Healthy aging is a condition to be achieved by those who deal with the changes of aging. This paper analyzes the construction of self-care actions of older people relating to the concepts of the Theory of Nola Pender. Qualitative, poetics, with a research group composed of 11 elderly participants of Unati, the State of Rio de Janeiro in 2009. The data obtained through artistic techniques were analyzed categorical poetics. RESULTS: There was to take care of itself is a resource to meet theirs own needs. Difficult task, especially in old age understood, by a process of continuous change to regain balance. It was concluded that the model of Pender is a proposal to integrate the science of nursing behavior, identifying the factors that influence health behaviors. It is also a guide to explore the motivation or motivation of older people to engage in self-promoting behaviors in healthy aging.


We study CsPbI3 perovskite nanocrystals using polarization-resolved 2D coherent spectroscopy at cryogenic temperatures. Coherences involving triplet exciton states are revealed and characterized, including inter-triplet coherences with dephasing times on the picosecond timescale. © 2019 The Author(s)


In photosynthetic cells, a large amount of hydrogen peroxide is produced in peroxisomes through photorespiration, which is a metabolic pathway related to photosynthesis. Hydrogen peroxide, a reactive oxygen species, oxidizes peroxisomal proteins and membrane lipids, resulting in a decrease in peroxisomal quality. We demonstrate that the autophagic system is responsible for the elimination of oxidized peroxisomes in plant. We isolated Arabidopsis mutants that accumulated oxidized peroxisomes, which formed large aggregates. We revealed that these mutants were defective in autophagy-related (ATG) genes and that the aggregated peroxisomes were selectively targeted by the autophagic machinery. These findings suggest that autophagy plays an important role in the quality control of peroxisomes by the selective degradation of oxidized peroxisomes. In addition, the results suggest that autophagy is also responsible for the functional transition of glyoxysomes to leaf peroxisomes.


The functional activity of B and T lymphocytes from the blood of eight patients, who had successfully been treated with allogeneic bone marrow for severe aplastic anaemia or acute leukaemia, was studied in pokeweed mitogen (PWM) driven polyclonal immunoglobulin synthesis. Activity of B cells was measured as IgM and IgG synthesis by a standard number (40 X 10(3] of patient lymphocytes in the presence or absence of healthy donor T cells. In addition, the frequency of PWM reactive B cells, giving rise to IgM and/or IgG producing daughter cells, was estimated by limiting dilution analysis. With this method, it was found that only a small percentage (1-3%) of peripheral blood B cells from healthy individuals is reactive to PWM. In the patients, both parameters for B cell reactivity were decreased during the first 40 weeks after bone marrow transplantation. As parameters for T cell activity, help and suppression on the Ig production by healthy donor lymphocytes were tested. In most patients, T helper cell activity was strongly decreased, whereas some patients had excessive T suppressor cell activity. The observed functional activities were only partially correlated with the marker profile of the T cell populations, as detected by reactivity with monoclonal antibodies. Each patient had a distinct, individual pattern of reconstitution of these functions. There was no positive correlation between Ig production in vitro and the capacity to form antibodies in vivo, nor between the other in vitro findings and clinical features, such as the occurrence of infections or graft versus host disease.


Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC

Background:

Defects in the p53-signaling checkpoint have been described in 30-60% of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and are associated with less differentiated tumors and poor prognosis. The contribution of p53 deletion by itself to hepatocarcinogenesis is not known. Furthermore it is not clear, if liver stem cells play a role in the onset of liver tumor formation.

Methods:

We generated mice with liver specific TRP53 deletion (TRP53−/−) by crossing conditional TRP53 KO mice with AlfpCRE transgenic mice (CRE expression under the albumin-alphafetoprotein-enhancer-promoter). In vitro cultures were established from the developing liver tumors and analyzed for potential tumor stem cells using xenotransplantation. Endogenous liver stem/progenitor cells were analysed using FACS purification and in vitro culturing of purified liver stem cells (CD13+CD133+CD49f+).

Results:

Mice with liver specific TRP53 deletion developed liver tumors with a mixed differentiation (hepatocellular and cholangiocellular carcinoma). Purification and xenotransplantation of subpopulations of tumor cells from primary tumor cell cultures (using following surface marker: CD13, CD90, CD133, or cKit) revealed no differences in tumor forming capacity in NMRI nu/nu mice. Moreover, tumor formation was seen after xenotransplantation of very small tumor cell numbers (2-cells) indicating that the tumors have an inherent high tumor forming capacity.

An analysis of the colony formation capacity of endogenous liver stem/progenitor cells revealed a prolonged survival of bipotent liver stem cells in aged TRP53−/− mice compared to TRP53+/− or TRP53+/+ mice. The last two groups showed a complete loss of bipotent liver stem cells by 8 month of age, whereas bipotent liver stem cells were detected with a frequency of 0,4% in liver of 8-10 month old TRP53−/− mice.

Conclusion:

This study provides the first experimental evidence that TRP53 deletion leads to a prolonged survival of bipotent liver stem cells and the formation of bi-differentiated liver tumors. These data indicate that the p53-dependent tumor suppressor functions include the restriction of proliferation and survival of bipotent stem cells in the liver.

Note: This abstract was not presented at the AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010 because the presenter was unable to attend.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4242.


Background: Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to perceive, integrate, understand and regulate emotions and has the potential for serving as a theoretical basis for understanding how to enhance task performance (TP) through the role of emotions. Previous research highlights countless benefits of EI, specifically in relation to performance outcomes. Objective: The aim of the current study was to explore potential interaction effects of EI, Mental Workload (MWL) and age on performance outcomes of a cognitive task and whether EI or age influenced the perception of MWL. Method: A 3 (Emotional Intelligence: low, average, and high) x 3 (Mental Workload: easy, medium, and hard) x 3 (Age: younger adulthood, middle adulthood, and older adulthood) mixed design was employed where EI and age were between-subjects' variables and MWL was the within subjects' variable. Results: A significant effect of MWL, which finds performance decreases as MWL increases. A significant effect of age was found, whereby errors made increased with age. There was a significant interaction between MWL and age revealing that older adulthood consistently made more errors than younger adulthood across all levels of MWL. A significant effect of EI, whereby participants high in EI made the most errors. A significant interaction between EI and age and a significant effect of EI on subjective MWL which finds perceptions of workload decreases as EI increases. Conclusions: Two major novel findings emerged from this study. First, performance outcomes were worse for those highest in EI. Second, younger adulthood with average EI made the least amount of errors on the task. These findings are not consistent with the body of literature regarding EI and performance.


In aerated soils, pH is considered to control available nutrients to plants. Also, pH is related to soil charges and is a key property expanding double layers of colloids. These electrochemical properties are affected by soil management and are related to soil physical properties like water-dispersible clay, aggregation indexes, and infiltration rate. Water-dispersible colloids are the fraction of clay that disperse in water and are affected by nature of soil including mineralogy of clay fraction, soil management in terms of crop sequence, application of organic manures, field traffic, and mechanical stress by time of shaking for the analysis. Traffic of machines, soil tillage, and weed control methods are the main causes of change in soil physical properties in coffee crop. However, management of soil acidity with limestone and use of gypsum also can change soil physical and electrochemical properties, which are related with dynamic processes like soil air and hydraulic permeability into soil which are essential to root development and growth. Therefore, soil management in coffee crops requires comprehension of the effects of changes in soils caused by addition of amendments like limestone and gypsum, traffic of machines, and weed control methods on behavior of soil properties for better management.


BACKGROUND
It is well established that resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP, respectively) increases as one ages. This study used the meta-analytic approach to examine the effects of aerobic exercise for reducing resting SBP and DBP in older adults.

METHODS
Study data were compiled through use of the following: (i) computer searches (MEDLINE, Current Contents, and Sport Discus), (ii) cross-referencing from bibliographies of retrieved studies and review articles, and (iii) an expert who reviewed our reference list. Inclusion criteria and sources for this study were (i) randomized trials, (ii) aerobic activity as the only exercise intervention, (iii) a nonexercise control group, (iv) an assessment of changes in resting SBP and/or DBP, (v) within-study ages of subjects > or = 50 years, (vi) English-language studies published in journals, and (vii) studies published between January 1966 and January 1998. Net changes in resting BP were calculated as the exercise minus control group difference.

RESULTS
Fourteen primary outcomes were derived from seven studies. Decreases of approximately 2% and 1% were found for resting SBP and DBP, with only changes in SBP as statistically significant (SBP, mean +/- SD = -2 +/- 3 mm Hg, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -4 to -1 mm Hg; DBP, mean +/- SD = -1 +/- 2 mm Hg, 95% CI = -2 to 0 mm Hg).

CONCLUSIONS
This study supports the efficacy of aerobic exercise for reducing resting SBP in older adults. However, a need exists for studies that address the effectiveness of this intervention for reducing resting BP in older adults.


Crosshole resistivity tomography has been trialled at the Bolivar site north of Adelaide to delineate aquifer properties and preferential flow paths associated with artificial recharge and recovery operations. To date only the pre-storage electrical measurements have been carried out, but follow-up monitoring and background subtraction will be conducted at various stages of pumping to delineate storm-water injection and harvesting from the aquifer. This paper presents the results of the resistivity imaging experiments before water injection at the Bolivar site. The resistivity imaging experiment has entailed crosshole profiling and scanning with a specified bipole-bipole electrode array between four pairs of boreholes located on a circle of a radius of 75 metres from the water injection well, and the data were inverted for the resistivity structure of the aquifer using a new imaging scheme. The four resistivity images obtained between each pair of boreholes show a somewhat similar pattern, with alternative zones of high and low resistivity within the aquifer. There are at least five zones which can be recognised. They correlate with the major subdivisions found from geophysical logging of the boreholes and correspond with the stratigraphy of the T2-aquifer, which consists of variably cemented fine carbonate and sandstone layers.


