INTRODUCTION
Low back pain (LBP) is common in warfighters. Noninvasive interventions are necessary to expedite return-to-function. Soft tissue manipulation, for example, massage, is a method used to treat LBP. Instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation (IASTM) uses a rigid device to mobilize the tissue. This study explored the effects of IASTM on pain, function, and biomarkers.

METHODS
Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 44) were randomized to groups (n = 6/grp): (A) cage control; (B) 3 days (3d) postinjury (inj), untreated; (C) 3d inj, < 30-minute post-IASTM treatment; (D) 3d inj, 2 hours (2h) post-IASTM; (E) 14 days (14d) inj, untreated; (F) 14d inj, < 30-minute post-IASTM; and (G) 14d inj, 2h post-IASTM. Researchers induced unilateral LBP in Sprague-Dawley rats using complete Freund's adjuvant injection. Conscious rodents received IASTM for 5 min/session once at 3 days or 3×/week × 2weeks (6× total) over 14 days. Biomarker plasma levels were determined in all groups, while behavioral outcomes were assessed in two groups, D and G, at three time points: before injury, pre-, and post-IASTM treatment. Circulating mesenchymal stem cell levels were assessed using flow cytometry and cytokine plasma levels assayed.

RESULTS
The back pressure pain threshold (PPT) lowered bilaterally at 3 days postinjury (P < .05), suggesting increased pain sensitivity. IASTM treatment lowered PPT more on the injured side (15.8%; P < 0.05). At 14 days, back PPT remained lower but similar side to side. At 3 days, paw PPT increased 34.6% in the contralateral rear limb following treatment (P < .01). Grip strength did not vary significantly. Gait coupling patterns improved significantly (P < .05). Circulating mesenchymal stem cell levels altered significantly postinjury but not with treatment. Neuropeptide Y plasma levels increased significantly at 3 days, 2h post-IASTM (53.2%) (P < .05). Interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha did not vary significantly. At 14 days, regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted decreased significantly <30-minute post-IASTM (96.1%, P < .002), while IL-10 trended upward at 2h (53.1%; P = .86).

CONCLUSIONS
LBP increased pain sensitivity and diminished function. IASTM treatment increased pain sensitization acutely in the back but significantly reduced pain sensitivity in the contralateral rear paw. Findings suggest IASTM may positively influence pain modulation and inflammation while improving gait patterns. Soft tissue manipulation may be beneficial as a conservative treatment option for LBP.


Design: Observational cross-sectional study. The current study aims to yield normative data: i.e., the physiological standard for 30 selected quantitative 3D parameters that accurately capture and describe a full-skeleton, upright-standing attitude. Specific and exclusive consideration was given to three distinct categories: postural, spine morphology and pelvic parameters. To capture such 3D parameters, the authors selected a non-ionising 3D opto-electronic stereo-photogrammetric approach. This required the identification and measurement of 27 body landmarks, each specifically tagged with a skin marker. As subjects for the measurement of these parameters, a cohort of 124 asymptomatic young adult volunteers was recruited. All parameters were identified and measured within this group. Postural and spine morphology data have been compared between genders. In this regard, only five statistically significant differences were found: pelvis width, pelvis torsion, the "lumbar" lordosis angle value, the lumbar curve length, and the T12-L5 anatomically-bound lumbar angle value. The "thoracic" kyphosis mean angle value was the same in both sexes and, even if, derived from skin markers placed on spinous processes it resulted in perfect agreement with the X-ray based literature. As regards lordosis, a direct comparison was more difficult because methods proposed in the literature differ as to the number and position of vertebrae under consideration, and their related angle values. However, when the L1 superior–L5 inferior end plate Cobb angle was considered, these results aligned strongly with the existing literature. Asymmetry was a standard postural-spinal feature for both sexes. Each subject presented some degree of leg length discrepancy (LLD) with μ = 9.37mm. This was associated with four factors: unbalanced posture and/or underfoot loads, spinal curvature in the frontal plane, and pelvis torsion. This led to the additional study of the effect of LLD equalisation influence on upright posture, relying on a sub-sample of 100 subjects (51 males, 49 females). As a result of the equalisation, about 82% of this sub-sample showed improvement in standing posture, mainly in the frontal plane; while in the sagittal plane less than 1/3 of the sub-sample showed evidence of change in spinal angles. A significant variation was found in relation to pelvis torsion: 46% of subjects showed improvement, 49% worsening. The method described in study presents several advantages: non-invasive aspect; relatively short time for a complete postural evaluation with many clinically useful 3D and 2D anatomical/biomechanical/clinical parameters; analysis of real neutral unconstrained upright standing posture.


CBP (CREB-binding protein) was originally characterized as a transcriptional coactivator of CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein) which is implicated in many processes including the formation of long-term memory. CBP itself is regulated by nuclear Ca2+ and Ca2+/Calmodulin kinase IV, suggesting a crucial role in synaptic plasticity. Mutations in human CBP gene are associated with the Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RTS) characterized by mental retardation and patterning abnormalities. These features suggest that CBP plays a central role in cAMP-mediated gene expression, which in turn is implicated in the formation of long-term memory. The expression patterns of CBP and its homologue p300 were analyzed. Both are expressed in most of forebrain areas, with particularly high expression in the hippocampus. Parts of the mouse CBP gene were characterized. Six exons encode the CREB-binding domain (CBD). Two gene targeting experiments were performed to generate mouse lines with mutations in the CBP gene. The first was a deletion of the CBD exon 2, resulting in a frameshift and, thus, a truncated CBP protein (CBPstop523). In the second experiment, a point mutation was aimed to be introduced in the CBD exon 5 (CBPTyr658Ala). After germline transmission, three mouse lines were obtained from CBPstop523 allele: CBD2+/-, a general deletion of the CBD exon 2; CBD2.floxed, which will be crossed with different Cre mouse lines for tissue-specific mutants; and CBD2.floxed.neo, which might be a hypomorphic allele due to the Neo cassette. For the construct CBPTyr658Ala none of the chimeras gave germline transmission, as apparently the splicing of the inverted allele was incorrect, possibly leading to strong reduction of vitality. Meantime, six CBP mutants were generated to elucidate functional domains of CBP in vitro: a deletion mutation CBPACBD2-5; CBPllOOaa, which was reported in mutant mice displaying RTS-like phenotypes; and a point mutation CBP658Ala, which was shown to be critical for interaction with phospho-CREB. The other three mutants retain different sizes of truncated N-terminal CBP and similar proteins were observed in RTS. Both CBP658Ala and CBPACBD2-5 interferred with the cAMP pathway, but not with nuclear receptor-mediated functions. RTS mutants showed strong inhibitory effects on the cAMP pathway.


Many concerns have been expressed that students' basic mathematical skills have deteriorated during the 1990s and there has been disquiet that current A-level grading does not distinguish adequately between the more able students. This study reports the author's experiences of teaching maths to large classes of first-year engineering students and aims to enhance understanding of levels of mathematical competence in more recent years. Over the last four years, the classes have consisted of a very large proportion of highly qualified students – about 91% of them had at least grade B in A-level Mathematics. With a small group of students having followed a non-traditional route to university (no A-level maths) and another group having benefitted through taking A-level Further Mathematics at school, the classes have contained a very wide range of mathematical backgrounds. Despite the introductory maths course at university involving mainly repetition of A-level material, students' marks were spread over a very wide range – for example, A-level Mathematics grade B students have scored across the range 16 – 97%. Analytical integration is the topic which produced the largest variation in performance across the class but, in contrast, the A-level students generally performed well in differentiation. Initial analysis suggests some stability in recent years in the mathematical proficiency of students with a particular A-level Mathematics grade. Allowing choice of applied maths modules as part of the A-level maths qualification increases the variety of students' mathematical backgrounds and their selection from mechanics, statistics or decision maths is not clear from the final qualification.


The shortest path problem is one of the most classical problem in combinatorial optimization problem which, given an edge-weighted graph and two vertices, asks to find a path between the two vertices of the minimum length. In this thesis, we consider a generalization of the shortest path problem in which the edge length is time-variable, which we call the time-dependent shortest path problem. This kind of problems has many applications in the fields of navigation systems and others. Since the first algorithm was proposed by Cooke and Halsey in 1966, many studies have been done for this problem. Currently the fastest algorithm is due to Dreyfus and others (1969–1990) who proposed a straightforward generalization of the famous Dijkstra algorithm that is originally developed for the classical shortest path problem. In this thesis, we give an even faster algorithm at a small amount of extra preprocessing cost. The proposed algorithm is based on the ALT algorithm proposed by Goldberg and Harrelson (2005) for the shortest path problem, in which the main idea is to use pre-calculated landmarks in determining the interim distance labels for vertices. Experimental results show our algorithms is several times faster than the generalized Dijkstra algorithm.


This report presents simulations and measurements of multimode dynamics in the twin-stripe laser resulting from complicated gain competition effects. The theory is based on a novel multi-longitudinal rate equations model, while accounting for both coherent and incoherent lateral coupling between the lasers. The experiments allowed measurements of RIN and optical power spectra for each laser separately as functions of the independently varied stripe currents and yielded sufficient data that were used to extract parameter values for the simulations. On the basis of the experimental data and the results of simulations it can be concluded that the operation predominantly takes place on several longitudinal modes in both lasers and that the lateral coupling is of a global nature, coupling between the two combs of longitudinal modes. This introduces highly complex inter and intra-stripe mode-competition effects resulting in various types of dynamics that adequately explains the complicated bifurcation structure observed in thesse devices when the current i varied.


