Process metrics can reflect the software development process and the code changes which are the main causes of defects. So, recently, the researches have put more emphasis on process metrics in the field of software defect prediction. For evolving projects, it is more meaningful to study whether the software module introduces or eliminates defects or not, not whether the software module is defective or defect-free. However, no such work is available in the literature focusing on the change of defect state. Discovering the factors that influence the change of defect state in the process of software development can help us to understand the causes of software defects and improve the quality of subsequent software versions. Therefore, this paper presents an extensive empirical study on which process metrics are significantly important to change of defects in evolving projects. Five process metrics of 37 versions in 12 software projects are collected. We not only analyze the class correlation values and the classification performance values among five process metrics, but also perform statistical analysis to verify whether the experimental results are of practical value. The experimental results indicate that Number of Distinct Committers plays a significantly important role in the change of defect state, especially for elimination of defects, and Number of Revisions is the second, whereas Degree of Code Modification is the last. In addition, Average Number of Modified Lines is superior to Number of Modified Lines. Based on the experimental results, some suggestions for software development and software defect prediction are also discussed.


The marigold flower was used to extract photoactivited pesticide α-terthienyl with chloroform,and the α-terthienyl extracted was measured with gas chromatography.Through orthogonal experiments the influence on the yield of α-terthienyl by factors such as the ratio of material to solvent,extracting time and temperature was studied.The experiment showed that the optimal condition is that the ratio of material to solvent is 1:20,the extracting time is 5 h and the extracting tempreture is 85℃,and the the yield of α-terthienyl reached 1.5042%.The extracts in optimal condition could inhibit the growth of penicillium,coliform and bacillus subtilis.and the inhibitory rate was 2.99%,2.43% and 4.18% after 48h.The minimum inhibition concentration of extracts was 15%,and the concentration of α-terthienyl was 0.38%.


It is clear that in order to reduce cardiac mortality in dialysis patients high-quality epidemiological information is critically required. This information is needed (a) to identify the most important, reversible risk factors for the overall cardiac mortality and the different types of cardiac disease in dialysis patients, ( b ) to determine the natural history of the various types of cardiac disease in dialysis patients, and (c) to assess the impact of "uremic" factors on the genesis and prognosis of cardiac disease. Intervention studies should be and can be undertaken in dialysis patients in six major areas: hypertension, LV hypertrophy, dilated cardiomyopathy, hyperlipidemia, anemia, and dialysis therapy. Then we will begin to know whether cardiac mortality can be reduced.


This Essay explores whether the African Court of Human and People's Rights' (African Court) Registry and Legal Division have a similar expansive role in the dispute settlement mechanism as the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Secretariat. The African Court is the African Union's regional body for enforcing human rights. This Essay contributes to the scholarship on African international courts by testing the central arguments in Pauwelyn and Pelc's "Who Guards the 'Guardians of the System'? The Role of the Secretariat in WTO Dispute Settlement"1 through a comparative analysis of the role of the Secretariat within the African Court.2 Despite the growing jurisprudence and influence of Africa's international courts, they continue to be neglected by mainstream scholarship of international courts and tribunals. This is evident in Pauwelyn and Pelc's article, which does not refer to any of Africa's seven international courts and tribunals. For that matter, the article makes no reference to any international tribunal outside Europe or the United States.3 Our analysis illustrates the fact that the influence of the African Court's Registry and Legal Division (Registry) in the process for dispute settlement is not as significant and concerning as that of the WTO Secretariat. As such, the influence of the Registry on the outcome of a case is significantly limited and does not raise any legitimacy crisis like the WTO. We attribute this disparity to the operational and structural disparities between the African Court and the WTO. In the following paragraphs, we examine each of the factors that Pauwelyn and Pelc raise concerning the influence of the WTO staff in WTO panel and Appellate Body proceedings4 in the context of the functions of the African Court Registry.


Synthetic P. falciparum peptides were evaluated as tools in epidemiological investigations of malaria. Plasma IgM and IgG antibody reactivities against synthetic peptides covering sequences of glutamate‐rich protein (GLURP) and acidic‐basic repeat antigen (ABRA) were measured by ELISA in individuals from malaria‐endemic areas of Sudan, Indonesia and The Gambia to study antibody responses to these peptides in donors living in areas of different malaria endemicity. IgG and IgM reactivities to the peptides increased with malaria endemicity, although there were no differences in reactivities to the GLURP peptide between non‐exposed donors and donors living in areas of low malaria endemicity. IgG reactivities to the GLURP peptide in Sudanese adults were high one month after treatment in all adults tested, while IgG reactivities to the ABRA peptide were infrequent. IgM responses to the peptides tested were shortlived in most patients. In Gambian children with malaria, IgM reactivities but not IgG antibody reactivities against the ABRA peptide were higher in those with mild malaria than in those with severe malaria. The peptides may be useful in future epidemiological studies, especially in areas of low malaria endemicity.


The use of mechanical restraint in British psychiatry is seen as unethical. A different view, however, is held in the United States. The article reviews the literature on the use of mechanical restraint and describes the case-history of a patient in a Special Hospital who poses exceptional difficulties in management and for whom mechanical restraint may prove helpful.


Abstract Metal structures covered by refractories are widely employed in high temperature processes such as incineration and metal production. The thermal resistance in refractories used in high temperature processes is associated with different phases, phase boundaries and porosity in the refractory and with the thermal contact resistance between the refractory and the metal interface. Here, a light flash method was used to evaluate the thermal contact resistance of the ceramic/steel interface at temperatures of 25, 100, 200, 300 and 400 °C. The material combinations studied were a commonly-used reference ceramic, Pyroceram 9606, and pressure vessel steel with oxidizing treatment at 450 and 650 °C for 50 h. Thermal resistance at a ceramic/steel interface increased significantly when a porous oxide layer was formed on the steel surface. The thermal contact resistance of the interface varied from 0.1 to 0.4 × 10−3 m2K/W, depending on the temperature and the oxidization of the steel sample.


Objective: To compare the clinical efficacy of ultra short-term effect insulin and short-term effect insulin in the treatment of type 2 diabetes by insulin pump subcutaneous infusion. Method: 70 cases of type 2 diabetes patients in our hospital from Feb. 2009 to Oct. 2012 were selected,they were randomly divided into group A and group B,with 35 cases in each group,They were treated with ultra short-term effect insulin and short-term effect insulin by insulin pump subcutaneous infusion. They were all used continuous glucose monitoring system to monitor blood glucose levels,all indexes were compared between the two groups after 4 weeks treatment. Result: FPG,2hPG and bedtime blood glucose levels of the two groups had no significant difference from that before treatment and after treatment( P 0.05),but the standard time and the dosage of insulin in group A were significantly less than that in group B( P0.01); All the indexes of the two groups of patients had no significant difference from that before treatment( P 0.05). After treatment mean blood glucose,blood glucose,blood sugar percentage standard deviation of time was less than 3.9mmoL / L in group A were significantly lower than before treatment and the same period group B( P0.05),with statistical significance. Conclusion: The ultra short-term effect insulin by subcutaneous infusion of insulin pump has good curative effect,high security in the treatment of type 2 diabetes,it is worthy of popularization and application.


The synthesis of a new series of cationic tail-end polyamphiphiles of the type, poly(ω-pyridinium alkyl methacrylate)s with various 4-substituted pyridinium bromide groups and with spacers of 8, 12, and 16 methylene units, obtained by free radical polymerization in aqueous micellar solution, is described, and the thermal and structural characteristics in the solid-state have been studied. All of the polymers show a single glass transition in the range 39−105 °C, whose value depends strongly both on the spacer length, due to internal plasticization, and on the specific nature of the pyridinium moiety, where higher Tg's can be related to greater rigidity of the pyridinium group. The polymers are all birefringent between crossed polarizers, in some cases up to their degradation temperatures. X-ray diffraction investigations indicate that they tend to self-organize into an amorphous lamellar morphology that appears to be better defined the longer the alkyl spacer and whose details depend also on the specific ...


Chikungunya, a widely spread viral disease transmitted to human beings by Aedes aegyp‐ ti, is on rise in India, Africa and Asian subcontinent since last decade. Although chemical insecticides are used at a large scale for the control of Chikungunya vector, their applica‐ tions have led to several undesirable effects including insecticide resistance, revival of pests species, appearance of secondary pests, environmental pollution, noxious hazards to human beings and non-target organisms forcing investigators to explore unconven‐ tional alternate strategies. As an environment-friendly approach, there is increased atten‐ tion to devise and adopt suitable methods to utilize wastes as value-added products to reduce the problem of environmental pollution. Consequently, the larvicidal and adult ir‐ ritant potential of hexane and petroleum ether peel extracts of three different Citrus spe‐ cies, C. limetta, C. sinensis and C. Limon, were assessed against Ae. aegypti. The results showed the larvicidal potential of all the three peels, C. limetta peel extracts exhibiting the least activity. Furthermore, hexane extracts were more effective than petroleum ether ex‐ tracts, C. sinensis peels hexane extract being most effectual (LC50, 39.51 ppm) while petro‐ leum ether peels extract of C. limon was the most effective larvicide with LC50 value of 51.25 ppm. All the extracts also exhibited significant elicit response and irritant potential against adults signifying their potential role in reduced mosquito bites and disease trans‐ mission. The qualitative phytochemical analysis of the extracts showed presence of cer‐ tain components suggesting their probable role in bioefficacy of extracts. Further studies are needed to isolate and identify the active ingredient to formulate strategies for mosqui‐ to control.


