Maduganga situated in the Galle District of the Southern Province is typical of the river systems which line the south west coast of Sri Lanka. In the global context the ecological significance of the system has enabled it to achieve the "Ramsar Wetland" status in 2003. In the local context it is a Sanctuary, a Tourist Development Area and a Special Area Managed (SAM) by the Coast Conservation Department. The present study was motivated by the unique environment of this river system and the close relation of the inhabitants with the environment. Man's utilization of nature and landscape over time is quite obvious in this system. The history of the man and environment relationship of the region is revealed by the historic and literary sources. Archaeological remains which belong to the recent past shed light on the constant change of local socio economics. Thus the evolution of the socio economic pattern of the research area was studied from the historical and archaeological evidence. The current state of the conditions was recognized through the participant observation and interviews with a sample of the residents in the locality. Maduganga System represents the typical situation of the south western Sri Lanka which became the centre of power and socio economic activities from the 13th century A. D. In the Early Historic Age Maduganga region as well as the most of the south west coast had been low lying wetlands with hostile conditions for the human settlements. In 11th – 12th century A. D. southern Sri Lanka became a battlefield where the kings, princes and other leaders fought for the throne. Some of them changed the hard environment of the region to facilitate settlements and cultivation. Dambadeniya Kingdom became the first influential centre of power in the south west in the 13th century A. D. Historic chronicles reveal that Minister Dewapathiraja of the King Parakramabahu II of Dambadeniya Era had resided in the suburbs of Maduganga and developed the roads, bridges and agriculture of the area. Due to the occurrence of lagoons along the south west coast the global scenario of rising marine trade penetrated and overwhelmed the coasts. Therefore in this period ports and trade developed in the estuarine river mouths of the region while the variety of commercial and subsistant cultivations dispersed inland. This was a very critical transitional period of the socio economical pattern. With the foreign trade Cinnamon zeylanicum which grew naturally in the upper reaches of the rivers in this part of the country became a commercial crop. It attracted foreign invaders and played a pivotal role over the administration and socio economics of the region for few centuries. Cinnamon centred economy went through major changes under the British occupation to bring out new economic values. As a result current socio economic background of the Maduganga region is dominated by tourism and fisheries. Cinnamon cultivation has also risen back after the years of collapse. These socio economic factors are very influential over the biodiversity of Maduganga wetland which is amply populated today. From this population our sample was ten households of the Maduwa Island. The main living of the majority of these was government and private sector employments which consecutively form 40% and 20% of the total. The rest is consisted with fisheries 20%, trade 10% and agriculture 10%. Therefore the principal income of only the 30% of the households is connected with the environment. But all the households have one or more secondary incomes as cinnamon cultivation, coir industry and tourism which directly involve environment. It clearly depicts the trend towards engaging in the formal employments extract of the environment while making an informal living from their environment. The research revealed the pros and cons of this current socio economic background of the region and the most appropriate conservation and management measures. Some practices of eco tourism, such as encouraging residents and tourists in enriching the mangroves are an example.


An unselected sample of outpatient subjects (n = 330) with localized nonspecific low back pain (LBP) was studied. Investigation consisted of clinical assessment, physical examination, and psychiatric interview based on the DSM-III classification. A psychiatric disorder, according to the DSM-III criteria (axis I) was found in 41% of the subjects. Multiple correspondence analysis and cluster analysis were used to objectively identify clinical subtypes without preconceived theoretical models. Correspondence analyses suggested the existence of a 'psychological pain' syndrome consisting of several of the following symptoms: diffuse back pain, impossibility to assess intensity of pain on a pain seale, aggravation of pain by changing climate, by domestic activities or by psychological factors and dysesthesias in the back. Cluster analysis provided support for a four-group classification of low back pain, which may be interpreted through the relationships between psychological disturbances and the LBP clinical features. The results call for further investigation of the complex relationship between psychological disturbances and back pain. However, clinicians must be aware of the interest of a minimal psychiatric assessment in low back pain patients: psychiatric disorders frequently appear in these patients and an appropriate treatment of the psychiatric syndrome may reduce back pain.


Gaming simulation allows innovation stakeholders to experiment with innovations in a shielded environment. The main contribution to innovation processes is not solely the provision of knowledge to stakeholders but also the manipulation of process volatility. Volatility is the speed and magnitude by which innovations, stakeholders and institutions change during the process, creating unpredictability and uncontrollability. This paper posits that a more even distribution of volatility over time is beneficial and that gaming simulation is able to contribute to this. The use of games allows innovation managers to front-load volatility beforehand or diminish it when it occurs. Crucial is that both effects demand from games qualitatively different design choices. This paper distills, from a multitude of gaming experiments in the U.K. and Dutch railroad sector, a set of design choices to consider. This enables game designers and innovation managers to improve the impact of gaming simulation on innovation processes.


Coal mining adversely affects the eco-system as a whole. It is important to conduct suitable assessment studies to learn the potential adverse impact of mining on agriculture. In the subsequent discussions an attempt has been made to clarify the coal mining activities and its residual impact on environment and agricultural activities.The leaseholds for the underground mines are procured from the land lords who grantmining authority the right for underground coal mining. The land for houses, dwellings and the associated activities are purchased piecemeal from different sources while large portion of the surface right remained under the control of farmers and landlords. Underground mining in these areas is conducted with full responsibility of the surface protection by the operators who normally maintain pillars as the natural support to the surface features. Increasing demand for open caste mining process requires huge land. These lands sometime are acquired at the cost of cultivable land. Coal mining has direct impact over agriculture in the study region and residual impacts of mining bring far reaching consequences. The present study is explanatory in nature based on empirical facts collected from various formal sources from Coal India office. The task is to bring out the issues related to coal mining activities and their impact on vegetation and agriculture in adjoining areas in Raniganj and Jharia coalfields in India through this study .


Heterogeneous networks (HetNets) are likely to provide a ubiquitous access to the mobile broadband services as they involve various small cells, each targeting a different environment in the network. However, the application of the advanced resource allocation techniques is highly needed in order to handle the inter-cell interference and fully exploit the benefits of such networks. In this study, the authors address the spectrum sharing problem in a HetNet composed of a macrocell and several femtocells. They propose a new approach in which macrocell and femtocells can simultaneously share the available bandwidth, while avoiding the intra-tier interference and helping the macrocell to offload by expanding the cell range of some femtocells. It is formulated as a Stackelberg game, in which the macrocell is selling bandwidths to femtocells in exchange of some victim macro-users to serve, mainly the macro-users who undergo severe interference from the neighboring femtocells. By demonstrating the overall network performance is improved in terms of total femtocells' throughputs and spectral efficiency of the macro-users who are in the vicinity of the femtocells.


Studies have been made of the alteration of pure albite single crystals and powders. No structural modification of the feldspar itself has been detected. No evidence has been obtained for any preferential orientation of an alteration product in relation to the initial feldspar. Under hydrothermal conditions at 280° C and 430° C., albite flakes and powders have been subjected to attack by 0.1 N HCl for periods ranging from a few hours to 52 days. The flakes changed mainly to boehmite, the powders to a variety of products, including a well-defined kaolinite. This difference of behavior is interpreted in terms of Correns' ideas on the weathering of silicates.


Introduction: AZD9291, a third-generation and mutation-selective epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), is active against patients with EGFRT790M-mutant non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who failed prior treatment with EGFR TKIs. However, acquired resistance to AZD9291 is inevitable. In this study, we identified the mechanisms of acquired resistance to AZD9291 in EGFRT790M-mutant NSCLC. Methods: Four NSCLC patients with both an EGFR exon 19 deletion and the EGFRT790M mutation after developing acquired resistance to first-generation EGFR TKIs received AZD9291 at doses of 20 to 80 mg/day in a phase I trial (NCT01802632). Paired tumor samples before and after treatment were obtained to evaluate EGFR modifications, alternative pathway activation, and histologic transformation. Genetic alterations were analyzed using Sanger sequencing, fluorescence in situ hybridization, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and targeted exome sequencing. Results: All four patients achieved a partial response (median duration of response, 9 months [range, 9–11 months]) and subsequently showed resistance to AZD9291. EGFRT790M-mutant clones depopulated AZD9291-resistant tumors to below 1% (baseline, 14%–36%) in three patients with progression: one with the loss of EGFRLREAT747del/T790M-double mutant clones and two accompanied by transformation to small-cell carcinoma and focal fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) amplification, respectively. EGFRT790M-mutant clones remained and the EGFR ligand was overexpressed in one patient with focal progression to AZD9291. Conclusion: Acquired resistance mechanisms of AZD9291 in patients with EGFRT790M-mutant NSCLC who failed treatment with first-generation EGFR TKIs include the loss of EGFRT790M-mutant clones plus alternative pathway activation or histologic transformation and EGFR ligand–dependent activation.


This paper aims to introduce non-experts to the results and techniques of nonparametric convergence rates. It opens by bridging the gap between familiar Cramer-Rao theory for parametric problems, and nonparametric minimax theory. This is done by putting parametric convergence rates into a minimax setting, and by solving nonparametric problems via the Cramer-Rao bound. Then we develop a unifying account of the 'discrimination approach' to convergence rate problems. We give two basic theorems from which optimal achievable convergence rates (both local and global) may be easily deduced in a variety of circumstances. Four examples illustrate use of the technique.


