The soft-attention mechanism is regarded as one of the representative methods for image captioning. Based on the end-to-end convolutional neural network (CNN)-long short term memory (LSTM) framework, the soft-attention mechanism attempts to link the semantic representation in text (i.e., captioning) with relevant visual information in the image for the first time. Motivated by this approach, several state-of-the-art attention methods are proposed. However, due to the constraints of CNN architecture, the given image is only segmented to the fixed-resolution grid at a coarse level. The visual feature extracted from each grid indiscriminately fuses all inside objects and/or their portions. There is no semantic link between grid cells. In addition, the large area "stuff" (e.g., the sky or a beach) cannot be represented using the current methods. To address these problems, this paper proposes a new model based on the fully convolutional network (FCN)-LSTM framework, which can generate an attention map at a fine-grained grid-wise resolution. Moreover, the visual feature of each grid cell is contributed only by the principal object. By adopting the grid-wise labels (i.e., semantic segmentation), the visual representations of different grid cells are correlated to each other. With the ability to attend to large area "stuff," our method can further summarize an additional semantic context from semantic labels. This method can provide comprehensive context information to the language LSTM decoder. In this way, a mechanism of fine-grained and semantic-guided visual attention is created, which can accurately link the relevant visual information with each semantic meaning inside the text. Demonstrated by three experiments including both qualitative and quantitative analyses, our model can generate captions of high quality, specifically high levels of accuracy, completeness, and diversity. Moreover, our model significantly outperforms all other methods that use VGG-based CNN encoders without fine-tuning.


Data from 30 studies of the magnitude of gender differences in science achievement previously examined in two separate reviews were synthesized using modern methods for meta-analysis. Two meta-analysis methodologies were used: analyses of effect sizes (standardized mean differences) and vote-counting estimation procedures. Analyses revealed that magnitudes of gender differences in science achievement varied according to the subject matter under study. Males showed significant advantages in studies of biology, general science, and physics, but significant differences were not found for studies of mixed science content, and geology and earth sciences, or in a single study of chemistry. However, in all cases the numbers of effects examining each subject-matter area were quite small (seven or less). Also, studies which had focused on gender differences evidenced larger gender differences than other studies. Other possible predictors of the magnitudes of gender differences, such as grade level of the subjects and test length, did not account for significant amounts of variation among these study outcomes. Consequently, they also did not provide as strong an explanation of the patterns of gender differences as did subject matter and focus on gender.


OBJECTIVE: To assess convergent validity of the stopwatch urine stream interruption test (UST). Specific aims were to describe relationships among stopwatch UST scores and 4 common clinical indices of pelvic floor muscle strength: 24-hour urine leakage, confidence in performing pelvic muscle exercise, 24-hour pad count, and daily pelvic muscle exercise count. DESIGN: Secondary analysis; instrumentation study. METHODS: The final sample consisted of baseline stopwatch UST scores and measurements of comparison variables from 47 participants in a randomized clinical trial of 3 approaches to pelvic floor training for patients with urinary incontinence following radical prostatectomy. The sample size provided 80% power to detect correlations of moderate strength or higher. The stopwatch UST was conducted in an examination room at the study site by trained study personnel (MP, ADC, JP, SM). Measurements of comparison variables were obtained from 3 instruments: 24-hour pad test, Broome Pelvic Muscle Self-Efficacy Scale, and 3-day bladder diary. Relationships among study variables were evaluated with Pearson correlation coefficients. RESULTS: Stopwatch UST scores were moderately correlated with 24-hour urine leakage on the 24-hour pad test (r = 0.35, P < .05), the most robust comparison measure. Correlations between stopwatch UST scores and all other comparison measures were in the appropriate direction, although weak, and did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that the stopwatch UST may be a valid index of pelvic floor muscle strength in men following radical prostatectomy. With further testing, the stopwatch UST could become a valuable clinical tool for assessing pelvic floor muscle strength in radical prostatectomy patients with urinary incontinence.


SUMMARY If 150 years of continued use counts as a sustainability indicator, the river-bank agroforests in the peat landscapes of Central Kalimantan suggest solutions for current challenges. The 2015 fire season in Indonesian peatlands triggered a fire ban and peatland restoration response, prioritizing canal blocking and rewetting. However, sustainable livelihood options remain elusive. We report local ecological knowledge of soils and vegetation applied in land use choices in swiddens and agroforests in five Dayak Ngaju villages in Jabiren Raya and Kahayan Hilir subdistrict (Pulang Pisau, C. Kalimantan, Indonesia) on the banks of the Kahayan river and discuss impacts of fire-ban policies. Plots accessible from the river with no or shallow peat were traditionally preferred for swiddening, with various indicator plants and soil characteristics underpinning the choices. Without swiddening farmers depend on off-farm jobs and agroforests for income. More policy attention for non-peat riparian-zone agroforestry as part of peat landscape livelihood systems is warranted. HIGHLIGHTS Dayak Ngaju villagers have traditionally combined agroforest and swidden/fallow rotations on riverbanks and shallow peat. Rich ethnobotanical knowledge, local soil quality indicators and ceremonies reflect long-term presence in this landscape. The 2015 fire ban has effectively stopped local rice cultivation as technical alternatives are not attractive. The agroforests, with durian and rubber as marketed products, continue to support livelihoods, but are not sufficient. Temporary jobs on canal blocking for the peatland restoration agency have filled the gap, but are not expected to last.


Abutilon indicum belongs to the family Malvaceae is known as Indian mallow commonly. The plant was traditionally claimed to possess many medicinal properties and was used in folklore and traditional system s of medicine like Ayurveda. It contains various chemical constituents like (cid:977)lavonoids, phe-nols, sterols, tannins etc. and was scienti(cid:977)ically investigated for many activities like an immune stimulant, dieresis, anti-epileptic, anti-ulcer and anti-parasitic activities. This article reviews the research work that was performed on the plant to publish its phytochemistry, Pharmacognosy and Pharmacological pro(cid:977)ile of the plant.


Composite membranes have been prepared by impregnation of Nafion into the expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (EPTFE) matrix. Nafion loading in the composite membranes was kept constant at 2 mg/cm2. The lower amount of electrolyte per unit area in the composite membranes offers cost advantages compared to conventional membrane of 50 μm thickness with an electrolyte loading of ~9 mg/cm2. Composite membranes (30 μm thickness) were found to have higher thermal stability and mechanical strength compared to the conventional membranes (50 μm thickness). The performance of the membrane electrode assembly made with these composite membranes was comparable to that of the conventional membranes. Single cells fabricated from these MEAs were tested for their performance and durability before scaling them up for large area. The performance of a 20-cell stack of active area 330 cm2 fabricated using these membranes is reported.


abstract Average upper crustal shear-wave velocities ( V ¯ s ) near Oroville, California, have been determined from S -wave arrivals on timed, strong-motion accelerograms of eight aftershocks of the Oroville earthquake (August 1, 1975; M L = 5.7) at twelve sites. The value of V ¯ s to depths of 8 to 10 km is approximately 3.3 km/sec along paths to sites located on or near crystalline basement but decreases systematically at sites across the contact with Great Valley sediments. The average S -wave velocity in this sedimentary column, which varies in thickness from 0 to approximately 600 m thickness in the instrumented area, is about 1 km/sec. S waves from two additional shallow aftershocks and an explosion are used to infer a two-layer structure appropriate for the bedrock sites, consisting of a 2-km thick layer with v s = 2.9 km/sec overlying material with v s = 3.65 km/sec. With the use of one or two trigger times as P waves, well-recorded events can be located within 2 to 3 km of the USGS locations with S -wave arrivals taken from the strong-motion accelerograms.


A negatively-charged nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center in diamond is a promising system for quantum computation and quantum information. It has the diamond structure with a substitutional nitrogen atom and a neighboring vacancy. An electron spin in the NV center has an exceptionally long coherence time at room temperature. Thus the NV center has a potential to realize a room-temperature quantum computer which is more efficient than a classical computer. In this dissertation, we focus on the nitrogen nuclear spin as well as the electron spin in the NV center. Every NV center has the nitrogen nuclear spin. Because of the long coherence time of the nitrogen nuclear spin, it is a good candidate for a quantum memory. Thus it is important to prepare the nitrogen nuclear spin qubit in a given pure state for quantum computation. We provide a theoretical understanding of the popular nuclear spin initialization technique. Furthermore, we propose an optimal condition for the initialization of the nitrogen nuclear spin by including the local strain in the NV center. We expect that this optimal condition can improve the purity of the nuclear spin initialization. We also propose an efficient quantum measurement protocol for the hyperfine interaction between the electron spin and the ¹⁵N nuclear spin in the NV center. A precise knowledge of the hyperfine interaction is important to reduce an error in a coherent control of the ¹⁵N nuclear spin. In this protocol, a sequence of quantum operations with successively increasing duration is utilized to estimate the hyperfine interaction with successively higher precision approaching the quantum metrology limit. Unlike common quantum metrological methods, this protocol does not need the preparation of the nuclear spin in a pure state. In the presence of realistic operation errors and electron spin decoherence, we show the overall precision of our protocol still surpasses the standard quantum limit


Asian dust or yellow sand events in East Asia are a major issue of environmental contamination and human health, causing increasing concern. A high amount of dust particles, especially called as particulate matter 10 (PM10), is transported by the wind from the arid and semi-arid tracks to the Korean peninsula, bringing a bacterial population that alters the terrestrial and atmospheric microbial communities. In this study, we aimed to explore the bacterial populations of Asian dust samples collected during November–December 2014. The dust samples were collected using the impinger method, and the hypervariable regions of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified using PCR followed by pyrosequencing. Analysis of the sequencing data were performed using Mothur software. The data showed that the number of operational taxonomic units and diversity index during Asian dust events were higher than those during non-Asian dust events. At the phylum level, the proportions of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes were different between Asian dust and non-Asian dust samples. At the genus level, the proportions of the genus Bacillus (6.9%), Arthrobacter (3.6%), Blastocatella (2%), Planomicrobium (1.4%) were increased during Asian dust compared to those in non-Asian dust samples. This study showed that the significant relationship between bacterial populations of Asian dust samples and non-Asian dust samples in Korea, which could significantly affect the microbial population in the environment.