The invention provides a kit for co-separation of (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) from FFPE (formalin fixed and paraffin embedded tissues) as well as a method. The kit can be used for simultaneously extracting DNA and RNA from an FFPE sample, and has the advantages that not only can nucleic acid extraction be performed simultaneously, time is saved, and the extraction is economical and fast, but also the sample size can be saved, the problem of sample lack in a test can be solved effectively, and further, identical source of the DNA and the RNA used in study can be guaranteed. The kit and the method have the advantages that the operation is simple and direct, the repeatability is high, the yield is high, and enough DNAs and RNAs can be obtained simultaneously only through 2-5 pieces of tumor tissue sections; the obtained nucleic acids are high in purity and has no interference to follow-up detection; and compared with the common kit, the kit has remarkable advantages.


Three models each posit a sequence of developmental levels that culminate with the child's construction of the part-whole concept. Two are information-processing models of arithmetical word problem-solving performance, and the third is a model of children's counting types and thinking strategies. The three research teams make several of the same basic psychological assumptions. Nevertheless, the models offer qualitatively different explanations of similar behaviors. The models are compared in terms of detail, scope, attention to individual differences, and how they deal with qualitative change and semantic processing.


In industrial manufacturing, companies are challenged to develop and manufacture sustainable and resource saving products. Improving the energy efficiency plays a crucial role in achieving this goal. Especially the selection of manufacturing process chains for the series production of parts includes decisions that influence the energy consumption of the production at an early stage. The decisions made will predetermine the energy efficiency of the production system over several years and for thousands or millions of parts to be produced. This thesis presents a method for estimating the energy consumption of manufacturing processes and process chains during the planning and design phase. The energy consumption of two selected precision machining processes is analyzed and parameters for the prediction of the energy consumption are derived from the analysis. All energy consumers providing a direct and immediate contribution to the performance of the manufacturing process are considered. Based on the results of the analysis a concept for the structuring of energy planning data is developed that supports forecasting the energy consumption of manufacturing processes. The application of the presented method in the early stage of production planning will enable predicting the energy consumption of alternative manufacturing process chains. Thus, energy consumption can become a criterion for the planning and design of process chains.


 Abstract—Life history traits of Aphis gossypii Glover (Homoptera: Aphididae) were estimated at five constant temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 ± 0.5o C) inside Growth Chambers on a cucurbit vegetable, Laginaria siceraria. (Molina) Standl. Within each instar the development was fastest at 30 o C, with a pre-larviposition period of only one day. Estimates of the lower developmental threshold (tL), and predicted developmental time in degree days (Do ), ranged from 25.61 o D (for IV instar nymphs) to 132.90 Do (for I to IV instar nymphs). A. gossypii survived longer at 10 o C (27.2±2.2 SD days) followed by at 15o C (24.3±0.2 SD days), 20o C (18.2±1.0 SD days), 25o C (12.2±0.6 SD days) and 30 o C (12.4±0.9 SD days). Fecundity was highest at 25o C on sorghum (32.5 nymphs/female). A. gossypii achieved its maximum intrinsic rate of increase (rm = 0.322 d -1 ) at 25o C. Differences in rm values were caused primarily by differences in pattern of fecundity of A. gossypii and its survival. The variation in rm was also reflected in other lifetable parameters. Doubling time (DT) was inversely proportional to temperatures. Generation time (GT) is shortest at 25o C. Index Terms—Aphis gossypii, temperature, life history traits, Aphididae


DISPOSITIONAL MEDIATORS OF BURNOUT SYNDROME IN A SAMPLE OF DIRECT CARE STAFF EMPLOYED AT GROUP HOMES IN A MIDWESTERN STATE


ObjectiveTo observe the effect of Sanfeng Rougan Tang on the type of Ganyang Shangkang essential hypertension.Methods42 essential hypertension patients in type of Ganyang Shangkang Zhen were treated with Sanfeng Rougan Tang. The anti-hypertension medicine remained if the patient had taken. The blood pressure and symptoms of the patients was recorded before and a month after treatment.ResultsAfter treatment, the blood pressure and clinical symptoms of the patients had been significantly improved. The ratio of the blood pressure control was 95.2%, and of the primary symptoms control was 94.4%.ConclusionSanfeng Rougan Tang is effective on the type of Ganyang Shangkang essential hypertension.


This article fully describes va rious kinds of power source for ESRF,analyzes their advantage and disadvan -tage and discusses the modification direction in ESRF power source.


Summary We propose a novel image encryption method that combines the pure intensity random encoding and the digital holography technique. A phase-shifting interferometer records both phase and amplitude information of a complex object with a CCD sensor array. The encryption is performed by placing two pure intensity random masks between the image to be encrypted and an intensity recording device. Electronic decryption can be performed with fast Fresnel reconstruction procedure. Numerical simulation results show the validity of the algorithm and an optoelectronic implementation setup is also presented.


Mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) is a most serious pest, considered as a limiting factor in the cultivation of mustard crop causing 35-96% reduction in yield depending upon weather conditions. Studies were conducted on the population dynamics of mustard aphid on mustard (Brassica juncea L.) variety Varuna in relation to weather parameters (Temperature and Relative humidity) in rabi cropping season during 2015-16 at experimental field of Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (Uttar Pradesh). The natural appearance of mustard aphid was observed from 3 standard week and lasted up to 11 standard week. The study revealed that population of mustard aphid reaches its peak in 7 standard week showing significant positive correlation with maximum temperature and negative correlation with relative humidity.


This paper provides a review of the synthesis techniques that are used to produce nanostructured silicon carbide. The synthesis methods, consisting of carbothermal reduction, chemical vapor deposition, laser ablation, sol-gel and microwave heating are described. The silicon carbide properties and application are also explained. The paper then discusses the limitations of previous studies which involved complicated equipment and processes, that limit their further application and act as a barrier to further research and development in many fields.


The paper reports on the developed technique for polishing single-crystal silicon substrates using a mechanical lap. The effective substrate roughness was obtained in the spatial frequency range of 0.025-65 μm-1 at the level of 0.37 nm and 0.18 nm at a frame size on the surface of 2x2 μm2. The result obtained is comparable with the results of chemical-mechanical and dynamic polishing of single-crystal silicon wafers for microelectronics. Keywords: Surface, roughness, synchrotron radiation, polishing.


Convective turnover times, tau, are calculated for solar-type stars of the zero-age main-sequence models of VandenBerg and Poll (1989) with helium abundances = 0.22, 0.27, and 0.32 and metal abundances = 0.0169, 0.024, and 0.03. Emphasis is given to the possible dependence of turnover times on the chemical composition of a star. It is found that deviations in log tau from a mean dependence on the (B-V) color are less than + or - 0.1. Thus, the predicted shape of the log tau vs. (B-V) relation is quite robust. 15 refs.


This document is designed to outline the definition, pathogenesis, diagnostic modalities and therapeutic measures to treat antibody‐mediated rejection in children postheart transplant


This paper describes the current Indian and Australian practices of the estimation of field compaction parameters (maximum dry unit weight and optimum moisture content) based on the laboratory compaction tests, which do not consider large-size particles of the field soil samples. The study indicates that in the absence of realistic estimation procedure, some pavements have failed due to the excessive settlement. A detailed derivation of improved expressions for determining the field compaction parameters is presented. The improved expressions would be useful for the pavements and earthworks and for developing the standards on the compaction tests for the field applications. INTRODUCTION In the laboratory, the compaction test is genemlly performed to obtain the values of compaction test parameters, namely the optimum moisture content and the maximum d1y unit weight, which arc required for achieving maximum densification of the soil in field with a given compaction energy per unit volume of the soil. In most compaction test procedures, depending on the size of the compaction mould, a fraction of the soil sample having pmticle size larger than a specific value, say d0, is discarded. For example, in the standard Proctor compaction test, the soil pmticlcs coarser than 19 mm m·e discm·ded before compacting soil in the standard laboratory compaction mould [1-4]. If the fraction removed is significant, the laboratmy optimum moisture content and the maximum dry unit weight determined fOr the remaining soil are not directly comparable with the field values. This paper describes the current Indian and Australian practices of the estimation of field compaction parameters based on the laboratory compaction tests. Additionally a detailed derivation of improved expressions for determining the field compaction parameters is presented for the field applications. CUIUlliNT PRACTICES IN INDIA AND AUSTRALIA The pavement subbase and base materials consist of natural sand, moorum, gravel, crushed stone, or a combination thereof depending upon the grading required as per the field requirements. Materials like cmshed slag, crushed concrete, brick and kankar are also used as subbase and base materials, especially in rural roads. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of the Government of India recommends three gradings of subbase materials with soil particle size vmying fi:om less than 75 11m to 75 mm [5]. The compaction of subbase/base materials is recommended to be done by rollers; the ro11ing should be continued till the dry unit weight achieved is at least 98% of the maximum dry unit weight for the material determined as per I:S2720 (Part 8) [2]. It is impmtant to note that IS2720 (Part 8) [2] does not allow particles larger than 19 mm. It is stated that the removal of small amounts of particles (up to 5%) retained on the 19 mm sieve will affect the density only by amounts comparable with the experimental error involved in measuring the maxinmm dry unit weight. However, the exclusion of a lmge propmtion of particles coarser than 19 mm may have a major effect on the unit weight and the optimum moisture content obtained compared with that obtainable with field soil as a whole. There is at present no generally accepted method of test calculation for dealing with this difficulty in compming Iaboratmy compaction test results with those obtained in field. For soils containing larger proportions of particles larger than 19 mm, but up to 37.5 mrn, the use of a bigger mould (2250 ml) may avoid major errors. According the Australian Practice [3-4], the laboratory compaction is conducted over a range of moisture content to establish the maximum mass of dry soil per unit volume achievable for a standard compactive effort (596/2703 kJ/m) and its corresponding moisture content. The compaction procedure is applicable to that pmtion of a soil that passes the 37.5 mm sieve. Soil that passes the 19 mm sieve is compacted in a 105 mm diameter compaction mould. Soil that contains more than 20% of material retained on the 19 mm sieve is compacted in a 152 mm diameter mould. Cmrections fbr oversize material (not more than 20% of material, on a wet basis, retained on the 37.5 mm sieve) are made in accordance with ASI222.214.171.124-2007 [6]. The field maximum dry unit weight and iield moisture content are calculated from the following equations [6]: _I =(1-p)+_E_ YJF YJL GcYw (I)


Health claims permitted on food supplements exclusively targeting children are limited to child-specific health claims authorised under EU rules. Food supplements placed on the Irish market are required to be notified to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. In this study the labels of food supplements exclusively targeting children notified during two time periods were examined for compliance with rules on health claims. Food supplements notified between 1 June 2010 and 31 May 2011 (time period A, n1996) and 1 June 2012 and 31 May 2013 (time period B, n1493) were assessed to identify those that exclusively targeted children. Major breaches were defined as use of 1) health claims not authorised for children, and 2) non-authorised health claims. Minor breaches were defined as authorised childspecific claims which 1) exaggerated the health benefit, 2) related the health benefit to the product per se and not the specific nutrient for which the claim was authorised, and 3) referred to a nutrient not present in the required amount. Of the 1996 products notified in time period A, 456 included children in the target group. Of these, 56 were identified as targeting children exclusively, and the majority (73% n41) bore claims (n278). Of the 1493 products notified in time period B, 343 included children in the target group. Of these 103 were identified as targeting children exclusively and the majority (55% n57) bore claims (n259). In both time periods most products bore more than one claim. The proportions (%) of products in time period A and time period B that exclusively targeted children, and the health claims appearing on these that were compliant with, or in breach of, health claim rules, were compared – see table.


