers' attentions is concentrated mostly on the perception of Slovaks in Russia and their image in the Russian society. First, the researchers identified the basic stages in the development of Russian-Slovak contacts and the ways of collaboration of Russian and Slovak intellectuals. Then they analyzed the political situation that greatly influenced the intensity of the Russian-Slovak contacts in the various stages of the time span from the years of Alexander I rule to the last quarter of the nineteenth century. A prominent place in the article is dedicated to the role of M.F. Raevskii, archpriest of the Orthodox church of the embassy of the Russian empire in Vienna, adherent to the idea of Slavic mutuality. The first complete publication of the Slavic correspondents of M.F. Raevskii was issued in 2014 in Bratislava. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2015.v6n3s7p149


The articles of this special issue on "Translating African Thought and Literature" are exploring the long-term linguistic consequences of colonialism and appraising the sometime violent legacies thereof.


E-Shopping is a recent experience in the field of E-Business and is definitely going to be the future of shopping in the world. Now-a-days, shopping at the click of a mouse has gained much popularity. Due to fast-moving life and shortage of time, consumers are searching for their desired products in online shopping stores. Consumers are more connected than ever before and have more information and choices at their fingertips today. If e-marketers know and understand the factors affecting consumers' satisfaction, they can further develop their marketing strategies to attract and retain customers. The aim of the study is to measure the factors that influence the buyers' satisfaction while purchasing online. It emphasizes the importance of buyers' satisfaction and helps the e-marketers to understand their insight towards e-store shopping.


Like many others, I was somewhat dismayed upon learning of the American Academy of Pediatrics' decision not to endorse the WHO Code of Marketing Breastmilk Substitutes. After reading the commentaries by May,1 Barness,2 and the Ambulatory Pediatric Association Board of Directors,3 I found the matter no less muddled. As long as the can of worms is open, I feel that a few of the statements made deserve additional comment.
 As the issue was recently discussed at our hospital's Pediatric Department meeting, I would be interested in having May and Starfield elaborate on their apparently contradictory interpretations of the Montreal study on the effects of distribution of free formula samples.4


Hemorrhagic strokes are common and account for 20 to 30% of all strokes in India and the rest of Asia. Patients admitted with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) are usually sicker, and ICH is associated with worse outcomes (as compared with ischemic strokes). Hypertension is the commonest risk factor for spontaneous ICH, responsible for up to 80% of all cases of ICH, either alone or in combination with other etiological factors. Elevated blood pressure (BP) during the first few hours to days after ICH leads to worse outcomes (higher death and disability rates). This is because high BP is directly linked to hematoma expansion and increased mass effect. Therefore, rapid lowering of BP is recommended if systolic BP > 160 mm Hg. Intravenous labetalol and nicardipine are both equally safe and effective for this purpose. Survivors of ICH have a higher risk of developing recurrence of ICH both over the short term and over the long term. Aggressive BP lowering is recommended in ICH survivors postdischarge from the hospital. The target BP of <130/80 mm Hg should be maintained in them to reduce the risk of ICH recurrence.


Chipless radio frequency identification (RFID) is one of the major technology in real-time wireless applications. In this paper, an approach has been taken to generate a specific band for the communication of various wireless sensors. The proposed chipless RFID tag is designed for 3.5 GHz and 7.9 GHz frequency bands owing to obtain wireless communication in ultrawideband (UWB) frequency range. In this work, we focused to improve the magnitude of radar cross section (RCS) by using a modified Swastik-shaped geometry. The proposed tag has an overall dimension of 19× 16× 1.6mm2 and is found to be suitable for UWB applications.


The word e-learning is used synonymously with virtual knowledge, online education, computer-based training, web-based knowledge, and networked education. Whatever may be the explanation of e-learning, it is revamping the style traditional academia teaches and the learners grasp. E-Learning has made education easy for everyone including office-goers, housewives etc without compromising much. E-Learning is effective and powerful. It makes information easy to grasp and absorb. It imparts enhanced ability to learn and implement among the learners. This article is about the changes that are entering the education system today through information technology. In addition, the pros and cons of distance learning, which is widely used today, are extensively analyzed in this article.


