The outward-oriented and export based growth strategies in Turkish economy has recently transformed the structure of export into technology intensive motor vehicles and equipments. It is inevitable that this structural transformation of export will affect the amount of human capital needed in export sector. In parallel fashion, human capital may affect productivity spurring export. This paper examines the relationship between human capital and export in provinces of Turkey, using the panel causality method with annual data from 1996 to 2008. Empirical findings reveal that there is a unidirectional causal relationship running from export to human capital except for 5th order developed provinces. The significance of this empirical result is that export can be considered as an effective instrument increasing human capital accumulation. Overall, the paper suggests that export triggers increases in human capital in provinces which have different level of socio-economic development.


The excitation-energy-hopping (EEH) times within two-dimensional cyclic zinc(II)-porphyrin arrays 5 and 6, which were prepared by intermolecular coordination and ring-closing metathesis reaction of olefins, were deduced by modeling the EEH process based on the anisotropy depolarization as well as the exciton-exciton annihilation dynamics. Assuming the number of energy-hopping sites N = 5 and 6, the two different experimental observables, that is, anisotropy depolarization and exciton-excition annihilation times, consistently give the EEH times of 8.0 +/- 0.5 and 5.3 +/- 0.6 ps through the 1,3-phenylene linkages of 5 and 6, respectively. Accordingly, the self-assembled cyclic porphyrin arrays have proven to be well-defined two-dimensional models for natural light-harvesting complexes.


Richard Rohr is one of the most recognizable Franciscan preachers of our time. Even though he could be described as hermit, he did not choose to live in total isolation, neither form the world, nor from people. He is an active preacher in his religious community, as well as the author of more than thirty books that have been translated into several languages. In all of his published works one could notice his innovative method of contemplative spirituality, inspired by various schools of thought: Buddhism, Hinduism, Gandhi's teachings, but also by Thomas Merton. In the book discussed in this review, the author suggests that silence is not a state of inertia, but rather an encouragement to action. To describe silence as a "form of intelligence" is to confirm its status as an excellence that could only be find in creative acts.


In humanities disciplines, ever more metaphorical ink is being spilled on conceptualizing the Anthropocene. Given the numerous articles, books, and edited volumes (this one included) theorizing and retheorizing the Anthropocene, it's little wonder that there is no agreement about precisely what it is or what it means. There is no single Anthropocene narrative to be told. Rather, there are, as scholars have noted, a plurality of Anthropocenes. There are a plurality of interpretations of the Anthropocene concept and an abundance of proposed uses for it. Among the various narratives, differences often lie in who or what is blamed (humanity; capitalism; fossil fuels), when it began (the Neolithic Revolution; the Industrial Revolution; the post-WWII "Great Acceleration"), and what is to be done (alter human activities to reduce the negative effects; embrace and expand the human potential to better manage and control the planet). A common thread running through the many disparate Anthropocene stories is the very general point that at least some human activities have effects on the planet that are both large-scale and deleterious. The list of offending human activities is probably familiar: greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel burning, altering of land-cover, fertilizer runoff, overfishing, garbage production, natural resource extraction, to name just a few. The undesirable effects include climate change, ocean acidification, sea level rise, lack of potable water, eutrophication, acid rain, ozone depletion, biodiversity loss, the Great Pacific garbage patch, and rivers that catch on fire.


The study of the small intestine microbiota in humans is difficult due to the low availability of biomaterial. Non-invasive methods of metabolomics and bioinformatic data analysis can expand our understanding of the structure and role the small intestine microbiota in maintaining homeostasis of the body. The article presents the trajectory of age-related changes in the microbial community of the small intestine in healthy individuals in the context of interaction with the cytokine and neuroendocrine systems within the metaorganism, using the methods of gas chromatography - mass spectrometry of microbial markers (GCMS MM) and optimal scaling. 110 practically healthy individuals: children, adults and elderly, were included into the study. The number of the main types of small intestine microbiota ( Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Fusobacteria ) was determined in peripheral blood by the GCMS MM method. To construct the trajectories of changes in the small intestine microbiota and indicators of the cytokine and neuroendocrine systems with age, the optimal scaling technique based on the multivariate Gifi transformation (CATPCA method) was used. It was found, that the bacterial community of the small intestine of both children and the elderly and seniors has a significantly low total number of microorganisms, due to the low content of bacteria of the types Firmicutes and Actinobacteria against the background of a high number of representatives of the types Proteobacteria and Fusobacteria , in comparison with similar indicators in adults. Assessment of the trajectory of age-associated changes in the microbiota of the small intestine showed: 1) children have strong dynamic fluctuations in the number and connections within the community of microorganisms against the background of the formation of connections between the main regulatory systems of the metaorganism – immune and neuroendocrine; 2) adults present the plasticity and consistency of the functioning of the immune and nervous systems, what determine the state of dynamic balance of the small intestine microbiota; 3) healthy aging characterize by hight degree of cooperation between the main members of the bacterial community, which ensures the stability of the system at a new level, as one of the mechanisms of adaptation of the organism. Thus, the using the methods of GCMS MM and optimal scaling, allows us to expand our understanding of the age-associated trajectory of changes in the small intestine microbiota and its cooperation with the immune and neuroendocrine systems within the metaorganism, which can be used in the development of new methods of therapy of an infectious and non-infectious diseases.


Development Credit Agreement-Seventh Transport Project (with schedules and General Conditions Applicable to Development Credit Agreements dated 1 January 1985). Signed at Washington on 12 February 1987


Objectives The purpose of this study is to shorten the decellularization time of trachea by using combination of physical, chemical, and enzymatic techniques. Methods Approximately 3.5-cm-long tracheal segments from 42 New Zealand rabbits (3.5±0.5 kg) were separated into seven groups according to decellularization protocols. After decellularization, cellular regions, matrix and strength and endurance of the scaffold were followed up. Results DNA content in all groups was measured under 50 ng/mg and there was no significant difference for the glycosaminoglycan content between group 3 (lyophilization+deoxycholic acid+de-oxyribonuclease method) and control group (P=0.46). None of the decellularized groups was different than the normal trachea in tensile stress values (P>0.05). Glucose consumption and lactic acid levels measured from supernatants of all decellularized groups were close to group with cells only (76 mg/dL and 53 mg/L). Conclusion Using combination methods may reduce exposure to chemicals, prevent the excessive influence of the matrix, and shorten the decellularization time.


This study was conducted to develop an organic control method of two spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) by using cooking oil and yolk mixture (COY) through evaluating its acaricidal activity in laboratory and green house. In laboratory, there is no significant difference in acaricidal activity against T. urticae within the COY including soybean, canola (rape seed), sunflower and olive oil. The acaricidal activity against T. urticae. increased from 17.6% to 94.1% as the COY became concentrated between 0.1% to 1%. The COY acricidal activity was effected by the quantity of treatment according to application methods. The COY dealt with T. urticae eggs presented 95% of the ovicidal activity. In rose greenhouse damaged by T. urticae, the COY (0.3%) was sprayed three times and resulted in the high control value of mites between 69.0% to 89.6%.


Teachers' decision making skills during instruction represent essential components for effective teaching outcomes. These interactive decision making skills play an even greater role with preservice teachers teaching for their first time. Despite its significance, limited research was directed to assist preservice teachers in developing these interactive decision making skills. This study represents the first attempt at developing Computer Mediated Simulation (CMS) application training for the purpose of enhancing decision making skills development.
The purpose of this study was: (1) to develop the CMS training application designed to enhance appropriate interactive decisions among preservice physical education teachers, and (2) to validate the CMS training application for its purpose. A Delphi technique was utilized for the purpose of validating the CMS training application among 26 physical education teacher educators on its three CMS modules representing the reception, propulsion, and deflection movement task categories.
Throughout a series of three rounds of questionnaires, each of the three CMS modules was validated on organization, layout and content. Findings from this study emphasize the importance of developing the decision making skills among preservice teachers and establish the need for further examination of these skills in teacher education programs.*
*This dissertation is a compound document (contains both a paper copy and a CD as part of the dissertation). The CD requires the following system requirements: Internet Browser; Adobe Acrobat; QuickTime; Shockwave Flash.


There has always been a great need for simple and accurate bioassays for evaluating nutrient limitation in aquatic ecosystems. Whereas organic carbon is usually considered to be the limiting nutrient for microbial growth in many aquatic ecosystems, there are, however, many water sources that are limited by phosphorus or nitrogen. A method named "nitrogen fixing bacterial growth potential" (NFBGP) test, which is based on pre-culturing of autochthonous (target) microorganisms was described. The method was applied to evaluate phosphorus or nitrogen nutrient limitation in lake and sewage water samples using an isolate of the nitrogen fixing bacterium, Azorhizobium sp. WS6. The results corresponded well to those from the traditional algal growth potential (AGP) test and the bacterial regrowth potential (BRP) test, suggesting that the NFBGP test is a useful supplementary method for evaluating the limiting nutrient, especially phosphorus, in an aquatic environment.


The study objective was to develop an acai liqueur and assess quality physico-chemical, microbiological and sensory. The raw material and liqueur were evaluated by physico-chemical parameters, such as moisture, lipid, protein, ash, total carbohydrates, soluble solids, acidity, sugars (reducing, non-reducing and total), alcohol content, density, calcium, fiber and iron; and microbiological by analyses of coliforms at 35 °C and 45 °C, yeasts, molds and Salmonella. Were conducted acceptance testing with 40 tasters from 20 to 42 years, using a hedonic scale of nine points and purchase intent. The pulp showed high levels of moisture, lipid and fibers and low ash content, acidity and calcium. The beverage prepared has presented an alcohol content of 16.00 ± 0.50% (v/v), high content of sugar and acidity, and low ash content. The liquor showed absence of Salmonella, coliforms and yeasts and molds. The drink reached satisfactory index of acceptability for all attributes, especially the appearance attribute which obtained the highest acceptance followed by consistency, texture, flavor, color and aroma, with the intent to purchase of 74.8%. According to the results, it was found that acai is an alternative raw material for the elaboration of new food products, including liquor.