Cleft of lip and palate is one of the most common congenital defects with a multifactorial etiology. Several skeletal, dental and soft tissue defects accompany this malformation. These may have psychological and sociological implications. Functions such as suckling, swallowing, speech, and hearing may be impaired, while facial disfigurement and malocclusion is usually present. A multidisciplinary approach is usually required for such cases which rehabilitates the patient right from few weeks after birth. These involve skeletal and dental correction restoring function and esthetics. One of such procedures involves protraction of maxilla, which is carried out during mixed dentition phase, to improve the disfigurement and to correct the developing malocclusion. This case report presents improvement in esthetics of the patient by maxillary protraction using face mask, thereby restoring occlusion and function, and probably avoiding surgical advancement of maxilla in future.


The current round of capital globalization has encouraged the growth and expansion of international education during recent years.However,while experiencing rapid development,international education can hardly avoid the inherent problem of western modernity and has been instrumentalized into"commercial product"to a great extent.International education worships the global market,ignores value commitment of education and the educational sovereignty of a nation,and seldom reflects on its elite nature.Dominated by instrumentalism,the"international spirit"of international education has been fading and even becomes a publicity stunt.In order to protect the educational and public nature and the ideological safety of international education in the globalization trend,we must maintain our rationale and autonomy and take a critical stance toward global capitalism and neo-liberalism.More importantly,we should be clear about the nature of international education in terms of protecting its market dominance and protecting the interests of those who monopolize the market.


To explore the characteristics of magnetic resonance (MR)imaging of the rat mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs)labeled with superparamagnetic iron oxide(SPIO)using 1.5 TMR scanner. The 5th generation cells which were labeled with SPIO (28 mg/L) with different quantities were scaned with T1WISE, T2WIFSE,and T2*WIFGR using 1.5 TMR ,then the changes of signal strengthes of cells labeled with different scanning sequences were measured. The results showed that the labeling rates of cells was 92%, and the cell viability was 97%. MR imaging demonstrated that with the increasing of cells quantity,the signal of labeled cells manifested the tendency of linearity decreasing. MSCs labeled with SPIO can be sensitively demonstrated by the MR imaging.


The principles of construction of Reed-Solomon codes are examined. Analysis of the basic parameters of the codes was perfomed. Comprehensive assessment of correcting abilities of the code along with the information efficiency is made. Performed a comparison of efficiency of Reed-Solomon codes in telecommunication networks compared to binary codes which have equivalent parameters.


A method to disperse cellulose-containing fiber material dyed or printed using the aqueous composition comprising a water-soluble polyester resin, a water-soluble or water-dispersible or water-dispersible acrylate binder treating the fibrous material, having a sufficient overall durability to produce uniform dyeings and prints, and advantageously adapted to mix cellulose-containing fibers, for example, mixed fibers of polyester and cellulose.


Knowing the prevalence of modifiable risk factors for noncommunicable diseases is the first step to plan effective public health interventions. The study aims to identify the prevalence and distribution of risk factors of non-communicable diseases (NCD) among adult Roma population in a rural community.

 Using a tool based on the WHO stepwise approach, a cross-sectional study was carried out among a sample 116 adults aged 18-85 years (52 male and 64 female), from a rural community with 800 Roma members. The study instrument included questions to record behavioral risk factors (smoking behavior, alcohol drinking, diet and physical activity and also data on anthropometry and value of blood pressure). Descriptive statistics methods were used to analyze the data.

 The smoking prevalence was 35,3% (95%CI, 27.0 to 44.3,) higher for men (49,9%, 95%CI, 36,6-63,4%) than for women (23,4%, 95%CI, 14.2-34,9), higher than the smoking prevalence recorded for Romanian population in 2017 Eurobarometer study. Prevalence of obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m[2]) was observed to be high among Roma respondents 34,48% (95% CI, 26,26 to 43,47) compared with self-reported obesity rates among adults in Romania (9%, Eurostat, EHIS 2014). The observed proportion of obesity is similar for both genders, but central obesity was lower for men compared to women (57,4% to 79.6%). There was observed a higher proportion of people declaring they eat fruits less than once on a week (25%, 95% CI, 17,7 to 37,4) and adding salt before tasting the dishes (58,6%). Most of interviewed people have a sedentary lifestyle with less than 30 minutes of physical activity per day.

 The high prevalence of risk factors for NCD in this rural Roma community indicates the likelihood of a high future burden of illness.

 There is a need for both further research into the health of Roma people regarding NCD and prevention interventions to address behavioral risk factors for NCD. Knowing the prevalence of modifiable risk factors for noncommunicable diseases is the first step to plan effective public health interventions.


A new equilibrium model is proposed to determine the equilibrium market penetration of the advanced traveler information system (ATIS) in a network with heterogeneous users and elastic demand. User heterogeneity is considered by assuming a continuously distributed value of time (VOT) across users, and demand elasticity is considered by using a deterministic mode choice model for public transit and for equipped and unequipped private cars. The user equilibrium of mode choices for a given ATIS service charge, transit fare, and frequency is so determined that no one can reduce his or her generalized travel cost by changing to an alternative travel mode according to his or her own VOT. Furthermore, assuming provision of ATIS and transit services by competitive profit-maximizing firms, the market equilibrium is studied using game theory by determining each firm's service charge and service quality and its resultant market shares. Through numerical simulation, the benefits generated from a given combination of service charges and service qualities to transit and road users, transit and ATIS service providers, and society as a whole are investigated.


SUMMARY This paper deals with a problem where a robot identifies an object that a human asks it to bring by voice when there is a set of objects that the human and the robot can see. When the robot knows the requested object, it must identify the object and when it does not know the object, it must say it does not. This paper presents a new method for discriminat- ing unknown objects from known objects using object images and human speech. It uses a confidence measure that integrates image recognition con- fidences and speech recognition confidences based on logistic regression.


Papers pp 1350, 1351

Study of the relation between human body size and cancer risk has its origins in both human observational studies and animal experiments. In his late 19th century treatise Air, Food, and Exercises based on observations in England and continental Europe Rabagliatti concluded, "Overfeeding is the predisposing cause of cancer."1Since then the restriction of total energy intake has been shown over decades of research to be one of the most powerful nutritional interventions capable of lowering cancer rates in laboratory animals—and the only factor known actually to increase lifespan in these same systems. 2 3Such rodent experiments resulted in lighter, leaner animals—that is, with decreased body weight and adiposity—and in many instances, depending on the timing of the energy restriction, stunted growth and shortened overall animal length. Although lifelong dietary restriction has had the greatest impact, reduced food consumption early during development also effectively inhibits tumorigenesis.3Human data are available from epidemiological studies of the relation between energy intake, body size, and cancer rates or risk. In these, overweight and …


Plant damage by parasitic nematodes is less recognized by farmers and people working in agriculture because the symptoms of parasitic nematodes are generally non-specific, run very slowly, and often mix with symptoms by other pathogens. This study aims to determine the population density of plant parasitic nemetodes associated with several corn plantations in South Sulawesi. Sampling was carried out at several centers of corn plantations in South Sulawesi, namely Malakaji (Gowa), Bajeng (Gowa), Bontobili, Maros, and Soppeng. Nematode extraction was done by the simple modified Baerman method. The density of the plant parasitc nematode (PPN) community calculated was absolute community density, relative community density, absolute frequency, relative frequency, frequency of all nematodes, and dominance values. The highest PPN density was found in the Bontobili area with a dominance value of 47.60%. There were 8 genera of PPN that infested corn and spread to several corn plantations in South Sulawesi, namely Helicotylenchus, Pratylenchus, Longidorus, Xiphinema, Haplolaimus, Aphelencus, Tylenchus, and Meloidogyne. The results of this study can be used as a basis for monitoring pathogenic attacks on corn by farmers and other researchers