Objective. Effective mass casualty triage requires rapid andaccurate decision making. First responders need to be trained, but opportunities to practice triage andreceive individualized feedback during traditional mass casualty (MC) exercises are uncommon. It was hypothesized that novice learners would improve in speed, accuracy, andself-efficacy after deliberate practice triaging multiple simulated casualties in a MC exercise using high-fidelity manikins. Methods. Learners initially developed baseline knowledge of MC triage by listening to four short podcasts andpassing a written examination. They then experienced three sequential MC scenarios (A, B, andC) consisting of five manikin simulations each, coupled with individual feedback after each scenario. Students served as their own controls. A triage score (TS) andintervention score (IS) were recorded. For the TS, one point was awarded for each correctly identified main problem, required intervention, andtriage category. For the IS, one point was awarded for each correctly applied intervention. Before-and-after surveys measured self-efficacy andreaction to the training. Results. Twenty-one medical students were enrolled and20 students passed the examination. The TS andIS improved significantly during scenario B (p < 0.001). Time to complete each scenario decreased significantly from scenario A (8 min 27 sec) to scenario B (6 min 19 sec) (p < 0.001), but not from scenario B to scenario C (5 min 40 sec). Self-efficacy improved significantly after scenario C for prioritizing treatment andresources, identifying high-risk casualties, andlearning to be an effective first responder. Conclusion. Novice learners demonstrated improved triage andintervention scores, speed, andself-efficacy during an iterative, multimanikin MC training experience


The articles in European Comic Art 13.1 all allude to the capacity of comics for demystification and disruption. This may take the form of a mistrust of canons; a retelling of the lives of painters that subtly, or less subtly, debunks the mythology of the great artist; an assault on the sensibilities of those who cling to a male-defined idealisation of the female body; a refusal of the illusion of depth in favour of a more complex mapping of connections across surfaces; or the subversive appropriation of a genre previously based on colonial assumptions.


The iron rust phases formed on Iow alloy steels containing different quantities of Cr element have been characterizedusing EPMA, Raman spectroscopy, TEM, optical microscopy etc. The ion selective properties of synthesized rust filmswith the same phase constituent as the atmospheric corrosion products were investigated using self-made apparatus.The results showed that corrosion loss of steels exposed in marine atmosphere decreased rapidly as the Cr contentof the steel was increased. Cr-containing steels were covered by a uniform compacted rust layer composed of fineparticles with an average diameter of several nanometers. Inner rust layer of Cr-containing steel (2 mass fraction)was composed of α-CrxFel-xOOH, with Cr content of about 5 mass fraction. Such rust layer showed cation selectiveproperty, and could depress the penetration of Cl- to contact substrate steel directly.


Most commonly, the patients clinically presented with healed ulceration (C5 = 51%), followed by pigmentation and eczema (C4a) constituting 24% cases. Active ulceration was seen in 16% of the cases, and lipodermatosclerosis and atrophie blanche were seen in 9% of the cases. Following is the distribution of cases with pigmentation according to the clinical classification. Majority of the cases fall under grade++ pigmentation (28 cases) followed by nine cases under grade + pigmentation and four cases each under grade +++ and grade ++++ pigmentation. Majority of the cases fall under C5 class of the clinical classification (23 cases) followed by 11 cases in C4a class. It was observed that presence of melanin deposition irrespective of the grade of pigmentation was distributed more toward the advanced clinical classification (C5 and C6) cases, and this difference in observation was found to be statistically significant. Biopsies were taken from the patient while undergoing surgery; two biopsies were taken from each patient, one from apparently normal skin and other from the site of pigmentation with or without lipodermatosclerosis. We have used hematoxylin and eosin staining with special stains for detection of melanin. All the H&E-stained slides of skin biopsy specimen were evaluated under the following findings for deposition of melanin in epidermis and/or dermis and erythrodiapedesis. All these changes in pigmented skin biopsy were compared with the normal skin biopsy and that of the control. Our study is in parallel to the study published by Caggiati et al. in 2008 where they found melanin as the main agent for pigmentation rather than hemosiderin, and their subsequent studies had similar findings. We once again thank Kurosh Parsi group to have such a deeper evaluation of our article, and we will appreciate any further criticism and appreciation of our paper.