With the rapid development of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for flexible wearable devices and electronic skins, challenges have gradually emerged related to the electrification surface, such as pollutant contamination and sophisticated surface adaptability. Hence, we report a simple spraying method to produce a shape-adaptive photocatalytic (SAP) triboelectric material with both self-cleaning and shape-adaptive functions. By spraying the polyvinyl alcohol solution with TiO2 photocatalysts and pre-drying cyclic, the SAP film can be adapted to a varied and intricate substrate. The highest transferred charge density of the SAP film reaches 197.5 μC/m2, when it contacts with the PTFE film. At the same time, it can degrade 74.4% of simulated pollutants under sunlight illumination, and 97% of the transferred charge density can be maintained after the degradation process, indicating good self-cleaning function and stable electrical output. Moreover, the spraying method of this allows it to have shape-adaptive functions. Accordingly, the SAP film can be deposited on the rectangular pyramid and hemispherical surface for fabricating TENGs with special shapes. This low-cost and simple spraying method further promotes the commercialized application of TENGs in the field of wearable devices and skin sensors.


The protective effect of most currently available vaccines is dependent on high-affinity antibodies and long lived B cell memory, which develop within organized structures of secondary lymphoid organs called germinal centers (GCs). GC formation is supported by T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, a subset of CD4+ T cells that develop in parallel to other effector T cells and specifically localizes to B cell follicles. The aim for the work presented in this thesis was to define how the GC response and Tfh cell differentiation are regulated by innate effectors, such as conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) and type I interferons (IFNs), in response to protein immunization adjuvanted by the dsRNA-analogue poly(I:C). In paper I, we show that Tfh cells and GC B cell responses of the IgG1 isotype can develop normally in the absence of cDCs when a sufficient amount of antigen, allowing initial T cell priming, is provided. In contrast, the concurrent Th1 cell differentiation is impaired together with a selective loss of IgG2c production. We also find that B cells, monocytes and possibly plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) redundantly can prime CD4+ T cells in the absence of cDCs, and thereby support early expression of the Tfh cell-associated chemokine receptor CXCR5. In paper II we find that type I IFNs predominantly promote IgG2c+ GC B cell differentiation and in this context function through both B cell intrinsic and extrinsic signaling. While we provide evidence for that direct IFN-γ signaling in B cells controls switching to IgG2c, our results indicate that type I IFNs regulate IgG2c-associated GC responses beyond isotype switching, as the magnitude of the GC B cell response is reduced when type I IFNs, but not when IFN-γ, are absent. In contrast to IgG2c, switching to IgG1 is unaffected by type I IFN deficiency, although the overall magnitude and quality of the IgG1 response also is affected when type I IFN signaling is abrogated. Additionally, the formation of B cell memory appears to be impaired in the absence of type I IFNs. In paper III, we demonstrate how clonal competition selectively affects Tfh cell differentiation, GC responses and generation of IgG1+ GC B cells, while the generation of IgG2c+ GC B cells appears to be less affected. Taken together, the work included in this thesis increase our understanding of how GC B cell responses and Tfh cell development are regulated, and furthermore, it suggests that switching to IgG1 and IgG2c associated GC B cell fate commitment may be differentially dependent on Tfh cells. (Less)


Ms MC, aged 22 years, has come to ask my advice regarding the discontinuation of warfarin after an episode of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) 3 months ago. She is a hockey player and keen to cease her anticoagulant medication, but is concerned about the recurrence of DVT.


Slotted-waveguide antenna arrays find wide applications in communication and radar systems that require narrow beam or shaped-beam radiation patterns, especially when high power, light weight, and limited scanned areas are priorities. Placement of slots in waveguide plays a crucial role for shaping side lobes with desired values. An iterative procedure for calculating the placements of slot positions of slotted-waveguide array, which consists of an arbitrary number of slots, is presented in this paper. The offsets of the slots' positions with respect to the waveguide centerline, which determine the side lobe level, were then obtained from well-known mathematical distributions like Chebyshev, Taylor, Binomial are presented. And the results are simulated in HFSS software.


Proof test results were analyzed and compared with a proposed life cycle curve or hazard function and the limit of useful life. Relief valve proof testing procedures, statistical modeling, data collection processes, and time-in-service trends are presented. The resulting analysis of test data allows for the estimation of a probability of failure on demand (PFD). Extending maintenance intervals to the limit of useful life as well as methodologies and practices for improving relief valve performance and reliability are discussed. A generic cost-benefit analysis and an expected life cycle cost reduction concludes that $90 million maintenance dollars might be avoided for a population of 3000 valves over 20 years.


Background: Sertoli cells are one of the major cell types in testes that provide nutrition and structural support for germ cell development. Cytokeratin 18 protein is consistently expressed in immature Sertoli cells of prepubertal seminiferous tubules, but is completely absent in normal, mature seminiferous tubules.

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the possible protective role of pomegranate molasses. Through immunohistochemical expression of cytokeratin 18 in the rat sertoli cells of prepubertal age after the administration of aluminum hydroxide.

Materials and methods: Sixty male albino rats of prepubertal age were divided into three equal groups: (control group); (Aluminum hydroxide treated group) received oral aluminum hydroxide at a dose of 30 mg/kg b. wt/day; (protected group) received both aluminum hydroxide (at the same previous dose) and pomegranate molesses in a dose of 0.5 ml (PM) plus 0.5 ml distilled water orally. At the end of the experiment (8 weeks), all animals were sacrificed and their testes were excised. Paraffin sections were prepared for examing under the light microscope, used histomorphological stain and immunohistochemical DAB stain of Cytockeratin protein 18 by aviden biotin complex protocol.

Results: After the administration of aluminum hydroxide (AD), some seminiferous tubules had disturbed basal lamina and disorganized germinal epithelium. The spermatogenic cells decreased in number with undifferentiated hyperprolifirating germ cells. The concomitant administration of pomegranate molasses with aluminum hydroxide showed alleviation in histopathological changes induced by aluminum hydroxide in the structures of testis. In addition, the increased number of sertoli cells was noticed in grouped treated with AD and decreased in group treated with concomitant administration of PM.

Conclusion: The present study showed that exposure to aluminum hydroxide resulted in marked degenerative effects on the rats' testis, but they were improved with the concomitant administration of PM, as well as, the immunohistochemical detection of cytokeratin 18 in Sertoli cells may be provided a sensitive marker for immature or damaged testes.


Numerous technological advances in medicine have occurred over the last 3 decades. These have made tremendous impact on the way we care for patients, make diagnosis, prioritize our management steps and prognosticate. They made us focus more and more on the details of an apparently single disease entity in the past to split this into many subtypes. So much so that sometimes we find it extremely complex to put a coherent plan of care for a particular patient without waiting for the results of all components to fit together.


New high performance optical systems require highly durable, broadband window materials in larger sizes than are currently available. To meet this need, a low cost edgebonding process was developed for producing large area sapphire windows from smaller, melt-grown blanks. The method uses a polycrystalline alumina interlayer to promote diffusion and single crystal conversion at the interface between two sapphire substrates and produce high strength bonds. The goal of the current research effort is to determine the optimal alumina composition for maximum bond strength. Polycrystalline alumina fillets containing various chemical additives were prepared by tape casting for use in bonding trials. Oriented sapphire blanks were edge bonded in a furnace with special fixtures to accurately align and apply a load to the components during heat treatment. This approach is consistent with and builds upon the methods used in the previous edge-bonding studies. Flexure strength of the bonded samples, as compared to monolithic sapphire, was used as the performance metric. Additional bonding runs were carried out using the highest performing fillet composition in order to provide a sufficient number of specimens to conduct a Weibull analysis of the failure probability of the bonded material as a function of applied stress. A high purity alumina composition containing 3 wt.% SiO2, 0.05 wt.% MgO, and 0.05 wt.% Ti, produced the highest strength bonds. This composition yielded an average fracture strength of 255 MPa (37 kpsi), a Weibull modulus of 8.2, and a characteristic


Although early acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) prevention programs produced dramatic reductions in unsafe sexual practices on the part of homosexual men, there is evidence that new behaviors have not been maintained consistently. Various cohort studies have related risky sex relapse to low self-efficacy, emotional depression, and relationship issues. Unprotected sex is widely perceived as more pleasurable than condom use and is likely to be practiced by gay men concerned with their partner's presumed preferences. This finding suggests a need to identify ways of increasing the pleasure associated with safe sex by eroticizing condom use. Approaches that include erotic descriptions of safe sex (e.g., pamphlets with explicit photographs, mass media campaigns that use sexually explicit language, and attractively packaged condoms) have been found to increase behavioral risk reduction practices. All interventions aimed at preventing risky sex relapse should be empirically based and delivered in a fashion acceptable to the homosexual community.


Behavioural studies have consistently found stronger vection responses for oscillating, compared to smooth/constant, patterns of radial flow (the simulated viewpoint oscillation advantage for vection). Traditional accounts predict that simulated viewpoint oscillation should impair vection by increasing visual–vestibular conflicts in stationary observers (as this visual oscillation simulates self-accelerations that should strongly stimulate the vestibular apparatus). However, support for increased vestibular activity during accelerating vection has been mixed in the brain imaging literature. This fMRI study examined BOLD activity in visual (cingulate sulcus visual area — CSv; medial temporal complex — MT+; V6; precuneus motion area — PcM) and vestibular regions (parieto-insular vestibular cortex — PIVC/posterior insular cortex — PIC; ventral intraparietal region — VIP) when stationary observers were exposed to vection-inducing optic flow (i.e., globally coherent oscillating and smooth self-motion displays) as well as two suitable control displays. In line with earlier studies in which no vection occurred, CSv and PIVC/PIC both showed significantly increased BOLD activity during oscillating global motion compared to the other motion conditions (although this effect was found for fewer subjects in PIVC/PIC). The increase in BOLD activity in PIVC/PIC during prolonged exposure to the oscillating (compared to smooth) patterns of global optical flow appears consistent with vestibular facilitation.


