The primary orientation of this thesis is to explore some interesting features of static and dynamic potentials in magnetized quantum plasmas including the dust dynamics in the presence of wave field associated with different modes.These modes may be electrostatic in nature.These investigations find significance applications in small and large scale plasmas.This thesis contains some new extensions to dust-lower-hybrid modes in quantum dusty plasmas. In chapter II, the effect of strong ambient static magnetic field on Shukla-Nambu- Salimullah (SNS) potential in a dusty quantum magnetoplasma has been investigated using quantum hydrodynamic (QHD) model.The potential is significantly modified by quantum statistical effects, density inhomogeneity and dust polarization drift effect. It is found that dust polarization drift effect pre-dominates the ion polarization drift effect in high magnetic field environments.The potential around a static test charge has been plotted for different parameters in high density quantum magnetoplasmas. We have seen that for increasing values of number density and inhomogeneity scale length, the modified SNS potential decreased due to the decrease in the Fermi Debye length. Subsequently using the quantum hydrodynamic model for quantum magnetoplasmas, the Shukla–Nambu–Salimullah shielding potential and the far-field dynamical wake potential in a quantum dusty plasma with a nonuniform density and static magnetic field have been investigated in chapter III.The short-range screening potential and the longrange oscillatory wake potential are found to be significantly affected by the nonuniformities in the density and the static magnetic field. It is seen that SNS and oscillatory wake potentials increases with the increase of external magnetic field and for increasing values of number density and inhomogeneity scale length, the amplitude and effective length of wake potential decreased.The far-field oscillatory wake-field potential can explain attraction among the same polarity charges leading to the possible ordered structures or coagulation in the inhomogeneous quantum dusty magnetoplasma. Finally in chapter IV, the dispersion relation of the dust-lower-hybrid wave has been derived using the quantum hydrodynamic model of plasmas in an ultracold Fermi dusty plasma in the presence of a uniform external magnetic field.The dust dynamics, electron Fermi temperature and the quantum correction give rise to significant effects on the dust-lower-hybrid wave of the magnetized quantum dusty plasmas.Numerically it is found that frequency of the quantum dust-lower-hybrid wave increases with increasing wavenumber and with the increase of magnetic field at the small angle of propagation. The summary and conclusions are in the end of the thesis.


Organic Electrochemical Transistors (OECTs) are widely investigated for applications in bioelectronics. Ionic liquids (ILs) are, in principle, interesting candidates as gating media in OECTs. Nevertheless, ILs can exhibit excessively high viscosity that prevents their straightforward application in OECTs. Here we report two processing approaches to apply the highly viscous ionic liquid triisobutyl(methyl)phosphonium tosylate (Cyphos® IL 106) in OECTs based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrenesulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), namely IL–H2O binary mixtures and ion gels. The use of Cyphos® IL 106–H2O binary mixtures and ion gels as gating media determines an increase of the OECT modulation, with respect to the pure ionic liquid. This increase cannot be explained simply by the change of the viscosity and ionic conductivity of the ionic liquid–H2O mixtures with the increase of the H2O content. Using high surface area activated carbon gates, ON/OFF ratios as high as 5000 are achieved with Cyphos® IL 106–H2O mixtures at 5 and 10% H2O v/v.


A body of research suggests that the provision of energy feedback information to building users can elicit significant energy reductions through behaviour change. However, most studies have focused on energy use in homes and the assessment of interventions and technologies, to the neglect of the non-domestic context and broader issues arising from the introduction of feedback technologies. To address this gap, a non-domestic case study explores the delivery of personalized energy feedback to office workers through a novel system utilizing wireless technologies. The research demonstrates advantages of monitoring occupancy and quantifying energy use from specific behaviours as a basis for effective energy feedback; this is particularly important where there are highly disaggregated forms of energy use and a range of locations for that activity to take place. Quantitative and qualitative data show that personalized feedback can help individuals identify energy reduction opportunities. However, the analysis also highlights important contextual barriers and issues that need to be addressed when utilizing feedback technologies in the workplace. If neglected, these issues may limit the effective take-up of feedback interventions.


High concentrations of beta-aminoisobutyric acid (BAIBA) were found to be present in the urine from patients with ketoacidosis. The R-form was always the dominating isomer of BAIBA. The finding is discussed, and it is suggested that the mechanism might be a derangement in the degradation of valine.


To discuss assimilation of dolomite with sinter mixture and the influences of dolomite use on the performance and on sinter quality, pot tests and small scale assimilation tests have been conducted. In particular, a microstructural evolution during sintering with using dolomite was focused on. Dolomite with mean size of 1 mm showed fairly good performance in pot tests. Using excessive fine or coarse dolomite resulted in loss of strength due to different mechanisms. Assimilation rate of dolomite was in the range between limestone and serpentine. Fluxes with large particle size above 1 mm tended to influence on microstructural evolution during sintering. Reaction behavior of dolomite during sintering consisted of 4 steps, calcination, formation of magnetite s.s by solid-state diffusion, formation of calciumferrite melt and formation of magnetite by reaction between MgO and calciumferrite melt. The last step was associated with the decrease in strength or yield of sinter. Difference in the nature of the magnetite s.s formed by two different mechanisms seemed to be related to the difference of sinter quality. In comparing reactions of dolomite and serpentine, microstructural evolution process differed by properties of formed melt during assimilating, reducible conditions in equilibrium state, fluidity and diffusion rate of Mg2+. Results of plant trials to examine proper amount of use and size distribution of dolomite showed that dolomite with 1.0 mm mean size could replace dunite or Ni-slag as MgO-bearing fluxes without significant worse effect in the limited amount of use.