Category width, as defined by Pettigrew's (1958) Category Width Scale, is a cognitive variable that purportedly reveals individual differences in categorization strategy. Subjects differ in terms of broadness and narrowness of judgments of category width--to what extent they will accept exemplars as good instances of a category. We tested the hypothesis that category width would be related to how subjects behave in different speech perception tasks. Differences found between extremely broad and narrow categorizers on such tasks would be helpful in understanding the nature of the perceptual and cognitive processes underlying the category width distinction. No effects attributable to category width were found when results were analyzed in terms of subjects' (a) discrimination and feature evaluation of auditory and visual information in speech events, (b) integration of these sources of information, (c) the process of decision, and (d) subjective preference for a two-choice versus a nine-choice response method. The results from both male and female and broad and narrow categorizers supported the predictions made by a fuzzy logical model of perception (FLMP). In the FLMP, people have access to continuous information about each feature of a stimulus, they make independent evaluations of each feature based on this information, the various features are integrated, and a decision is made based on the relative support for the viable alternatives. Given the common processes involved in speech and other pattern perceptual-recognition tasks, we conclude that fundamental processes involved in pattern recognition are unlikely to vary with personality measures, such as category width.


In order to assess the psychological effect of mammographic screening, questionnaires (which included psychometric tests) were sent to 750 women at invitation and, 6 weeks after screening, to 420 women normal after the first mammograph, to 240 women normal after special assessment, and to 68 women normal after open biopsy. Increasing degree of the investigation was associated both with increasing frequency of breast self examination (10% were practising breast self-examination at least once a week before screening compared with 24% for women after special assessment and 35% of women who had had an open biopsy (p less than 0.001)), and with greater confidence that any malignancy in the breast would have been found. Psychometric scores showed no increase of general levels of anxiety or depression in the screened groups. For anxiety, percentages abnormal were 5, 4, 2 and 6 for the four groups, respectively, and for depression the percentages abnormal were 5, 4, 4 and 6, respectively; 10% of screened women were more anxious about having breast cancer as a result of the screening. At least 10% of women proceeding to open biopsy of benign lesions require professional counselling and support. Psychological ill effects were not detected by the psychometric test among women who did not proceed to this final investigation. Behavioural changes did suggest a raised awareness or fear of potential cancer among the screened population.


In tourism industry, tourists act as guests and tourism industry practitioners act as hosts. Typically tourism industry practitioners will try to act politely and follow politeness strategies as well as possible when serving tourists to ensure their satisfaction. Levels of satisfaction could be determined by the politeness of the hosts' behaviour towards their guests, including the politeness levels of their tourism-service language. This research was done in Surakarta Residency, the main tourist destination in Central Java. Data sources of this research came from (1) informants and (2) events.  The data were analyzed by Brown and Levinson's politeness strategies (1987). The results of this research show that the tourism industry practitioners in Surakarta Residency use various politeness strategies and levels in tourism-service language to serve their guests. keywords; Politeness Strategies; Politeness Levels;  Tourism-Service Language


We present a technique based on the Hilbert transform to quantify the thoraco-abdominal asynchrony (TAA) based on the phase shift between ribcage (RC) and abdomenal (AB) breathing signals acquired using respiratory inductive plethysmography (RIP). We employed this method to investigate RIP during overnight polysomnography (PSG) in 40 healthy children for analysis of their breathing patterns in various stages of sleep (ss 2, 3, 4 and REM) and in two common sleeping positions (supine and lateral). RIP signals free of respiratory or movement artifacts were segmented into 30 second epochs. Those epochs with maximum power in the quiet breathing frequency range and positional invariance throughout were included for further processing. TAA was calculated from corresponding RC and AB excursions. We found a statistically significant influence of sleep position on the level of TAA in all stages of non-REM sleep. In conclusion, the Hilbert transform provides a simple tool for the quantification of thoraco-abdominal asynchrony.


This paper proposes a new approach to online behaviour modelling based on heuristic patterns of behaviour. Such patterns of behaviour reflect the consumer's needs and limited information processing capabilities enabling more effective serving of information relevant to the consumer's needs in real time. Using website interactivity or data exchange with consumers through a purchase process offers previously untapped opportunities for value cocreation. The paper concludes with an outline of the requisite research to implement a realtime, needs-based information serving system and the theoretical advances that are likely to be gained from such research.


The problem of protecting route optimization related signaling in Mobile IPv6 is not easy to handle. The official solution, as contained in the Mobile IPv6 standard (RFC 3775), is vulnerable to certain eavesdropping and impersonation attacks. Alternative solutions, as proposed by ourselves and by others, each have their shortcomings. In this paper, we analyze and compare the alternatives, and make recommendations.


Stomatologists and dental practitioners, as they are called in different parts of the world according to tradition and history, are basically physicians who specialise in the study and treatment of diseases of the mouth and surrounding structures. They have always been outstanding in advocating the reduction of sugar consumption, mainly due to its direct connection to the pathogenesis of dental caries. Increasingly, it has come to the attention of researchers, epidemiologists and many healthcare workers and professionals that excessive consumption of sugar is also closely tied to the increase in tandem of our current major health issues like obesity, diabetes, heart, liver and kidney disease, and a host of other associated ailments. This development of current health crises throughout the world wherever traditional diets are replaced with modern fast food diets, which are usually packed with hidden, added refined sugars, is extremely troubling. It becomes all the more urgent and incumbent upon clinicians and stomatologists throughout the world to redouble their efforts to reduce and even eliminate the excessive consumption of added or extrinsic or secondary or hidden sugars to food and drinks. It will not only be to reduce dental caries, but also to reduce the many systemic and organ diseases associated with added sugars and which also exacerbate many oral diseases. This review is to give a basic history of sugar, the current understanding of sugar metabolism and the developing literature and research on the impact of sugar consumption on oral and overall health, as the mouth cannot be divorced from the body and vice versa. The author hopes to kick-start more research into this area that will result in various positive developments in the food and drink industry and persuade stakeholders to comprehensively address this universal health crisis that is closely tied to excessive consumption of added sugar in all its forms.


Nowadays, the sustainability of private university is highly depending on several factors such as competitive advantage, students' satisfaction and loyalty. The performance of those factors is affected by the financial ability of the university which generally comes from the students. The university management has to seriously put efforts to create value to the students. Value creation happens when the students get the benefits of the university's quality service, university reputation, and the reasonable tuition fee. The students' values are measured by the perception of the active students from the private universities that have been chosen as the respondents. The chosen private universities are Surabaya University (UBAYA), Ciputra University, Surabaya Higher School of Technology (STTS), Petra Christian University (UKP), Pelita Harapan University, and Widya Mandala University. The financial sustainability of private university is simultanuosly influenced by some variables which are competitive advantage, students' satisfaction and loyalty, as well as students' value creation. The result of the reseach shows that competitive advantage may create loyalty to the university, meanwhile the competitive advantage affects the financial sustainability of the university.


BACKGROUND
Integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs) have not been detected in Pasteurella multocida. In this study the multiresistance ICEPmu1 from bovine P. multocida was analysed for its core genes and its ability to conjugatively transfer into strains of the same and different genera.

METHODS
ICEPmu1 was identified during whole genome sequencing. Coding sequences were predicted by bioinformatic tools and manually curated using the annotation software ERGO. Conjugation into P. multocida, Mannheimia haemolytica and Escherichia coli recipients was performed by mating assays. The presence of ICEPmu1 and its circular intermediate in the recipient strains was confirmed by PCR and sequence analysis. Integration sites were sequenced. Susceptibility testing of the ICEPmu1-carrying recipients was conducted by broth microdilution.

RESULTS
The 82 214 bp ICEPmu1 harbours 88 genes. The core genes of ICEPmu1, which are involved in excision/integration and conjugative transfer, resemble those found in a 66 641 bp ICE from Histophilus somni. ICEPmu1 integrates into a tRNA(Leu) and is flanked by 13 bp direct repeats. It is able to conjugatively transfer to P. multocida, M. haemolytica and E. coli, where it also uses a tRNA(Leu) for integration and produces closely related 13 bp direct repeats. PCR assays and susceptibility testing confirmed the presence and the functional activity of the ICEPmu1-associated resistance genes in the recipient strains.

CONCLUSIONS
The observation that the multiresistance ICEPmu1 is present in a bovine P. multocida and can easily spread across strain and genus boundaries underlines the risk of a rapid dissemination of multiple resistance genes, which will distinctly decrease the therapeutic options.


In Nicomachean Ethics (= Eth. Nic.) 10.2, Aristotle addresses Eudoxus' argument that pleasure is the chief good in his characteristically dialectical manner. The argument is that pleasure is the chief good, since all creatures, rational (ἔλλογα) and non-rational (ἄλογα) alike, are perceived to aim at pleasure (1172b9–11). At 1172b35–1173a5, Aristotle turns to an objection against Eudoxus' argument. For some object (οἱ δ'ἐνιστάμενοι) to the argument by questioning one of its premisses, namely that what all creatures aim at is the good (1172b12–15). Instead, they claim that what all creatures aim at is not good (ὡς οὐκ ἀγαθὸν οὗ πάντ' ἐφίεται, 1172b36). This claim is reasonably taken to mean that not everything that all creatures aim at is good. But, as we shall shortly see, Aristotle dismisses it in a way suggesting a less charitable interpretation. At any rate, the significance of this objection is that it challenges the strong claim that what all creatures aim at is the good with an argument against the weaker claim that what all creatures aim at is good (or a good). For if the weaker claim is refuted, then the strong claim is refuted as well. Aristotle takes issue with the argument against the weaker claim, but without committing himself to the strong claim.