OBJECTIVE
To analyse 3 cases of parvovirus B19 infection in a pregnant woman followed by transplacental transmission to the fetus.

DESIGN
A reprospective study.

SETTING
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Olomouc.

METHOD
Parvovirus B19 vertical transmission from a pregnant woman to the fetus was diagnosed in 3 cases. Serologic testing of IgG and IgM antibodies against parvovirus B19, cytological bone marrow examination and parvovirus B19 DNA analysis by PCR methods were performed. The fetal anemia was predicted by measurements of peak systolic velocities in the middle cerebral artery (MCA-PSV).

RESULTS
There were three pregnancies in all (1st - single, 2nd and 3rd - dizygotic twins). In the 1st and 2nd pregnancy the diagnosis of parvovirus B19 infection was set on the basis of erythroblastopenia diagnosed in the neonatal period or early infancy. In the 2nd pregnancy (dizygotic twins) intrauterine death of one twin occured. In the 3rd case (dizygotic twins) the diagnosis was already set in the 20th week of pregnancy. Subsequently the fetal anemia was predicted by doppler examination. The fetuses did not require invasive intrauterine intervention and mild anemia was diagnosed after delivery. Progressive intrauterine growth retardation of one twin was observed. Neither cardiomegaly nor fetal hydrops did not occur. All mothers were asymptomatic during the whole pregnancy.

CONCLUSION
Parvovirus B19 infection should be excluded in all cases of nonimmune fetal hydrops, severe fetal anemia, cardiomegaly, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and chronic erythroblastopenia diagnosed in the neonatal period or early infancy. The presence of IgM and IgG antibodies against parvovirus B19 is highly specific but their negativity is insufficient for the exclusion of a parvovirus B19 infection. Viral DNA testing by PCR method is the only reliable method available.


In an attempt to find central selective acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors, 3-[1-(phenylmethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-1-(2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-1- benzazepin-8-yl)-1-propanones 9 and their analogs were designed on the basis of our working hypothesis of the enzyme's active site. These compounds were prepared by regioselective Friedel-Crafts acylation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-1-benzazepines and related nitrogen heterocycles as a key step. Most compounds showed potent inhibitory activities with IC50s in the 10-300 nM range. In order to estimate their central selectivities, we examined their effects on the apomorphine-induced circling behavior in rats with unilateral striatal lesions. Among compounds with potent AChE inhibition, 3-[1-(phenylmethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-1-(2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-1- benzazepin-8-yl)-1-propanone fumarate (9a, TAK-147) (IC50 of AChE inhibition = 97.7 nM) inhibited the circling behavior at 3 mg/kg po, in which it had no significant effect on peripheral cholinergic effects. This demonstrates that 9a has favorable central selectivity. Furthermore, 9a significantly ameliorated diazepam-induced passive avoidance deficit at 1 mg/kg po. The benzazepine derivative 9a was selected as a candidate for clinical evaluation.


Among all the religions in Nigeria, Islam and Christianity record large numbers of adherents and the country's politics is almost based on the two religious divides. This paper examines two religious bodies; the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) established to regulate the activities of Muslims and Christians respectively in the country. The works finds out that both religious bodies take active part in state politics and have struggled for self-relevance and acknowledgement whenever issues of national concerns arise. The struggle began in the 1970s and 1980s when Muslims advanced for the incorporation of the Islamic law into the Nigerian constitution on the ground that the nation has since her inception been governed by Christian law in the guise of British constitution. The result has been religious tension and violence. The work therefore recommends collaboration of the two religious bodies following their aims and objectives to assist the government in fostering peace, progress and development of the country.


A field study on the competion and on the dynamics of occupation of nodulation sites by naturalized and seed inoculated strains of Bradyrhizobium japonicum was conducted on a Dark Red Latosol. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks, with eight replications of the following treatments: A) control without inoculation; B) control without inoculation, with nitrogen fertilizer; C) inoculation with about 107 rhizobia/g (8g/kg of seed); D) inoculation with about 1010 rhizobia/g (8g/kg of seed). The inoculant was prepared with the strains SMS-314 (= SEMIA-587) and SMS-463 (=SEMIA-5019 = 29W), officially recommended for inoculant production. The identification of the strains which formed nodules was made in samples collected at 10, 42 and 70 days after seed germination. The grains were harvested to evaluate production and nitrogen content. Sorological typification was made with antiserum prepared from antigens constituted by B. japonicum strains SEMIA-587, SEMIA-5019 and SEMIA-5052 (=USDA-6), using the immunodot method. The characterization of the strains in nodules revealed a small increase (6,2 to 8,7%) in the occurrence of nodules formed by the recommended strains for the three sampling dates. There was an expressive participation of the strain 5052 (serogroup USDA-6) in the formation of the nodules. It was also observed that the naturalized strains may contribute differently to the formation of the nodules during the cycle, depending on the time of sampling.


We investigate the continuity of ()-derivations on B(X) or -algebras. We give some sufficient conditions on which ()-derivations on B(X) are continuous and show that each ()-derivation from a unital -algebra into its a Banach module is continuous when and are continuous at zero. As an application, we also study the ultraweak continuity of ()-derivations on von Neumann algebras.


The pro-anorexia movement (which advocates eating disordered practices as a legitimate lifestyle and identity choice over the internet) has provoked intense public furor since it emerged in the late 1990s. This concern hinges on the status of anorexia as a disease, situating pro-anorexic discourse as not only diseased but dangerous. A critical feminist and Foucauldian reading of this material analyzes the complex negotiations of medical surveillance undertaken by participants in the movement. Disrupting medical knowledge and usurping the medical gaze, participants produce a virtual clinical space that elides medical authority over anorexia and individual anorexic bodies. By intervening in the pattern of medical gaze-diagnosis-treatment in order to teach individuals how to perform a 'normal' body, pro-anorexic discourse exposes both the instability of diagnostic criteria and the limits of medical surveillance.


The costs and benefits of policies designed to regulate the use of production contracts will depend in part on the impact of these contracts on farm productivity. In this paper we measure the impact of contracting on 1) partial and total factor productivity and 2) the production technology for 479 US hog operations. A sample selection model accounts for the fact that unobservable variables may be correlated with both the decision to contract and farm productivity. Results also identify determinants of farmers' decisions to contract and factors influencing farm productivity.


The general structure of the paper is the following: † We use the formalism of the Recursive Modelling Method for the purpose of decision theoretic calculations. The advantage of Recursive Modelling Method, when used for expected utility calculation, is that it is able to succinctly represent the content of the agents, including its preferences, abilities, and beliefs about the physical world, as well as the agents beliefs about the other agents, their preferences and abilities, their beliefs about the world and about other agents, their beliefs about others beliefs, and so on. † We consider examples of various types of communicative acts. The results address the communicative acts that agents can use to share information about their environment (I call these modelling agents), acts used to express the current intention of the user (intentional messages), and acknowledging messages. We then present results on the agreement between the method of message selection and messages that humans choose, and show an experimental validation of our framework in a simulated multi-agent environment.


Mutation is a change of position the post, a place or employment inside an organization or company that can occur over my own request or  request of the company. But there were several problems in the service of mutation employees placement of them is the position of civil servants is in accordance with capacity so that may affect employee motivation work and also the effectiveness of our performance on the company. The purpose of this research is to find satisfaction service employees whether a mutation is according to competence of employees. Methods used in this research is fuzzy service quality (servqual). The results of the analysis method servqual consisting of 52 variables with 5 dimensions that the variable that need undergoing repair namely empathy (emphaty), physical evidence (tangible) and dependability (reliability). The highest the gap shown in dimension sensibility (responsivess) namely 0,034 there is a positive influence and the lowest gap shown in dimension dependability (reliability) namely -0,054 is the negative to the quality of services and satisfaction employees to mutation service employees.


Energy security, or the access to energy at an affordable price, is one of the main problems that humanity faces today and the European Union (EU) has to rely on energy-rich countries for its energy needs. This paper offers four ways in which the EU may enhance its energy security through the international trading system.First, since the regulation of energy in international law is fragmented and largely incoherent, it is essential to understand the overall trade in energy system and determine its net effect in terms of EU energy security.Second, all forms of energy should be subject to the same rules. Energy may become part of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agenda in the near future. Given that current WTO rules are far from addressing all the needs of energy trade today, is it necessary to have a WTO Agreement on trade in energy? If so, can and should the Energy Charter Treaty be used as a model? Moreover, now that Russia has joined the WTO and that energy is one of its greatest assets in economic terms, would this be the right time to include energy trade as part of the WTO Agreements? Those energy-rich Middle Eastern countries that are not yet WTO Members but wish to become WTO Members will most likely follow Russia. These Middle Eastern countries should prioritize the conclusion of negotiations to enter the WTO in order to integrate fully into the global trading system and protect their growing interests on world markets. WTO membership will certainly help eliminate any discrimination against them in their trade.Third, since the EU is energy-dependent, it is necessary to propose models for enhanced governance of energy trade to promote energy security. The aim is to find ways so that this can be encouraged normatively. The expansion of the Energy Charter's membership to countries in the Middle East and North Africa and to the Economic Community of West African States may be an avenue to enhance EU energy security through the creation of an infrastructure that will enhance international, long-distance trade in energy.Fourth, the aim of the international community is to decarbonize the economy. With renewables, international trade in energy is likely to increase. In turn, the trading system can be a major vehicle towards moving away from fossil fuels to renewable energy. To this end, it can provide fair competition, economies of scale and knowledge transfer. Very little research has been conducted on the impact of preferential trade agreements (PTAs) in addressing climate change mitigation and energy security. It is thus worth exploring the potential of incorporating chapters addressing climate change mitigation and promoting renewable energy within PTAs, for which the EU could make use of its vast network of PTAs. There could well be tangible ways in which the EU can, through its network of PTAs, move towards greater energy independence as renewable energy becomes increasingly economically viable.