ABSTRACT/RESUME This analytic paper explores the use of ethnic origin census data in policy- and practice-relevant health research. It begins with a definition of key terms, outlines the importance of ethnicity and health research, and provides a summary overview of the existing research literature. This is followed by a review of the changing formulation and format of the "ethnic origin" question itself through time, and a consideration of the implications thereof for data usage. The paper next examines the use of ethnic origin data in health research, considers data linkages with various health status indicators, and explores linkages with other health-related surveys; it also outlines the use of ethnic origin information in health policy development, programme planning, and service delivery. The discussion then turns to an identification of core issues, the provision of concrete suggestions for addressing the conceptual and methodological challenges identified, and the presentation of key recommendations for future directions. Ce document analytique scrute l'utilisation des donnees sur l'origine ethnique tirees du recensement de 2001 dans la recherche en sante pertinente sur le plan des politiques et des pratiques. L'auteure definit d'abord les termes cles, souligne l'importance de l'appartenance ethnique et de la recherche en sante pour la societe canadienne, et fait un survol des recherches dans le domaine. L'auteure examine ensuite brievement la formulation de la question sur l'origine ethnique, ainsi que son format et sa transformation au fil du temps, et elle se penche sur l'incidence de ces facteurs pour I'utilisation des donnees. Le document traite par la suite de l'utilisation des donnees dans la recherche sur la sante, aborde la question du couplage des donnees avec divers indicateurs de sante, et examine les liens avec d'autres sondages lies a la sante; il explique egalement l'utilisation des renseignements sur l'origine ethnique dans la recherche sur la sante, l'elaboration des politiques, la planification des programmes et la prestation de services. Le document cerne ensuite les enjeux fondamentaux et fournit plusieurs suggestions concretes pour resoudre les problemes conceptuels et methodologiques mentionnes ainsi que quelques recommandations cles pour les orientations futures. INTRODUCTION Research in the area of ethnicity and health is of growing strategic importance given Canada's rapidly increasing ethno-cultural diversity. Over the past four decades, Canada has undergone a fundamental demographic shift attributable largely to changing immigration trends. Since 1901 it has welcomed 13.4 million new immigrants, a number equivalent to 45% of its current population. In both the 1960s and 1970s, 1.4 million new immigrants arrived, with an additional 1.3 million newcomers admitted in the 1980s; this increased to 2.2 million immigrants between 1991 and 2000. According to Statistics Canada, "flows this high have not been seen since the beginning of the century" (2003:6). Between 230,000 and 250,000 immigrants and refugees currently arrive in Canada each year. In 1957, the top ten immigrant source countries were all European; four decades later eight of the top ten were non-European (Kessel 1998) reflecting a major change in primary sending countries. Whereas prior to 1961, European borns made up 90% of all immigrants coming to Canada, between 1981 and 1991 they constituted only 25% of new immigrants (Badets 1993). In 1996 the top three regions of origin were Asia and the Pacific (51%), Europe and the United Kingdom (21%), followed by Africa and the Middle East (18%). Approximately 15% of new immigrants came from India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka (Citizenship and Immigration Canada 1999), and 30% were from China, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. The more recent census indicates that 58% who arrived between 1991 and 2001 came from Asia (including the Middle East), 20% from Europe, 11% from the Caribbean and Central and South America, 8% from Africa, and 3% from the United States. …


The project considers the class of deterministic continuous-time optimal control problems (OCPs) with piecewise-affine (PWA) vector fields and polynomial data. The OCP is relaxed as an infinite-dimensional linear program (LP) over space of occupation measures. The LP is then written as a particular instance of the generalized moment problem which is then approached by an asymptotically converging hierarchy of linear matrix inequality (LMI) relaxations. The relaxed dual of the original LP gives a polynomial approximation of the value function along optimal trajectories. Based on this polynomial approximation, a novel suboptimal policy is developed to construct a state feedback in a sample-and-hold manner. The results show that the suboptimal policy succeeds in providing a stabilizing suboptimal state feedback law that drives the system relatively close to the optimal trajectories and respects the given constraints.


Abstract Placebo use in clinical trials, whenever a proven effective treatment exists, is one of the most debated topics in contemporary research ethics. This article addresses the ethical framework for placebo use in clinical trials assessing vaccine efficacy in pregnant women. Vaccine trial participants are healthy at the outset and some must be infected during the study to demonstrate the product's efficacy, meaning that placebo-treated participants are under risk of serious and irreversible harm. If effective vaccines exist, such risk precludes placebo use. This interdiction should be extended to any clinical trial of vaccine efficacy in pregnant women, because a demonstration of clinical efficacy in nonpregnant individuals and comparable immunogenic responses in pregnant women are predictors of efficacy in pregnancy as well. Moreover, product effectiveness in real-world use scenarios can be ascertained by observational studies conducted after its inclusion in vaccination campaigns.


Organ cultures of human embryonic trachea in test tubes were used as an adjunct to tissue cultures in the isolation of respiratory viruses from children in hospital. Fifty-one viruses were obtained from 127 specimens, giving an isolation rate of 40%. Fifteen viruses were isolated from the original tissue cultures and also after passage through organ culture. Thirty viruses were isolated from the original tissue culture only, and six viruses only from organ culture (three para-influenza, one influenza A, and one rhinovirus). An increase of 5% in virus isolation rate over that of standard tissue culture was obtained.


Despite its international status as a world heritage area, Australia's Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is under threat from development. Activities relating to primary resource extraction and increasing urbanization along the adjoining coastal lands not only threaten its status but illustrate the profound dilemma of development and the conservation of natural values. Criticisms of world heritage as a protective mechanism lie in the ambiguity in its operations particularly as there are no direct controls over the signatories (Evans, 2002) with the only leverage to exact compliance being the delisting or threat of delisting a property (Hazen, 2008; Maswood, 2000). Commentary suggests a lack of connection between the international intent of world heritage and the operationalization of it into national and local management regimes (Fowler, 2007; Lennon, 2006; Pendlebury, Short and While, 2009). Under the UNESCO consideration to put the GBR on the "in-danger" list, Australia has embarked on revising its development assessment process. This paper examines the newly devised strategic environmental assessment. While UNESCO is complementary to Australia's policy shift, it remains watchful over the management of the GBR and the port development that threatens its integrity. This paper outlines the planning frameworks and Australia's response to UNESCO, concluding that proactive measures have been taken but there is conflicting evidence to demonstrate that these will not protect an internationally important place from development.


Background: The last decades have seen an increased awareness by the scientific community of the extent of resistance to conventional antibiotics, particularly with respect to the emerging multidrug-resistant pathogenic microbes. Additionally, natural antioxidants have received significant attention among food professionals and consumers because of their assumed safety and potential therapeutic value. The aim of this work was to assess the antioxidant activities of eight selected commercial essential oils (EOs), together with the evaluation of their antibacterial and anti-quorum sensing properties. Methods: The chemical profiling of the EOs was performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The antioxidant properties of the EOs were evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay and by β-carotene bleaching test. Disc diffusion assays were employed to evaluate the anti-bacterial and anti-quorum sensing activities of the EOs. Results: It was observed that EOs from three Eucalyptus species are rich in eucalyptol. Generally, linalool is abundant in EOs from four Lavandula species. The oil of Cymbopogon citratus is the one with the best capacity to scavenge the DPPH free radicals and presented great antibacterial activity. Conclusions: The geographical origins of the plant species are determinant factors in the EO composition and in the corresponding biological activities.


Denitrification in the secondary clarifier can contribute substantially to the nitrogen removal of activated sludge systems. This is illustrated on two treatment plants with different secondary clarifier systems. A model to estimate denitrification capacity and to design activated sludge systems for nitrogen removal is developed and verified with data from two treatment plants. The model includes denitrification in the secondary clarifier, wastewater composition (soluble readily biodegradable COD, particulate degradable COD), oxygen input into the anoxic volume, temperature, and solids retention time (SRT). The influence of aerated grit chambers and primary sedimentation on denitrification is discussed.