Autonomous object manipulation and perception with environmental factor-triggered and self-powered actuation is one of the most attractive directions for developing next-generation soft robotics with a smart human-machine-environment interface. Humidity, as a sustainable energy source ubiquitous in the surrounding environment, can be used for triggering smart grippers. In this work, it is proposed that by contacts between the gripper and objects upon humidity-induced actuation, real-time distinguishable triboelectric signals can be generated to realize the humidity-driven object manipulation and identification. Herein, a thermo-modified electrospun polyvinylpyrrolidone/poly(acrylic acid)/MIL-88A (T-PPM) nanofibrous film with micro-to-nano cross-scale porosity is developed, and a bilayer humidity-responsive actuator (T-HRA) was designed, mimicking the tamariskoid spikemoss to enhance the humidity-driven actuation. The breathing effect of MIL-88A and hierarchical porous structure of the T-PPM facilitate moisture diffusion and offer huge actuation (2.41 cm-1) with a fast response (0.084 cm-1 s-1). For autonomous object manipulation perception, T-PPM was verified as a tribo-positive material located between paper and silk. Accordingly, the T-HRA was demonstrated as a smart soft gripper that generates a different electric signal upon contact with objects of different material. This work proposes a concept of soft robots that are interactive with the environment for both autonomous object manipulation and information acquisition.


Zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP) is produced endogenously during heme metabolism and treated in cells as a heme oxygenase inhibitor. In the present study, the effects of ZnPP on the color response of 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, a commonly-used method for analyzing cell viability, were investigated. ZnPP induced rapid decolorizaion of MTT formazan under light; the degradation rates were 10- and 20- folds faster in the presence of 5 and 10 µM ZnPP, respectively. Methylene blue (MB), another type of photosensitizer, also accelerated degradation of formazan under light. Butylated hyroxytoluene did not inhibit ZnPP- or MB-induced formazan degradation. The color degradation of formazan dye was signficantly delayed in the presence of N-acetylcysteine or β-carotene. The present results suggest that certain photosensitizing compounds may affect the color and stability of MTT formazan, which should be carefully considered when conducting the MTT assay.


Promoting safety at work represents a fundamental task for achieving improvement in the quality of working life and preventing accidental injuries at work. Nevertheless, over the last few decades injuries at work have continued to constitute a significant problem. The aim of this study was to examine accident risk perception in a sample of 45 subjects employed in the electricity sector and to relate their risk perception to personality characteristics, cognitive functioning, and personal and professional history. The instruments used were: "Cognitive Behavioral Assessment 2.0", the "Workplace safety questionnaire" (an Italian questionnaire on safety at work), and a battery of neuropsychological tests. Findings show that electricity (current variability) was perceived as the most serious risk factor, while the most frequent perceived risk factors for accidents were accidental falls, cuts and bruises. The subjects of our sample showed a good awareness of risk perception, and good mood response and augmented psychophysiological activation during accidental injuries.


cases of diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis and one case of membranous glomerulonephritis). The discrepancy between these studies does not permit definite conclusions to be reached about the role of RF in the aetiopathogenesis of SLE nephropathy.


The aim of this study was to describe in more detail the predisposition, natural course, and clinical impact of post-transplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM) after heart transplantation (HT). The characteristics and clinical outcomes of 54 patients with PTDM were compared with those of 140 patients without PTDM. The mean age of PTDM patients was significantly higher than controls (48.9 ± 9.3 vs 38.6 ± 13.3 yr, respectively, P = 0.001), and ischemic heart disease was a more common indication of HT (20.4% [11/54] vs 7.1% [10/140], respectively, P = 0.008). In multivariate analysis, only recipient age (odds ratio, 1.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.35-2.40; P = 0.001) was associated with PTDM development. In 18 patients (33%), PTDM was reversed during the follow-up period, and the reversal of PTDM was critically dependent on the time taken to develop PTDM (1.9 ± 1.0 months in the reversed group vs 14.5 ± 25.3 months in the maintained group, P = 0.005). The 5-yr incidence of late infection (after 6 months) was higher in the PTDM group than in the control group (30.4% ± 7.1% vs 15.4% ± 3.3%, respectively, P = 0.031). However, the 5-yr overall survival rate was not different (92.9% ± 4.1% vs 85.8% ± 3.2%, respectively, P = 0.220). In conclusion, PTDM after HT is reversible in one-third of patients and is not a critical factor in patient survival after HT.


This study examined the social-semantic meaning of selected Zambian Senga nicknames within the Senga social and cultural milieu. It unveiled the social- semantic significance of selected Senga nicknames in relation to their social and cultural setting. It also established the etymology of the names as well as the social cultural significance of meanings expressed in the nicknames. This study adopted a qualitative approach. A purposive sampling technique was employed through which fourteen persons, who were considered sufficiently knowledgeable in the Senga language, provided an accurate explanation of the data. The participants were drawn from Chama District of the Eastern Province of Zambia. Data was collected through an interview guide, which was administered to the selected research participants. Data was analysed using Social Semiotic Theory. In line with social semiotics, nicknames express both connotative and denotative meanings. In addition, Senga nicknames have social and cultural significance in that they warn witches, discourage selfishness, provide wisdom, encourage, demonstrate endurance, reprimand, teach self-reliance, show ownership, discourage laziness, expose promiscuous behaviour, hard work and traditional beliefs. Lastly, it is recommended that other aspects of Senga anthroponyms may be researched on. These might include personal names, their etymology and semantic value.


We have identified the northern Tibetan Plateau as having experienced the most significant warming of any region in the entire plateau domain since 1961. Warming in the northern plateau violates the previously suggested elevation dependency of warming trends. Further analysis shows that the increase in surface air temperature in summer has played a primary role in the rapid increase of the annual mean air temperature in the northern Tibetan Plateau since the mid‐1980s. In addition, the summer air temperature is correlated with ozone in the region, a result which is statistically significant. This correlation seems to have a relationship with solar radiation and ozone depletion ratios. Further discussion shows that the most significant warming in the northern plateau may be related to radiative and dynamical heating that are results of pronounced stratospheric ozone depletion. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society


Many computer systems are based on various types of messages, forms, or other objects. When users of such systems need to communicate with people who use different object types, some kind of translation is necessary. In this paper, we explore the space of general solutions to this translation problem and propose a scheme that synthesizes these solutions. After first illustrating the problem in the Object Lens system, we identify two partly conflicting objectives that any translation scheme should satisfy: preservation of meaning and autonomous evolution of group languages. Then we partition the space of possible solutions to this problem in terms of the set theoretic relations between group languages and a common language. This leads to five primary solution classes and we illustrate and evaluate each one. Finally, we describe a composite scheme, called Partially Shared Views, that combines many of the best features of the other schemes. A key insight of the analysis is that partially shared type hierarchies allow "foreign" object types to be automatically translated into their nearest common "ancestor" types. The partial interoperability attained in this way makes possible flexible standards from which people can benefit from whatever agreements they do have without having to agree on everything. Even though our examples deal primarily with extensions to the Object Lens system, the analysis also suggests how other kinds of systems, such as EDI applications, might exploit specialization hierarchies of object types to simplify the translation problem.


Orange-yellow cactus-pear fruits from Egypt, called shameia variety, were collected at the same ripening stage from different regions to evaluate selected chemical properties and to study the rheological behavior of their pulps. The results obtained showed that there were differences between the pulp characteristics, which may be due to environmental effects. The fruits showed pulp ratios between 41.53% to 49.63%. All pulps had low acidity and high pH values ranging between 0.049% to 0.057% and 6.00 to 6.20, respectively. The rheological data obtained indicated that the flow behavior of all pulps was nonNewtonian besides exerting pseudoplastic behavior. Thixotropy values were 4.13 to 19.30 Pa s -1 ; yield stress reached 2.26 N m -2 at 20oC.


Most large lexical resources have been developed with language interpretation in mind and can not be used directly for generation. We present a rich large-scale lexical base for generation, constructed by merging various linguistic resources. Our approach meets the needs of language generation systems by providing the facilities for mapping from semantic concepts to verb/sense pairs, for identifying the valid subcategorization forms for a given verb sense, and for representing alternations for paraphrasing power. Information from diierent resources enriches and constrains each other, so the nal result is complete as well as accurate. We show by example how this lexical base can be intergrated into a generation package and how it simpliies development process while improving system performance.


$EVWUDFW— In geographical ad hoc routing, each node has to be equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS). This requirement is quite realistic today as such devices are inexpensive and can provide reasonable precision. In this work, we are interested in the optimization of the geographical routing protocol, LAR (LocationAided Routing) [1]. LAR is an on-demand routing protocol using geographical location information to limit the area for discovering a new route to a smaller "request zone". Instead of flooding the route requests into the whole network, only nodes in the request zone will forward them. Thus, the routing overhead is widely reduced. In this paper, we compare some optimization of LAR. The proposed optimizations use alternative definitions of request zone by intermediate nodes. The simulation results show that these algorithms lead to an improvement in terms of routing overhead.


Scarce studies have focused on the cognitive profile of chronic alcoholic men after long-term abstinence. Thus, we examined neuropsychological differences between long-term abstinent alcoholics for an average of 3.2 years (n = 40, LTAA; age = 45.55 ± 8.99) and matched for socio-demographic variables with non-alcoholic controls (n = 39; age = 42.05 ± 11.33). To this aim, we employed a neuropsychological assessment battery covered relevant cognitive domains: IQ, memory, attention, executive functions and empathy. LTAA presented deficits in abstract reasoning, speed processing, sustained attention, working and long-term memory (verbal and visuospatial), cognitive flexibility, inhibition and planning. Although our results must be interpreted with caution because of the cross-sectional nature of our study, it may offer a broader knowledge and understanding of alcohol-related socio-cognitive deficits after long-term abstinence. These deficits might entail risk factors for relapse in alcohol consumption, as they may interfere with recording therapeutic advice and internalizing the verbal material presented in rehabilitation programs. In turn, these impair the global efficacy of alcohol-relapse prevention programs. Hence, this knowledge could be applicable in guiding the development of early coadjutant treatments.