As reported, the extended Kalman Filter based Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) algorithm has two serious drawbacks, namely the linear approximation of non-linear functions and the calculation of Jacobian matrices. These can introduce estimation error and induce a great ambiguity for data association. For overcoming these drawbacks, this paper presents an improved SLAM solution, based on the Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) with conditional iterations (UiSLAM). Since the UKF can improve the performance of filters, it can be used to overcome the drawbacks of the previous frameworks. When the loop is closed, the condition to perform iterated update is satisfied. Then the iterative update procedure employed in the iterated extended Kalman Filter (IEKF) is implemented. This approach combines the virtues of IEKF and UKF for solving the SLAM problems and improves accuracy of the state estimation. Both the simulation and experimental results are proposed to illustrate the superiority of the UiSLAM algorithm over previous approaches.


This study develops a multidimensional framework using data envelopment analysis (DEA) as a benchmarking tool to assess the performance of the commercial banks in India. Using the DEA approach, this study compares the relative performance of 35 banks against one another with 8 variables as the benchmark parameters. This study finds that most of the banks are consistently performing well over a period from 2005 to 2009. The study also shows the areas in which inefficient banks are lagging behind and how they can improve their performance to bring them at par with the efficient commercial banks.


The optical absorption and electron spin resonance spectra of vanadyl-and copper-doped rubidium cadmium sulphate hexahydrate are investigated at room and liquid nitrogen temperatures. From the analysis, the spectra are ascribed C4v site symmetry in the case of VO2+ ions and D2h site symmetry in the case of Cu2+ ions.


INTRODUCTION: Meningiomas are the most common benign intracranial tumors. They present with a number of cytological variants, most of which have no prognostic or clinical significance. One exceedingly rare variant is a meningioma with rhabdoid features, accounting for 2-3% of all meningiomas. This variant is also derived from meningoepithelial cells, however it is classified as WHO grade III owing to rapid growth, invasion of brain tissue and frequent recurrence. We describe a meningioma with rhabdoid features classified as WHO grade II as a result of uncharacteristically reduced malignant potential on cytology. To our knowledge there are three prior reported cases, two of which are intracranial of WHO Grade II meningioma with rhabdoid features. CASE: A 56-year-old male presented with abulia and slowed speech for several days. Physical exam of the patient was normal. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed a focal heterogeneously enhancing extra-axial lesion within the left perisylvian region with mass effect on the left lateral ventricle. The patient underwent craniotomy for tumor resection. The histological examination revealed meningioma with extensive rhabdoid features (greater than 50%). Cytology showed eccentric nuclei with abundant globoid eosinophilic cytoplasm consistent with rhabdoid features, however mitotic activity was relatively low with only 4 mitoses per 10 HPF. The patient is presently 4-months post-operation with resolution of his presenting symptoms and without evidence of recurrence. CONCLUSION: Meningiomas with rhabdoid features are known to be highly malignant with high recurrence rates, yet the tumor described by these authors exhibits reduced mitotic activity uncharacteristic of this tumor type. Based on our follow-up, there is currently no recurrence. We present a case of a rhabdoid meningioma with less aggressive features consistent with WHO II. As such, low-grade rhabdoid meningiomas should be considered as an exceedingly rare etiology, with unknown diagnostic and prognostic significance.


This paper describes issues in designing a practical walkthrough system for indoor
environments. We propose several new rendering speedup techniques implemented in our
walkthrough system. Tests have been carried out to benchmark the speedup brought about by
different techniques. One of these techniques, called dynamic visibility, which is an extended
view frustum algorithm with object space information integrated. It proves to be more
efficient than existing standard visibility preprocessing methods without using pre-computed
data.


We present in this paper how to construct a 4-stage Runge-Kutta method when the spatial approximation is a Muscl-type upwind scheme for the solution of the two-dimensional Euler equations. A theorical study is first conducted in the one-dimensional linear case, and then extended to the two-dimensional case where the equations are solved by multigrid techniques over unstructured finite element meshes. A few numerical experiments are presented, demonstrating the validity of the theoretical results.


This paper aims to reveal the nature of religious attitudes, factors that affect the attitude of religious, characteristics and development, the components and forms and how to develop the attitude of religious learners. The method used is library research and analyzed by reflective thinking. Based on the findings can be seen that the attitude of religious learners basically an internal state that exists in the learners that formed through interaction with the environment. The characteristics and development of the religious attitudes of each learner vary according to the stages of development. These differences can be seen from the cognitive, affective and conative aspects. Establishment and development of a stance must begin early and be done according to their cognitive characteristics, emotions and level of consciousness. There are two ways that can be done to grow and develop the attitude of religious learners, namely: First, the internalization of Islamic values. Internalization of Islamic values can be done by giving exemplary, suggestive and correction and social impulse. Second, creating a religious environment in the family, school and community.


We propose an ISO model for coordinating transmission expansion planning with competitive generation capacity planning in electricity markets. The purpose of the model is a holistic simulation of generation and transmission capacity expansion in the market environment. The solution represents an iterative process for simulating the interactions among GENCOs, TRANSCOs, and the ISO, which might be terminated by the ISO based on a pre-specified stopping criterion. The proposed model adopts a joint energy and transmission auction market and a capacity mechanism. The joint auction market enables competition to occur among generation and transmission resources. The capacity mechanism offers incentives for market participant investments that reflect the locational values of additional capacity. Transmission capacity expansion decisions are made by merchant transmission lines that recover their capacity investments through transmission marginal pricing and capacity payments. Transmission network security is reflected in the proposed competitive resource planning model. The examples illustrate a coordinated planning of generation and transmission in restructured power systems.


Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to redefine how farming occurs. Throughout history examples of technological advances have shown that less labour has been required on a farm while at the same time increasing the output of food production. However, an interesting observation is that as technology has improved the farming process and replaced workers, it has opened a new avenue known as diversification. This paper focuses specifically on the impact that AI will have on the future of farming in the European sector. The literature brings to light common trends that technological innovations have always decreased the number of workers required in the farming process while at the same time maximising efficiency. AI will also follow the same trend, however, instead of eliminating workers in the farming process soon, the present observations show that farmers will still require workers to work alongside AI. The reason for increased investments in AI is due to research data showing a decline in population growth in Europe and the struggling profitability of farmers. Thereby analysts believe that a labour shortage will occur, and industries will struggle to fill those skills requirements. A qualitative summary was done on artificial intelligence technologies' development impact on the labour of the agricultural sector of Europe.


Triterpenoids are considered to be the major pharmaceutical active compounds found in the macrofungus Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum). Extraction conditions of triterpenoids from the Vietnamese red G. lucidum were optimized by response surface methodology using ultrasound –assisted extraction (UAE) method. A Box – Behnken experimental design was used to determine the simultaneous influences of three independent variables, namely solvent-to-material ratio, extraction time, and ultrasonic power on the yield of triterpenoids. The highest yield of triterpenoids obtained under optimum conditions including extraction time of 55 min, ultrasonic power of 480 W, solvent-to-material ratio of 27:1 mL/g was 9.5768 ± 0.228 mg/g according to ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) analysis. Besides, the hot water extraction method was carried out in order to compare with UAE in terms of the yield of triterpenoids. The results of anticancer evaluation of the extract obtained indicated that with the half-maximal inhibitory concentration value of 67.25 ± 0.82 µg/mL on the human Hep-G2 liver cancer cell lines, triterpenoids extracted from G. lucidum could be regarded as a potential agent for medicinal treatment.


Two kinds of heavy-alloying β-type TiAl-based alloys Ti_44Al_6Nb_1.0Cr_2.0V (A1) and Ti_44Al_6Nb_1.0Cr_2.0V_0.15Y_0.1B (A2) are newly designed. They are prepared by vacuum consumable melting (VCM) and cold crucible directional solidification (CCDS). Via the theoretical analysis and tentative experiment, five alternative heat treatment (HT) schedules are proposed and studied that the corresponding microstructure and room temperature (RT) tensile property are investigated, and finally the optimized HT schedules are acquired. After HT5 (heat preservation in β phase region and at 1290 °C, and then ladder cooling), A2 alloy cast by VCM exhibits a better tensile property with average elongation of 1.20%. For the two CCDS ingots , after HT3 ( mainly annealing at 1280 °C), B2 phase and (B2 + γ) blocky morphology are reduced, the columnar grains and small angle lamellas are reserved, and the tensile property also has a moderate improvement.


