Forty-One male pilots from ROC Air Force Tactical Training Wings participated in the study. The flying experience of participants was between 354 and 220 hours with an average of 292 hours. Participants were randomly divided into two groups, 21 pilots in the experimental group, and 20 pilots in control group. Two ADM mnemonic methods, SHOR and DESIDE, that had been previously been assessed by instructor pilots as being the most applicable and having the potential to significantly improve the quality of military pilots' decision-making formed the basis of the ADM training programs. Overall, results from both the simulator-based trials (which assessed the product of the ADM training programme) and the pencil-and-paper tests (which assessed the process that the trainees applied) showed gains being made in both Situation Assessment and Risk Management skills attributable to the decision making training course. The results strongly suggest that such a short training course can be effective in terms of improving pilots' skill in situation assessment and risk management. However, these gains were at the cost of a decreased speed of responding. Nevertheless, it is suggested that a simple, short, cost-effective training program in the appropriate use of ADM mnemonic methods may ultimately produce significant gains in flight safety. Such a course may easily be integrated into current CRM or simulator-based training programs.


Modern UV-lithography is searching for new highly parallel writing concepts. Spatial light modulation (SLM) with optical MEMS devices offers such possibilities. Special emphasis must be put on the ability of SLM devices to handle ultraviolet light (UV). For deep UV laser mask writing (248 nm) we designed and fabricated a 2048/spl times/512 pixel optical MEMS with individually addressable aluminum micro-mirrors. In order to support the small volume production and the qualification of such devices we have set up test and characterization systems for failure analysis and lifetime testing. In order to ensure a high quality of the optical MEMS e.g. a map of the device under test is needed showing the exact position of defective pixels together with the type of defect like not responding, always deflected, wrong spring constant, or poorly reflecting surface. Additionally information on the flatness of the mirrors and on their lifetime under UV pulsed illumination are required. This paper describes the concepts of our test systems, their experimental realization, and results obtained for our optical MEMS chips.


Flood is a natural disaster almost occurs in every part of the world. India has longest rivers passing from high population density area. During monsoon season, cyclone flood are usually happen in India. Many conditions can result in a flood: hurricanes, overtopped levees, outdated or clogged drainage systems and rapid accumulation of rainfall. Mahi is one of the longest river passing from Gujarat. This river crosses three states Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat & Rajasthan .Originating from Madhya Pradesh & meets at Gulf of Khambhat. Anand district is one of the regions from which Mahi river is passing. In this paper we are selecting Anand taluka as study area .Villages near to Mahi river are highly vulnerable for flooding during monsoon season. In this paper using remote sensing & GIS we are preparing base maps for villages highly vulnerable for flood. Considering parameters like Population density, Resources available and elevation of geographical area is divided in High risk zone, Moderate risk zone, and low risk zone villages.


The Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility (SSRF) is a 3rd generation light source with 3.5GeV in energy Its magnet lattice is composed of 20 DBA cells resulting in a ring that is about 10nm⋅rad in emittance and 396 meter in circumference. It provides 10 straight sections of 7.24 meter and 10 straight sections of 5.0 meter for the inclusion of insertion devices, injection components and RF cavities. In this paper, the results of linear optics design and dynamic aperture study are presented.


Low-carbon travel has emerged as a topic of interest in tourism and academia. Studies have offered reasons tourists may engage in low-carbon travel; however, these explanations are scattered throughout the literature and have yet to be integrated into low-carbon travel motivation and constraint constructs. This study develops a low-carbon travel motivation scale (LCTMS) and a low-carbon travel constraint scale (LCTCS). It performs reliability and validity testing to measure the low-carbon travel motives and obstacles. Items were collected primarily by literature review, and, then, by surveys of 382 tourists from low-carbon travel destinations and 390 from non-low-carbon travel destinations. Through a rigorous scale development process, this study identifies six dimensions of the LCTMS (environmental protection, experience-seeking, escape or social connection, industry pleas and measures for environmental protection, low-carbon products, and green transportation) and four dimensions of the LCTCS (intrapersonal constraints, interpersonal constraints, structural constraints, and the not a travel option).


Prediabetes comprising Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG) and Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) represents an intermediate stage of altered glucose metabolism between normal glucose levels and type 2 diabetes mellitus and is associated with an increased risk for the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. There is considerable evidence that glucose levels lower than those meeting the current definition of prediabetes may also be associated with similar risks particularly in high‐risk individuals. Prediabetes is often unrecognized and therefore constitutes a major public health concern suggesting the need for earlier intervention than is currently recommended. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


In 1970 Jorge Edwards was sent by socialist Chilean President Salvador Allende as his country's first envoy to break the diplomatic blockade that had sealed Cuba for over a decade. His arrival coincided with the turning point of the revolution, when Castro began to repress the very intellectuals he once courted. In Kafkaesque detail, Edwards records the four explosive months he spent in Havana trying to open a Chilean embassy and his disenchantment with the revolution. His stay culminated in the arrest of his friend Heberto Padillathe first imprisonment of a well-known writer by the regimefor giving Edwards a "negative view of the revolution. " In a menacing midnight political debate with Edwards immediately after Padilla's arrest, Castro argued that in this phase of the revolution, bourgeois writers would no longer have "anything to do in Cuba. " Castro accused Edwards of "conduct hostile to the revolution" and declared him "persona non grata. " The winner of the Cervantes prizethe Spanish language equivalent to the Nobel Prize for literatureJorge Edwards' memoir splendidly recounts this time and the wrath of Castro.


Dynamic Positioning(DP) system maintains ship's position (fixed location or predetermined track) exclusively by means of CPPs and thrusters. To generate the control input adequate to various situation an integrated controller for CPPs and thrusters is required. The integrated controller is composed of a thrust calculation algorithm and a thrust allocation algorithm. The thrust calculation algorithm generates thrusts in the surge direction and the sway direction from the desired forward and lateral speed and generates a moment about the yaw axis from desired heading angle. The thrust allocation algorithm allocates the generated thrusts and moment to each CPP and thruster. Computer simulations are executed to confirm the effectiveness of the suggested controller.


Background/Aims: To determine breast cancer metastasis suppressor 1 (BRMS1) expression in breast cancers and the efficacy of BRMS1 as a prognostic indicator, BRMS1 expression was assessed in two sets of breast cancer tissues. Methods: Epithelial cells from 36 frozen samples of breast cancers and corresponding normal breast were collected by laser capture microdissection and assessed for BRMS1 by quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. BRMS1 was also evaluated by immunohistochemistry in a tissue microarray of 209 breast cancers and correlated with indicators of prognosis [estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), ErbB2, p53, p27Kip1, Bcl2 and Ki-67]. Results: BRMS1 mRNA and protein were higher in 94 and 81%, respectively, of breast cancers than in corresponding normal epithelium. BRMS1 localization was predominantly nuclear, but 60–70% of cancers also exhibited cytoplasmic immunostaining. Breast cancers with lower nuclear than cytoplasmic BRMS1 (nuclear score – cytoplasmic score ≤0; 11% of cancers) had lower ER, lower PR and higher Ki-67 expression. There was also a trend toward poorer overall survival in this group of cancers, but this was only of borderline significance (p = 0.073). In Cox proportional hazards models, loss of nuclear BRMS1 was not a significant predictor of overall survival. Conclusions: Loss of nuclear BRMS1 was associated with ER-negative cancers and a high rate of proliferation, but was not an independent indicator of prognosis.


We propose an extension of WFQ, called BWFQ, to reduce the computation time and guarantee the QoS performances as well. Simplifications of the WFQ algorithm may degrade the performance of all sessions. Instead, BWFQ dynamically aggregates packets in advance and performs scheduling in unit of block. Block size is controlled by a parameter called granule. Each session has a granule setting in accordance with its delay tolerance. Delay-insensitive sessions form larger data blocks so that a lot of computation time at scheduling is saved. BWFQ also employs block-preemptive scheduling to allow interruption of the block on service and switch to another one with the highest priority. Performance isolation guarantees a delay upper bound for every session that is independent of others' granule settings. Simulation results show that BWFQ is capable of saving a great amount of computation, especially under traffic congestion.


This paper presents a policy-based radio resource management model for decision sharing between the network and the mobile terminals in the context of composite networks. One of the key issues discussed in this paper is the distribution of Radio Resource Management (RRM) decision making between the network and the mobile terminal. IEEE P1900.4 standard project proposes a policy-based radio resource usage scheme, where the decision-making is shared between the network and the mobile terminals. The network orients the mobile terminals decisions by sending rules and constraints. Mobile terminals choose the most appropriate action to their own Quality of service (QoS) objectives, within the action set allowed by the network. We define detailed scenarios illustrating this model. In addition, we propose a model where policies are chosen automatically act aiding to the variations of the environment conditions and the operator strategy. For this purpose, we define a policy database that stores the different environment configurations matched with the appropriate policies. Environment configurations are first classified. Then for each environment class an optimization algorithm finds the policy that fits the operator objectives.


A series of high-ranking international meetings in 2013 drew global public attention to the dramatic collapse of elephant and rhinoceros populations in Africa, and to the connections between wildlife crime, terrorist networks and organised crime. On 12 February 2014 an international conference in London again took up the question of how to combat poaching and the illegal wildlife trade. Successful action against wildlife crime is a cross-cutting global task encompassing wildlife conservation, fighting organised crime, promotion of rule of law, and economic cooperation, as well as resolute anti-corruption and involvement of local populations along the entire supply chain. Countermeasures will function only if people in Africa enjoy economically viable livelihoods and benefit from wildlife protection. In Asia, renouncing ivory as a status symbol and dropping superstitions about the medical value of rhinoceros products demands a change of mindset.