The extension of radio frequency complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) circuitry into millimeter wavelengths promises the extension of spectroscopic techniques in compact, power efficient systems. We are now beginning to use CMOS millimeter devices for low-mass, low-power instrumentation capable of remote or in situ detection of gas composition during space missions. We have chosen to develop a Flygare-Balle type spectrometer, with a semi-confocal Fabry-Perot cavity to amplify the pump power of a mm-wavelength CMOS transmitter that is directly coupled to the planar mirror of the cavity. We have built a pulsed transceiver system at 92-105 GHz inside a 3 cm base length cavity and demonstrated quality factor up to 4680, allowing for modes with 20 MHz bandwidth, with a sufficient cavity amplification factor for mW class transmitters. This work describes the initial gas measurements and outlines the challenges and next steps.


The age gap among generations has been getting bigger as the average life span has broadened and the age when people get married and give birth has grown higher. Also, more and more women go out in the world and do social activities and there is the ongoing and strength-gaining tendency that old people take a greater responsibility in domestic chores. On the other hand, the aged who are incapable of doing household chores and only do a limited circle of things due to worse health conditions in this aging society do feel left out as an outsider in terms of their spiritual status and housing life. There is found an increasing number of those cases since the perception of the traditional support and attitude toward one's family undergoes changes. In addition, the environment of residence in a general apartment house which was not designed and built considering the three generations together in a home is necessarily poor. The bad news is that apartment houses of limited space are more common than detached homes which give a great flexibility in space extension and alteration.
With these problems under consideration, this study set out to classify patterns of living space use of families of three generations living together in an apartment house, to get a grasp of the characteristics and problems, and finally to compare the preference for three generations' living together and the spatial appropriateness according to patterns of living space use.


The Western Balkans is home to the most polluting power plants in Europe, and its transport and energy infrastructure require updates. Not surprisingly, countries such as Kosovo, are suffering from severe urban air pollution and traffic congestion as a result of high dependence on fossil fuels in the energy matrix, inefficient transport system and aging vehicle fleets. These substantially harm public health, productivity and efficiency in urban mobility. Kosovo is implementing the EU enacted Stabilization Tracking Mechanism programme, aiming to gradually integrate its national policies on legal, economic and social matters with the EU. On 6 February 2018, the European Commission published its expansion plan to cover up to six Western Balkan countries including Kosovo with potential accession as members of the EU after 2025. This is relevant for vehicle emissions as it entails implementation of EU vehicle emission and fuel standards. The development objective of this project is to support the government of Kosovo and City of Pristina to develop strategies to reduce emissions and pollutions from transport perspective, such as modernization and better management of public and private vehicle fleets, and to scope for components and activities to be considered as part of potential Develop Policy Financing or Investment Project Financing by the World Bank The layout of the report includes the following sections: Chapter second realizes a rapid assessment of vehicle pollution for Kosovo including vehicle emission trends. Chapter third list in a summarized manner major instruments to reduce transportation emissions. Based on the problem and solution description policies are selected which are assessed in further detail to curb vehicle emissions in Kosovo. These policies or interventions were selected based on on-going plans and activities and interest from the Government. They include usage of low-emission buses (chapter fourth), fiscal instruments to promote low-emitting vehicles (chapter fifth) and implementation of in-service vehicle emission testing.


Introduction Gallstone disease is treated commonly with cholecystectomy. Malignant disease of the gallbladder may present similarly and has a poor prognosis. It is common for cholecystectomy specimens to be sent for histological examination to exclude malignancy. However, the incidence of incidental gallbladder carcinoma (IGBC) is low and it has therefore been suggested that macroscopic inspection of the gallbladder by the surgeon, followed by selective histological examination of abnormal specimens, may be safe and cost saving. Methods All cholecystectomies performed between 1 May 2003 and 1 September 2009 were identified from clinical coding. Pathology records were used to identify gallbladder malignancies; these were searched manually to identify IGBC. Pathology reports and case notes were cross-referenced to determine whether there were macroscopic abnormalities present. Annual cost savings were estimated by comparing the number of gallbladder specimens over one year (May 2013 - April 2014) with the total number of cholecystectomies performed in that time. Results Of 4,776 cholecystectomies identified, 12 (0.25%) were cases of IGBC. These cases had a higher median age (68 vs 54 years, p<0.001) and a higher proportion were emergency operations (50% vs 12%, p<0.001). All cases had some form of macroscopic abnormality, most commonly wall thickening (n=6, 50%). Only two cases (17%) had a visible tumour present. Conclusions All cases of IGBC in this study had a macroscopically abnormal gallbladder. Our findings suggest it is safe to adopt a selective approach to histological examination. Savings of almost £20,500 per annum have been achieved.


Achieving reliable ground cover maps and high classification accuracies using limited ground truth is a key challenge for hyperspectral data analysts. In this paper, we explore the benefits of combining spectral derivative information along with reflectance information for hyperspectral classification. In addition to providing useful class-specific slope information, spectral derivatives are likely to be invariant to variations in illumination and atmospheric conditions. Potential benefits of including spectral derivative information for hyperspectral classification are studied within the context of conventional dimensionality reduction and single classification systems, as well as using a recently proposed multi-classifier decision fusion system. Classification results with experimental hyperspectral data demonstrate the benefits of the proposed approach.


Facing the technical problem of pulse distortion caused by frequent resetting in the latest high-performance silicon drift detectors, which work under high-counting-rate conditions, a method has been used to remove false peaks in order to obtain a precise X-ray spectrum, the essence of which eliminates distorted pulses. Aiming at solving the problem of counting-loss generated by eliminating distorted pulses, this paper proposes an improved method of pulse repairing. A 238Pu source with activity of 10 mCi was used as the measurement object, and the energy spectrum obtained by the pulse repairing method was compared with that obtained by the pulse elimination method. The ten-measurement results show that the pulse repairing method can correct the counting-loss caused by the pulse elimination method and increase peak area, which is of great significance for obtaining a precise X-ray energy spectrum.


Association between obesity and chronic kidney disease has received great attention in the recent years. This study aimed to characterize the efficiency of the Camel's foot tree, Bauhinia variegata L. ethanolic leaves extract (BEX) against kidney damage in high fat diet (HFD) fed male rats, as a model of obesity. Rats were randomly divided into five groups, the first three served as control, vehicle and BEX (40 mg/100 g body wt.), while the other two groups were fed HFD with and without BEX at the same mentioned dose, daily for 12 weeks. Results showed significantly increased weight gain, absolute and relative kidney weights, serum and kidney lipids, accompanied by elevated levels of urea and creatinine in serum of HFD-fed rats. Results also revealed marked reduction of kidney nitric oxide, alkaline phosphatase and gamma glutamyl transferase, with elevation in their activities in serum of the obese rats. An increase in the oxidative stress markers; malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide, paralleled by reduction of total antioxidant capacity, glutathione, glucose-6-phosphatase dehydrogenase and the antioxidant enzymes; superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase were also detected. This goes with decline of the anti-apoptotic Bcl2 and elevation in the pro-apoptotic Bax and caspase-3, followed by increased apoptosis% and cell cycle arrest with decline in cells at S and G2/GM phases. Meanwhile, a significant reduction in RBCs count, Hb content and related indices was demonstrated. In contrast, administration of BEX to HFD-fed rats significantly ameliorated increased weight gain, oxidative stress, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and hematological changes, thereby restored kidney functional parameters near the normal values, suggesting BEX as a promising natural therapy for managing obesity and associated kidney disease.


In this article, we survey the developments in the generalised models of repairable systems reliability during 1990s, particularly the last five years. In this field, we notice the sharp fundamental problem that voluminous complex models were developed but there is an absence of sufficient data of interest for justifying the success in tackling the real engineering problems. Instead of following the myth of using simple models to face the complex reality, we select and review some practical models, particularly the stochastic processes behind them. The Models in three quick growth areas: age models, condition monitoring technique related models, say, proportional intensity and their extensions, and shock and wearing models, including the delay-time models are reviewed. With the belief that only those stochastic processes reflecting the instinct nature of the actual physical processes of repairable systems, without excessive assumptions, may have a better chance to meet the demands of engineers and managers.


The construction of a high performance and stable non-precious metal–air-cathode is of great significance for a Zn–air battery (ZAB). Herein, 3D nanosheets consisting of N-doped carbon conglutinated CoFe alloy nanoparticles grown on carbon cloth (CoFe@NC/CC) have been prepared through simple electrodeposition and subsequent thermal decomposition. The cathode showed excellent activity and stability for the bifunctional oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), due to the synergic effect of the CoFe alloy and the N-doped carbon conglutinated structures. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrated that the introduction of the N-doped carbon structures can greatly weaken the O2 adsorption energy on the CoFe alloy nanoparticles, thus enhancing the bifunctional ORR/OER activity of the catalyst. As a binder-less self-supporting electrode, the assembled liquid ZAB showed a high open circuit voltage of 1.469 V, and it could be stably cycled for more than 400 cycles with a charge–discharge voltage gap of 0.77 V at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, surpassing the performance of Pt/C + RuO2/C benchmarks and other reported CoFe-based electrocatalysts. Furthermore, the all-solid-state ZAB was shown to be a battery with good flexibility for wearable electronics, satisfying the requirements of next-generation sustainable active electronics.