The current study examined hooking up experiences through event-level analyses, including the connections involving alcohol use, the extent of physical contact, and postevaluations of the hookup event. Participants were 828 college students (67.0% female). Of students who reported hooking up sometime within the past year (54.8%), chi-square analyses revealed that they were more likely to have been drinking when they met their partners the night of the hookup. Females who were drinking beforehand and females who met their partners that night were more likely to feel discontent with their hookup decisions. Among participants who consumed alcohol prior to their last hookup, a notable 30.7% of females and 27.9% of males indicated that they would likely not have hooked up with their partners had alcohol not been involved. Further, 34.4% of females and 27.9% of males indicated that they would not have gone as far physically if they had not been drinking. Among participants who reported both drinking beforehand and hooking up with unfamiliar partners, greater number of drinks consumed was associated with more advanced sexual behaviors. The current findings highlight the potential risks associated with alcohol use in the hooking up culture.


Gradient-corrected (BP86) and hybrid (M06-L) density functional calculations were used to study the relative stability of cis and trans-dichloro X-chelated benzylidene ruthenium complexes (X = O, S, Se, N, P). Calculations in the gas phase differed from experimental results, predicting the trans-dichloro configuration as being more stable in every case. The addition of Poisson-Boltzmann (PBF) continuum approximation (dichloromethane) corrected the disagreement and afforded energies consistent with experimental results. Novel N, Se, and P chelated ruthenium olefin metathesis complexes were synthesized to evaluate calculation predictions. These findings reinforce the importance of including solvent corrections in DFT calculations of ruthenium metathesis catalysts and predict that stronger sigma donors as chelating atoms tend to electronically promote the unusual and less active cis-dichloro configuration.


As a part of systematic investigation of biologically active compound, new azo dye ligand N-(4, 6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-yl)-4-((2-hydroxynaphthalen-1-yl) diazenyl) benzene sulfonamide has been synthesized by diazotization of 4-amino-N-(4, 6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-yl) benzenesulfonamide and coupled with coupling compound, naphthalen-2-ol. A new series of Ni (II), Cu (II), and Zn (II) complexes derived from this azo dye ligand (L) were synthesized. The structures of the ligand and metal complexes were confirmed by spectroscopic studies (elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR and mass spectra). The azo dye and its complexes have been screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activities against some bacterial stains and fungal strains by disc diffusion method. The results showed that, the presence of metal causes more inhibition. The anthelmentic activity of the ligand and its complexes against adult Indian earthworms, Pheretima postuma are also investigated.


We investigated the frequency, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical characteristics of tubal involvement in uterine serous carcinoma (USC) and aimed to clarify the relationship between "serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC)" and USC in these cases. Cases of USC with complete tubal examination were prospectively collected and reviewed for the presence of tubal involvement. Immunohistochemical analysis for p53 and WT1 was performed on the endometrial and tubal tumor in cases with tubal involvement. Of 161 USC cases (pure USC or a component of a mixed carcinoma or a carcinosarcoma), 32 (20%) showed tubal involvement (unilateral: n=19; bilateral: n=13). The uterine tumors in cases with tubal involvement showed a trend toward increased likelihood of deep myometrial and lymphovascular invasion (LVI) compared with those without tubal involvement. The tubal fimbriae were involved in 15/32 cases. Tubal involvement was mucosal in 30/32 cases, mural in 14/32, serosal in 5/32, invasive in 22/32, and there was LVI in the tube in 13/32. STIC-like features were seen in 17/32 cases (7 as the only pattern of involvement, 9 with associated invasive carcinoma, and 5 with LVI). Immunostaining showed complete concordance of p53 and WT1 between the endometrial and tubal tumors in 26/32 cases, the majority being WT1 negative or only focally positive (19/26), and all exhibiting mutation-type p53 staining. On the basis of the histologic and immunohistochemical features, the tubal tumor was considered to represent metastatic USC in 26/32 cases, most likely metastatic USC in 2/32 cases, an independent tubal primary tumor in 3/32 cases, and to be of uncertain origin in the 1 remaining case. STIC-like lesions were considered to represent metastatic USC in 12/17 cases, most likely metastatic USC in 2/17 cases, an independent tubal primary in 2/17 cases, and of uncertain origin in the 1 remaining case. Tubal involvement, including STIC-like lesions, is seen in one fifth of USC when the tubes are examined in their entirety. The tubal involvement is metastatic in the vast majority of cases. Immunohistochemical studies assist, in most cases, in confirming the metastatic nature of the tubal disease. Consideration should be given to completely examining the fallopian tubes in apparent stage I or II USCs, as this will result in upstaging in a significant minority of cases.


Over the centuries, Chinese people have consumed soybeans in various forms of traditional fermented soybean foods. Sufu ( Furu ), a cheese-like product originating in China, is one of the most popular fermented soybean foods in China, and is becoming popular in Chinese shops all over the world. It is made by fungal solid-state fermentation of tofu followed by salting and ripening in dressing mixture containing various ingredients. Several types of sufu can be distinguished according to processing method or colour and flavour.High levels of surviving but inactive bacterial endospores and concomitant high numbers of culturable mesophilic aerobic bacteria were found in all process stages of sufu production as well as in commercial sufu. Most samples contained only low levels ( 3 cfu/g) of Bacillus cereus , whereas no Enterobacteriaceae were detectable in any of the commercial and experimental sufu products. From a microbiological safety point of view, sufu products are stable and safe when they are produced under the conventional conditions.Phylogenetic relations based on sequencing of genomic DNA-its-1-4 regions of collected fungal starters and of relevant control strains indicate that the genera Mucor , Actinomucor and Rhizopus form distinct and homogeneous clusters. Most Mucor and Actinomucor spp., especially Actinomucor elegans (the most frequently used starter) cannot grow well over 30°C. Rhizopus oligosporus has similar growth and enzyme production abilities as A. elegans and could thus offer an alternative for the latter during the hot summer season.NaCl strongly affects the changes of microflora, textural properties and the hydrolysis of protein and lipid in sufu. Low-salt sufu (7-8% salt content) is qualified to be termed "finished product" after only 45 d of ripening, which takes more than 3 months for conventional red sufu with over 11% salt content. However, sufu will spoil during the ripening stage at salt contents of 5% or lower. SDS-PAGE profiles showed that after 60 d of ripening, all protein subunits had disappeared in sufu with 8% salt content, which indicates that most proteins were degraded into peptides and amino acids. Consequently, a large amount of free amino acids, notably glutamic acid, were found in matured sufu.


A novel solution algorithm for capacitor placement and real-time control in real large-scale unbalanced distribution systems is evaluated and implemented to determine the number, locations, sizes, types and control schemes of capacitors to be placed on large-scale unbalanced distribution systems. A detailed numerical study regarding the solution algorithm in large scale unbalanced distribution systems is undertaken. Promising numerical results on both 292 bus and 394 bus real unbalanced distribution systems containing unbalanced loads and phasing and various types of transformers are presented, The computational performance for the capacitor control problem under load variations is encouraging.


To better understand the impact of Xylella fastidiosa on the urban environment and the potential for ornamental hosts to serve as reservoirs for agronomically important diseases caused by the bacteria, a survey project was initiated to document and characterize strains of the bacteria harbored in landscape plants. Targeted sampling of 122 landscape species either symptomatic for bacterial scorch or testing positive for X. fastidiosa by ELISA in 2003 was performed. Of the 830 samples, 321 tested positive by ELISA (representing 77 of the 122 species tested). X. fastidiosa was also detected in 23 species by PCR-amplification using X. fastidiosa specific primers. Twenty-seven isolates from 13 host species were obtained from samples testing positive by ELISA. Isolates from plants not previously reported as hosts in southern California urban environments included mulberry, heavenly bamboo, magnolia, day lily, western redbud, jacaranda and peach. Genetic characterization of these isolates by 16S-23S rDNA sequencing distributed these isolates amongst previously characterized strain groups: almond leaf scorch (crape myrtle, ornamental plum, liquidambar, gingko, olive), Pierce's disease (magnolia, peach, western redbud), mulberry leaf scorch (mulberry, heavenly bamboo), and oleander leaf scorch (magnolia, jacaranda, day lily). The role of some X. fastidiosa strains in their ability to cause disease is presently being tested by fulfilling Koch's postulates in glasshouse experiments. The data collected from this study strongly suggest that X. fastidiosa is causing a number of scorch diseases in the urban landscape, and that strains of agronomic importance may be harbored in this environment. INTRODUCTION Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) is a xylem-limited, insect-vectored, plant pathogen that can cause severe damage to a wide range of host plants. Diseases caused by this pathogen include Pierce's disease of grapevine (PD), oleander leaf scorch (OLS) and almond leaf scorch (ALS). In 2003, a survey of landscape plants in five urban locations in southern California was initiated to document the incidence of the Xf infection in landscape ornamental hosts and to characterize strains existing in these hosts that may prove a threat to landscape ornamentals or crops of agronomic importance. Two hundred twenty one samples (29%) representing 48 species tested positive by ELISA. Ten isolates of Xf were obtained from eight plant species (Fatsia japonica, Ginkgo biloba, Lagerstroemia indica, Liquidambar styraciflua, Morus alba, Nandina domestica, Olea europea, and Prunus cerasfiera) not previously described as hosts of X. fastidiosa in southern California. Based upon the results of the first year, targeted sampling of host species testing positive by ELISA was performed primarily in the Riverside and Redlands areas in order to obtain additional isolates for characterization. To prove the role of Xf in causing disease in previously identified hosts, test plants were inoculated in glasshouse experiments to fulfill Koch's postulates for these isolates, and to determine if they were able to cause disease in grapevine and oleander. OBJECTIVES 1. Use laboratory methods to identify landscape host species that are infected with X. fastidiosa. 2. Secure isolates from these hosts to document infection and provide material for genetic characterization of the X. fastidiosa strain(s) involved. 3. Genetically characterize the strains of pathogen in landscape plant species. 4. Confirm pathogenic infection through inoculation studies with specific isolates. 5. Test ability of new strains to infect agricultural crops including grape, olive, and almond. RESULTS Objective 1 In 2004, 830 samples from 122 landscape plant species were collected. Sampling focused on plant species that were symptomatic or had tested positive by ELISA in 2003 surveys. Three hundred twenty one samples (39%), tested positive by ELISA. At least one sample from 77 of the 122 species tested was positive by ELISA (63%). Attempts to isolate the


We describe a recently developed corpus annotation scheme for evaluating parsers that avoids shortcomings of current methods. The scheme encodes grammatical relations between heads and dependents, and has been used to mark up a new public-domain corpus of naturally occurring English text. We show how the corpus can be used to evaluate the accuracy of a robust parser, and relate the corpus to extant resources.