Abstract. Highland crater Lalande (4.45° S, 8.63° W; D = 23.4 km) is located on the PKT area of the lunar near side, southeast of Mare Insularum. It is a complex crater in Copernican era and has three distinguishing features: high silicic anomaly, highest Th abundance and special landforms on its floor. There are some low-relief bulges on the left of crater floor with regular circle or ellipse shapes. They are ~ 250 to 680 m wide and ~ 30 to 91 m high with maximum flank slopes > 20°. There are two possible scenarios for the formation of these low-relief bulges which are impact melt products or young silicic volcanic eruptions. According to the absolute model ages of ejecta, melt ponds and hummocky floor, the ratio of diameter and depth, similar bugle features within other Copernican-aged craters and lack of volcanic source vents, we hypothesized that these low-relief bulges were most consistent with an origin of impact melts during the crater formation instead of small and young volcanic activities occurring on the crater floor. Based on Kaguya TC ortho-mosaic and DTM data produced by TC imagery in stereo, geological units and some linear features on the floor and wall of Lalande have been mapped. Eight geological units are organized by crater floor units: hummocky floor, central peak and low-relief bulges; and crater wall units: terraced walls, channeled and veneered walls, interior walls, mass wasting areas, blocky areas, and melt ponds. These geological units and linear features at Lalande provided us a chance to understand some details of the cratering process and elevation differences on the floor. We evaluated several possibilities to understand the potential causes for the observed elevation differences on the Lalande's floor. We proposed that late-stage wall collapse and subsidence due to melt cooling could be the possible causes of observed elevation differences on the floor.


CHARGE syndrome patients present features of idiopathic scoliosis in over 60% of cases, reduced bone mineral density and in a few cases osteopenia. While several clinical cases and studies regarding the spinal deformities in CHARGE syndrome bearing CHD7 mutations are well-documented, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we detect and quantitatively analyze skeletal abnormalities in adult and young chd7-/- larvae. We show that young chd7-/- larvae present with scoliosis and kyphosis already at 9 dpf. Gene expression analysis confirmed the reduction of osteoblast markers and Pparγ targets. MicroCT analyses identified abnormal Weberian apparatus structure and vertebral body morphology in chd7-/- mutants, with highly mineralized inclusions, along with variances in bone mineral density and bone volume. Additionally, we detect a specific depletion of Col2a1a in the zebrafish vertebral cartilage, in line with a significantly reduced number of chondrocytes. Our study is the first to elucidate the mechanisms underlying morphological changes in vertebrae of adult chd7-/- zebrafish and decreased spinal integrity. The chd7-/- zebrafish will be beneficial in future investigations of the underlying pathways of spinal deformities in CHARGE syndrome.


Development in technology bring digital world to be border-less. It's proven through a developed technology, when trade and transaction can be done not only using real money but also virtual one. Shopping process using virtual money has even more supported by existed Near Field Communication (NFC) device. This particular device works using radio frequency. In the year of 2011, Google was integrating this device into a Android-based cell phone, which made transactions using virtual money gradually developed. E-Ticket is one of the utmost services in online trading. E-ticket is basically a paper-less electronic document, which commonly used for passenger tickets of a transportation system. One of the aims in using NFC in daily life can be implemented within public transportation application. This particular research offers a application prototype for train ticket purchasing and exterminating that use a Near Field Communication (NFC) integrated cell phone. This train ticketing application integrated with NFC device that had been planted in an Android 2.3.3 Operation System based cell phone. Designed system made for passenger interface and train conductor interface. NFC technology applied within two created applications. Cell phone that is used within this research is Google Nexus S, which has been integrated with NFC device; therefore created application can provide a circumstance where applications for passenger and conductor are able to work as a single entity of train ticketing application.


Background—Brugada syndrome (BrS) is associated with lethal arrhythmias, which are linked to specific ST-segment changes (type-1 BrS-ECG) and the right ventricle (RV). The pathophysiological basis of the arrhythmias and type-1 BrS-ECG is unresolved. We studied the electrophysiological characteristics of the RV endocardium in BrS. Methods and Results—RV endocardial electroanatomical mapping and stimulation studies were performed in controls (n=12) and BrS patients with a type-1 (BrS-1, n=10) or type-2 BrS-ECG (BrS-2, n=12) during the studies. BrS-1 patients had prominent impairment of RV endocardial impulse propagation when compared with controls, as represented by: (1) prolonged activation-duration during sinus rhythm (86±4 versus 65±3 ms), (2) increased electrogram fractionation (1.36±0.04 versus 1.15±0.01 deflections per electrogram), (3) longer electrogram duration (83±3 versus 63±2 ms), (4) activation delays on premature stimulation (longitudinal: 160±26 versus 86±9 ms; transversal: 112±5 versus 58±6 ms), and (5) abnormal transversal conduction velocity restitution (42±8 versus 18±2 ms increase in delay at shortest coupling intervals). Wider and more fractionated electrograms were also found in BrS-2 patients. Repolarization was not different between groups. Conclusions—BrS-1 and BrS-2 patients are characterized by wide and fractionated electrograms at the RV endocardium. BrS-1 patients display additional conduction slowing during sinus rhythm and premature stimulation along with abnormal transversal conduction velocity restitution. These patients may thus exhibit a substrate for slow and discontinuous conduction caused by abnormal active membrane processes and electric coupling. Our findings support the emerging notion that BrS is not solely attributable to abnormal electrophysiological properties but requires the conspiring effects of conduction slowing and tissue discontinuities.


In its pulmonary form, sarcoidosis generally resolves spontaneously, but it may lead to fibrosis of the lung. The clinical, radiological and functional tests, as well as activity markers such as the serum angiotensin converting enzyme, intrathoracic uptake of 67Gallium and the cytological data provided by bronchoalveolar lavage are only the expressions at any given time of a disease which is constantly progressing and only partly express its evolutive potential. The authors studied the distribution of T-lymphocyte subsets in the peripheral blood and from bronchoalveolar lavage. 32 patients were included in the study. They were suffering from acute or chronic sarcoidosis of the mediastinum and lungs and were divided into 2 groups according to clinical, radiological and pulmonary function criteria; Group A (n = 19) included regressive forms (minimum follow up 2 years) and group B (n = 13) the progressive untreated forms. Lymphopenia with a decrease in the percentage of CD3 cells was found in both groups. The percentage of CD4 cells is significantly lower in group B (28 +/- 11%) than in group A (45 +/- 8%) (p < 0.01) or in the control population (46 +/- 8%) (p < 0.01). The percentage of CD8 cells is higher in group B (30 +/- 8%) than in group A (18 +/- 6%). This results in a CD4/CD8 ratio which is significantly reduced in group B (1 +/- 0.5) when compared with group A (2.72 +/- 0.8) (p < 0.01) and the control group (2.17 +/- 0.8) (p < 0.01), the difference between group A and the controls being minimal.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the stability of milk flow curves and the volume of residual milk in relation to milk flow curves in breeds Tsigai, Improved Valachian, and Lacaune (n = 16 heads per breed) milked twice daily. Milk flow type stability was evaluated at morning milking (stabile milkings) during three successive days in the middle of two months (June, July). After the following fourth morning milking (OT milkings) in both months, oxytocin was injected intravenously at a dose of 2 UI. Afterwards the ewes were milked again in order to remove residual milk. The milk flow curves were classi- fied into four types: 1 peak (1P), 2 peaks (2P), plateau I (maximal milk flow over 0.4 l/min) (PLI), plateau II (maximal milk flow less than 0.4 l/min) (PLII). If all milk flow curves of one animal were of the same type within one month and within both months, respectively, the animal was characterized as the ewe with the stabile type of milk flow. Frequency of occurrence of single milk flow types (1P : 2P : PLI : PLII) during stabile milkings was 42 : 49 : 9 : 0% in June and 51 : 37.5 : 11.5 : 0% in July. 33 ewes (i.e. 69%) had the stabile type of milk flow within both months. But, more than 51% of them had 1P type of milk flow. Milk production varied according to milk flow curve during OT milkings (0.427 ± 0.015, 0.498 ± 0.024, and 0.655 ± 0.035 l for 1P, 2P, and PLI, respectively). The highest percentage of residual milk from total milk yield (RM/TMY) was observed in ewes with 1P (20.29 ± 0.85%), followed by ewes with PLI (12.31 ± 1.99%) and 2P (9.72 ± 1.36%) (P < 0.0001). Lacaune ewes had the lowest amount of residual milk (0.054 ± 0.006 l) and RM/TMY (9.86 ± 1.16%) compared to breeds Tsigai (0.088 ± 0.008 l; 16.47 ± 1.44%) and Improved Valachian (0.069 ± 0.010 l; 15.99 ± 1.78%) indicating their better udder emptying.


We conjecture a new set of analytic relations for scattering amplitudes in planar N=4 super Yang-Mills theory. They generalize the Steinmann relations and are expressed in terms of the cluster algebras associated to Gr(4,n). In terms of the symbol, they dictate which letters can appear consecutively. We study heptagon amplitudes and integrals in detail and present symbols for previously unknown integrals at two and three loops which support our conjecture.


We present a method to synthesize mRNAs from synthetic DNA templates that produce biologically active proteins. To illustrate utility, we constructed five unique synthetic DNA templates, produced mRNAs and demonstrated biologic activity of their translated proteins. Examples include secreted luciferase, enhanced green fluorescence protein, IL-4, and IL-12A and IL-12B to form active IL-12. We propose that this method offers a cost- and time-saving alternative to plasmid-based cloning.