In the spirit of Germain the most general objective stored elastic energy for a second gradient material is deduced using a literature result of Fortuné & Vallée. Linear isotropic constitutive relations for stress and hyperstress in terms of strain and strain-gradient are then obtained proving that these materials are characterized by seven elastic moduli and generalizing previous studies by Toupin, Mindlin and Sokolowski. Using a suitable decomposition of the strain-gradient, it is found a necessary and sufficient condition, to be verified by the elastic moduli, assuring positive definiteness of the stored elastic energy. The problem of warping in linear torsion of a prismatic second gradient cylinder is formulated, thus obtaining a possible measurement procedure for one of the second gradient elastic moduli.


Wide natural gradients of soil nitrogen (N) can be used to examine fundamental relationships between plant-soil-microbial N cycling and hydrologic N loss, and to test N-saturation theory as a general framework for understanding ecosystem N dynamics. We characterized plant production, N uptake and return in litterfall, soil gross and net N mineralization rates, and hydrologic N losses of nine Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) forests across a wide soil N gradient in the Oregon Coast Range (U.S.A.). Surface mineral soil N (0-10 cm) ranged nearly three-fold from 0.29% to 0.78% N, and in contrast to predictions of N-saturation theory, was linearly related to 10-fold variation in net N mineralization, from 8 to 82 kg N.ha(-1) x yr(-1). Net N mineralization was unrelated to soil C:N, soil texture, precipitation, and temperature differences among sites. Net nitrification was negatively related to soil pH, and accounted for <20% of net N mineralization at low-N sites, increasing to 85-100% of net N mineralization at intermediate- and high-N sites. The ratio of net: gross N mineralization and nitrification increased along the gradient, indicating progressive saturation of microbial N demands at high soil N. Aboveground N uptake by plants increased asymptotically with net N mineralization to a peak of approximately 35 kg N.ha(-1) x yr(-1). Aboveground net primary production per unit net N mineralization varied inversely with soil N, suggesting progressive saturation of plant N demands at high soil N. Hydrologic N losses were dominated by dissolved organic N at low-N sites, with increased nitrate loss causing a shift to dominance by nitrate at high-N sites, particularly where net nitrification exceeded plant N demands. With the exception of N mineralization patterns, our results broadly support the application of the N-saturation model developed from studies of anthropogenic N deposition to understand N cycling and saturation of plant and microbial sinks along natural soil N gradients. This convergence of behavior in unpolluted and polluted forest N cycles suggests that where future reductions in deposition to polluted sites do occur, symptoms of N saturation are most likely to persist where soil N content remains elevated.


This is a comprehensive history of the art patronage of the Medici family during the 15th century. It establishes for the first time ever, the origin of the Medici name and their coats of arms. Through the use of their individual arms, patronage is redistributed to the rightful patron in disagreement with many writers of Renaissance art history, from Vasari to the present. The various branches of the Medici bank are traced from their beginnings to their culmination in the historical international bank of the 15th century. Illustrations include nine Medici coats of arms, four hundred and ninety-five Florentine coats of arms in color, and sixty-five plates of the Medici with their arms and personal emblems in conjunction with their art patronage.


Today's computers are based on irreversible logic devices, which have been known to be fundamentally energy-inefficient for several decades. Recently, alternative reversible logic technologies have improved rapidly, and are now becoming practical.
In traditional models of computation, pure reversibility seems to decrease overall computational efficiency; I provide a proof to this effect. However, traditional models ignore important physical constraints on information processing.
This thesis gives the first analysis demonstrating that in a realistic model of computation that accounts for thermodynamic issues, as well as other physical constraints, the judicious use of reversible computing can strictly increase asymptotic computational efficiency, as machine sizes increase. I project real benefits for supercomputing at a large (but achievable) scale in the fairly near term. And with proposed future computing technologies, I show that reversibility will benefit computing at all scales.
Next, the thesis demonstrates that reversible computing techniques do not make computer design much more difficult. I describe how to design asymptotically efficient processors using an "adiabatic" reversible electronic logic technology that can be built with today's microprocessor fabrication processes. I describe a simple universal reversible parallel processor chip that our group recently fabricated, and a reversible instruction set for a more traditional RISC-style uniprocessor.
Finally, I describe techniques for programming reversible computers. I present a high-level language and a compiler suitable for coding efficient reversible algorithms, and I describe a variety of example algorithms, including efficient reversible sorting, searching, arithmetic, matrix, and graph algorithms. As an example application, I present a linear-time, constant-space reversible program for simulating the Schrodinger wave equation of quantum mechanics. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)


Based on TCP protocol, this paper aims at TCP flows, discusses the effects of multivariate correlation analysis on network traffic, obtains the quantitative relationship between different types of TCP packets in each time unit by correlation coefficient matrix, and finally proposes an anomaly detection and analysis method based on the correlation coefficient matrix. The experimental results show that our method can efficiently distinguish normal and abnormal traffic, and accurately detect and classify various anomaly behaviors (such as network scanning and DDoS attacks) in network traffic. The linear complexity of our method makes real-time detection and analysis practical.


– The purpose of this paper is to understand how the migration from the print world to the electronic environment has affected the motivations, attitudes and behaviours of researchers in scholarly communication., – The paper takes the form of an investigation that is both quantitative and qualitative. The study was split into three phases: understand the issues affecting researchers (focus groups and interviews); an online survey of 6,344 researchers measuring attitudes and digging deeper into issues: telephone interviews to understand differences between different groups change. Differences in opinions were examined across discipline., – While there has been some change in the behaviour of researchers, there has been little change in their motivations for publication. Researchers want other researchers' data but are less inclined to share their own. Researcher attitudes towards repositories are very mixed. Researchers highly value peer review. The pressure to over‐publish at the expense of quality is exaggerated., – Further research is required to measure the impact on researcher motivations and attitudes of external pressures that were emerging at the time of this study. This includes the growing influence of funding bodies, the economic downturn and its impact on institutional budgets, as well as subsequent advances in the digital revolution., – This research suggests that, while technology may have positively impacted the efficiency of scholarly communication, the drivers behind scholarly information exchange remain relatively unchanged. Moreover, changes to the scholarly information business model will only be successful if they continue to satisfy the underlying motivations and needs of researchers., – This paper fulfils an identified need to measure the motivations of researchers towards the core functions of scholarly communication on a global level.


Strong monads and premonoidal categories play a central role in clarifying the denotational semantics of effectful programming languages. Unfortunately, this theory excludes many modern semantic models in which the associativity and unit laws only hold up to coherent isomorphism: for instance, because composition is defined using a universal property. This paper remedies the situation. We define premonoidal bicategories and a notion of strength for pseudomonads, and show that the Kleisli bicategory of a strong pseudomonad is premonoidal. As often in 2-dimensional category theory, the main difficulty is to find the correct coherence axioms on 2-cells. We therefore justify our definitions with numerous examples and by proving a correspondence theorem between actions and strengths, generalizing a well-known category-theoretic result.


A three dimensional model was developed for Plasmodium falciparum Farnesyltransferase (PfFT) that has not been solved empirically by X-ray crystallography or NMR. Homology modeling was used for the structure predic tion using farnesyltransferase protein 2ZIR 2.4 A (Rat), and 1JCQ 2.3 A (Human) a moderate-resolution X-ray crystallography structures . The former showed 36% and the latter, 35% sequence identity with the target PfFT protein. The 3D-model was generated by using modeler in Discovery studio 2.5. The energy refinement was also been carried out in the modeler protocol. The validation study showed 88.2% of the residues (750) to be in the favourable region. In addition binding affinities of some inhibitors were investigated against the modeled protein using GOLD. The results showed that Arg-551, Tyr-824, Tyr-600 were found to be among the interacting residues of PfFT with many of the inhibitors. Our findings could be helpful for the design of new and more potent PfFT inhibitors. .


Relevance. Lichen planus is a chronic recurring dermatosis, characterized by unspecified etiopathogenesis, a variety of trigger factors, a severe, often permanent course, a tendency to malignancy of the lesion elements, and often refractory to the treatment. The most difficult clinical problem is the search for effective methods of treating continuously recurring severe forms of lichen planus and red border of the lips, refractory to corticosteroids. Objective – to improve the quality of treatment for severe forms of lichen planus of the oral mucosa and red border of the lips based on the use of various physical methods in complex therapy. Materials and methods. Depending on the complex of medical procedures, all patients were divided into four groups, the patients of which respectively underwent traditional drug treatment; complex treatment using ozone therapy; complex treatment using photophoresis of red LED radiation and a topical steroid, as well as complex treatment using combined physiotherapy and ozone therapy in combination with photophoresis. Results. The inclusion of physical methods in the complex treatment of patients with severe forms of lichen planus of the mucous membrane of the mouth and lips made it possible to accelerate the time of epithelization of erosive-ulcerative elements and achieve a stable remission of the disease. Conclusion. The obtained clinical data allowed us to draw conclusions about the appropriateness of using physical methods in the treatment of severe forms of lichen planus of the oral mucosa and lips using the effectiveness of combined physiotherapy.