A single application of various hepatocarcinogens to rats results in the formation of islands of enzyme-deficient liver cells, which are mainly irreversible and very probably represent the first cellular stage involved in the process of liver cancer formation. Comparison of the island-size distributions obtained for different carcinogens indicated that proliferation is a common property of islands that is independent of the inducing carcinogen and does not need any further presence of carcinogen or other stimulating factors. Toxic doses resulted in all cases in an enhanced island size. The number of islands induced by a single dose of carcinogen was enhanced by a prior partial hepatectomy only in the case of the dialkylnitrosamines, dimethylnitrosamine, and diethylnitrosamine. Dose-response relationships measured with diethylnitrosamine, the carcinogen with the lowest toxicity as compared with the carcinogenic action, indicated that island formation is due to a one-hit process, i.e., that one specific alteration in the target cell is responsible for the precancerous transformation. These kinetics and the low probability of transformation might indicate that the crucial hit is scored at the genetic level. The irreversible action of carcinogen (memory effect) and the influence of time on cancer formation (time effect) are discussed in terms of induction and proliferation of irreversible cell populations serving as precursor of the cancer cell. The number of specific alterations (hits) involved in the development of the malignant cancer cell is also briefly discussed.


This paper investigates the revenue-expenditure relationship in context of central and general category states in India. In particular the analysis is pertaining to the time period, 1973-2011. Unit root test in the presence of structural breaks is employed to determine the order of integration and accordingly co integration and causality tests are applied to determine inter temporal relationship between revenue and expenditure streams. The key findings are as follows: Firstly, there exists an institutional separation between expenditure and revenue streams at the Central Government level implying the tendency towards permanent deficit finance. Secondly, in majority of the States, tax and spend hypothesis has been upheld in case of own revenue and expenditure indicating that the size of the government at the state level is determined by the resource supply and not by expenditure demand. Thirdly, In case of relationship between Central transfers and expenditure, in most of the poorer states there is causality from Central transfers to expenditure and vice versa in the better off States. Prima facie, from the results it is striking that this study refutes the prevailing wisdom that States are fiscally profligate and call for a discussion whether to empower states with further fiscal responsibilities? Given the existing dynamics of spending there is a scope for rationalizing Central Government expenditure and a greater accommodation for states in the development spending as states understand priorities well and being closer to their constituents they could foster effective spending and better public service delivery.


Recently, there is increasing use of edible and biodegradable films and packaging that are both environmentally friendly and functional for storage and market distribution. Fresh-cut 'Fuji' apples, harvested in an organic farm, were treated, using a spraying technique, with three new edible coatings based on Aloe vera gel (AVG—40% v/w) and in combination with natural additives: lemon essential oil (LEO—1% v/w) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC—0.1% v/w) and compared with untreated sample (CTR), the physicochemical and sensory characteristics and the proximate compounds were evaluated. During cold storage, weight loss, soluble solids content, and color of uncoated slices were reduced, while softening, ripening, browning, and acidity were accelerated. In contrast, the AVG/HPMC treatment significantly delayed the above parameters related to post-harvest quality loss, while the AVG/LEO treatment delayed the browning processes, maintaining an excellent color during cold storage. Concerning proximate compounds, the treatments did not alter their concentration in the fruit tissues. Sensory analyses revealed no detrimental effect on taste, aroma, or flavor. Our data evidenced the positive effect of Aloe vera gel in combination with LEO and HPMC on fresh-cut apple quality as an innovative and sustainable technique to maintain fresh-cut apple quality.


While competitive intelligence places networks at the heart of its approach to strategic management and organizational information, current literature pays little attention to a part of the use of these networks aiming to capture information outside of the organization or to massive changes in the information practices of digital networks. This paper proposes an approach to the integration of these networks in building an intelligence strategy and to the detection and management of some of their members, known as "facilitating agents." The paper also addresses the gathering of information on these networks through non-standard profiles, not as a simple process of monitoring these networks but as a form of care-taking.


Borrichia aborescens (L.) DC. is a salt-tolerant perennial herb that is common on small islands in the central Bahamas. Two morphotypes are present: one with densely pubescent leaves and one with glabrous leaves. I conducted surveys in three archipelagos to document the geographical distribution of pubescence in this species and to infer the underlying mechanisms. B. aborescens was also grown from seed in a greenhouse. The pubescent form of B. aborescens was relatively more abundant on small islands than on nearby large 'mainland' islands. In two of the three archipelagoes, pubescence increased with distance on small islands. The pubescent form was relatively more abundant on small islands exposed to the open ocean compared to small islands that were protected by mainland islands or reefs on all sides. On a large mainland island, the pubescent form decreased in relative abundance inland from the coast. B. aborescens cultivated in a greenhouse revealed the effect of a genetic factor on the expression of pubescence. The observed patterns of variation are consistent with a physiological explanation for the adaptive benefit of pubescence. Trichomes may prevent physical blockage of the stomata by accumulation of salt in areas near breaking waves and salt spray.


This paper presents a control scheme for an induction motor drive which consists of a compensator, neural network identification (NNI), and neural network load torque estimator (NNLTE) based on the conventional proportional-integral controller. The NNI is a two-layer neural network which uses a projection algorithm to estimate the parameters of the induction motor and to regulate the gain of the compensator such that the response of the induction motor follows that of the nominal plant. The NNLTE is a two-layer neural network which uses the steepest descent algorithm to estimate the load disturbance and forward feed, resulting in equivalent control such that the speed response of the induction motor is robust against the load disturbance. Computer simulations and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed control scheme can obtain a robust speed control.


Action Fraud reported 50 million pounds was lost to romance fraud in 2018, a 27% increase on the previous year, despite an increase in publicity and guidance surrounding the issue. Romance fraud is an ever-increasing issue, and the statistics highlight the need for a proactive, adaptable, and bespoke approach to assist online dating platforms in combatting the problem, providing targeted awareness to customers while improving the user experience of dating platforms. Currently, there is no effective approach for increasing user awareness and providing real-time intervention on romance fraud. Existing methods on the platform focus on identifying, preventing, and stopping threat actors with technological measures rather than educating potential victims. This paper discusses the existing state of romance fraud and proposes a solution to mitigate the problems by developing a targeted awareness approach. The solution can be adopted by online dating platforms for early identification and timely intervention. It includes bespoke advisory messages to be provided to the user and risk categorisation criteria as well as workflows and prototypes to assist platforms with implementation. The results from the primary research clearly support the objectives showing that timely intervention helps to mitigate against fraud, decreasing the likelihood of it occurring. This approach offers demonstrable improvements to dating platforms.


The objectives of this investigation are the studies on the effect of copper ion on photolytic degradation of ethylenediaminetertraaceticacid (EDTA), the effect of EDTA on electrolytic recovery of copper as well as the introduction of a novel combined photolytic and electrolytic cell system for simultaneous recovery of copper and the degradation of EDTA. In this experimental study, a photolytic cell, an electrochemical system, and a combined photolytic - electrochemical (photoelectrolysis) system with and without an activated carbon cathode were used. Analysis was carried out using atomic absorption spectroscopy, and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results show that a single electrochemical cell can be used to recover copper (82.1% after 9 hours) without achieving complete mineralization of EDTA by anodic oxidation (49.9 % after 9 hours). On the other hand a single photolytic cell can achieve 99.9% degradation of EDTA after 9 hours at pH 3.5 but leaves copper in solution. However, a combined photoelectrolytic system using an activated carbon concentrator cathode achieves a rapid simultaneous degradation of EDTA and recovery of copper. The amount of degradation of EDTA was 99.9% while recovery of copper was 98.8% after 9 hours.


Aims. In this study, the main goal is to understand the molecular cloud core collapse through the stages of first and second hydrostatic core formation. We investigate the properties of Larsons first and second cores following the evolution of the molecular cloud core until the formation of Larson's cores. We expand these collapse studies for the first time to span a wide range of initial cloud masses from 0.5 to 100 M⊙.
Methods. Understanding the complexity of the numerous physical processes involved in the very early stages of star formation requires detailed thermodynamical modelling in terms of radiation transport and phase transitions. For this we used a realistic gas equation of state via a density- and temperature-dependent adiabatic index and mean molecular weight to model the phase transitions. We used a grey treatment of radiative transfer coupled with hydrodynamics to simulate Larsons collapse in spherical symmetry.
Results. We reveal a dependence of a variety of first core properties on the initial cloud mass. The first core radius and mass increase from the low-mass to intermediate-mass regime and decrease from the intermediate-mass to high-mass regime. The lifetime of first cores strongly decreases towards the intermediate- and high-mass regimes.
Conclusions. Our studies show the presence of a transition region in the intermediate-mass regime. Low-mass protostars tend to evolve through two distinct stages of formation that are related to the first and second hydrostatic cores. In contrast, in the high-mass star formation regime, collapsing cloud cores rapidly evolve through the first collapse phase and essentially immediately form Larson's second cores.


