This article describes the implementation of advanced technology for applications in improving safety at roadway construction sites as advised by the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) and the Traffic Safety Industry Division (TSID). Of this advanced technology, cameras, sensors, input devices, automated data processing, and dynamic message signs (DMS) as are found in intelligent transportation systems (ITS) applications in workzones. Some examples provided include retroreflectivity, automating roadside dynamic message signs (DMS), collision warning for areas with roadside pedestrian workers, trailer-mounted attenuators, and the use of galvanized steel for barriers in lieu of traditional portable concrete barriers (PCB). Also described are a new system for curb/channelizing system and new types of high-visibility clothing. Recent studies, it is noted, have shown that such technologies exhibit an observed seventy percent reduction in driver speed. It is also explained that such technologies divert up to fifty percent of traffic that would otherwise travel through the workzone in question.


LEO is the acronym for the Lyons Electronic Office, a business-oriented computer system created by J. Lyons & Co. Ltd. Founded in 1887, the company's teashops had become a British institution. It was a family owned and run organization in the catering, tea-and-cake shop, bakery, ice-cream and restaurant businesses. As such it was an unlikely enterprise to undertake such a far-reaching innovation. The company was better known for its Red and Green Label tea, foil-wrapped Kup Kakes, Lyons Maid ice cream and, of course, its exceedingly popular "nippies," those speedy, efficient waitresses adorned in black blouses and starched white aprons who provided stellar service in its over 250 teashops. Lyons' restaurants set standards of "service to customers" and "sumptuousness of surroundings that astonished and delighted


For the ISBI HARDI reconstruction challenge 2013, we developed a local estimation method based on Multi-Tensor (MT) fitting with the Particle Swarm Optimization technique (PSO). We apply this reconstruction to the DTI and HARDI data categories.


A simple approach to synthesizing a proportional and derivative state feedback gain for assigning poles to infinity is developed. We also apply the synthesized gain to determine a doubly coprime matrix fraction description (MFD) of a state-space system and solve related problems. It is interesting to note that the MFD and the solutions to the related problems could be obtained in an explicit formula by using the synthesized gain.


The origin of culture lies in human beings' creative activities, including material production, multiplication of species and symbolic activities (spiritual production), which bring to the unity and diversity in the course of cultural change. The features of multiple time space superimposition. The formation of new culture is the superimposition, reaching through selection and re interpretting traditional culture and foreign culture. Therefore, there is almost no globalization and localization in a pure sense. The culture change of the world in the future can be described ad "the globalization of economic and technical development, the localization of social cultural change." Here, the opposite view between globalization and localization receives genetic clearing up.


some interesting applications: "demandrevealing" mechanisms and the tacit commitments of economic analysis (chap. 6), voting behavior (chap. 7), the theories of Anthony Downs and Mancur Olson (chap. 8), and other topics (chap. 9). Certain technical matters are discussed in appendixes. Margolis notes in passing analogies between his account and those of Freud (pp. x, 54-55) and Plato (p. 44; the reference here should be to Plato's tripartite analysis of the individual). The move these theorists make is the same Margolis suggests: "We observe that a certain function is performed . . . and so we postulate the existence of a mechanism that does this job" (p. 55). However, once we have postulated a set of Smiths "inside" Smith, the problem becomes one of giving an account of Smith's agency. In Margolis's account, we explain Smith's action, for example, voting, by referring to Gand S-Smith and to some allocation rule. But does this explain Smith's action? Where we used to have an agent, we now have a society (G-Smith, S-Smith). It won't help to postulate a third entity to act as a Samuelsonian impartial referee, even if such a U-Smith is deemed "metaphorical" (p. 53), for tZ-Smith is not Smith. It no longer is clear whose acts we explain when we refer to this "inside Smith" society. The theory may be able to overcome this philosophical difficulty. In any case, it merits careful and serious consideration. It promises to resolve certain difficulties with the "conventional" model of individual choice. The discussion of these problems and analyses of the assumptions of conventional analysis alone make the book worth reading. It should be of interest to social scientists working in public choice and related fields, to economists inclined to examining assumptions, and to normative theorists.


Objective To evaluate whether early and acquired daily fluid overload (FO), as well as fluctuations in fluid accumulation, were associated with adverse outcomes in critically ill children with severe sepsis. Methods This study enrolled 202 children in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with severe sepsis. Early fluid overload was defined as ≥5% fluid accumulation occurring in the first 24 hours of PICU admission. The maximum daily fluid accumulation ≥5% occurring during the next 6 days in patients with at least 48 hours of PICU stay was defined as PICU-acquired daily fluid overload. The fluctuation in fluid accumulation was calculated as the difference between the maximum and the minimum daily fluid accumulation obtained during the first 7 days after admission. Results Of the 202 patients, 61 (30.2%) died during PICU stay. Among all patients, 41 (20.3%) experienced early fluid overload, including 9 with a FO ≥10%. Among patients with at least 48 hours of PICU stay (n = 154), 36 (23.4%) developed PICU-acquired daily fluid overload, including 2 with a FO ≥10%. Both early fluid overload (AOR = 1.20; 95% CI 1.08–1.33; P = 0.001; n = 202) and PICU-acquired daily fluid overload (AOR = 5.47 per log increase; 95% CI 1.15–25.96; P = 0.032; n = 154) were independent risk factors associated with mortality after adjusting for age, illness severity, etc. However, fluctuations in fluid accumulation were not associated with mortality after adjustment. Length of PICU stay increased with greater fluctuations in fluid accumulation in all patients with at least 48 hours of PICU stay (FO <5%, 5%-10% vs. ≥10%: 4 [3–8], 7 [4–11] vs. 10 [6–16] days; P <0.001; n = 154) and in survivors (4 [3–8], 7 [5–11] vs. 10 [5–15] days; P <0.001; n = 121). Early fluid overload achieved an area under-the-receiver-operating-characteristic curve of 0.74 (95% CI 0.65–0.82; P <0.001; n = 202) for predicting mortality in patients with severe sepsis, with a sensitivity of 67.2% and a specificity of 80.1% at the optimal cut-off value of 2.65%. Conclusions Both early and acquired daily fluid overload were independently associated with PICU mortality in children with severe sepsis.


Human immunodeficiency viruses causes HIV infection in humans belongs to two species of Lentivirus. It damages the cells of immune system which leads to weak immune system and the ability to fight from infections and diseases. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence rate of HIV infection among pregnant women of different age groups attending Ajiko medical clinic, Damaturu, Nigeria. The prevalence rate was maximum (12.5%) in 36-45 age group and minimum (5%) in 26-35 age group but their was no HIV infection in 15-25 age group. The overall prevalence rate among pregnant women was 4%. General knowledge , training and campaigns of HIV prevention need to be tailored towards older women of age group 36-45 because of high prevalence rate.


The aims of this study were: (1) to examine the influence of game location and team quality on performance indicators in elite handball and (2) to analyze the home advantage effect in different game contexts according to the ability of both teams (strong, intermediate and/or weak). The sample included all 240 matches from the Spanish Professional Handball League (ASOBAL League) during the 2012/13 season. The home advantage was 63.10%, but this effect depends on the particular context of the game. Results identified those critical game-related statistics that are affected by playing at home or away (6m Goal Effectiveness, 9m Goal Effectiveness, Fast Break Goals, Field Total Shots, Steals, 6m Goalkeeper Effectiveness, 9m Goalkeeper Effectiveness and Total Goalkeeper Effectiveness, p<0.01 and Turnovers, p<0.05) and how the value of these variables depends on the particular context of the game. These findings can contribute to a better understanding of the situational variables determinants of elite handball performances, helping the coaches to prepare the players accordingly.


Continuously tunable optical true time-delay (TTD) modules based on dispersion enhanced photonic crystal fibers (DEPCFs) are demonstrated to provide continuous microwave squint-free beam scanning for an X-band (8-12GHz) phased array antenna (PAA) system. The dispersion of the fabricated photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) is as high as –600 ps/nm·km at 1550 nm. By employing PCFs to increase the dispersion, the TTD module size can be proportionally reduced. The time delay is continuously tunable from -31 picosecond to 31 picosecond between adjacent delay lines by tuning the laser wavelength continuously from 1528 nm to 1560 nm. The far field radiation patterns of a 1×4 subarray were measured from –45 o to 45 o scanning angles. Squint-free operation is experimentally confirmed. Wavelength conversion is also demonstrated to confirm that time delay information can successfully transferred from one wavelength to the other without being changed, which is suitable to be implemented in 2-D phased array antenna systems. The true-time delay formation idea presented here is suitable for not only X-band, but also the other higher microwave frequencies, such as K-band.


The development of the audit services market is an indicator of the development of the economy of any country. Since, on the one hand, audit firms as economic agents conduct their business and various changes in such an environment appropriately affect the financial performance of such firms. On the other hand, audit firms express their opinion on the financial statements of various audited enterprises and the types of such opinions can reveal a picture of the state and disclosure of financial information of enterprises. It should be noted that in the Republic of Moldova, the audit market has both common features related to the world market of audit services, and there are national peculiarities. Conducting a study of the audit services market, the author analyzed various indicators of audit firms of the Republic of Moldova, both financial and non-financial, as a result of which conclusions were drawn about the peculiarities of the development of the audit services market in the Republic of Moldova аnd the prospects for the development of this market in the future.


Every day our employees make a difference. Discover how with these first-hand insights and experiences – and explore the world of Siemens.