Down syndrome is the most common birth defect, and is caused by trisomy 21. We identified a novel gene in the so-called Down syndrome critical region by means of computer-aided exon prediction and subsequent cDNA cloning. The gene, designated as DCRA (Down syndrome Critical Region gene A), consists of eight exons of 3,252 bp in total and encodes a large open reading frame of 297 amino acid residues. The open reading frame shows significant homology to Hbeta58, a mouse gene essential for embryogenesis, PEP8, a yeast homologue of Hbeta58, and an expressed sequence tag of Arabidopsis thariana, suggesting that DCRA has some important function that has been conserved during the course of evolution. DCRA is expressed in most tissues examined, including fetal and adult brain, heart, lung, liver, and kidney. The cDNA of the DCRA mouse homologue, Dcra, was also cloned. It is 2,157 bp long and has an open reading frame of 297 amino acid residues, which shows 92% identity to human DCRA. Dcra is expressed in all the embryo and adult tissues examined.


The repeatability of facial soft tissue thickness measurements at 10 standard anatomical landmarks was evaluated using lateral X-ray images obtained from 50 adult subjects. The intra-and inter-observer error rates were calculated after four practitioners took measurements using Denta Pacs 8.1 software. The results indicated high inter- and intra-observer repeatability, suggesting X-ray images can be used to measure facial soft tissue thicknesses for the purpose of craniofacial reconstruction and superimposition.


A strain from human diarrhea originally identified as Campylobacter mucosalis (NCTC 12408) was examined by using 64 phenotypic characters. The similarity of this strain to 297 isolates of Campylobacter, Helicobacter, Arcobacter, and related taxa was then determined with a computer-supported data analysis program, MVSP. NCTC 12408 showed closest similarity to 20 type, reference, and field isolates of Campylobacter concisus. These strains were clearly separated from those of C. mucosalis in the numerical analysis of phenotypic tests; a table was constructed from the data used to aid in differentiating these two species in the clinical laboratory. The identity of NCTC 12408 was confirmed as C. concisus by visual comparison of its sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel whole-cell protein electrophoregram with those of type strains of C. concisus and C. mucosalis. These data suggest that genuine human infection with C. mucosalis has not yet been reported.


Air- and water-stable chiral catalyst trisoxazolines 4-6/Cu(ClO4)(2).6H(2)O have been used in the Diels-Alder reaction of cyclopentadiene with acryloyl-2-oxazolidinones or ketoesters. The reaction is carried out in air and up to 82% ee was achieved.


A control strategy is proposed for AC thyristor controllers. The main feature of the proposed technique is that motors can start with high torque, while using an economical design. This allows the use of AC thyristor controllers for a wide range of applications, where they have not been used before. The method employs the AC thyristor controller as a discrete frequency inverter that increases the frequency until the frequency of the line is reached (60 Hz in this case). These discrete frequencies produced by the control are sub-multiples of line frequency. They are generated by omission or inclusion of line frequency half cycles. Voltage sequences are predefined for each sub-multiple of line frequency. In order to obtain positive torque for all these frequencies, the system is unbalanced. The proposed control is simulated (using EMTP), and built. Comparisons are done with the traditional AC thyristor starter. Results show reduced RMS starting current, increased starting torque and the possibility to operate at low speeds.


In the field of high performance primary battery
systems lithium anoded cells have been shown to have an
excellent performance and extremely good shelf life. The
major drawback with the lithium technology is one of safety,
whereby abuse conditions (such as charging of the cell) lead
to an unstable system with the very real possibility of a
cell explosion. For a commercially available cell
consideration of safety issues would preclude the marketing
of a high performance lithium cell for general use, rather,
it will be reserved for specialist e.g. Military use where
the personnel having contact with the power source can be
trained in its safe operation.
The work described in this thesis is concerned with the
development of a high performance battery system utilising
calcium as the anode material. Calcium has received
attention as an anode material for a high performance
battery system because it removes many of the safety
problems associated with lithium. The major disadvantages of
calcium have been addressed namely the shelf life and
discharge performance. The electrochemical techniques of
cyclic voltammetry and a.c. impedance have been used in
conjunction with physical methods such as scanning electron
microscopy to define the mode of operation of these cells.


Introduction: It has been noticed that human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and anti-retro viral (ART) therapy, both individually lead to bone metabolic disorders, and hence, such patients have an increased propensity for fractures following trivial trauma. Case Report: We present two cases, first a 52-year-old female with the right hip pain and inability to walk since 1 week following trivial trauma and associated dull pain in the left hip since 2 months ago. Radiographs revealed a right intertrochanteric fracture and a left unicortical fracture at level of lesser-trochanter. The patient was managed with closed proximal femoral nailing bilaterally and subsequently mobilized. Second, a 70- year-old female with bilateral leg pain and swelling following trivial trauma since 3 days. Radiographs revealed a distal one-third shaft tibia and fibula fracture bilaterally managed with closed nailing bilaterally and subsequently mobilized. Both patients had HIV infection since 10 and 14 years, respectively, and were on combination ART. Conclusion: There should be a high index of suspicion to the possibility of fragility fractures in HIV affected patients on ART. Principles of fracture fixation and early mobilization should be followed.


| Background: The purpose of this study was to review the results of using bone chips as bone grafts in the management fractures of long bone. This autologous bone graft was harvested from the part of the healthy bone just adjacent to the fracture site by surgical drilling for the purpose of internal fixation. This technique of collection of bone pieces and their utilization is novel as no previous study on this technique is found in the literature. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study conducted between August 2012 and February 2014. Total one hundred and two patients of long bone fractures were rigidly fixed internally on standard AO principles in King Edward Medical University/ Mayo Hospital, Lahore. In all these cases surgical drill extract was used as bone graft and was placed at the fracture site. Each operation was performed by the same surgical team. Healing was determined radiographically by the presence of trabeculations across the fracture. Results: Majority 87 % of the operated fractures showed sign of healing after 12 weeks and 100% of fractures healed after 16 weeks. No patient included in the study showed signs of nonunion and deep infection. Conclusion: Bone graft harvested from the native bone by surgical drill bit can be used efficiently in the management of long bone fractures in conjunction with the rigid internal fixation. Received | 04-12-2017: Accepted | 30-09-2018 Corresponding Author | Dr. Raza Elahi Rana, Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, KEMU/ Mayo Hospital, Lahore. Email: email@example.com


To achieve higher protein immobilization and bioactivity, as well as automatic manipulation, we prepared a new type of biocarrier based on the brushed beads-on-beads structure. Many poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) brushed nanoparticles were packed onto the surface of amino-functionalized magnetic particles through an efficient carbodiimide-assisted coupling reaction to attain a hierarchical structure, a unique three-dimensional (3D) space and automatic manipulation characteristics. The proposed biocarrier was evaluated in the recognition capability of the immunocomplex and showed a 6.7-fold increase compared with control beads with a hard surface. The results of this study suggest promising applications in targeted capture and high-performance biodetection processes.


(1) Flumazenil is a highly specific benzodiazepine (BZ) antagonist. It exerts its effect by competitive interaction at the BZ receptor site. (ii) Flumazenil antagonizes all central BZ effects irrespective of its contiguity to the BZ administration. (iii) The pharmacological effect of flumazenil depends upon the number of BZ receptors that can be occupied by flumazenil according to the mass-action law. Receptor occupancy is determined by the affinity of the BZ for the receptor and the free BZ concentration near the receptor. (iv) The minimal effective dose of flumazenil is 0.2 mg. After extreme BZ overdose 1 mg may be needed. (v) The optimal dosing strategy starts with an initial dose of flumazenil 0.2 mg i.v. The administration of further low doses of 0.1 mg at 1-min intervals allows the interruption of the injection of flumazenil exactly at the stage of vigilance that is most convenient for the patient. (vi) The duration of effect depends upon the type and dose of the administered BZ, the dose of flumazenil, and the time interval between flumazenil and the BZ administration. (vii) The therapeutic or safety index is above 3000, which means that a 3000 times overdose is still tolerated.


The behavior of spontaneous otoacoustic emissions (SOAEs) is affected by external stimuli. A series of experiments was conducted with 25 normal-hearing subjects to explore multiple and bilateral SOAEs, frequency and amplitude drift of SOAEs, suppression functions and existence regions for distortion products generated by the interaction of SOAEs and external tones.


There is increasing evidence that the gut microbiota affects the incidence and progression of central nervous system diseases via the brain-gut axis. The spinal cord is a vital important part of the central nervous system; however, the underlying association between spinal cord injury and gut interactions remains unknown. Recent studies suggest that patients with spinal cord injury frequently experience intestinal dysfunction and gut dysbiosis. Alterations in the gut microbiota can cause disruption in the intestinal barrier and trigger neurogenic inflammatory responses which may impede recovery after spinal cord injury. This review summarizes existing clinical and basic research on the relationship between the gut microbiota and spinal cord injury. Our research identified three key points. First, the gut microbiota in patients with spinal cord injury presents a key characteristic and gut dysbiosis may profoundly influence multiple organs and systems in patients with spinal cord injury. Second, following spinal cord injury, weakened intestinal peristalsis, prolonged intestinal transport time, and immune dysfunction of the intestine caused by abnormal autonomic nerve function, as well as frequent antibiotic treatment, may induce gut dysbiosis. Third, the gut microbiota and associated metabolites may act on central neurons and affect recovery after spinal cord injury; cytokines and the Toll-like receptor ligand pathways have been identified as crucial mechanisms in the communication between the gut microbiota and central nervous system. Fecal microbiota transplantation, probiotics, dietary interventions, and other therapies have been shown to serve a neuroprotective role in spinal cord injury by modulating the gut microbiota. Therapies targeting the gut microbiota or associated metabolites are a promising approach to promote functional recovery and improve the complications of spinal cord injury.