The Asymptotic Numerical Method (ANM) is a family of
algorithms for path following problems, where each step is based on the
computation of truncated vector series [1]. The Vector Pade approximants were
introduced in the ANM to improve the domain of validity of vector series and to
reduce the number of steps needed to obtain the entire solution path [1,2]. In
this paper and in the framework of the ANM, we define and build a new type of
Vector Pade approximant from a truncated vector series by extending the
definition of the Pade approximant of a scalar series without any
orthonormalization procedure. By this way, we define a new class of Vector Pade
approximants which can be used to extend the domain of validity in the ANM
algorithms. There is a connection between this type of Vector Pade approximant
and Vector Pade type approximant introduced in [3, 4]. We show also that the
Vector Pade approximants introduced in the previous works [1,2], are special
cases of this class. Applications in 2D nonlinear elasticity are presented.


This chapter reviews some of Stan Falkow's early contributions relative to the molecular nature, conjugative transfer, and replication of extrachromosomal elements, particularly R factors. The earliest equilibrium gradients were run in a Spinco model E analytical ultracentrifuge which occupied nearly half of a wall in the laboratory and was affectionately referred to as the "gray elephant"; later, for both isopycnic and rate zonal gradients, the Spinco model L preparative ultracentrifuge was used. Initial studies in which the Freifelder technique was used involved an examination of the labeled DNA after 60 min of mating in neutral sucrose gradients. Pulse-chase experiments were used to demonstrate that the ccc form of the plasmid was the end product of replication and that the oc form was an intermediate in the replication process and not just the result of nicking of some of the ccc molecules during cell lysis and manipulation. The kinetics of appearance of cell structure-bound (presumably membrane-bound) DNA were very similar to the kinetics of appearance of 44S (linear monomer) DNA seen in the pulse-chase experiments. As the membrane-bound fraction decreased, there was a sequential appearance of free 50S (oc) and then 75S (ccc) molecules. It had been shown that a bacterial strain harboring a sex factor or an R factor could not accept the same, or a closely related, extrachromosomal element by conjugation, a phenomenon referred to as "exclusion," "entry exclusion," or "surface exclusion".


Faculty of Electrical Engineering since 12 years is a leader on Westpomeranian University of Technology, Szczecin in terms of cooperation conducted by research-educational sections with the industrial environment in the growth of practical skills of its students and future graduates. Continuously both degree programs and apprenticeship programs are adjusted to the needs and expectations of the local labor market. This paper is based on Electrical Engineering Faculty Apprenticeship Book, described here model is being implemented on Faculty of Electrical Engineering.


Background
Social media (SoMe) has evolved to be a platform that patients use to seek information prior to an operation, share perioperative and postoperative journey, provide feedback, offer and receive support. While there have been studies looking at the evolution and usage of SoMe either by patients or by surgeons, there is no information that compares its usefulness for both the groups.

Objectives
The aim of this study was to compare the views held by patients and surgeons, towards social media and other internet resources, in relation to one commonly performed operation.

Methods
A questionnaire was presented to 648 consecutive patients who attended our clinic for consultation for primary breast augmentation from September 2016 to March 2017. A separate "surgeons' questionnaire" was answered by a group of 138 plastic surgeons who were either practicing in branches of our clinic, had previously done fellowship with us, or were visiting the clinic.

Results
All 138 surgeons and 648 patients responded to the questionnaire. A total of 91.4% of patients said that they had searched online and 61.4% had searched in specific online groups for information on breast augmentation. A total of 88.9% of patients had specifically looked for clinical photographs and 73.4% had specifically searched for unfavorable reviews of the surgeon. In comparison, 72.5% of surgeons thought that over three quarters of patients gather information on the internet while only 20.3% thought that over three quarters of patients use social media for their information. A total of 52.5% of surgeons have noticed that social media affected their consultations.

Conclusions
With the evolution of the internet and related technologies, the role of social media continues to increase. While patients use social media to help make their decisions, it is not the only deciding factor. Surgeons appear to underestimate the patients' use of these technologies. There is concern in each group about the amount of inaccurate information on the social media. This underlines the importance of providing factual, evidence-based information to the patients.


This research aims at evaluating teaching speaking skills through genre-based approach and proposing a recommendation for further research and development programs to create a better teaching and learning model based on the research findings. This evaluation research for an ongoing program uses some data sources, such as (1) 2006 Curriculum of English Profession Program which has orientation to genre-based approach, (2) syllabus, (3) lesson plan, (4) course book, (5) observation to teaching and learning process of speaking classes, (6) in-depth interviewing with lecturers and students, and (7) verification to curriculum makers and course book authors. The result of this research shows that the teaching speaking skills through genrebased approach at Language Center of Muhammadiyah University of Surakarta has not been optimal yet. It is caused by some factors, i.e. (1) the lecturers often find difficulties to understand some concepts of genres along with the methods to teach them to their students, (2) the topics discussed in class are less attractive, (3) the students' exercises in class are less varied, and (4) the students have not been motivated optimally to practice speaking skills so that only few students who are active in class. Based on the result of this research, the researcher recommends the policy makers of Language Center to conduct a workshop on quality improvement of teaching speaking skills through genre-based approach for the lecturers. The researcher also recommends


Nursing handover is indispensable and functions as information exchange, care
continuity, and fundamental to safe and quality patient care. Healthcare workers
conduct shift handover in a background of chaotic, frequent interruptions, within
limited timeframe. Healthcare workers' satisfaction on shift handover directly and
indirectly affects the patient's safety and standards of care. Aims: To explore
satisfaction on the SBAR tool for handover among healthcare workers in a private
hospital. Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Setting: A private, multispecialty
hospital (84-bed capacity). Population and Sample: Purposive sample
(n = 89) of nurses and PCAs working in all the departments participated with voluntary
participation and anonymity ensured, at 72% response rate. Data Collection:
Anonymous self-administered questionnaire (Handover Evaluation Scale) with
14-item of 7-point Likert-type scale were returned within a one-week timeframe. Data
Analysis: Descriptive statistics on demographics with frequency, percentage, mean and
standard deviations. Statistical (inferential) analyses were run on HES responses and
correlation with demographic variables. Narrative comments to open-ended questions
were analysed qualitatively by summarising key themes. Results: Healthcare workers
are found to be satisfied with SBAR for handover, with total score of 71.64 (SD = 8.81)
in the range of 14-98. Associations are discovered between certain demographics and
respondents' satisfaction. Key strengths and limitations of SBAR, and suggestions for
improvements are collected and all the above discussed pertaining to implications.
Conclusion: Healthcare workers are satisfied with the use of SBAR for handover. There
are associations between demographics with SBAR satisfaction. Key strengths,
limitations, and suggestions for improvement in relation to SBAR are discussed. (Abstract by authors)


After over 30-year deployment, IPv4 addresses are running short on supply with the growth of the Internet so dynamic. A new technology will take its place, IPv6, an evolution from IPv4 that includes virtually unlimited address space. However, it will take time to totally transit from IPv4 to IPv6. IPv6 will coexist with IPv4 for a period of time and then eventually replace IPv4. This paper studied network traffic that included information of both IPv4 and IPv6. The traffic was collected from 600 US government websites that were all reported to have Domain Name Services (DNS) and Web services accessible over IPv4 and IPv6. Cloud based, Internet distributed monitoring agents were deployed in eight geographic locations to collect data. Both feature selection algorithms, filter and wrapper, were applied to the dataset and the classification accuracy was then studied. The results showed that feature selection algorithms effectively reduced the complexity of the classification model. The results also confirmed that the reduced feature set contributed a superior classification performance over full feature set.


Forest fire is a major cause of changes in forest structure and function. Forest fires are as old as forests themselves. Forest fires are one of the major natural risks in the Uttarakhand forests. In such areas, fires occur frequently and there is a need for supranational approaches that analyze wide scenarios of factors involved. It is impossible to control nature, but is possible to map forest fire risk zone and thereby minimize the frequency of fire. Forest and wild land fire are considered vital natural processes initiating natural exercises of vegetation succession. However uncontrolled and misuse of fire can cause tremendous adverse impacts on the environment and the human society. A risk model for fire spreading is set up for Kansrao Forest Range of Rajaji National Park where Forest and wild land fires have been taking place historically, shaping landscape structure, pattern and ultimately the species composition of ecosystems both flora and fauna. It is based upon a combination of remote sensing and GIS data. In this study, Resourcesat P6 – LISS III (spatial resolution 23.5m, 4 bands (Red) (Green) (NIR) (SWIR), Topo Sheet (SOI) no.53 J/4 on scale 1:50,000 and contour interval 20 meters, ASTER 30m and Garmin 72 GPS were used. For these analyses ArcGIS and ERDAS Imagine software was used. Land use information was obtained from the satellite images in this study. In this phase the distinction of species in the forest was determined using supervised classification. The lands that have priorities in case of fire were decided by combining the moisture of the land and slope classes that were determined by conventional approaches with the satellite images. The results of the analysis were shown by reports and graphs. The test region results should be applied all over Rajaji National Park.


This paper is devoted to the proof of global existence and uniqueness results for the three-dimensional incompressible Euler equations with a particular geometrical structure. The focus is on so-called axisymmetric solutions without swirl and on helicoidal solutions. The aim is to prescribe regularity conditions on the vorticity as close as possible to those formulated in the two-dimensional setting by V.I. Yudovich.