The axial distribution of voltage induced near the inner wall of a 3.8‐cm‐diam tube confining an rf argon induction plasma at atmospheric pressure was measured at a flow rate of 115 cm3/sec with a water‐cooled ring probe. Also measured as functions of probe position were the excitation frequency, voltage, and current on the inductor coil. The plasma reduced the probe voltage to about 60% of its value in the absence of the plasma. After correction for the effects of cooling and displacement of the plasma by the probe, the total induced voltage around the circumference of the plasma at the midsection was found to be 64 V. The corresponding value for electric‐field intensity was 6 V/cm. This value falls between published values obtained by indirect methods and is in fair agreement with prediction on the basis of a one‐dimensional theory.


This course will examine the linkages between interest rates, money, output, and inflation in more detail than Mishkin's book. While you have taken intermediate macro, most of Mishkin's book is meant to be accessible to less prepared students. Interest rates interact with output and inflation. Our task to understand the overall macro effects of monetary policy. The class will proceed in two steps and examine Classical monetary theory first, then New-Keynesian theory. Most central bankers these days are New-Keynesians. However, Keynesian theory is more complicated and it provides new insights mainly about the short run and for economies with nominal frictions, so-called " sticky " prices and wages. Classical theory provides straightforward answers about the long run (once Keynesian frictions wear out) and for economies with sufficiently volatile prices and wages that nominal frictions are relatively unimportant (notably, high-inflation countries). Different instructors in Principles and Intermediate Macro place different emphasis on Classical versus Keynesian theories. Stephen Williamson's Macroeconomics text, which is widely used in Econ 101, covers classical theory. (If you still have the book, I recommend ch.10-11.) Abel-Bernanke-Croushore's Macroeconomics provides a more balanced coverage. (An older edition is on reserve; ch.7+9 recommended.) Mishkin covers Keynesian theory in chapters 20-23. This lecture note is intended to supplement Mishkin and to establish common ground for discussing macroeconomic questions. Suggestions: Study most whichever theory your previous instructors emphasized least. Try to reconcile any conflicts with what you have learned before (if any). Seemingly conflicting answers are usually due to differences in assumptions that can be clarified if you ask—don't hesitate to ask me.. Nominal variables – incomes, consumption, sales, wages, etc denominated in a currency – can always be interpreted as real variables multiplied by a general price level (e.g., the CPI or GDP-deflator). Two fundamental assumptions of Classical macro theory are (1) that equilibrium values of most real variables can be determined without knowing the price level or the inflation rate; and (2) that the equilibrium value of the price level and the inflation rate are determined primarily by the central bank's supply of money. Thus macro theory divides cleanly into real macro and monetary macro. They can be examined independently—which simplifies things. The notion that money has no real effects is known as monetary neutrality. Money is neutral in the classical model.


Voltage-induced dynamic switching in magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) is a writing technique for voltage-controlled magnetoresistive random access memory (VCMRAM), which is expected to be an ultimate non-volatile memory with ultra-low power consumption. In conventional dynamic switching, the width of sub-nanosecond write voltage pulses must be precisely controlled to achieve a sufficiently low write-error rate (WER). This very narrow tolerance of pulse width is the biggest technical difficulty in developing VCMRAM. Heavily damped precessional switching is a writing scheme for VCMRAM with a substantially high tolerance of pulse width although the minimum WER has been much higher than that of conventional dynamic switching with an optimum pulse width. In this study, we theoretically investigate the effect of MTJ shape and the direction of the applied magnetic field on the WER of heavily damped precessional switching. The results show that the WER in elliptical-cylinder MTJ can be several orders of magnitude smaller than that in usual circular-cylinder MTJ when the external magnetic field is applied parallel to the minor axis of the ellipse. The reduction in WER is due to the fact that the demagnetization field narrows the component of the magnetization distribution perpendicular to the plane direction immediately before the voltage is applied.