Abstract Energy economic management based on economic principles and demand response (DR) is one of the significant issues for consumers and Distribution Companies (DisCos). In this paper, presents energy management for hybrid energy system is in connecting mode to the network and based on short-term optimal scheduling in a house. The presented modelling, minimizing the operation cost of resources and electricity bought from network in the Real-Time Price (RTP) plan. Modelling of the objective function based on mixed integral linear programs (MILP) has been implemented and the result shows that management of sources and demand in short-term scheduling causes minimizing operation cost in aspects as financial, technical and electricity buying in RTP plan.


Introduction: Thyroid hormone (TH) metabolism is mediated by deiodinases, a family of thioredoxin fold-containing enzymes that remove iodide from thyroxine and its derivatives. The coordinated action of deiodinases allows target cells to modulate rapidly their own TH availability in response to different cues. Type 3 deiodinase (D3), the physiological inactivator of TH, is an oncofetal protein whose re-activation in adult tissues has been correlated with hyperproliferative states and with human solid tumors. This suggests a link between deiodinase-mediated TH metabolism and carcinogenesis. Areas covered: D3 is overexpressed in basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and sustains the proliferation of BCC cells. It exerts a similar function in colon cancer, which suggests that attenuating the TH signal is part of a widespread neoplastic program. Here, recent advances in D3 research, particularly as regards the role of D3 regulation and function in solid tumors are reviewed. Expert opinion: Given the vast array of TH's physiological and cellular functions, unraveling TH metabolism in cancer biology is a promising challenge for the development of new therapies for human cancer.


By utilizing the voltage contrast mode observed in a scanning electron microscope, the authors have fabricated equipment which they call auto-calibrated potential map drawing equipment (AP-MADE). This equipment can be used to observe the two-dimensional potential distribution on a semiconductor device surface and to draw its equipotential curves. Therefore, it can be used as a semiconductor device analyzer. Utilizing the APMADE, the transfer characteristics of plasma-coupled devices are analyzed in detail and its best asymmetric structure is pointed out quantitatively.


This paper considers the evolution of the problem of scientific rationality from Kant through Carnap to Kuhn. I argue for a relativized and historicized version of the original Kantian conception of scientific a priori principles and examine the way in which these principles change and develop across revolutionary paradigm shifts. The distinctively philosophical enterprise of reflecting upon and contextualizing such principles is then seen to play a key role in making possible rational intersubjective communication between otherwise incommensurable paradigms.


The recourse to individual or group identity in the articulation and pursuit of interests by social forces is a major facet of Nigeria's political process. This is manifested by the increasing deployment of hitherto suppressed identities of ethnicity, religion and regionalism among others, in the contest for political and economic power by various contending forces. It will appear that the resurgence of identity politics is a worldwide phenomenon, and therefore, not restricted to Nigeria. However, the specificity of the Nigerian milieu is conspicuously manifested in various junctures of the national political trajectory, whenever spoils of power are up for grabs. Accordingly, it is hereby contended that identity politics as presently manifested in Nigeria is much a tool for political contest and bargain as it is for personal aggrandizement by the contending political forces. The way out is the total democratization of the national political economy and the attendant institutionalisation of political and economic contest based on popular-democratic grounds as opposed to the prevailing ethno-religious and other primordial grounds. Keywords: identity politics, contending forces, political trajectory, aggrandisement DOI : 10.7176/PPAR/9-12-07 Publication date: December 31 st 2019


In this paper, a novel multi-channel mechanical failure signal classification method based on augmented quaternion singular spectrum analysis (AQSSA) is proposed. Quaternion is used to couple four channels signal, and the quaternion trajectory matrixes can be developed as augmented quaternion matrix by using the feature of the quaternion. The singular value sequence including characteristic information can be extracted by quaternion singular value decomposition (QSVD) of the augmented trajectory matrix using its covariance matrix. The method of traditional singular spectrum analysis (SSA) can only analyze the single channel signal, however, AQSSA can fully use the correlation of multi-channel and reduce the loss of the effective information. Additionally, the main singular values are defined by some methods such as difference spectrum aimed, which has the limitation that major singular values can't be obtained under the high background noise. Thus, a concept of partial mean of singular value sequence is proposed, and it can be set as the standard of evaluating the trend of singular value sequence. In order to testify the performance of the proposed method, the numerical simulation signal and the fault vibration signal of bearing are simultaneously adopted to verify its effectiveness. The results indicate that the effectiveness of mechanical fault classification by the proposed method is superior to the traditional SSA method and the method of permutation entropy.


PI3KCA gene amplification and mutations have been identified in many types of tumors, suggesting the dysregulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR axis plays pivotal roles in tumorigenesis and development. Reported here is the discovery of HM5016699 as a potent, reversible ATP-competitive PI3K/mTOR dual inhibitor for treatment of cancer. HM5016699 showed potent kinase inhibition with IC50 of 0.01, 0.206, 0.052, 0.051 and 0.059 µM on PI3Kα, β, γ, Δ and mTOR, respectively. It demonstrated high selectivity on PI3K family and mTOR over a panel of 274 kinases. Of the 67 tumor cell lines screened from lung, colon, breast, ovarian, and other tumor types, we found that the tumor cells with HER2 gene amplification or PTEN loss tended to be sensitive to HM5016699, while the tumor cells harboring PI3KCA mutations and wild type Ras/Raf were mostly sensitive to the compound. HM5016699 could also show p-Erk inhibition and apoptotic induction at higher concentrations in the tumor cells harboring Ras/Raf mutations, suggesting it might bring benefits to patients carrying Ras/Raf mutations in the clinic. Consistent with in vitro studies, HM5016699 exhibited dose dependent tumor growth inhibition on multiple human xenografts models. It was found that the tumors with PIK3CA mutation or PTEN deletion were highly sensitive to HM5016699 with ED50s ranging from 0.6 to 1.8 mg/kg in U87MG (pTEN null), SKOV3 (H1047) and H1975 (G118D), whereas in tumors with Ras/Raf mutations, such as DLD-1(G13D), A549 (G12S) and HT-29(V600E), its ED50s were from 3.0 to 15.0 mg/kg. The decreased phosphorylation of AKT and S6 was observed in the tumor xenograft tissues treated with HM5016699, which was well-correlated with compound exposure. Therefore, we concluded that HM5016699 demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo activity through acting on PI3K/mTOR pathway. HM5016699 exhibited a favorable pharmacokinetic profile and acceptable safety window in rats. The pre-clinical study results suggest that HM5016699 could be a promising anti-cancer agent. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4499. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-4499


Cellular RNAs often colocalize with cytoplasmic, membrane-less ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules enriched for RNA processing enzymes, termed processing bodies (PBs). Here, we track the dynamic localization of individual miRNAs, mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) to PBs using intracellular single-molecule fluorescence microscopy. We find that unused miRNAs stably bind to PBs, whereas functional miRNAs, repressed mRNAs and lncRNAs both transiently and stably localize within either the core or periphery of PBs, albeit to different extents. Consequently, translation potential and positioning of cis-regulatory elements significantly impact PB-localization dynamics of mRNAs. Using computational modeling and supporting experimental approaches we show that phase separation into large PBs attenuates mRNA silencing, suggesting that physiological mRNA turnover predominantly occurs outside of PBs. Instead, our data support a role for PBs in sequestering unused miRNAs to regulate their surveillance and provides a framework for investigating the dynamic assembly of RNP granules by phase separation at single-molecule resolution.


Thousands of equipments of the wireless network and the mobile devices are widely used and the demand of dynamic spectrum resources is significantly growing. How to maximize the social utility in modern technique becomes an important issue. In this paper, we propose a genetic algorithm based approach to allocate the power spectrum dynamically. The objective is to maximize the sum of individual Shannon utilities with the background interference and cross talk consideration. Compared to the approach in [4], experimental result shows that our approach obtains a better result within an acceptable amount of run time.


ABSTRACT Social distancing including lockdowns are acceptable measures to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. In this cross sectional study, we surveyed the impact of these measurements on sexual behavior and pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PrEP) use among MSM. A digital questionnaire was distributed via social media and geographically based meeting applications after the first lockdown (March–April 2020). 1194 MSM responded, 91.8% were HIV negative, 19.4% of them used PrEP regularly, and 8.2% were people living with HIV (PLWH). Median age was 34.5 years. 54.4% reported that they kept strictly social distancing guidelines. Low education, hazardous sexual behavior, moderate/severe, and depression predicted low compliance with social distancing guidelines. 66.7% reported a significant decrease in the number of casual sex partners. 55% of those who took PrEP reduced their PrEP intake. Many of the PLWH and PrEP users reduced their medical follow-up. In light of the continuous outbreak and the risk of further outbreaks in the future consideration should be given to provide continuing access to HIV and sexual health clinics.