Abstract Background The era of immunotherapy changed considerably prognosis of melanoma. Nonetheless, only around 40% can get benefit from this treatment, with no biomarkers identified for the therapeutic choice. On the basis of emerging clinical evidence, increased Tumor Mutational Burden (TMB) may be associated with higher sensitivity to immunotherapeutic agents. Methods The aim of this study was to analyze in advanced melanoma the relationship between the mutation load and: i) the histologic characteristics, ii) locations according to sun exposure and iii) response to PD-1 inhibitors, in advanced melanoma patients, in a retrospective multicentric analysis by sequencing using FoundationOne®. TMB was characterized as the number of somatic protein-coding base substitution or alterations mutations per megabase (Mb). DNA was extracted from paraffin embedded sections of primary tumor or metastasis. TMB was considered low between 1 and 5 muts/Mb, intermediate between 6 and 19, high if > 20 muts/Mb. Results In five centers in France, we included between October 2017 and March 2019 101 patients, aged from 16-year to 92-year-old, with metastatic melanomas. Results were available for 89 cases (12% DNA extraction failure). Acral (n = 6, 20%), mucosal (n = 5, 17%) and uveal melanoma (n = 4, 13%) had a lower TMB compared to sun-exposed melanomas. No melanoma of non-sun-exposed areas had high burden (n = 0); intermediate TMB was found in 21% (n = 8) and low TMB in 63% of cases (n = 19). Conversely, melanoma on chronic exposed areas (face and neck) had high TMB (5/7 cases; 71%). Complete and partial remission after 3 months of anti-PD-1 were more often observed in TMB high patients (n = 4;20%) whereas in low and intermediate mutational patients, progression was found in respectively 62% (n = 24) and 53% (n = 16). Conclusions TMB is affected by a variety of causes, including ultraviolet light in melanoma and smoking in lung cancer. Desmoplastic melanomas have been reported to have a high prevalence of somatic mutations whereas mucosal and acral have a 5-to 10-fold lower. Our study highlights the importance of TMB with higher response to PD-1 blockade. While it has to be confirmed, sun exposed areas or UV-signature may in be a valuable criterion in helping clinical decision-making. Editorial acknowledgement Foundation One Medicine and Roche Laboratories. Legal entity responsible for the study French hospitals. Funding Has not received any funding. Disclosure C. Allayous: Travel / Accommodation / Expenses: BMS; Travel / Accommodation / Expenses: Roche; Travel / Accommodation / Expenses: Amgen. All other authors have declared no conflicts of interest.


Silicon has been recognized as one of the most promising anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical specific capacity and similar working voltage as the lithium anode. However, there are some unavoidable drawbacks including volume expansion effects, low conductivity, the constant formation of SEI during lithiation and delithiation contributes to its fewer possibilities for commercialization. Therefore, modification of silicon for better performance is required for future applications. This review demonstrates recent progress and development of modification for the silicon-based anode including silicon-carbon composite with yolk-shell structure, nanostructured silicon, and alloying method. Finally, the existing problems and future improvements are also discussed based on current development.


From an interdisciplinary perspective, an explorative discussion is made of the potential influence of natural sciences, particularly, biology and physiology, on the formation of Zhou Zuoren's outlook on life. An elaboration is made on his scientific truth-seeking spirit and cognitive methods reflected in his observation of human life and social problems.


In this paper, we propose the integration of local interpolation on compressive sampling (CS) for application on internet traffic reconstruction. CS managed to solve the problem of missing Internet traffic but not in the case of extreme missing like Missing Elements at Random (MER) and Combine Missing Patterns (CMP). To overcome the problem is done by merging between local interpolations with CS. In this study conducted a comparison of local interpolation using correlation method and Euclidean norm and tested the effect of similarity parameters between rows and similarity between columns. The simulation results show that the incorporation of local interpolation can improve accuracy with insignificant time increments, mainly on the addition of Euclidean norm technique.


This investigation considered the impact of alternative problem domains on choice by crossing prospect frame (loss vs. gain) witth problem domain (threat vs. opportunity) in afactorial design. In responding to traditional framing problems, proble-msposing explicit threats), subjects faced with gain prospects have generally been thought to presuppose losses or shift their reference point downward. Abelson and Levi have suggested that, similarly, subjects might be expected to presuppose gains or shift their reference point upward when faced with problems that pose explicit opportunities. Choices in this study were consistent with this prediction. However, measures aimed at assessing the interpretations of framing problems did not support the presumed shifts in reference point. Moreover, evidence was found for a problem domain effect on overall risk seeking in one problem arena (obs), but no such effect was found in another problem arena (money).


Cat-scratch disease,or benignlymphoreticulosis,is characterized bylympho-adenitis with a history ofcat-scratch.Evidences of cat-scratch mayoften be found on the skin of most patients.Many complications are associated with thisdisease.The authors encountered a patient


Now a day's transmission of image and video data is gradually increasing. Compression of image data with acceptable image quality is the objective of this paper. To achieve higher Compression Ratio combination of halftone and Kekre's Fast Codebook Generation (KFCG) Vector Quantization algorithm is used. For Vector Quantization KFCG algorithm is used to reduce time and memory space. Half toning technique is used in printing industry which is lossy and gives one bit image, hence to achieve higher Compression Ratio 8:1. To reduce the computational complexity Small half toning operator is used. Codebook of different sizes 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 and 256 and pixel group of 2X2 size is used in this paper. Different bit map images of size 512x512 are used. For reconstruction of image Fast Inverse Half toning algorithm is used. To measure image quality measuring parameters like Mean Square Error (MSE), Peak Signal-to-Noise ratio (PSNR) and Structure Similarity Index (SSIM) are used. This is the proposed combination of compression technique to fulfill the objectives of video data streaming with low bit rate transmission which is the major constraint as well as to store of large number of half tone images for printing in encoded form.


E-learning is becoming the new method of audio video in education,and taking the important role in distance education step by step.The university library working for teaching and research as information service institution is needed to provide teaching function.This article introduces the meaning of e-learning,discusses the feasibility of the e-learning teaching environment in university library and provides the mode of the e-learning teaching environment in university library.


With Stochastic Frontier Approach(SFA),the paper evaluates the financial expenditure efficiencies of provincial governments and analyzes the key determinants of the financial expenditure efficiency.The analysis is applied to a balanced panel of 26 provincial governments over the periods from 1978 to 2008.The results show that:(1) Governments in central China had more efficient financial expenditure than the governments in eastern and western regions of China;(2) The fiscal decentralization reform in 1994 do improved provincial governments' financial expenditure efficiencies dramatically in China,but the efficiencies dropped gradually after 1994;(3) The local financial autonomy,the per capita GDP and the per capita budget revenues had a significant negative impact on provincial governments' financial expenditure efficiencies,the population density had a significant positive impact on provincial governments' financial expenditure efficiencies yet.


We have, for the first time, experimentally quantified random dopant distribution (RDD) induced V, standard deviation up to 40 mV for 20 nm-gate planar CMOS. Discrete dopants have been statistically positioned in the 3D channel region to examine associated carrier transportation characteristics, concurrently capturing "dopant concentration variation" and "dopant position fluctuation". As gate length further scaling down to 15 nm, the newly developed discrete-dopant scheme features an effective solution to suppress 3-sigma-edge single digit dopants induced V, variation by gate work function modulation. The extensive study may postpone the scaling limit projected for planar CMOS.


The Aim of the Article. Analysis of the current state of the problem of the dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) determination in baby food products and the development of sample preparation methods for determining these xenobiotics in food products for infants and young children. Dioxins form a group of structurally and chemically related chlorinated tricyclic oxygen-containing aromatic compounds (congeners), which includes 75 polychlorinated dibenzo-para-dioxins (PCDDs) and 135 polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). The most toxic congeners of dioxins, in which chlorine atoms along with other positions are necessarily in 2,3,7,8 positions of benzene rings. Their total number is 17:7 PCDD congeners and 10 PCDF congeners. A group of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) – chlorinated bicyclic aromatic compounds, which consists of 209 different congeners, 12 of which have a spatial and electronic structure and exhibit toxicological properties similar to dioxins, therefore, they are called dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs). In addition, when monitoring food products as a marker, a group of 6 PCBs was selected that did not exhibit dioxin-like toxicity and therefore did not belong to dioxin-like PCBs (NDL-PCBs). Thus, of the total number of 419 PCDDs, PCDFs and PCBs, only 35 are toxicologically significant, therefore, these compounds are subject to control in baby food products. To control the content of the amount of dioxins, the amount of dioxins and DL-PCBs and the amount of NDL-PCBs in foods for infants and children from one to three years in Ukraine, the maximum levels of these compounds on the basis of the order of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine No. 368 of 05/13/2013 were harmonized with the maximum allowable levels in foods for infants and young children in accordance with Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1259/2011. Methods for the analysis of dioxins and PCBs. Two instrumental analysis methods are used to determine dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in foods for baby food: 1) a combination of high-resolution (capillary) gas chromatography with high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC/MS); 2) a combination of GCHR with tandem mass spectroscopy (GC/MS/MS). High-resolution (capillary) gas chromatography is used to determine non-dioxinlike (marker) PCBs. The stage of sample preparation, including the stages of extraction and purification, is key in determining dioxins and PCBs. Conclusions. The stage of sample preparation using automatic devices (liquid extraction under pressure, an automated extract purification system) and chromatographic columns was developed to further determine the mass concentration of dioxins and PCBs in baby food products. The developed procedures using devices for the automatic extraction and purification of the obtained extracts from baby food samples will make it possible in the future to determine PCDDs/PCDFs, ortho-unsubstituted, mono-ortho-substituted and marker PCBs in one sample.