The key aspect of mechatronic products is to add intelligent components and systems which combine an optimum use of multidisciplinary technologies to shorten the development cycle with reduced cost and increased quality. Advances in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) have a profound impact in the field of sensors and actuators for intelligent mechatronic systems. Miniature sensors and actuators are fabricated using technologies from silicon integrated circuit industry. These micromachined sensors and actuators provide several advantages over the conventional counterparts, such as size reduction, new function, integration with control circuitry, cost reduction, and sensor/actuator arrays. MEMS technology has dramatically increased the number of sensors and actuators implemented in mechatronic systems. Nowadays, microsensors and actuators such as silicon pressure sensors, microfabricated print heads, acceleration sensor, gyro sensor, and micromechanical display devices have been used in a lot of mechatronic products. Some examples of micromachined sensors and micromachined actuators are given.


The aim of this thesis is to empirically study challenges and opportunities in the operational work in contract-based RD the relevance of these trust formation mechanisms contributes both to the knowledge of micro-processes of trust formation and specific managerial abilities in R&D alliances. Third, we examine the influence of two types of contextual risks that have been addressed in previous alliance research: relational and performance risks. The comparative analysis of a sub-sample of alliances shows that these risks influence the operational work in R&D alliances for which operational leaders could be specifically trained and prepared. Lastly, a framework that addresses support from HRM in inter-organizational context has been developed and analyzed. This has indicated that HRM represents an important, although unexploited, resource when engaging in R&D alliances.Furthermore, we have suggested a tentative framework for the R&D alliance as a sustainable work system. The overall findings from this study have been synthesized from a sustainable work systems perspective, based on three organizational principles that have been drawn from practice-centered product innovation: broadened roles and responsibilities, work as a collaborative process, and decentralization of strategic information. A fourth principle has been incorporated as well: support systems for sustainable work. This concluded that, in order to be sustainable, companies that engage in R&D alliances should carefully manage and reassess the consequences of these organizational principles in order to simultaneously support the goals that are involved in this type of work system: to simultaneously support innovation, inter-organizational relationships, and the regeneration of human resources.


In this paper, we develop statistical inference tools for high-dimensional functional time series. We introduce a new concept of physical dependent processes in the space of square integrable functions, which adopts the idea of basis decomposition of functional data in these spaces, and derive Gaussian and multiplier bootstrap approximations for sums of high-dimensional functional time series. These results have numerous important statistical consequences. Exemplarily, we consider the development of joint simultaneous confidence bands for the mean functions and the construction of tests for the hypotheses that the mean functions in the panel dimension are parallel. The results are illustrated by means of a small simulation study and in the analysis of Canadian temperature data.


The B3 triangular unit is a fundamental bonding motif in all boron compounds and nanostructures. The isolated B3 - cluster has a D3h structure with double σ and π aromaticity. Here, we report an investigation of the bonding between a B3 cluster and a 3d transition metal using high-resolution photoelectron imaging and computational chemistry. Photoelectron spectra of MnB3 - are obtained at six different photon energies, revealing rich vibrational information for the ground state detachment transition. The electron affinity of MnB3 is determined to be 1.6756(8) eV, and the most Franck-Condon-active mode observed has a measured frequency of 415(6) cm-1 due to the Mn-B3 stretch. Theoretical calculations show that MnB3 - has a C2v planar structure, with Mn coordinated to one side of the triangular B3 unit. The ground states of MnB3 - (6B2) and MnB3 (5B2) are found to have high spin multiplicity with a significant decrease in the Mn-B bond distances in the neutral due to the detachment of an Mn-B3 anti-bonding electron. The Mn atom is shown to have weak interactions with the B3 unit, which maintains its double aromaticity with relatively small structural changes from the bare B3 cluster. The bonding in MnB3 is compared with that in 5d MB3 clusters, where the strong metal-B3 interactions strongly change the structures and bonding in the B3 moiety.


This paper describes a prosection of the pterygomandibular space from a medial perspective, as the dentist would encounter it. The prosection is performed on a bisected head, with vertebrae removed. The preparation can be used to demonstrate to the student the exact course of a needle during an inferior alveolar nerve block. The anatomical structures involved in performing the conventional, Gow‐Gates, or Akinosi injection techniques are directly compared. The impingement of a misplaced needle on neighboring structures can be demonstrated.


Traditional plastics have undoubted utility and convenience for everyday life; but when they are derived from petroleum and are non-biodegradable, they contribute to two major crises today's world is facing: fossil resources depletion and environmental degradation. Polyhydroxyalkanoates are a promising alternative to replace them, being biodegradable and suitable for a wide variety of applications. This biopolymer accumulates as energy and carbon storage material in various microorganisms, including microalgae. This study investigated the influence of glucose, N, P, Fe, and salinity over the production of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) by Scenedesmus sp., a freshwater microalga strain not previously explored for this purpose. To assess the effect of the variables, a fractional Taguchi experimental design involving 16 experimental runs was planned and executed. Biopolymer was obtained in all the experiments in a wide range of concentrations (0.83–29.92%, w/w DW), and identified as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) by FTIR analysis. The statistical analysis of the response was carried out using Minitab 16, where phosphorus, glucose, and iron were identified as significant factors, together with the P-Fe and glucose-N interactions. The presence of other relevant macromolecules was also quantified. Doing this, this work contributes to the understanding of the critical factors that control PHA production and present Scenedesmus sp. as a promising species to produce bio-resources in commercial systems.


Background: Total ankle replacement (TAR) has become an established surgical procedure for the management of end-stage ankle arthropathy offering an alternative to ankle fusion. Controversy exists over whether to correct concomitant hindfoot arthropathy or malalignment as a separate procedure or simultaneously with TAR. Simultaneous surgery confers the advantage of one operation and recovery period, however, many authors believe complication rates may be higher and long-term function compromised. Method : A retrospective review of all patients, between January 2003 and January 2007, who had undergone simultaneous bony hindfoot or midfoot corrective surgery and TAR, at our institution was performed. A matched group of primary TAR patients were included as controls. Mean follow-up was 38 and 39 months respectively. Data collected included demographics and indications, details of operative procedure, and complications with outcomes assessed by patient satisfaction, range of movement, walking distance and Visual Analogue Score (VAS) for pain. Results: The two groups were matched for age, sex, follow-up, prostheses and diagnosis. The underlying pathology was predominantly osteoarthritis. Mean VAS improved by 7.66 points in the TAR alone group and 8 points in the TAR and adjuvant surgical procedure group. There was no statistical difference in infection, delayed wound healing, malleolar fracture or re-operation rates between the two groups. Conclusion: We believe that an experienced Foot and Ankle surgeon can perform corrective hindfoot or midfoot surgery simultaneously with TAR without significantly compromising outcome.


A well-posed problem in analysis of elastic bodies requires the definition of appropriate constrains of the boundary to prevent rigid body motion. However, one is sometimes presented with the problem of non-self-equilibrated tractions on an elastic body that will cause rigid body motion, while the boundary should remain unconstrained. One such case is the analysis of multi-particle dynamics where the solution is obtained in a quasi-static approach. In such cases, the motion of the particles is governed by the dynamic equilibrium while the contact forces between particles may be computed from elastostatic solutions. This paper presents two regularization methods of Interior-Constraint Boundary Element techniques for elastostatic analysis with improper boundary supports. In the proposed method rigid body modes are eliminated by imposing constrains on the interior of an elastic body. This is accomplished through simultaneously solving the governing Boundary Integral Equation and Somigliana's Identity. The proposed method is examined through assessment and verification studies where it is demonstrated, that for all considered problems rigid body motion is successfully constrained with minimal effects on body deformations.


This paper focuses on integration of solar energy in an efficient way to power the transportation system such as metro train in UAE. The aim is to reduce the power load on the power grid and employ solar energy which is a clean, pollution free and an abundant source of energy. Urban rail system operation requires enormous amount of power and this can be reduced by using solar energy. This paper focuses on the design of the solar powered network for DC electrified 750 V third rail systems for metro trains. Solar powered metro train will use a smart combination of energy generated by solar panels and power grid. The proposed system can be integrated into the existing third rail 750 V technology in an efficient way.


Magnesium ions (Mg2+) play a crucial role in the activation and synthesis of guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins). However, there is no information about the influence of in vivo magnesium deficiency on the function and levels of G proteins. This study was done to investigate whether dietary magnesium deficiency alters function and levels of the two major myocardial G proteins, Gi alpha and Gs alpha. Severe hypomagnesemia and a significant reduction of myocardial magnesium occurred in rats fed a magnesium-deficient diet for 6 wk vs. rats fed a normal-magnesium diet (control). The magnesium-deficient rats developed focal myocardial lesions but their cardiac function was not impaired. Myocardial immunodetectable Gs alpha and Gi alpha levels of magnesium-deficient rats did not differ from control (Gs alpha: 2.39 +/- 0.52 vs. 2.76 +/- 0.72 arbitrary units/microgram protein, P > 0.05; Gi alpha: 1.60 +/- 0.52 vs. 1.89 +/- 0.30 arbitrary units/microgram protein, P > 0.05). Similarly, the function of Gs alpha and Gi alpha estimated by basal and ligand-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity was not significantly different between the two groups of animals. The results show that dietary-derived magnesium deficiency sufficient to produce severe hypomagnesemia does not produce any significant change in levels or function of myocardial G proteins.