Three patients with a relatively mild form of beta O-thalassemia who did not require regular blood transfusions are described. Globin synthesis was studied by gel filtration and urea-carboxymethylcellulose chromatography of stroma-free hemolysates prepared from peripheral blood and bone marrow cells labeled in vitro with 14C-leucine. gamma/alpha Synthetic ratios in peripheral blood were in the same range as in patients with the severe clinical form of beta O-thalassemia, while gamma/alpha synthetic ratios in bone marrow cells were higher than in that group of patients. The size of the free alpha-chain pool measured in one case was smaller than in other patients with "classical" Cooley anemia. It is concluded that the severity of the clinical course in beta O-thalassemia does not correlate with the imbalance in alpha verus gamma chain synthesis in peripheral blood and is determined by the synthetic ratio in bone marrow cells, where the bulk of hemoglobin synthesis takes place.


In traditional Islamic cities, the great mosque lies in the middle as the main landmark of the city. It is stated in the Qur'an that the Ka'ba (Mecca sacred mosque) was the first house that was built in Mecca city for humanity to worship Allah. Therefore, Mecca is the holiest city of Islam, and the goal of the annual Muslim hajj (pilgrimage). The objective of the present study is to explore the significance of sacred mosque of Mecca global location on dry land by using accurate measurements and Satellite programs. The results of the study illustrate that the sacred mosque of Mecca equally distances away from the following locations: 1) The farthest borders edges of Africa and Europe as well, 2) The nearest borders of the new world continents along with a part of Asia which meeting the Northern borders of North America at the Bering Sea, 3) The farthest borders of the new world continents that represent the outer edges of the dry land , 4) Finally, the Ka'ba is equally distant from the geographical centers of the new world continents.


The focus of this thesis is The Family Instructor by Daniel Defoe. There are two books: Volume I, first published in 1715, and Volume II, published in 1718. In both cases I have used the Pickering and Chatto edition, published in 2006 and edited by P.N. Furbank.

The thesis examines The Family Instructor, in the contexts of family, religion and of its style, to argue that, although usually classed as a conduct book, it is not easily categorised, reflecting as it does Defoe's transitional status between ancient and modern times.

The Introduction gives my argument. After the opening chapter, which contains critical remarks on Defoe's work, Chapter Two considers The Family Instructor in the context of contemporary representations of the family. The older, patriarchal model is examined. In this the husband/ and father is responsible for the entire household, whereas the modern, ―nuclear‖, version, which is also examined, relies less on status and more on contractual and emotional relationships.

Chapter Three looks at religion, beginning with an overview of the many sects which are significant for an understanding of The Family Instructor. The chapter argues that although Defoe is at times close to the Latitudinarian position and despite his claim that the work is designed to apply both to Anglicans and Dissenters, his overall position is that of a Dissenter.

Chapter Four examines the conduct book genre and goes on to compare the style of The Family Instructor with that of Robinson Crusoe in particular, arguing that the former does not qualify as a ―conduct book‖ and that many of the devices which Defoe uses in his first long narrative are present in The Family Instructor. The Conclusion draws together the arguments of the preceding chapters.


As mobile data traffic levels have increased exponentially, resulting in rising energy costs in recent years, the demand for and development of green communication technologies has resulted in various energy-saving designs for cellular systems. At the same time, recent technological advances have allowed multiple component carriers (CCs) to be simultaneously utilized in a base station (BS), a development that has made the energy consumption of BSs a matter of increasing concern. Digital signal processing came long way from wire-based optical fiber communication to wireless-based high rate supported communication models. Radio waves supported long distance satellites, radars to microwave supported mobiles has changed in terms of technology and data rate in last two decades. Mobile communication has become part of daily life and mobile usage has witness immense growth results in high energy consumption which remains concerned area in resource management. Green communication technology is proposed in this paper for effectively controlling the date rate and power consumption to save the energy. The problem of energy minimization at BS transceivers subject to certain quality-of-service and fairness requirements for all users is addressed in this work based on communication activities in downlink transmissions of the BS with orthogonal frequency-division multiple access-based multi CCs are considered. Experimental results reveal that proposed method yields better results than traditional algorithms. By using SUI channel model which consider Height of antenna, Terrain type, Doppler spread, LOS conditions are fixed. Also cell size, BTS antenna height, receiver antenna height, BTS antenna beamwidth, receiver antenna beamwidth, vertical polarizations are considered to get fair system.


Abstract Inside of the Norne E-segment remains a considerable amount of residual oil even after applying the primary and secondary oil recovery methods (water injection). Recently, several methods have been studied based on simulations to decrease the residual oil trapped by capillary forces and consequently improve the oil recoverability. Additionally, Norne E-segment is severely affected by stratigraphic barriers and faults of nature not sealing, semi sealing and completely sealing. Water Alternating Gas (WAG) and Simultaneously Water Alternating Gas (SWAG) injection techniques are presented as potential candidates to increase oil productivity in the Norne E-Segment by decreasing the gas mobility and capillary forces guarantying effective microscopic displacement due to gas flooding and macroscopic sweep created by water injection. In the first part of this study, based on simulations (Eclipse 100, Black oil simulator), sensitivity analyses of WAG cycles and WAG ratio were investigated combining with low injection rate and high injection rate. However, three WAG cycle were suggested (3 months, 6 months and 1years injection cycles) and different values of WAG ratio were studied based on low and high injection rates of water and gas. According to the results, WAG cycle doesn't affect the fluids rates productions when low injection rate is used, but a slightly effect is noticed when high injection rate is applied, thus a slightly optimal WAG ratio was found to be 1:3 when high WAG ratio is used. As a sequence, examination of three different injection patters scenarios were simulated to optimize the oil recoverability using both techniques WAG and SWAG, namely: injection studies using the injection wells already existed; injection studies using the injection wells already existed by doing a new completion within Ile and Tofte formations; injection studies placing a new injection well plus new completion of the injection well. As a result, the last scenario using SWAG technique presented oil recovery around 73%, whose was approximately 5% higher than oil recoverability when WAG injection technique (68%), when high injection rate is applied.


Purpose- In order to develop new bone imaging agent based on bisphosphonate moiety, an alendronate based complex was designed and prepared in this study. Methods- A DTPA-conjugated bis-alendronate analog (DTPA-bis-ALN) 3, was prepared for possible bone imaging after radiolabeling with 111In. Radiolabeled DTPA-bis-ALN complex was prepared starting radionuclide in chloride form and DTPA-bis-ALN in 30-90 min at 50-60°C in acetate buffer followed by solid phase purification on C18 Sep-Pak cartridge. RTLC was used for radiochemical purity determination followed by log P determination, stability studies, hydroxyl apatite tests and biodistribution studies in normal rats and imaging. Results- Specific activity 1.1-1.3 TBq/mmmol was obtained for 111In-complex. The log Ps was calculated 0.48 for the complex consistent with water soluble complexes followed by stability test. The biodistribution of the labeled compound in normalrats demonstrated activity uptake in kidneys. Conclusions- The anionic property of poly-dentate complex led to renal excretion instead of bone accumulation. These data showed that the developed complexes are not suitable agents for bone imaging as expected.