The accumulation of apoptotic cells has been suggested as a possible mechanism of nucleosome conversion into self-antigens that may both initiate autoimmune responses and participate in immune complex deposition in lupus nephritis. In this study, we analyzed both the rate of transcription of apoptosis-related genes and the presence of activated apoptotic factors within kidneys of lupus-prone (NZBxNZW) F1 mice during disease progression. The results of this study demonstrated no activation of apoptotic pathways in kidneys of these lupus-prone mice at the time of appearance of anti-double standard DNA antibodies in serum, as well as the formation of mesangial immune deposits in glomeruli. In contrast, the transition of mesangial into membranoproliferative lupus nephritis coincided with an accumulation of activated caspase 3-positive cells in kidneys, in addition to a dramatic decrease in Dnase1 gene transcription. Highly reduced expression levels of the Dnase1 gene may be responsible for the accumulation of large chromatin-containing immune complexes in glomerular capillary membranes. Thus, the initiation of lupus nephritis is not linked to increased apoptotic activity in kidneys. The combined down-regulation of Dnase1 and the increased number of apoptotic cells, which is possibly due to their reduced clearance in affected kidneys, may together be responsible for the transformation of mild mesangial lupus nephritis into severe membranoproliferative, end-stage organ disease.


We investigate the incentives of manufacturers to use resale price maintenance
(RPM) when selling products through common retailers. In our model retailers
provide product specific pre-sales services. If the competitive retail margins are
low, each manufacturer fixes a minimum price to induce favorable retail services.
With symmetric manufacturers, products are equally profitable in equilibrium and
no product is favored as without RPM, but retail prices are higher. We show
that minimum RPM can create a prisoner's dilemma for manufacturers without
increasing, and possibly even decreasing the overall service quality. This challenges
the service argument as an efficiency defense for RPM.


The authors present an evaluation of over 20 years of MV cable operation in a distribution network. Failures were recorded on the XLPE insulated cables installed since 1973; all of them occurred on cables manufactured before 1976. These are cables with a semi-conducting taped screen. Statistics on these failures are presented. Examinations (for faults, water trees) and electrical tests (impulse and 50 Hz) were performed in the laboratory on many cables which had failed in service. The results are compared to those obtained on new 1975 cables. Water has been detected in most of the failed cables. A campaign of sheath watertightness testing was carried out on about 100 cable lines. This revealed various sheath defects and damages. Finally, measurements of transient phenomena were recorded on the most severely affected part of the network. Results emerging from a first analysis are discussed. The conclusion summarizes the life expectancy of XLPE insulated MV cable as well as the criteria used when cables have to be changed.


Background: Historically, substance misuse has been a serious problem faced by worldwide military personnel. Some research showed that military personnel have higher rates of unhealthy substance use than their age peers in the general population. These problems have serious consequences and may lead to significant military difficulties in the field of readiness, discipline, and mental or physical health. In this review, we gathered various methods for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of substance use disorders and suggested a comprehensive plan for Iran Armed Forces to improve existing services. Materials and Methods: This article is a narrative review study, which was carried out on 2016. A careful literature review was performed between January 1970 and April 2016 on several national and international databases. Articles were screened according to the following inclusion criteria: (1) review articles about prevention and treatment protocols, (2) executive guidance, (3) cohort articles about risk factors of addiction, and (4) randomized controlled trials about prevention or treatment of substance use disorders in army service members. After screening by title and abstract, 130 articles selected of 832 founded articles, and after quality assessment, finally, 63 articles included in the review. Results: There is a necessity to manage substance use disorder through prevention, screening, and then referral to proper services for diagnosis and treatment. Urinalysis programs for screening are cost-effective and should be considered as a main method. Effective treatment includes both behavioral and pharmacological methods. Conclusions: The ideal prevention program will include multiple and mutually reinforcing evidence-based universal, selective, and indicated attempts at both the individual and environmental levels. The implementation of screening and treatment strategies needs strict rules and national guideline for the comprehensive management of substance use disorders in army.


This technical note describes the recent updates of Graphormer, including architecture design modifications, and the adaption to 3D molecular dynamics simulation. The"Graphormer-V2"could attain better results on large-scale molecular modeling datasets than the vanilla one, and the performance gain could be consistently obtained on downstream tasks. In addition, we show that with a global receptive field and an adaptive aggregation strategy, Graphormer is more powerful than classic message-passing-based GNNs. Graphormer-V2 achieves much less MAE than the vanilla Graphormer on the PCQM4M quantum chemistry dataset used in KDD Cup 2021, where the latter one won the first place in this competition. In the meanwhile, Graphormer-V2 greatly outperforms the competitors in the recent Open Catalyst Challenge, which is a competition track on NeurIPS 2021 workshop, and aims to model the catalyst-adsorbate reaction system with advanced AI models. All models could be found at \url{https://github.com/Microsoft/Graphormer}.


We investigate the user-to-cell association (or user-clustering) and beamforming design for Cloud Radio Access Networks (CRANs) and Fog Radio Access Networks (FogRANs) for 5G. CRAN enables cloud centralized resource and power allocation optimization over all the small cells served by multiple Access Points (APs). However, the fronthaul links connecting each AP to the cloud introduce delays and cause outdated Channel State Information (CSI). By contrast, FogRAN enables lower latencies and better CSI qualities, at the cost of local optimization. To alleviate these issues, we propose a hybrid algorithm exploiting both the centralized feature of the cloud for globally-optimized pre-scheduling using outdated CSIs and the distributed nature of FogRAN for accurate beamforming with high quality CSIs. The centralized phase enables to consider the interference patterns over the global network, while the distributed phase allows for latency reduction. Simulation results show that our hybrid algorithm for FogRAN outperforms the centralized algorithm under imperfect CSI, both in terms of throughput and delays.


The invention relates to a mirror system with two mirrors and four reflections, comprising a concentrating reflector and a diffusion reflector fitted on the same optical axis, an image field and a detector. The concentrating reflector has a central drilling. The concentrating reflector reflects the light to the outer part of the diffusion reflector, from where the light is reflected on the concentrating reflector again, that reflects the light on the central part of the diffusion reflector, that in turn reflects the light through the central drilling to the image plane. Prior art twin- mirror systems like the Ritchey-Chretien system do not correct astigmatism, curvature of the image field and distortion. According to the invention spherical aberration, coma and astigmatism are corrected by double reflection at both mirrors, whereby the concentrating mirror and the outer part are hyperbolically shaped and whereby the inner part of the diffusion reflector is elliptical, spherical or ellipsoidal shaped. That depends from the axial radius of curvature of the diffusion mirror in relation to the distance between both mirrors. Hence--this shape depends from the overall focal length of the mirror system in relation to the paraxial focal length of the concentrating reflector.


Two photoswitchable compounds that can operate under visible light irradiation are prepared and investigated using spectroscopic and computational studies. These all-visible systems are based on the dimethyldihydropyrene (DHP) / cyclophanediene (CPD) photochromic couple connected either to a bipyridine (bpy) unit or to a (tris(bpy)ruthenium(II)) complex through a pyridinium bridge. In these compounds, the DHP to CPD isomerization and the reverse CPD to DHP conversion can be triggered by illumination with red (>630 nm) and blue (460 nm) light respectively. The unambiguous and reversible response of these systems triggered by visible light make them potential candidates for biological purposes and electronic devices.


Reversible protein phosphorylation on multiple sites is a key regulatory mechanism in most cellular processes. We consider here a kinase-phosphatase-substrate system with two sites, under mass-action kinetics, with no restrictions on the order of phosphorylation or dephosphorylation. We show that the concentrations of the four phosphoforms at steady state satisfy an algebraic formula-an invariant-that is independent of the other chemical species, such as free enzymes or enzyme-substrate complexes, and holds irrespective of the starting conditions and the total amounts of enzymes and substrate. Such invariants allow stringent quantitative predictions to be made without requiring any knowledge of site-specific parameter values. We introduce what we believe are novel methods from algebraic geometry-Gröbner bases, rational curves-to calculate invariants. These methods are particularly significant because they make it possible to treat parameters symbolically without having to specify their numerical values, and thereby allow us to sidestep the parameter problem. We anticipate that this approach will have much wider applications in biological modeling.


Obesity rates among Hispanic/Latino youth are 5-10% higher than Caucasian youth. Kick Start Your Day was a six-week intervention that was pilot tested in a low-income, predominantly Latino community. The intervention consisted of nutrition education for parents, fun physical activities for children, low glycemic breakfasts and snacks for parents and children, and bilingual resources (e.g., recipe books) to take home. Fifty-six Latino parents (n= 25 intervention, n= 31 control) and their children ages 6-12 participated, and completed both baseline and end-of-program self-report questionnaires. Logistic regression models were used to examine intervention effects on increases in nutrition knowledge, while linear regression models were used to examine intervention effects on changes in parents' and children's physical activity. All models adjusted for outcome scores at baseline. Results indicated that intervention group parents were more likely to learn that eating breakfast can help their child pay attention and can prevent moodiness, and that nutrition labels contain information about sodium content. Intervention group parents also had greater increases in vigorous physical activity. This study provided preliminary evidence that a low-cost, family-centered intervention can lead to increases in knowledge and behavior change.