This paper presents improved and new methodologies for the calculation of critical eigenvalues in the small-signal stability analysis of large electric power systems. They augment the robustness and efficiency of existing methods and provide new alternatives. The procedures are implementations of Newton's method, inverse power and Rayleigh quotient iterations, equipped with implicit deflation, and restarted Arnoldi with a locking mechanism and either shift-invert or semi-complex Cayley preconditioning. The various algorithms are compared and evaluated regarding convergence, performance and applicability.


Secretory immunoglobulin A (s-IgA) is a major immunoglobulin in external body fluids of mammals and participates in an important protective function in the fluids and on mucosal surface. In the oral cavity, s-IgA is secreted from the salivary glands and may act as an inhibiter of the growth of microorganisms and as a preventer of the infection as well as peroxidase, lysozyme and lactoferrin. Recent reports1.2) defined the transport mechanism of s-IgA in exocrine glands. According to those studies, serum IgA is synthesized locally by plasma cells in the interstitial connective tissue of the salivary glands, and dimerized with J-chain in plasma cells before secretion. Secretory component (SC) is an additional important glycoprotein synthesized by the epithelial cells, and apparently functions as a glandular receptor for dimeric IgA. Immunohistochemical studies on localization of IgA and SC were made on the major salivary glands in human1-5) and animals6), but little work has been done so far for normal tissues and tumors of the human minor salivary glands, although just one report7) could be found in the literature. The purpose of the present study is to examine the localization of IgA and SC in normal tissues and benign tumors of the human minor salivary glands by using the peroxidase anti-peroxidase (PAP) method. Materials and Methods Materials: Thirty-one cases of benign tumors of the minor salivary glands were used as materials, which were dealt with our laboratory during the past twelve years. They were 30 cases of pleomorphic adenoma and 1 case of monomorphic adenoma. The age and sex distribution of these pleomorphic adenoma were reported previously8). The original sites of pleomorphic adenoma were as follows: 22 cases in palate, 4 cases in lip and 4 cases in cheek. One case of monomorphic adenoma was palatal origin. The normal minor salivary glands, included in the biopsy or operation materials in the cases of tumor or mucocele, were also studied. All of those specimens were prepared by a conventional method, namely they were fixed in 10% formalin and were embedded in paraffin. Immunohistochemical procedure: Paraffin section were cut at 4 ƒÊm at maximum surface of the specimens. The technique used for detection of IgA and SC was PAP method with PAP kit K 505 (DAKO, s-IgA: ƒ¿ chain and secretory component specific). Furthermore, IgA (Hoechist, ƒ¿ chain specific) and SC (DAKO) for primary antiserum were also used. After PAP method each specimen was visualized by GrahamKarnovsky solution and was counterstained by methylgreen solution. The control tests for specificity were performed by the exclusion of primary antiserum and by using normal rabbit serum or Tris' buffer solution for primary antiserum. The negative results were obtained.


The sticking coefficients of selenium and tellurium were measured as a function of temperature. Molecular beams of the chalcogen elements supplied from thermal effusion cells were directed onto a heated quartz crystal microbalance, and the mass gain rate was detected as a function of temperature. Both sticking coefficients were found to sharply drop within a narrow temperature range of 20 and 30 °C from above 0.8 down to about 0.2 at film surface temperatures around 35 and 115 °C for selenium and tellurium, respectively. While the sticking coefficient of tellurium reached zero at temperatures above 150 °C, the sticking coefficient of selenium remained about 0.2 up to a film surface temperature of 60 °C, suggesting that selenium was supplied in different chemical forms. The direct and quantitative determination of the sticking coefficients provides important insights into the kinetics of chalcogenide-based film growth and points toward the need of a precise sample temperature control.