In this work DIMRO, an efficient algorithm to build source specific multicast trees, is presented. DIMRO aims at achieving a high traffic balance in the network in order to avoid bandwidth bottlenecks and consequent network partitions, one of the main causes for low network performance. To do so, it computes multicast trees by dynamically selecting the least loaded available paths, obtaining an optimal distribution of network resources. Strictly integrated with the DiffServ Quality of Service (QoS) approach, the proposed multirate native multicast algorithm maps the QoS service requested by receivers into the proper DiffServ class, so as to respect the expected QoS requirements. The results are a better leverage of the network bandwidth resources, an improved QoS perceived by multicast group members, and time and resource saving due to its low computational complexity, as shown through extensive C++ based simulation campaign.


Water electrolysis is a sustainable and clean method to produce hydrogen fuel via hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Using effective and low-cost electrocatalysts for HER to substitute expensive noble metals is...


Abstract This paper's purpose is to share theoretical and practical guidance with public administration scholars, teachers, and practitioners interested in fostering empathy and compassion in the public arena. This paper proposes that Jane Addams's interchangeable concepts of sympathetic understanding and affectionate interpretation, along with her care-centered approach to administration, offer a fruitful place to begin this work. It is this paper's contention that Addams's theory and practice of empathy provide significant insight into the task of constructing a more relational public administration. This paper will first travel back to Addams's Chicago to examine her ideas on empathy and how they came to inform her care-centered, relational approach to leading and administering, and then we will make the return trip to the present to argue for a care-centered relational public administration that embraces others with "affectionate interpretation."


The present work deals with the minerogenesis of a brecciated vein-like ore-body included in an acid porphyry rock, which has been mineralized with sphalerite and tetrahedrite. Moreover, few plrite, galena and copper sulfides are present in the ore-body. The life of the little mining industry which works on the vein depends on small quatities of gold and silver. The former is very finely disseminated in the quartz; the latter is chiefly brought by the tetrahedrite. Some uranium is also present as finde dissemination in the quartz. The brecciation of the vein is posterior to the mineralization. which should have been nearly massive. The deposit is of subvolcanic type.


Mediterranean water lenses (Meddies), as reported by Armi [L. Armi and W. Zenk, J. Phys. Oceanogr. 14, 1560–1576 (1984)], are small warm‐core eddies with a large width (100 km) to thickness (0.9 km) ratio. Centered at a depth of approximately 1000 m, they were observed in the Canary Basin of the North Atlantic Ocean. These are unlike many warm‐core eddies that extend to or near the surface [P. A. Nysen, P. Scully‐Power, and D. G. Browning, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 63, 1381–1388 (1978)], and hence may cause unique propagation anomalies for certain source–receiver configurations. A set of reported oceanographic specifications of a Meddy was converted to sound‐speed profiles which were merged with historical data below a depth of 2000 m. Acoustic modeling runs at 200 Hz were made across the Meddy using the IFD/PE model. The results were compared to normal propagation predictions for the area. The characteristic shift of the convergence zones is observed, but as might be expected the impact is relatively small for...


What are the effects of trade agreements with labor provisions on trade? This question has increasingly gained traction due to the growing importance of trade agreements and the proliferation of specific clauses related to labor rights and conditions included in such agreements. So far, the literature has focused on analyzing these effects at an aggregate level, with mixed results. In this paper, we capture heterogeneous effects of trade agreements with labour provisions separating exports by the factor intensity of their production process (labor-intensive vs. non-labor-intensive). Embedding institutional comparative advantage within a gravity framework, we show that, overall, the effects of trade agreements with labor provisions are no different from those of the universe of trade agreements. However, by affecting their comparative advantage, we find that agreements including labor provisions tend to reduce labor-intensive exports from emerging and developing to advanced economies ("South-to-North" exports).


Evaluators have written about the need to consider context in conducting evaluations, but most such admonitions are broad. Context is not developed fully. This chapter reviews the evaluation literature on context and discusses the two areas in which context has been more carefully considered by evaluators: the culture of program participants when their culture is different from the predominant one and the cultural norms of program participants in countries outside the West. We have learned much about how the culture of participants or communities can affect evaluation and should continue our learning there. Evaluators also need to expand their consideration of context to consider the program itself and its setting and the political norms of audiences, decision makers, and other stakeholders of the program. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.


: One of the most prevalent cancers, cervical cancer is also the leading cause of mortality for women in underdeveloped nations. A fundamental test for finding infections and precancerous diseases is the Papanicolaou smear. This study aims to comprehend the function of cervical screening in detecting premalignant, malignant, and non-neoplastic lesions as well as the prevalence of different lesions in women who received a traditional pap smear technique. We screened women in the age group of 15-70 years who attended the Outpatient department of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department of AIIMS, Kalyani. All women who gave consent for screening by Pap smear test were included. Of 2133 cases, most of the cases were benign comprising of Negative for Intraepithelial Lesion or malignancy (NILM) of about 1989 (93.24%) cases, 705 (33.05%) inflammatory. Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance in 44 cases (2.06%), Atypical squamous cells cannot exclude HSIL in 3 (0.14%), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) in 11 (0.52%), high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) in 5 (0.23%) women and Atypical glandular cell in 7 (0.33%). Out of 202 asymptomatic women (9.47%), 12 cases (0.56%) showed epithelial cell abnormality (8 ASCUS, 2 LSIL, 1 ASCH, 1HSIL) (Odds ratio=0.5056, Significance level, P=0.0362). Conventional Pap smear test is a very easy and cheap diagnostic tool to detect premalignant, malignant, and non-neoplastic lesions and the prevalence of various lesions.  As per the American Cancer Society (ACS), a pap smear should start from 25 years to be done till 65 years (repeated after every 3 years).


For the problem that communication network for power supply system of underground cannot meet real-time performance and reliability requirements of data transmission,and hardly achieves fast action and selectivity of protection simultaneously,the paper proposed a zone interlocking protection scheme based on switched Ethernet,and used OPNET network simulation software to study real-time performance of the switched Ethernet.The scheme adopts switched Ethernet of tree structure,and composes regional interlock system by adding smart interlock devices with Ethernet communication interface to integrated protection devices.The simulation results show that the maximum delay of overall network is less than 0.65 ms,the maximum end-to-end delay is less than 1 ms,and overall data transceiver flow is relatively smooth in the extreme case of 64 network nodes sending or receiving data at the same time,which illustrate that switched Ethernet has high stability and reliability to meet real-time requirements of interlock protection system in the region and prevent override trip accident.


A two-year study was conducted in 2002-2003 (season one) and 2003-2004 (season two)
at a seepage irrigated vegetable farm in south Florida to investigate the effect of soil organic
amendment (composted yard waste) on movement of water in a sandy soil. Season one result
showed that for the same water table depth, soil moisture content in the compost field was higher
than the noncompost field in the root zone (top 20 cm). The increased soil moisture was attributed to
the increased upflux due to increased capillary rise. Increased capillary rise was a result of increased
organic matter content of the soil from compost application. After a rainfall event, soil moisture at 10
cm depth in the compost field responded rapidly, suggesting a higher extent of capillary fringe in the
compost field compared to the noncompost field, which did not show the similar response. Another
addition of compost further enhanced the soil moisture effect in season two. Season two result
showed a higher difference between compost and noncompost soil moisture from the previous
season. Soil moisture and water table data from the compost field clearly showed that the addition of
compost can provide the same soil moisture from a lower water table compared with the noncompost
field. A lower water table depth in the compost field can result in higher retention of rainfall in the soil
compared to the noncompost field, which in turn can reduce runoff, deep percolation, and seepage losses and achieve water conservation. Compost application increased the amount of N and P in the
soil. Leaching of P to the groundwater was higher in noncompost field compared with the compost
field. Statistically, no difference in groundwater N concentration was observed between compost and
noncompost field. Results from this study indicate that water and P retention in the soil increased
due to the application of compost. The compost application did not have any negative impact on
water quality compared with the noncompost condition.


Introduction The use of personalised care planning has been effective at improving health outcomes for people with long-term health conditions. Methods We analysed data in relation to changes in BMI/HbA1c. The sample was made up of (n = 36) participants randomised to either the active intervention group (App+usual care) or the control group (usual care). Results: The average HbA1c percentage change for the treatment group was 9.5%, but just −2% for the control (usual care) group (P = 0.015 for the difference). The average percentage change in BMI for the treatment group was −0.4%, but 0.1% for the control group (P = 0.03 for the difference). Conclusion These preliminary findings point to how the provision of personalised plans of care, support and education linked to a mobile app, can result in HbA1c and BMI reduction over a 6-month period. While the results are preliminary, they portend the potential for digital plans of care to enhance T2DM management.


The main purpose of this paper was to examine and identify the problems and prospects of teaching & learning Physics in Senior Secondary Schools in Sokoto Metropolis in Nigeria. A total sample for the study was 91 distributed to 41 teachers and 50 students. Survey research design was established to collect the necessary information. Descriptive statistics was used to generate frequencies & percentages. The major conclusions drawn from this paper were survey results regarding performance of students in Physics subject showed that 40 (80%) of the respondents performed above average. While 6 (12%) and 4 (8%) performed above average and below average respectively. Perception of teachers regarding regularity in attending Physics class have shown that 40 (97%) of the respondents are regular while only 1 (2.4%) are not regular. This paper recommended some measures as a positive step towards addressing various problems so as to improve teaching and learning of Physics in Sokoto State of Nigeria.