Abstract In 2002 the Integrated Food Security Strategy (IFSS) was approved by Cabinet as the strategy that would integrate the many previously isolated policies tackling the challenge of food insecurity in South Africa. Recent focus on food security due to rising food prices at a national and global level has placed the food security agenda back in the spotlight. In this paper it is argued that there is a disjuncture between the institutional response mechanism defined in South Africa's strategy and the complexity of food insecurity nationally. It outlines why, as a response seated uncomfortably under the leadership of the National Department of Agriculture, the IFSS remains frustrated by a range of structural and organisational challenges. The IFSS provides a useful case study to demonstrate the importance of institutional arrangements to achieve food security that by its nature, requires integrated responses from diverse stakeholders.


Plasma structure in nighttime equatorial F layer, referred to as equatorial spread F (ESF), displays climatology whose seasonal variation depends on longitude. At longitudes where ESF favors equinoxes, times when maxima occur can be predicted in terms of the day of year, when E region sunset is simultaneous in conjugate hemispheres (i.e., "sunset nodes"). Aside from occurrences around equinoxes, there are only three longitudes where ESF also occurs during a solstice; one is the central Pacific region. Here ESF activity is strong during the June solstice, when solar activity is high. To understand this puzzling behavior, ESF climatology over the Kwajalein Atoll was compared with properties of the postsunset rise (PSSR) of the F layer and seeding activity in the troposphere. The key findings are as follows: (1) Maxima in PSSR velocity (VPSSR) are better aligned with equinoxes than with sunset nodes; hence, seasonal pattern of VPSSR, not only sunset nodes, should be included in interpretation of ESF climatology. (2) The source of VPSSR during solstice appears to differ from that during equinoxes. (3) Equinoctial maxima in VPSSR could be related to a semiannual variation in equatorial electrojet strength and its contribution to polarization of the F region dynamo current. (4) Enhanced VPSSR during the June solstice is interpreted in terms of tidal forcing with a wave number of 2. (5) Displacements of maxima in ESF climatology from maxima in VPSSR are shown to be consistent with deep convective activity.


High school students often ask questions about the nature of infinity. When contemplating what the "largest number" is, or discussing the speed of light, students bring their own ideas about infinity and asymptotes into the conversation. These are popular ideas, but formal ideas about the nature of mathematical sets, or "set theory," are generally unknown to high school students. The authors propose a method for introducing basic ideas in set theory to high school trigonometry students by connecting prior knowledge of the tangent function and the unit circle to Georg Cantor's ideas about infinity. By doing so, high school teachers have an opportunity to inspire their students with rich mathematics.


We derive exact solutions to the vacuum Einstein field equations in 5D, under the assumption that (i) the line element in 5D possesses self-similar symmetry, in the classical understanding of Sedov, Taub and Zeldovich, and that (ii) the metric tensor is diagonal and independent of the coordinates for ordinary 3D space. These assumptions lead to three different types of self-similarity in 5D: homothetic, conformal and 'wave-like'. In this work we present the most general wave-like solutions to the 5D field equations. Using the standard technique based on Campbell's theorem, they generate a large number of anisotropic cosmological models of Bianchi type I, which can be applied to our universe after the big bang, when anisotropies could have played an important role. We present a complete review of all possible cases of self-similar anisotropic cosmologies in 5D. Our analysis extends a number of previous studies on wave-like solutions in 5D with spatial spherical symmetry.


Acquisition of distinct neuronal identities during development is critical for the assembly of diverse functional neural circuits in the brain. In both vertebrates and invertebrates, intrinsic determinants are thought to act in neural progenitors to specify their identity and the identity of their neuronal progeny. However, the extent to which individual factors can contribute to this is poorly understood. We investigate the role of orthodenticle in the specification of an identified neuroblast (neuronal progenitor) lineage in the Drosophila brain. Loss of orthodenticle from this neuroblast affects molecular properties, neuroanatomical features, and functional inputs of progeny neurons, such that an entire central complex lineage transforms into a functional olfactory projection neuron lineage. This ability to change functional macrocircuitry of the brain through changes in gene expression in a single neuroblast reveals a surprising capacity for novel circuit formation in the brain and provides a paradigm for large-scale evolutionary modification of circuitry. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.04407.001


Case report about a 79 year old man with transient acantholytic dermatosis (TAD). Review of the literature of Grover's disease.


The purpose of this study was to analyze the manifestations of Burnout syndrome in a particular group of health workers, therapeutic attendants. In addition, coping strategies are studied, both in general terms and specific strategies of the profession, and its relationship with symptoms of the syndrome. The sample consisted of 17 professionals from Cordoba (Argentina) of both sexes (41.2% males), aged between 22 and 53 years (M=29.53 years,SD=7.43). The prevalence of different symptoms of the syndrome is discussed considering different criteria of cut, with mixed results; while relations with the coping strategies were only evident among some dimension.


Using the indirect immunofluorescence technique of Coons and collaborators, neurons containing substance P-, enkephalin-, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP)--and somatostatin-like immuno-reactivity have been identified in the peripheral nervous system. They have a widespread distribution, particularly in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts. Whereas part of these peptide containing fibres may belong to sensory neurons, the majority seem to have their origin in peripheral autonomic ganglia, indicating a complex built up of the autonomic nervous system. There is evidence that some noradrenergic neurons contain somatostatin, which may suggest that one neuron can synthesize and store two transmitters. The significance of such neurons, as well as of peripheral peptide neurons in general, remains to be elucidated.


INTRODUCTION
Prosthetic rehabilitation of mandibular discontinuity defects poses a great challenge to prosthodontists especially when surgical reconstruction is not carried out prior to rehabilitation.

METHOD
A 25-year-old young man was referred to the prosthetic unit of the Dental Centre, University College Hospital Ibadan with an anterior discontinuity defect following resection of a mandibular tumour. After clinical and laboratory procedures, the prosthesis used to rehabilitate the patient is unique because it is simple, made of heat cure acrylic resin, affordable and aesthetically pleasing. It is essentially a single piece removable acrylic partial denture retained with wrought wire clasps.

RESULT
Patient was satisfied with the prosthesis.

DISCUSSION
Although a number of studies have reported procedures for prosthetic rehabilitation of mandibular discontinuity defects, there is a dearth of information on single piece acrylic prosthesis in the management of discontinuity defects. The effect of acrylic denture on residual soft tissue was weighed against the quality of life of patient if left untreated.

CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the National Health Insurance Scheme includes simple interim prostheses as part of its package to improve the quality of life of the people.


Lanthanide containing complex oxides, especially the ABO3 perovskite and A(n+1)BnO(3n+1) Ruddlesden–Popper series, attract much interest as promising catalytic materials in many renewable energy applications such as electro-chemical energy conversion and hydrogen production. Recent experimental and theoretical studies on some members of these materials, e.g. La2NiO4, revealed that the La–O terminated surfaces are catalytically active under operational conditions. These findings suggested that the conventional understanding of such oxides being fully ionized, and composed of catalytically inert La3+ ions needs to be revised. In this study, generalized gradient approximation and hybrid density functional theory methods were used to study and compare the electronic structures of La and Sr in related oxides. Density functional theory approaches based on both Gaussian and plane wave basis sets were employed to ensure robustness of this study. Consistent results were obtained across different ab initio methods and approaches used. Density of states plots and charge analysis results showed that La exhibits a partially occupied d-orbital and an atomic charge of +2 instead of its nominal valence number (+3) in the oxides, while Sr does not show similar characteristics. Electron density maps obtained from synchrotron X-ray diffraction experiments confirmed the simulation findings as well. The presence of the available d-orbital electron on La and associated partial covalency were postulated as being responsible for the catalytic behaviour observed in experiments. In addition, Pr and Ba electronic structures in related oxides were also calculated. A similar trend to the La and Sr charges was observed. Based on these findings, the traditional concept of atomic "ionicity" was briefly reviewed and adapted as a catalysis descriptor for possible performance evaluation.


This paper mainly presents the investigation which has been carried out on the FRP sandwich panel of footbridge decks under static patch load condition. The high strength to weight ratio property of FRP sandwich panel has a considerable impact on selecting it over the conventional materials especially in bridge decks. Therefore, to understand the behaviour of FRP sandwich panel under static patch load condition, a further investigation has been conducted in this work as a main purpose. In order to fulfil the purpose two methods have been used, namely analytical solutions technique and numerical approach. In the analytical method a theoretical formulations was used to find out the displacement and stresses. In the numerical method a 3D model (FEM) was created to investigate the response of sandwich panel under static loading and to validate the analytical results. The outcomes show that the core contributes the shear rigidity and skins contribute flexure rigidity. Finally, comparisons were made between analytical and numerical results. Relatively, good agreements were achieved between analytical and numerical approaches especially in predicting the tensile stresses over the compressive stresses.


The aims of this study are (1) to develop 4N concept from Ki Hajar Dewantara into 4N model of learning for science, (2) to investigate the quality of developed products, (3) to investigate the effect of 4N learning model for scinece learning to Tri Nga competencies, and (4) to investigate the implementation of the model.The study used 9 steps of research and development (R&D) model of Borg & Gall without taking the dissemination process.The results of the study are as follows. (1) The 4N concept was developed to become 4N model for science learning. (2) The Products are appropriate to use for teaching and learning process. (3) The 4N learning model can achieve a functional science learning: (a) the model can increase Tri Nga competencies. (b) Science learning using the 4N model achieves the KKM target, and (c) the 4N model gets good response from the students. (4) The 4N model is in well done category.


PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences and perceptions of Dutch postdoctoral nurses working in research with leadership and career development.

METHODS AND DESIGN
A generic explorative qualitative design with semistructured in-depth interviews was used. A criterion sample of 13 postdoctoral nurses working in research in the Netherlands was included. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

FINDINGS
Three themes were identified: (a) developing leadership and identity as a PhD nurse, (b) becoming a valuable member in the scientific world of academe, and (c) continuous search for progression while balancing worlds and tasks. Postdoctoral nurses experienced their leadership and professional development as a serious and conscious process. Their vision of nursing, health care, and research was an important motive regarding future career choices. Although the scientific world of academe was perceived as honorable, the nurses experienced it as a complex work environment. All the postdoctoral nurses had to deal with the demands and pressures of the scientific world. Coping with the tension between enjoying work and handling high workloads and academic achievements was described as challenging. Searching for balance was important, especially because of the different part-time employment or working activities with various commitments.

CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that postdoctoral nurses do show considerable progression in their leadership and career development; however, they experience the scientific working environment as challenging. The findings of this study indicate the need for more academic positions, the strengthening of the infrastructure for nursing research, and the development of supportive leadership and mentoring programs for postdoctoral nurses to provide optimal evidence-based and high-quality care for patients.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Postdoctoral nurses need to develop strong leadership competencies to strengthen research, education, and evidence-based practice in clinical care to improve patient and healthcare outcomes.


Corporate social responsibility is contm-service of company to its environment and society since company already has gains from them. There are various models of corporate social responsibility carried alit by the companies in Indonesia. They can involve directly to pelform the events of responsibility or through third party. They can also make a cooperation with another par(y or join to another party. They can give
contributions to the people and their er. vironment directly by increasing their quality of life. But, they have to obey the rules and regulations set by government for their
sustainability. The different types of s;)cial re5ponsibility programs need different treatments of their taxation.


Since 1980s, derivatives market has become the significant component of international financial market, and its founding and development contributes to the characteristics of modern financial market. Derivatives, which have gone through the stages of massive import, fast growth and gradual maturity, are one of the fruits of financial creations. It has also led to constructive reform of financial system. As for present market, according to BIS, the notional principle of exchange traded derivatives and options sums to 73.46 trillion US dollars. While the notional value of contract of global OTC derivatives is 691 trillion US dollars, the add-up would be 764.46 trillion US dollars. The OTC derivatives take up 90.39% global derivatives market. In the meanwhile, according to ISDA statistics, 94% of global 500 companies trade in OTC derivatives market.


The kidney is an excellent model for studying organ aging. Kidney function shows steady decline with age and is easy to assay using urine or blood samples. However, little is known about the molecular changes that take place in the kidney during the aging process. In order to better understand the molecular changes that occur with age, we measured mRNA and protein levels in 188 genetically diverse mice at ages 6, 12, and 18 months. We observed distinctive change in mRNA and protein levels as a function of age. Changes in both mRNA and protein are associated with increased immune infiltration and decreases in mitochondrial function. Proteins show a greater extent of change and reveal changes in a wide array of biological processes including unique, organ-specific features of aging in kidney. Most importantly, we observed functionally important age-related changes in protein that occur in the absence of corresponding changes in mRNA. Our findings suggest that mRNA profiling alone provides an incomplete picture of molecular aging in the kidney and that examination of changes in proteins is essential to understand aging processes that are not transcriptionally regulated.


With an increasing number of patients being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD) daily, it has become one of the major problems in public health. The increase in the number of dementia patients in low- and middle-income countries is expected to be much more than that in developed countries. As a result, the economic burden of dementia, both worldwide and in Turkey, is growing. Moreover, AD leads to emotional burdens and psychological distress in family member(s) and caregiver(s) alongside the patient. Each stage of AD imposes different responsibilities on caregivers, increasing their burden. The suffering and emotional burdens of caregivers from these responsibilities lead to a decreased quality of life and disturbed body physiology. Incapacity, despair, weariness, and loneliness are the hidden emotions of this iceberg. This review aims to gather the results of studies on caregiver burden in different stages of AD, attract attention to those results that may have been ignored in Turkey, and shed light on the solutions required to overcome the problems in caregiving of AD patients.


The evaluation of knowledge quality (KQ) in multisource knowledge graphs (KGs) is an essential step for many applications, such as fragmented knowledge fusion and knowledge base construction. Many existing quality evaluation methods for multisource knowledge are based on validation from high-quality knowledge bases or statistical analysis of knowledge related to a specific fact from multiple sources, named external consistency (EC)-based methods. However, high-quality KGs are difficult to obtain, and there might exist incorrect knowledge in multisource KGs interfering with KQ evaluation. To address the issue, this article refers to the internal structure of a KG to evaluate the degree to which the contained triples conform to the overall semantic pattern of the KG, such as KG embedding and logic inference-based approaches, defined as internal consistency (IC) evaluation. The IC is integrated with the EC to identify possible incorrect triples and reduce their influences on the KQ evaluation, thus alleviating the interference of incorrect knowledge. The proposed method is verified with multiple datasets, and the results demonstrate that the proposed method could significantly reduce wrong evaluations caused by incorrect knowledge and effectively improve the quality evaluation of triples.


In this paper we present the first part of an extensive study of nonimpulsive orbital transfers under thrust errors. We emphasize the first part of the numerical implementation (Monte-Carlo) of the study but men- tion the first algebraic explanation for some of the numerical results. Its main results suggest and partially characterize the progressive deformation of the trajectory distribution along the propulsive arc, turning 3sigma ellipsoids into banana shaped volumes curved to the center of attraction (we call them "ba- nanoids") due to the loss of optimality of the actual (with errors) trajectories with respect to the nominal (no errors) trajectory.


A new method for assessing the efficiency of batteries of arbitrary numbers of tests is proposed. The posterior probability of the mutagenicity of the substances studied has been estimated using discriminant analysis. The results of tests in each test system has been presented as the probability to obtain a positive result in the given test system. This has made it possible to decrease the sample size as the number of tests in the battery increased. As a result, prognostic power may be assessed even if the matrix of results is incomplete. This approach has been used to estimate the weights of evidence for mutagenic activities of 105 chemical compounds studied by means of a battery of four tests: Ames's test, the test for chromosome aberrations in vitro, the test for cytogenetic defects in vivo, and the test for dominant lethal mutations in rodents.


Amyloid fibrils are typically associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Recent studies have suggested that, similar to prions, many amyloid proteins are infectious in nature and may cause spreading and dissemination of diseases. Typical amyloid infection propagates by recruiting functional proteins into amyloidogenic form and multiplying by breaking the existing fibril. In this study, we model the kinetics of fibril growth through breakage and the subsequent elongation process, similar to the prion infection process. Using kinetic Monte Carlo simulations as well as mathematical counting methods, we show how the measurable quantities like the 50% aggregation time (T50) and the maximum growth rate (Vmax) scale with various parameters in the problem. This study has a direct application where it can be used to understand experiments that amplify the minute amount of amyloid seeds present in biological fluid for early detection of human disease. Using the knowledge from our simulations, we can predict the initial seed concentration, known as the filament kinetics.


Qualitative science methods have largely been omitted from discussions of open science. Platforms focused on qualitative science that support open science data and method sharing are rare. Sharing and exchanging coding schemas has great potential for supporting traceability in qualitative research as well as for facilitating the reuse of coding schemas. In this study, we present and evaluate QualiCO, an ontology to describe qualitative coding schemas. Twenty qualitative researchers used QualiCO to complete two coding tasks. In our findings, we present task performance and interview data that focus participants' attention on the ontology. Participants used QualiCO to complete the coding tasks, decreasing time on task, while improving accuracy, signifying that QualiCO enabled the reuse of qualitative coding schemas. Our discussion elaborates some issues that participants had and highlights how conceptual and prior practice frames their interpretation of how QualiCO can be used.


In the early days of implementing IT in the business, it was often seen as a technical support function and was typically managed by finance departments. When evolving from technology providers into strategic partners, IT organizations typically follow a three-stage approach: IT infrastructure management, IT service management and IT business value management (IT Governance). As the IT initiatives has become far more than a means of improving efficiency and reducing costs and increasingly account for enabler of business innovation, it still seems that it is less understood business resource. One of reason could be that often there is no systematically way of measuring IT performances and implementing IT Governance practices. In this paper we investigated the practices by which IT can contribute to the business as well as how to measure it. Main objective of this paper is to stress the importance of evolving IT Governance activities. Similarities between corporate governance and IT governance are discussed in further details. On the sample of selected Croatian large companies, the organizational position and the role of IT in the business has been investigated, while specific research interest was to get the clear view of the maturity level of IT usage. We hoped that such approach could be useful when trying to answer the posed research question: what stage of IT maturity level (from technical support to IT Governance) reflects the IT practices in the Croatian large companies? Key-Words: IT Governance, IT Audit, IT Performance Measurement, Croatia, CobiT, ITIL


In a very personal reflection, this paper aims to trace the academic trajectory of a female marketing academic in a very male-dominated discipline. It also highlights the struggle balancing work and family, as well as protecting an immigrant identity in a foreign culture.,Given the period and unique conditions of the author's academic journey, this highly personal retrospective account is based on recall of significant events that have shaped my singular experience. It attempts to capture the experience of an immigrant female novice navigating not only a foreign culture but also a very male-dominant discipline.,While times have changed and gender barriers are lower today, challenges remain. In addition, the set of choices faced by women with partners in the same discipline differ significantly and complicate the family-work balance decisions. There is no one set of path that can be followed.,While there is a professional cost to deviating from the mainstream, pursuing alternatives to the dominant topics is vital to advancing the health and relevance of the marketing discipline. The relationships between marketing and development have been an important topic for me; however, these macromarketing topics continue to be neglected. Given the current socio-economic-political conditions globally, perhaps future marketing scholars will devote greater attention to these topics.,This is purely the author's personal reflection of a journey that began accidentally. It also occurred in the 1970s when women were rare in the business world, particularly business academia. It offers a retrospective comparison to male peers who, aside from their individual talents and history (Belk, 2017; Firat, 2014; Holbrook, 2017), were achieving their professional goals at a similar period. It also provides some historical context that can be compared to experiences of other female pioneers in marketing academia and marketing practice (Bolton, 2017; Tadajewski and Maclaran, 2013; Zeithaml, 2017).