The paper describes the principle and method that applying VB 6.0 realize control and monitor the 32CH 3KW all solid TV transmitter various technology method in the transmitter.


The next generation of high throughput data acquisition systems is capable of acquisition at rates far exceeding our ability to save data. To process data in real-time specialized computing systems are needed with incredibly high throughput so that data can be quickly assessed to determine whether it is sufficiently interesting for further processing. With a raw data rate exceeding 1 Petabit per second, particle detectors at the Large Hadron Collider at the Europe Center for Nuclear Research (CERN) contend with some of the largest data rates ever encountered. With planned upgrades in the near future, these rates will continue to grow, further complicating our ability to process data effectively to continue to understand the fundamental properties of the universe. In this talk, we present the current, FPGA-based, LHC data acquisition system, and we discuss the plenitude of data challenges that are currently being addressed. Furthermore, we discuss various aspects of the system, and we present deep learning base solutions that are quickly being adopted by the LHC. Furthermore, we discuss the lower throughput computationally complex systems and discuss how FPGAs can augment the system leading to enhanced physics performance. Throughout the talk, we discuss the scientific implications possible with an improved system. Finally, we discuss related problems in other scientific fields, including astrophysics and materials science. We present new challenges that, if solved, can open paths to new avenues of fundamental scientific research.


The present invention relates to a fuel injection device (1), having: an injection valve (9), one for the injection valve (9) conveyed in the conduit of the fuel under high pressure (5) during operation, a control of the injection valve and the said conduit (5) a control chamber a control valve (41) of pressure (43) is connected to the valve member of the control valve movable (51) by an actuator (31) (38) operated by a hydraulic coupling the hydraulic coupler has a coupler interacts with two of the coupler volume of the piston (39, 40), wherein the movable valve member seat (51) (53) having a net cross-sectional area f3 the fuel injection device further includes a means for the fuel under pressure through the guide slot of the piston (39, 40) is (65, 67) for coupling volume injection, wherein: the pistons (39, 40) parallel to one another provided insertable; a converter provided with a chamber (72) at the ends of the pistons (39, 40) toward the actuator (31); there is provided a filling chamber inside the outer piston (40) ( 71-2), the filling chamber and the conduit (5) is connected; one of the pistons in the piston (39 having a cross-sectional area f4) F5 through a cross-sectional area of the rod (61) is mechanically coupled with the actuator (31) having; the other piston (40) having a piston area f2 by a rod having a cross-sectional area than the operation f2 small (63) Control a valve (41); a direction consistent with the valve member (51) movable in the direction of closing movement of the fuel from the control chamber (43) flows, such that due to the (72) acting in the other converter piston chamber the pressure (40) so that the control valve is at least partially balanced fertility.


This paper presents the initial findings from six rounds of research conducted between 2012 and 2016 on livelihoods and social change in rural Myanmar, undertaken as part of the Qualitative Social and Economic Monitoring initiative. These data provide unique insights into the ways in which broad processes of democratization and globalization -- put into effect following Myanmar's historic reforms beginning in 2011 -- are experienced at the village level. The analysis focuses on three key aspects of the "social contract": local governance mechanisms, shifting expectations of the state, and changes in the types of networks connecting villagers to regional and global markets. Remarkable social progress has been made in Myanmar since 2012, yet there are no grounds for complacency. Managing ongoing transformations in these three domains, in ways perceived to be locally legitimate and effective, will be crucial if the initial gains are to be consolidated and expanded.