The algorithm for long baseline(LBL) positioning system is mainly based on the geometry theory.The commonly used method is directly to solve equations based on geometry principle,so as to obtain the approximate so-lution of the target location.Through geometric analysis of the long baseline positioning system,the work on choosing different geometric intersection as the target positions,comparing the target positioning accuracy of the approximate solution and finding out the optimal solution is done,and meanwhile,an iteration algorithm of revising the sound ve-locity for long baseline positioning system is proposed in this paper.This revised algorithm not only improves the posi-tioning accuracy of the target point array for synchronous work,but also lowers the computational complexity,which makes it easy to use.At last,the algorithm is proved to be effective through simulation analysis.


The effect of the current pulse bias on the electrical characteristics and surface morphology of YBCO films during the time 70 to 300 h at T = 78 K has been investigated. The YBCO films were deposited onto an Al 2 O 3 (r-cut) substrate with CeO 2 buffer layer in situ by magnetron sputtering. Two types of experimental conditions have been used: the film under test was periodically switched to the resistive state by a low-frequency pulsed current; the film under test was in the superconducting state under a pulsed current with magnitude less than the critical one. Scanning electron microscopy has been used to characterize the surface morphology of the films. In the resistive state the surface morphology has been changed due to the formation of voids and hillocks. A few samples failed owing to discontinuities originated under the current. In the superconducting state damage of the samples was also observed. No change in the electrical characteristics of the survived samples was observed under both types of experimental conditions.


The use of research evidence to change clinical practice remains a significant challenge. Quality improvement (QI) offers a methodological approach to support this 'knowledge to practice' process. However, most research on QI focuses on the use of knowledge and not its creation to improve practice. This research aimed to address this gap through an exploration of the social process of co-creating knowledge within a QI project. The case study aimed to improve the physical health of people with serious mental illness through the introduction of a physical health 'pathway'. The QI project used participatory approaches to introduce new evidence-based clinical practices, initially on a single ward, and then scaled-up across five additional wards within an acute mental health unit in the National Health Service (NHS) in England. This four-year study used ethnographically-informed qualitative participatory approaches where the researcher was part of the QI project. Data were generated through participant observations, interviews and documentary analysis. The analysis included generating a narrative of the project, and the use of Knowledge Mobilisation and Implementation Science frameworks. This research offers a window on the social construction of a QI project. Improvement is a socio-technical process that relies on social practices to generate the work required to support the 'knowledge to practice' process. QI methods draw on the tacit knowledge and experiences of stakeholders which is codified in outputs from workshops, which in turn can be used in the co-design of interventions. This co-constitutive process of simultaneous knowledge 'use' and 'creation' contributes to the co-creation of collective understandings and meanings, which compose the social practices of QI. However, issues of responsibility and accountability pose a significant challenge, and a careful balance needs to be found between the use of the data for managing performance and supporting staff to reflect on their practice.


This article talks about the verbal phrase of"Give+NP+V1NP+V2(N)".It applies syntax and semantics to explain this special verbal phrase.It proposes a new point of "all-embracing phrase".


By financialization we mean basically the increased reliance on the finance market and finance capital to secure economic growth in the contemporary economy (Van der Zwan, 2014; Palley, 2013; Krippner, 2005). This shift in competitive capitalism from manufacturing and distribution of physical commodities as being the principal economic activity, to an economy essentially structured on the basis of abstract principles and the accumulation of wealth on the basis of nontangible assets represents a wideranging shift change now being subject to detailed scholarly attention. Rather than starting with an analysis of finance industry statistics, clearly demonstrating the substantial growth of economic value generated in financial services (for example, Crotty, 2008), we can turn an eye to institutional changes. If the postWorld War II era until the decline of the Bretton Woods system in the early 1970s (the Nixon Administration dropped out of the system in 1971) has been characterized as what Peter Drucker (1946) once spoke of as the "society of organizations" and Alfred Chandler (1984, 1977) refers to as "managerial capitalism," the era after 1979 when Margret Thatcher was elected Prime Minister in the UK and embarked on a radical political change program, is perhaps better described as what Gerald Davis (2010) speaks of as "the ownership society" (a term widely used by the George W. Bush Administration, 2001–2009; Harrington, 2008) and what Michael Useem (1996) calls "investor capitalism." Since the early 1970s, competitive capitalism has undergone a seismic shift in how economic value is accumulated and how it is distributed and shared (Tabb, 2012). For instance, in the US in 1950 the ten largest employers hired 5 percent of the American workforce, but in 2010 that figure was 2.8 percent (Davis, 2010: 333), indicating the decline in large and stable employing firms. In 1950, eight of the top ten employers were manufacturing firms, while in 2009


A method for forming a film of material using chemical vapor deposition. The method includes providing a substrate comprising a pattern of at least one metallic nanostructure, which is made of a selected material. The method includes determining a plasmon resonant frequency of the selected material of the nanostructure and exciting a portion of the selected material using an electromagnetic source having a predetermined frequency at the plasmon resonant frequency to cause an increase in thermal energy of the selected material. The method includes applying one or more chemical precursors overlying the substrate including the selected material excited at the plasmon resonant frequency and causing selective deposition of a film overlying at least the portion of the selected material.


This research is based upon work supported by the United States Agency for International Development, as part of the Feed the Future Initiative, under the CGIAR Fund, award number BFS-G-11-00002, and the predecessor fund the Food Security and Crisis Mitigation II grant, award number EEM-G-00-04-00013 Abstract The study was carried out to better understand the determinants of the decision to participate in value addition among the beneficiary and non-beneficiary groups of Deepening Enterprise Development (DED) in Ntchisi District, Malawi. Data was collected from 100 farmer groups. Results indicated that location, project participation, type of farming enterprise, number of enterprises and gender composition significantly influenced the farmer' decision to engage in value addition. The study, therefore, recommends that development strategies should focus more on implementing initiatives that encourage and support farmers to engage in value addition activities. Stakeholders should also help in creating an enabling environment to improve smallholder farmers' participation in advanced levels of the livestock value chain. Furthermore, stakeholders should encourage farmers to engage in a vertical form of diversification by adding value to their commodities rather than a horizontal form of diversification that requires advanced management capabilities. Keywords: Value addition, Deepening Enterprise Development, probit model, Malawi.


Electrorheological (ER) fluids are fine semi-conducting particles in a non-conducting carrier fluid, which can alter their observed physical characteristics upon application of an external electric field. They are sometimes referred to as 'smart materials' and would appear to be of scientific and industrial interest. Theoretical responSe of a two degree of freedom system utilizing an ER damper is shown. This model could be representative of a quarter vehicle system, or a vibration absorber.


We propose in this paper a neural network-based lip-to-speech synthesis approach that converts "unvoiced" lip movements to "voiced" utterances. In our previous work, a lip-to-speech conversion method based on exemplar-based nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF) was proposed. However, this approach has several problems. First, the unnatural preprocessing of visual features is required to satisfy the nonnegativity constraint of NMF. Next, there is a possibility that an activity matrix cannot be shared between the visual and the audio feature in an NMF-based approach. To tackle these problems, in this paper, we use convolutional neural networks to convert visual features into audio features. Furthermore, we integrate an exemplar-based approach into the neural networks in order to adopt an advantage associated with our previous work. Experimental results showed that our proposed method produced more natural speech than conventional methods.


In the paper the linear force model used in car accident simulation programs is discussed. A model of restitution is proposed and the possible interpretation of CRASH coefficients is also discussed.


Space-division multiplexing (SDM) is a calling for devices that fully replace their single-mode fiber counterparts. Fast optical switches represent one such type of key devices. In this letter, we present a free-space optical add–drop multiplexer for multicore fiber (MCF) optical communications. Microelectromechanical mirrors were used as the optical switching element. We first detail the implementation steps leading to the proposed device and then characterize its performance in terms of crosstalk and insertion loss. Overall average crosstalk is around −38 dB, while insertion losses remain large. The device investigated here is another step towards the practical adoption of SDM for optical networks based on MCFs.


Flow visualization and multi-point simultaneous hot-wire measurements were made to study organized structures vicinity of roughness elements for the boundary layer over a k-type rough wall. Vortex structure in a groove is seemingly unsteady three-dimensional over a k-type rough wall but seemingly steady two-dimensional over a d-type rough wall. Frequency, duration and spanwise spatial scale were investigated and compared for inflows and outflows observed in the flow visualization and for ejections and sweeps detected in the hot-wire measurement.


Low glucosinolate rapeseed meal (RSM) (B. napus 'Bronowski'), rapeseed meal fractions (hulls, detailed meal, dehulled and water-washed meal, lyophilized water extract) derived from Bronowski and from a high glucosinolate rapeseed (B. napus 'Oro'), yellow mustard (B. hirta) hulls and meal were subjected to chemical and nutritional evaluations. Oat hulls and soybean meal were included for comparison. Proximate, amino acid and glucosinolate analyses and feeding experiments were conducted. The processed meals, hulls and extracts were included in diets to provide 8, 12 and 16% dietary crude protein in conjunction with a purified basal fraction containing 5% casein. The toxic effects of glucosinolates fed with active myrosinase were confirmed. Glucosinolates included in soybean meal (SBM) control diets were innocuous. Removal of rapeseed hulls increased digestible (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) and digestible crude protein contents, but the inclusion of the hulls in high energy, non-rapeseed meal (RSM) diet...