We put forward a general theory of goal-oriented communication, where communication is not an end in itself, but rather a means to achieving some goals of the communicating parties. Focusing on goals provides a framework for addressing the problem of potential "misunderstanding" during communication, where the misunderstanding arises from lack of initial agreement on what protocol and/or language is being used in communication. Despite the enormous diversity among the goals of communication, we propose a simple model that captures all goals.


We report the case of a patient with multiple sclerosis with congruent visual and auditory hallucinations of deceased familiar persons that lasted continuously for several days. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an isolated, predominantly left-sided lesion in the periaqueductal segment of the mesencephalon. We propose that these hallucinations represent a bimodal variant of classic peduncular hal- lucinations, brought about by a deregulation of modulatory superior collicular activity and a release of cross-modal integrative functions of the superior temporal sulcus.


Standard image sensors feature dynamic range about 60 to 70 dB while the light flux of natural scenes may be over 120 dB. Most imagers dedicated to address such dynamic ranges, need specific, and large pixels. However, canonical imagers can be used for high dynamic range (HDR) by performing multicapture acquisitions to compensate saturation. This technique is made possible at the expense of the need for large memory requirements and an increase of the overall acquisition time. On the other hand, the implementation of compressive sensing (CS) raises the same issues regarding the modifications of both the pixel and the readout circuitry. Assuming HDR images are sufficiently sparse, CS claims they can be reconstructed from few random linear measurements. A novel CS-based image sensor design is presented in this paper allowing a compressive acquisition without changing the classical pixel design, as well as the overall sensor architecture. In addition to regular CS, HDR CS is enabled thanks to specific time diagrams of the control signals. An alternative nondestructive column-based readout mode constitutes the main change compared to a traditional functioning. The HDR reconstruction, which is also presented in this paper, is based on merging the information of multicapture compressed measurements while taking into account noise sources and nonlinearities introduced by both the proposed acquisition scheme and its practical implementation.


This study focused on the optimization of reaction parameters for a simple and reliable method for the green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (gIONPs). The potential of aqueous extract of the Ceratonia siliqua L. (carob pod) as a reducing, capping, and stabilizing agent for gIONPs synthesis, and the antibacterial activity of as-synthesized gIONPs was investigated. The synthesis parameters were determined as the concentration of iron ion, the concentration of extract, pH of extract, temperature, stirring rate, and reaction time. The significance of the studied factors in controlling the particle size distribution of nanoparticles was quantitatively evaluated via analysis of variance (ANOVA). Iron oxide nanoparticles were produced at the optimum parameters with an average zeta potential of + 40.75 ± 1.22 mV, hydrodynamic size of 78 ± 22 nm, and a polydispersity value of 0.42 ± 0.06, respectively. gIONPs showed the highest inhibition zones of 24 mm and 21 mm in 250 mg/mL concentration against Gram-negative Escherichia Coli and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. Strong antibacterial activity was observed when compared with the standard antibiotics. The findings of the study revealed that the highly stable and antibacterial iron oxide nanoparticles can be synthesized through the adjustment of the reaction parameters by eliminating chemicals and increasing awareness of green chemistry.


Abstract In 2003, three British reserve army geologists contributed hydrogeological advice to assist planning for the Coalition invasion of Iraq by predicting likely groundwater and drilling conditions. In consequence, 521 Specialist Team Royal Engineers (Water Development) was deployed in theatre soon after hostilities began, to provide a water supply infrastructure for British troops. However, a speedy end to combat, and concentration of British troops in southern Iraq where surface waters were the primary source of supply, necessitated only four new boreholes. Elements of 521 STRE deployed to Afghanistan in 2006, again with hydrogeological guidance, to enhance water supplies for a Provincial Reconstruction Team and Forward Operating Base (FOB), and to develop a water supply infrastructure for the main British operational base at Camp Bastion. Local contractors were used to drill 11 wells, each to over 100 m depth, in Quaternary alluvium. Subsequently, hydrogeology was used to guide successful groundwater development at four out of five FOBs, involving 28 new boreholes, minimizing risks associated with water supply by road or helicopter, and to facilitate expansion of Camp Bastion to accommodate a surge of Coalition troops. Tasks in Afghanistan have generated the most significant British military use of hydrogeology in recent years.


Are you an avid walker looking to take the activity to the next level? Perhaps you're a runner who wants to find a way to end aching joints and muscles without giving up great, heart-pounding workouts. Or, maybe you're a cross-trainer in search of a new, low-impact workout that will burn calories and improve your fitness level. If you're serious about fitness and seeking a better way to workout, then Walking Fast is for you. This complete guide provides all the building blocks to get started on a fast walking program, and it contains easy-to-apply science that accomplished walkers can use to reach a new level of performance. Inside, you'll find - self-tests to help you evaluate your walking technique and goals; - 18 illustrated walking exercises designed to help you master the three-phase walking technique and eliminate trouble spots in your walking movement; - 29 walking workouts in five categories: easy, long, anaerobic threshold, aerobic capacity, and anaerobic capacity; and - sample programs for three levels of walkers. Walking Fast also contains an entire chapter devoted to racing, with information applicable to fast walkers just beginning to race as well as those looking for serious race walking competitions. Plus, a helpful appendix provides a list of race walking resources and tips about how to plug into the race walking network. Take the next step toward reaching your walking goals and get Walking Fast.


Cefonicid, a parenterally administered semisynthetic cephalosporin, produces high and sustained serum levels in humans. It is active in vitro against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, including beta-lactamase-producing strains. Therefore, the efficacy of cefonicid in treatment of men with uncomplicated gonococcal urethritis was evaluated in a two-phase study. Initially, 58 men were treated intramuscularly with 1 g of cefonicid. There were four failures among the 50 patients who could be evaluated. In the second phase (a double-blind study), 57 men received either 1.0 g of cefonicid or 4.8 x 10(6) units of procaine penicillin G plus 1.0 g of probenecid. Among 17 men treated with penicillin, there were two failures; among the 33 cefonicid-treated patients, there was only one failure. Thus, 78 (94%) of 83 patients receiving cefonicid were cured. Of the 85 pretreatment and four posttreatment isolates tested, 31 were inhibited by less than 0.0625 microgram of penicillin/ml and 87 were inhibited by less than 1.0 microgram/ml. Twenty-eight of the 89 isolates were inhibited by less than 0.0625 microgram of cefonicid/ml and 88, by less than 1.0 microgram of cefonicid/ml. It is concluded that 1.0 g of cefonicid given intramuscularly is effective therapy for uncomplicated gonococcal urethritis.