Using a highly reproducible and robust cell-based high-throughput screening (HTS) assay, the authors screened a 100,000-compound library at 14- and 114-µM compound concentration against influenza strain A/Udorn/72 (H3N2). The "hit" rates (>50% inhibition of the viral cytopathic effect) from the 14- and 114-µM screens were 0.022% and 0.38%, respectively. The hits were evaluated for their antiviral activity, cell toxicity, and selectivity in dose-response experiments. The screen at the lower concentration yielded 3 compounds, which displayed moderate activity (SI50 = 10-49). Intriguingly, the screen at the higher concentration revealed several additional hits. Two of these hits were highly active with an SI50 > 50. Time of addition experiments revealed 1 compound that inhibited early and 4 other compounds that inhibited late in the virus life cycle, suggesting they affect entry and replication, respectively. The active compounds represent several different classes of molecules such as carboxanilides, 1-benzoyl-3-arylthioureas, sulfonamides, and benzothiazinones, which have not been previously identified as having antiviral/anti-influenza activity. (Journal of Biomolecular Screening 2008:879-887)


Background: World data shows that depression has a 50% higher percentage to accur in women due to hormonal, genetic, psychosocial and social stress changes. World data also shows that 13% of postpartum women experience depression. In developing countries, postpartum depression was high, which is at 19.8%. One of the risk factors that influence the occurrence of postpartum depression is unplanned pregnancy. This study aims to estimate the magnitude of the effect of unplanned pregnancy on postpartum depression based on a number of previous similar studies. Subjects and Method: This was a systematic review and meta-analysis. The articles used in this study were obtained from several databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Springer Link. The articles used in this research were articles published from 2005-2020. The article search was carried out by considering the eligibility criteria defined using PICO. The population in this study included postpartum mothers with intervention, namely unplanned pregnancy, the comparison namely planned pregnancy and the outcome was postpartum depression. The keywords to look for articles were: "unplanned Pregnancy" AND "postpartum depression OR" postnatal depression" "unplanned pregnancy" AND "postpartum depression" AND "adjusted odds ratio". The articles included in this study were full text articles with an observational study design. Articles were collected using PRISMA flow diagrams. Articles were analyzed using the Review Manager 5.3 application. Results: There are 17 articles reviewed in this study. Meta-analysis of 4 cohort studies show that unplanned pregnancy increased the risk of postpartum depression (aOR= 1.27; 95% CI= 1.09 to 1.47; p <0.001). A meta-analysis of 13 cross-sectional studies show that unplanned pregnancy increased the risk of postpartum depression (aOR= 2.28; 95% CI= 1.67 to 3.12; p <0.001). Conclusion: An unplanned pregnancy increases the risk of postpartum depression. Keywords: Unplanned pregnancy, postpartum depression, postnatal depression Correspondence:  Dinda Anindita Salsabilla. Masters Program in Public Health, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Jl. Ir. Sutami 36A, Surakarta 57126, Ccentral Java. Email: email@example.com. Journal of Maternal and Child Health (2020), 05(05): 500-513 https://doi.org/10.26911/thejmch.2020.05.05.05.


ABSTRACT We present a theoretical study of the electric behaviour of a ferroelectric liquid crystal (FLC) doped with ferroelectric nanoparticles (FNPs). According to the recent reports on industrial developments based on liquid crystal materials, FLCs are increasingly used not only in displays but also in preparing new materials with unconventional properties. In this work, we focus on the anomalies caused by the nanoparticles on ordering behaviour, dielectric permittivity, and polarization of the system, as well as the pre-transitional effects near the Isotropic-Smectic A (I-SmA) phase transition. We obtain the polarization of a nano-doped system under an applied electric field and discuss the influence of the concentration of nanoparticles on the phase transition for both isotropic and mesomorphic phases. The calculations are based on the phenomenological Landau theory. Our results show weak induced orientational order in the isotropic phase of the I-SmA phase transition. Considering the Kerr effect in the nano-doped system under the influence of macroscopic polarization, we find that the FNPs significantly affect such induced orientational behaviour. Our results confirm a pre-transitional anomaly of dielectric permittivity for the I-SmA phase transition. The strong influence of nanoparticles on the pre-transitional behaviour in both isotropic and mesomorphic phases is also revealed. Graphical abstract Schematic illustration of SmA liquid crystal in the (a) absence, and (b) presence of the external electric field


This study aimed to determine the assessment of the ability to wash hands for students with intellectual disabilities. We used a qualitative method with literature study activities and field studies (interviews, observations, and documentation). The results showed that the assessment of the ability to wash hands for students with intellectual disabilities was carried out in stages, namely making assessment instruments, determining subjects, preparing the necessary equipment, conducting assessments, and analyzing data from the assessment results. The activity of assessing the ability to wash hands for students with intellectual disabilities has the aim of knowing the weaknesses, strengths, and potential of students in the ability to wash hands. It is hoped that the results of this assessment can be used as a basis for making hand-washing learning programs for students with special needs, especially students with intellectual disabilities.


Abstract: The CXC chemokine interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) has profound hematopoietic activities following systemic administration. It induces the rapid mobilization of cells with lymphomyeloid repopulating ability in mice and of hematopoietic progenitor cells in monkeys. In this paper, evidence is presented that stem cell mobilization in mice requires the functional expression on the β2‐integrin leukocyte function‐associated antigen‐1 (LFA‐1). In monkeys, systemic injection of IL‐8 is followed by a significant increase in the circulating levels of the matrix metallo proteinase gelatinase‐B (MMP‐9). Based on these findings, the hypothesis is discussed that mature neutrophils serve as intermediate cells in IL‐8‐induced stem cell mobilization by the release of proteinases.


In order to save footprints of elevated road and ramp and improve the overall traffic elevated road feature, a design steel viaduct of looping bi-directional traffic is proposed. The lane next to the side is set to ramp up and down; in order to reduce the interference of double-enter and surface transportation, a dual entrance is proposed to import and export of even and odd numbers distinguish, increase the distance of the entrance to balance traffic load, reducing the 50% blocking probability and ramp construction. Another scenario is that upper and lower layer design loop of one-way traffic, balance the city's traffic load, the combination of multiple loops for one-way traffic dual relationship; perfect double connection traffic and intersections, constitute a complete transportation network. Cities can set the cycle double traffic trunk road network. Steel viaduct for environmentally friendly buildings, can migrate more suitable for future development of old town.


A practical definition of site effect, that accounts for both the seismological and engineering point of view, is the one given by Field7: "the unique behavior of a site, relative to other sites, that persists given all (or most) of the potential sources of earthquake ground motion in the region". This definition implicitly indicates the difficulties connected with a correct estimate (or prediction) of the site effect. We estimate theoretical site responses adopting several techniques and using different seismic motion types. Our results confirm that the identification of the site behavior with a set of resonance frequencies can be a very difficult task, especially when the amplification levels seem to be "azimuthally" dependent. We show that the adoption of simplified models can lead to misleading conclusions concerning the seismic response of sedimentary basins. The results suggest that, in order to perform an accurate estimate of the site effects in complicated geometries, it is necessary to make a parametric study that takes into account the complex combination of the source and propagation factors.


Perfluorotriethylamine is a good alternative reaction medium for Lewis acid catalyzed reactions and it can be easily recycled by simple extractive workup.


The present invention relates to a lightweight rear bumper (100) with crash worthy compartment comprising a bumper and characterized by: a bumper beam (10) coupled to the inner side of the bumper for absorbing impact energy from the bumper and evenly distributed the impact energy along the bumper beam (10); a pair of crash housing (11) coupled to the bumper beam (11) for further absorbing the impact energy from the bumper beam (10); an impact absorbing means (12) embedded in the pair of crash housing (11) for further absorbing the impact energy from the pair of crash housing (11); a plurality of vertical ribs (13) arranged along the bumper beam (10) for strengthening the bumper beam (10).


Construction Schedule Acceleration (CSA) can affect not just the time but many other project aspects. During a CSA, there can be many impacts having significant effects on the project value. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of considering quality, productivity and functionality at a CSA along with cost and time. The aim of this research is, therefore, to investigate how value can be optimised during a CSA process. A qualitative research approach was adopted. Altogether, ten semi-structured interviews were conducted. The interview data were transcribed and analysed using a manually performed content analysis. This study has revealed types of CSA based on the purpose (delay minimising purpose or non-delay minimising purpose) and the party who initiates it. Cost, quality, functionality, productivity and profitability were identified as main value considerations during a CSA other than time. Applicability of value management (VM) job plan stages and Earned Value Management (EVM) indicators during different CSA stages to optimise value were also found. Finally, these findings were mapped in a framework to show how VM and EVM concepts could be used in enhancing value during a CSA. The framework conceptualises the relationship between "value" and CSA and how it varies upon distinct parties of a construction project during different stages and types of CSA. The proposed framework can be used as a guidance for optimising the value during the stages of a CSA.


[Objective]To understand the living conditions of the leprosy recovery patients in the west of Guangdong province and the cognition of the surrounding villagers toward them and the affecting factors.[Methods]Conduct a questionnaire survey among 53 leprosy recovery patients in five recovery villages in western Guangdong province and other 154 villagers in the surrounding villages from July to August in 2010.[Results]83.02% of the leprosy recovery patients of their age were above 60.69.81% of them received RMB 200-299 yuan from the government.84.91% of them could take care of themselves.24.53% have nobody to take care of them when being sick and everyone of them wished to have a better life in the future.58.44% of the surrounding villagers were not aware of the existence of the leprosy recovery village,40.26% said they knew thew are a crowd of disability recovery patients,70.13% said they kneow the leprosy recovery patients need helpsurvey,26.90% said that they did not feel afraird when seeing patients,42.86% said that if they were the families of the leprosy recovery patients,they were willing to take them home.[Conclusion]The leprosy recovery patients in western Guangdong are living at a low level of life,poor medical conditions.Lack of medical knowledge of leprosy publicity in surrounding rural areas.


Amidst the millions of pages available on the Web, it contains an invaluable educational resources pool for planning episodes of learning approach for instructions and guided learning. The un-structured nature and the lack of suitably annotated materials make retrieving the relevant learning contents that meet different pedagogical needs a difficult and time-consuming task. In this paper, we propose a framework as well as the design of a Personalized Instruction planner (PIP) that searches and annotates potentially useful learning content. Our approach is based on an ontology-driven and incremental approach to the annotation of educational content using the multi-agents infrastructure of a Personalized Education System (PES). The PIP which is a subsystem of the PES is composed of three software agents whose roles is to search, retrieve and classify potentially useful learning objects for personalized education guided by multiple ontologies that taxonomize subject domain, instructional design or pedagogy and content.