Membrane transport of long chain fatty acids in the isolated rat adipocyte can be strongly stimulated by epinephrine (Abumrad, N. A., Perry, P. R., and Whitesell, R. R. (1985) J. Biol. Chem. 260, 9969-9971). We now report that insulin at physiological concentrations can completely block or reverse the epinephrine effect. Insulin was optimally effective at a concentration of about 0.1 nM in inhibiting transport activation by 0.3 and 3 microM epinephrine (0.1 and 1.0 microgram/ml). High concentrations of insulin (above 1 nM) were generally less effective and this was particularly true at the highest dose of epinephrine (1.0 microgram/ml). The insulin effect was shown to be on the transport process since insulin inhibited epinephrine activation of transport in both directions (influx and efflux). No effect of insulin on basal transport was observed over a wide range of concentrations (0.01-10 nM). Insulin's antagonism of transport activation by epinephrine appeared dependent on ATP metabolism since it was abolished by preincubating the cells with dinitrophenol (1 mM). Dinitrophenol, however, could not reverse the insulin effect when exposure to the hormone preceded that to dinitrophenol, consistent with an action of insulin at the transport step. The data indicate that regulation of the membrane transport of fatty acids is a potential site for insulin's action to suppress lipid mobilization.


Di-(5-hexenyl)- and di-(9-decenyl) phthalates were administered to male CD rats by gavage. The urinary metabolites retaining the phthalate moiety were identified by chromatographic and mass-spectrometric techniques. Di-(5-hexenyl) phthalate gave rise to epoxide and vicinal diol metabolites not previously seen with phthalic acid esters of saturated alcohols. Neither epoxide nor diol were detected when di-(9-decenyl) phthalate was fed. The distributions of carboxyl-terminated metabolites suggested that somewhat different pathways were followed for the two test compounds. The formation of epoxides from these unsaturated phthalate esters may have relevance to their potential toxicities. Like the metabolites of di-n-butyl phthalate, the metabolites of di-(5-hexenyl) phthalate included glucuronide conjugates; like the metabolites of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, those of di-(9-decenyl) phthalate did not.


Septation in Escherichia coli involves complex molecular mechanisms that contribute to the accuracy of bacterial division. The proto-ring, a complex made up by the FtsZ, FtsA and ZipA proteins, forms at the beginning of the process and directs the assembly of the full divisome. Central to this complex is the FtsZ protein, a GTPase able to assemble into a ring-like structure that responds to several modulatory inputs including mechanisms to position the septum at midcell. The connection with the cell wall synthesising machinery stabilizes the constriction of the cytoplasmic membrane. Although a substantial amount of evidence supports this description, many details on how individual divisome elements are structured or how they function are subjected to controversial interpretations. We discuss these discrepancies arising from incomplete data and from technical difficulties imposed by the small size of bacteria. Future work, including more powerful imaging and reconstruction technologies, will help to clarify the missing details on the architecture and function of the bacterial division machinery.


Generic health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures have been used for estimating utility value, which is then used for calculating quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). HRQoL measures may not capture many of the relevant and important non-health aspects of quality of life. The well-being of older people (WOOP) instrument was first developed in the Netherlands. This study aimed to validate this new instrument among older people in China. WOOP was first translated into simplified Chinese (for use in Mainland China) by two experienced translators. From July to August 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted on a convenience sample of 500 older people in Southwestern China. Older people who provided consent reported their demographic information and completed the simplified Chinese version of the WOOP instrument using a pencil and paper. The feasibility of WOOP was determined by the percentage of missing responses. Then, using the data without any missing responses, we examined the item response distributions, pairwise Spearman correlations, underlying factors, and known-group validity of WOOP. Among the nine items of WOOP, three had more than 10% missing responses. The response distributions of the nine items were overall good without signs of ceiling and floor effects. The correlations among the WOOP items were low. A two-factor exploratory factor analysis model suggested that the WOOP items can be categorized into either internal or external well-being items. Good known-group validity results were found. Some WOOP items may not be easily understood by a small proportion of rural residents. However, other results have suggested WOOP to be a valid instrument for measuring the well-being of the elderly in China. The availability of WOOP enables the measurement of well-being-related utility.


Highly aligned metal nanowire arrays with feature sizes approaching 10 nm are fabricated. This is made possible by the self-assembly of block copolymers (BCPs) on graphene-wrinkle arrays. Thickness-modulated BCP films confined on the wrinkled reduced graphene oxide (rGO) surface promote the strict alignment of the self-assembled BCP lamellae in the direction of the film thickness gradient.


A phylogeny of 21 haptophyte algae was inferred by maximum parsimony, neighbor‐joining, and maximum likelihood analyses of sequences of the plastid‐encoded gene, rbcL. Sequence variation in the spacer region of the RUBISCO operon was also investigated. In all the rbcL trees constructed, the haptophytes form two distinct clades: one includes the Pavlovales and the other includes the Prymnesiales, Coccosphaerales, and Isochrysidales (all sensu Parke and Green 1976. This relationship coincides with the recent taxonomic treatment splitting the division into two subclasses, the Prymnesidae and Pavlovidae ( Cavalier‐Smith 1989) or the Prymnesiophycidae and the Pavlovophycidae using botanical suffixes (  Jordan and Green 1994), or into two classes, the Patelliferea and the Pavlovea ( Cavalier‐Smith 1993). In the Prymnesiophycidae, all the coccolithophorids examined are placed in a single clade, which suggests a single origin of the coccolithophorids and the ability of coccolith formation in the haptophytes. The genus Chrysochromulina is polyphyletic. Species of Chrysochromulina with a very long haptonema and a compressed cell body (typical of species including the type C. parva Lackey) form a clade, including Imantonia, that is often classified in the Isochrysidales in the neighbor‐joining tree, whereas some species possessing a nontypical cell body and cell covering form a clade with Prymnesium and Platychrysis in all trees. It is suggested that loss of the haptonema in Imantonia and the reduction in Prymnesium and Platychrysis occurred secondarily and independently in two different lineages. Within the coccolithophorids, four clades are recognized: Pleurochrysis, Calyptrosphaera‐Cruciplacolithus‐Calcidiscus‐Umbilicosphaera, Helicosphaera, and Emiliania‐Gephyrocapsa. A non‐coccolith‐bearing haptophyte, Isochrysis, is an ingroup of the Emiliania‐Gephyrocapsa clade, suggesting its secondary loss of the ability to form a coccolith. Sequence comparison of the spacer region of RUBISCO operon supports most results obtained in the analysis of rbcL sequences. Monophyly of the Prymnesiales sensu Parke and Green is still unclear because of low (<50%) bootstrap support for this group.


Simulations of outdoor sound propagation using a time-domain approach have proved to be efficient to deal with complex situations. Indeed, the main effects on acoustic propagation can be taken into account. In particular, recent works [Dragna et al., AIAA J. 49, 1420-1428 (2011); Dragna et al., AIAA-Paper 2010-3758 (2010)] have shown that impedance of the ground surfaces and topography can be modeled efficiently in time domain. In this paper, results from an experimental campaign carried out near a railway high speed line in 2010 are compared to those obtained with a finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) solver of the linearized Euler equations. During the experiments, the topography of the site and the different surface impedances have been determined. Meteorological measurements have also been performed. A blank pistol is used to obtain impulsive signals. The different measured parameters are used as input data into the FDTD solver. Comparisons are realized in both the frequency domain, and in the time domain.


Cancer is one of the most important causes of mortality in the world after cardiovascular disease.Currently, one of the most common cancers in the gastrointestinal tract in Iran and the whole world is colorectal cancer, which is ranked third in Iranian men and ranked fourth in Iranian women. Colorectal cancer manifestations include lower gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habit, symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, obstruction, and intestinal perforation, and in rare cases upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a rare manifestation of colonic cancer but it may exist. A few case reports have been published in this regard. Our case is a transverse colon invasive adenocarcinoma with extension to the second part of the duodenum, which was referred to with the complaint of hematemesis.


Abstract This article reports on a study testing the effects of different ways of administering an opt-out consent for record linkage in a probability-based Internet panel. First, we conducted cognitive interviews to explore reactions to a draft version of the opt-out consent text. Second, we conducted a two-factor experiment to test the effects of content manipulations and mode. The results indicate that the way in which respondents were informed did not have much effect on opting out. Results from a follow-up survey on attitudes regarding privacy, confidentiality, and trust, along with knowledge questions about the process of linking, showed no evidence that presenting the opt-out consent statement makes respondents more concerned about privacy. Knowledge about the aspects of record linkage is generally not high. When looking at long-term effects of sending an opt-out consent statement, we found no evidence that this leads to higher attrition or lower participation rates.