The invention provides a system for managing the energy efficiency of a power distribution network on the basis of reactive optimized coordination control. The system comprises a data acquiring layer, an area data converging layer and a main station layer, wherein the data acquiring layer consists of a plurality of pieces of terminal equipment, such as an integrated power distribution table area and a compensation device, and is used for acquiring the comprehensive electric quantity data and the working state of the public power distribution table area in real time; the area data converging layer is a plurality of data transmitting center substations which are established in a city or the other units; and the main station layer consists of a plurality of high-volume database servers, a disk array, a plurality of application servers, a WEB server, a plurality of working stations and an interface server. From the three aspects of grid capacity, technology and management, the system realizes power distribution network energy conservation estimation, energy efficiency monitoring and measurement, energy efficiency analysis, energy efficiency adjustment, new energy source access contribution rate estimation, and electric vehicle charging and discharging power station efficiency contribution rate estimation, and provides a basic supporting platform for energy conservation and emission reduction for countries and grid companies.


The paper examines the convergence properties of productivity in fifteen European countries over the period 1960-1997. Empirical tests are performed for the "Maastricht proposition," according to which nominal convergence in rates of inflation is a prerequisite for real convergence. Modern econometric techniques for non-stationary time series, organized Around and cointegration analysis are used to examine within-group and between-group convergence. The number of common, long-run stochastic trends in productivity series is also examined. The results suggest strong evidence against unconditional or conditional convergence. However, European productivity time series can be described by a relatively small number of common long-run trends.


Tissue factor and cytokine gene expression in whole blood from patients treated with oral anticoagulant, a comparison of; patients with heart valve replacement and patients treated for trombosis


THE PATIENT, a 19-year-old male smoker, was admitted to a rural Utah hospital in August 1994 with a dry cough, body aches, and fever to 39.4°C (1030F). He had been given amoxicillin for pharyngitis by another physician two days before admission. He reported recently cleaning mice feces and nests from an old house. On the initial examination, his respiratory rate was 24 breaths per minute, and pulse oximetry showed 90% saturation with the patient breathing 5 liters of oxygen per minute by nasal cannula. He had no retractions, rales, or wheezes. His heart was unremarkable. Laboratory studies revealed a leukocyte count of 25.8 X 109 per liter (25,800 per mm3), a hematocrit of 0.52 (52%), platelet count 24 x 109 per liter (24,000 per mm3), and a lactate dehydrogenase level of 741 U per liter. Arterial blood gas measurements with the patient breathing room air revealed a pH of 7.52, a Pco2 of 23


Parenting a child who has ADHD presents most parents with many challenges. The aim of study was to appraise the effectiveness and comparison of parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) and parent management training (PMT) to mothers in symptom improvement of 8-10 year old boys with ADHD in Urmia. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with a control group was used. The population consisted of all mothers of 8-10 year old boys with ADHD in Urmia in 2012 who were referred to the counseling and treatment centers and their children received ADHD combined type diagnosis. Children who had the highest scores in Conner's Rating Scale (teachers & parents) were considered as ADHD patients that 45 patients were selected by convenience sampling method and were assigned randomly into two experimental groups (n=15)and a control group. Then, experimental groups were trained by Eyberg's PCIT and Patterson's PMT during 9 sessions which were held once a week. The control group received no intervention. In order to collect the study's data Conners Scales and the SWAN Rating Scale for ADHD were used. Data analysis was done by analysis of covariance with SPSS-16 software. The results showed that the difference between pretest and posttest scores of control group is equal to F=185.23 that it is significant (p<0.01). Results of Tukey's test showed that there was significant difference between the PCIT and PMT at level of 0.05 and this effect was stronger for PCIT group. Overall, it can be concluded that both of the programs were effective in relieving the ADHD symptoms but the PCIT was more effective.


Endovascular therapy of arterial occlusive disease has made impressive progress since the first balloon angioplasty conceived by Dr Charles T. Dotter in 1964, followed by the first peripheral balloon angioplasty by Dr Andreas Gruntzig in 1974. Each advancement has frequently faced skepticism after the initial clinical experience. Thankfully, skepticism was met in kind with research seeking facile, minimally invasive, durable, safe, and cost-effective arterial occlusive disease therapy. The result is an impressive and successful multidecade international investment in coronary artery disease (CAD) therapy. Improvements from "plain old balloon angioplasty" ("POBA") to endovascular stenting and drug-eluting stents have shown impressive clinical and quality-of-life gains for patients with CAD. Based on large, randomized clinical trials in CAD, these technologies have resulted in universal reimbursement and wide penetration in clinical practice worldwide. Patients with acute myocardial infarction treated by endovascular techniques have fewer clinical events and improved survival. Individuals with CAD and angina, especially those with symptoms refractory to medical therapy, enjoy improved quality of life.

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More than 9 million people in the United States and as many as 27 million in North America and Europe have atherosclerotic peripheral artery disease (PAD). Of these, ≈10% have classic claudication, another 40% experience atypical leg symptoms, and a smaller cohort suffer critical limb ischemia.1 Recent data have demonstrated that care offered for such individuals is now associated with large healthcare costs ($4.37 billion in 2001 among Medicare beneficiaries).2 These costs are comparable to or greater than those for other common cardiovascular diseases (eg, cardiac dysrhythmias, congestive heart failure, and cerebrovascular disease). In distinct contrast to the health gains for individuals with CAD, comparable advances have not been achieved for patients with PAD. Despite comparable PAD prevalence in 2008, patients with PAD continue to have higher mortality and worse quality of …


The Colorado potato beetle (CPB), scientifically known as Leptinotarsa decemlineata, is a destructive quarantine pest that has invaded more than 40 countries and regions worldwide. It causes a 20–100% reduction in plant production, leading to severe economic losses. Picromerus bidens L. is a predatory insect that preys on CPB. This study used the MaxEnt model to predict the current and future potential distribution areas of CPB and P. bidens under different climatic scenarios to determine the possibility of using P. bidens as a natural enemy to control CPB. The possible introduction routes of CPB and P. bidens were subsequently predicted by combining their potential distribution with the current distribution of airports and ports. Notably, the potential distribution area of P. bidens was similar to that of CPB, suggesting that P. bidens could be used as a natural enemy to control CPB. Future changes in the suitable growth areas of CPB under different climate scenarios increased and decreased but were insignificant, while those of P. bidens decreased. Consequently, a reduction of the suitable habitats of P. bidens may cause a decrease in its population density, leading to a lack of adequate and timely prevention and control of invasive pests. Active measures should thus be enacted to minimize global warming and protect biodiversity. This study provides a theoretical basis and data support for early warning, monitoring, and control of the CPB spread.


The invention discloses a dyanmic-static mixed nerve network modeling-based anti-interference control method for a random system, and relates to random distributed control system batch output static nerve network modeling, dynamic nerve network modeling of output weight and composite anti-interface control based on an observer. The method comprises the following steps of: firstly, building a static nerve network approaching model for batch output of a random distributed control system; forming a weight dynamic system to dynamic nerve network approach of s static nerve network model; then, designing the observer aiming at bounded interface in the system to evaluate and perform feedforward compensation; and finally, designing gain of the observer and gain of a controller on the composite control system based on a linear matrix non-equality method, so that the system is stable and meets certain anti-interference performance.


Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) are a key product for sustainable and efficient electric transport. Long-life and safe LMBs require the development of solid or semisolid (e.g., gel polymer) electrolytes capable of blocking lithium dendrites. In this context, Janus double-faced membranes (JMs) offer interesting perspectives, as they allow for modulating the properties of each side according to specific requests. In this paper, we report on facile fabrication via the solvent casting of JMs based on poly(vinylidene fluoride hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP). Here, an electronically insulating layer containing Al2O3 is in contact with the anode, whereas a mixed ionically–electronically conducting layer containing Al2O3, carbon nanotubes, and Super P carbon black is in contact with the cathode. We also investigate the role of the JM thickness and show that a 40 μm membrane allows for ~45% of the specific nominal capacity at 2C with Coulombic efficiency of ~100%. The proposed JMs are very promising for LMBs.


This article used the vegetation restoration zone of artificial slope in Guandi Hydropower Station,Sichuan Yalong River as the research object,from the community composition,the important value,structure of growth and species diversity etc.,it applied the general ecology research methods to analyze the characteristics of community which was located on four typical sample plots of disturbance area.The results showed that,after a year of recovering and reconstructing,the amount of species had increased rapidly in the study areas,the local species had invaded massively,the diversity of species had been improved greatly and the community was in the initial stage of succession;Furthermore,Trifolium repens,Japanese creeper and Caulis mucunae as the initial arrangement plant had basically exited the community too fast,which didn't lead to achieve the desired results in the improving habitat and landscape value.That indicated these three plants should be discarded and proposed for corresponding improvement measures on planting methods.


The invention concerns coating agents based on (meth) acrylate copolymers with hydroxyl groups and blocked urethane prepolymers with carboxyl groups, as well as crosslinking agents and the usual additives and solvents for paints, the coating agents being particularly suitable for the production of a transparent finishing coat in a multi-coat coating. The coating agents proposed contain binders made from: A) 5.0 to 40.0 % by wt. of urethane prepolymers with carboxyl groups and having an OH-number from 0 to 80, an acid number from 5 to 50 and a molecular weight from 500 to 5,000, the prepolymers being obtained by reacting together: a1) 10 to 50 mol % of alkane diols or cycloalkane diols, a2) 10 to 30 mol % of polycarboxylic acids or anhydrides, a3) 0 to 30 mol % of polyols with at least three OH-groups, a4) 0 to 20 mol % of hydroxycarboxylic acids with at least one hydroxyl group and at least one carboxyl group, a5) 10 to 40 mol % of aliphatic, cycloaliphatic and/or arylaliphatic di- and/or polyisocyanates and a6) 10 to 40 mol % of monofunctional NCO-blocking agents, B) 30.0 to 70.0 % by wt. of hydroxy-group-containing (meth) acrylate copolymers with a molecular weight from 2,000 to 20,000, an acid number from 1 to 50 and an OH-number from 30 to 200, C) 0 to 50.0 % by wt. of polyesters which hydroxyl groups and having an OH-number from 40 to 200 and D) 5.0 to 40.0 % by wt. of additional crosslinking agents.