The aim of this study was to characterize the stress level in sport horses subjected to exercise by measuring the cortisol concentration in their saliva. The experiment was conducted on 5 groups of horses (49 animals): one control and four groups undergoing different types of exercises. The saliva samples were collected 3 × a day: late at night (between 20:00 and 23:00 h), early in the morning (between 5:00 and 8:00 h) and directly after the exercise. The concentration of cortisol was measured by the enzyme-immunoassay programme. The highest cortisol concentration was observed for the horses participating in 3-day events (8.93 nmol/dm3), whereas in the control group it was only 0.28 nmol/dm3. When compared to the cortisol concentration of other horse groups, this suggests that the stress level as measured by the cortisol concentration in saliva increases with increasing exercise intensity and its duration. The obtained results do not confirm the existence of a day rhythm of the cortisol concentration in horses. Moreover, the results may help in choosing the appropriate system of training and in improving horse welfare during competitions. Effort, equestrian disciplines, stress, sport horses Stress is related to biochemical reactions leading to the formation of substances that are commonly described as indicators of the stress level. These indicators are responsible for the restoration of homeostasis. One of the main substances that indicate stress level is cortisol which is a natural glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. Cortisol has many general as well as metabolic functions, including a significant influence on the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. The concentration of cortisol depends on the natural circadian rhythm, which can be disturbed by physical as well as mental stress. The cortisol concentration in blood serum is the highest between 6:00 and 8:00 h and the lowest between 23:00 and 4.00 h (Hoff is et al.1970; Lindner et al. 1990). However, cortisol concentration can increase even ten-fold as a result of stress (Ślebodzinski 1979; Hartwig 1989). Cortisol can be found not only in the blood serum but also in other body fluids including body excrements (Most l and Palme 2002). Cortisol secretion and its concentration in plasma depend strictly on adrenocorticotrophin which significantly increases when the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated especially under stress or in inflammatory states. Its catabolic function leads to an increase in the turnover of skeleton muscle protein. It does this by stimulating the disintegration and slowing down the synthesis, which can result in losing muscle tissue. Catabolic function also boosts the glucose production from the amino acids coming from protein disintegration. Cortisol can enhance and prolong the effects of other hormones including the adrenergic ones. However, the determination of cortisol concentration in animal serum is not always possible and taking blood samples causes additional stress. For this reason, easier and less invasive methods have been invented that make use of saliva, urine and faeces. ACTA VET. BRNO 2011, 80: 101–105; doi:10.2754/avb201180010101 Address for correspondence: Katarzyna Strzelec Department of Horse Breeding and Use Faculty of Animal Biology and Breeding University of Life Science in Lublin, Akademicka 13 20-950 Lublin, Poland Phone: +4881 445 65 75 Fax: +4881 533 37 52 E-mail: email@example.com http://www.vfu.cz/acta-vet/actavet.htm The most effective way of determining cortisol concentration in animals seems to be by using their saliva. This is because taking saliva samples is a rather simple, non-invasive and low-stress procedure (Aardal and Holm 1995). Moreover, the rate of balancing the cortisol concentration in saliva and blood is rapid: the whole process takes less than 5 min. For these reasons, determining the level of cortisol using saliva is a more advantageous way of examining the adrenal cortex functions than using blood serum (Vining et al. 1983). Therefore, the saliva testing is selected as the method of choice for sport horses. Such horses must often undergo testing during their competition periods in stressful conditions. Their saliva sampling is convenient as it does not require any special treatment and the samples can be stored at room temperature for up to 7 days (Aadral and Holm 1995; Clements and Parker 1998). Sport horses are used in a variety of sport disciplines which require different preliminary physical work and exercise during competition, and hence impose different stress intensities. These disciplines can be grouped by how intense the work is, for example: dressage, endurance, show jumping, three day event and races. However, we need a relationship between such different stress intensities and the cortisol concentration in horse saliva. The aim of this study, therefore, is to estimate the intensity of the stress level in sport horses as a function of exercise intensity by measuring the cortisol concentration in their saliva. Materials and Methods This study was based on 5 groups of horses (n = 49) doing different types of exercise. The first group was the control group of 10 horses (5 of the Malopolska breed, 3 of the Polish noble half breed, 1 Wielkopolska breed and 1 pony) aged from 4 to 20 years. The control group of horses spent time in the paddock doing no special exercise. The second group of 9 horses (4 of the Malopolska breed, 3 of the Polish noble half breed, 1 Wielkopolska breed and 1 pony) aged from 4 to 16 years was exposed to light exercise (walk, trot) for 4 to 6 h a day. The other three groups (each of 10 animals) represented different disciplines such as dressage, show jumping and three days events. Within each group there were animals of different breeds but approximately the same age (5 years). These 3 groups took part in the 2008 Polish Horses Championships For Young Horses in Ksiąz, Łąck and Bialy Bor. Their saliva samples were collected 3 × a day: late at night (between 20:00 and 23:00 h), early in the morning (between 5:00 and 8:00 h) and right after the exercise. In the control group the samples were collected four times a day. All the saliva samples were collected with a small piece of sponge (2 cm × 2 cm) soaked in 1% acetic acid and dried at room temperature (as described by Pel l and McGreevy 1999). Using metal tweezers, the sponge was inserted into the horse's mouth and rubbed against the animal's tongue, inner cheeks and palate. The sponge soaked in saliva was then placed in a centrifugation tube. Each tube had a 2 cm long piece of plastic straw preventing the sponge from touching the bottom of the tube and absorbing the saliva during the centrifugation. Next, all the samples were frozen. This allowed their storage in an unchanged physical and biological state. Before examination the sample was melted, warmed up to room temperature and centrifuged in MPW 211 at 500 × g for 15 min at room temperature. Next, the sponge and the straw were removed and the saliva was transferred to Eppendorf test tubes. The coritsol level measurement was conducted with the enzyme-immunoassay using the CORTISOL EIA kit (for saliva) DSL_10-67100 made by Diagnostic System Laboratories Inc., USA. The absorbance level measurement was conducted at 450 and 620 nm wavelength using a Multiscan reader (Labsystems, Helsinki) equipped with a GENESIS V 3.00 programme. The results were expressed in nmol/dm3. Statistical analysis The cortisol concentration determinations were duplicated. The results were processed using a STATISTICA 6.0 package based on the one-way analysis of variance. The differences between the group averages and the circadian rhythm data within each group were estimated from Fischer's LSD. Results and Discussion The control group of horses was not under the influence of any stress factors that could significantly change the cortisol concentration in their saliva. This was confirmed by all the data taken at different times of the day (20:00 h, 7:00 h, 17:00 h, 22:00 h), namely the mean cortisol concentration usually did not exceed 0.45 nmol/dm3 (Table 1) and for the majority 102


Perfluorinated thin cation-exchanger films fixed with sulfonic acid group were prepared by plasma polymerization of trifluoromethanesulfonic acid and hexafluoropropylene. The influence of polymerization pressure on their structural changes was focused. FT-IR and ESCA measurements indicated that the decomposition of sulfonic acid group was remarkable under low polymerization pressure conditions. The higher the pressure, the more the decomposition was suppressed and the more the sulfonic acid group was introduced. The plasma polymer formed at polymerization pressure as high as 0.5 Torr was about 1 μm thick and free from pinhole, and gave an ionic conductivity of 1.8×10−4 S cm−1 and a K+ transference number was as big as 0.99 in an aqueous KCl solution showing a high cation perm-selectivity.


The Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) is a combinatorial optimization problem of great importance which continues to interest several researchers in order to develop methods to achieve an optimal solution. Genetic algorithms (GAs) as meta-heuristic methods have been widely applied to this problem. Inspired by biological phenomena, we introduce two immigration operators, random immigration and structured memory immigration, forming two different algorithms. The performance of these algorithms is evaluated using benchmark datasets of symmetric TSP from TSPLIB library. The results of the proposed algorithms are compared with the standard genetic algorithm showing that the proposed algorithms improve the performance of GA in solving TSP problem effectively and specifically with the developed structured memory immigration.


During a decade, there are many researches on microfactory which is the miniature, flexible, and efficient manufacturing system for the micro/meso scale machining device. Moreover many micro machine tool has developed in Japan, U.S., Europe, and Korea. Already we developed a 3-axis micro milling machine with 300×200×320 ㎜³ machine size for microfactory. In this study, we introduce the design of a high speed spindle system with air bearings for our micro milling machine. Desired operation speed range of the spindle system is 100,000 ~ 150,000 rpm. In design step, we have consideration for minimum critical speed, compliance, and weight construction of the spindle system. The shaft length, the shaft outer diameter, bearing positions and bearing stiffness were set as the design values. After the final design of spindle model, we carried out dynamic analysis a spindle system for a micro milling machine by using ADROS, which is our own developed S/W for dynamic design analysis of rotor systems. As the result, we designed a spindle system having the critical speed above the operating speed.


Resource saving moulding processes for investment casting have been developed. The processes are an alternative to ethyl silicate and silicate system moulding. They enable to improve physical and mechanical properties of ceramic moulds in investment casting. As a result, the quality and economic efficiency of manufacturing precision castings of heat resisting nickel alloys are improved.


Long term cadaveric preservation represents a medical challenge, considering the toxicological consequences of formaldehyde in the environment and personal health status; stiffness of the tissues increases the difficulty of their manipulation in medical school and teaching hospitals. In recent years a new method of long-term preservation has emerged; it was proposed by Walter Thiel, known as Thiel Soft-fix method; it uses low concentrations of formaldehyde, also avoiding tissue stiffness for longer periods. In this review, we analyze the features of Thiel Soft-Fix method for long-term preservation of cadaver and tissues. Keywords: Embalming, Preservation, Thiel Soft-Fix method


Objective To raise the rate of prevention and cure of pressure ulcers and minimize the occurrence rate of pressure ulcer.Method The following measures were taken:establishing a scientific system of management,setting up management measures to prevent pressure ulcers,carrying out reporting system for inevitable pressure ulcers,strengthening process management and enhancing the power of examination.Result This practice raised the ability of nursing and consciousness of prevention of pressure ulcer,and reduced the occurrence rate of pressure ulcer.Conclusion To strengthen the process management and power of examination, guarantee the fulfillment of rules is the key point and effective means to prevent pressure ulcer, which is very important to improve the quality of nursing.