Bhutan is the only country that has implemented a nationwide capture-neutervaccinate-release (CNVR) program to manage its street dog population. To explore motivations for the implementation of the program and the extent to which it is successful, face-to-face interviews were conducted with representatives of all three animal sanctuaries in Bhutan that focus on the well-being of street dogs. Results suggest that Bhutan's transition to democracy, coinciding with increases in socioeconomic development and tourism from the West, and incorporation of Buddhist teachings in its consideration of street dog management strategies guided the implementation of a nationwide CNVR program. A lack of both resources and a plan to acquire them, along with inexperience with democratic practices, however, may interfere with successful management of the program, resulting in a growing street dog population. Development in Bhutan also poses risks to the well-being of street dogs.


Recent years have witnessed a trend of secure processor design in both academia and industry. Secure processors with hardware-enforced isolation can be a solid foundation of cloud computation in the future. However, due to recent side-channel attacks, the commercial secure processors failed to deliver the promises of a secure isolated execution environment. Sensitive information inside the secure execution environment always gets leaked via side channels. This work considers the most powerful software-based side-channel attackers, i.e., an All Digital State Observing (ADSO) adversary who can observe all digital states, including all digital states in secure enclaves. Traditional signature schemes are not secure in ADSO adversarial model. We introduce a new cryptographic primitive called One-Time Signature with Secret Key Exposure (OTS-SKE), which ensures no one can forge a valid signature of a new message or nonce even if all secret session keys are leaked. OTS-SKE enables us to sign attestation reports securely under the ADSO adversary. We also minimize the trusted computing base by introducing a secure co-processor into the system, and the interaction between the secure co-processor and the attestation processor is unidirectional. That is, the co-processor takes no inputs from the processor and only generates secret keys for the processor to fetch. Our experimental results show that the signing of OTS-SKE is faster than that of Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) used in Intel SGX.


Drugs are pharmaceutical preparations that are much needed during the pandemic, such as today. There are so many pharmaceutical preparations circulating through internet-based media, which are not in accordance with applicable regulations so that they have big potential to cause bad impacts. There are various obstacles faced by the government in carrying out supervision of pharmaceutical preparations through the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency, especially related to online drug buying and selling activities. Some of these obstacles include good access to Indonesia's territory, the low level of public knowledge about drugs, low cross-sectoral supervision, and weak legislation. These weaknesses then become a gap for business actors to conduct online buying and selling transactions without complying with applicable regulations. Thus, further supervision is needed by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency as a form of responsibility and the realization of legal certainty in order to improve justice and public safety as consumers.


Soursop peeling is mainly composed of carbohydrate which is commonly disposed by people. As commercially available culture media are expensive, there is a need to find alternative sources to lower the cost involved.This study examined the potential of soursop (Annona muricata) peeling as an alternative starch source in the formulation of fungal cultivation medium. Test organisms used were Pleurotus florida, Ganoderma lucidum and Pleurotus sajorcaju. Soursop Dextrose Agar (SDA )was formulated based on its carbohydrate content and consisted of 20g dextrose, 20g agar, and 250 g of soursop peelings. Area covered by fungal mycelia was compared with the conventional Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). Results showed a comparable fungal growth between SDA and PDA using the three fungal species. Pleurotus florida cultured in SDA had an average growth rate of 4.60 cm2 while those cultured in PDA had 5.50 cm2. Ganoderma lucidum cultured in SDA exhibited an average growth rate of 5.50 cm2 while those cultured in had PDA 8.60 cm2 and Pleurotus sajurcaju cultured in SDA had an average growth rate 13.00 cm2 while those cultured in PDA had 10.00 cm2. This study indicates that soursop peeling is a good alternative source for fungal culture medium and can be used in mycological studies.

Keywords: PDA, SDA, potential starch source, soursop peeling , culture media


The paper presents an autoadaptive method of satellite images segmentation based on a description of the image by graphs. The method presented proposes a new approach using the morphological analysis of the dual graph of the segmentation. A quantification builds an image oversegmented in a connected components set forming a new digital grid. Morphological operations are applied to the graph corresponding to form significant segments by region growing. In the process of growth, the attributes of the regions are kept to enslave the process, but also to contribute to the interpretation of the relations of neighborhood and to understand the physics of detection used.


This study aims to investigate linguistics modification in teacher's discourse in an English for medical purposes (EMP) classroom at one of the medical colleges in Saudi Arabia. Linguistic modification in teacher's talk is essential part of classroom interaction as it facilitates students' understanding by reducing complexity of syntactic structures and the use of familiar structures and words. Data in this study were collected through classroom observation and informal chats with the teacher. 15 classroom observations were carried out during the First Semester of the academic year 2019/2020. When necessary, informal chats with the teacher took place at the end of observation session to get further clarification of what had happened in the classroom.  The teacher talk can be described as having high frequency of self-repetition, exaggerated pronunciation, slower rate of speech, avoiding contractions, use of short sentences and phrases, paraphrasing, avoiding idioms and unfamiliar words, and pausing were marked in teacher talk. Phonological, semantic and syntactic modifications in teacher talk ensured input comprehensibility, avoided confusion and encouraged classroom participation. This study concludes that linguistic modifications in teacher talk are necessary to ensure input comprehensibility and support students' engagement in classroom interactions.

Keywords: Classroom interaction, discourse analysis, English for medical purposes, linguistic modification, teacher talk.

Cite as: Al-smadi, O.A., Yassin, B., &Al-Bataineh, K.B. (2020). Linguistics modifications in teacher talk in English for medical purposes classroom. Trends in Social Sciences, 2(2), 10-22.


Supergravity theory is any supersymmetric theory with a local supersymmetry parameter. This thesis undertakes the study of type IIA supergravity, a supergravity theory in ten dimensions associated with type IIA string theory. In this framework we endeavour to classify all the classical geometries with minimal supersymmetry, where it should be noted that the constraints from minimal supersymmetry also apply to any solutions with enhanced supersymmetry. This thesis, together with the appended papers, provides a complete classification of all geometries in standard and massive type IIA supergravity, that preserve one supersymmetry. Such supergravity backgrounds locally admit one of four types of Killing spinors, with different isotropy groups. The Killing spinor equations have been solved for all four types, identifying the geometry of spacetime and examining the conditions on the fluxes. The picture that arises is that there are in fact three main cases, with isotropy groups Spin(7), SU(4) and G2 ⋉ R8, each with a special case, covariantly characterised by the vanishing of a certain spinor bilinear. In the Spin(7) case, this results in an enhancement of the isotropy group to Spin(7) ⋉ R8. In the present work, I introduce the concepts and methods involved in making such a classification using Spinorial Geometry. The Spinorial Geometry method exploits the linearity of the Killing spinor equations and an explicit basis in the space of spinors, as well as a gauge choice, to produce a linear system of equations in the fluxes and the spin connection. The thesis describes the steps involved, and the simplification of the resulting linear system. The results are discussed and compared with results in other supergravity theories, focusing on type IIB supergravity and eleven-dimensional supergravity. This work has made heavy use of computer algebra, and a discussion of computer algebra is included.


A book investigating best practice when using Social Stories and Picture Exchange Communication, when assisting children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the two main developmental areas of their lives; personal challenges and social interaction with their peers. The data was collected through the use of qualitative questionnaires directed at the thoughts and opinions of twenty-two families and parents and carers of children with ASD. The experiences and voices of the parents were collected through qualitative questions.


This paper analyses the effect of political factors and social capital on the allocation of public investment from the central government to local governments of the Santiago Metropolitan Area, Chile. Considering panel data of two decentralized and one centralized investment programs over the period 2009-2017, the paper explores if decentralized and centralized investment is equally subject to capture by political interests. Our results reveal that decentralized investment is distributed according to partisan criteria, whereas centralized investment is free from political influence. The reason is that local governments lobby for funds encouraged by their electoral results, but the central disburser does not consider its own electoral prospects. The analysis also points at the role of social capital limiting local governments' influence over an arbitrary distribution. Based on these results, the paper discusses the implications for metropolitan governance, highlighting the potential role of a two-tier governance scheme to retain the benefits of decentralization, acquire economies of scale in metropolitan service provision and reduce the margin for pork barrelling.


The use of short laser pulses to generate very high brightness, ultra short (fs to ps) x-ray pulses is a topic of great interest. In principle, femtosecond-scale pump-probe experiments can be used to temporally resolve structural dynamics of materials on the time scale of atomic motion. The development of sub–ps x-ray pulses will make possible a wide range of materials and plasma physics studies with unprecedented time resolution. PLEIADES (Picosecond Laser Electron Interaction for Dynamic Evaluation of Structures), the Thomson scattering project at LLNL, will provide such a novel x-ray source of high power using short laser pulses and a high brightness, relativistic electron bunch. The system is based on a 5 mm-mrad normalized emittance photoinjector, 100 MeV electron RF linac, and a 300 mJ, 35 fs solid-state laser system. PLEIADES will produce ultra fast pulses with x-ray energies (60 keV) capable of probing into high-Z metals.


In this work, we study two examples of frustrated magnetic systems whose degrees of freedom are spins (or pseudo-spins) on two-dimensional lattices. The first part presents the results obtained for the quantum compass model on a square lattice. This model is a minimal model for the orbital degrees of freedom of transition metal compounds. We use exact diagonalizations, quantum Monte Carlo simulations as well as a perturbative approach in order to study the ground state degeneracy in the thermodynamic limit and the type of order in the ground state. The second part of this work is devoted to the study of the magnetic properties of SrCu2(BO3)2, which is one of the few quasi two-dimensional quantum magnets whose magnetization curve as a function of the magnetic field shows plateaus. The magnetic degrees of freedom are described by a spin 1/2 Heisenberg model on the Shastry-Sutherland lattice in the presence of an external magnetic field. In order to study the magnetic properties at zero-temperature, we use perturbative continuous unitary transformations to derive an effective Hamiltonian in which the triplets Sz = 1 are particles moving on a background of singlets. This Hamiltonian is characterized by a kinetic energy dominated by correlated hopping, which let a particle hop only if there is another particle nearby. In order to better understand the effect of the correlated hopping, we start by studying a minimal model. By using exact diagonalizations, quantum Monte Carlo and a semi-classical approximation we show that the correlated hopping can stabilize a phase characterized by a condensation of pairs of particles and strongly favor supersolid phases. Next, we determine the zero-temperature phase diagram of the effective model by using a classical approximation. A comparison to previous theoretical works and experimental measurements shows that the Shastry-Sutherland model cannot reproduce the series of magnetization plateaus measured experimentally. This suggest that the residual interactions, which were neglected, could be crucial for SrCu2(BO3)2.