The Mahidasht region is a vital cultural sphere on the Great Khorasan Road that has provided substantial evidence for administrative activity, which is considered to be an indicator of economic and political complexity in late prehistoric societies. This article discusses a corpus of bureaucratic artefacts from the site of Tapeh Tyalineh in the Kouzaran plain in the north of Mahidasht, including 52 jar sealings and 12 door sealings. The artefacts were found during the recent surveys conducted by two of the authors at Tapeh Tyalineh after reports were received of illegal diggings at the site by villagers who had used its soil to plaster the roofs of their houses and to level and cultivate their farmland. Tyalineh seal impressions are studied here in terms of style and iconography in order to date the corpus of administrative artefacts. Furthermore, applying a functionalist approach, the artefacts are examined to answer questions regarding the nature and function of the site. The results suggest that the corpus dates to the proto-Elamite era. The significance of the door sealings, as the most important artefact type from Tyalineh, is that at least a part of the site was devoted to administrative affairs, which probably involved holding certain commodities in rather small closed-mouthed jars and then securing them behind locked doors. The administrative technology not only at Tyalineh but also at Chogha Maran and Dehsavar in Mahidasht and Godin VI:1 in Kangavar attest to well-established Early Bronze Age administrative and economic institutions along the Khorasan Road in the Central Zagros, which were involved in interregional commercial interactions.


This article considers the question of whether policies that propose to forbid public officials, most notably teachers, from wearing religious clothing in the classroom can be justified by political principles of secularism – specifically, the principle of state neutrality and the principle of state autonomy from religious influence. Two prominent arguments on behalf of an affirmative answer to this question are identified and evaluated, ultimately casting doubt on the cogency of prohibitionist arguments. The claim is then advanced that secular principles are most compellingly understood in educational contexts as principles of professional ethics – that is, as grounds for teacher reflection. To support this claim, we conclude by presenting two scenarios in which teachers face difficult decisions about whether to wear or remove an otherwise obligatory religious symbol. In this discussion, the importance of balance considerations of religious conscience with the value of public trust is emphasized.


The study of aerosol deposition in human respiratory airways is important not only because of possible health hazards connected to inhalation of aerosol, but also for potential use of drug aerosols. Inhalation of drug aerosols is commonly used for treatment of lung diseases, such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It is also becoming very popular for delivery of drugs with systemic effects, because this approach is non–invasive, non-destructive and rapid due to the large lung surface area (nearly 80 m 2 ). In both cases drug delivery needs to be targeted in specific part of the respiratory airways to make it successful and costeffective. In order to do this, it is crucial to understand deposition patterns and characteristics. Deposition of particles has been studied for few decades, but only few studies have been related to nonspherical particles. Edwards et al (Edwards, 1997) found out that porous particles can be very convenient for drug delivery. Porous particles are very light particles (density ρ < 0.4 g/cm 3 ) with large diameter d > 5 μm. Their advantages as drug carriers are long-term drug release, lower risk of agglomeration and long bioavailability. Porous particles can be manufactured by several methods such as spray-drying, freeze-drying, polymerization, crystallization etc. Tanaka et al (Tanaka, 2011) produced porous particles by liquid–liquid interfacial crystallization. They sprayed glycine and sodium chloride solution into 1–butanol with 3–fluid nozzle at room temperature. The crystallization was progressed by increase of supersaturation caused by the slightly mutual diffusion at the liquid–liquid system.


The experimental data obtained when studying the reactions of ketyl radicals with H 2 O 2 and PhC(O)OOC(O)Ph are processed within the framework of the parabolic model of the bimolecular reaction and the oscillation model of the concerted decomposition of species. The parameters determining the activation energy of these reactions are calculated. A comparison of the thermoneutral activation energies E 0 of the reactions of H abstraction from the O-H bond by the radicals and molecules shows that the interaction of the peroxy radical with peroxide is characterized by much higher activation energy than its reaction with phenol or the reaction of the ketyl radical with ketone. This may be attributed to the considerable repulsion of the >CO and OR (or OH) groups in the transition state. The role of these reactions in the liquid-phase chain oxidation is considered. In the course of the liquid-phase oxidation, the ketyl radicals react with hydroperoxides more rapidly than with RO * 2 and O 2 .


The paper contributes to the limited literature on job reallocation dynamics in Indian manufacturing. The study uses annual data from the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) for the years 2000–01 to 2015–16. The study finds job reallocation in India to be quite high compared to flexible labour markets such as the United States and Canada. Gross job reallocation shows a rising trend over time, which is driven partially by the increasing share of contract workers in the workforce. There is heterogeneity in the job reallocation dynamics across job types. This is evident in the relative importance of the different job types as plants adjust to permanent and temporary changes in demand. Labour regulations also play an important role in such a process. Finally, in contrast to the evidence for the United States and the United Kingdom, our study found firm evidence to reject the hypothesis that job reallocation is countercyclical in India.


This article presents the initial steps of a research that aims to examine the cartographies produced for the city of Sao Paulo, from a historical perspective, for which we have selected some key pieces: the maps of the late nineteenth century, and the surveys SARA Brazil from 1930, VASP/ Cruzeiro from 1954, and GEGRAN from 1973. It is about understanding, at different times, how the edges of the city are seen from those maps and, more specifically, identifying the relationship between physical occupation, legal boundaries and the dimensions of the urban phenomenon.


According to Ertel's potential vorticity the thermodynamical parameters in the equation of state define the forces which move the vortices and modify them in space and time.


In 2004, Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index ranks Uruguay at 28, seven positions higher than in 2001, scores changed from 5.1 to 6.2 (a higher score means less perceived corruption). In addition, there were no relevant corruption scandals in that period. Hence, we should ask: what are the foundations of corruption perception? We assess this at the micro-level. Our dataset is the module on Citizenship of the International Social Survey Program (that was carried out in 2004) and we estimate ordered a probit model. We find that some economic variables are significant. In particular we show that those who work in private enterprises tend to perceive higher levels of corruption as do unemployed people. Hence those who may be on the supply side of the bribe "market" perceive a higher level of corruption than those on the demand side (civil servants). In addition, our main contribution to the existence literature is showing that socio-demographic variables play a relevant role. We show that those who belong to the youngest group, who took, at least, high school studies and those who belong to a religious group are more likely to perceive a higher level of corruption.


The development mode of chlor-alkali industry to construct circular economy industrial chain through industry joint is related according to the present situation and characteristics of chlor-alkali industry.The circular economy industrial mode developed by some chlor-alkali enterprises is empirically analyzed.It is suggested that chlor-alkali enterprises should use well the region and resource advantages and follow the development mode of constructing different,fine and environmental friendly circular economy industry in a large scale.


During the online detection of wheel set wear based on optoelectronic image,the speed of wheel set image processing has significant impact to the real-time of online detection. Aiming at the problem that the wheel set image processing speed can not meet the requirement of high speed wheel set online detection,the calculation advantage of multi-core processors was used and the wheel set image processing method based on Open MP parallel technology was studied. Through the analysis of the characteristics of wheel set image,according to the different type of wheel set image,different segmentation method was used and the influence of wheel set image segmentation step to the postprocessing was reduced; the programming mode of multi image parallel processing was proposed and the parallel optimization scheme was designed,the Open MP was used to realize the parallel optimization of the processing of wheel set image. Then the image processing effect of Open MP four threads and single thread was compared to verify the processing acceleration effect of wheel set image through the experiment.The research results indicated that,based on multi-core,the parallel optimization of wheel set image processing by Open MP has improved the speed more than 2 times and met the requirement of wheel set online detection under 80 km / h speed.


The invention discloses a sampling method and a network chip. When the network chip determines that sampling is needed, the network chip performs X adding operation to a counter index after receiving a message, and reads a value returned by a counter, and the returned value includes a value of an overflow mark and the counter index having been subjected to the X-adding operation, wherein X is a preset value, and the value of the overflow mark comprises a first preset value or a second preset value; the first preset value indicates counter overflow after the X-adding operation and the second preset value indicates that counter overflow does not occur after the X operation; the network chip judges whether the value of the overflow mark is the first preset value or not; and if the value of the overflow mark is the first preset value, the network chip carries out sampling.


Parasitic plants are organisms that feed on other plants, often distantly related to them evolutionarily. This feeding strategy causes them to be a major threat to agriculture, negatively affecting the yields of many staple crops like sorghum and rice. To infect their hosts, parasitic plants need to develop an invasive structure known as haustorium, which allows vasculature connection between the two plants and the exchange of nutrients and signalling molecules. A key step for successful parasitism is the invasion of the host tissues by the haustorium. This process relies on the modification of the host's cell-adhesion, mainly through the action of cell-wall modifying enzymes such as pectin methylesterases (PMEs), peroxidases and pectate lyases. However, despite the importance of this process, the role of these enzymes has not been closely investigated in parasitic plants. In particular, no studies have been performed on the parasitic plant Phtheirospermum japonicum, which is a model for root facultative parasites. The aim of this thesis was to study the role of PMEs in the development of P. japonicum haustoria during parasitism of its host Arabidopsis thaliana. The approach used includes the analysis of newly generated transcriptomics data, as well as pectin-specific staining and the analysis of parasitism efficiency on host cell-adhesion mutants. The results obtained suggest the involvement of PMEs in different stages of haustorium formation, from the early host invasion to later vasculature connection development, setting the basis for more in-depth studies on the subject.