Software Estimation Best Practices, Tools & Techniques covers all facets of software estimation. It provides a detailed explanation of the various methods for estimating software size, development effort, cost, and schedule, including a comprehensive explanation of test effort estimation. This unique desk reference, for the novice to expert, also offers direction on which methods are most appropriate for each of the different software project types commonly executed and criteria for selecting software estimation tools. Key Features -- Presents software estimation best practices and shows how to avoid common pitfalls -- Demonstrates a practical methodology with templates for using Delphi estimation and analogy-based estimation for software projects -- Introduces a new method referred to as software size units for measuring software size that does not make use of the untenable concept of complexity for adjusting software size -- Provides useful methods for converting software size to effort, deriving true productivity, and analyzing variances between actual and estimated values as a tool for productivity improvement -- WAV offers a free downloadable test effort estimation tool (TPPal), a software size unit estimation tool (SSUPal), and a 180-day demo for a comprehensive estimation tool known as EstimatorPal available from the Web Added Value Download Resource Center at jrosspub.com


Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are pleiotropic ligands in the TGF-β superfamily. In the early to mid-2000s, several BMPs, including BMP2, were shown to regulate FSH synthesis alone and in synergy with activins in immortalized gonadotrope-like cell lines and primary pituitary cultures. Activins are also TGF-β family members, which were identified and named based on their abilities to stimulate FSH production selectively. Mechanistic analyses suggested that BMP2 promoted expression of the FSHβ subunit gene (Fshb) via at least two nonmutually exclusive mechanisms. First, BMP2 stimulated the production of the inhibitor of DNA-binding proteins 1, 2, and 3 (Id1, Id2, and Id3), which potentiated the stimulatory actions of homolog of Drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic 3 (SMAD3) on the Fshb promoter. SMAD3 is an intracellular signaling protein that canonically mediates the actions of activins and is an essential regulator of Fshb production in vitro and in vivo. Second, BMP2 was shown to activate SMAD3-dependent signaling via its canonical type IA receptor, BMPR1A (also known as ALK3). This was a surprising result, as ALK3 conventionally activates distinct SMAD proteins. Although these initial results were compelling, they were challenged by contemporaneous and subsequent observations. For example, inhibitors of BMP signaling did not specifically impair FSH production in cultured pituitary cells. Of perhaps greater significance, mice lacking ALK3 in gonadotrope cells produced FSH normally. Therefore, the physiological role of BMPs in FSH synthesis in vivo is presently uncertain.


Acral fibromyxoma (AF) is a slow growing benign soft tissue tumor with predilection to subungal and periungal region of the hands or feet. CD34 is consistently expressed whereas very recently loss of Rb1 expression was described as a possible driver molecular event for this entity. Herein we present two additional cases of AF with loss of Rb1 expression by IHC and subsequent confirmation of loss of the RB1 gene locus by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We hope to raise awareness in dermatopathology community of this new discovery, which can be diagnostically exploitable for this distinct and probably underreported neoplasm.


Classic sociological theory emphasizing human ecology and the convergence of persons in time and space motivated the "routine activities" approach in criminological research. Empirical work in this tradition focuses on predatory offending, and it has rarely been considered as a theoretical basis for the study of more common, low-level (mostly nonviolent) deviance. Using commonplace "automotive incivility" as a test case, the present work draws on the routine activities approach in precisely this manner to answer recent theoretical calls for an empirical sociology of familiar encounters and situations. Using data from a nationally representative sample of Australians, this article looks at the time/space distribution, situational commonalities, and emotional consequences of vehicular incivilities. Risk factors consistent with the routine activities paradigm include everyday driving activity and microsituations involving mixed speeds, crowded conditions, and blocked flows. Results also suggest that automotive incivility is more likely than other types of incivility to incite feelings of fear and anger.


A sensitive immunoassay based on immunomagnetic beads for measuring carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) concentration in cancer cells was presented in this article. We used immunomagnetic beads to separate CEA in the gastric cancer cells and those CEA could be marked with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) labeled anti-CEA secondary antibody. The HRP could catalyze non-fluorescent 10-acetyl-3,7-dihydroxyphenoxazine (ADHP) with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to fluorescent products. Therefore, the CEA concenctration was quanlified by flourescence intensity at 585 nm emission wavelength. The flourescence intensity of the product responged well linearly to CEA concentration in the range from 3.0 to 60 ng/mL with a lower detection limit of 1.5 ng/mL(3σ). This method could be applied to determine tumor markers in gastric cancer cells.


The fountain darter Etheostoma fonticola (FOD) is a federally endangered fish listed under the US Endangered Species Act. Here, we identified and characterized a novel aquareovirus isolated from wild fountain darters inhabiting the San Marcos River. This virus was propagated in Chinook salmon embryo (CHSE)-214, rainbow trout gonad-2 and fathead minnow cells at 15°C. The epithelioma papulosum cyprini cell line was refractory at all temperatures evaluated. High throughput sequencing technologies facilitated the complete genome sequencing of this virus utilizing ribosomal RNA-depleted RNA extracted from infected CHSE-214 cells. Conventional PCR primer sets were developed for the detection and confirmation of this virus to assist diagnostic screening methods. Phylogenetic analysis suggests this virus belongs to the Aquareovirus A genus. This research provides requisite initial data critical to support hatchery and refugia biosecurity measures for this endangered species.


Abstract In this paper, the results of a series of experiments funded by DARPA to determine the feasibility of using small actuators to provide directional control for a supersonic projectile are presented. Controlling the flight of the projectile was accomplished by taking advantage of complex shock-boundary-layer interactions produced by mechanical devices. Experimental tests were conducted at GTRI to screen several control concepts and actuator locations. Further experiments were conducted on a scale projectile in a supersonic stream to investigate the rise time of the forces. Several different mechanical actuators were tested which served to provide guidance for future actuator designs. CFD results were also used to predict the results in flight as well as gain insights into the fluid mechanics involved. Flight tests of a Mach 4 round proved the viability of the guidance actuator.


Introduction: During the past years, alveolar recruitment maneuvers (RM) have produced growing interest due to their beneficial potential in pulmonary protection, and have been introduced in clinical practice.  Objective : To describe and analyze the knowledge of MR and its application at seven intensive care units in the city of Cali, Colombia. Methods and materials : Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study with an intentional sample of 64 professionals working in seven intensive care units and who apply MR. The self-completed survey was made up of thirteen questions, and the application period was two months.  Results : Out of 64 professionals surveyed, 77.8% of them follow a protocol guide; 54.7% employes during RM the ideal Positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), which maintains a saturation > 90% and a PaO2 > 60 mmHg; 42.1% tolerates airway pressures between 35 and 50 cmH2O; 48.4% perform RM with a progressive increase of the PEEP and a low tidal volume.  Conclusions : Regarding the knowledge related to RM, heterogeneity was found in the answers. There is currently no consensus about which is the most effective and secure way to implement an MR. This study can be the starting point to create awareness towards the revision of knowledge, capacities and abilities that are required to perform RM.


Protein patterning has emerged as a powerful means to interrogate adhering cells. However, the tools to apply a sub-micrometer periodic stimulus and the analysis of the response are still being standardized. We propose a technique combining electron beam lithography and surface functionalization to fabricate nanopatterns compatible with advanced imaging. The repetitive pattern enables a deep-learning algorithm to reveal that T cells organize their membrane and actin network differently depending upon whether the ligands are clustered or homogeneously distributed, an effect invisible to the unassisted human eye even after extensive image analysis. This fabrication and analysis toolbox should be useful, both together and separately, for exploring general correlation between a spatially structured subcellular stimulation and a subtle cellular response.


is little discussion of the modern approach to evolution based on work in genetics, and virtually no attention given to the many studies that have been made in systematics, the problem of speciation as based on statistical analyses and the like. Such is not Gregory's purpose. His is a survey of the rise and development of vertebrates and of the structures which comprise vertebrate anatomy. In this light, the work will be of particular value to students of vertebrate evolution, especially comparative anatomists and vertebrate paleontologists. Here one will find a summary of Gregory's work on the vertebrates that, during the past four decades, had so much influence on the subject of vertebrate paleontology. For such students the second volume of the work, devoted entirely to comparative figures, will be of extraordinary value. There is an extensive bibliography, arranged in parts coinciding with the six large divisions of the text.


In this paper, problems of the online diagnostics of multiple faults in large scale systems are presented. Possibilities of recognition of multiple faults based on the knowledge of signatures of the single faults are discussed. The distinction between simultaneous faults and the series of faults is introduced and defined. The necessary condition for diagnostic reasoning assuming an occurrence of multiple faults is formulated. This paper will show that multiple faults appearing simultaneously or within short time intervals are correctly isolated under the assumption of single faults, if the subsets of faults suitable for isolation are disjunctive. A novel, practical and easy to implement algorithm designed for reasoning multiple faults is presented. An industrial example of the online diagnostics of a steam-water line of the power boiler is given.