We propose a new analytical method for studying the asymptotic behavior of switching time as a function of current in macrospins under the effects of both spin-torque and thermal noise by focusing on their diffusive energy space dynamics. We test our method on the well understood uniaxial macrospin model and confirm the switching scaling dependence (I → 0,(τ)∝ exp(-ξ(1-I)2)). The analysis also shows that when there is an angle between spin current and magnet's uniaxial axes the mean switching time in the low current limit depends on the spin-current projection on the easy axis, but otherwise has the same functional form as that in the collinear case. These results have implications for modeling the energetics of thermally assisted magnetization reversal of spin transfer magnetic random access memory bit cells.


This paper presents a new approach to obtain three-finger robust grasps of 2D irregular objects. Given a discrete description of the object boundary, a partial representation of the force-closure space considering the position of two contact points is obtained. The computational cost of this representation is low and it still includes enough information to obtain suitable grasps as well as independent regions on the object boundary, such that a finger in each region ensures a force-closure grasp independently of the exact position of the contact points. The procedure has been implemented and several examples of the proposed methodology are included in the paper


Peter Medawar's 'An Unsolved Problem of Biology'1 was one of several formal attempts to provide an explanation for the evolution of senescence, the increasing risk of mortality and decline in reproduction with age after achieving maturity. Despite ca. seven decades of theoretical elaboration aiming to explain the problem since Medawar first outlined it, we argue that this fundamental problem of biology remains unsolved. Here, we utilise demographic information2, 3 for 308 multicellular species to derive age-based trajectories of mortality and reproduction that provide evidence against the predictions of the classical, still prevailing, theories of ageing1, 4, 5, 6. These theories predict the inescapability of senescence1, 4, or its universality at least among species with a clear germ-soma barrier5, 6. The patterns of senescence in animals and plants that we report contradict both of these predictions. With the largest ageing comparative dataset of these characteristics to date, we build on recent evidence7, 8 to show that senescence is not the rule, and highlight the discrepancy between existing evidence and theory7, 8, 9. We also show that species' age patterns of mortality and reproduction often follow divergent patterns, suggesting that organisms may display senescence for one component but not the other. We propose that ageing research will benefit from widening its classical theories beyond merely individual chronological age; key life history traits such as size, the ecology of the organism, and kin selection, may together play a hidden, yet integral role in shaping senescence outcomes.


Background. Osteoporosis is a common pathology among older age groups. Vertebral fractures are one of the most severe complications of osteoporosis, as they lead to a decrease in the quality of life, disability and increased mortality. The risk of vertebral fractures increases with age, especially in those who have already has a fracture of this localization. To improve the prognosis in this category of patients, early detection, treatment of patients with fractures, as well as prevention of new fractures, are important. At the same time, the diagnosis of osteoporotic vertebral fractures presents certain difficulties due to the variability of their clinical manifestations, which often leads to insufficient detection, wrong diagnosis and, as a consequence, to the lack of adequate treatment. Purpose of the review. To conduct a literature search to evaluate the clinical diagnosis of osteoporotic vertebral fractures. Conclusion. There was no single highly specific and at the same time sensitive clinical symptom of osteoporotic vertebral fractures. Back pain remains a relatively nonspecific symptom in vertebral fractures. The most specific symptoms: kyphosis and height loss have a high predictive value only when they are significantly changed. Thus, vertebral fractures should be suspected if height decreased more than 2.0 cm per year or more than 4.0 cm per life, if the patient does not reach the wall with his head or if the «rib to pelvis» distance is two fingers or less. The combination of clinical symptoms with the assessment of risk factors and bone mineral density has the greatest clinical significance. If a vertebral fracture is clinically suspected, it is advisable to perform an X-ray of the thoracic and lumbar spine, since the localization of pain indicated by the patient may not correspond to the localization of the fracture.


Abstract Phalaenopsis amabilis Blume var. grandiflora Bateman is economically important as cut and pot flower. Polyploidy is considered as a valuable tool in improvement and evolution of ornamental plants. Protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) of P. amabilis were cultured on Murashige and Skoog medium containing 0.20 mg L-1 IBA together with 2.00 mg L-1 KIN and 1.00 g L-1 activated charcoal and grown for a period of five months. Fully-developed plantlets from in vitro grown PLBs were immersed in a bubble reactor filled with half-strength Hoagland solution containing the antimitotic agent colchicine (0.05%, 0.10% and 0.15%, w/v) for 72 h with a few drops (1 mL of 0.1%) of octylphenoxypolyethoxyethanol or Nonidet (P-40) as a surfactant. Plantlets were aerated to prevent hypoxia. Colchicine-treated and untreated plantlets were transferred to pots for a period of 60 days. Tetraploidy was successfully induced by 0.15% colchicine. Polyploidy levels were firstly detected using flow cytometry and then confirmed by cytological and morphological observations. The chromosome number was 2n = 2x = 38 in diploids and 2n = 4x = 76 in tetraploid. Incubation of plantlets in liquid medium containing 0.15% colchicine induced the maximum recovered tetraploids with minimum frequency of survival (50%). The tetraploid plants were more compact and exhibited round and thick leaves with darker green color than diploids. Stomata size in tetraploids were larger with less density than diploids. Chloroplast number in guard cells of tetraploids was about two times more than that of control. These results indicate that induction of tetraploids are a reliable and powerful tool for generation of novel phenotypes with ornamental and horticultural value for genetic improvement and breeding. Produced tetraploids in current study have potential in the ornamental/floriculture trade.


The pattern of swallowing by which the oral bolus reaches an air-containing oropharynx is called an 'open swallow' whereas the sequence in which the oropharynx is collapsed on the arrival of the bolus is called a 'closed swallow'. The significance of this distinction was further analyzed by a correlation with other laryngeal and pharyngeal functions during swallowing in a cineradiologic study in 75 dysphagic patients and 50 asymptomatic volunteers. The relative incidence of open and closed type swallows was similar in the two groups. The maximum elevation of the pharynx and larynx was the same in open and closed swallow, although in individuals with an open swallow the elevation occurred later than in individuals with a closed swallow. Epiglottic movement disturbances, defective closure of the laryngeal vestibule, pharyngeal constrictor muscle paresis, cricopharyngeal incoordination, cervical esophageal webs and Zenker diverticula were significantly more common in individuals with an open pharyngeal swallow than in those with closed swallowing.


Nonreflexive quantum mechanics is a formulation of quantum theory based on a non- classical logic termed nonreflexive logic (a.k.a. 'non-reflexive'). In these logics, the standard notion of identity, as encapsulated in classical logic and set theories, does not hold in full. The basic aim of this kind of approach to quantum mechanics is to take seriously the claim made by some authors according to whom quantum particles are non-individuals in some sense, and also to take into account the fact that they may be absolutely indistinguishable (or indiscernible). The nonreflexive formulation of quantum theory assumes these features of the objects already at the level of the underlying logic, so that no use is required of symmetrization postulates or other mathematical devices that serve to pretend that the objects are indiscernible (when they are not: all objects that obey classical logic are individuals in a sense). Here, we present the ideas of the development of nonreflexive quantum mechanics and discuss some philosophical (mainly metaphysical) motivations and consequences of it.


The fatwa of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) regarding the prohibition of usury on 24 January 2004 did receive various responses in society, some took it seriously and used sharia banking services, some responded casually. The MUI fatwa is also suspected of being a driving force for Islamic banks. The purpose of this study was to find the effect of the issuance of the MUI Fatwa regarding the prohibition of usury on people's interest in saving at Islamic or conventional banks in Bekasi City. So that it will be known how much the people's interest in saving and people's preferences in choosing a bank to serve their banking transaction needs. The research results obtained are that the MUI Fatwa significantly affects people's interest in saving at Islamic banks in Bekasi with a significance level of 0.000. This indicates that Ulama still play a major role in providing input in the life of the ummah. Other technical factors such as ATM networks, location and access to Islamic bank offices, saving safety and self-identity of savers also have a major influence in determining people's choices of choosing Islamic banks for their banking services with a significance level of 0.000.


Detergents above their critical micellar concentration dissociate the aggregated forms of pure acetylcholinesterase from human erythrocyte membranes to a 6.5-S form, the protomer. This form is active only in presence of amphiphiles. 1. Uncharged (Triton X-100, Tweens, beta-D-octylglycoside), anionic (sodium dodecyl sulfate) and zwitterionic (lysophosphatidylcholine) detergents or bile salts (sodium cholate, deoxycholate) stabilize the 6.5-S enzyme at concentrations well below their critical micellar concentration. 2. Total erythrocyte lipids fully sustain catalytic activity of the 6.5-S form. 3. Protein-protein interactions stabilize the activity of the 6.5-S form of acetylcholinesterase. Above a critical acetylcholinesterase concentration (2.5 microgram/ml) enzyme activity no longer depends on the presence of an amphiphile as reaggregation to multiple molecular forms occurs. It is concluded that human erythrocyte membrane acetylcholinesterase is fully active only if the enzyme can undergo hydrophobic interactions with amphiphiles such as detergents, lipids or proteins.