interlobular arteries and arterioles the fibrinoid necrosis involved part or all of the circumference of the vessel wall, and in some areas replaced muscle and elastic tissue. Simonsen et al.' have described similar vascular lesions in animal homotransplants where, due to associated perivascular cellular infiltration, the changes resemble those of polyarteritis nodosa. A variable amount of perivascular cellular infiltration accompanied the fibrinoid necrosis in the human kidneys which we studied, but it was less than that described in acute homograft rejection in animals. The destructive changes in arterial elastic tissue which Dr. Porter and his colleagues illustrate resemble healed polyarteritis nodosa and suggest that previous fibrinoid necrosis may have occurred in their cases. They also observed arteriolar fibrinoid necrosis in their Case 2, but attributed it to malignant hypertensive changes present in the kidney before grafting. As, however, arteriolar fibrinoid necrosis in malignant hypertension may disappear within a few days if the bloodpressure is lowered, it is possible that the arteriolar changes in Case 2 were due to immunological damage. Scattered arteriolar fibrinoid necrosis was present in one of our cases one week after transplantation when the blood-pressure had been normal except for a slight rise on two days. In the other patient much more widespread fibrinoid necrosis accompanied severe clinical features of rejection four weeks after transplantation and progressed in a remarkable manner over the next 12 days to involve the walls of almost all intrarenal arteries and arterioles. Glomerular lesions included haemorrhagic infarction due to arteriolar occlusion and fibrinoid necrosis of part or all of the glomerular tuft. These occurred only in the patient with severe clinical rejection and accompanied widespread vascular lesions. The glomerular changes resemble those seen in florid malignant hypertension3 and in the microscopic form of polyarteritis nodosa.4 Swelling of endothelial cells in vessels and intertubular sinusoids was present a week after operation, and a further intimal change which was noted was that of heavy polymorphonuclear infiltration of the intima accompanying severe clinical rejection. Perivascular cellular infiltration was a prominent feature in the patient who did not show marked clinical evidence of rejection and in whom other vascular changes were mild. It appeared about a week after transplantation and progressed in-spite of addition of actinomycin C and prednisone to the "imuran " therapy. Vascular lesions, including intimal proliferation, endothelial swelling, and fibrinoid necrosis, preceded any clinical evidence of rejection in one patient. Such histological changes which are detectable in renal biopsy specimens may be an indication for adding such drugs as steroids and actinomycin C to the basic purine analogue therapy at an earlier stage than is usually done. In the patient in whom we did this there was an apparent improvement in the intimal changes and fibrinoid necrosis over the next week.I am, etc., PRISCILLA KINCAID-SMITH. Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne.


This research aims at exploring the effect of transformational leadership and transactional leadership on the turnover intention for directors of the Greater Amman Municipality directorates; an Analytical, descriptive method has been applied and utilised. Research population was chosen from directors of the Greater Amman Municipality departments and heads of sections, where the number of the population was 602, and a simple random sample was chosen, which equal to 274 responds , the researcher relied on questionnaires as the primary tool to collect data, 190 surveys were received back and 18 questionnaire were canceled because of the lack of their suitability for statistical analysis, this results in 172 valid questionnaires which represent 62.7% as a response rate for this study, The results find out also that there is a statistically significant impact for the transformational leadership and transactional leadership on substantial level to affect turnover intention from directors of Greater Amman Municipality department's point of view. The study concludes some points, most of them are: more research and field studies must be undertaken to identify the importance of transformational and transactional leadership in achieving Greater Amman municipality 's resent and future objectives, more attention must be paid for those directors in Greater Amman municipality who seem to have the attributes and characteristics of transformation leadership, and also those who have the ability and required skill to develop human resources in Greater Amman Municipality, giving more trainings and special workshops to build leaders and train them on modern administrative methods in order to improve their abilities, performance and encourage them to provide the best they have.


Excitation of surface-plasmon resonances of closely spaced nanometallic structures is a key technique used in nanoplasmonics to control light on subwavelength scales and generate highly confined electric-field hotspots. In this paper, we develop asymptotic approximations in the near-contact limit for the entire set of surface-plasmon modes associated with the prototypical sphere dimer geometry. Starting from the quasi-static plasmonic eigenvalue problem, we employ the method of matched asymptotic expansions between a gap region, where the boundaries are approximately paraboloidal, pole regions within the spheres and close to the gap, and a particle-scale region where the spheres appear to touch at leading order. For those modes that are strongly localised to the gap, relating the gap and pole regions gives a set of effective eigenvalue problems formulated over a half space representing one of the poles. We solve these problems using integral transforms, finding asymptotic approximations, singular in the dimensionless gap width, for the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions. In the special case of modes that are both axisymmetric and odd about the plane bisecting the gap, where matching with the outer region introduces a logarithmic dependence upon the dimensionless gap width, our analysis follows Schnitzer [Singular perturbations approach to localized surface-plasmon resonance: nearly touching metal nanospheres. Phys. Rev. B 92(23), 235428 (2015)]. We also analyse the so-called anomalous family of even modes, characterised by field distributions excluded from the gap. We demonstrate excellent agreement between our asymptotic formulae and exact calculations.


One of the major components of the Belle II trigger system is the neural network trigger. Its task is to estimate the z-Vertex particle tracks observed in the experiments drift chamber. The trigger is implemented on FPGAs to ensure exibility during operation and leverage their IO capabilities. Meanwhile the implementation has to estimate the vertex in a few hundred nanoseconds to fulfil the requirements of the experiment. A first version of that trigger was operational during the first collisions. While it was able to estimate the vertex, it had some drawbacks regarding the possible throughput and timing closure. These are the focus of this work, which modifies the original design to allow two networks running in parallel and less routing congestion. We conducted a rescheduling of multiply and accumulate which are the basic operations in such networks. While the original design tried to parallelize as much as possible, the rescheduling tries to reduce the number of parallel data transmission by reusing processing modules. This way resource consumption was reduced by 40% for DSPs. To further increase the throughput by operating an additional network in parallel, we investigated the balanced use of SRAM-LUTs and DSPs for multiply and accumulate operations. With the found balancing ratio the trigger is able to operate two neural networks in parallel on the targeted FPGA within the required latency.


A.1.2 What is a Proof? Proof of a mathematical statement consists of sequence of statements, each statement being justified with a definition or an axiom or a proposition that is previously established by the method of deduction using only the allowed logical rules. Thus, each proof is a chain of deductive arguments each of which has its premises and conclusions. Many a times, we prove a proposition directly from what is given in the proposition. But some times it is easier to prove an equivalent proposition rather than proving the proposition itself. This leads to, two ways of proving a proposition directly or indirectly and the proofs obtained are called direct proof and indirect proof and further each has three different ways of proving which is discussed below. Direct Proof It is the proof of a proposition in which we directly start the proof with what is given in the proposition. (i) Straight forward approach It is a chain of arguments which leads directly from what is given or assumed, with the help of axioms, definitions or already proved theorems, to what is to be proved using rules of logic. Consider the following example:


This paper proposes a Virtual Flux Predictive Direct Power Control (PDPC) for a five-level T-type multi-terminal Voltage Source Converter High Voltage Direct Current (VSC-HVDC) transmission system. The proposed PDPC scheme is based on the computation of the average voltage vector using a virtual flux predictive control algorithm, which allows the cancellation of active and reactive power tracking errors at each sampling period. The active and reactive power can be estimated based on the virtual flux vector that makes AC line voltage sensors not necessary. A constant converter switching frequency is achieved by employing a multilevel space vector modulation, which ensures the balance of the DC capacitor voltages of the five-level t-type converters as well. Simulation results validate the efficiency of the proposed control law, and they are compared with those given by a traditional direct power control. These results exhibit excellent transient responses during range of operating conditions.


Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (Aristichthys nobilis) are two of the four most important pond-cultured fish species inhabiting the major river basins of China. In the present study, genetic maps of silver carp and bighead carp were constructed using microsatellite and AFLP markers and a two-way pseudo-testcross strategy. To create the maps, 60 individuals were obtained from a cross of a single bighead carp (female) and a single silver carp (male). The silver carp map consisted of 271 markers (48 microsatellites and 223 AFLPs) that were assembled into 27 linkage groups, of which 22 contained at least four markers. The total length of the silver carp map was 952.2 cM, covering 82.8% of the estimated genome size. The bighead carp map consisted of 153 markers (27 microsatellites and 126 AFLPs) which were organized into 30 linkage groups, of which 19 contained at least four markers. The total length of the bighead carp map was 852.0 cM, covering 70.5% of the estimated genome size. Eighteen microsatellite markers were common to both maps. These maps will contribute to discovery of genes and genetic regions controlling traits in the two species of carp.


Current observation was obtained for adults treated on a protocol for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, which was open from 1972 to 1978, in order to determine the long-term outcome and to evaluate potential prognostic factors. Long-term survival (five + years) was seen in 32% (25/79) of patients who achieved complete remission; 16/79 remain in first remission and 2/79 are currently in second remission. Young age (less than 40) and female sex were significant prognostic factors for long-term survival, but the basis for this advantage is unclear. Further improvements in chemotherapy are needed.


We report a type of colloidal gel, induced by a minute incremental addition of mutually attractive small particles (size ∼12 nm) to a suspension of highly charged large particles (size ∼500 nm). The gel's morphological behavior does not follow the typical power-law scaling for fractal clusters. Its unique scaling behavior has two distinct power-law indices, based on particle volume fraction. We show the unique scaling behavior arises when nonfractal networks of large particles are bridged by small-particle clusters, which occurs between a lower and upper critical boundary of small particle volume fraction.


Quantitative assessment of data quality is critical for identifying the presence of data defects and the extent of the damage due to these defects. Quantitative assessment can help define realistic quality improvement targets, track progress, evaluate the impacts of different solutions, and prioritize improvement efforts accordingly. This study describes a methodology for quantitatively assessing both impartial and contextual data quality in large datasets. Impartial assessment measures the extent to which a dataset is defective, independent of the context in which that dataset is used. Contextual assessment, as defined in this study, measures the extent to which the presence of defects reduces a dataset's utility, the benefits gained by using that dataset in a specific context. The dual assessment methodology is demonstrated in the context of Customer Relationship Management (CRM), using large data samples from real-world datasets. The results from comparing the two assessments offer important insights for directing quality maintenance efforts and prioritizing quality improvement solutions for this dataset. The study describes the steps and the computation involved in the dual-assessment methodology and discusses the implications for applying the methodology in other business contexts and data environments.