This paper introduces the concept of the 'sensitivity chart' as an applied tool to evaluate the effect of profile modifications on the load factor of gears with stochastic indexing errors and to find optimal solutions. The embedded ability to evaluate different solutions simultaneously also allows the analysis of the sensitivity of technical designs to variations in the manufacturing parameters, from which the term 'sensitivity chart' is derived. To build a sensitivity chart, the exact geometry of tooth meshing is incorporated into a dynamical non-linear model of the considered gear system, seamlessly embedding the effect of pitch errors, tooth separation, degree-of-freedom coupling, and profile modifications. Various possible combinations of error distributions and profile corrections are applied to the gear model, which is simulated dynamically to calculate the load factor. The sensitivity charts are compiled by post-processing and interpolation of this simulation data.


Psoriasis is a common chronic skin disease, afflicting approximately 2% of the U.S. population1. The condition is characterized by autoimmune dysregulation, and systemic inflammation2. As such, psoriasis can serve as a model for studies of mechanisms of chronic inflammation2.

Recently there has been considerable interest in whether systemic inflammation is a risk factor for VTE, as inflammation is associated with a procoagulant state3, 4. Most research exploring this relation has been observational, and has utilized blood markers of systemic inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and cytokines. Results have been mixed, but overall suggestive of a positive association between inflammatory markers and VTE4. There has also been active inquiry into whether medical conditions characterized by chronic systemic inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis5, 6, psoriasis6–8 and inflammatory bowel disease9–11, may be associated with elevated VTE risk. To date, studies of psoriasis and VTE include 2 case-reports8, a medical record-linkage study based on hospital admissions and deaths6, and a prospective cohort of the entire Danish population from 1997 through 20067.

We used data from the Iowa Women's Health Study (IWHS) to test the hypothesis that psoriasis is associated with elevated risk of incident VTE, after adjustment for several potentially confounding variables.


The purpose of this paper is to present an approach to successful KM implementation by understanding the dynamics among various knowledge management barriers (KMBs) that hinder the implement of KM in organisations. Using interpretive structural modeling (ISM), the research presents a hierarchy-based model and the mutual relationship among the KMBs. The research shows that there is a group of KMBs having high driving power and low dependence which require maximum attention and are of strategic importance. Another group consists of those KMBs which have high dependence and low driving power which necessitate the resultant actions. This categorisation provides a useful tool to top management to differentiate between independent and dependent KMBs and their mutual relationships which would help them to focus on those key KMBs that are most significant for effective KM implementation. Arrangement of KMBs in a hierarchy and the categorisation into driver and dependent categories is an exclusive effort in the area of KM implementation.


Kratzer semantics for modals and conditionals generates the prediction that sentences of the form if p, ought p are trivially true. As Frank and Zvolenszky show, for certain flavors of modality, like deontic modality, this prediction is false. I explain some conservative solutions to the problem, and then argue that they are inadequate to account for puzzle cases involving self-frustrating oughts. These cases illustrate a general problem: there are two forms of information-sensitivity in deontic modals. Even generalizations of Kratzer semantics that predict these two roles for information, e.g. Kolodny and MacFarlane, predict that they vary together. I propose a generalization of Kratzer semantics that allows the two roles for information to vary independently of each other.


The paper deals with an idea of a thermoelectric matrix which is capable of harvesting free available energy dissipated in a form of human heat. The main objective of the work was to provide a proof of concept that the human warmth converted into electrical energy can be used as a secondary power source supporting primary battery in a sensor bracelet. The scope of the article includes presentation of the thermoelectric matrix structure and its electrothermal model in a few configurations of mini-TEGs outputs connections. Then a set of results is presented showing coupled electrical and thermal experimental simulations of the harvesting matrix connected to an ultra-low voltage converter LTC3108. The obtained characteristics of the equivalent output Seebeck voltages and available electrical power in respect to the mini-TEGs connections configurations indicate the best scenario in terms of energy conversion efficiency.