Objective: We investigated secular trends in incidence of first-ever stroke and the prevalence of stroke risk factors within the same population in rural China. Methods: In 1985, 15,438 residents from a township of Tianjin, China, were recruited to the Tianjin Brain Study, a population-based stroke surveillance study. Stroke events and all deaths were registered annually. Because imaging technology was first available in 1992, we analyzed the incidence of first-ever stroke over 3 study periods—1992–1998, 1999–2005, and 2006–2012—from 1992 to 2012. Risk factor surveys were conducted in 1991 and 2011. Results: The age-standardized incidence of first-ever stroke per 100,000 person-years increased rapidly from 124.5 in 1992–1998 to 190.0 in 1999–2005 and to 318.2 in 2006–2012; incidence increased annually by 6.5% overall and by 12% among men aged 45–64 years (p < 0.05). From 1992 to 2012, the age at first-ever stroke in men was earlier by 3.3 years overall, but a similar trend was not observed in women. Concurrently, the prevalence of high fasting glucose and alcohol consumption increased significantly in both men and women, especially in men aged <45 years; the prevalence of obesity and high fasting glucose increased by 8.8-fold and 11-fold, respectively, from 1992 to 2012. Conclusions: The incidence of stroke in rural China increased rapidly, particularly among middle-aged adults, along with a concurrent increase in risk factor prevalence. These findings suggest that without controlling these risk factors, stroke incidence will continue to increase over future decades in China.


In this paper we summarize some basic principles of legged locomotion in animals and then discuss the application of the principles to the design and fabrication of a four-legged robot. The here presented model combines ideas for better locomotion of robots both in the biologically inspired, mechanically intelligent structure and in the bionic controller. The movement of the legs is triggered by bionic drives with a setup similarly to biological muscles. The robot is characterized by several different gaits and an animal like locomotion without using feedback control. It has four legs, each having three joints of which two are actuated. During the development we also paid attention to the technical realization of the model. Special techniques to reduce the weight of the robot such as the achievement of different motions by changing the spring stiffness by means of intelligent control instead of an additional motor were also focused on during the development. Two novel features of our four-legged concept comprise the possibility of easily changing the spring stiffness deployed in the bionic drives of the joints and the way of this adjustment which requires neither complex computation nor additional motor. This feature allows the smooth transition to different gaits without necessarily having to change the controller parameters.


High reflectivity and low loss mirrors are very much
essential for state-of art sensors like Ring Laser Gyroscopes widely
used for navigation of moving platforms. Surface scattering is the
main source of loss for the Laser mirrors of high reflectivity.
Surface scattering also lead to coupling of back reflected light
leading to dead band of optical sensors at low input rotation.
Super polished glass substrates have been prepared from low
expansion glass ceramic material. Surface roughness is achieved
about 3-5Å (RMS value) for the ceramic glass substrates prior to
thin film coating. The substrates are deposited with 41 alternative
layers of SiO2 and Ta2O5 of Quarter-Wave optical thickness with
Electron Beam Deposition (EBD) technique. Ion beam Assisted
Electron Beam Deposition (IAEBD) is used for another batch of
substrates to coat identical stack of layers on glass substrates of
the same surface quality. The key process parameters of both the
coating processes are presented. The optical constants of the films
are evaluated with spectroscopic Ellipsometer from 400nm to
1600nm. Total Integrated Scattering is estimated from the
achieved surface finishing of mirrors deposited. The multi-layer
coatings are characterized with UV-Vis-IR Spectrophotometer
and Cavity Ring Down(CRD) loss meter. The quantitative optical
loss of the mirrors is measured at 45o
angle of incidence with CRD
loss meter. The merits of ion assisted EB process over simple EB
coating processes are evaluated against optical constants of thin
films and performances of mirrors. Fitness of the processes for
realizing Laser mirrors for optical sensors at 632.8nm is
evaluated.


Studies of cricket injuries show an increasing incidence, varying from2.6 to 333/10 000 athlete hours played, 2–4 with 28.4– 71.6% of cricketers2 sustaining between 1.61 and 1.91 injuries per season. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of 6week balance training on agility in young cricketers. 66 young cricket players between the age group of 12-16 yrs were selected and randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group. T agility test, Hexagonal agility test, Single limb stance test, Multidirectional reach test were used as outcome measures. The experimental group underwent 6 week balance training in addition to regular routine exercises. Experimental group showed significant improvement in balance and agility. T agility test performance improved from 13.36+ 1.34 sec to 12.5+ 1.35 sec. Hexagonal agility test performance improved from 20.25 +3.08 to 17.52+ 2.26. Thus it can be concluded that 6 weeks balance training programme improves agility in young cricketers.


[Abstract] In the existing intelligent command control system study, the analysis results of the commander's battlefield situation questions are provided from knowledge-based situation data. Analysis reporters write these results in various expressions of natural language. However, it is important to analyze situations about information and intelligence according to context. Analyzing the battlefield situation using artificial intelligence is necessary. We propose a virtual dataset generation method based on battlefield simulation scenarios in order to provide a dataset necessary for the battlefield situation analysis based on artificial intelligence. Dataset is generated after identifying battlefield knowledge elements in scenarios. When a candidate hypothesis is created, a unit hypothesis is automatically created. By combining unit hypotheses, similar identification hypothesis combinations are generated. An aggregation hypothesis is generated by grouping candidate hypotheses. Dataset generator SW implementation demonstrates that the proposed method can be generated the virtual battlefield situation dataset.


Spinoza argues that we are (=) not the cause of our thoughts and actions, but only assume that we are based (e) on their affects upon us. This leads to (eb) dualisms of substance (such as Descartes' mind/body split). Deleuze insists on this point because he sees Spinoza bypassing (e) an important illusion of subjectivity: we suppose (eb) that we are (=) causes and not effects. The illusion of consciousness, for Spinoza a result of inadequate knowledge and sad affects, allows us (eb) to posit a transcendental consciousness supposedly free from the interventions of the world (as in Descartes). This is in fact a blind-spot which precludes us from knowing ourselves as caused, the practical meaning of which is (=) that we deny our own 'sociality', as one mode amongst others, and the significance of the relations (e&eb) that we enter into, which actually determine (eb) our power to act, and our ability to experience...... The full paper: http://www.iiste.org/PDFshare/APTA-PAGENO-238880-243627.pdf


The American Society of Hispanic Economists (ASHE)—a member of the Allied Social Science Association—is a professional association of economists and other social scientists who are concerned with the under-representation of Hispanic Americans in the economics profession and with the lack of research generated on Hispanic American economic and policy issues. Our primary goals include: 1. Promoting the vitality of Hispanics in the economics profession through education, service, and excellence; 2. Promoting rigorous research on economic and policy issues affecting US Hispanic communities and the nation as a whole; and 3. Engaging more Hispanic Americans to effectively participate in the economics profession.


The central hypothesis of the research here presented, regarding cooperation initiatives with developing countries — in particular with African Countries of Portuguese Official Language (Palops), implies the recognition that although its origin corresponds to a previous process, it is since the Labor Party (PT) electoral rise in Brazil that such initiatives acquire a new intensity, whose dimension allows conceiving them as a rupture. The purpose of understanding Brazilian foreign policy changes as a paradigm change, thus, configures an approach to understand the approximation movement towards developing countries that does not become a hostage to the pragmatism versus ideology dichotomy. In order to underpin that thesis, this article is divided in three sections. At first we develop some reflections on modernization, development and national interest, relating these ideas to the constitution of Brazilian foreign policy traditions throughout the 20th century. In the second section, in turn, we deal with the concept of International Development Cooperation (IDC), approaching its historical genesis and main implications. We will then analyze the Brazilian case, addressing cooperation and partnership initiatives aiming to establish closer relations with Global South countries. To this extent, having the political changes occurred in South America during the early 21st as backdrop, we will present the notions of Solidarity Diplomacy and Responsible Pragmatism as guidelines that structure a new Brazilian Foreign Policy approach. Finally, as an offshoot of this new perspective, some results of the partnership dynamic established between Brazil and Portuguese-speaking countries of the Global South will be presented in the last section.


Early Pennsylvanian (309–318 Ma) paleocave sediments hosted in the Mississippian (345–359 Ma) Leadville Limestone were partly derived from long-distance (>2000 km) source areas. In addition to showing the importance of long-distant dust transport in cave sediments, because these paleocave deposits are derived from loess, their presence may document the earliest terrestrial signature of the late Paleozoic ice age in North America. The Leadville Limestone was subject to karst processes following late Mississippian eustatic sea-level fall, including formation of phreatic tubes, breakout domes, tower karst (kegelkarst), solution valleys (poljes), sinkholes (dolines), solution-enhanced joints (grikes), surfi cial fl utes (rillenkarren), and solution pans (kamenit-zas). In the Leadville Limestone, speleothems are interbedded with karst breccias and fl uvial cave sediments. The overlying Pennsylvanian Molas Formation is a loessite (eolian siltstone) composed of angular quartz silt with ferruginous kaolinite rims. The U-Pb ages of accessory zircons indicate that the source areas for the eolian silt are from the peri-Gondwanan terranes and Grenville Province of eastern and southern North America, which are ~2000 km to the east. There is also a provenance signature from the rising Ancestral Rocky Mountains. The evidence suggests dust trapping on land surfaces by paleokarst topography, moisture, and vegetation. Weak paleosols in the Molas Formation suggest relatively rapid rates of dust accumulation. The high porosity and low bulk density of modern loess soils make passageways by groundwater (GW) sapping/ piping in loess soils, (5) fl uvial transport and redeposition of loess in paleocave passageways, (6) stream- fl ood events causing inundites and debrites in phreatic tubes, and (7) development of breakout domes in abandoned phreatic tubes, with interbedded speleothems, karst breccias, and fl uvial cave sediments repre- senting a series of episodic events.