Background Retirement Villages (RVs) for older people represent a burgeoning industry. However, we know little about residents' demographics and health/disability issues - information which could inform health planning, facilitate independence and reduce service demand. RVs are semi-closed communities: access for researchers is most conveniently gained via RV managers. We are studying RV residents in Auckland, New Zealand (NZ) to acquire demographic, health, disability and social data, with a randomized-controlled-trial of a multidisciplinary intervention aimed to reduce adverse outcomes. We here describe recruitment problems we encountered. Methods We planned to approach all RVs in Auckland/Waitemata Districts, with random sampling of residents in each village using unit/apartment lists as the sampling frame. Exclusions: Refusal of/inability to consent (complying with NZ legislation; ACER<65, or person clinicians felt lacked capacity). We planned access via RV managers and contact residents by 'letter-drop' then 'door-knocks'. In 'small' RVs (n<60 units), we planned to contact all residents, with random selection in 'larger' RVs. Results We approached managers of 53 of the 65 RVs. 38 initially replied positively, of which 34 permitted us to recruit residents, 6 did not reply. Another 9 declined our �rst approach, of which eight were 'small', seven independently-owned. Some managers prohibited 'letter-drops' or 'door-knocks' at all or without prior residents' meetings to assess acceptance of this methodology. Hence, we had to recruit volunteers (in 23 villages) via residents' meetings, posters/newsletters and word-of-mouth. We recruited 578 residents from 33 villages (one village had no volunteers) (median age=82yrs; 420 female; 217 sampled, 361 volunteers). Conclusions Due to organizational/managers' policy, and the fact that NZ legislation did not allow recruitment of residents without legal capacity to consent, our sample does not fully represent our RV population. Future RV research should consider alternative recruitment strategies random sampling from national census, electoral roll, or via residents' organizations.


This study examines reporting on protests in Iran between late December 2017 and early January 2018 by global news agencies located in the United States (Associated Press [AP]), United Kingdom (Reuters), France (Agence France-Presse [AFP]), China (Xinhua), and Russia (Telegraph Agency of the Soviet Union [TASS]). A census of reporting on the protests (N = 369) was content analyzed. Results demonstrate that news agencies varied considerably in their portrayal of issues defined as problems, diagnosis of causes, moral evaluations, and treatment recommendations. Reporting by Xinhua differed considerably from Western news agencies and featured a greater proportion of stories recommending maintenance of the status quo in Iran. Calls for political change received more attention in privately owned news agencies based in democratic nations. While the use of sources in news stories was generally similar across agencies, protesters were absent in reporting by state-owned agencies. Results conclude that differences in national interests and/or ownership of global news agencies may explain findings and provide insight into news reporting on foreign protest.


Late tooth morphogenesis is characterized by a series of events that determine crown morphogenesis and the histodifferentiation of epithelial cells into enamel-secreting ameloblasts and of mesenchymal cells into dentin-secreting odontoblasts. Functional ameloblasts are tall, columnar, polarized cells that synthesize and secrete a number of enamel-specific proteins. After depositing the full thickness of enamel matrix, ameloblasts shrink in size and regulate enamel maturation. Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a heterogeneous group of inherited defects in enamel formation. Clinically, AI presents as a spectrum of enamel malformations that are categorized as hypoplastic, hypocalcified, or hypomaturation types, based upon the thickness and hardness of the enamel. The different types of AI are inherited, either as X-linked, autosomal-dominant, or autosomal-recessive traits. Recently, several gene mutations have been identified to cause the subtypes of AI. How these genes, however, coordinate their function to control amelogenesis is not understood. In this review, we discuss the role of genes that play definitive role on the determination of ameloblast cell fate and life cycle based on studies in transgenic animals.


Carcinoid heart disease is an uncommon manifestation of carcinoid syndrome that can present to a cardiac surgeon as a complex constellation of structural problems. Patients develop progressive valve disease, more commonly of the right-sided heart valves but sometimes involving the left, which will in turn impact cardiac function. Without intervention, carcinoid heart disease portends a dismal prognosis. Given the rarity with which these cases are encountered, in conjunction with their complexity, it is important for the cardiac surgeon to be equipped with the knowledge of how to operate on these patients and the challenges likely to be faced.

 A 72-year-old man, who had previously undergone small bowel resection for multifocal neuroendocrine tumours, was referred to our centre with significant symptomatic carcinoid heart valvulopathy affecting the tricuspid, mitral and aortic valves. He successfully underwent triple valve replacement and permanent epicardial pacing system implantation along with coronary artery bypass grafting. He was discharged after an inpatient stay of two weeks and is well at follow-up.

 Triple valve replacement is infrequently performed in the UK, but all centres ought to be prepared to offer this treatment in a select group of patients. In this report we describe the technicalities of performing such an operation and the relevant surgical anatomy, the rationale and technique of pre-emptive epicardial pacing system implantation, and both the pre- and post-operative management of such patients.


Multi-object spectrometers (MOSs) are astronomical instruments capable of accurately acquiring spectra of up to several hundreds of objects of interest in a single exposure. Digital micromirror devices (DMDs) have proven to be an excellent candidate for use as slit masks in both terrestrial and space-based MOSs because they are highly reliable and rapidly re-configurable. The Rochester Institute of Technology Multi-Object Spectrometer (RITMOS) is a terrestrial DMD-based MOS, which uses a newer generation DMD, with improved scattered light characteristics. RITMOS utilizes a 0.700 XGA DMD with a micromirror pitch of 13.68 microns and a micromirror flip angle of 12 degrees. By design, RITMOS covers the spectral range 3900 - 4900 angstroms, with a dispersion of 0.7 angstroms per pixel; the resolving power is R∼5300. Performance evaluation has been conducted both in the laboratory and on-sky. The results presented here show that DMD-based MOSs are highly capable instruments, offering great observational flexibility, while achieving excellent signal-to-noise ratios by optimally rejecting the sky background.


SUMMARY Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) is a major bioactive lipid that is enzymatically generated by phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Previously, we showed that LPC is present in the saliva of the blood-sucking hemipteran Rhodnius prolixus and modulates cell-signaling pathways involved in vascular biology, which aids blood feeding. Here, we show that the saliva of the predator insect Belostoma anurum contains a large number of lipids with LPC accounting for 25% of the total phospholipids. A PLA2 enzyme likely to be involved in LPC generation was characterized. The activity of this enzyme is 5-fold higher in Belostoma saliva than in other studied hemipterans, suggesting a close association with the predator feeding habits of this insect. Belostoma employs extra-oral digestion, which allows for ingestion of larger prey than itself, including small vertebrates such as amphibians and fish. Therefore, prey immobilization during digestion is essential, and we show here that Belostoma saliva and B. anurum saliva purified LPC have paralytic activity in zebrafish. This is the first evidence that lysophospholipids might play an important role in prey immobilization, in addition to contributing to blood feeding, and might have been an evolutionary acquisition that occurred long before the appearance of hematophagy in this animal group.


Many scholars agree that cultural differences affect text organization and pragmatic realization of the communicative goal of a genre, and that certain moves within a genre can be accomplished by different strategies. However, there is a dearth of research on job application letters in the context of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and knowledge about cultural differences in terms of politeness strategies in this region is limited. This study investigated move and politeness strategies used in job application letters written by ASEAN applicants. Data were collected from 30 job application letters written by applicants from six different nationalities. Two coding schemes were employed, and the results showed that ASEAN applicants employed slightly different strategies in their moves, including promoting candidature and enclosing documents. The findings also suggested that ASEAN applicants mostly use positive politeness strategies to self-promote and negative politeness strategies to encourage further contact. Interestingly, three positive strategies which were previously found only in spoken communication (i.e., conventional indirectness, impersonal tone, and nominalization) were employed by ASEAN applicants in this study. In sum, ASEAN writers as a whole represent a region that shares a great deal of communicative norms in the genre of job application letters.


A 57-year old patient with a paralytic ileus of unknown origin was admitted to the intensive care unit. Because of the laboratory findings with therapy resistant hypokalemia, hypercalcemia and metabolic acidosis a VIPoma was suspected. Therapy with somatostatin resulted in correction of laboratory abnormalities and in normalization of gastrointestinal motility. Plasma concentrations of VIP and PP were elevated, ultrasonography revealed a pancreatic tumor. Postsurgical examination of the removal tumor tissue confirmed the diagnosis of a malignant VIPoma. Clinical symptoms, laboratory findings with and without somatostatin-therapy and immunhistochemical properties are described.


The major challenge of machine learning based image steganalysis lies in obtaining powerful feature representations. Recently, Qian et al. have shown that Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) is effective for learning features automatically for steganalysis. In this paper, we follow up this new paradigm in steganalysis, and propose a framework based on transfer learning to help the training of CNN for steganalysis, hence to achieve a better performance. We show that feature representations learned with a pre-trained CNN for detecting a steganographic algorithm with a high payload can be efficiently transferred to improve the learning of features for detecting the same steganographic algorithm with a low pay-load. By detecting representative WOW and S-UNIWARD steganographic algorithms, we demonstrate that the proposed scheme is effective in improving the feature learning in CNN models for steganalysis.


In this paper, we report an initial design of humanoid head platform for RoboCup humanoid challenge. While many researches in RoboCup humanoid challenge naturally focus on walking and running behaviors, we focus on perception and high-level behavior issues using an upper-torso humanoid. We have designed a head/neck part of the humanoid with aesthetically designed appearance, and various processing for early perception and associated reflex. The goal of this paper is to illustrate issues in designing humanoid head platform for high-level cognition research, and provide some of initial insights obtained during the early stage of implementations. With regards to perception, the emphasis will be placed on how interaction between different perception channel and motor control can complement each other to improve processing.