Biocompatible Glassy Polymeric Carbon (GPC) is used for artificial heart valves and in other biomedical applications. Although it is ideally suited for implants in the blood stream, tissue that normally forms around the moving parts of a GPC heart valve sometimes loses adhesion and creates embolisms downstream. We have previously shown that oxygen ion implantation slightly enhances cell adhesion to GPC. Here we compare silver ion implantation and silver deposition, each of which strongly inhibits cell attachment on GPC. Inhibition of cell adhesion is the more desirable improvement to current GPC cardiac implants. In vitro biocompatibility tests have been carried out with model cell lines to demonstrate that traces of silver can favorably influence the surface of GPC for biomedical applications.


According to the factual problems in some intercity super-large bridge,the paper analyzes the possible reasons for unusual prestressed strand's tension and the extension value,points out the solutions,so as to provide the precautions measures and the solutions for similar problems in the construction.


This numerical work is associated with the investigation of the effect of turbulator arrangement (diverging and converging) on heat transfer enhancement in conical nozzle turbulators inserted circular tube. Three different pitch ratios (PR=2.5, 5 and 7.5) were considered in the numerical analyses, using air as test fluid. The numerical results of Nusselt number, friction factor and thermal performance factor were introduced for the range of Reynolds numbers of 6000-24000. The obtained results showed that smaller pitch ratios provided more heat transfer rate and pressure drop. As compared to converging nozzles, diverging nozzles generated more effective turbulance/reverse flow, and thus provided higher heat transfer and flow friction. Evidently, obtained results revealed that the usage of nozzle-turbulators as a turbulence/reverse flow generator has an important contribution on heat transfer improvement.


Cuttings were made from six‐year‐old seedlings of Picea abies L. (Karst.) that had been studied in the Stockholm phytotron. The seedlings belonged to four full‐sib families, one being of French origin, one of North‐Swedish origin and two being hybrids between parents of North‐Swedish and French origin. Nine clones from each family were included. After the rooting phase, the cuttings were exposed to the same cultivation regimes as the seedling ortets. Characteristics of growth rhythm, percentage free growth and leader length were recorded during the 2nd to the 5th growth period (GP). Plagiotropic growth habit was recorded in the 3rd to the 5th growth period, and, characteristics of the rooting phase were studied. A juvenile behaviour very similar to that characterizing growth periods 2–3 of the seedlings was observed for growth rhythm characteristics and for free growth capacity during GP2 of the cuttings. The absolute value of the differences between each observation of the seedling ortets in GP6 and the ...


If you were asked to list the most inspiring iconic and cultural landscape of Australia, what would you choose? According to a recent social science report from the CSIRO Land and Water Flagship, Measuring the human dimension of the Great Barrier Reef - Social and economic long term monitoring program, 70% of you would list the Great Barrier Reef as your most inspiring landscape in Australia.


To calculate the induced density one has to integrate along the orbit of the star. Since this is difficult to do exactly, epicyclic orbits and series expansions are used instead. This necessarily intro duces the problem of ordering the small parameters* involved and, after such an ordering has been adopted, the neglect of higher order terms. At the ILR such higher order terms include the azimuthal dependance of the potential and the derivatives of the wavenumber. It would be desi rable to know the errors thus introduced.


Oxidative coupling of methane is a low-cost alternative for ethylene production. However, its high exothermicity, complex reaction network, and low selectivity to C-2 products require more in-depth analysis for economically viable process implementation. Microkinetic modeling enables assessment of operating conditions and catalyst properties on the overall performance via elementary gas-phase and catalytic reactions. The know-how to reproduce and interpret experimental kinetic data, especially the role of highly reactive intermediate species, is crucial for correct reaction network determination. Once the catalyst descriptors, physical catalyst properties, and operating conditions are determined and optimized, next catalyst generations can be developed tailored to the process implementation.