Abstract Risk analyses require proper consideration and quantification of the interaction between humans, organization, and technology in high-hazard industries. Quantitative human reliability analysis approaches require the estimation of human error probabilities (HEPs), often obtained from human performance data on different tasks in specific contexts (also known as performance shaping factors (PSFs)). Data on human errors are often collected from simulated scenarios, near-misses report systems, and experts with operational knowledge. However, these techniques usually miss the realistic context where human errors occur. The present research proposes a realistic and innovative approach for estimating HEPs using data from major accident investigation reports. The approach is based on Bayesian Networks used to model the relationship between performance shaping factors and human errors. The proposed methodology allows minimizing the expert judgment of HEPs, by using a strategy that is able to accommodate the possibility of having no information to represent some conditional dependencies within some variables. Therefore, the approach increases the transparency about the uncertainties of the human error probability estimations. The approach also allows identifying the most influential performance shaping factors, supporting assessors to recommend improvements or extra controls in risk assessments. Formal verification and validation processes are also presented.


The studies described in the present thesis were performed to investigate the interaction between genetic and developmental neuroendocrine factors underlying the individual variation in adult aggressive behavior. In all experimentss election lines of wild house mice were used. These lines were genetically selected for aggressive behavior based upon attack latenry in a standard resident-intruder paradigm [van Oortmerssen & Bakker, 1981]. The short (SAL) and long (LAL) attack latency mice represent the extremes of the natural occurring bimodal distribution of aggression within a house mouse population [van Oortmerssen et al., 1985]. In nature both mouse types, and thus the variation in aggressiona, re functional for a population to survive [van Oortmerssen & Busser, 1988]. Hence, SAL and LAL mice are a proper animal model to study the ontogeny of functional differences in aggressive behavior. ... Zie: Summary and concluding remarks


feats, and been victimized by the blacklist and industrial espionage. In the course of the years, rubber workers have been affiliated with the Knights of Labor, the AFL, and the CIO. They were led by the IWW in a pivotal struggle in 1913 and opposed by an early edition of the &dquo;Mohawk Valley Formula.&dquo; They had their share of company unions and welfare plans in the twenties, and in the thirties were in the forefront of labor's fight for equality of bargaining power, ultimately organizing one of the &dquo;citadels of anti-unionism.&dquo; In


1 - Leaf litter decomposition rates, in aquatic ecosystems, are known to be related to many different abiotic and biotic factors.
2 - Here, we focus on the influence of abiotic factors, searching for patterns of reed litter decay rates on gradient of physiographic, hydrological and physico-chemical components of transitional water ecosystems.
3 - Field experiments were carried out in 16 water ecosystems in the Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea in spring 2005.
4 - Significant differences of leaf litter decomposition were observed among ecosystems along univariate gradient of tidal range, index of sinuosity, water temperature and salinity. At least 71% of variance in the litter breakdown rate was explained by the considered abiotic factors.
5 - It is concluded that, at the macro-ecological scale of study, some key abiotic factors, such as tidal range and salinity, are suggested to play a major role as drivers of plant detritus decomposition processes.
6 - The relevance of the described abiotic drivers as descriptor of the most commonly used classification schemes for transitional water ecosystems (i.e., Confinement and Venice System classifications), is a further support to their role as environmental forcing factors.


Alzheimer's disease and multi-infarct dementia are the two main diseases entirely different from each other producing almost the same abnormalities as dementia syndrome. With magnetic resonance imaging, severe atrophy of amygdala and hippocampus in both Alzheimer's disease and multi-infarct dementia was observed. There was no essential difference on the atrophic findings between Alzheimer's disease and multi-infarct dementia. This result therefore suggest that the quantitative measurement of amygdaloid and hippocampal atrophy predicts dementia.


Background Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, causing more than 1.6 million deaths annually, including 26,500 deaths in Brazil in 2015. The diagnosis of lung cancer in the early stages remains a challenge. Imaging tests are important for diagnostic suspicion and risk evaluation, but biopsy is needed to confirm malignancy. Minimally invasive methods for biopsy used include computed tomography-guided percutaneous biopsy (CTGB) and bronchoscopy transbronchial biopsy. The method of choice should have the best accuracy and the lowest complication rate. This systematic review is designed to map, critically evaluate and compare the effects (benefits and risks) of all lung nodule biopsy techniques.Methods We will conduct a systematic review according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions recommendations.Discussion This study aims to compare the diagnostic yield and the safety of different techniques used for pulmonary nodule biopsy. We will include randomized clinical trials comparing tomography-guided percutaneous biopsy, nonguided transbronchial biopsy, fluoroscopy-guided transbronchial biopsy, transbronchial biopsy guided by endobronchial ultrasound with a radial probe and transbronchial biopsy guided by electromagnetic navigation. This study was approved by the research ethics committee of Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP) (number 1344040918). The results of the completed protocol will be presented at any appropriate conference by the authors.Systematic review registration The protocol for this review was prospectively registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42018092367).


Before dealing with nappy rash, first examine the cause. Simple precautions such as frequent changing of the nappy, cleaning the skin and applying a water-repellent barrier cream can prevent some types of nappy rash from occurring. Creams and ointments for nappy rash contain a variety of ingredients such as emollients, water-repellents, antiseptics, astringents and anti-inflammatory agents. Nappy rash caused by Candida (thrush) needs to be treated with specific antifungals, eg clotrimazole, nystatin, miconazole. Rashes which do not settle or which recur frequently should be referred to a doctor for further investigation and treatment.


Cation vacancies in metal oxides have high formation energies and, thus, are not as abundant as their oxygen-related counterparts. Nonetheless, they can be readily created during non-equilibrium processes. Positron-annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is a well suited technique of probing such defects since negatively-charged lattice vacancies are deep potential wells which can act as positron traps. The present study reports first-principles calculations of positron trapping at Zr monovacancies in monoclinic zirconia. The binding of positrons and associated lifetimes for these defects were obtained within two-component density-functional theory under different approximations for the electron–positron correlation. The role of hydrogen was also explored. Low-energy vacancy–hydrogen defect complexes were determined for one and two hydrogen atoms bound to a single Zr monovacancy. Hydrogen decoration of the vacancy affected the localization of the positron leading to an appreciable decrease of the lifetime. The study was supplemented with PAS measurements on samples of monoclinic zirconia. From the PAS data two distinct, high-intensity components were resolved originating from different defect states. The corresponding lifetimes of 187 and 225 ps were very close to the theoretical predictions.


Hungarian banks fixed the interchange fee to be used in the two major payment card systems (MasterCard and Visa) on a multilateral basis. This fee is used in inter-bank clearing and is paid by the acquiring bank (which operates the bankcard terminal installed at the merchant) to the issuing bank (which issued the bankcard used for the payment). When the customer pays by card, the acquiring bank charges a fee to the merchant. Afterwards, the acquiring bank passes a portion of the merchant fee on to the issuing bank. In this system, the issuing bank has two sources of income: the cardholder may pay a fee for the issuance of the payment card, and the acquiring bank shares a part of the merchant fee. This makes the payment card industry a two-sided market.

These fees were normally not fixed on a bilateral basis but by means of a single uniform multilateral interchange fee ("MIF"). This practice gave rise to various competition investigations in Europe, where competition authorities approached the MIF in various ways: some considered it to be an agreement to be assessed by its effects, some pronounced this arrangement anticompetitive by object. In the end, the controversies about the MIF resulted in a European legislative intervention in the form of a regulatory cap.

While the MIF may have the appearance of price fixing, as the fee paid in consideration of the services provided by the issuing bank is fixed uniformly by competitors, this conclusion is overshadowed by the fact that the agreement embraces both sides of the market (sellers and buyers), and the MIF may be regarded as ancillary to the effective operation of the payment card system and as a means to encourage use of this payment method.

In Case Vj-18/2008 MIF, the Hungarian Competition Office ("HCO") used a combination of the two approaches: it condemned Hungarian banks for fixing the domestic MIF and for treating the two payment card companies alike as anticompetitive both by object and effect. The decision was appealed, and the Hungarian Supreme Court ("Kúria") submitted four preliminary questions. The Court of Justice of the European Union ("CJEU") answered the first two questions, but deemed the remainder to be inadmissible. The first question raised no difficult issues of interpretation. The Court confirmed that anticompetitive object and anticompetitive effect may be used as parallel legal bases by competition authorities and private plaintiffs: it is not against the law to pronounce the same agreement to be anticompetitive both by object and effect. The second question proved to be more difficult: the Hungarian Supreme Court requested the CJEU's guidance as to whether Hungarian banks' fixing of the interchange fee on a multilateral basis and uniformly in respect of the two payment card systems (MasterCard and Visa) was anticompetitive by object.


Effects of low priming dose of radiation on cell cycle progression in hep G2 and HeLa cells have been investigated. For both,cell lines, cells in the G(2)/M phase are accumulated temporarily after 5cGy gamma-ray exposing, and the proliferation of tumor cells is significantly promoted by low dose radiation. When exposing to 3Gy gamma-ray, only the G(2) phase arrest occurred for hep G(2) cells, and both S and G(2) arrest occurred for HeLa cells. In contrast to treatment with high dose of radiation, when high dose was delivered 4hr after priming dose, pretreatment facilitates the accumulation of hep G2 cells in G(2)/M phase, however, pretreatment does not significantly change the cell cycle progression of HeLa cells. It is concluded that alterations of the cell cycle progression by pretreatment with low dose of radiation are dependent on the type of tumor cell lines.