Simultaneous expansion of the Internet and increased globalisation of the pharmaceutical industry have meant medication can be accessed transnationally from both legal and illicit sources. This has coincided with the rise of substandard and falsified medicines (SFMs) online. These products fail to meet regulatory or quality standards and/or are constituted with substandard ingredients, causing undesired pharmacological effects, including possible injury and death. This review aimed to identify original research studies that examined characteristics of SFM online sales, attitudes towards purchasing medicines online and strategies to address this drug safety challenge. Keywords of 'Substandard' and 'Falsified'/'Counterfeit' and 'Medicines'/'Drugs' and 'Online'/'Internet' were searched using Web of Knowledge and PubMed databases. Resulting literature, which satisfied the study's inclusion criteria, was included in the review, and the findings from each paper were assessed. From an initial 185 literature articles, 7 were eligible according to the inclusion criteria to be reviewed. These articles identified studies testing SFMs purchased online, surveys of attitudes and knowledge about SFMs online, and website content analysis to detect illegal online sales. Challenges identified were lack of knowledge and awareness among consumers and physicians, in addition to the use of direct-to-consumer-advertising, via Internet platforms and social media, providing easy access to SFMs. Despite this, medicine authentication technology, website verification approaches and new detection methods were identified as potential solutions specific to online SFM sales. To address online sales of SFMs, more robust research, greater awareness/educational programmes, analytical detection methods and more stringent online global governance are required.


The aim of this paper is to introduce a new family of monotone integral quantities associated with certain parabolic evolution equations for hypersurfaces; and to deduce from these some results about the limiting behaviour of the evolving hypersurfaces. A variety of parabolic equations for hypersurfaces have been considered. One of the earliest was the Gauss curvature flow; introduced in [Fi] as a model for the changing shape of a stone wearing on a beach. The stone is represented by a bounded convex region; and each point on its surface moves in the inward normal direction with speed equal to the Gauss curvature: If the surface at timet is given by an embeddingxt; then @x @t DiK n; whereK is the Gauss curvature; and n the outward unit normal. Firey showed that stones which are symmetric about the origin shrink to points in finite time; and are asymptotically spherical in shape. Other evolution equations have been considered since then; of the form


The present work aims to analyze the mechanical characteristics of sisal fiber over other natural fibers and non-natural fibers. Over the past decades, natural fibers are established as promising raw material for development of major components in the field of automobile and aviation industry. Sisal fibers are extracted from Agave sisal Ana plant and fibers sheets have been prepared in bidirectional method and reinforced with epoxy, followed up angle ply laminate using hand layup technique. After curing, laminate was cut by CNC machine as per ASTM standards. The mechanical properties were determined and observed that the strength properties were found lower than the glass fiber reinforced composites. However these natural fiber composites have enough strength and stiffness and could be used in various nonstructural critical components in aviation and automobile industries for the problem of weight penalty.


Drones have given new value to low- and mid-level airspace, yet in almost all states, property owners lack a clear right to exclude drones as they would a trespasser on the land — contrary to what many property owners would assume. All states are struggling with the uncertainties that drone conflicts reveal in airspace law, but no state has acted to clarify its laws by going as far as to grant surface owners clear exclusionary rights over lower altitudes of airspace over their properties. Instead, many states, including Arkansas, have acted to regulate the conduct of drone operations. This article examines Arkansas's current statutory and common law regulating private drone operations and explains why the current law fails to ensure predictable outcomes that will govern behavior and prevent conflict. This article describes the likely rise of drone conflicts and Arkansas's current conduct-based laws that target drones. As broad as the new statutory restrictions are, they do not give a property owner a clear right to exclude a drone that is otherwise operating legally. The article then tracks the historical development of Arkansas airspace law, highlighting the uncertainty of the current nuisance-based rule of airspace ownership. The law that was adequate to address fixed-wing overflights does not easily or predictably resolve drone overflights. Finally, the article discusses why a return to allowing surface owners a zone of airspace ownership within which they may exclude drones is appealing, but unlikely given aggressive federal regulations. And yet when the law runs counter to surface owners' expectations and fails to recognize and clearly define the airspace rights of surface owners, conflicts are likely to continue.


Ethernet performance test of optical transmission network mainly includes throughput, latency, lost rate and back to back. This paper introduces the basic principles of the Ethernet test, the application method of Ethernet test instrument, test items, test configurations, test procedures and matters needing attention.


We prove a lower bound of Ω ( n 2 /log 2 n ) on the size of any syntactically multilinear arithmetic circuit computing some explicit multilinear polynomial f ( x 1 ,..., x n ). Our approach expands and improves upon a result of Raz, Shpilka and Yehudayoff ([34]), who proved a lower bound of Ω ( n 4/3 /log 2 n ) for the same polynomial. Our improvement follows from an asymptotically optimal lower bound for a generalized version of Galvin's problem in extremal set theory. A special case of our combinatorial result implies, for every n , a tight Ω ( n ) lower bound on the minimum size of a family F of subsets of cardinality 2 n of a set X of size 4 n , so that any subset of X of size 2 n has intersection of size exactly n with some member of F . This settles a problem of Galvin up to a constant factor, extending results of Frankl and Rödl [15] and Enomoto et al. [12], who proved in 1987 the above statement (with a tight constant) for odd values of n , leaving the even case open.


The American Concrete Pipe Association, ACPA, was organized in Ames, Iowa, in 1907. Since 1970, the Association has sponsored a variety of research programs to expand and improve the market position of precast concrete pipe. The following paragraphs will present the major research programs and benefits to the industry


We simplify the proof of a Gaussian correlation inequality for plurisubharmonic functions found by Barthe and Cordero-Erausquin. The new observation is a second-order integration-by-parts formula in the complex Gaussian setting.


Image segmentation is an important processing technology, which is the basis of image recognition and has been widely used in many fields. In this paper, we propose a method, termed coarse-to-fine strategy-based image segmentation (CSIS), for color image segmentation. The basic idea is to segment an image by three phases: (1) the original image is first segmented into several distinct regions by using the mean shift method; (2) the segmented regions are converted to a weighted region adjacency graph (RAG), and a new graph cut method, called multi-cut algorithm, is proposed to partition the RAG into multiple regions; (3) a one-step Chan–Vese algorithm is applied to smooth the boundaries of the segmented objectives. In each of the last two phases, a method is applied to refine the result obtained in the previous phase. By carefully balancing the efforts used in each phase, CSIS could segment color images both efficiently and effectively. These advantages are demonstrated by applying the proposed method to a variety of test instances, and the statistical results also show that it is comparable with some state-of-the-art methods.


Aiming at the current mind state of Yaku employees and existing problems,this paper proposes to views and strategies on how to do well in guiding young employees' ideological education,in order to provide services for ideological education work of young employees under the new situation.


This paper briefly presents three main formulae for calculating max. and min. polished rod loads of pumping unit, and makes a comparison between them in detail. It is shown that there is a marked difference between the two calculated by the different formulae. But ratings solved by theformulae most in use could simplify them to the least. This paper also makes suggestions for selection to formulae for calculating the polished rod loads.


Abstract A new species of aphelinid Coccophagus euxanthodes (Chalcidoidea) from the specimens collected on the lac insects, Paratachardina sp. and Tachardina sp. from Indonesia and Malaysia is described.


PNEUMOCYSTIS carinii pneumonia is seen in patients with acquired immune deficiencies. 1 A high index of suspicion is mandatory in the antemortem diagnosis of this infection since it is 100% fatal if not treated. Treatment with pentamidine or cotrimoxazole has been reported to be effective. 2 Generally, infection is manifested by fever, tachypnea, alveolar infiltrates on chest roentgenograms, and hypoxemia. 1 However, not all of these signs may be present, and the cause of the patient's respiratory difficulties may be obscure. We report a case of biopsy-proved recurrent Pneumocystis infection in a renal transplant patient with normal chest roentgenograms. Report of a Case An 18-year-old man with renal failure secondary to chronic glomerulonephritis received a kidney from his father in 1970. He received prednisone and azathioprine as antirejection treatment. In 1972, a fibrosarcoma from his right anterior thigh was removed. In 1974, abnormal liver function test results were noted. Azathioprine


The invention relates to the field of battery technology, in particular to a safe cover special for lithium ion battery with a trip protection function. The safe cover comprises a battery top cover and a pair of round metal connection sheets which are divided into an inner connection sheet and an outer connection sheet in a sequence from the inside to the outside of the battery, wherein a negative battery lug is welded on the inner connection sheet; the outer connection sheet contacts the battery top cover; a hole with horn mouth-shaped flange is arranged on the inner connection sheet; a cap cover closing-in shaped is correspondingly arranged on the outer connection sheet and is elastically snapped on the horn mouth-shaped flange of the hole on the inner connection sheet; and an insulating ring is arranged between the two connection sheets for isolating other contact portions except the engagement portion. Compared with prior art, the safe cover of the invention has a much smaller impedance value and is suitable for large-current discharge of battery; and the connection sheets are connected with each other in the elastic snapping manner to facilitate the production process, greatly lower the production cost and achieve a better safety effect than prior art.