Metastasis is responsible for 90% of human cancer mortality, yet it remains a challenge to model human cancer metastasis in vivo. Here we describe mouse models of high-grade serous ovarian cancer, also known as high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), the most common and deadliest human ovarian cancer type. Mice genetically engineered to harbor Dicer1 and Pten inactivation and mutant p53 robustly replicate the peritoneal metastases of human HGSC with complete penetrance. Arising from the fallopian tube, tumors spread to the ovary and metastasize throughout the pelvic and peritoneal cavities, invariably inducing hemorrhagic ascites. Widespread and abundant peritoneal metastases ultimately cause mouse deaths (100%). Besides the phenotypic and histopathological similarities, mouse HGSCs also display marked chromosomal instability, impaired DNA repair, and chemosensitivity. Faithfully recapitulating the clinical metastases as well as molecular and genomic features of human HGSC, this murine model will be valuable for elucidating the mechanisms underlying the development and progression of metastatic ovarian cancer and also for evaluating potential therapies.


Purpose Classic studies mainly of European-American families broadly identify the benefits of parental strictness combined with parental warmth. However, current research tends to identify parental warmth as positive for adjustment, even without parental strictness. In addition, less is known about the relationship between parenting and adjustment beyond adolescence. The present study examined warmth and strictness and its relationship with self, sexism, and stimulation values. Self-esteem, academic-professional self-concept, benevolent sexism, and stimulation values were used to capture adjustment. Patients and Methods Participants (n = 1125) were adolescents and adult children of middle-age from Spain. The statistical analyses used were correlation analysis and multiple linear regression. Results In general, the relationship between parenting and adjustment was found to have a similar pattern for adolescent and middle-aged adult children, although more marked in adolescents. Parental warmth and strictness were predictors of adjustment, but in a different direction. Specifically, parental warmth positively predicted academic-professional self-concept and self-esteem, whereas parental strictness was detrimental as a predictor of higher benevolent sexism. Conclusion Overall, the present findings suggest that an effective socialization during the socialization years and even beyond can be positively predicted by parental warmth, whereas parental strictness might be unnecessary or even detrimental.


The popularity of bi-level optimization (BO) in deep learning has spurred a growing interest in studying gradient-based BO algorithms. However, existing algorithms involve two coupled learning rates that can be affected by approximation errors when computing hypergradients, making careful fine-tuning necessary to ensure fast convergence. To alleviate this issue, we investigate the use of recently proposed adaptive step-size methods, namely stochastic line search (SLS) and stochastic Polyak step size (SPS), for computing both the upper and lower-level learning rates. First, we revisit the use of SLS and SPS in single-level optimization without the additional interpolation condition that is typically assumed in prior works. For such settings, we investigate new variants of SLS and SPS that improve upon existing suggestions in the literature and are simpler to implement. Importantly, these two variants can be seen as special instances of general family of methods with an envelope-type step-size. This unified envelope strategy allows for the extension of the algorithms and their convergence guarantees to BO settings. Finally, our extensive experiments demonstrate that the new algorithms, which are available in both SGD and Adam versions, can find large learning rates with minimal tuning and converge faster than corresponding vanilla SGD or Adam BO algorithms that require fine-tuning.


Introduction: There are lot of challenges involved in studying the multiorgan manifestations and sequelae of acute Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), that too in face of fighting the pandemic, which has led to fall short of resources and restriction in activities for prevention of transmission. The literature on persisting manifestations and sequelae of COVID-19 in the patients recovered in the first and second waves is scarce. Aim: To study the presenting and persistent manifestations after acute COVID-19 illness in first and second wave among Nursing Officers (NOs) of a tertiary care medical institute. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India, from 15th May 2021 to 31st October 2021. Total 103 nurses, who had recovered after testing positive for COVID-19 in the first and second wave were followed-up for persisting symptoms. Statistical analysis was done using Pearson Chi-square test. Results: Total of 103 subjects were recruited in the study, 36 in the first wave and 67 in the second. Fever (72.82%), body ache (67.96%) and fatigue (66.99%) were found to be the most common presenting manifestations in the study subjects having mild to moderate COVID-19 infection. Body ache (p-value=0.048), headache (p-value=0.044) and fatigue (p-value=0.025) were seen in significantly more subjects in second wave as compared to first wave. Persistence of symptoms for more than 4 weeks was seen in 45.63% subjects. There was no statistically significant difference between persisting symptoms in the two waves, except sleep disturbances which were found to be persisting in significantly more subjects in second wave than those in first wave. Conclusion: The data of current study will add to the literature of presenting signs and sequelae of coronavirus, and pave the way for more elaborate and multispecialty studies for enhanced understanding of the disease.


Fundamentals Developments in Ion Mobility: Theory, Instrumentation, and Applications, Thomas Wyttenbach, Jennifer Gidden, and Michael T. Bowers Electronic State Chromatography: Ion Mobility of Atomic Cations and Their Electronic States, Peter B. Armentrout Measuring Ion Mobility in a Gas Jet Formed by Adiabatic Expansion, Gokhan Baykut, Oliver von Halem, Jochen Franzen, and Oliver Raether Instrumentation Development of an Ion-Mobility-Capable Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer to Examine Protein Conformation in the Gas Phase, Bryan McCullough, Peter A. Faull, and Perdita Barran The Differential Mobility Analyzer (DMA): Adding a True Mobility Dimension to a Preexisting API-MS, Juan Fernandez de la Mora A Cryogenic-Temperature Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometer for Improved Ion Mobility Resolution, Jody C. May and David H. Russell Multiplexed Ion Mobility Spectrometry and Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry, Glenn A. Harris, Mark Kwasnik, and Facundo M. Fernandez IMS/MS Applied to Direct Ionization Using the Atmospheric Solids Analysis Probe Method, Charles N. McEwen, Hilary Major, Martin Green, Kevin Giles, and Sarah Trimpin Total Solvent-Free Analysis, Charge Remote Fragmentation, and Structures of Highly Charged Laserspray Ions Using IMS-MS, Ellen D. Inutan, Emmanuelle Claude, and Sarah Trimpin Applications Snapshot, Conformation, and Bulk Fragmentation: Characterization of Polymeric Architectures Using ESI-IMS-MS, Sarah Trimpin, David E. Clemmer, and Barbara S. Larsen Metabolomics by Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry, Kimberly Kaplan and Herbert H. Hill Jr. Ion Mobility MALDI Mass Spectrometry and Its Applications, Amina S. Woods, J. Albert Schultz, and Shelley N. Jackson Profiling and Imaging of Tissues by Imaging Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry, Whitney B. Ridenour and Richard M. Caprioli Deciphering Carbohydrate Structures by IMS-MS: Applications to Biological Features Related to Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biology, Sergey Y. Vakhrushev and Jasna Peter-Katalinic Structural Characterization of Oligomer-Aggregates of ss-Amyloid Polypeptide Using Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry, Marius-Ionut Iurascu, Claudia Cozma, James Langridge, Nick Tomczyk, Michael Desor, and Michael Przybylski The Conformational Landscape of Biomolecules in Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry, Jody C. May and John A. McLean Index


To elucidate the spatiotemporal phylodynamics, dispersion and evolutionary processes underlying the emergence of novel porcine parvovirus 2 (PPV2), PPV3 and PPV4 species, we analysed all available complete capsid genes, together with ours, obtained in Europe. Bayesian phylogeography indicates that Romania (PPV2 and PPV4) and Croatia (PPV3) are the most likely ancestral areas from which PPVs have subsequently spread to other European countries and regions. The timescale of our reconstruction supported a relatively recent history of the currently circulating novel PPV species (1920s to 1980s) in the domestic or sylvatic host. While PPV2 strains exhibited a large genetic exchange characterized by significant recombination and gene flow between distinct regions and hosts, PPV3 and PPV4 showed a diversification reflected by the accumulation of geographically structured polymorphisms. The RNA-like evolutionary rates detected inter- and intrahost recombination and the positive selection sites provided evidence that the PPV2-4 capsid gene plays a prominent role in host adaptation.


American management education, which accounts for a fourth of U.S. bachelor's and master's degrees awarded, is in the midst of a sweeping reconsideration of its governing premises. This article examines the criticisms of business schools and argues that the thirty-year dominance of the academic model over the professional model offers a basic explanation for these shortcomings. It further discusses the role of the business schools' accrediting agency, AACSB, in fostering needed change, identifies special opportunities for metropolitan business schools created by this reform environment, and proposes an action agenda for exploiting these opportunities.


A compact planar multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antenna system of four elements with similar radiation characteristics is proposed for the whole 2.4-GHz WLAN band. It consists of two proximity-coupled fed microstrip square ring patch antennas and two lambda/4 microstrip slot antennas of the same linear polarization. These two types of antennas are printed on different sides of the substrate to reduce mutual coupling. With a novel isolation structure etched on the ground plane of the FR4 substrate, high port isolation (below -25 dB) and good MIMO performance are achieved. The overall lateral size of the MIMO system is only 0.64lambda times 0.48A, and good impedance matching (S11 < 10 dB) is achieved across the operating band for all the antenna elements. Full spherical radiation patterns are measured for the MIMO system, showing similar radiation characteristics, and the gains are above 2.3 dB across the operating band.


On-wafer RF and IV characterizations are performed for the first time on power GaN high electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) under pulse and continuous conditions at different temperatures. These measurements give an in-depth understanding of self-heating effects and allow one to investigate the possibility of improving heat-dissipation mechanisms. A pulsed load-pull system that measures the power gain of the device-under-test (DUT) under pulsed RF and bias condition has been developed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the reflected power at the DUT is measured under the pulse mode of operation. Additionally, an improved small-signal model for power GaN HEMTs that incorporates the geometry of the device is developed at various temperatures. This is the basis for empirical large-signal modeling.