ISSN: 2319-7706 Volume 8 Number 06 (2019) Journal homepage: http://www.ijcmas.com Infection of a wound is the successful invasion and proliferation by one or more species of microorganisms anywhere within the body's sterile tissues, sometimes resulting in pus formation. Development of wound infection depends on the inter play of many factors. The breaking of the host protective layer, the skin, and thus disturbing the protective functions of the layer, will induce many cell types into the wound to initiate host response. An estimated 234 million surgical operations are performed worldwide every year, with the majority resulting in a wound that heals by primary intention. Significant morbidity can result if these wounds become infected. Not only does surgical-site infection (SSI) impact on a patient's recovery, it can also lead to increased hospital stay. With total rates of SSI in the developed world estimated at around 5 percent, SSI is a common and expensive health care problem. Although various patient factors, such as diabetes and steroid use, increase the likelihood of SSI, the type of surgical procedure and level of wound contamination also have a major influence. Prospective study was performed for a period of six months, from May 2015 to October 2015 the study was conducted in Government headquarters Hospital, Erode. Hospital ethical committees' permission was obtained before stating the research. The study included patients with wound infections such as ulcer wounds, diabetic foot ulcer wounds, post-operative wounds and was on antibiotic treatment. Design of data entry in a separate data entry form for incorporating patient details was designed. National mastitis council reports indicate that 25 – 40 percent of all clinical samples are negative on routine culturing. The possible reasons include, that the organism may no longer present and the clinical signs are due to by-products such as endotoxins. Another reason may be the antibiotics have killed the organism or suppressed organism numbers to unrecoverable levels (47%). The incidence of wound infection was more common in males (63%) than in females. The most prevalent organism isolated from different wound infections was found to be S. aureus (57%), followed by E. coli (23%), Proteus (19%), Pseudomonas (12%) and Klebsiella (8%). The reasons for the differences in antimicrobial drug–resistant patterns might be related to infection control practices or to timing of the introduction of resistant organisms. However, more research is needed to clarify these differences. K e y w o r d s Wound healing, Diabetic foot, Foot ulcer, S. aureus Accepted: 04 May 2019 Available Online: 10 June 2019 Article Info Int.J.Curr.Microbiol.App.Sci (2019) 8(6): 70-80


This paper addresses an NP-hard problem, called NTD-CB/R, whose solution is of importance to applications requiring one or more Quality of Service (QoS). Specifically, the problem calls for a network topology that meets two objectives, i.e., minimal cost and maximum bandwidth, subject to a predefined (s, t) reliability constraint. We approach the problem by converting it into one with a single objective. This is achieved via a ratio, called bcr, between network bandwidth and cost to measure the goodness of each topology, and by applying Lagrange relaxation. Then we propose a dynamic programming (DP) scheme, and propose a heuristic solution, called DPCB/R, to generate each topology using all of its n (s, t) paths. This paper also proposes three heuristic path orders that allow DPCB/R to generate and use only k≤n paths to reduce its time complexity while producing similar results. Extensive simulations using 125 benchmark networks with various sizes show the merits of the path-orders, and effectiveness of our approach. DPCB/R is able to generate 88% optimal results for the networks. Further, its non-optimal results have a bcr ratio, bandwidth, and cost of only up to 1.56%, 0.9%, and, 2.1% off from the optimal, respectively. Further, for a grid network that contains 299 paths it uses only 1.1-27% of the paths while producing a topology that is only 0.92% off from optimal, with respect to bcr metric.


This guide lists resources in the American University Library collections (online, print and microform formats) and free Web sites of use to Political Science research.


This study aims to examine factors affecting the use of e-learning during the Covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia. This survey study utilized a quantitative approach to understand the relationship variables by using SEM-PLS. An online questionnaire was distributed to collect information from respondents. A total of 250 questionnaires were gathered and 210 responses can be used for further analysis. The findings indicate that the students' intention in using e-learning was determined by several variables, including perceived enjoyment, students experience, computer anxiety, and perceived self-efficacy. These findings also confirm that both perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness can explain the students' intention in utilizing e-learning. The results provide an implication toward the importance of understanding factors of adoption of e-learning and how students can perceive e-learning as the response of the Covid-19 pandemic.


Is a formally designated "Anthropocene" a good idea? Human alterations of Earth's environments are pervasive. Visible changes include the built environment, conversion of forests and grasslands to agriculture, algal blooms, smog, and the siltation of dams and estuaries. Less obvious transformations include increases in ozone, carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4) in the atmosphere, and ocean acidification. Motivated by the pervasiveness of these alterations, Crutzen and Stoermer argued in 2000 that we live in the "Anthropocene," a time in which humans have replaced nature as the dominant environmental force on Earth (1). Many of these wide-ranging changes first emerged during the past 200 years and accelerated rapidly in the 20th century (2). Yet, a focus on the most recent changes risks overlooking pervasive human transformations of Earth's surface for thousands of years, with profound effects on the atmosphere, climate, and biodiversity.


The main objective of this paper is to develop a linear actuator for an accurate position control with a high force-to-mass ratio. A novel configuration is developed that has a double-sided NdFeB stator and a printed-circuit moving armature. A design methodology is presented, which is based upon the finite-element method magnetic-circuit analysis, and a simulation software for performance predictions. The latter is developed in a VisSim environment. For design optimization, a new criteria are introduced. A hardware-in-the loop control technique is developed and applied to the designed motor. Micrometer position accuracy is achieved experimentally. It is shown that the computational and experimental performance values are in good agreement


Recent studies have shown that closure of loop ileostomy reducing the length and cost of hospitalisation. By analysing our patients who have undergone closure, we aimed to determine the minimum duration of hospital stay and potential factors behind longer stays. A datab The time taken to discharge, morbidity, complications and re four patients underwent reversal of ileostomy between July 2015 and November 20 was 53 years (range, 22 appeared able to be discharged earlier. Thirty six patients (66.6%) had bowel function within 2 days. Eleven patients (20%) developed complicati obstruction/ileus (4%), anastomotic leak (4%) & enterocutaneous fistula (2%). Of the patients, 50% stayed longer than 5 days despite having no postoperative complications. The majority of patients undergoing loop ileostomy reversal at our institution can be discharged earlier than they are at present. Support in the community and the implementation of modified UK day protocols are suggested to help shorten patient's length of stay in hospit