A computer-aided methodology that applies the Finite Element Method (FEM) to gear design is presented in this work. The analysis takes into account the real tooth profile created by the involute flank of the tooth and the trochoidal fillet at the bottom of the tooth. The method enables gears with modified addendum and with any number of teeth to be modeled, so it can be used in CAD systems that require accurate models. Finally, the design process uses finite element modeling as an analysis tool to study the behaviour of components or products before they physically exist, thereby eliminating the need to create physical prototypes and providing a clean engineering design process.Copyright © 2009 by ASME


Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) involves allowing employees to use their own mobile devices to access their organisations' networks. Many organisations are embracing this trend as a means to cut information technology (IT) expenditure, enhance employee satisfaction, etc. However, these and other benefits come at a cost in the form of exposing an organisation to new risks. The aim of this research was to assist organisations to identify the incremental risks they could potentially encounter if they implement a BYOD programme and how they can reduce the risks directly related to BYOD to an acceptable level. An extensive literature review was performed to identify the risks which arise as a result of the adoption of a BYOD programme. COBIT 5 was identified as the most appropriate framework which could be used to develop possible safeguards to mitigate the incremental risks associated with a BYOD programme to an acceptable level. Safeguards were developed to address the risks.


In this paper, a mathematical model and a simulation method for the response time analysis of Local Interconnect Network(LIN) based network systems are proposed. Network-induced delays in a network based control system can vary widely according to the transmission time of message and the overhead time of transmission. Therefore, in order to design a distributed control system using LIN network, a method to predict and verify the timing behavior of LIN protocol is required at the network design phase. Furthermore, a simulation environment based on a timing model of LIN protocol is beneficial to predict the timing behavior of LIN. The model equation is formulated with six timing parameters deduced from timing properties of LIN specification. Additionally, LIN conformance test equations to verify LIN device driver are derived with timing constraints of the parameters. The proposed model equation and simulation method are validated with a result that is measured at real LIN based network system.


A 62-year-old housewife had a metastasis of granular cell ameloblastoma to the third thoracic vertebra. She had suffered at least four local recurrences during the 38-year duration of the right mandibular tumor and was treated by posterior decompression of the spinal cord with instrumentation. Histologically, the granular cells appeared to be of epithelial origin. Ultrastructurally, the granules were identified as lysosomes, including some that were autophagic. Of 45 reported cases of granular cell ameloblastoma, there have been only three cases with pathologically confirmed metastasis. Their characteristics are long duration of the tumor, multiple local recurrences, and predominance in blacks.


We have recently developed an atomistic model of the B-DNA configuration, up to the 30-nm chromatin fiber. This model is intended to be used in Monte Carlo simulations of the DNA-radiation interaction, specifically in conjunction with the Geant4-DNA extension of the Geant4 Monte Carlo toolkit. In this work, 11449 parallel chromatin fibers have been arranged within a cube mimicking a cell nucleus containing about 6.5×109 base pairs. Each atom in the model is represented by a sphere with the corresponding van der Waals radius. Direct single, double and total DNA strand break yields due to the impact of protons and alpha particles with LET ranging from 4.57 to 207.1 keV/μm have been determined. Also, the corresponding site-hit probabilities have been calculated.


List of Tables List of Figures Acknowledgements List of Abbreviations New Introduction Introduction to the First Edition Book One: Expansion Part One: The Hard Road to Political Power 1. The Establishment of Socialism Before 1914 2. From War to War (1914-40) 3. Thwarted Alternatives 4. The War, Resistance and Its Aftermath: The Rise and Fall of West European Communism 1939-48 Book Two: Consolidation Part Two: The Construction of Western Socialism 1945-50 5. The Socialists After 1945 6. Building Social Capitalism 1945-50 7. External Constraints: A Socialist Foreign Policy? Part Three: Toward Revisionism 1950-69 8. The Golden Age of Capitalism 9. Between Neutralism and Atlanticism 10. The Foundations of Revisionism Part Four: The Perplexing Sixties: 'Something in the Air' 11. The Return of the Left 12. The Establishment of a Foreign Policy Consensus Part Five: The Great Contestation 13. The Revival of Working Class Militancy 1960-73 14. The Revival of Ideology and the Student Contestation 15. The Revival of Feminism Book Three: Crisis Part Six: The End of the Great Capitalist Boom 1973-89 16. The Crisis and the Left: An Overview 17. Social Democracy in Small Countries: Austria, Sweden, Holland and Belgium 18. Germany and Britain: SPD and Labour in Power 19. The French Experiment 20. The Failure of Italian Communism 21. The End of Authoritarian Regimes in Western Europe: Portugal, Spain and Greece Part Seven: The Great Crisis of Socialism 22. Workers, Women and Greens 23. The 1980s: Radicalism in its Last Redoubt 24. The New Revisionism Epilogue Notes Bibliography Index


It has been possible to deposit by r.f. sputtering amorphous ferromagnetic thin films for metalloid content from 0 to 40 atom per cent; the properties of these films are comparable to those of bulk ribbons obtained by rapid quenching from the melt. FeSi and FeB sputtered thin films are amorphous for alloys containing respectively 26 and 16 atom per cent metalloid, and films are still magnetic for metalloid content of 40 atom per cent. Their resistivity, 100-200 pD-cm, is characteristic of most amorphous metallic alloys. The magnetostriction of these alloys is very high and positive and decreases with increasing silicon or boron concentration. The as-deposited films show perpendicular anisotropy, but soft magnetic properties have been obtained after a short annealing procedure at temperature below the crystallization temperature.


The study reported here is concerned with hypersonic viscous flows and involves
the development and implementation of an equilibrium air model within Computational
Fluid Dynamics (CFD) codes to account for high temperature effects.
This work is included in a research program to develop accurate and efficient
computational tools for hypersonic re-entry problems.
The flow regimes encountered by spacecraft vehicles during atmospheric reentry
highlight the need to develop new efficient computational techniques to
study chemistry effects. Hypersonic flows are characterized by very strong shock
waves, large pressure and heat flux variations and involve chemical processes
such as vibrational excitation, dissociation and ionization, which cause air to
depart from perfect gas behaviour. As a consequence, the application of CFD
techniques to hypersonic flight vehicles requires methods that compute efficiently
the composition of air over a wide range of temperatures and densities.
An accurate and efficient equilibrium air model has been developed by J.M.
Anderson and is based on the solution of the law of mass action to compute the
chemical properties of the gas mixture. The air model currently implemented
consists of six chemical species (O2, N2, 0, NO, N, Ar) and involves three
chemical reactions. The model does not take account of ionization. For the temperature
range being considered, the assumption of thermal and chemical equilibrium
remains valid and air is assumed to be a reacting mixture of thermally
perfect gases. The equilibrium chemical composition of the mixture is obtained
from the solution of the law of mass action. The thermodynamic properties of
the pure species are obtained by using the least-squares method of curve fitting.
The thermodynamic properties of the gas mixture are calculated from the thermodynamic
species properties and the equilibrium species concentrations. This
physically based model was preferred to more general curve fit techniques since
it provides a more flexible and more suitable model for CFD applications.
An important aspect for solving the equilibrium equations is the choice of
the independent variables. Because the mixture properties are computed on the
basis of a uniform equilibrium temperature for all the component species, one
needs to retain the equilibrium temperature as an independent variable, the second
one usually being density. However, within the time dependent solution of
the flow equations, it is the conserved total energy density which is computed
as an independent variable and input into the state equations. It is therefore
necessary to develop efficient techniques for inverting the general equations of
state to give temperature as a function of energy and density. Due to the complex
formulation of the equation of state for air at high temperatures, there is no
alternative to resorting to an iterative procedure. Since this iterative process can
be quite time consuming, the success of employing such physical model for CFD
applications will reside in the efficiency of this procedure. Different techniques
have been investigated for inverting the equations of state, and the most efficient
is an algorithm based on a Newton-Raphton iteration. The number of iterations
is minimized by computing an accurate guess for the equilibrium temperature.
The present model has already been implemented in an implicit central difference
scheme for application in one-dimensional nozzle flow problem. Here,
the numerical solution of the Navier-Stokes equations is performed by using an
upwind scheme together with a finite volume discretization method. The main
difficulty which is encountered when extending upwind methods to equilibrium
air models is in the formulation of the flux Jacobian matrix, which must take
into account the temperature variations of the ratio of specific heats. The formulation
used here is a generalization of Roe average scheme for equilibrium air
and was first proposed by Vinokur & Montague. A simple explicit time stepping
scheme is used and the boundary conditions treatment is based on the method
ofn characteristics.
In order to illustrate the application of the equilibrium air model within the
CFD environment, a solution of the quasi-one-dimensional Euler equations is
given for a hypersonic expansion nozzle flow. Application is then extended to
two-dimensional hypersonic inviscid and viscous flows over blunt body shapes.
Calculations are performed for both the perfect gas flow and the equilibrium flow
for comparison. The effects of the chemistry are discussed.


We develop a valuation model for venture capital-backed companies and apply it to 135 U.S. unicorns – private companies with reported valuations above $1 billion. We value unicorns using financial terms from legal filings and find reported unicorn post-money valuation average 50% above fair value, with 15 being more than 100% above. Reported valuations assume all shares are as valuable as the most recently issued preferred shares. We calculate values for each share class, which yields lower valuations because most unicorns gave recent investors major protections such as a IPO return guarantees (14%), vetoes over down-IPOs (24%), or seniority to all other investors (32%). Common shares lack all such protections and are 58% overvalued. After adjusting for these valuation-inflating terms, almost one-half (65 out of 135) of unicorns lose their unicorn status.