Relevance. The creation of porous three-dimensional materials for bone defects compensation and its subsequent regeneration is an important direction of medical materials science. The key issue in the interaction of an implant and bone tissue is the surface properties of the implant.The purpose of the study is to evaluate the physicochemical properties and compatibility of tissues of a living organism and porous implants with calcium phosphate Zn- and Ag-containing formed by microarc oxidation.Materials and Methods. Implants with various types of porous structure were made by direct laser sintering of titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V powders. The calcium phosphate coatings, including Zn- and Ag-containing, were formed on the implants surface by microarc oxidation.Results. Coatings, deposited in electrolytes of various compositions, were uniformly distributed over the implants mesh structure. The phase composition of Zn-containing coatings, deposited in the acidic electrolyte, was represented by amorphous calcium phosphates. Ag-containing coatings, deposited in the alkaline electrolyte, had an amorphous-crystalline structure, the crystalline phase of which was identified as tricalcium phosphate in the α and β modifications. The samples of extracts of calcium phosphate Zn and Ag-containing coatings were co-cultured with pFb line of the human postnatal fibroblasts for 48 hours at 37°C in 5% CO2 atmosphere. The MTT test revealed a high metabolic activity of the co-cultured fibroblasts in comparison with the fibroblasts of control.Conclusion. The pFb line of the human postnatal fibroblasts retained their viability for 48 hours of co-culturing with calcium-phosphate Zn- and Ag-containing coatings. The tested product and its components did not negatively affect the cellular respiration. However, further studies are needed to determine the rate of bioresorption and the degree of antibacterial activity of calcium-phosphate Zn- and Ag-containing coatings.


A study of enthusiast car restorers is used to illustrate how an information practice approach can provide information science researchers with a richer, more nuanced understanding of the complex interrelationship between people, technology, and information. An ethnographic approach incorporating both semistructured interviews and in the garage ethnographic observation was employed. Analysis was undertaken using an inductive, thematic approach. The findings demonstrate that participants' information environments are rich and complex. Participants' accounts emphasized the corporeal and embodied nature of the restoration process, and this may account for why they privileged the social networks they had developed, often over many decades, over online resources and communities. The findings indicate that participants are engaged in much more than applied problem solving. What is also evident is that engagement in the social world of car restoration, and the networks of social knowledge sharing it affords, is significant for the emotional support it provides for older men who often lose these networks later in life. In a sense, the participants are not only rebuilding their cars but also their own sense of self.


Neurones with chromatolysis, hyperchromatism and numerous nucleus have been counted of the paraffin cerebellar cortex sections coloured with kresil-violet and metil-green pironin. The alimentary deficiency has been shown to result in increase of cell number with chromatolysis and hyperchromatism and decrease of the number of numerous nucleus. The food rehabilitation doesn't take off completely damages caused by malnutrition. The use of carnitine leads to the complete rehabilitation that is due to the normalization of protein metabolism in cerebellum.


Our current understanding of the mechanisms of myocardial ischaemia and most of our knowledge of the effects of drugs on the ischaemic myocardium rest on studies based on experimental models ranging from the isolated heart muscle to the intact heart. In this review, the characteristics of the most commonly described models will be discussed. This will be illustrated by examples relevant to coronary artery disease and anaesthesia.


Background : A relatively new approach in criminology is the focus on desistance from crime. Since adolescent friendships have been proved to be of major influence on the etiology of delinquency, it is important to examine their role in desistance. Also, professional interventions are often of great importance to the life of the young offenders. Although research has been done on the effect of these programs on reducing recidivism (desistance), not much attention has been given to the inclusion or influence therein of friendships. Aim : This study investigates what brings about changes in friendship networks important to desistance and how interventions may influence these changes. Method : Seventeen in-depth interviews with ex-offenders aged 19 to 36 years have been analysed. Conclusion : Important changes in the friendship network of a desister are facilitated by cognitive transformations (shifts) in the decreasing susceptibility to influence of friends, the revaluating of delinquent friendships and increasing the interest in developing more prosocial friendships. Although respondents mainly evaluate interventions as not being useful, programs that involve friends and social networks do appear to be of influence to the process of desistance. To what degree they contribute to the changes in friendships, depends on the extent in which desisters bring the skills they have learned into practice.


Background and Aims: Fatty liver disease (FLD) has emerged as a major public issue in China. We aim to investigate prevalence, clinical features, and in-hospital outcome of FLD in acute aortic dissection (AAD) patients. Methods: Data of 379 AAD patients from 2017 to 2019 at Renmin hospital of Wuhan University was retrospectively collected and divided according to age and FLD absence. Propensity score matching was used for minimal confounding. We compared their physical environmental parameter of onset, clinical features, and in-hospital outcome. Results: The mean age was 52.0 ± 11.5 years in type A and 55.1 ± 11.4 in type B. 25.0% of type A and 19.2% of type B AAD patients had FLD. Logistic regression indicated a negative association between FLD and age, both in type A [unadjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.958 (per 1 year), 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.930–0.988, p = 0.0064] and type B [unadjusted OR 0.943 (per 1 year), 95% CI 0.910–0.978, p = 0.0013]. After matching, type A with FLD had onset with a lower air quality index (AQI) of 68.5 [interquartile range (IQR) 46.0–90.0] and a lower Pm 2.5 concentration of 36.0 μg/m3 (IQR 23.0–56.0) compared with non-FLD group. In Kaplan-Meier estimation, FLD was associated with higher risk of in-hospital mortality in type B AAD (p = 0.0297). Conclusion: The prevalence of FLD in AAD decrease with age, both in type A and type B AAD. Type A AAD patients with FLD had onset with better air quality parameters compared with non-FLD group. FLD was associated with higher risk of in-hospital mortality in type B AAD.


Flourine doped tin oxide films were synthesized by using hydrothermal method with different volume of solvents. The thin film growth was carried out by fixing the concentration of tin and fluorine element precursors by only varying their solvents which were 2-propanol and DI water. The fabrication of FTO thin film by using mineral salt group as tin precursor with hydrothermal method on soda lime glass showed that the nanostructured growth did not distribute largely and took longer time. The seed layer of FTO has been used to overcome these problems thus the thin film growth distributed largely in short time. These experiments were conducted at a constant of hydrothermal temperature and reaction time which were 150°C and 5 h respectively. The result showed that, there was a change on the surface morphology in the formation of FTO films. The minimum value of sheet resistance was 0.1475 Ω/sq which was obtained using 65 mL of 2-propanol and 20 mL of DI water was lower than sheet resistance of commercial FTO films of 01693 Ω/sq. This fabricated FTO films showed a good transparency with higher of transmittance than 80%. The experimental findings suggested that 65 mL amount of 2-propanol and 20 mL of DI water in precursor solutions could produce the better of FTO performance than commercial FTO.


The increased in internet and telecommunication usage has become the reason for the adopting of e-filling systems for annual tax report or SPT (based on Indonesian Taxation Authority Decree Number Kep.88/PJ/2004 on 14th May 2004 about electronic based annual tax report). On the contrary, this development does not show in the usage of the e-filling systems. This condition is the reason for this study to investigate the implementation of e-filling systems taxation policy by using decomposition theory of planned behavior. This theory is used to understand and test the influenced factors in the usage of electronic based annual tax report (e-filling) and the persistent of e-filling system in Indonesia. Population in this study is the Indonesian citizen's tax payers who have got tax registration number (NPWP) both who have or have not used e-filling to report the annual tax return in Surabaya area, East Java-Indonesia. Sample is taken using a non-probability sampling, with convienient sampling method. Analytical technique used in this observation is Structural Equation Method (SEM). The results showed that e-filling user's attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control influence the users' intention to use e-filling systems. These results indicated that Indonesian citizens' intention to use the e-filling facilities to report their annual tax income is depend upon their attitudes and controls on the systems. Even if Indonesian tax payers realized that with e-filling systems they will be able to increase the effectiveness, more optimize services, hasten and improved efficiency in annual tax reporting, the taxpayer does not completely understand about how to operate the e-filling system. Therefore, it is imperative for the government to socialize and educate them on the importance of e-filling systems.


This investigation, Mon dance: Creating standards to continue the performing arts of Thai-Raman, has the following objectives: 1) To understand the history, current conditions of and problems with Mon dance of the Thai-Raman; 2) To examine the standards of Mon dance; 3) To create standards to continue the performing arts of the Thai-Raman. This qualitative research was conducted in three central Thai provinces: Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi and Samut Prakan. Data was collected from documentary study and field data by means of observation, interview and group discussion. Workshops were also held with a total of 100 attendees, comprised of 20 key informants, 50 casual informants and 30 general informants. Data was validated using a triangulation technique and findings are presented using a descriptive analysis. The research highlighted current conditions and problems in dancing process, melody, costume, performers, time and rituals,which have similarities and contrasts depending on the environment and the social and cultural changes in each area. The standardization of the dance was found to be similar to the dancing process, melody, costume, performers, time and rituals. Traditions are not supposed to change in order to demonstrate the identity of Mon Dance. It was concluded that the dance process has 6 indicators and points were set in the performance judging criteria as follows: 170 points for the melody with 3 indicators, 195 points for the costume with one indicator, 30 points for the performers with six indicators, 80 points for the time with 2 indicators, 25 points for the rituals with 3 indicators and 40 points for meeting the assessment criteria. The passing score for the dance will be 80%.


Overweight and obesity incidence continues to increase and becomes a global problem in recent decades. One of the pathophysiology is a low energy output, therefore energy homeostasis shifts positively. Exercise is considered as an effective method to increase energy output. Irisin is one of myokine type that is secreted to the bloodstream while exercising and causes changes in subcutaneous adipose tissue. In adipose cells, irisin will stimulate the browning process in White Adipose Tissue to increase thermogenesis and lipolysis.