The delay-reduction hypothesis of conditioned reinforcement states that the reinforcing value of a food-associated stimulus is determined by the delay to primary reinforcement signaled by the onset of the stimulus relative to the average delay to primary reinforcement in the conditioning situation. In contrast, most contemporary models of conditioned reinforcement strength posit that the reinforcing strength of a stimulus is some simple function only of the delay to primary reinforcement in the presence of stimulus. The delay-reduction hypothesis diverges from other conditioned reinforcement models in that it predicts that a fixed-duration food-paired stimulus will have different reinforcing values depending on the frequency of its presentation. In Experiment 1, pigeons' key pecks were reinforced according to concurrent-chains schedules with variable-interval 10-second and variable-interval 20-second terminal-link schedules. The initial-link schedule preceding the shorter terminal link was always variable-interval 60 seconds, and the initial-link schedule requirement preceding the longer terminal link was varied between 1 second and 60 seconds across conditions. In Experiment 2, the initial-link schedule preceding the longer of two terminal links was varied for each of three groups of pigeons. The terminal links of the concurrent chains for the three groups were variable-interval 10 seconds and 20 seconds, variable-interval 10 seconds and 30 seconds, and variable-interval 30 seconds and 50 seconds. In both experiments, preference for the shorter terminal link was either a bitonic function or an inverse function of the initial-link schedule preceding the longer terminal-link schedule. Consistent with the predictions of the delay-reduction hypothesis, the relative values of the terminal-link stimuli changed as a function of the overall frequency of primary reinforcement. Vaughan's (1985) melioration model, which was shown to be formally similar to Squires and Fantino's (1971) delay-reduction model, can be modified so as to predict these results without changing its underlying assumptions.


As the first and the most time consuming step of product recovery, disassembly is described as the systematic separation of constituent parts from end-of-life products through a series of operations. In this context, designing and balancing disassembly lines are critical in terms of the efficiency of product recovery. Recent research on disassembly line balancing (DLB) has focused on classical stations where only one worker is allocated. However, such a line results in larger space requirement and longer disassembly lead time. In this paper, disassembly line balancing problem (DLBP) with multi-manned stations is introduced to the relevant literature as a solution to overcome these disadvantages. A mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model and two novel framework heuristic algorithms are developed to minimise the number of workers and workstations. MILP model has been applied to a dishwasher disassembly system. The application results indicate the superiority of establishing multi-manned stations over classical disassembly system design with single-worker stations with shorter disassembly lead time (80.9%) and line length (60.2%). Moreover, the proposed heuristics have been compared on newly generated test problems (instances) for DLBP. The results validate that the heuristics provide acceptable solutions in a reasonable amount of time even for large-sized problems.


Abstract:  Given the high incidence of breast cancer in our society, it is common to encounter patients with macromastia who desire breast reduction after breast‐conserving therapy by lumpectomy and radiation. We hypothesize that radiation leads to a significant increase in postoperative complications after breast reduction. All patients with a history of unilateral breast lumpectomy and radiation who subsequently underwent bilateral breast reduction by a single surgeon from 2004 to 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. Outcomes including cellulitis, wound breakdown, seroma, and need for repeat operations were compared between the radiated and nonradiated breast. The Fisher's exact test was used for statistical analysis. Twelve patients (mean age, 57 years) underwent bilateral breast reduction a mean of 86 months after unilateral lumpectomy and radiation. The nonradiated breasts had no complications postoperatively. The radiated breasts had a significant increase in complications with a total of five breasts (42%, p < 0.04) having postoperative complications including cellulitis in two breasts, seroma requiring drainage in five breasts, two cases of fat necrosis, and one case of wound dehiscence. This resulted in two admissions for intravenous antibiotics and two repeat operative procedures. Additionally, three patients had significant breast asymmetry or contour deformities after reduction requiring operative revisions. Breast reduction after radiation leads to a significant increase in complications. Given this data, patients with macromastia undergoing breast conservation therapy for cancer should be considered for reduction at the time of lumpectomy and prior to radiation.


OBJECTIVE
To determine whether viable shiga-toxigenic Escherichia coli (STEC) O157 could be isolated from hide surface locations and the oral cavity of finished beef feedlot cattle.

DESIGN
Within-animal prevalence distribution survey.

ANIMALS
139 finished cattle in 4 pens in a feedlot in Nebraska; prevalence of fecal STEC O157 shedding ranged from 20 to > 90%.

PROCEDURE
Samples were collected from 7 sites from each animal: feces, oral cavity, and 5 hide surface locations (lumbar region, ventral aspect of the neck, ventral abdominal midline [ventrum], dorsal thoracic midline [back], and distal aspect of the left hind limb [hock]).

RESULTS
Viable STEC O157 were isolated from the oral cavity or 1 or more hide surfaces of 130 cattle, including 50 fecal isolation-negative cattle. Site-specific prevalence of STEC O157 was 74.8% for oral cavity samples, 73.4% for back samples, 62.6% for neck samples, 60.4% for fecal samples, 54.0% for flank samples, 51.1% for ventrum samples, and 41.0% for hock samples. Only 5 cattle tested negative for STEC O157 at all 7 sites. Multiple correspondence and cluster analyses demonstrated that bacterial culture of feces, oral cavity samples, and back samples detected most cattle with STEC O157.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Results suggest that viable STEC O157 may be isolated from the oral cavity, multiple hide surfaces, and feces of a high percentage of fed beef cattle and that bacterial culture of feces alone generally underestimates the percentage of fed beef cattle from which STEC O157 can be isolated.


Purpose Ocular hypertension is a significant risk factor for vision loss in glaucoma caused by the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). We investigated whether small heat shock proteins (sHsps) expressed in RGCs protect those cells against ocular hypertension in mice. Methods AAV2 vectors encoding genes for one of the following four human sHsps: HSPB1, HSPB4, HSPB5, or HSPB6 were constructed for RGC-specific expression. Ischemia/reperfusion was induced by elevating the intraocular pressure (IOP) to 120 mm Hg for one hour, followed by a rapid return to normal IOP. Microbeads (MB) were injected into the anterior chamber of mice to induce ocular hypertension. RGC death and glial activation were assessed by immunostaining for Brn3a, RBPMS, Iba1, and glial fibrillary acid protein in retinal flat mounts. RGC axonal defects were evaluated by anterograde transport of intravitreally injected cholera toxin-B. RGC function was assessed by pattern electroretinography. Results Among the sHsps, HspB1 offered the best protection against RGC death from ischemia/reperfusion injury in the mouse retina. Intravitreal administration of AAV2-HSPB1 either two weeks before or one week after instituting ocular hypertension resulted in significant prevention of RGC loss. The MB-injected mice showed RGC axonal transportation defects, but AAV2-HSPB1 administration significantly inhibited this defect. AAV2-HSPB1 prevented glial activation caused by ocular hypertension. More importantly, a single injection of AAV2-HSPB1 protected RGCs long-term in MB-injected eyes. Conclusions The administration of AAV2-HSPB1 inhibited RGC death and axonal transport defects and reduced glial activation in a mouse model of ocular hypertension. Translational Relevance Our results suggested that the intravitreal delivery of AAV2-HSPB1 could be developed as a gene therapy to prevent vision loss on a long-term basis in glaucoma patients.