Salbutamol controlled-release (CR), a new salbutamol formulation, was compared in asthmatic patients to another long-acting bronchodilator, theophylline L.A., in a randomized (2 salbutamol, 1 theophylline), multicentre, parallel-group study. Among the 83 patients who met the inclusion criteria (mean age 41 years), 55 received salbutamol CR and 28 received theophylline L.A. during 6 weeks. At the end of the study, there was a significant difference (p less than 0.05) in favour of salbutamol CR for FEV1 (2.53 l versus 2.13 l) and VC (4.23 l versus 3.50 l). FEF25-75 and PEF were higher with salbutamol CR, respectively 2.06 l sec-1 versus 1.86 l sec-1 and 6.03 l sec-1 versus 5.03 l sec-1. PEFR, measured by the patient, improved more with salbutamol CR than with theophylline L.A., with a significant difference as from the third week. There was a significant difference at the end of the study too, both morning (408 l min-1 versus 350.1 l min-1, p less than 10(-3] and evening (408.9 l min-1 versus 353 l min-1, p less than 10(-3]. Salbutamol CR and theophylline L.A. were considered as well tolerated, respectively by 95.5% of the patients in the salbutamol group and 92.3% of the patients in the theophylline group. There were equal numbers of minor and usual adverse events in the two groups. Salbutamol CR showed a better efficacy in airways obstruction without systemic safety problems. It is therefore an excellent treatment for patients requiring bronchodilator maintenance therapy.


Brain volume differences from 58 children are analyzed to determine the degree of volume loss and the effect on IQ after undergoing radiotherapy for tumors in an effort to identify relationships that might yield knowledge in preventing brain volume loss in future treatments. Analysis of the pre- and post-treatment data is performed first using traditional statistics and then with the assistance of a new kind of artificial adaptive systems called the activation and competition system (ACS) and Auto-contractive Map (Auto-CM). While the result of the statistical study suggests that it is not possible to linearly classify the subjects into subsets of higher and lower IQ, the ACS clearly delineates the dataset into two IQ groups. Further, Auto-CM allows us to establish a semantic connection map among different brain segments which indicates a possible interpretation rule in the observed results. The effect of radiation treatment on the nine brain segments is addressed and future research directions are introduced.


This article presents findings from a labour mobility survey of 250 former call centre agents in India's National Capital Region (September 2008) exploring individuals' employment before, during and immediately after leaving India's high-profile call centre 'industry'. These data are combined with forty-two in-depth interviews conducted in India's NCR (July 2006 to August 2008) with call centre agents, managers, ex-call centre agents, labour organizers and economic development officials, as well as representatives from different labour market intermediaries. The study gives a cautiously optimistic account about the call centre work and employment opportunities on offer in India's 'IT Enabled Services – Business Processing Outsourcing' (or ITES-BPO) industry, and their implications for young urban middle class graduates based on: (i) the movement of around one fifth of the ex-call centre agent sample into further study, facilitated by relatively high call centre salaries; (ii) the movement of ex-call centre agents into higher paying job roles in a wide range of sectors including banking, IT, insurance, marketing, real estate and telecommunications; and (iii) the development of transferable skills in Indian call centres that are recognized by ex-call centre agents and their subsequent employers as conferring a labour market advantage in other sectors of India's new service economy relative to colleagues without prior call centre work experience.


In this editorial introduction Allen Lee's definition of the information systems (IS) field is taken as the starting point: "Research in the information systems field examines more than just the technological system, or just the social system, or even the two systems side by side; in addition, it investigates the phenomena that emerge when the two interact" (Lee, A. "Editorial", MISQ, Vol. 25, No. 1, 2001, p. iii). By emphasizing the last part of this, it is argued that actor‐network theory (ANT) can provide IS research with unique and very powerful tools to help us overcome the current poor understanding of the information technology (IT) artifact (Orlikowski, W. and Iacono, S., "Research commentary: desperately seeking the 'IT' in IT research – a call for theorizing the IT artifact", Information Systems Research, Vol. 10 No. 2, 2001, pp. 121‐34). These tools include a broad range of concepts describing the interwoven relationships between the social.


ABSTRACT The main objective of this project was to utilize current GIS/Internet technology to efficiently disseminate hydrological data for the State of Texas to the public. The Texas Water Development Board maintains an INFORMIX relational database (RDB) that contains records for over 118,000 water wells of the estimated 1,000,000 wells statewide. The database also contains detailed information on well location, elevation, depth, well type, owner, aquifer, driller, construction, water-quality, and water-level data. The water quality information includes analyses of major cations and anions and other infrequent constituents. The database contains more than 82,000 total analyses from 47,000 ground-water sites, close to 190,000 infrequent constituents, and 513,000 water levels. In addition to the database, the TWDB maintains USGS 7.5 minute topographic maps with plotted well locations. The database and maps are primarily used by TWDB staff, water districts, and planners to project future water supplies and usage, and by environmental consultants in site assessment/feasibility studies. A combination of GIS software, Internet software and Visual Basic programming was utilized in developing an application that would function within the agency to serve TWDB staff and outside the agency to distribute information via the World Wide Web (WWW). Visual Basic and ESRI's object-oriented programming language (AVENUE) were utilized to customize a Graphical User Interface that would allow users with little or no experience to easily access the TWDB ground-water database. Water well locations are displayed on detailed base maps. The application allows the query of geospatial and tabular data. Specific searches of the INFORMIX database can also be performed through SQL statements. TWDB planners, geologists, and field staff currently respond to more than 300 inquiries a month and provide ground-water information in digital or hard-copy format. Given the recent explosion of WWW usage, sharing geospatial data via the an Internet/intranet application is a cost-effective solution to providing the public with access to large databases. End_of_Record - Last_Page 658-------


Ocular trauma to anterior segment as an important cause of preventable morbidity to vision is commonly encountered in this tertiary care centre and requires a targeted approach for preventing visual impairment and loss to the population at large. To find out sociodemographic and clinical pattern of anterior segment involvement in patients of trauma to the eye, a retrospective study was carried out in 380 eyes of 354 patients in Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, RIMS, Ranchi during the period July, 2005 to June 2007. Demographic profile, nature of injury and visual acuity were studied from the records. More than 3/4 ths of patients were male, nearly 46.9% of them in the age group of 21-40 years, blunt injury accounted for 62.4% of cases and right eye affected in 260 cases (68.4%). Cornea bore the brunt most often (56.6%) and most common visual acuity at presentation was less than 6/60 to perception of light (41.8%).


Plants increase sulfate uptake activity under sulfur deficiency (-S). In Arabidopsis, SULTR1;2 is the major high-affinity sulfate transporter induced in epidermis and cortex of roots for mediating sulfate uptake under -S. Though it is known that transcript levels of SULTR1;2 increase under -S largely due to the function of 5'-upstream region, contributions of 5'-non-transcribed flanking region and 5'-untranslated region (UTR) to transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations have not yet been individually verified. To investigate the roles of 5'UTR of SULTR1;2 in -S responses, transcript levels and activities of firefly luciferase (Luc) were analyzed in transgenic plants expressing Luc under the control of the 2,160-bp long 5'-upstream region of SULTR1;2 with (PL2160) or without (PL2160ΔUTR) the 154-bp 5'UTR. Both transgenic plants expressed similar levels of Luc mRNAs that showed significant accumulations under -S relative to +S regardless of presence of the 5'UTR. In contrast, Luc activities were detected only in PL2160 plants, suggesting presence of 5'UTR of SULTR1;2 being necessary for translational initiation while its absence impairing translation of functional Luc protein in PL2160ΔUTR. These results indicate an essential role of the 5'-non-transcribed flanking region of SULTR1;2 at positions -2160 to -155 in -S-responsive transcriptional regulation.


The burden of caregivers of patients suffering from of Alzheimer type dementia (DAT) and vascular dementia (VD) was analysed at the critical time, the "breaking-point", when home care becomes insufficient and/or inadequate and the caregiver burden has probably reached its upper limit. Primary family caregivers of 39 DAT and 40 VD patients who were being considered for relocation into group-living units were studied. Total caregiving burden and different aspects of the burden: general strain, isolation, disappointment, and emotional involvement, were correlated with the patients' diagnoses, abilities, and symptoms. Closer kinship to the patient imposed a heavier burden. The caregiver's gender, social class, and previous institutionalization of the patient did not influence the caregiver burden. There was no significant correlation between the patients' ADL ability or cognition and the burden. A higher level of disappointment was found among the VD carers. Different symptomatology in patients of the two diagnostic groups was related to special aspects of the burden. Multiple regression analysis showed that the amount of caregiving time each week and impaired sense of own identity, misidentifications, clinical fluctuations, and nocturnal deterioration in the patients predicted the breaking-point. (Less)


Precise real time modulation of the laser energy flux during material processing enables the regulation of specific chemical/physical properties on a highly localized scale. The presentation focuses on a control-system architecture and its implementation that delivers well defined photon exposures at the proper location and time.