The 'oxidation theory' of atherosclerosis proposes that oxidation of low density lipoprotein (LDL) contributes to atherogenesis. Although the precise mechanisms of in vivo oxidation are widely unknown, increasing evidence suggests that myeloperoxidase (MPO, EC 188.8.131.52), a protein secreted by activated phagocytes, generates modified/oxidized (lipo)proteins via intermediate formation of hypochlorous acid (HOCl). In vitro generation of HOCl transforms lipoproteins into high uptake forms for macrophages giving rise to cholesterol-engorged foam cells. To identify HOCl-modified-epitopes in human plaque tissues we have raised monoclonal antibodies (directed against human HOCl-modified LDL) that do not cross-react with other LDL modifications, i.e. peroxynitrite-LDL, hemin-LDL, Cu2+-oxidized LDL, 4-hydroxynonenal-LDL, malondialdehyde-LDL, glycated-LDL, and acetylated-LDL. The antibodies recognized a specific epitope present on various proteins after treatment with OCl- added as reagent or generated by the MPO/H2O2/halide system. Immunohistochemical studies revealed pronounced staining for HOCl-modified-epitopes in fibroatheroma (type V) and complicated (type VI) lesions, while no staining was observed in aortae of lesion-prone location (type I). HOCl-oxidation-specific epitopes are detected in cells in the majority of atherosclerotic plaques but not in control segments. Staining was shown to be inside and outside monocytes/macrophages, endothelial cells, as well as in the extracellular matrix. A similar staining pattern using immunohistochemistry could be obtained for MPO. The colocalization of immunoreactive MPO and HOCl-modified-epitopes in serial sections of human atheroma (type IV), fibroatheroma (type V) and complicated (type VI) lesions provides further convincing evidence for MPO/H2O2/halide system-mediated oxidation of (lipo)proteins under in vivo conditions. We propose that MPO could act as an important link between the development of atherosclerotic plaque in the artery wall and chronic inflammatory events.


The Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility (HRIBF) is a first generation national user facility for nuclear physics and nuclear astrophysics research with radioactive ion beams (RIBs). The reconfiguration, construction, and equipment commissioning phases have been completed and the beam development program is in progress. In this article, descriptions of the facility and newly implemented experimental equipment for use in the nuclear and astrophysics programs will be given and an outline of the initial experimental program will be presented. Special target ion source related problems, endemic to the production of specific short lived RIBs will be discussed. In addition, plans, which involve either a 200 MeV or a 1 GeV proton linac driver for a second generation ISOL facility, will be presented.


Energy management in home is gaining more attention as people try to use sustainable energy sources. This attempt to improve the use of infrastructure for energy production and distribution is expected to include smart grid systems. The incorporation of Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled smart devices into an ecosystem designed for maximum energy efficiency has been proposed for Smart Home Energy Management Systems (SHEMS). Smart homes are expensive, but smart plugs can change normal home devices relatively smart. This paper proposes a prototype design for a SHEMS it monitors and controls the energy consumption of smart devices to reduce the electricity bill and also detect energy theft.


Because of the transfer of responsibility from hospitals to community-based settings, providers in home-based care have more responsibilities and a wider range of tasks and responsibilities than before, often with limited resources. The increased responsibilities and the complexity of tasks and patient groups may lead to several ethical challenges. A systematic search in the databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, and SveMed+ was carried out in February 2019 and August 2020. The research question was translated into a modified PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome) worksheet. A total of 40 articles were included. The review is conducted according to the Vancouver Protocol. The main findings from the systematic literature review show that ethical challenges experienced by healthcare and social care providers in home-based care are related to autonomy and balancing ethical principles, decisions regarding intensity of care, challenges related to priority settings, truth-telling, and balancing the professional role. Findings regarding ethical challenges within home-based care are in line with findings from institutional healthcare and social care settings. However, some significant differences from the institutional context are also highlighted.


Growth and yield simulators are a valuable tool for forest managers in predicting future stumpage yields and selecting the economically best management strategies and rotation ages. These projections are appropriate for the sellers of stumpage but may not be appropriate for the producers of forest products who also own and manage the raw resource. To identify the most desirable management strategies for landbased mills, the yield model must be capable of making good estimates of final product yields, such as dry weight of pulp, lineal feet of veneer, and size and grade distribution of lumber. The Mississippi State University loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) growth and yield simulator has a dry weight pulp yield model fully integrated in the program. Dry weight pulp yields were estimated from stand and tree characteristics using a neural network model for predicting the distribution of wood chip weight by thickness class and a single tree dry weight pulp yield model. These models were embedded in the profile function based tree volume estimator of a cutover site-prepared plantation loblolly pine growth and yield simulator. The resulting model produced estimates of dry weight pulp yields comparable to actual yields. The Windows application growth and yield simulator generates harvested volumes by stumpage class, dry weight pulp yield, and net present values for user selected management regimes and merchandizing standards. It is available at http://www.cfr.msstate.edu/fwrc/software.htm (loblolly). Both stumpage sellers and pulp producers can use the software to place a value on chips from stands according to their expected stumpage and dry weight pulp yields or to select management strategies to maximize yields.


The current empirical analysis is set in the Seoul metropolitan area and attempted to analyze the Korean population's behavior vis-a-vis to open space and other factors that determine housing prices. Using the comprehensive real transaction price data and other geocoded socio-economic data, the analysis reveals that marginal implicit prices can be monetized by using estimates from the revealed preference method of hedonic price analysis and shows the SMA residents are willing to pay higher premiums for green and open spaces and other favorable unit and location characteristics. For example, the present analysis shows that homes decrease in value at rates of 14,614 KRW and 9,958 KRW per meter of distance: homes located closer to these amenities are worth more than those located at a distance. It implies that the government needs to pay a great deal of attention in a location decision of green and open spaces since new investment in green and open spaces would be likely to entail positive externalities or pitfalls in general.

The present analysis also suggests that, having marginal implicit prices in hand, a global demand curve can be derived – which can be then used as an important tool to estimate economic benefits of both environmental and non-environmental attributes of the project of our interests. It is important that economic benefits of environmental projects – public goods for which there is no entrance fee and therefore economic benefits cannot be estimated with a conventional economic analysis – can be estimated with revealed preference methods (i.e. hedonic price model) which are considered theoretically and empirically more sound than stated preference methods such as contingent valuation method because revealed preference methods analyze the behavior of actual market participants with advanced statistical methods.

Nevertheless, we should be cautious when applying hedonic price models to estimate economic benefits of environmental projects when the size and scale of the investment projects are large. This is because the scale and size of public goods investment projects that PIMAC analyzes are often so large that the spatially influenced area is also often large, which implies that it is likely that non-use values – which revealed preference methods cannot capture by nature – are in play. A vast size of area set in the present analysis helps to estimate economic benefits of large-scale projects. If non-use values are in play, however, socio-economic benefits will be, in theory, smaller than benefits predicted by contingent valuation methods. In such cases, we need to be cautious for applying revealed preference methods. Nevertheless, contingent valuation methods are subject to various types of biases arisen from diverse sources inherent in surveys and the well-known fact that free riders consuming public goods are less likely to state their WTP accurately. This often entails political conflicts in an investment decision making, which gives lights to consideration of revealed preference methods such as hedonic price models given that a more robust structural model is developed by the research followed.


Twenty years ago, the first description of a tristetraprolin (TTP) knockout mouse highlighted the fundamental role of TTP in the restraint of inflammation. Since then, work from several groups has generated a detailed picture of the expression and function of TTP. It is a sequence-specific RNA-binding protein that orchestrates the deadenylation and degradation of several mRNAs encoding inflammatory mediators. It is very extensively post-translationally modified, with more than 30 phosphorylations that are supported by at least two independent lines of evidence. The phosphorylation of two particular residues, serines 52 and 178 of mouse TTP (serines 60 and 186 of the human orthologue), has profound effects on the expression, function and localisation of TTP. Here, we discuss the control of TTP biology via its phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, with a particular focus on recent advances and on questions that remain unanswered.


PURPOSE
To evaluate immediate and long-term clinical results of percutaneous mitral commissurotomy (PMC) in patients with severe mitral stenosis.

METHODS
In a retrospective study, data were included from 317 patients over 18 years of age (mean age 45) who had been treated for mitral stenosis between January 1993 and March 2015 with PMC using the Inoue balloon technique. Immediate results: Valvular function improved as evidenced by an increase in mitral valve area from 1.01 ± 0.24 cm2 to 2 ± 0.31 cm2 (P < 0.001) and a decrease in mean mitral gradient from 13.64 ± 6.03 mm Hg to 5.40 ± 2.49 mm Hg. Long-term follow-up: At 5-15 years (mean 10.2 years, Inter-quartile range 8.25), 105 (33.1%) of the 317 patients were available for follow-up, 95 living patients and 10 deceased. Of the deceased, average time from PMC to death was 8 years. Results were strongly significant showing that age at the time of PMC and surface area before the procedure were the best predictors of survival at 15 years follow-up, showing significance values of P = 0.022 and P = 0.001, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS
PMC using the Inoue balloon technique improves morbidity and long-term mortality rates in patients with severe mitral stenosis. Lower Wilkins score and NYHA class at baseline were not found to be significant predictors of mortality in older patients (age > 45). Overall, 65 (61.9%) had survived at 5-15 years follow-up without further cardiac intervention.


Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common life-limiting recessive genetic disease among Caucasians caused by mutations of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) with over 95% male patients infertile. However, whether CFTR mutations could affect spermatogenesis and result in azoospermia remains an open question. Here we report compromised spermatogenesis, with significantly reduced testicular weight and sperm count, and decreased cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) expression in the testes of CFTR knockout mice. The involvement of CFTR in HCO3 − transport and the expression of the HCO3 − sensor, soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC), are demonstrated for the first time in the primary culture of rat Sertoli cells. Inhibition of CFTR or depletion of HCO3 − could reduce FSH-stimulated, sAC-dependent cAMP production and phosphorylation of CREB, the key transcription factor in spermatogenesis. Decreased CFTR and CREB expression are also observed in human testes with azoospermia. The present study reveals a previously undefined role of CFTR and sAC in regulating the cAMP-CREB signaling pathway in Sertoli cells, defect of which may result in impaired spermatogenesis and azoospermia. Altered CFTR-sAC-cAMP-CREB functional loop may also underline the pathogenesis of various CF-related diseases.