SIR,-Dr. R. Lefever's letter (19 August, p. 475) echoes the widespread concern of both professional and lay users of our group of hospitals. His tribute to Dr. Gordon Signy and his laboratory is much appreciated by his colleagues. The comment of the laboratory's misplacement and the effect on the group, and St. Mary Abbots Hospital in particular, cannot go unheeded. The decision to build the new district general hospital on the St. Stephen's site was made nearly 15 years ago and has been the subject of considerable controversy ever since. Whether the choice was made to support the postgraduate complex development in the area, or the early staff appointments at St. Stephen's Hospital encouraged its development, or there was an over-all strategy plan which was obscure to us, it resulted in the provision of the major component of our acute general hospital unit on the diminutive five-acre site at the southernmost part of our future area health board. Owing, however, to insufficient development to date we cannot effectively concentrate all our acute facilities on this site, and in any case we intend to go on providing acute outpatient and day-time casualty facilities at St. Mary Abbots Hospital and may well continue to house some acute inpatient facilities there, other than E.N.T., geriatrics, and psychiatry. To this end we wish it to be widely known that near-equal outpatient and ancillary department facilities are offered at both hospitals and I do hope that local general practitioners and the public will continue to use St. Mary Abbots Hospital to its fullest capacity.-I am, etc., 0. A. N. HUSAIN Chairman, Group Medical Advisory Committee


concludes that the traditional order of Ezra before Nehemiah has less difficulties than a reversal of that order, and that it is only reasonable to place Ezra's date at 458 B.C. and Nehemiah's at 445 B.C. Though this work is but a brief treatment of the problem involved, it is quite carefully done, and has the value of causing a rethinking of a problem that has been largely neglected because of the discouraging plausibility of an ingenious reconstruction. W. H. Morton


MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in proper function and differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). We performed a systematic comparison of miRNA expression in undifferentiated vs. differentiating ESCs. We report that 138 miRNAs are increased on the induction of differentiation. We compared the entire list of candidate mRNA targets of up‐regulated miRNAs with that of mRNA down‐regulated in ESCs on induction of differentiation. Among the candidate targets emerging from this analysis, we found three genes, Smarca5, Jarid1b, and Sirt1, previously demonstrated to be involved in sustaining the undifferentiated phenotype in ESCs. On this basis, we first demonstrated that Smarca5 is a direct target of miR‐100, Jarid1b of miR‐137, and we also confirmed previously published data demonstrating that Sirt1 is a direct target of miR‐34a in a different context. The suppression of these three miRNAs by anti‐miRs caused the block of ESC differentiation induced by LIF withdrawal. On the other hand, the overexpression of the three miRNAs resulted in an altered expression of differentiation markers. These results demonstrate that miR‐34a, miR‐100, and miR‐137 are required for proper differentiation of mouse ESCs, and that they function in part by targeting Sirt1, Smarca5, and Jarid1b mRNAs.—Tarantino, C., Paolella, G., Cozzuto, L., Minopoli, G., Pastore, L., Parisi, S., Russo, T. miRNA 34a, 100, and 137 modulate differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells. FASEB J. 24, 3255–3263 (2010). www.fasebj.org


Humerus fracture is a disruption of normal architecture in humerus bone . This study was conducted to identify The Range Of Motion (ROM), muscle strength of arm and analyze the comparison of the ROM and muscle strength on humerus fracture patients between operative and non-operative treatment. This research used non-experimental study with cross-sectional design. Observed variables were Range of Motion and muscle strength each measured by goniometer and muscle strength scale, respectively. Comparing to these circumstances, there were significant difference in shoulder abduction, shoulder flexion, shoulder extension, elbow extension and elbow flexion between operative treatment patients and non-operative treatment patients at dr. Soebandi Hospital Jember. Keywords : humerus fracture, range of motion, muscle strength .


Abstract Ultrasound is being increasingly investigated for real-time target localization in image-guided interventions. Yet, in-vivo validation remains challenging due to the difficulty to obtain a reliable ground truth. For this purpose, real-time volumetric (4D) ultrasound imaging was performed simultaneously with electromagnetic localization of three wireless transponders implanted in the liver of a radiotherapy patient. 4D ultrasound and electromagnetic tracking were acquired at framerates of 12Hz and 8Hz, respectively, during free breathing over 8 min following treatment. The electromagnetic antenna was placed directly above and the ultrasound probe on the right side of the patient to visualize the liver transponders. It was possible to record 25.7 s of overlapping ultrasound and electromagnetic position data of one transponder. Good spatial alignment with 0.6 mm 3D root-mean-square error between both traces was achieved using a rigid landmark transform. However, data acquisition was impaired since the electromagnetic tracking highly influenced the ultrasound equipment and vice versa. High intensity noise streaks appeared in the ultrasound scan lines irrespective of the chosen frequency (1.7-3.3 MHz, 2/4 MHz harmonic). To allow for target visualization and tracking in the ultrasound volumes despite the artefacts, an online filter was designed where corrupted pixels in the newest ultrasound frame were replaced with non-corrupted pixels from preceding frames. Aside from these artefacts, the recorded electromagnetic tracking data was fragmented and only the transponder closest to the antenna could be detected over a limited period of six consecutive breathing cycles. This problem was most likely caused by interference from the metal holder of the ultrasound probe and was solved in a subsequent experiment using a 3D-printed non-metal probe fixation. Real-time wireless electromagnetic tracking was compared with 4D ultrasound imaging in-vivo for the first time. For stable tracking, large metal components need to be avoided during data acquisition and ultrasound filtering is required.


Scholars of international and comparative education have long endorsed the importance of context in conducting research. In this paper, I expand upon the theme to argue that just as educational policies and practices may be compromised in the process of transfer, so too may the research methodology used to draw inferences fail to resonate from one culture to another. In particular, I discuss some of the practical methodological challenges that I encountered while dealing with informed consent while conducting a research project in Hong Kong. I found that informed consent with its emphasis on individual autonomy was at odds with the norms of the largely collectivist, hierarchical, Confucian heritage culture of Hong Kong. Viewed through Western frameworks of understanding, the negation of informed consent has detrimental connotations as it compromises the fundamental concept of an individual's right to choose. However, I found that when viewed through a Confucian lens this was not a deliberate or intentional infringing of rights but an acceptable manifestation of familial and paternalistic relationships that guide inter-personal interactions in such societies.


This paper examines two groups of composers and discusses the commonality in their approach to using concrete sound materials and rhythm in their works. As a result of this commonality an examination of the ways in which these composers have expanded the electroacoustic language through the hybridisation of electronica and musique concrete techniques is undertaken. It will then be demonstrated how these works, whilst pushing at the boundaries of electroacoustic music can nevertheless be discussed and analysed with reference to Emmerson's language grid as originally proposed in The Relation of Language to Materials (1986: 17-39). It will be demonstrated how, with the advent of the sampler and proliferation of works utilizing concrete materials, Emmerson's language grid can be used as the basis for a wider discussion of electronic works.