Aim. Production of monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to synthetic tetrasaccharide - repeating unit of the capsular polysaccharide (CP) of Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 14 and their immunochemical characterization. Materials and methods. In order to generate the hybridoma producing mAb, mice were immunized with synthetic tetrasaccharide conjugated with bovine serum albumin (BSA) with following hybridization of B lymphocytes with mouse myeloma cells. Antibodies were obtained in vitro andin vivo. Immunochemical characterization of mAb to tetrasaccharide was carried out using a variety of ELISA options. Results. For the first time obtained mouse hybridoma, producing IgM to tetrasacchride. The IgM titer of anti-tetrasacharide antibodies in supernatants of clones and in the ascitic fluid of mice in ELISA detected by biotinylated tetrasaccharide and synthetic CP adsorbed on the solid phase was higher compared to the use of bacterial CP as well cover antigen. In the reaction of inhibition of the ELISA, the mAb recognized the corresponding carbohydrate epitopes of the bacterial CP of S. pneumoniae serotype 14 dissolved in the liquid phase better than tetrasaccharide ligand and synthetic CP. Conclusion. To detect mAb to tetrasaccharide in ELISA preferably to use synthetic analogues of the CP as solid phase antigens. The obtained mAb to tetrasaccharide can be used to determine the representation of the protective tetrasaccharide epitope of CP in the development of pneumococcal vaccines.


Nowadays, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) applications are widely
used in daily application and also in industries. RFID is an automatic identifications
method, relying on storing and remotely retrieving data using devices called RFID
tags or transponders. The RFID tag is an object that can be placed into a product or
person for the purpose of identification using radio waves. RFID uses wireless
communication technique, found application in many areas such as attendance
tracking system in campus or in a big factory and also for inventory tracking and
management. In this project, the work of Yifen Han, Qiang Li and Hao Min from
Auto-ID Labs at Fudan University, Shanghai, China will be reproduced so that further
simulation result can be generated. Special attention is emphasized on the
development of transmitter, receiver, wireless channel and tag for the system
simulation environment because these four elements are the most important
subsystems to produce an RFID simulation environment. This project will evaluate the
system performance by changing the coding method and operation distance. At this
point, half of transmitter subsystems have been done. The subsystems developed so far
are source coding, raised cosine Hilbert and digital to analog converter.


This study investigated changes in the dimensions of Class II cavities following the removal of amalgam, glass ionomer and compomer restorations. In 30 extracted caries-free human molars, preparation for 60 mesio-occlusal and occluso-distal cavities (two cavities per tooth) occurred. With a CEREC 3 laser triangulation sensor and software-based construction analysis, the dimensions of the cavities at seven defined sites were measured. The cavities were randomized into four groups. Group 1 was restored with Ketac-Fil glass-ionomer cement, Group 2 with amalgam and Group 3 with Compoglass F compomer. In Group 4, Compoglass F was used in combination with photochromic Tetric Flow Chroma as a cavity liner. The completed restorations were then removed using 2x magnification and the cavities were once again controlled using the laser system. The duration of the removal procedure was also recorded. Changes in cavity dimensions (depth, height and width) following removal of the restorations were significantly smaller in Groups 1 and 2. Groups 3 and 4 were characterized by a significant overextension of the cavities compared to Groups 1 and 2 in all three dimensions. Group 4, with Tetric Flow Chroma as a cavity liner, showed better results than Group 3, but this improvement was not statistically significant. The duration of the removal procedure was significantly shorter in Group 2 than in the other groups.


The disposal of waste cathode ray tubes (CRT) from old
televisions and discarded computer monitors is rapidly becoming an issue of
growing environmental concern due to the leaching of lead and other toxins
by groundwater from landfill sites. Imminent legislation in both the EU and
the USA is likely to demand much stricter control on the disposal of such
hazardous electronic equipment, with a drive towards lead removal prior to
landfill and/or recycling. This paper describes the use of power ultrasound
to facilitate the removal of lead from the heavily-leaded CRT glass
via an accelerated leaching protocol, with the aim of producing a
lead-free product for greener disposal or more ideally for glass recycling
purposes. The paper also describes the use of cathodic stripping
voltammetry at a boron-doped diamond sensor, as a quick, easy and
cost-effective technique for monitoring the rate of lead released from the
CRT glass into a mildly acidic leachate.


For simple Lie groups, the only homogeneous manifolds G/K, where K is maximal compact subgroup, for which the phase of the scalar product of two coherent state vectors is twice the symplectic area of a geodesic triangle are the hermitian symmetric spaces. An explicit calculation of the multiplicative factor on the complex Grassmann manifold and its noncompact dual is presented. It is shown that the multiplicative factor is identical with the two-cocycle considered by A. Guichardet and D. Wigner for simple Lie groups.


Modern software development methodologies include reuse of open source code. Reuse can be facilitated by architectural knowledge of the software, not necessarily provided in the documentation of open source software. The effort required to comprehend the system's source code and discover its architecture can be considered a major drawback in reuse. In a recent study we examined the correlations between design metrics and classes' architecture layer. In this paper, we apply our methodology in more open source projects to verify the applicability of our method. Keywords: system understanding; program comprehension; object-oriented; reuse; architecture layer; design metrics;


Zinc oxide has emerged as an attractive material for various applications in electronics, optoelectronics, biomedical and sensing. The large excitonic binding energy of 60 meV at room temperature as compared to 25 meV of gallium nitride, an III-V compound makes ZnO an efficient light
 emitter in the ultraviolet (UV) spectral region and hence favourable for optoelectronic applications. The high conductivity and transparency of ZnO makes it important for applications like transparent conducting oxides (TCO) and thin-film transistors (TFT). In this paper, the optoelectronic,
 electronic and other properties that make ZnO attractive for a variety of applications are discussed. Various applications of ZnO thin film and its devices such as light-emitting diodes (LED), UV sensors, biosensors, photodetectors and TFT that have been described by various research groups
 are presented.


The Ukrainian Baroque style of the 17th century can unite ascetic appeals with hedonism, refinement with bullying, abstract symbolism with naturalism, dynamics, passion, histrionics, enchantment and illusionism ( Ukrajins'ka literatura XVII st ., Kyiv 1987, pp. 8-9). The writers and preachers of this century use allegories, metaphors and similes, as well as ancient and Christian images in their works. The significance and the functions of homily as a social genre are greater than those of an ecclesiastical institute. According to its content, form and social functions, homily expresses a special aesthetic mission and becomes distinctly a baroque one (V.I. Krekoten',  Opovidannja Antonija Radyvyl'vs'koho , Kyiv 1983, p. 7). During this century, prominent Ukrainian Church and cultural personalities connected with the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy joined the space of western educational communication. They understood the sense and key ideas of ancient texts and Augustus' Latin era remained a symbol of versatility and high standards. The most prominent Ukrainian preachers of the second half of the 17th century were the students of Kyiv-Mohyla College Ioannikii Haliatovs'kyi and Antonii Radyvylovs'kyi.


The Light Microscopy Module (LMM) is planned as a remotely controllable on-orbit microscope subrack facility, allowing flexible scheduling and operation of fluids and biology experiments within the Fluids and Combustion Facility (FCF) Fluids Integrated Rack (FIR) on the International Space Station (ISS). The LMM will be the first integrated payload with the FIR to conduct four fluid physics experiments. A description of the LMM diagnostic capabilities, including video microscopy, interferometry, laser tweezers, confocal, and spectrophotometry, will be provided.


Biodiversity represents the basis of all life on our planet or in a specific area. It is clear that natural resources do not last forever. Turkey is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the temperate zone. More than one third of species found in Turkey are endemic, native to the region. So Turkey is like a kind of small continent in terms of biodiversity. It is also rich as biodiversity with 120 mammals, 469 bird species, 130 reptiles, 400 fishes and 4000 endemic of 11000 plants species. However, this gene pool is threatened by genetic erosion as in some other parts of the world. The primary objective of germplasm conservation depends on genetic diversity. The importance of biodiversity is highlighted.


Abstract : Maritime Intercept Operations in defense of the Pacific Coast Ports are resource intensive. A maritime threat scenario, analytical models, and simulations are used to measure risk to a port given various levels of resource and intelligence. The scenario starts with intelligence that a large commercial ship arriving to a Pacific Coast Port within a 96-hour window poses a security risk. Intelligence further limits the set of threat ships to a subset of all traffic entering a specific port. A limited number of Maritime Operational Threat Response (MOTR) forces are available to detect, classify, and intercept the threat ship before it reaches port. In the first scenario, all ships are boarded before entering port, and impact is measured by delay of ships into port. In the other scenarios, intercept ships are routed to suspect ships and risk measured by the fraction of suspect ships that proceed to port unboarded because of lack of MOTR and surveillance assets. The results show current Coast Guard force structure is not sufficient to protect the Pacific Coast Ports against unspecific security threats without additional assets from the MOTR stakeholders or increased intelligence to limit the target set.


The Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement) requires World Trade Organization (WTO) members to grant patents in all fields of technology. A large number of patents covering genes, including of human origin, have been issued in developed countries. In some cases, patents granted cover any possible use of the gene, even if not disclosed in the application. However, WTO members enjoy a significant flexibility to determine their policy regarding gene patents. The TRIPS Agreement does not define what an "invention" is; it does not determine either how the novelty and other patentability requirements are to be applied. Hence, national laws may exclude genes, even if claimed as isolated, altogether from patent protection. If gene patents were issued, they may nonetheless apply limitations to the scope of claims, such as circumscribing protection to the uses specifically claimed by the applicant. An exception based on moral considerations is also viable, particularly in the case of human genes. In view of this flexibility, countries may adopt the policies on this subject that best suit their cultural and moral values and their technological or industrial policies.


A two-wavelength integrated laser diode (TWINLD) with aluminum-free active areas (AAA) has been realized by monolithically combining two different laser material structures in a single chip utilizing the metalorganic chemical vapor deposition growth and regrowth techniques. The single TWINLD chip comprises two ridge wave-guide lasers, one is an InGaP/InGaAlP material structure for a 650 nm red laser, and another is an InGaAsP/AlGaAs material structure with AAA for a 780 nm infrared laser. The chip geometry is 300 μm long and 300 μm wide with a separation of 150 μm between two laser emission spots. The ridge widths are 3.5 and 2 μm for the red and IR laser, respectively, and both lasers emit a single transverse mode with a threshold current of 12 mA for a 650 nm laser and 14 mA for a 780 nm laser under continuous wave operation condition.


Recent years have brought a significant increase in public awareness of the issue of poor air quality in Poland. It is understandable that this problem has a direct impact on the quality of life of citizens of this country. Over the last few decades a concern over the health effects associated with air pollution was growing, mainly due to their carcinogenic and mutagenic properties. Various actions initiated by non-governmental organizations forced the authorities to undertake certain measures aimed at improving the quality of air in Poland, which, in the reports of the European Environment Agency is listed as one of the most polluted countries in the entire European Union. A model example here is the Krakow agglomeration. The city, located in a basin extending in the Vistula valley, surrounded on three sides by hills, in the cold period of the year struggles with the problem of poor air quality (very high concentrations of particulate matter and benzo(a)pyrene).

The objective of this research was better characterization of two major elements responsible for poor air quality in Krakow agglomeration: existing sources of pollution and  local meteorology during heating season (HS) and  non-heating season (NHS). Samples were collected with 24h resolution using Low-Vol samplers in Krakow (50°00'38.1"N 19°56'57.1"E, Kurdwanow, Malopolska, South Poland) from February 2014 to January 2015. Based on the results of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, cations, anions, mercury, organic and elemental carbon analyzes of samples of particulate matter collected in the city’s atmosphere, sources have been identified and classified them from the most to the least significant ones. The modeling tool Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory model (HYSPLIT), developed by NOAA’s Air Resources Laboratory, was used to investigate the possible trajectories of air pollutants.

This research was partially financed by the AGH UST grant 18.104.22.1686 subsidy of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. PF and AS have been partly supported by the EU Project POWR.03.02.00-00-I004/16. The infrastructure of the AGH Center of Energy in Kraków was applied in order to determine the concentration of ions.


ABSTRACT Streptococcus pneumoniae causes invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD), leading to high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although nonvaccine serotypes constitute a major issue in the aspect of invasive pneumococcal disease, serotypes included in PCV13 still continue to be a problem. Vaccination with very high coverage and multicenter surveillance studies would be beneficial to decrease carriage of vaccine and nonvaccine serotypes of pneumococcus and monitor changing seroepidemiology.


We investigate the single-photon transport properties of a one-dimensional coupled cavity array (CCA) containing a single qubit in its central site by coupling the CCA to two transmission lines supporting propagating bosonic modes with linear dispersion. We find that even in the nominally weak light-matter coupling regime, the transmission through a long array exhibits two ultra-narrowresonances corresponding to long-lived, self-protected polaritonic states localized around the site containing the qubit. The lifetime of these states is found to increase exponentially with the number of array sites, in sharp distinction to the polaritonic Bloch modes of the cavity array.


A methodology of enhanced computational efficiency is presented for continuum topology optimization of sparse structural systems. Such systems are characterized by the structural material occupying only a small fraction of the structure's envelope volume. When modeled within a continuum mechanics and topology optimization framework such structures require models of very high refinement which is computationally very expensive. The methodology presented to deal with this issue is based on the idea of starting with a relatively coarse mesh of low refinement and employing a sequence of meshes featuring progressively greater degrees of uniform refinement. One starts by solving for an initial approximation to the final material layout on the coarse mesh. This design is then projected onto the next finer mesh in the sequence, and the material layout optimization process is continued. The material layout design from the second mesh can then be projected onto the third mesh for additional refinement, and so forth. The process terminates when an optimal design of sufficient sparsity, and sufficient mesh resolution is achieved. Within the proposed methodology, additional computational efficiency is realized by using a design-dependent analysis problem reduction technique. As one proceeds toward sparse optimal designs, very large regions of the structural model will be devoid of any structural material and hence can be excluded from the structural analysis problem resulting in great computational efficiency. The validity and performance characteristics of the proposed methodology are demonstrated on three different problems, two involving design of sparse structures for buckling stability, and the third involving design of a hinge-free gripper compliant mechanism.


Abstract Although World Glacier Inventory (WGI) data for 241 local glaciers (>1 km2 in area) in Svalbard show a mean aspect of 014˚ ± 24˚, their mid-altitudes are lowest for an aspect of 109˚ ± 46˚, which is inconsistent. Further data are generated here for the altitude, length and source aspect of 205 local glaciers (0.3–6.0 km long) in the main area of local glaciation in Svalbard, Nordenskiöld Land. All four mountain blocks have mean glacier source aspects of 356˚ to 018˚; the overall mean is 011˚ ± 8˚. Mid-altitudes are lowest at 042˚ ±21˚, predicted to be 53 m lower than on opposite aspects. Lowest altitudes are predicted at 009˚ to 030˚, averaging 157 m lower than on opposite aspects. These results show that local, land-terminating glaciers around 78˚ N are affected more by north-south radiation receipt contrasts than by wind effects, consistent with the trend found across most other Arctic regions. It is concluded that, although weaker than in mid-latitudes, contrasts due to slope climates are substantial even in Arctic glaciers. This is apparent only when small, steep glaciers are inventoried: WGI data are incomplete and users need to check the thresholds of coverage.


Heart sounds can be obtained in various ways. A recent modality is airborne ultrasound echo Doppler, which has been used either in a pulsed wave mode or a continuous wave mode. In the present work we analyse the continuous wave ultrasound echo from the chest. In 10 subjects a piezo ultrasound transceiver was used to transmit a 40 kHz acoustic sine wave directed to the chest wall. The reflected signal (echo) was recorded with a microphone and sampled at 1 MHz. The FM modulated echo was demodulated in MatLab using a quadrature signal. The signal thus obtained represented the chest displacement, which was subdivided into three frequency bands: respiration (below 0.5 Hz), movement of the myocardium (>1 Hz) and valve sounds (30–100 Hz). Above 100 Hz the signal decayed by 20 dB/decade with a noise floor above 1–2 kHz. Interestingly, signals obtained directly from the skin and signals obtained through a thin layer of clothes were similar. Non-contact continuous-wave echo Doppler thus is a promising new modality for the recording of heart sounds, although its true potential has to be further investigated.


Background: We examined perceived health status and physical and psychological well-being of 3,271 undergraduate students attending eleven faculties in a university in Egypt. Methods: During 2009-2010, participants completed a self-administered questionnaire that gathered socio-demographic, physical and psychological health data. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from students' measured height and weight. Differences across these variables were computed by gender and participating faculties. Results: Whilst more females watched and rated their health favorably, they were more likely to feel psychosomatic/physical health problems, to have seen a medical practitioner or been ill that they had to stay in bed. Females were consistently more likely to feel burdened overall, and across several aspects apart from financial problems. Less females had 'normal' BMI, were satisfied with current weight, perceived their body image as 'just right', or were not worried about their shape. More males rated their quality of life favorably. About 25% of males and 32% of females were either overweight/obese. Exams, presentations, and the lack of time for studies were the frequently-reported burdens. Comparisons of health/well-being indicators across the participating faculties suggested some evidence of 'clustering': Favorable indicators would cluster at some faculties; and conversely, less favorable variables would cluster at other faculties. Conclusions: Generally, the levels of some health complaints and psychological problems/burdens are higher than in other countries. Increased vigilance of university administrators and leaders to monitoring the health and well-being of their students, as well as their health needs is required if policy makers are to operate from a valid evidence base platform. Given cultural factors prevalent in the Eastern Mediterranean region generally, female students might require particular attention. The clustering effects suggest the need for local (faculty-specific) health and well-being profiles as basis and guidance for relevant health promotion programs in faculty/university settings.