This work is the first step toward increasing the bandwidth of the DSS-13 antenna position loop controller. A wider bandwidth of the controller allows for faster tracking rates and better pointing performance under windy conditions. To achieve this goal, the antenna control system model has to be improved, such that it will accurately reflect the dynamic properties of the antenna. The existing analytical model, due to its many uncertainties, could not be used in the design of the controller. However, by using experimental data, the analytical model is modified and improved, and a new model is obtained through system identification techniques.


The statistical distribution of random telegraph noise (RTN) has been measured and characterized in scaled PDSOI FETs down to 20 nm gate length. Statistical analysis of RTN in >15 thousand nFETs shows temperature-independent long-tailed non-Gaussian distributions of noise amplitudes. Treated as equivalent threshold voltage variation (DeltaVth), the RTN distributions appear log-normal, with the DeltaVth reaching >70 mV for the smalles devices. Because of the log-normal distribution, it appears that RTN Vth variations may exceed random dopant fluctuation (RDF) Vth variations at the ~3 sigma level in the 22 nm generation, making RTN a very serious threat to SRAM stability at 22 nm and beyond.


In this work we address the problem of finding feasible policies for Constrained Markov Decision Processes under probability one constraints. We argue that stationary policies are not sufficient for solving this problem, and that a rich class of policies can be found by endowing the controller with a scalar quantity, so called budget, that tracks how close the agent is to violating the constraint. We show that the minimal budget required to act safely can be obtained as the smallest fixed point of a Bellman-like operator, for which we analyze its convergence properties. We also show how to learn this quantity when the true kernel of the Markov decision process is not known, while providing sample-complexity bounds. The utility of knowing this minimal budget relies in that it can aid in the search of optimal or near-optimal policies by shrinking down the region of the state space the agent must navigate. Simulations illustrate the different nature of probability one constraints against the typically used constraints in expectation.


What is the purpose of Glastir Monitoring and Evaluation Programme?

Glastir is the main scheme by which the Welsh Government pays for environmental goods and services whilst the Glastir Monitoring and Evaluation Programme (GMEP) evaluates the scheme's success. Commissioning of the monitoring programme in parallel with the launch of the Glastir scheme provides fast feedback and means payments can be modified to increase effectiveness. The Glastir scheme is jointly funded by the Welsh Government (through the Rural Development Plan) and the EU. GMEP will also support a wide range of other national and international reporting requirements.

What is the GMEP approach?
GMEP collects evidence for the 6 intended outcomes from the Glastir scheme which are focussed on climate change, water and soil quality, biodiversity, landscape, access and historic environment, woodland creation and management. Activities include; a national rolling monitoring programme of 1km squares; new analysis of long term data from other schemes combining with GMEP data where possible; modelling to estimate future outcomes so that adjustments can be made to maximise impact of payments; surveys to assess wider socio-economic benefits; and development of novel technologies to increase detection and efficiency of future assessments.

How has GMEP progressed in this 2nd year?
90 GMEP squares were surveyed in Year 2 to add to the 60 completed in Year 1 resulting in 50% of the 300 GMEP survey squares now being completed. Squares will be revisited on a 4 year cycle providing evidence of change in response to Glastir and other pressures such as changing economics of the farm business, climate change and air pollution. This first survey cycle collects the baseline against which future changes will be assessed. This is important as GMEP work this year has demonstrated land coming into the scheme is different in some respects to land outside the scheme. Therefore, future analysis to detect impact of Glastir will be made both against the national backdrop from land outside the scheme and this baseline data from land in scheme. A wide range of analyses of longterm data has been completed for all Glastir Outcomes with the exception of landscape quality and historic features condition for which limited data is available. This has involved combining data with 2013/14 GMEP data when methods allow. Overall analysis of long term data indicates one of stability but with little evidence of improvement with the exception of headwater quality, greenhouse gas emissions and woodland area for which there has been improvement over the last 20 years. Some headline statistics include: 51% of historic features in excellent or sound condition; two thirds of public rights of way fully open and accessible; improvement in hedgerow management with 85% surveyed cut in the last 3 years but < 1% recently planted; 91% of streams had some level of modification but 60% retained good ecological quality; no change topsoil carbon content over last 25 years.

What is innovative?
GMEP has developed various new metrics to allow for more streamlined reporting in the future. For example a new Priority Bird species Index for Wales which combines data from 35 species indicates at least half have stable or increasing populations. The new GMEP Visual Quality Landscape Index has been tested involving over 2600 respondents. Results have demonstrated its value as an objective and repeatable method for quantifying change in visual landscape quality. A new unified peat map for Wales has been developed which has been passed to Glastir Contract Managers to improve targeting of payments when negotiating Glastir contracts. An estimate of peat soil contribution to current greenhouse gas emissions due to human modification has been calculated. Models have allowed quantification of land area helping to mitigate rainfall runoff. We are using new molecular tools to explore the effects of Glastir on soil organisms and satellite technologies to quantify e.g. small woody features and landcover change. Finally we are using a community approach to develop a consensus on how to define and report change in High Nature Value Farmland which will be reported in the Year 3 GMEP report.


We report a new bulk glass-forming alloy Gd55Al20Ni25. The bulk sample of the alloy is prepared in the shape of rods in diameter 2 mm by suction casting. The rod exhibits typical amorphous characteristics in the x-ray diffraction pattern, paramagnetic property at 300 K, distinct glass transition and multi-step crystallization behaviour in differential scanning calorimetry traces. The glass formation ability of the alloy is investigated by using the reduced glass transition temperature Trg and the parameter γ. Kinetics of glass transition and primary crystallization is also studied. The fragility parameter m obtained from the Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann dependence of glass transition temperature Tg on ln ( is the heating rate) classifies the bulk metallic glasses into the intermediate category according to Angell's classification.


Mast cells are considered to be the primary effector cells in urticaria but it is possible that lymphocytes contribute to the formation of weals by secreting histamine releasing factors. The aim of this study was to examine the population of mast cells and to quantify the T cell subsets and their activation status in delayed pressure urticaria (DPU), chronic idiopathic urticaria and normal controls. Three biopsies were obtained from each of four patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria but not DPU. Three biopsies were taken from each of 13 patients with DPU, from a combination of unchallenged skin and at 0, 2, 6, 24, 48 and 120 h after weighted steel rods (diameter 1.5 cm) had been applied to the thighs. Three biopsies were similarly obtained from each of four normal controls before an identical pressure challenge and at 6, 24 and 48 h afterwards. The chloracetate esterase stain was used to demonstrate mast cells and an alkaline phosphatase anti‐alkaline phosphatase immunohistochemical technique to assess the phenotypic and activation characteristics of the T cell infiltrate. The mast cell count did not differ significantly between unchallenged skin from DPU patients and normal controls. Following a pressure challenge to the DPU patients, the number of stainable mast cells decreased significantly to a level comparable with that in spontaneous weals of chronic idiopathic urticaria. Investigation of T cell subsets showed a preponderance of CD4+ cells over CD8+ cells. There was no evidence of T cell activation in chronic idiopathic urticaria or DPU when compared with normal controls. These data support the view that mast cell degranulation occurs in chronic idiopathic urticaria and suggest that it may also play a role in the pathogenesis of DPU. There was no evidence that lymphocyte activation occurs in either condition.


Calcium is thought to be the most important mineral element determining fruit quality. It seems to be especially important in apples where it has been shown to reduce metabolic disorders. Calcium in adequate amounts helps to maintain apple fruit firmness and decreases the incidence of physiological disorders such as water core, bitter pit and internal breakdown. Postharvest decay may also be reduced by increasing the calcium content of apple fruit. The major problem is getting enough calcium into the fruit to have the desired effects. Soil treatments with calcium to increase fruit calcium concentration have often met with very little success. The direct application of calcium to the fruit is the most effective method for increasing fruit calcium content. This can be accomplished by preharvest sprays or postharvest dips or vacuum or pressure infiltration. Although calcium sprayed on apples on the tree can increase calcium content of the fruit, direct postharvest treatment of the fruit in solutions of calcium chloride can be even more effective. Pressure infiltration with solutions of calcium chloride can increase the calcium concentrations of apple fruit more effectively than vacuum infiltration which is more effective than dipping. Both pre- and postharvest calcium treatment methods have inherent problems. Inadequate calcium uptake is a problem in some cases in that not enough calcium is taken into the fruit to have a positive effect. In other cases, excessive calcium is taken into the fruit and injury results. Developing a commercially acceptable method of successfully increasing calcium concentration in fruit is a continuing challenge. In the meantime, orchard management to optimize fruit calcium uptake in the preharvest environment combined with supplemental postharvest application is the best strategy to prevent losses due to low fruit calcium.


This article analyzes how the concept of desencanto (disenchantment) was framed within the political discourse of the Spanish democratic transition as a way of delegitimizing radical political actors and normalizing the realpolitik of elite consensus. Through an analysis of the ubiquitous mainstream press usage of the term between 1977 and 1982, I argue that the combination of emotional and temporal meanings assigned to the concept worked to reinforce the moderation exhibited by government positions. Desencanto represented the disappointment or sadness felt by those hoping for a revolutionary rupture with Franco's dictatorship, which was associated to nostalgia or pathological relationships of the past. With the "revolution," or "utopia" of the past, critics made clear that the radical Left was nostalgic or unrealistic for political projects that did not belong in a modern democracy, exclusively understood from the single and present-oriented politics of moderation and the possible.


Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Due to limited efficacy of current conventional chemotherapy, the majority of patients face poor prognosis and eventually succumb the disease. Therefore, the study of combination therapy using traditional anticancer drugs with novel therapeutic approaches is needed. Pirfenidone is a small molecule that is being used in Phase II and III clinical trials for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Although it has already been approved for IPF in Europe, there is no known mechanism of action known for the drug. Recently we discovered that Pirfenidone has a detrimental effect on cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) as well as in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Our hypothesis is that Pirfenidone, in combination with standard chemotherapy, will act synergistically and proffer a more potent therapeutic strategy for NSCLC. Our studies show that in a co-culture model there is a decrease in viability on CAFs and NSCLC cells when the combination of Pirfenidone and Cisplatin is used. Furthermore, Pirfenidone and Cisplatin were able to have an anti-tumor effect in a xenograft model of NSCLC and CAFs. In addition, insights in the mechanism by which Pirfenidone and Cisplatin induce synergy in NSCLC cells are being elucidated. Our studies show that the combination of drugs leads to an increase in phosphorylated ERK as well as a decrease in phosphorylated Akt. Thus, involving the PI3K and MAPK/ERK pathways in Pirfenidone/Cisplatin induced cell death. Our lab is the first to recognize the therapeutic potential of combining Pirfenidone and Cisplatin, as well as elucidating the mechanism of action for both drugs in NSCLC. Citation Format: Melanie Mediavilla-Varela, David Noyes, Kingsley Boateng, Scott Antonia. Combination of Pirfenidone and Cisplatin as a potential therapeutic strategy in NSCLC. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 1704. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-1704


Familial hypobetalipoproteinemia (FHBL) is a codominant genetic disorder characterized by reduced plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein B. To our knowledge, no study on FHBL in Lebanon and the Middle East region has been reported. Therefore, we conducted genetic studies in unrelated families and probands of Lebanese origin presenting with FHBL, in order to identify the causes of this disease. We found that 71% of the recruited probands and their affected relatives were heterozygous for the p.(Arg490Trp) variant in the APOB gene. Haplotype analysis showed that these patients presented the same mutant haplotype. Moreover, there was a decrease in plasma levels of PCSK9 in affected individuals compared to the non-affected and a significant positive correlation between circulating PCSK9 and ApoB levels in all studied probands and their family members. Some of the p.(Arg490Trp) carriers suffered from diabetes, hepatic steatosis or neurological problems. In conclusion, the p.(Arg490Trp) pathogenic variant seems a cause of FHBL in patients from Lebanese origin, accounting for approximately 70% of the probands with FHBL presumably as a result of a founder mutation in Lebanon. This study is crucial to guide the early diagnosis, management and prevention of the associated complications of this disease.


The influences of EBM processing and post-processing on microstructure, mechanical properties and cracking behaviour in a γ' precipitation-strengthened nickel-base superalloy DZ125 are critically assessed. Results show that a solution treating and ageing (STA) is required to obtain γ' precipitates with a cuboidal shape. The columnar grain width was found to gradually increase from the bottom to the top of the as-EBM sample having a total build height of 80 mm, whereas there was little gradient in γ' size. The presence of EBM induced intergranular cracks can be closed by hot isostatic pressing (HIP), however reappearance of intergranular cracks with a much wider crack opening width was observed after STA treatment. EBM induced cracks are classified as liquid-state cracking, as the classic dendritic morphology were found on the cracked surfaces. The post-processing induced cracks can be attributed to the effect of γ' dissolution and re-precipitation of fine γ' during the cooling stage of solution treatment. The results suggest that HIP is not an effective approach in healing liquid-state cracks in EBM fabricated γ' precipitation-strengthened superalloys.


Post-modern theory and theorizing are as critical and fundamental as they are pungent in understanding, describing and analyzing political events, actions, activities and trends in societies. Essentially, the application of political theories as dependable frameworks or tools of analysis for studying and analyzing politics in contemporary times is fraught with a number of challenges. The major objective of this paper is to examine the challenges faced by Post-modern political theory and theorizing. This paper adopts the historical descriptive method of analysis. Much of the study is based on archival and library research which include texts, journals, models and works of other scholars related to the study. In an attempt to answer the question, what are the challenges plaguing Post-modern political theory and theorizing, the paper identified interpretation, consistency and language, critical appraisal and value-judgment, background influences and objectivity, among others as some of the challenges. The paper recommended, among others, that there should be consistency and uniformity in interpretation of theories, Political theorists should come to an agreement or consensus on the role and purpose of the state instead of having different views, there should be objectivity in political theory and theorizing. The paper concluded by strongly suggesting that the earlier the challenges are addressed the better the future of political theory and theorizing.
Keywords: Post-Modern, Political Theory, Theorizing, Challenges.


Though science and technology are evolving rapidly in recent years, the traditional science education has limits for students to be satisfied their interests and needs because they couldn"t follow these speeds. STEAM as a education integrating science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics has strengths of increasing interests and understandings in science and technology and improving integrated thinking and problem solving ability for leaners. In this study we analyze the elementary school curriculum and construct physics learning based on STEAM and develop a android application to increase interests in science and improve problem solving ability. In the future, we need to analyze and develop the curriculum and contents for the STEAM education.


ABSTRACT A glycoprotein (Cpgp40/15)-encoding gene of Cryptosporidium parvum was analyzed to reveal intraspecies polymorphism within C. parvum isolates. Forty-one isolates were collected from different geographical origins (Japan, Italy, and Nepal) and hosts (humans, calves, and a goat). These isolates were characterized by means of DNA sequencing, PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), and RFLP-single-strand conformational polymorphism (RFLP-SSCP) analyses of the gene for Cpgp40/15. The sequence analysis indicated that there was DNA polymorphism between genotype I and II, as well as within genotype I, isolates. The DNA and amino acid sequence identities between genotypes I and II differed, depending on the isolates, ranging from 73.3 to 82.9% and 62.4 to 80.1%, respectively. Those among genotype I isolates differed, depending on the isolates, ranging from 69.0 to 85.4% and 54.8 to 79.2%, respectively. Because of the high resolution generated by PCR-RFLP and RFLP-SSCP, the isolates of genotype I could be subtyped as genotypes Ia1, Ia2, Ib, and Ie. The isolates of genotype II could be subtyped as genotypes IIa, IIb, and IIc. The isolates from calves, a goat, and one Japanese human were identified as genotype II. Within genotype II, the isolates from Japan were identified as genotype IIa, those from calves in Italy were identified as genotype IIb, and the goat isolate was identified as genotype IIc. All of the genotype I isolates were from humans. The Japanese isolate (code no. HJ3) and all of the Nepalese isolates were identified as genotypes Ia1 and Ia2, respectively. The Italian isolates were identified as genotype Ib, and the Japanese isolate (code no. HJ2) was identified as genotype Ie. Thus, the PCR-RFLP-SSCP analysis of this glycoprotein Cpgp40/15 gene generated a high resolution that has not been achieved by previous methods of genotypic differentiation of C. parvum.


Probabilistic modelling can be used to get an insight into the variability and uncertainty of the nutrient intake in a population. When a probabilistic model is used, it is important that it is validated. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis of the model output can give an insight into the most important input variables of the model and can be used as an aid to describe the reliability of the model. In this study, four models to estimate vitamin B6 intake among males and females were validated using the method of Kaaks et al. This method compares the relationship between three diferent kind of measurements with the unknown 'true' intake. In each of these four models, only one input variable (concentration or bioavailability) was changed compared with a reference model. A sensitivity analysis was also performed. The results of the validation showed that for males, a model using a fixed bioavailability factor at the food group level was valid, while for females a model using either a fixed value or a distribution for the bioavailability factor was valid. Use of a distribution for the concentration of vitamin B6 in supplements was not valid. The results of the sensitivity analysis showed that the concentration of vitamin B6 in food and supplements was the key contributor to variability and uncertainty in the model estimates of vitamin B6 intake, in both males and females. All results indicated that when taking variability and uncertainty into account by using probabilistic modelling, the effect on the nutrient intake for nutrients that are present in many common eaten foods, is small. For these broadly available nutrients, fixed concentrations and bioavailability factors give a good estimate of the nutrient intake in a population. When using probabilistic modelling, it is very important to collect more actual information about the concentration.


We present an overview of the aerodynamics of heavy vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, high-speed trains, and buses. We introduce three-dimensional flow structures around simplified model vehicles and heavy vehicles and discuss the flow-control devices used for drag reduction. Finally, we suggest important unsteady flow structures to investigate for the enhancement of aerodynamic performance and future directions for experimental and numerical approaches.


This paper analyzes the limiting behavior of L1 adaptive controllers in the presence of fast adaptation. For linear systems it is shown that the L1 adaptive controllers approximate an implementable non–adaptive linear controller, when the adaptation rate approaches infinity. This implies that both the L1 adaptive and the limiting non–adaptive control systems achieve the same control objective. The essential difference between the two systems is in the synthesis of the feedback signal. In the limiting non–adaptive system the feedback signal makes explicit use of the system inverse, while the fast estimation loop of the L1 adaptive controller approximates this inverse map, avoiding the explicit system inversion. This property of the adaptive architecture is essential for its extension to nonlinear systems and also for accommodating various hardware constraints.