Objective To study the prevalences of overweight and obesity in middle-aged and elderly people of a community in Jiading district,Shanghai,and to evaluate the correlation between overweight/obesity status and obesity-related diseases.Methods Ten thousand three hundred and seventy-five subjects aged 40 years or older from Jiading district,Shanghai were recruited to undergo questionnaire interview,anthropometric measurement and biochemical evaluation.There were 3 957 men and 6 418 women.In accordance with the World Health Organization(WHO) criteria,overweight and obesity were defined as a body mass index(BMI) equal to or greater than 25 and 30,respectively.Linear regression model was used to analyze the relation between BMI and other related risk factors,and Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the effect of overweight/obesity on prevalence of metabolic-related diseases.Results In this study,the mean BMI was 25.1±3.3 and the prevalences of overweight and obesity were 42.92% and 7.27%,respectively.Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that with the increase of BMI,waist circumference,systolic blood pressure(BP),diastolic BP,fasting plasma glucose(FPG),postprandial 2 h plasma glucose(2hPG),total cholesterol(TC),low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),triglyceride(TG) increased(all P0.01) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C) decreased(β=-0.027,P0.000 1).Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that both overweight and obesity were the independent risk factors for hypertension,diabetes,dyslipidemia,metabolic syndrome and stroke [odds ratio(OR) from 1.50 to 13.2,all P0.000 1].Conclusions The prevalences of overweight and obesity in middle age and elderly people were 42.92% and 7.27%,respectively.Both overweight and obesity were independent risk factors for obesity-related disease such as hypertension,diabetes,dyslipidemia,metabolic syndrome and stroke.


Basing on the framework of hyaluronic acid( HA) and method of chemical modification,a novel selenide hyaluronic acid( SeHA) was synthesized to be functioned as a mimic of glutathione peroxidase( GPX) with activity of 276. 88 U / μmol. The structure of SeHA was characterized by means of IR and NMR with the conclusion that the target SeH was located at —CH2OH of the N—acetyl- D- glucosamine. Antioxidant activity was studied by using ferrous sulfate / ascorbate-induced mitochondria damage model system,The result demonstrated that SeHA could obviously inhibited the swelling of mitochondria,reduced the accumulation of MDA、preserved the activity of cytochrome-coxidase in the mitochondria damage model system. Compared with PZ51,the GPX activity of SeHA was more conspicuous.


Neuroteology was created as an attempt to enter the mentalisation religious experiences through precise studies of cerebral base and modern methods of functional neuroimaging (MRI, PET, SPECT). The protagonists of neuroteology believe that mystical and religious states can be voluntarily or involuntarily caused by manipulation of the structures of the limbic system, including the hippocampus, hypothalamus, amygdala and right frontal and temporal lobe. Neuroteology studies are quite intriguing and act as an important link in determining the position of the spiritual in man. It inspires us to think intensively about the complexity of the relationship between religion and the brain. Neuroteology as a scientific discipline in perspective can significantly improve our knowledge about religion, spirituality and the brain.


Defect mitigation in scoreboards. Defects in a display panel are displayed and the defect information is associated with the display system or associated with the panel. During a panel operation, the values of pixels adjacent defective pixels changed to minimize their visibility for the viewer. In a first model, a luminance error that is caused by a defect, balanced by adjusting the surrounding pixels. In a second model, an error in luminance and one of the two Farbartkanale is compensated by adjusting the surrounding pixels. The defect mitigation methods want to move the errors introduced by defective pixels in high spatial frequency elements and -farbelemente for which the human eye is not sensitive.


While I agree with most of what Charlotte Pegman has to say about employees' legal rights in the event of an assault or accident at work (career development April 8), there is one statement I take issue with.


Abstract
A workshop on the development of an attenuated vaccine for schistosomiasis was held. This report of the workshop briefly reviews the recent progress toward a vaccine and discusses further work that must be done in the areas of technical feasibility, safety, and logistics.


It is a privilege to present this special issue of Translational Andrology and Urology ( TAU ), which focuses on radiation therapy for prostate cancer. Many thanks to the dedicated and generous authors whose contributions made this issue possible.


Auricular defects resulting from congenital anomalies or ablative surgery pose a major reconstructive challenge for the clinician. Various treatment modalities for correction of such defects include surgical reconstruction or prosthetic rehabilitation with extraoral implants or adhesives. Sometimes, however, the patient declines surgical reconstruction; in such cases, adhesive-retained prostheses provide a cost-effective and cosmetically acceptable means of camouflage. This case report describes the successful rehabilitation of a patient with congenitally malformed ear using adhesive retained silicone auricular prosthesis. It was acceptable to the patient because of excellent support & retention and satisfactory


We consider the interaction of two enemy nations. Nation 1 wants to develop a nuclear bomb (or other weapons of mass destruction). Nation 2 wants to prevent such a development through the deterrence of a threatened attack, or an actual attack if it thought the bomb was produced. 2 has an intelligence system that imperfectly indicates the presence of a bomb. 1, if lacking the bomb, can open its facilities to prevent an attack. A further uncertainty is that nation 2 does not know nation 1's type. He could be a Deterrer, whose prime goal is to avoid an attack, or he could a Provocateur who prefers an unjustified attack if he does not possess the bomb, so as to build support from inside his nation and the outside world. The game has a unique sequential equilibrium. The qualitative nature of that equilibrium depends on parameters, on preferences and information conditions. A number of initially counterintuitive results emerge. For example, it may sometimes be rational (an equilibrium strategy) for 2 to attack even though 1 does ∗Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel and Ariel University, Israel, email@example.com †The Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, Israel and Stony Brook University, NY, USA,email@example.com ‡Harvard University, USA,Richard email@example.com


Over 40 years ago, I became interested in cardiac resuscitation when I watched a patient die of bradycardia and repeated asystolic syncope within 3 weeks of her first Stokes-Adams attack. Some way to stimulate effective cardiac beats was needed that would be quick and easy to apply with the brief time available, and also safe. Cardiac stimulation with an esophageal electrode behind the heart and a second one over the precordium came first to mind in those early days of esophageal electrocardiography. Indeed, this almost noninvasive approach was soon found to be successful in stimulating atrial or ventricular beats in anesthetized dogs when attached to an external pulse generator. The esophageal electrode was discarded, however, when totally noninvasive pacing was achieved more simply with both electrodes placed externally over the precordium. In 1952, noninvasive temporary ventricular pacing was first used clinically to resuscitate two patients repeatedly from recurring asystole.' Noninvasive pacing became established thereafter as an effective means of resuscitation from bradycardia and asystole in many clinical circumstances, or more broadly, whenever a ventricular rhythm was needed at any desired rate or duration.' For example, we soon observed that recurring ventricular tachycardias and fibrillation, including torsade de pointes, were often suppressed by acceleration of the ventricular rate above a threshold critical level for these arrhythmia^.^ The need for long-term pacing with an implantable pacemaker became obvious with the first clinical trials of temporary pacing, but it was not until 1958 that this goal was r e a l i ~ e d . ~ Many new procedures were developed in the


Currently the speed estimation methods for control system of speed sensorless are sensitive to changes in the motor stator resistance, and have poor robustness. This paper is proposed a method to obtain the motor speed: by using the stator quadrature axis current and speed equations in permanent magnet synchronous motor, to construct a linear dimensionality reduction Luenberger observer. The notable features of this method are the fast tracking speed and torque response. Finally by applying Matlab simulation and experiments, to verify the effectiveness and feasibility of this system design.


Japanese industries are changing their ma 皿 facturing plants from Japan to overseas sponding to the base shifting , optimum arrangement of their distribution centers in Japan must be changed . However , the shifting distribution centers seem to be few . They are still re 皿 aining at the inland pQsitions . We had a opportunity to hear a view on the distribution systems . Gathering some informa − tions of transportation system , we investigate the distribution syste 皿 and find out a great dea ユ of merits , that is , cheap distribution fee and small transportation ton ・ km when the distribu − tion centers are shifted from the existing inland places to a wharf zone .


The Northwest Africa (NWA) upwelling region is located along the Senegalese and Mauritanian coast, between 10°N and 25°N and in a very narrow longitudinal band. In this region, most of the upwelled waters are due to alongshore surface winds through Ekman pumping.

The rapid increase in the upper ocean upwelling in this region along the 20th century and the contradictions found about future projections put forward the need for a better understanding of model’s ability to simulate Ekman induced upwelling processes.

In this work we assess intermodel variability to better understand the causes of different responses and spread among a set of CMIIP5 models.

Results suggest that the seasonal cycle of NWA upwelling is qualitatively well simulated by CMIP5 models, although models tend to show strong biases for the permanent upwelling latitudes (north of 20°N) and the seasonal upwelling area (around 15°N in boreal spring). The maximum vertical temperature gradient shown by CMIP5 models is higher than that of SODA reanalysis and prevents cold waters from deeper layers to reach the surface, thus making coastal upwelling less effective in affecting sea surface temperatures.

Most of the intermodel variance is explained by the two first EOF modes of intermodel variability. The first mode shows a latitudinal structure, with a maximum in the permanent upwelling season, while. the second one is more seasonal. Both modes are very related to changes in the North-West Africa land-sea surface pressure gradient. In the case of the leading mode, incoming solar radiation differences between the North African desert and the ocean are the cause of the pressure gradients. For the second mode pressure changes in the Atlantic Ocean are driven by ITCZ shifts in response to interhemispheric differential warming.


The investigation on overall collapsing accident of a low span steel truss roof under snow loads was carried out,and the whole process and reasons of the steel truss roof were analyzed in the paper.Discussing the factors,such as design,construction and structural treatment' s affects,which can decrease the bearing capacity of steel roof member and trusses,the methods and measures of resolving or preventing such accidents were provided.It can also provide a reference for the similar projects.