This article deals with the history and word formation of the Icelandic word for 'police', i.e. lögregla. The word constitutes an interesting case of word formation in that said lexeme is a dvandva compound whose creation is related to the expression að halda uppi lögum og reglu 'to maintain law and order'. Moreover, it is argued that the word has arisen in the wake of the Icelandic purist movement in the first half of the 19th century, and that its creator is Konráð Gíslason, who was at the time a member of the Icelandic Literary Society (Hið íslenzka bókmenntafélag) and editor of the journal Fjölnir. According to the sources, the word, lögregla, cannot have been formed as an independent lexical item. In fact, the word appears first in a compound with maður'man', meaning 'policeman' or, more precisely, 'a man who is in charge of maintaining law and order'. It is argued that lögregla has in fact been created in order to gradually substitute the Danish loanword pólití, first in compounds such as pólitímaður and pólitíþjónn 'policeman', and then as a single lexeme. The Danish loanword pólití had a twofold meaning: 'policeman' and 'police'. Moreover, it is argued that lögregla, as an unbound lexeme, was initially a shortened form for lögreglumaður, and later assumed the general meaning 'police force' by means of synecdoche (pars pro toto).


Digital watermarking of multimedia contents has become a very active research area over the last several years. In this work, we propose an audio watermarking signal processing technique to provide a quality assessment of the received audio signal after a coding/transmission process. Specifically, a fragile watermark is hidden in MP3-like host data audio transport stream (MPEG-1 layer III) using a spread-spectrum approach. At the receiving side, the watermark is extracted and compared to its original counterpart. Since the alterations endured by the watermark are likely to be suffered by the MP3-file, as they follow the same communication link (including coder and transport connection), the watermark's degradation can be used to estimate the overall alterations endured by the entire MP3-data. The Quality of Service assessment is based on the evaluation of the mean-square-error between the estimated and the actual watermark. The proposed technique has been designed for application to mobile multimedia communication systems. The results obtained through our simulation trials confirm the validity of such approach.


Th17 cells and Th1 cells coordinate to play a critical role in the formation of inflammatory bowel diseases. To examine how Th17 and Th1 cells are regulated at inflammatory sites, we used Th1‐dominant CD4+CD45RBhigh T cell‐transferred RAG‐2−/− and Th1/Th17‐mixed IL‐10−/− mice. Interestingly, not only did colitic RAG‐2−/− mice that were parabiosed with WT mice show significant amelioration of colitis, but amelioration of disease was also observed in those parabiosed with colitic IL‐10−/− mice. To assess the interference between Th1 and Th17 colitogenic T cells, we co‐transferred colitogenic CD4+ T cells from the lamina propria (LP) of CD4+CD45RBhigh T cell‐transferred RAG‐2−/− mice and IL‐10−/− mice into RAG‐2−/− mice. Surprisingly, the co‐transferred RAG‐2−/− mice showed a vast cellular infiltration of LP CD4+ T cells similar to that seen in RAG‐2−/− mice re‐transferred with the cells from colitic RAG‐2−/− mice alone, but the co‐transferred RAG‐2−/− mice did not have the wasting symptoms, which are also absent in RAG‐2−/− mice transferred with cells from colitic IL‐10−/− mice alone. Furthermore, the percentages of Th1 and Th17 cells originating from IL‐10−/− mice and those of Th1 cells originating from colitic RAG‐2−/− mice were all significantly decreased in the co‐transferred mice as compared with the singly‐transferred paired RAG‐2−/− mice, suggesting that Th1 and Th17 cells are in competition, and that their orchestration results in a merged clinical phenotype of the two types of murine colitis.


This study addresses the interesting and important topic of methane oxidation by chlorine and the uncertainty it introduces in studies of global methane, in particular those that make use of d13C. The main conclusion of manuscript, which reads very well and is nicely concise and to the point, is that the d13C signature of atmospheric methane is sensitive to the treatment of Cl. To be honest, I was a bit disappointed by this – because in my perception that was quite clear already, and therefore doesn't bring much new. There are inherent limitations in doing forward simulations, but nevertheless. Having gone through the effort of fine-tuning model runs to be able to make realistic and meaningful comparisons with measurements, in my opinion some more in-depth analysis of the uncertainties concerning Cl should have been made to reach the level of impact of