1. The afferent discharge of mesenteric nerves has been recorded while perfusing salines of different composition through the lumen of rat ileum. The p.d. across the ileum and hexose absorption have also been measured. 2. The ileal mesenteric nerves were sensitive to actively transported hexoses. The discharge recorded increased dramatically on perfusion with 10 or 50 mM‐glucose, quietening within 3 min of returning to glucose‐free saline. A similar response was obtained with galactose. 3. No change in afferent discharge could be detected on perfusion of mannitol or the slowly transferred hexose, mannose. It is concluded that the response to glucose and galactose is not dependent on the stimulation of non‐specific luminal osmoreceptors. 4. Phlorhizin prevented glucose from increasing the afferent nerve discharge. Subsequent perfusion with saline removed the phlorhizin and an afferent nerve response to glucose was restored. It is concluded that this response requires glucose transfer beyond the phlorhizin‐sensitive glucose entry mechanism at the luminal side of the mucosal epithelial cell. 5. Very small amounts of glucose or galactose were absorbed under the conditions employed. The time course for the change in p.d. correlated well with that described for the alteration in afferent nerve discharge. 6. Electron micrographs show that ileal nerves consist of bundles of small non‐myelinated fibres of approximately 1 micron diameter. 7. The significance of the findings is discussed remembering that carbohydrate absorption is considered to be completed normally in the jejunum.


This paper presents an implementation of conventional PID (CPID) controller using Ziegler-Nichols rules and fuzzy PD (FPD) controller for position servo motor control based on Lab View (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench Environment) through Data Acquisition (DAQ) Device PCI- 6521 of National Instrument's and Data Acquisition Accessory Board Model (CB-68LP).CPID controller is perhaps the most well-known and most widely used in industrial applications. However, it has been known that CPID controller generally don't work well for non-linear systems, higher order and time-delayed linear system and particularly complex and vague system. To overcome these difficulties, this paper proposes to use the FPD controller for a servo motor system instead of CPID. The parameters of servo motor used are completely unknown. The FPD structure has two-input single-output and fairly similar characteristic to its conventional counterpart and provides good performance. Simple rules base are used for FPD (nine rules only). Performance evaluation was carried out via a comparison study for the proposed control scheme and other existing control scheme, such as CPID controller. The critical point for this experiment on position system is a steady state error and settling time. The performance showing that the FPD has less settling time and zero steady state error over its CPID. The algorithms of FPD and CPID controllers are implemented using PID, Fuzzy Logic and simulation toolkits of the Lab View environment.


This paper describes an approach to design error diagnosis and correction in combinational digital circuits. Our approach targets small errors introduced during the design process or due to specification changes. We incrementally use simulation to identify suspect nets, and then attempt correction based on our error model. We use multiple iterations to handle multiple errors. Experimental results on ISCAS'85 benchmarks are shown for circuits containing up to four random errors. Diagnosis and correction can be done quickly, with the bulk of the time going to diagnosis. Our tool is accurate in that even with multiple errors present, the corrected circuit is identical to the original most of the time.


OBJECTIVE
The behaviour of occult infection in the uterine cervix was studied over one year in 175 women randomly selected, to determine if the infection persisted, disappeared or if the viral genotype became modified.

STUDY DESIGN
An earlier study of the prevalence of HPV cervical infection detected 11 (6.2%) occult infections. Of these the infectious genotype could only be identified in five. One year later the infected women were subjected to further colposcopical examination and molecular hybridization testing.

RESULTS
In seven of the 11 cases with cervical occult infection, the DNA HPV genome was found to be completely absent at year-end. Colposcopic and cytological studies remained negative in all women.

CONCLUSIONS
The loss of DNA HPV in seven of the 11 previously positive women is probably due to variability in the number of cells that became infected in a situation where small numbers of copies are made. The high proportion of occult infection with uncharacterized viruses supports the view that this type of infection is often due to new genotypes, presently non-classifiable.


Abstract. The trajectory of biological research may be affected by historical factors (such as locations of influential researchers) as well as by underlying biological dimensions (such as species diversity and location of potential study taxa). Such influences on research focus can be clarified by examining the topics of published papers. Based on 93,816 scientific papers published on snake biology since 1804 (from Web of Science), we found a nonrandom distribution of research output among snake clades, fields of research, and geographic locations and strong changes through time in overall research effort as well as in the foci of that work. Snakes have been the subject of more scientific papers than other lineages of reptiles, but research on turtles has been increasing faster, and research effort per species has been higher for smaller reptile lineages. Studies on systematics and taxonomy dominated snake research until the mid-20th century, when the field was overtaken by studies of venoms, ecology, morphology, and physiology. Colubrids and Vipers have been the most intensively studied taxa, reflecting a concentration of research on continents (Europe and the Americas) where these taxa are diverse and abundant. Research effort on Vipers (Viperidae) increased around 1920, reflecting advances in antivenom and radiotelemetry technology. Blindsnakes (Scolecophidia) and smaller families remain relatively neglected in absolute terms. The numbers of papers per species are 10-fold greater for North American and European snakes than those in most other regions. We attribute these nonrandom patterns to temporal and spatial variation in research priorities, methods, and availability of scientific infrastructure.


Background Data on characteristics, outcomes, and prognosis of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who develop pneumonitis during systemic anti-cancer therapy (pneumonitis) are currently lacking. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 910 consecutive patients diagnosed with advanced NSCLC between January 2004 and January 2014. Of these, 140 patients were excluded because they did not receive systemic anti-cancer therapy at this hospital. Results A total of 770 patients were included in the study, of whom 44 (6%) were diagnosed with pneumonitis. The mortality rate of pneumonitis was 36%. The incidence of pneumonitis was independently associated with pre-existing ILD (adjusted odds ratio, 2.99, P = 0.008), and survivors were significantly associated with younger age (P = 0.003) and radiographic non-acute interstitial pneumonia pattern (P = 0.004). In all patients, pneumonitis was identified as an independent predictor of overall survival (OS) (adjusted hazard ratio 1.53, 95% CI, 1.09–2.09, P = 0.015). Performance status was poor in 82% of survivors of pneumonitis; in 62% of survivors, the PS worsened after the pneumonitis improved. Additionally, 54% of survivors received no further systemic anti-cancer therapy after pneumonitis. The median survival time of survivors after pneumonitis was 3.5 months (95% CI, 2.3–7.2 months). Conclusions Our study indicated that 6% of patients with advanced NSCLC developed pneumonitis during systemic anti-cancer therapy. The early mortality rate of pneumonitis is high, and the survival and PS after pneumonitis is extremely poor. Additionally, pneumonitis has an adverse impact on the survival of patients with advanced NSCLC. These data should be considered for the management of pneumonitis, and we recommend that future work focuses on pneumonitis particularly to improve the survival of patients with advanced NSCLC.


Purpose of review Pediatric obese asthma is a complex disease that remains poorly understood. The increasing worldwide incidence of both asthma and obesity over the last few decades, their current high prevalence and the challenges in treating obese asthmatic patients all highlight the importance of a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms in obese asthma. While it is well established that patients with obesity are at an increased risk of developing asthma, the mechanisms by which obesity drives the onset of asthma, and modifies existing asthma, remain unclear. Here, we will focus on mechanisms by which obesity alters immune function in asthma. Recent findings Lung parenchyma has an altered structure in some pediatric obese asthmatics, known as dysanapsis. Central adiposity is linked to reduced pulmonary function and a better predictor of asthma risk in children than BMI. Obesity in young children is associated with an increased risk of developing asthma, as well as early puberty, and hormonal alterations are implicated in obese asthma. Obesity and asthma each yield immunometabolic dysregulation separately and we are learning more about alterations in these pathways in pediatric obese asthma and the potential impact of bariatric surgery on those processes. Summary The recent progress in clarifying the connections between childhood obesity and asthma and their combined impacts on immune function moves us closer to the goals of improved understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning obese asthma and improved therapeutic target selection. However, this common inflammatory disease remains understudied, especially in children, and much remains to be learned.


Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit. It is characterized by the formation of non-inflammatory comedones and inflammatory papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. Acne is extremely common and usually starts during the teenage years but can start for the first time in their 20s and 30s. The lesions usually involve the face, back and chest. Severe inflammation may lead to scarring after healing. Psychosocial impact of acne can be tremendous and lead to a poorer quality of life. Proper understanding of pathogenesis of acne will lead to better management.


People can behave co-operatively or competitively with other co-workers. An experiment was performed to test the hypothesis that a shared social space (SSS) with continuous and "rich" communication possibilities leads to an increase in forming coalitions. The DOOM game – as a simulation of a competitive world – provides a test environment, where a group of four players has to fight against each other. Two samples of 12 persons each were tested playing DOOM: one with the SSS conditions (continuous spoken communication mode, small physical distance among players, no headphones) and another under the condition of separation during the game (discontinuous communication mode: spoken communication only during a break, large physical distance and headphones during the game). During a break all players had have the chance to discuss the outcome of the first trial (group process feedback). The SSS conditions led to a significantly increased amount of coalitions between players. Group process feedback also had a positive effect on the extent of coalitions.


The performance of computationally intensive scientific applications on the underlying system can be maximized by providing application-level load balancing of loop iterates via the use of dynamic loop scheduling (DLS) algorithms. These DLS methods are based on probabilistic analyses, and therefore account for unpredictable variations of algorithmic, systemic and application level characteristics. A considerable number of DLS algorithms has been proposed in the last decade, and some of them have been effectively integrated into scientific and engineering applications, yielding significant performance improvements. However, scheduling scientific applications in large-scale distributed systems where, the chances of failure, such as processor or link failure, are high, makes the problem of achieving a load balanced execution even more challenging. Although real experiments are necessary to verify the benefits of using DLS, they prove to be very time consuming when every level of detail is required for the assessment of the execution of complex, data parallel and irregular scientific applications using DLS on a wide range of architectural platforms and computational environments. Thus, we propose the use of simulators which can give results that are not always experimentally measurable with the current technology. Simulations also help in studying the problem at various levels of abstraction and provide practical feedback. In this paper, we discuss the implementation of DLS techniques in Alea, a Grid Sim based scheduling simulator. Based on the simulation results, we further compare the load balancing characteristics of these methods in a simulated parallel and distributed computing environment.