Osteomyelitis caused by methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilm infection is difficult to eradicate and can even be life‐threatening. Given that the infection is persistent and deep‐seated in the bone tissue, controlled and efficient treatment of osteomyelitis remains challenging. Herein, an activatable nanostructure (Au/TNT@PG) is presented for synergistic sonodynamic‐catalytic therapy of MRSA‐infected osteomyelitis. The Au/TNT@PG backbone is obtained by conjugating a guanidinium‐rich polymer (PG), a component that penetrates the biofilm matrix, onto ultrasound (US)‐absorbing gold‐doped titanate nanotubes (Au/TNTs). Under deep‐penetrating US irradiation, the nanocomposite generates 1O2 for sonodynamic therapy and catalyzes the decomposition of endogenous H2O2 into toxic •OH in the acidic infection microenvironment for catalytic therapy, leading to bacterial cell death. Its robust antibacterial effectiveness is attributable to its bacteria‐capturing ability, the biofilm penetrability of positively charged guanidinium, and the subsequent synergistic effect of sonodynamic‐catalytic action of Au/TNT. Such a remotely controlled approach potentiates the polarization of macrophages to M2‐type while suppressing the M1‐type, leading to topical inflammation resolution and enhanced osteoblast proliferation and differentiation to inhibit bone loss. Therefore, this study provides a generic nanotherapeutic approach for efficient sonodynamic‐catalytic therapy with respect to osteomyelitis.


Research indicates a main contributor of injury in older adults is from falling. The decline in sensory systems limits information needed to successfully maneuver through the environment. The objective of this study was to determine if prolonged exposure to the realignment of perceptual-motor systems increases adaptability of balance, and if balance confidence improves after training. A total of 16 older adults between ages 65-85 were randomized to a control group (walking on a treadmill while viewing a static visual scene) and an experimental group (walking on a treadmill while viewing a rotating visual scene). Prior to visual exposure, participants completed six trials of walking through a soft foamed obstacle course. Participants came in twice a week for 4 weeks to complete training of walking on a treadmill and viewing the visual scene for 20 minutes each session. Participants completed the obstacle course after training and four weeks later. Average time, penalty, and Activity Balance Confidence Scale scores were computed for both groups across testing times. The older adults who trained, significantly improved their time through the obstacle course F (2, 28) = 9.41, p 0.05. Although the training group improved mobility through the obstacle course, there were no differences between the groups in balance confidence.


The invention relates to a filigree cotton core-spun yarn and a manufacturing method of the filigree cotton core-spun yarn. The filigree cotton core-spun yarn comprises a core-spun yarn, wherein a core yarn of the core-spun yarn is a coated wire consisting of filigrees and elastic polyamide yarns, cotton fiber coats the outside of the core yarn to form the core-spun yarn, and the core-spun yarn and dyed cotton yarns are subjected to plying and two-for-one twisting to form the filigree cotton core-spun yarn. The manufacturing method comprises the following steps that 1, a coating machine is used for combining the filigrees and the elastic polyamide yarns, and the sequentially formed coated yarn is used as the core yarn; 2, a ring spinning core-spun spinning frame is used for coating the cotton fiber obtained in the first step to form the core-spun yarn; 3, the dyed cotton fiber is subjected to carding and spinning operation; 4, the core-spun yarn obtained in the second step and the cotton fiber obtained in the third step are subjected to plying and two-for-one twisting by a plying machine and a two-for-one twister, and the filigree cotton core-spun yarn is formed. The filigree cotton core-spun yarn and the manufacturing method of the filigree cotton core-spun yarn have the advantages that the wearing feeling is comfortable, and the appearance is attractive.


In this paper we present a 2μW temperature compensated on-chip digitally controlled oscillator and a 70nW uncompensated, ultra low power oscillator. The temperature compensated oscillator has a temperature stability of 8ppm/C while uncompensated oscillator has a stability of 4%/C. The uncompensated oscillator is calibrated using stable oscillator often to achieve high effective temperature stability. This combination gives us a stability of 8ppm/C @ 250nW if temperature changes by 1C every second. A calibration scheme for the oscillator is also presented.


Description of two groups of Alcoholics Anonymous includes data on the relationship between attendance during a 4-month period and abstinence at 6-month and 30-month follow-up studies.


The ultrafine Co:ZnS/CoS2 heterostructure nanowires with high hydrogen evolution performance by one-step hydrothermal method. The overpotential required to reach a current density of 10 mAcm−2 was only 78 mV in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution, and the Tafel slope was 56 mV dec−1.


This article considers changing the purposes of education held by pre-service teachers. It argues that purposes of education are inextricably linked to life meanings and purposes. Employing an existential perspective, mainly through Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Sartre and Morris, the fundamental beliefs that one has regarding the meaning and purpose of life are understood to serve as the basis for formulating purposes of education. An attempt to change these purposes is recommended by drawing upon the existential crisis and Kierkegaard's doctrine of 'how'. Importance is placed not so much on the object or whatof purposes and understandings, but on how the individual relates to them.


Abstract Three recent range extensions for the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia, veined rapa whelk (Rapana venosa) population are described. These extensions into Tangier Sound, the mid James River estuary, and to Cape Henry at the Bay mouth extend respectively, the northern, western, and southeastern boundaries of the occupied rapa whelk range in Virginia waters. Salinity and tidal circulation mediate the distribution of adults and larvae of this animal. During dry years (e.g., 2001 and 2002) adult rapa whelks may move up-estuary in western tributaries like the James River, given increased salinity and available habitat and food resources. Declines in salinities (or return to normal salinities) will either kill the rapa whelks in the upriver habitats or force a return to downstream habitats.


Hardware implementations of elementary functions regularly de-ploy piecewise polynomial approximations. This work determines the complete design space of piecewise polynomial approximations meeting a given accuracy specification. Knowledge of this design space determines the minimum number of regions required to approximate the function accurately enough and facilitates the generation of optimized hardware which is competitive against the state of the art. Designers can explore the space of feasible architec-tures without needing to validate their choices. A heuristic based decision procedure is proposed to generate optimal ASIC hard-ware designs. Targeting alternative hardware technologies simply requires a modified decision procedure to explore the space. We highlight the difficulty in choosing an optimal number of regions to approximate the function with, as this is input width dependent.


The preparation of ternary boride hard alloy cladding layer on steel substrate is studied. Using Mo, Fe metal powders, and FeB alloy powders as raw materials, NaF, C, PVB as additives, the ternary boride hard alloy cladding material on ZG-45 casting-steel substrate is prepared by casting-infiltration reaction sintering process. The metallographic system of hard alloy cladding material is studied by metallographic microscope and the microstructure and element distribution in cladding material is analyzed by SEM-EDS. The analysis of the component on the casting-infiltration stratum indicates that it has realized the pervasion and the infiltration at the place of the coalescent interphase. There has formed favorable metallurgy coalescent between the ternary boride cermet cladding and the steel. The mechanism of casting-infiltration reaction sintering process is discussed also.


The key power customers intelligent management system for Zhengdong new district,is one of subprojects of the urban and rural integration marketing cooperative demonstration project receiving significant attentions from Henan electric power corporation in 2011.According to the ideas of customer relationship management,the project divides key customers into fine-grained categories,and provides the differentiation management and personalized services for each category.Using the above approach,it aims at enhancing the management and improving the service level for key customers.


Werner von Hausen met Emile Bernard in Cairo in 1895, in Laren (Netherlands) in 1906, and again in Paris in 1906–1908. Evidence of these encounters is found in portraits, press articles and in the artists' correspondence. These scattered fragments contain hitherto unknown biographical elements and make it possible to reconstruct a major influence on the artistic production and thought of the Finnish painter. Werner von Hausen thus turns out to be a protagonist of Antimodernism in Finland, a classical painter and author of memoirs, reviews and a manifesto defending a vision of art that did not conform to the expectations of his time.


The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is one of the most commonly utilized flaps of reconstructive surgery. Although the horizontal flap design is the most commonly used, this flap can be vertically designed to avoid drawbacks such as excessive tissue dissection, relatively reduced flap perfusion, and scarification of the contralateral flap opportunity. The aim of this report is to present our case series for foot and ankle reconstruction with vertical designed DIEP flap.


Negotiating shared tracks with freight rail may not be an easy task, but Tri-Rail County Rail Authority in Pompano Beach, Florida is providing an example of how it can be done. The article shows the negotiations that had to be conducted to succeed. Linda Bohlinger, the executive director of Tri-Rail and the architect of the success, believes that federal authorities see Tri-Rail as a sort of test bed for track sharing, as the successful joint agreement she negotiated with corridor users provides a basis for federal testing of advanced signaling to allow higher speeds.


On the basis of macroscopic analysis of supply-demand situation of iron ore resources at home and abroad,this paper summarized the quantity,distribution features and supply-demand situation of iron ore resources in Anhui Province,put forward suggestion of prioritizing development of the resources in the Huoqiu,Lu-Zong and Maanshan areas,enhancing development,improving ore output,mitigating the current short supply situation,reducing reliance on overseas supply and raising bargaining position.