In this study, we examined vegetation structure and regeneration status of woody plants in the Hallideghie wildlife reserve, Ethiopia. We collected data on abundance, height and diameter at breast height (DBH) of woody plant species with DBH >2.5 cm within sixty-six 20 m × 20 m sample plots and counted number of individuals of seedlings (that is, individuals with height 1.5 m and DBH <2.5 cm) of each species within five 1 m × 1 m subplots nested within each main plot. To describe vegetation structure, we computed DBH and height size frequency distributions of individuals and species importance value indexes (IVI). Overall, we recorded 986 individuals of tree/shrub stems, belonging to 46 woody plant species. Both the number of species and individuals represented in each DBH size class and height size class showed decreasing trends with increasing size classes. However, different species showed varying patterns of DBH size structure. IVI of species varied from 0.3 to 69.1. The average density of seedlings, saplings and matured woody plants in the HWR were 1345, 899 and 374 individuals/ha, respectively. Balanites aegyptiaca and Acacia tortilis, species with high IVIs, were also among those species that exhibited poor regeneration status.

 Key words: DBH, importance values index (IVI), Prosopis juliflora, density, invasive species.


It is shown that a (non-Abelian) gauge field is completely described locally by the field strength and a finite number of its covariant derivatives.


In this study, we computationally examined the dynamics of dielectric barrier discharge in hydrogen sulfide. The simulations were performed with a 1d3v particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo collision model in which a parallel-plate electrode geometry with dielectrics was used. Particle recombination process is represented in the model. The discharge mode was found to be initially Townsend discharge developing from the cathode to the anode, and at the peak of the current, a more stable glow discharge develops from the anode to the cathode. A higher applied voltage results in sufficient secondary electrons to trigger a second current peak, and then the current amplitude increases. As the frequency is increased, it leads to the advance of the phase and an increase in the amplitude of the current peak. A higher dielectric permittivity also makes the discharge occur earlier and more violently in the gap.


In response to the rising number of individuals who have to combine work and home responsibilities, organizations increasingly offer work-home practices. These are HR-practices such as telework and part-time work that can help employees to combine work and home roles. However, extant research on the relationship between work-home practice use and both work-to-home conflict (i.e., work interfering with private life) and home-to-work conflict (i.e., private life interfering with work) shows inconsistent results. In this study, we posit that employees' work-home conflict does not so much depend on whether or not they use a specific work-home practice, but rather on (1) the degree to which their (non-)use of this practice is in line with their preference (i.e., volition) and (2) the pressure they experience from the work and/or the home environment to act in another way than they prefer (i.e., perceived work pressure and perceived home pressure). Hypotheses are tested for two specific work-home practices (i.e., home-based telework and part-time work) in both a field study and an experimental between-subject vignette study. Results show that work-home conflict is affected by volition, perceived work pressure and perceived home pressure; yet, some differences were found between the two types of work-home conflict (i.e., work-to-home and home-to-work conflict) and between the two types of work-home practices. Our results nuance the dichotomy between users and non-users of work-home practices that has been dominantly used in the work-home practice literature to date and point to similar predictors of work-home conflict among both the group of users and the group of non-users. These findings may encourage researchers to examine characteristics of employees' work-home practice use (e.g., volition, perceived pressure) in addition to the mere use of these practices when studying their effectiveness.


Genetic engineering is an important tool in helping us to define the molecular basis of pathogenicity and is also useful in helping us to identify new therapeutic targets in pathogenic fungi. Molecular genetic manipulation of micro-organisms requires the development of plasmid-mediated transformation systems that include: (i) infusion of exogenous DNA into recipient cells, (ii) expression of genes present on the incoming DNA, and (iii) stable maintenance and replication of the inserted DNA leading to expression of the desired phenotypic trait. Transformation systems have been developed for only a handful of fungi that are pathogenic to humans including several species of Candida, Cryptococcus neoformans, Histoplasma capsulatum, Blastomyces derrmatitidis, Aspergillus fumigatus, Wangiella dermatitidis (Exophiala dermatitidis) and Coccidioides immitis. Except for Candida species and A. fumigatus, where passage of exogenous DNA into recipient cells has been achieved readily using methods developed for transformation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Aspergillus nidulans, respectively, development of transformation systems in other pathogenic fungi has been delayed considerably and has only been possible recently with the introduction of electroporation and biolistic methods. Conventional spheroplasting methods or cell wall permeabilization methods using lithium acetate have not been successful for transformation of C. neoformans and work with only low efficiency in H. capsulatum. The fate of incoming DNA varies greatly in these pathogenic species regardless of their phylogenetic relationships. Understanding the fate of incoming DNA is critical for the construction of transforming vectors and the molecular manipulation of the organisms. In this symposium, recent advances in molecular genetic systems including transformation systems, the fate of incoming DNA and strategies for targeted integration are discussed in relation to four pathogenic fungi.


Can the philosophical views of the historical Socrates be distinguished from those of his pupil Plato? And if so, how do the master's views differ from the pupil's? And do these Socratic views add up to a coherent philosophical position? In Section I of this chapter, I explain the basis on which, following most modern interpreters, I feel able to divide Plato's dialogues into a group of (earlier) "Socratic" dialogues, where the character Socrates speaks more or less for the historical Socrates; and a group of (middle and later) dialogues in which the main character (now not always Socrates) speaks rather for Plato. I argue that the Plato of the middle and later dialogues, though some of his views remain the same, and though he attacks some of the same enemies and for some of the same reasons, has nevertheless in some ways gone well beyond the master. On some points, I suggest, he even contradicts him. In Section II, I contrast these Socratic dialogues with the other dialogues - first, in their form, method, tone, and subject matter; second, in their attitude to the sciences (arts, crafts, expertises), education, rhetoric, and mathematics; and third, in their theories of virtue, desire, and "weakness of will." In Section III, I address myself to the question with what right I attribute any views at all to a philosopher who claimed that he knew only that he knew nothing - especially when the Socratic dialogues virtually all end negatively.


In this study, we examined monthly temperature variation from 1973 to 2008 on grid regions of the earth surface above latitude 45°North, covering the Arctic Ocean, northern areas of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and the Asian and European continent. Linear modelling was used to investigate the trends and patterns of temperature changes and account for auto-correlations of the temperature changes over time. Factor analysis was then used to model filtered residuals, i.e., the residuals after removing time trends and auto-correlation, providing a basis for identifying and classifying regions with similar temperature change. Twelve large regions, each having similar temperature change patterns, were identified. Of the 69 sub-regions considered in the study, 64 sub-regions experienced significant increase in temperature, 2 sub- regions had insufficient data, and only 3 sub-regions remained unchanged. High temperature increases (0.200°C to 0.320°C) occurred in the North Pacific Ocean, Alaska and Eastern Siberia. Moderate temperature increases (0.130°C to 0.199°C) occurred in north Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland. The north of Siberia and part of the North Atlantic had low increases (0.090°C to 0.129°C) while northeast Canada and its surrounding seas did not show evidence of warming.


Background: Kinematically aligned total knee arthroplasty (KA-TKA) may lead to a different pattern of osteotomy from mechanically aligned total knee arthroplasty (MA-TKA). This paper aims to analyze the effects of KA and MA on the morphology of the distal femoral osteotomy surface. Methods: Computed tomography scans of 80 TKA candidates were reconstructed into 3D models. The measurement of bone morphology was performed after the distal femur cut according to two different alignment techniques. The aspect ratio, trapezoidicity ratio, and asymmetry ratio of the distal femur were assessed. Results: The aspect ratio and the asymmetry ratio in the KA group was significantly lower than that in the MA group in the general population (p < 0.001). The trapezoidicity ratio in the KA group was significantly higher than that in the MA group in the general population (p < 0.001). Conclusions: It was found that KA-TKA and MA-TKA presented different morphologies of the distal femoral osteotomy surface, and this difference was also influenced by gender. The surgery pattern of KA-TKA and MA-TKA and gender should be considered when surgeons choose femoral prostheses.


Agriculture confronts several challenges over the decade, i.e., meeting burgeoning food requirements with limited farm land, and balancing the need to import with the provision of livelihoods. The current policy regime leans heavily toward import substitution, with supply side interventions to boost production, combined with protectionism toward sensitive products (particularly rice). The study conducts a scenario analysis to examine the likely evolution of Philippine agriculture to 2020, as well as the implications of pursuing alternative policies. It finds that, under a business-as-usual scenario: Agricultural growth continues with dramatic increases for rice production in the offing. Likewise per capita consumption of most food items would continue increasing. Import growth is curtailed, with substantial price increases for meat products and rice. The alternative scenario involves liberalization and re-allocation of expenditure support toward export-oriented agricultural subsectors. Under this scenario, imports of rice, yellow maize, and poultry increase, with faster increases in per capita consumption than under business-as-usual, and lower retail prices. While consumers gain, producers of import-competing products face harsher competition and cut back on their production. Deepest cuts are expected for rice. Export-oriented commodities experience a production and export boost, with brightest prospects for other crops, banana, aquaculture products, and even coconut. This study recommends the outward-oriented policy, with concomitant measures to compensate losers, ease the burden of adjustment, and facilitate the transition toward a more diversified and dynamic agricultural sector.