PURPOSE
Patients with cancer may be more vulnerable to infection because of impaired immune competence as a result of their disease or chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. In these patients, central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) can result in significant morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and increased costs.

METHODS
We developed a staff educational series to identify knowledge deficits and standardize the use, care, and maintenance of central lines, with the goal of reducing the rate of CLABSIs. The methodology used for this study employed a simulated central line care model, focused on the re-education of nursing staff from January 2012 to June 2012, and included a pretest, an educational blitz, and a post-test. The educational blitz content was tailored to specifically address the significant practice and knowledge deficits identified from the results of the pretest.

RESULTS
On completion of the education program, the post-test demonstrated a 16.9% increase in nursing staff competence related to the care and maintenance of central lines. Six months before the educational series (June 2011 to January 2012), the CLABSI rate was 5.86 per 1,000 patient line-days. Throughout the educational series (February 2012 to May 2012), the CLABSI rate was 3.45. The data revealed a CLABSI rate of 3.43 for the 6-month period after the educational series (June 2012 to January 2013).

CONCLUSION
A targeted educational intervention using a simulated central line care model improved competence in central line care and resulted in decreased CLABSI rates for inpatient oncology patients.


Growing evidence in recent years has led to an agreement on the importance and benefits that inclusive education has for students with special educational needs (SEN). However, the extension and universalization of an inclusive approach will also be enhanced with more evidence on the benefits that inclusion has for all students, including those without SEN. Based on the existing knowledge that learning interactions among diverse students are a key component of educational inclusion, the aim of this study is to identify the impact on students without SEN of being educated with students with SEN in shared, inclusive, interactive learning environments. Data were collected in three schools using a qualitative approach with a communicative orientation. Semistructured interviews were held with teachers as well as community volunteers participating in the schools. Further, focus groups were conducted with students and teachers. The results show that students without SEN benefit from participating in interactive learning activities with peers with SEN in different ways: (1) they learn to respect others, accept differences, and acknowledge different abilities, thereby creating opportunities for new friendships to develop; (2) they learn about abilities related to helping others participate and learn, to be patient and to gain the satisfaction in helping others learn and behave better; and (3) they benefit from the cognitive effort required to explain themselves and from the contributions of peers with SEN from which they can learn.


The authors present an investigation into the growth of a radially symmetrical ripple, superimposed on a Gaussian laser beam propagating in a plasma. The growth rate, being a function of plasma and pump parameters, is shown to be drastically influenced by these parameters in collisional as well as collisionless unmagnetized plasmas. In low temperature and intensity regimes, the growth of the ripple plays a relatively more dangerous role in collisional plasmas as compared to collisionless plasmas.


Placebos, seen as any pharmacological procedure without a specific effect, have been widely used in medical practice. In the fifties, when clinical trial development started, placebos assume a new dimension, as fundamental tools in clinical trial design. The aim of this review was to evaluate and describe methodological aspects related to placebo use in clinical trials. Despite the importance attributed to placebos, particularly to maintain blinding, it is not always easy to simulate an active procedure. On the other hand, the ethical aspects of placebo utilization in some clinical and experimental circumstances are becoming more and more complex. These two aspects are commented. It is emphasized that the use of a placebo, by itself, may influence the results of a clinical study. We analyze the factors that determine the placebo effect but also how placebos and the placebo effect affect final results.


Nowadays airbags are part of the standard equipment in almost all new cars. While airbags are saving an increasing number of people from severe injuries and death in moderate and high speed crashes, they do not completely prevent dashboard injuries. The most common mechanism in dashboard injuries is a posteriorly directed force to the proximal tibia with the knee flexed. This may occur during a motor vehicle frontal impact accident when a knee of the driver or the front-seat passenger strikes the dashboard. The posterior force can be combined with an abducting or rotational force leading to concomitant lateral or posterolateral injury. Car and airbag manufacturers therefore develop special inflatable systems to reduce the impact force in dashboard injuries. Every new inflatable system, however, has to be evaluated in out of position situations in which the system might cause injuries to certain body areas. Therefore, we investigated a new kneebag system in different critical seating positions of post mortem test subjects (PMTS). The tested knee airbag module is a folded airbag (18 litre volume) which is installed below the lower section of the instrument panel of a passenger car. Using four PMTS (2 male, 2 female, age 36-67) the following positions were tested: normal seating position, knee flexed more than 90 degrees and knee flexed less than 60 degrees in static deployment tests with direct contact. In addition a dynamic test (48.8kph, AAMA-pulse) was carried out with the PMTS belted in a normal seating position. The inflation phase and the impact of the system on the knee/lower leg were analysed by high speed videos. After the test the lower legs of the PMTS were examined by X-ray and autopsy. All soft tissue injuries and bone fractures were recorded. All the tests could be evaluated. Except some superficial skin lesions in the impact area no fracture of the bones around the knee and no knee ligament and tendon injuries were observed. Neither video analysis nor autopsy of the PMTS showed any critical contact injuries caused by the inflation process of the bag. Therefore, it can be concluded that in the tested seating positions, which are the most critical for the knee area, the knee bag system is safe. (A) Paper to the 1st International ESAR Conference on 3rd/4th September 2004 at Hannover Medical School (Germany), Poster Session. For the covering abstract see ITRD D355457.


In this preliminary study the effects of PTZ-induced spike-wave discharges were studied and compared with those that occur spontaneously in a genetic model for human absence epilepsy. PTZ (20mg/kg) was administered in chronically EEG equipped WAG/Rij rats while control rats received solvent, the EEG was recorded for three subsequent hours. All rats showed spike and wave discharges (SWD) during baseline. After PTZ de novo PTZ-induced SWD appeared while the classical SWD remain present. Clear differences between spontaneous occurring SWD and by PTZ were found, most striking were the differences in intraspike frequency 4-6/sec and 7-9/sec respectively for the PTZ and classical SWD. In the second post-drug hour the number of PTZ induced SWD was decreased compared to the first hour, while the classical SWD were increased. In the last hour SWD were again the same as during baseline while the number of PTZ-induced SWD was further decreased. The same changes were observed for the mean duration of both type of SWD. It can be concluded that PTZ administration in WAG/Rij rats induced atypical discharges while the typical SWD were not altered. The increase in typical SWD in the second hour after PTZ administration may suggest a coupling between the typical and atypical SWD. However the discrepancy in the time of onset of the increase in the discharges induced by PTZ and spontaneous occurring SWD does suggest that they can be controlled by different mechanisms.


This dissertation explores the relationship between conflict-related migration and development within the (post-) conflict setting of Afghanistan. Taking advantage of two unique micro-level datasets seldom available for such a high-risk environment, these studies tackle a range of issues related to the causes and consequences of conflict-related migration, and also assess an important policy response. Moreover, the varied types of migration are considered including cross-border flows, internal displacement and return migration. The ability to do so is not simply convenient but appropriate given the prevalence of these three particular migration trends in Afghanistan over the last four decades.


This paper aims to provide an overview of web portal and its implication in libraries, which focuses on issues related to the library portals and importance of portals in a library environment. The review covers literature published in mainstream library and information science studies. The review was done on literature published in both academic and professional LIS journals and other documents. This review reveals that basically seven types of research are being done on library portals: 1) Evolution of library portals, 2) Role of Librarians in Library portals 3) Design of Library Portals 4) Library Portals and web 2.0 application and 5) Portal and Web-Enabled Library Services 6) Usability of Library portals and 7) Evaluation of Library portals. Predominantly this research is directed towards solving conflicts between Librarians and users of through the guidelines for effective design and services of library to cater the needs of users of modern era. However, very little research is devoted towards measuring the quality of library portals.


With rapid advance of new technologies and mediated built space has shifted from a static context of functions serving users to a new participant of social relationships. Interactive abilities and computational power allow built space to become smart, dynamic, and interactive, gaining agency, able to receive information and think, perceive and learn, respond and change behavior in real time. This paper considers architectural components and users as participants of a social network and investigates their agency within this network, modes of interaction and how the components of this system influence each other. Perception of space within or outside of the building body has become a derivative of interaction between the space and the users, and therefore subject to design and programming by architects. The principal goal of this paper is to investigate the new definition of social role of interactive architecture and explain how it communicates with users, investigate the new properties it has and how does it influence users' behavior and space awareness. It reveals the importance of bi-directional communication between society and interactive environment. Interactive space works as a mirror, reflecting social and cultural context, or a double-sided mirror allowing interactive environment to observe users and decide how to act in accordance with these observations. Within the framework of this discourse, architectural components and people are treated as agents of one socio-technical network with equal rights and agency. It considers both human and non-human elements equally as actors within a network, employing the same analytical and descriptive methodology to all actors within a heterogeneous network.


In this paper, smart volume controller (SVC) using fuzzy logic is developed for mobile phones in order to improve the voice quality in the presence of background noise. The SVC uses the noise level and class information as an input to automatically raise the volume of the cell phone in the presence of background noise. Smart volume controller mainly consists of two stages: (i) Noise Classification, (ii) Fuzzy Volume Controller. Noise classification includes feature extraction and feature matching using artificial neural network classifier to differentiate between different types of noise classes. The maximum noise attenuation level of up to 55db was achieved while experimenting with the four different types of noises such as car noise, market noise, office noise, and train noise using the proposed volume controller that seems to be quite satisfactory.