For each brain–computer interface system, efficiency is a key issue that considers both accuracy and speed. The P300 spellers built upon oddball paradigm are usually less efficient due to the repetitive stimulation of multiple characters for reliable detection. In this paper, based on the online EEG signal, we propose an interactive paradigm for P300 speller to improve its efficiency, primarily focusing within the single characterP300 paradigm. Specifically, after each stimulation, we first evaluate the posterior probability of each character in the stimuli set to be the target. The lowprobability characters are then removed fromthe stimuli set in the subsequent round(s), as character flash continues until the probability of any character surpasses a predefined threshold. Then, the character is selected as the target and data collection for the trial terminates. By reducing stimulus sequence characters, the system efficiency can be substantially improved. The spelling accuracy is insignificantly affected as the characters being removed have low probability to be the target. The online experimental results from a total of eight subjects show that an average practical information transfer rate of 50.26 bits/min (i.e. 9.07 characters/min) has been achieved, with 91% average spelling accuracy rate.


ABSTRACT This article investigates the different types of language classes for Uralic languages in higher education contexts to derive principles in course planning for minority language teaching. As a micro-level example, a foreign language class for South Estonian, aimed at a general audience at LMU Munich, is analysed and informs the discussion of economically efficient and pedagogically effective strategies in curriculum and syllabus design for this target group. The suggested approach uses authentic media in a theme-based, content-based instruction (CBI) classroom with an integrated syllabus of text-based, task-based, and media-based syllabus types, which helps to address the needs and interests of the target group consisting of university students. This enables critical engagement with minority media, development of media literacy, and autonomous student projects on the target language. Additionally, the adoption of a positive stance towards the minority identity is advocated, making the class suitable for heritage learners and allowing for intercultural understanding between students and educators as broader goals for minority language instruction.


Titin provides a molecular blueprint for muscle sarcomere assembly, and sarcomere length can vary according to titin isoform expression. If variations in sarcomere length influence muscle fascicle length, this may provide an advantage for running performance. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate whether the titin (TTN) rs10497520 polymorphism was associated with muscle fascicle length in recreationally active men (RA; n=137) and marathon personal best time in male marathon runners (MR; n=141). Fascicle length of the vastus lateralis was assessed in vivo using B‐mode ultrasonography at 50% of muscle length in RA. All participants provided either a whole blood, saliva or buccal cell sample, from which DNA was isolated and genotyped using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Vastus lateralis fascicle length was 10.4% longer in CC homozygotes, those carrying two copies of the C‐allele, than CT heterozygotes (P=.003) in RA. In the absence of any TT homozygotes, reflective of the low T‐allele frequency within Caucasian populations, it is unclear whether fascicle length for this group would have been smaller still. No differences in genotype frequency between the RA and MR groups were observed (P=.500), although within the MR group, the T‐allele carriers demonstrated marathon personal best times 2 minutes 25 seconds faster than CC homozygotes (P=.020). These results suggest that the T‐allele at rs10497520 in the TTN gene is associated with shorter skeletal muscle fascicle length and conveys an advantage for marathon running performance in habitually trained men.


SUMMARY: The release of proteinase activity from myxamoebae of Dictyostelium discoideum after suspension in non-nutrient buffer has been confirmed. Between 15% and 30% of the total activity against Hide Powder Azure was released, the bulk of this appearing in the buffer within 30 min. Activity against the cathepsin B substrate, α-benzoyl-Dl-arginine 2-naphthylamide, was also released. The release of proteinase activity was more rapid than that of other secreted lysosomal enzymes and was insensitive to cyanide. The extracellular proteinases catalysed both limited and extensive proteolysis. Gel electrophoresis showed similar patterns of released and intracellular proteinases, and their sensitivities to inhibitors were also similar. However, there was evidence for an increased proportion of thiol proteinases in the released enzymes. The results suggest that proteinases were released by a non-secretory process but one possible mechanism, cell lysis, has not been clearly demonstrated. A specific developmental role for extracellular proteinases seems unlikely.


Summary Age, sex, and pregnancy had a marked influence on the trypsin-inhibitor activity in the serum of inbred mice. The inhibitor increased regularly from a few units at birth to several hundred at maturity. Males had about twice as much activity as females, and normal virgin females twice as much as those in the terminal stages of pregnancy. Castration of males decreased the inhibitor level to that of females, and testosterone caused partial restoration of the activity. The serum inhibitor of intact males, however, was unaffected by testosterone, whereas that of females was significantly elevated. Cortisone, hydrocortisone, prednisolone, and prednisone increased the activity 4–5 times in female mice, whereas deoxycorticosterone, dihydro E, and Reichstein9s substances L and S were inert in this respect. Corticosterone was intermediate in activity. Splenectomy or thymectomy affected neither the level of activity in the serum nor the response to cortisone, nor did pancreatectomy affect the response. Liver poisoning by carbon tetrachloride had no influence on the level of the serum trypsin-inhibitor. Regenerating liver following hepatectomy was, however, accompanied by a moderate decrease in inhibitor activity, as was, in one instance, the presence of a transplanted tumor. In most cases, tumors did not significantly affect the level of inhibitor. It is suggested that the serum inhibitor activity be taken into account in investigations concerning the manifold effects and the mechanism of action of corticosteroids and other hormones.


In this paper, multiconductor transmission-line (MTL) theory is utilized in network analysis of shielded electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) structures. Such structures are emerging in the power distribution network of modern electronic systems to provide noise suppression. Many of them can be conveniently modeled using transmission-line circuits. By applying Floquet's theorem to the MTL model of their unit cell, dispersion diagrams and therefore insight to their modal behavior are obtained in a matter of a few seconds. Two sample shielded EBG structures are examined using the MTL approach. Their one-dimensional dispersion diagrams and insertion loss profiles are generated and compared with full-wave simulations.


Abstract. In Livello Bonarelli black shale deposited during Cretaceous Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE-2, ca. 94 Ma), nitrogen isotopic compositions of bulk sediments are mostly in a narrow range from –2.7 to –0.7‰. We also determined molecular distribution and nitrogen isotopic compositions of geoporphyrins extracted from the black shale. The nitrogen isotopic compositions of C32 Ni deoxophylloerythroetioporphyrin (DPEP) and total Ni porphyrins are –3.5 and –3.3‰, respectively, leading us to the estimation that the mean nitrogen isotopic composition of photoautotrophic cells were around +1‰ during the formation of Bonarelli black shale. This value is suggestive of N2-fixation, a dominant process for these photoautotrophs when assimilating nitrogen. Furthermore, Ni-chelated C32 DPEP, derived mainly from chlorophyll a had the highest concentration. Based on this evidence, we conclude that diazotrophic cyanobacteria were major primary producers during that time. Cyanobacteria may be key photoautotrophs during the formation of black shale type sediments intermittently observed throughout the later half of the Earth's history, and hence may have played a crucial role in the evolution of geochemical cycles even in the later half of the Earth's history.


This paper addresses the task of estimating the 6D-pose of a known 3D object from a single RGB-D image. Most modern approaches solve this task in three steps: i) compute local features, ii) generate a pool of pose-hypotheses, iii) select and refine a pose from the pool. This work focuses on the second step. While all existing approaches generate the hypotheses pool via local reasoning, e.g. RANSAC or Hough-Voting, we are the first to show that global reasoning is beneficial at this stage. In particular, we formulate a novel fully-connected Conditional Random Field (CRF) that outputs a very small number of pose-hypotheses. Despite the potential functions of the CRF being non-Gaussian, we give a new, efficient two-step optimization procedure, with some guarantees for optimality. We utilize our global hypotheses generation procedure to produce results that exceed state-of-the-art for the challenging Occluded Object Dataset.


Summary: The major scope of the presented work is the characterization and evaluation of hydrophobicity of novel copolymers of the PS-b-PB1,2 type, modified with perfluorooctanoyl chloride [PS: polystyrene, PB1,2: poly(butadiene) with 100% 1,2-microstructure]. Fluoro atoms in polymers can create hydrophobic surfaces with low surface energy. The fluorinated groups can migrate and possible orient in the outermost surface of the polymeric thin film. Characterization in the modified block copolymer was conducted with carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (13C-NMR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to evaluate the structure. Contact angle measurements were also conducted to verify the hydrophobicity of the fluorinated copolymer. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to depict the structure of the material. The obtained results showed that indeed the fluorinated copolymer exhibits high hydrophobicity (low surface energy material) with significant structural differences from its precursor.


We report the growth of nickel metal films by atomic layer deposition (ALD) employing bis(1,4-di- tert-butyl-1,3-diazadienyl)nickel and tert-butylamine as the precursors. A range of metal and insulating substrates were explored. An initial deposition study was carried out on platinum substrates. Deposition temperatures ranged from 160 to 220 °C. Saturation plots demonstrated self-limited growth for both precursors, with a growth rate of 0.60 Å/cycle. A plot of growth rate versus substrate temperature showed an ALD window from 180 to 195 °C. Crystalline nickel metal was observed by X-ray diffraction for a 60 nm thick film deposited at 180 °C. Films with thicknesses of 18 and 60 nm grown at 180 °C showed low root mean square roughnesses (<2.5% of thicknesses) by atomic force microscopy. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies of 18 and 60 nm thick films deposited on platinum at 180 °C revealed ionizations consistent with nickel metal after sputtering with argon ions. The nickel content in the films was >97%, with low levels of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen. Films deposited on ruthenium substrates displayed lower growth rates than those observed on platinum substrates. On copper substrates, discontinuous island growth was observed at ≤1000 cycles. Film growth was not observed on insulating substrates under any conditions. The new nickel metal ALD procedure gives inherently selective deposition on ruthenium and platinum from 160 to 220 °C.