We propose an adaptive design for early‐phase drug‐combination cancer trials with the goal of estimating the maximum tolerated dose (MTD). A nonparametric Bayesian model, using beta priors truncated to the set of partially ordered dose combinations, is used to describe the probability of dose limiting toxicity (DLT). Dose allocation between successive cohorts of patients is estimated using a modified continual reassessment scheme. The updated probabilities of DLT are calculated with a Gibbs sampler that employs a weighting mechanism to calibrate the influence of data vs the prior. At the end of the trial, we recommend one or more dose combinations as the MTD based on our proposed algorithm. We apply our method to a Phase I clinical trial of CB‐839 and Gemcitabine that motivated this nonparametric design. The design operating characteristics indicate that our method is comparable with existing methods.


Abstract This paper examines one of the least known chapters of Middle Eastern history, that of Abu Dhabi before the discovery of oil. It reassesses the reign of Shakhbut bin Sultan al-Nuhayyan (1928–1966), which has been of little interest to scholars. This article's analysis has two strands. First, it examines the nature of the emirate of Abu Dhabi before the advent of oil, and in doing so looks at the complexity of tribe–state relations. Based on a kind of modus vivendi with the tribes, Shakhbut's Abu Dhabi provides some clear examples of how remote areas of tribal societies were administered. The second part of the analysis concerns developments in the 1960s, in particular the discovery of oil in Abu Dhabi and the British decision to withdraw from the Gulf and end British protection of the sheikdom and other Trucial States. These profound changes overwhelmed Shaykh Shakhbut and caused his tribal state to lose its vitality. A particular emphasis is given to the anomalous relationship between Shaykhbut and the British authorities, brought about by the changing circumstances, that eventually led to his removal from power.


An efficient multigrid finite-differences scheme for solving elliptic Fredholm
partial integro-differential equations (PIDE) is discussed. This scheme combines
a second-order accurate finite difference discretization of the PIDE
problem with a multigrid scheme that includes a fast multilevel integration of
the Fredholm operator allowing the fast solution of the PIDE problem. Theoretical
estimates of second-order accuracy and results of local Fourier analysis
of convergence of the proposed multigrid scheme are presented. Results of
numerical experiments validate these estimates and demonstrate optimal computational
complexity of the proposed framework.


Abstract Quetiapine is one of the most commonly prescribed antipsychotics to treat schizophrenia in adults, in particular. In this study, quetiapine's effects were assessed on healthy sperm production in rats at repeated-pharmacological doses. Additionally, the effects of quetiapine on oxidative status and hormonal balance were also evaluated in rats. Quetiapine was administered to rats orally at 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg body weight doses for 28 days. At the end of this period, body and organ weights were measured, sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were determined, sperm damage was assessed, and histopathological analysis of testicular tissue was performed. Additionally, serum FSH, LH, and testosterone levels as male reproductive hormones were measured. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and malondialdehyde levels were determined for evaluating the oxidative status of testicular tissue. The findings obtained in this study showed that relative epididymis weights and sperm concentration decreased and abnormal sperm morphology increased in quetiapine-administered rats. Irregularity of typical architecture of the seminiferous tubules and germinal cell disorganization was observed in testicular sections of 20 and 40 mg/kg quetiapine-administered rats. Further, serum LH and testosterone levels decreased in 20 and 40 mg/kg quetiapine-administered rats. Additionally, decreased catalase and superoxide dismutase activities in testicular tissue of quetiapine-administered rats and increased malondialdehyde levels in testicular tissue of 40 mg/kg quetiapine-administered rats were measured. In conclusion, quetiapine treatment decreased sperm quality, altered hormone levels, and induced oxidative stress may be considered potential contributors to this adverse effect.


Steady and unsteady viscous flow simulations of a full-scale, semispan, and full-span model of the F-16XL-1 aircraft are performed with three different computational fluid dynamics codes using a common unstructured grid. Six different flight conditions are considered. They represent Reynolds and Mach number combinations at subsonic speeds, with and without sideslip. The steady computations of the flow at these flight conditions are made with several Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes turbulence models of different complexity. Detached-eddy simulation, delayed detached-eddy simulation, and an algebraic hybrid Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes/large-eddy simulation model are used to quantify unsteady effects at the same flight conditions. The computed results are compared with flight-test data in the form of surface pressures, skin friction, and boundary-layer velocity profiles. The focus of the comparison is on turbulence modeling effects and effects of unsteadiness. The overall agreement with flight data is good, with no clear trend as to which physical modeling approach is superior for this class of flow. The Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes turbulence models perform well in predicting the flow in an average sense. However, some of the flow conditions involve locally unsteady flow over the aircraft, which are held responsible for the scatter between the different turbulence modeling approaches. The detached-eddy simulations are able to quantify the unsteady effects, although they are not consistently better than the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes turbulence models in predicting the flow in an average sense in these flow regions. Detached-eddy simulation fails to predict boundary-layer profiles consistently over a range of flow regimes, with delayed detached-eddy simulation and hybrid Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes/large-eddy simulation models offering a remedy to recover some of the predictive capabilities of the underlying Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes turbulence model. Nonetheless, the confidence in the predictive capabilities of the computational fluid dynamics codes with regard to complex vortical flowfields around high-performance aircraft of this planform increased significantly during this study.


The interplay between stochastic chemical reactions and diffusion can generate rich spatiotemporal patterns. While the timescale for individual reaction or diffusion events may be very fast, the timescales for organization can be much longer. That separation of timescales makes it particularly challenging to anticipate how the rapid microscopic dynamics gives rise to macroscopic rates in the non-equilibrium dynamics of many reacting and diffusing chemical species. Within the regime of stochastic fluctuations, the standard approach is to employ Monte Carlo sampling to simulate realizations of random trajectories. Here, we present an alternative numerically tractable approach to extract macroscopic rates from the full ensemble evolution of many-body reaction diffusion problems. The approach leverages the Doi-Peliti second-quantized representation of reaction-diffusion master equations along with compression and evolution algorithms from tensor networks. By focusing on a Schl\"{o}gl model with one-dimensional diffusion between $L$ otherwise well-mixed sites, we illustrate the potential of the tensor network approach to compute rates from many-body systems, here with approximately $3 \times 10^{15}$ microstates. Specifically, we compute the rate for switching between metastable macrostates, with the expense for computing those rates growing subexponentially in $L$. Because we directly work with ensemble evolutions, we crucially bypass many of the difficulties encountered by rare event sampling techniques$\unicode{x2013}$detailed balance and reaction coordinates are not needed.


The vertices of a finite state system are usually a subset of the natural numbers. Most algorithms relative to these systems only use this fact to select vertices. For infinite state systems, however, the situation is different: in particular, for such systems having a finite description, each state of the system is a configuration of some machine. Then most algorithmic approaches rely on the structure of these configurations. Such characterisations are said internal. In order to apply algorithms detecting a structural property (like identifying connected components) one may have first to transform the system in order to fit the description needed for the algorithm. The problem of internal characterisation is that it hides structural properties, and each solution becomes ad hoc relatively to the form of the configurations. On the contrary, external characterisations avoid explicit naming of the vertices. Such characterisation are mostly defined via graph transformations. In this paper we present two kind of external characterisations: deterministic graph rewriting, which in turn characterise regular graphs, deterministic context-free languages, and rational graphs. Inverse substitution from a generator (like the complete binary tree) provides characterisation for prefix-recognizable graphs, the Caucal Hierarchy and rational graphs. We illustrate how these characterisation provide an efficient tool for the representation of infinite state systems.


A simulation study of dynamical evolution of nonlinearly interacting two-dimensional magnetic electron drift vortex (MEDV) modes in a nonuniform plasma is presented. Depending on the equilibrium density and temperature gradients, the system can either be stable or unstable. The unstable system reveals spontaneous generation of magnetic fields from noise level, and large-scale magnetic field structures are formed. When the system is linearly stable, one encounters MEDV mode turbulence in which there is a competition between zonons (zonal flows) and streamers. For large MEDV mode amplitudes, one encounters the formation of localized and small-scale magnetic vortices and vortex pairs with scale sizes of the order of the electron skin depth. The MEDV turbulence exhibits nonuniversal (non-Kolmogorov-type) spectra for different sets of plasma parameters. The relevance of this work to laboratory and cosmic plasmas is briefly mentioned.


Purpose – Interest rate risk immunization is one of the key concerns for fixed income portfolio management. In recent years, the affluence of new risk measures has emphasized the importance of comparing them with the classic approaches. As a result, one question arises: what is the relation among classic risk measures (e.g. Macaulay duration, convexity, and dispersion) and other more recent risk measures (e.g. value-at-risk and conditional value-at-risk) as tools for the formation of an optimum investment portfolio? This article aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach – To enhance objectivity, an empirical study has been conducted on the US Treasury bonds market by means of the formation of different portfolios among a selected set of bonds with different maturities and structures. In addition, information about yields from the mid-1990s and early 2000s has been used to find the optimum portfolio compositions based on each alternative risk measure. Findings – The main finding of the study is that there is an absence of relationships between those portfolios optimized by classic measures and those optimized by modern measures. The results show how both types of risk measures lead to quite different portfolios. Practical implications – The behavior of modern risk measures has been examined, with the finding that, when VaR is used, the sensitivity of the optimal portfolio with respect to the level of confidence is too high. Finally, if CVaR is used, then the optimal portfolio is quite stable with respect to the confidence level. Originality/value – This is the first paper to compare classic and modern measures of interest rate risk in fixed income portfolios. It is of value to decision makers, experts, and economic researchers.


Guidelines and tips are offered for writing a Psychological Bulletin review article that will be accessible to the widest possible audience. Techniques are discussed for organizing a review into a coherent narrative, and the importance of giving readers a clear take-home message is emphasized. In addition, advice is given for rewriting a manuscript that has been reviewed and returned with an invitation to revise and resubmit.