The rapid rise and evolution of aquaculture over the past few decades has led to both optimism and apprehension regarding the sector's sustainability and role to food security. Comprised predominantly of small-scale operators, the sector is recognised to play a critical role in supporting livelihoods, contributing to food security and alleviating poverty. However, the ability to achieve these potential benefits is not a given and the transformation of communities adopting aquaculture can be positive, neutral or negative. Assessing the sectors contribution in a systematic way has been an uphill challenge due to the typical part-time and dynamic temporal engagement of operators as well as the complex socio-ecological factors that mediate aquaculture development outcomes. Moreover, the multidimensional concept of food security presents challenges to the assessment of the role of aquaculture to food security. The aim of this thesis is to explore and assess the role of small-scale aquaculture to food security. This thesis adopts a mixed methods approach and is guided by the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach framework. This thesis's contribution to the debate focuses on Malawi, a country where the potential for aquaculture development is reported considerable. Drawing on mixed qualitative and quantitative methods, overall findings reveal that small-scale aquaculture contributes marginally but positively to local livelihoods through complex pathways to improved food security, improved well-being and reduced vulnerability. However, the type of aquaculture development, gender relations and cultural norms shape development outcomes. Significant social, environmental and economic constraints are also identified that negatively affect the sustainability of aquaculture. Findings presented have important policy implications and make novel contributions to the on-going debate concerning aquaculture's future and its role to food security.


This study aims to examine the relationship between sleep duration and body mass index (BMI) in two South Korean samples: children and adolescents. Nationally representative secondary data (i.e., the Korean Survey on the Obesity of Youth and Children) collected in 2009 were analyzed (N = 2,499 for children and N = 7,431 for adolescents). Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance were implemented to examine BMI levels depending on sleep duration. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to explore the existence of a strong association between sleep duration and BMI z score after controlling for other factors. In both samples, sleep length had a reverse linear relationship with BMI z score, and shorter sleep duration was significantly associated with an increase in BMI z score. School nurses should take note of the strong association between sleep duration and BMI for more effective weight control in children and adolescence.


Low sidelobes are important and essential in all SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) images, regardless of the imaging mode, for fewer artificial targets. For strip-map mode all targets overlap in frequency, which is convenient to suppress sidelobes. However, weighting requires total overlap in the time or frequency domain, which a sliding spotlight signal could not satisfy. Furthermore, the wavelength cannot be regarded as a constant value under the condition of a wideband chirp signal, which leads to the variation of the Doppler bandwidth along with the range frequency. In this article, an azimuth weighting method is proposed that considers the influence of a wideband based on a two-step algorithm. The computer simulation is given to verify the presented method.


At cognitive level, preliminary idea of nation and existence of a national group is essential to have a sense of national identity. For adolescents, evolving concept of social groups and possible affiliations with them starts during this period. Factors such as process of socialisation, schooling and exposure to media determines how an adolescent conceptualises the nation and reflects attachmentwith it. As adolescents are considered as the future citizens, this study aimed at tapping their perceptual understanding of nation. This study was conducted with volunteer adolescent students from senior secondary sections of four Delhi based school. They wrote essays on Indian national identity organised according to cue questions, given beforehand. Based on legibility and content appropriateness, 130 essays were selected for further grounded theory analysis. National identity was defined using references from native cultural constituents, such as norms, heritage, traditions, customs, and social values. Identity derived from nation was positive and filled with pride when contents were about patriotism and multiculturalism. However, sharp comments on perceived inadequacy of government were supported with appalling cases of disharmony. The expressions elucidating national identity were described more on the basis of external events than self-references. A possible inference may be drawn that adolescents' experienceswere in formative stage and hence were restricted to terminologies acquired from popular media.


In this paper, we address the problem of high-dimensional k-means clustering in a large-scale setting, i.e. for datasets that comprise a large number of items. Sketching techniques have already been used to deal with this "large-scale" issue, by compressing the whole dataset into a single vector of random nonlinear generalized moments from which the $k$ centroids are then retrieved efficiently. However, this approach usually scales quadratically with the dimension; to cope with high-dimensional datasets, we show how to use fast structured random matrices to compute the sketching operator efficiently. This yields significant speed-ups and memory savings for high-dimensional data, while the clustering results are shown to be much more stable, both on artificial and real datasets.


Over the last 5 decades, total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has evolved to a very common and successful procedure. Currently, TKA is being performed through limited surgical approaches and innovative technology that include rapid recovery programs with early mobilization and return to normal daily activities. Despite all the successful advances achieved, it is estimated that 20% of patients are still not happy with their final outcome. In an effort to improve the clinical results in this group of patients, surgeons and engineers continue to design newer implants implanted with reproducible innovative technology. This current issue of Technique in Orthopedics focuses on these newer TKA designs and techniques. Some of the new design changes pursue a more anatomic design with an emphasis on better size and shape, along with anatomic positioning of the components. Other newer designs place an emphasis on replicating knee kinematics with either retention of both cruciate ligaments or substituting for both cruciates with a dual cam—postdesign. Another approach to replicate knee kinematics is more conforming articular designs, such as the medial congruent knee or lateral pivot knee. A new look at mobile bearing designs is also presented, as it has been shown to be a clinically successful prosthesis. Beyond the nuances of the various implant designs, 2 main issues remain significant factors to the long-term durability of TKA: polyethylene wear and component fixation. Improvements in polyethylene wear with antioxidation preparation have led to more wear resistance and potentially greater longevity. Although cement fixation has been considered the gold standard, the role of cementless fixation in TKA has been gaining interest. Beyond designing new implants, the benefits of these new TKA designs have to be evaluated in the world of value-based medicine and alternate payment plans. Introducing new innovative technologies, such as robotic surgery, adds an additional cost to the procedure but has the potential to improve accuracy and impacting the ultimate outcome. In closing, we have invited these authors, who have had an impact on TKA, to contribute to this issue of Techniques in Orthopedics and provide their thoughts as we search for the Holy Grail in TKA design. Hopefully, you will find this issue on TKA insightful.


The process of enhancement consists of three component elements: de-noising based on wavelet, image fusion, contrast enhancement based on multi-scale wavelet transform. Because the wavelet transform has character of multi-scale, multi-resolution analysis and time-domain localize, image enhancement methods based on wavelet transform can improve conventional methods of image enhancement. This paper presents a method for accurate pedestrian tracking for infrared image sequences. It makes use of the wavelet entropy features of pedestrian regions based on the dual-tree complex wavelet transform and is based on a particle filter framework. The method constructs the regions of interest's (ROI) representation using wavelet entropy, so as to hurdle the disadvantage of insufficient information when only intensity feature is considered. Furthermore, it correctly updates the above mentioned pedestrian representation model which is embedded in the particle filter framework and propagate sample distributions over time. The experimental results show that the method is effective.


The field of medical science is going to take advantage of Machine learning. It has increased dramatically over the last decade. Nowadays, you can see other innovations used in medical sciences, such as machine learning and deep learning. They can help to diagnose the illness or cause. It can also aid in the healing process by keeping notes. At a similar pace, an upper hand has been provided to the physicians for image processing by incorporating computers. Bone fractures are normal these days, and the identification of fractures is a critical part of orthopedic X-ray imaging. The automated technique lets the doctor quickly begin medical treatment. Using Machine Learning and CNN (Convolutional Neural Network), we suggest a new deep learning model perform bone diagnosis by eliminating discontinuity followed by segmentation of the image in a system that detects bone fractures. It overcomes the shortcomings of the previous approach that operates only on examination of the texture features. The proposed deep learning modified ResNeXt model performs much better than the state-of arts.


Coexisting orthoamphiboles (high Al-Na gedrites and low AI-Na anthophyllites) from the Post Pond Volcanics, Vermont, display a variety of textures that are interpreted to be equilibrium growth textures. These textures include: (1) discrete grains; (2) bladed intergrowths; (3) patchy intergrowths; (4) overgrowths; and (5) lamellar intergrowths with lamellae parallel to (120). Coexisting orthoamphiboles display exsolution parallel to (010); exsolution is much more pronounced in gedrite than in anthophyllite, which suggests that the solvus is steeper on the anthophyllite limb. The solvus is defined by discontinuities in the amount of Si, Allv, Alvl, and Na(A) in the orthoamphiboles, which can be described as gaps in the edenite (NaAl~ D Si) and tschermakite (AIVIAPV~MgSi) substitutions. The width of the solvus is a function of Fe/(Fe+Mg), with Fe-rich samples showing the widest gap. Distribution of elements between anthophyllite and gedrite is systematic, with gedrite enriched in Allv, Alvl, Fe2+, Na, Ti, Ca, and Mn and anthophyllite enriched in Si and Mg. The composition limits of orthoamphiboles at this metamorphic grade are controlled by coexistence with phases more enriched in certain elements: the most Si-rich orthoamphiboles coexist with quartz, the most AI-rich with cordierite or staurolite, the most Fe-rich with gamet, the most Mg-rich with talc, chlorite or cordierite, the most Ca-rich with hornblende, and the most Ti-rich with ilmenite or rutile. Evaluation of published orthoamphibole analyses reveals that the crest of the solvus probably lies at approximately 600:!::25°C.


Methane was generated from cotton waste, while considering its pollution in textile industries. Cotton waste in- cludes solid content and is rich in cellulose having a moisture content of 8.8%. It is difficult to form slurry as the waste float on water and hence an experimental set up has been made like a batch type digester and experiments were conducted with a different proposition of water with or without addition of seeding materials. It was found that cotton waste with 5 to 7.5% seeding material like cow dung or pig dung at temperatures of 30 to 35 0 C generated bio gas continuously, with a reasonably high yield from the tenth day after feeding. The gas contained rich methane and was tested in a single cylinder diesel engine as a dual fuel had the tendency to save 60% of diesel.