Because excessive application of N fertilizer for crop production leads to environmental pollution and low N utility efficiency, a better understanding of the effects of N application rates on crop yields and NO 3 -N leaching is required for developing optimum ecological N management that reduces NO 3 -N leaching while keeping crop yield. Field experiments at two sites in the Taihu region of China were conducted to study the ecologically optimum application of N in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) season of rice (Oryza sativa L.)-wheat cropping system. The experiment at either site had five N rates on wheat (0-360 kg N ha -1 in 90-kg increments) and NO 3 -N in leachate were collected by wedge-shaped fiberglass wick lysimeters. At either site, the N-wheat yield quadratic response curve was fitted quite well and a significantly linear relationship between N rates and seasonal NO 3 -N masses in leachate was also found. The calculated economically optimum N rate for wheat was more site related than depending on' changing growing conditions from year to year, while the ecologically optimum N rate was significantly different both at sites and growing conditions (P = 0.01). The results suggest that applying the ecologically optimum N rates of 120-180 kg N ha -1 to wheat is beneficial for maximally reducing NO 3 -N leaching loss but minimally decreasing yield.


A system-on-a-chip baseband processor for full duplex digital communication applications is proposed. The SoC employs three 16-bit digital signal processors (DSPs), one in transmitter path and two in the receiver path. Hardware coprocessors are integrated for on chip digital down conversion, de-spreading and Viterbi decoding to give hardware acceleration in data processing. The DSP processors can be configured through software for different standards and protocols. Standard asynchronous UART interface is provided on chip for program development and debugging. Computer simulation results indicate an improvement in performance obtained when a moderately performing DSP is used as the processing engine


Yan Fu holds that poverty is the biggest disaster in China in the early 20th century. This understanding is geared to actual circumstances. His views such as the economic rights of railway and mines by businessmen, importing foreign capital, policy of the stateowned railways, are beneficial to speed up developing national economy. He predictes that reckless issuing of copper coin will lead to various harm, this thinking occupies an important place in the modern history of currency thoughts.


The effect of how often clustering patterns change within a previously proposed rotating clustering scheme on the average achievable downlink rates of a coordinated heterogeneous multicell multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system is investigated in this paper. Rotating the base station cluster patterns allows users to be nearer the cluster center in at least one of the patterns. Faster cluster rotation results in users being nearer the center more often. The performance of the system with different cluster rotation rates is evaluated, using a simulated annealing user scheduling algorithm with a proportionally fair metric. Simulations demonstrate there is a maximum speed of rotation, above which negligible further gains in performance are achieved compared to fixed clustering.


We present a linear study of the radiative instability driven by synchrotron emission in astrophysical plasmas. The novelty in this work is to consider the case of a non-Maxwellian distribution function and follow its time evolution consistently. We find unstable filamentation modes for any value of the spectral index, with increasing growth rate going from steep to flat spectra, provided that the plasma β is larger than unity. We discuss our results in the context of the formation of the filamentary structures observed in jets and lobes of extended radio sources


Relevance of studying of statehood and modernization concepts in Russia at the turn of the century is caused by requirement to create adequate «answers» to «calls» of the West European and North American civilization in a context of implementation of post-industrial transit of the Russian civilization from a concept of «catching-up» modernization to modernization of «national and sovereign type», based on the accounting of state and national interests and civilization specifics.


Three types of high pass filter are used for cut-off in electrical roughness testers employed in Japan. Namely, type a and b in which the cut-off value is assessed at 70 % of maximum transmission in the system, having the straight part of the attenuation curve which the maximum slope of 6 dB per octave and 12 dB per octave, respectively, and type c in which it is assessed at 50 % of maximum transmission in the system, having the straight part of the attenuation curve with the maximum slope of 12 dB per octave.In this paper, the difference between the value of center line average Ha obtained by roughness testers with the filter of type a and c are discussed in comparison with Hrms values which are obtained from the power spectrum of three samples.The Hrms (0.75) values of the roughness curve obtained by roughness testers with the filter of type a, type b and type c, which have the same cut-off value of 0.75 mm, are 8595% of Hrms values calculated from the profile curve of the samples.


Feature fusion can effectively improve the steganographic detection capability, but the previous researches of feature fusion in JPEG image steganography detection rarely considered the nonlinear correlation of features. This paper analyzes the correlation of JPEG image steganographic features and fuses features with lowest correlation to obtain better detection capability based on KCCA (Kernel canonical correlation analysis), which has a good ability of nonlinear correlation analysis and can eliminate the redundancy of information between features. Firstly, analyze the "DCT extended feature" and the "markov reduced feature" which are classic features, and the newly proposed "DCT adaptive feature" in 2011. Secondly, select two features with lowest correlation among them for KCCA feature fusion. Finally, carry out experimental contrasts with other related methods. The experimental results show that the proposed method is reasonable and effective.


The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) is the next-generation pulsed neutron source to be built in the United States. The accelerator chosen to produce the 2 MW beam power on the neutron-producing target is an H− linear accelerator (linac) to 1 GeV, followed by a proton accumulator ring. The ring compresses the 1 ms long beam bunches from the linac to less than 1 μs. The linac is pulsed at 60 Hz with a 6% duty factor. Stringent control of the pulse structure and stability of the high-intensity H− beam is needed to minimize beam loss in the linac and to optimize injection into the accumulator ring. This requires a set of beam diagnostics that can operate at high peak currents (∼52 mA) with high sensitivity and minimum beam interception.


AbstractRecently, a mesh-size insensitive structural stress definition that provides a stress state at weld toe with relatively larger mesh size compared to conven tional approaches has been proposed. The structural stress definition is based on the elem entary structural mechanics theory and provides an effective measure of a stress state in front of weld toe. In this study, as an experimental validation of structural st ress method in obtaining the fatigue strength of weldments, a series of fatigue test has carried out for longi-web connections, which are representative of ship-like structures. Based on the result from this study, it is expected to develop a more precise fatigue strength evaluation technique and to reduce time and cost associated with the fatigue design of ship and offshore structures. ※Keywords: Fatigue strength assessment(피로강도평가), Structural stress(구조응력), Weld toe (용접 토우부), Longi-web connection(종횡부재 연결부) 접수일:2007년 7월 11일, 승인일 2007년 12월 23일✝교신저자: firstname.lastname@example.com, 051-510-2345


Rice varieties and seed management involve a complex system dealing with various problems such as variety adoption, agro-biodiversity conservation, and quality seed supply. A participatory modeling experiment on rainfed lowland rice variety and seed management in lower northeast Thailand has been launched to better understand the system and its problems. Conceptual modeling was done through inter-institutional research team meetings, stakeholder analysis, surveying of stratified randomly sampled farmers and seed supply agents in Ubon Ratchathani Province, and by conceiving and using role-playing games (RPGs) with stakeholders. The system to be analyzed was divided into three subsystems, i.e. farmers' decision making regarding the choice of rice varieties, farmers' management of rice seeds, and the seed supply sub-system. A first RPG focusing on the first two subsystems was used with 25 farmers in two different gaming sessions. Observations and findings from the RPG helped to validate and to improve the conceptual model prepared by the research team. It also builds a shared understanding of farmers' rice varieties and seed management. Limited access to information about varieties and seeds, the need for early maturing varieties, and the scarcity of quality seeds were identified as current constraints of the system. A second RPG representing the seed supply subsystem is being conceived. Later on, a multi-agent system model of the whole system will also be developed and used to simulate scenarios identified by stakeholders and to discuss their results to facilitate collective learning and improvement of the current situation. (Resume d'auteur)


Clusters are aggregates of atoms and molecules which are held together by all types of binding force ranging from weak van der Waals and hydrogen bon ding to strong metallic, covalent and ionic forces [1], What make them so attractive for many investigators in dif ferent fields, are their unique properties — between those of isolated molecules and bulk condensed matter. It is hoped that their detailed study will improve our understanding of the transition from one to the other with all the implications such as the development of the conti nuous band structure of the solid out of the discrete spectrum of the molecules, and the change in the absorption of ra diation or chemical reactivity as a func tion of cluster size. In addition, these systems allow us to make a systematic microscopic investigation of important macroscopic phenomena such as nu cleation, solvation, and adsorption with many technological applications ranging from catalysis to photography. Theoretical studies show that clusters of small size do not exhibit the structure of the bulk. Typical van der Waals clusters consist of close-packed icosahedral structures of five-fold symmetry with stable configurations at n = 13,55,... and only at very large cluster sizes around n = 1000 is the transition to the face centred cubic structure of the solid found. For metal clusters, one finds geometrical structures with a preferred stability of n = 8,20,... This result can be explained by a theoretical treatment which is quite familiar in physics: the shell model. For metal clusters the delo calized electrons, are embedded in uni form distributions of positive charges, thus combining the rounded potential well of nuclear physics with the jellium of condensed matter physics [2], Unfortunately, the experimental tools are not so well developed for carrying out the corresponding ideal experi ments: the measurement of any desired property of a cluster whose structure is


A distinction is made between stenosis of the vesical cervix and a layered stricture. No aetiological parameter is certain. Besides uroflow, miction cystourethrography (MCU is of diagnostic importance. The aim of treatment is to restore a urodynamically active elastic posterior urethra. TUR and sphincterotomy are the methods of choice.


The loss in October 1744 of the First Rate flagship the Victory gave birth to one of the most enduring mysteries in British maritime history: how could the greatest warship of the Early Georgian age of sail, manned by up to 1,100 people and armed with 100 bronze guns, simply vanish? Reports of extensive wreckage washed onto the Channel Islands confirmed by an Admiralty search and rescue mission, inspired a conviction that the Victory collided with the black rocks of the Caskets and was lost off Alderney. An enquiry held by Trinity House subsequently investigated claims that the keeper of the Casket lighthouse failed to keep its lights burning and was the main cause of the flagship's loss. This paper presents the historical evidence underlying the myth of the Caskets sinking and the testimony for the alleged inattentiveness of the lighthouse keeper. Odyssey Marine Exploration's discovery of the physical wreck in April 2008, 100km west of Alderney, finally resolved the mystery and revealed the Caskets theory to have been based on a chain of incorrect presumptions.