quoted laboratory experiments of Brodie and Dixon fail us. As to whether the results of stimulation of the vagus are a "complete representation of all the essential phenomena of asthma," will depend upon what phenomena we regard as essential. For mie, the circulatory phenomena are quite essential. Have these been reproduced in laboratory asthma? Dr. Gibson consider-s it an " interesting fact tllat there is no experimental evidence in favouir of a hyperaemic paroxysm." If he restricts experimental evidence to laboratory experiments on animals, I can only ask, Has such evideince ever been looked for? It may well be that the laboratory experts lhave hitherto been no more conversgnt with the vasomotor tlheory of asthma than was Dr. Gibson hiimself a week or so ago. If, on the other hand, it is permissible to collect experimental evidence also in the hospital ward, then Dr. Gibson is incorrect in denying the existence of experimental evidence supporting hyperaemic obstruction. In my letter of November 25th I pointed out that the asthmatic paroxysmn may be relieved by reversing its responsible vasomotor conditions. namely, by relaxing the cutaneous vaso-constriction by miieans of lheat to the skin, while simultaneously constricting the bronchial vaso-dilation by causing the patient to inhale cold air; also, that thle paroyxsmn may be seriously accentuated by reversing these thermal mneasures. We muay -go further, however. The reversed thermal measures-namely, cold of any kind to the ,kin lv1us the simultanieous inlhalation of hot air or vapour -are ample in many asthmatics to initiate an asthmatic paroxysm during-a period of respiritory freedom. The experiment is distressina, but not, I think, very dangerous, since it can be at once termninated by reversing the thermal conditions. The only difficulty likely to be encountered is obtaininig the patient's consent. One has to be selected who is sufficiently imbued with scientific curiosity. But the outstanding advantage of the experiment is that it is performed on the hiuman subject and tunder conditions which are apt to occur in ordinary life -the which can certainly not be said of laboratory experimiients on the lower animals. But it may well be asked whetlher any suclh clinical experimiient is really necessary; for the esselntial thermal conditions are continually being reproduced indeliberately, and their results will be found, if looked for, in tlle histories of many asthmatics. How m-iany asthmatics have naot been forced to abandon cold bathing through its tendency to start a paroxysm? And how many have not been attacked by their familiar dyspnoea on suddenly entering a hot room? The well-known habits of chronic asthmatics arise, for the most part, through the extreme facility witlh which their vasomotor balance is upset. Their tendency to encase themselves in flannel indicates the necessity for mnaintaining dilated the cutaneous periphery; their craze for open windows during a paroxysm results from the relief they obtaiii by inlhaling cold air. Explain these two divergent tlherm-lal influences to thle patient, and tlheniceforward, if lhe continues to suffer, lie will combine them, tlhereby lhalving hiis respiratory distress. May I say, in conclusion, that I entered on this discussion through Dr. Gibson's clhallenge to adduce "one single fact in favour of sudden engorgement of the bronchial mucous membrane."1 In my reply,2 I gave twenty facts arranged under eleven heads, all of which are readily explained by the vasomotor theory, but few of whichl have aniy special meaning wlhen considered in the light of the theory of broncllial spasm. Yet Dr. Gibson lhas hitlherto conitroverted none of these facts. He is content to state his opinion that " not one of the eleven heads . . is antagonistic to the view " he advocates. Now, I submit that something is called for beyond the unsupported expression of Dr. Gibs;on's opinion, valuable as that undoubtedly is. For examiiple, he might show how the facts adduced by me and undisputed by him can be made to harmonize with the theory of bronclhial spasm. Or, on the other hand, he mnight himself adduce a single clinical fact which supports the bronchial-spasm theory but which cannot be explained by the theory of vasomotor action.-I am, etc.,


Radomes are usually made of lossy dielectric materials, and their accurate analysis is often cumbersome because of their typical large electrical size and geometrical complexity. In real reflector antenna structures, there are always complex interactions between the radome, the reflector surfaces and the directional feeds, which are typically neglected for the sake of simplicity. In this paper we will consider all such interactions in a very accurate way, thus requiring a high number of unknowns for the numerical solution of the problem. To overcome such drawback, an integral equation formulation based on the Equivalence Principle in combination with the wavelet transform has been employed, obtaining finally a robust and accurate CAD tool for the rigorous analysis of arbitrarily shaped radomes containing continuous and discrete electromagnetic sources. It will be shown that the use of wavelet‐like bases substantially improves the numerical efficiency and memory requirements of the original integral equation method. For verification purposes, the results obtained with the new technique are successfully compared with examples taken from the literature. Complex antenna structures are then discussed in order to prove the usefulness of the new method.


One of the Survey Science Projects that the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) telescope will do in its first few years of operation is a study of the 21-cm line of HI and the 18-cm lines of OH in the Galactic Plane and the Magellanic Clouds and Stream. The wide-field ASKAP can survey a large area with very high sensitivity much faster than a conventional telescope because of its focal plane array of receiver elements. The brightness sensitivity for the widespread spectral line emission of the interstellar medium depends on the beam size and the survey speed. In the GASKAP survey, maps with different resolutions will be synthesized simultaneously; these will be matched to different scientific applications such as diffuse HI and OH emission, OH masers, and HI absorption toward background continuum sources. A great many scientific questions will be answered by the GASKAP survey results; a central topic is the exchange of matter and energy between the Milky Way disk and halo. The survey will show how neutral gas at high altitude (z) above the disk, like the Magellanic Stream, makes its way down through the halo, what changes it experiences along the way, and how much is left behind.


The document layout analysis (DLA) aims to split the document image into different interest regions and understand the role of each region, which has wide application such as optical character recognition (OCR) systems and document retrieval. However, it is a challenge to build a DLA system because the training data is very limited and lacks an efficient model. In this paper, we propose an end-to-end united network named Dynamic Residual Fusion Network (DRFN) for the DLA task. Specifically, we design a dynamic residual feature fusion module which can fully utilize low-dimensional information and maintain high-dimensional category information. Besides, to deal with the model overfitting problem that is caused by lacking enough data, we propose the dynamic select mechanism for efficient fine-tuning in limited train data. We experiment with two challenging datasets and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed module.


ABSTRACT Social work practice makes up part of modern people processing organisations. In their role of a person-related service provider, professionals intervene into the life circumstances of a clientele who regularly suffers from emotionally distressing experiences and critical thresholds of their living conditions. Emotions (one's own and those of the other) are therefore part of the professionals' everyday life experiences. Social workers must deal with contingent situations and social relationships frequently shaped by affection and multiple feelings that are only partly predictable. This paper aims to make analytically palpable the mostly ordinary and unobtrusive display of emotional states of the participants during a professional/client encounter. It argues that emotions are pervasively present in the professional/client interaction and that their management is pivotal to realise and secure a stable and resilient working relationship as a bedrock for sustained activities in a series. Based on two longer transcripts of audio-recorded German childcare planning conferences (CPC) referring to residential care it will be shown how feelings and emotions are locally managed in situ supporting the clients' respect and self-esteem during an institutionally goal-driven meeting even if they do not refer to them in an explicit or verbal kind.


Background: High turnover among Japanese nurses is a significant issue. In 2012, 191,000 nurses joined the profession, while up to 161,000 left. If this trend continues, healthcare service delivery could be severely impacted. However, it is not clear why Japanese nurses leave the profession. There are no systematic reviews clarifying the complex interrelated personal, organizational, and socio-cultural factors that contribute to nurse turnover in Japan. Such insight may help when developing policies in response to this public health issue. Objective: This study aimed to identify factors affecting Japanese nurses' intention to leave their current position and/or the career as a whole. Methods: A structured review was conducted by researching primary research articles (in English-speaking journals) between 2006 and 2016. Four databases and Google Scholar were used to identify quantitative and qualitative studies focused on describing factors contributing to nursing turnover in Japan. Papers were screened and appraised using appropriate tools. A narrative synthesis was applied to papers included in the review. A thematic analysis was conducted on the findings from each paper. Results: Ten papers were included in the review. Three themes emerged: personal factors, socio-cultural factors, and organizational factors. Relationships between these factors were identified, including associations with burnout and job dissatisfaction. Key factors contributing to job dissatisfaction and burnout included perceived unsuitability to the job, poor work environment, inadequate quality of care, low remuneration, and inexperience. Conclusion: Various strategies may be implemented to address nurses' intent to leave, including career development and training, flexible working arrangements, improved interpersonal relationships in the workplace, recognition of one's work, health and wellness courses, and other educational programmers. Generalization regarding each particular nurse's decision to leave his or her job, or the profession, is difficult to make. The interplay between various subjective and objective factors needs to be considered.


Using galaxy samples drawn from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey and the DEEP2 Galaxy Redshift Survey, we study the relationship between star formation and environment at z ∼ 0.1 and 1. We estimate the total star formation rate (SFR) and specific star formation rate (sSFR) for each galaxy according to the measured [O II] λ 3727 A nebular line luminosity, corrected using empirical calibrations to match more robust SFR indicators. Echoing previous results, we find that in the local Universe star formation depends on environment such that galaxies in regions of higher overdensity, on average, have lower SFRs and longer star formation time-scales than their counterparts in lower density regions. At z ∼ 1, we show that the relationship between sSFR and environment mirrors that found locally. However, we discover that the relationship between total SFR and overdensity at z ∼ 1 is inverted relative to the local relation. This observed evolution in the SFR-density relation is driven, in part, by a population of bright, blue galaxies in dense environments at z ∼ 1. This population, which lacks a counterpart at z ∼ 0, is thought to evolve into members of the red sequence from z ∼ 1 to ∼ 0. Finally, we conclude that environment does not play a dominant role in the cosmic star formation history at z < 1: the dependence of the mean galaxy SFR on local galaxy density at constant redshift is small compared to the decline in the global SFR space density over the last 7 Gyr.