This document describes a technological application for the field of economics. It aims to fix part of the economical wandering between the 'real' and 'nominal' value of money in order to increase standardization in reporting, as well as to allow for more meaningful comparisons in time and easier understanding by readers. The proposal made here is for a fix at sovereign currency levels rather than at international levels. That is, it works at the level of, for example, the US dollar, Australian dollar, British pound or Euro, but does not propose an international currency.


The influence of p-type modulation doping on self-organized quantum-dot lasers is studied using a quasiequilibrium model that includes the multi-discrete energy levels and the energy levels of the wetting layer. Calculations are presented showing that laser performance can be greatly enhanced through p-doping and that, in contrast to planar quantum-well lasers, the p-doping requirements are moderate. Optimized cavity lengths are found, and the threshold temperature and modulation characteristics are determined for these cavity lengths. The model shows that close energy spacing of the discrete hole levels can severely limit the modulation response, as suggested previously, and that this effect is countered through creation of an excess hole concentration using p-type doping. Good agreement is obtained with the modulation response reported in recent experiments for undoped quantum-dot active regions. The calculations suggest that bandwidths greater than 30 GHz can be obtained with sufficient p-doping. A reduction in the inhomogeneous broadening might increase the laser speed to over 60 GHz.


It will be convenient to divide the operations upon the rectum and anus into three groups, viz.: anal, rectal, and abdominal, for the purposes of classification from the anesthetic standpoint. The first group includes all the surgery of the anal canal, e.g., fistulae, fissures, piles, and abscess; the second refers to the rectum from the perineal aspect, e.g., prolapse and perineal excision; whilst the third group includes the operations of perineo-abdominal excision and colostomy. These three groups lend themselves to widely differing methods of anesthesia, which may be divided into three groups, (a) Spinal, (b) General, and (c) Local, or their combination.


Article history: Received: 12.10.2016 Revised: 13.02.2017 Accepted: 15.02.2017 Abstract Self-regulation provides an innovative frame to investigate learners' activity in learning a language, and it is vital to give a comprehensive picture of learners' strategic behaviour. Therefore, self-regulated language learning is in the focus of this paper from both theoretical and empirical perspectives. Since there is a strong link between strategic language learning and self-regulation, the components of young learners' selfregulating capacity is understood as determinants of their strategic thinking. In the empirical research presented in this paper I discuss the extent of young learners' self-regulation in learning vocabulary and illustrate age-related differences.


Properties of TEM-mode propagation are examined for a wire or a strip of finite width immersed in a uniform infinite dielectric above a ground plane. Characteristic impedance, power flow, and conductor and dielectric losses are considered. The discussion of the TEM mode is in the complex plane.


Working capital management (WCM) is widely found to have a great impact on firm's profitability. Due to the lack of access in long term capital market, small medium enterprise (SMEs) gives more emphasis on effective use of WCM to ensure profitability. Especially in Bangladesh, SMEs are also highly dependent on WCM. In this regard, this paper aims to examine the relationship between working capital management and profitability of SMEs from Bangladesh. Data for relevant variables were found for 10 SMEs in the textile industry for the period of 2012-2017. Through a detailed literature review, several important variables related to working capital management i.e. Accounts Receivables (AR), Accounts Payables (AP), Inventory (INV), Cash Conversion Cycle (CCC) and others were identified and tested against profitability measures i.e. Return on Asset (ROA) and Gross Operating Profit (GOP). Econometric analysis found significant relationship between INV and ROA but no significant relationship with GOP. Size of the firm as proxy by sales recorded, Asset Turnover and Financial Debt were found to be significant with both GOP and ROA. Current ratio (CR) had a significant relationship with GOP but not the ROA. These findings have strong implications on proper WCM for the Bangladeshi SMEs to sustain their profitability over the course of their business operations.


This paper presents a path following controller for a quadrotor UAV experiencing a single rotor failure. A smooth, dynamic feedback control law is proposed that allows the quadrotor to follow both closed and non-closed embedded curves while maintaining a desired velocity profile along the path when one out of four motors is completely disabled due to failure. The nonlinear model of the quadrotor is transformed into a partially linear model by a coordinate and feedback transformation. A path following controller is designed for transformed system that guarantees invariance of the path. The uncontrolled nonlinear portion of the dynamics (internal dynamics) are shown to be bounded.


Objective Kisspeptin 1 might reflect increased androgen level in polycystic ovarian syndrome instead of other markers. Study Design. A case control study was performed in Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital from 1st of July 2016 to 1st of July 2017; it involved 87 women divided into two groups: 44 women diagnosed as PCOS, 22 women with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and 22 women with BMI < 25 kg/m2, and another 43 women without PCOS, 22 women with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and 21 women with BMI < 25 kg/m2. Hormonal, metabolic profiles, and hirsutism scores, as well as serum kisspeptin level, were assessed by using Human Kisspeptin 1(KISS-1) ELISA Kit. The blood samples between days 2 and 5 of menstrual cycle were drawn by an disposable sterile syringe and collected in EDTA containing tubes (as anticoagulant), and the hormonal profile was measured using a biotech ELISA reader. Result Serum level of kisspeptin was significantly higher in PCOS compared to control (322.4 vs. 235.3 ng/L, respectively). There was no significant difference in age, BMI, and parity between control and PCOS; the frequency of hirsutism, acne, elevated LH, and increased free testosterone (fTT) were significantly higher in PCOS compared to control. Kisspeptin shows a direct significant correlation with hirsutism and fTT (r = 0.648, 0.238, respectively). In ROC analysis, kisspeptin had AUC (95% CI) = 0.874 (0.785–0.935) for predicting PCOS. Conclusion Kisspeptin levels might be used as a marker for hyperandrogenemia in polycystic ovarian syndrome.


This work investigates the use of feedback controller augmentation of driver inputs to achieve a desired vehicle performance. The vehicle performance is specified as a Reference Model. The driver maintains nominal control of the vehicle by direct actuation of the front steering inputs. The controller then determines the appropriate rear steer inputs necessary for tracking the reference model. As a consequence the driver is able to specify, within limits, the type of handling behavior required of the vehicle. A strategy based on yaw rate control is presented. An appropriate vehicle model is developed and a polynomial pole placement technique is used to control the vehicle. To account for vehicle model changes due to variations in forward velocity, a continuous time Recursive Least Squares approach is examined for on-line identification and adaptive control. The strategy and control designs are implemented experimentally on the Illinois Roadway Simulator (IRS), a scale vehicle testbed for vehicle dynamics and controls. Results and limitations are discussed.


The replacement of the peritoneal dialysis was performed in 18 cases of persistant peritonitis in patients treated with Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis. This method brought the first sterility of the culture of the dialysate within 48 hours after surgery in 83.3% of the cases.


The organizational culture of an educational institution should be considered because of the management of a higher education institution, the real relations and positions existing in it. It is characterized by levels of differentiation (division of responsibilities) and ensuring the cohesion of staff (integration), and thus cooperation focused on achieving the goal, which is an indicator of the successful functioning of the educational institution. Organizational culture is defined as a set of norms, values, rules, models of communication that are shared by all employees.
The level of development of organizational culture is crucial in ensuring the quality of the educational institution, its efficiency. Solving the problem of developing the organizational culture of the educational institution is an important task of its head.
The system-forming factor of university culture can be the core idea or principle, which is mandatory for all research and teaching staff and is manifested in all aspects of the life of the educational institution.
At the present stage of development of educational organizations there are distortions - in the hierarchy of goals the leading place is given not to a specific goal, but to receive income from educational activities. This trend is manifested not only in the activities of private educational institutions, but also public ones.
Personnel policy of medical institutions of higher education is to focus the way of such educational institutions on ethical goals, liberalism and tolerance, great humanity, the pursuit of justice, independence and individuality, the correct principle of their action and counteraction, self-affirmation, building hierarchy, power, obtaining information and communication, the desire to form social contacts, free expression of opinion, the social benefits of labor and democracy, the desire for security.
Ethics is based on norms and principles that determine the behavior of ordinary employees and leaders of educational organizations in relation to society, other organizations, and groups, in relations with each other. Ethical norms outline common values and ethical rules that must be followed by employees of higher education institutions. Ethics rules are created to define the goals of educational organizations, their description, create a favorable ethical atmosphere and outline ethical recommendations in decision-making. Self-respecting educational organizations, that is, for which public opinion about decency and honesty is more important than the desire to increase their profits, define and oblige their employees to adhere to ethical norms.
Many educational organizations that value their name now have codes of ethics and guidelines. It helps employees and managers to act and make decisions based on the analysis of ethical standards. Today, the manager in his daily work systematically deals not only with compliance with laws governing educational activities, but also with compliance with ethical requirements that increase the level of responsibility to the environment and society, which is especially important for medical institutions of higher education.


Despite efforts made by the Kenyan government to rehabilitate and train former street youth, their numbers have risen alarmingly. Reports in the media focus on those who joined the national youth service (NYS) in 2003 but no known study has followed them out to ascertain the effectiveness and appropriateness of the program which was meant to help their transition to work, since they graduated in 2005. This study investigated rehabilitation and vocational education with regard to transition to work and job retention of trained former street youth. Participants included two employers, one administrator, one coordinator of skills training, and 46 of the former street youth. The findings indicated that courses offered at the NYS were relevant to the labor market hence, aided the youth in securing jobs. It was found that beyond technical skills, one needs personal skills to maintain the secured employment. The study recommended that recruitment be pegged on institutional training facilities, capacity, and that the content of training be continually reviewed to tailor it to market needs. Institutions also need to explore linkages with various employment agencies.