The purpose of the present study is to explain if there is any difference in the environmental risk perceptions of university students and the association of such differences, if any, with environmental education. Nowadays, the importance of education in understanding the risks that threaten the environment and suggesting solutions for such risks and raising awareness on environmental matters has become an important research question. It is known that higher education is the level of education where individuals are able to attain environmental awareness. Hence, it is necessary to investigate the university students' environment risk perceptions related to environment education. The present study is a relational study with a descriptive pattern aimed to describe the relationship between university students' environment risk perceptions and environment education. The "Environmental Risk Perceptions" questionnaire was the basic data collection tool of this study. The questionnaire was tested in a pilot study with 250 university students and it was revised according to the feedback obtained from these students. The revised version of the questionnaire was used in the field study which was conducted through face-to-face interviews with 570 university students actively attending in Vocational College of Technical Sciences of Akdeniz University in Turkey from January 2015 to May 2016. The obtained data from the questionnaires are analyzed through the SPSS statistical package program. The current study found that a significant positive relationship was found between the students' environment education and their environmental risk perceptions. Students responding to the study stated that taking at least 1 course on environment during their university education had an impact on all aspects of their environmental risk perception. The great majority of students expressed that university education had improved their sensitivity towards environmental matters and they knew about the prominent non-governmental organizations active in the field of environment and became members to such organizations owing to their education. The results of the present study indicate that the formal education and non-formal learning processes offered at vocational colleges with respect to matters concerning the environment have an impact upon students. In fact, the present study gives way to the opinion that the addition of courses on environmental matters to all programmers creates a difference in the environmental risk perceptions of students.


Metabolic clearance rates (MCR) and secretion rates for growth hormone (GH) were determined in young (6-wk-old) chicks and adults (1 yr old) as well as in chicks fed low protein diets for 2 wk. Birds were either conscious or anesthetized during these determinations in the latter study. Age-related differences in plasma concentrations of GH reflect greater secretion of GH in younger chicks (3.5-fold increase). The MCR was reduced by 35% in chicks compared with adults, but when expressed per unit metabolic body weight, was higher in the young chickens. The MCR in protein-restricted chicks was 28% lower than in that of controls. However, when the MCR was calculated on a metabolic body weight basis, protein-restricted and control chicks did not differ in MCR. Elevated plasma concentrations of GH in unanesthetized, protein-restricted chicks were due to greater GH secretion (2.4-fold) of these chicks compared with secretions of chicks fed control diets. Basal secretions of GH, determined in the anesthetized chicks, did not differ between dietary treatments. These results indicate that secretion of GH but not clearance was affected by protein restriction in conscious birds.


A theory is developed for describing the electrocardiogram (ECG) in terms of underlying cellular processes of ion transport. ECG evolvement over time is regarded as a sequence of partly overlapping self-similar transient potentials, with the generic mass potential (GMP) being the basic element. Using equations of the nonhomogeneous birth-and-death process (BDP), a particle model of GMP in the form of chaotic BDP is deduced. The formalism of deterministic chaos not only brings together the deterministic and stochastic factors underlying ECG genesis, but also does this with the minimum number of free parameters. No matter how complex the system of underlying ion transport, just a single parameter (the chaos factor), yet directly derived from microscopic scale equations, aggregates essential aspects of the ECG dynamics. This paradigm is investigated in numerical experiments, and qualified as the chaotic transformations effect. At the global level the mass effect of chaotic transformations is described by a system of nonlinear differential equations. Applications of this theory are supported by the method of high-resolution fragmentary decomposition which resolves component temporal overlap and reconciles the ECG waveforms with the dynamics of chaotic processes. This technique goes beyond conventional measures such as ECG peak amplitudes and latencies, and provides a more comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of ECG waveforms. In particular, the resolution of the component overlap provides means for recognising the complex composition of Q, R and S waves, and co-operative action of the systems producing R and S waves.


Purpose: This study was to suggest the direction to the exercise intervention development for the stroke survivors. Method: 12 domestic and 54 foreign research papers about the exercise intervention for the stroke patients published during 1998~2007 were analyzed. Result: Among the papers, quasi-experimental design(75.8%) and multidisciplinary approach(60.6%) were the most frequent ones. The mean age of the respondents was 63.3 and the intervention was supplied for 7.14 weeks. The frequency of exercise was 3.87 per week and the exercise time was 1.88 hours. And physical research variables - such as ambulation, muscle strength, activities of daily living and balance - were more than psychosocial variables. This study suggested that the exercise intervention for the stroke survivors need to include aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening exercise, flexible exercise, body coordination, balance exercise. In addition we confirmed that the exercise intervention was revealed as an effective physiological parameters; such as maximum oxygen uptake quantity, blood pressure. Conclusion: We suggest that the further researchs are needed which include the intensity of exercise into the quantity of the exercise. Also researchers need to extend the motion intervention time for an effective sociopsychological variable and to try the meta analysis for the effective exercise intervention for the stroke survivors.


Introduction. Radiotherapy (RT) is an important modality for curative treatment in high‑risk prostate cancer (PCa) patients that improves overall survival, however, it may cause unfavorable changes in physical fitness, increased risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic complications. The effects of physical exercise on aerobic capacity and on serum levels of liver and renal function indices in PCa patients undergoing RT are still unknown. Aim. The purpose was to assess the impact of supervised physical activity on aerobic capacity, hemorheology and metabolic biomarker levels in high‑risk PCa patients during RT. Material and methods. Seventy‑two men were randomly allocated to two groups before RT for high‑risk prostate carcinoma. Thirty‑six men conducted physical exercise (EG) and the other 36 men were a control group (UC). Outcomes measured were 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), blood parameters, serum levels of hepatic and renal function biomarkers (urea, creatinine, alanine and aspartate aminotransferase, PSA) in a modified shuttle test before and after RT. Results. After RT, decreased diastolic blood pressure (before test p = 0.05) was observed in the EG and in the UG, there was an increase in resting heart rate (p = 0.017), a decrease in walking distance (p = 0.036), and an increase in Borg fatigue score during the 6MWT. There was no statistically significant change in renal biomarkers or PSA in the liver in either group. Conclusions. Physical activity in prostate carcinoma patients during RT improves capacity tolerance with a decrease in Borg fatigue score, but this activity did not influence on serology outcomes or other blood indicators during RT


This is a study in which emotional intelligence (EI) as well as several other personality dimensions were studied in a real, high-stakes, selection situation, N=190. Forty-one trait oriented personality scales were measured and factor analyzed. A factor pattern with four secondary factors was found: EI, emotional stability, rigidity/perfectionism and energy/dominance. These factors were related to standard FFM (Five Factor Model) dimensions, to Hogan's Development Survey ("the dark side of personality") and to a number of tasks measuring skills in identifying emotions and emotion knowledge. It was found that EI and emotional stability correlated significantly with some of the latter measures, more so than the FFM scales. Impression management was measured with several scales. In the end of the testing session, participants were instructed explicitly to fake their answers. These active faking responses showed consistency across personality dimensions and also correlated strongly with impression management scores. Correcting the final pooled score (the four secondary factors combined) for impression management and faking produced fairly strong changes in the "short list" of participants ranking among the top 30, or 60. It is concluded that personality trait EI shows some promise while emotion identification tasks must probably be geared towards human emotion rather than abstract judgment of emotion as expressed in art or music.


With the increasing improvement of living standard, people pay more attention to the quality and security of their food. There is an increase in the consumption of aquatic products and a vast prospect of its trade. Fisheries as a major one of the traditional industries in China have significant price advantages and natural resources. However, marine pollution in China is more and more serious and the expecting of aquatic products has been seriously influenced by green barriers in the recent years. This paper tries to examine the effect of Chinese marine pollution on export of aquatic products in China. This paper utilizes cointegration test to estimate long-run equilibrium between marine pollution and fisheries products export. The results indicate that real exchange rate and income variable have positive effects and fish price has negative effect on China's fisheries export to Korea. However, marine pollution variable has no statistically significant effect on dependant variable. And according to the result of China's fisheries export to Japan, exchange rate has positive effect and both fish price and marine pollution variable have negative effects on export. Lastly, marine pollution and income level have effects on dependant variable in the case of Hong Kong, but exchange rate and price variable have no significant effect on aquatic products export from China to Hong Kong. In a word, marine pollution of China is a serious problem and it has negative effect on Chinese export of aquatic products.


The Chinese name for martial arts is known as Wushu; it is a typical Chinese sport in which both internal and exterior actions are emphasized. Wushu training evaluation is a hot research area, and deep learning has long been an essential tool for ensuring and promoting continuous development in the quality of Wushu training assessment. The deep learning-based martial arts training programme successfully processes and analyses the massive raw data produced throughout the teaching process at colleges and institutions. The online learning behavior is obtained by training the detection model of target, model for detection of face, and face segmentation model and then merging them with the online system. Feature extraction, offline performance prediction, learning law analysis, and personalized learning recommendation can provide decision support for training of martial arts evaluation as well as the formulation of related improvement measures. It can successfully increase the teaching quality of teachers and the learning efficiency of students by catering to the current online and offline combination of new learning and teaching techniques. In this paper, a martial arts training evaluation model based on deep learning technology is presented in light of the variety and vast quantity of martial arts training evaluations, using MatConvNet to build a deep neural network and organically fuse various raw data of martial arts training evaluation. The proposed approach provides a more accurate assessment of martial arts training and has some practical applications. In experimental evaluation of the model, it is obtained that the network's prediction performance is at its greatest value when the combination number of layers are eight.