Vertical MOSFETs are gaining importance for VLSI circuit integration and for reducing the feature size. They are continuously scaled down in channel length due to the increasing need for higher packing density and higher device speed. Also 3D compaction of circuits is possible using these transistors. In order to achieve as dense and fast as possible circuits several vertical MOSFETs using different technologies have been fabricated. In this paper, 120nm vertical n-channel MOSFET uniformly doped in silicon substrate and channel region is simulated using the ISE_TCAD software, developed by the Integrated Systems Engineering and compared with one of similar fabricated transistors from the literature [4]. The results show more than 92% match between the simulated and the practical devices in terms of terminal characteristics considering the fact that the ideal mobility models as well as the most suitable mesh condition are applied to the simulation flow. Tending to scale down the length of the vertical MOSFETs and observe the short channel effects, transistors with 80nm and 100nm channel length were also simulated. As expected, shrinking the channel length results in increasing the current and decreasing the threshold voltage as part of short channel effects. Other effects such as hot-carrier and substrate current for the three devices were investigated under the certain values of gate and source voltages.


In this study, microbiological and chemical properties of red mullet (Mullus surmuletus, L. 1758), treated by dry salting and stored for 120 days at 4 ± 1oC, were investigated. Samples were divided in two lots and put in glass (G) and in glazed crock (C) jars. Microbial load was low at 0 day and during a 120 day period; aerobic mesophilic, psychrophilic and alophilic/alotollerant bacteria counts increased during the first 7 days in both samples; then, a decrease occurred during the whole ripening period; total coliforms and yeast-mould counts were always low. Samples microbial load at 0 day showed a good quality of not processed fishes. pH value at 0 day was 6.65; then it decreased during ripening. Total volatile basic nitrogen and trimethylamine nitrogen values, at 0 day, were low (6,982 mg/100 g; 2,618 mg/100 g, respectively); during ripening the amounts slightly increased in both samples. Overall, a good samples stability during the whole ripening period was considered. Several volatile compounds were identified in all Mullus surmuletus specimens by SPME-GC-MS; in all the samples hexanal, heptanal and (Z)-4-heptanal, typical aroma compounds in salted fish, prevailed. Statistically significant (P< 0,05) differences between G and C and control sample (0 day) during ripening of salted mullet for chemical aspects were observed. The results, altogether, showed that dry salting process is useful to give stability to Mullus surmuletus. The jar material improved the development of typical aroma compounds and it could be proposed for a niche product made for use in a small and specialized, but profitable, market. The glass could be used for industrial production since it provides uniformity for aroma during the maturation.


Massive and water-rich planets should be ubiquitous in the universe. Many of these worlds are expected to be subject to important irradiation from their host star, and display supercritical water layers surrounded by extended steam atmospheres. Irradiated ocean planets with such inflated hydrospheres have been recently shown to be good candidates for matching the mass–radius distribution of sub-Neptunes. Here we describe a model that computes a realistic structure for water-rich planets by combining an interior model with an updated equation of state (EOS) for water, and an atmospheric model that takes into account radiative transfer. We find that the use of inappropriate EOSs can lead to the overestimation of the planetary radius by up to ∼10%, depending on the planet size and composition. Our model has been applied to the GJ 9827 system as a test case and indicates Earth- or Venus-like interiors for planets b and c, respectively. Planet d could be an irradiated ocean planet with a water mass fraction (WMF) of ∼20% ± 10%. We also provide fits for the mass–radius relationships, allowing one to directly retrieve a wide range of planetary compositions, without the requirement to run the model. Our calculations finally suggest that highly irradiated planets lost their H/He content through atmospheric loss processes, and that the leftover material led to either super-Earths or sub-Neptunes, depending on the WMF.


The objective of this research was to examine in detail the migration of juvenile spring chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) in the Willamette River, Oregon. The authors wanted to determine characteristics of seaward migration of spring chinook smolts in relation to the oxygen supplementation practices at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Willamette Hatchery and use this information to strengthen the design of the oxygen supplementation project. There is little information available on the effects of oxygen supplementation at hatcheries on the migratory characteristics of juvenile salmon. Such information is required to assess the use of oxygen supplementation as a means of improving hatchery production, its effect on imprinting of juveniles, and finally the return of adults. In the event that oxygen supplementation provides for improved production and survival of juvenile chinook salmon at Willamette Hatchery, background information on the migration characteristics of these fish will be required to effectively utilize the increased production within the goals of the Willamette Fish Management Plan. Furthermore this technology may be instrumental in the goal of doubling the runs of spring Chinook salmon in the Columbia River. While evaluation of success is dependent on evaluation of the return of adults with codedmore » wire tags, examination of the migratory characteristics of hatchery smolts may prove to be equally informative. Through this research it is possible to determine the rate at which individuals from various oxygenation treatment groups leave the Willamette River system, a factor which may be strongly related to adult return rate.« less


We propose a method that allows for dexterous manipulation of an object by exploiting contact with an external surface. The technique requires a compliant grasp, enabling the motion of the object in the robot hand while allowing for significant contact forces to be present on the external surface. We show that under this type of grasp it is possible to estimate and control the pose of the object with respect to the surface, leveraging the trade-off between force control and manipulative dexterity. The method is independent of the object geometry, relying only on the assumptions of type of grasp and the existence of a contact with a known surface. Furthermore, by adapting the estimated grasp compliance, the method can handle unmodelled effects. The approach is demonstrated and evaluated with experiments on object pose regulation and pivoting against a rigid surface, where a mechanical spring provides the required compliance.


Objective. To put forward a new concept — Blau arteritis, a form of large-vessel vasculitis phenotypically related to Takayasu disease but genetically and clinically part of an expanded phenotype of Blau syndrome. Methods. We provide a clinical description of a new case and summarize previously published cases of arteritis associated with Blau syndrome. Genetic testing was performed by direct sequencing of exon 4 of the NOD2 gene. Results. The case described and those reviewed from the literature demonstrate the emerging phenotype of Takayasu-like arteritis in patients with Blau syndrome. Although most patients described to date depict an otherwise classic Blau syndrome phenotype, the current case was atypical in that the predominant features were arteritic. A novel substitution, G464W, in a highly conserved position near the nucleotide oligomerization domain of the NOD2 protein is also described. Conclusion. Blau arteritis can be observed in the context of both typical and atypical (incomplete) Blau syndrome. The associated mutation in the NOD2 gene raises the question of the potential importance of this gene among patients with "primary" forms of Takayasu arteritis.


Background Occult left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic dysfunction is not uncommon among young adults with type I diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Early detection in the subclinical phase may enhance different preventive strategies. The two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) is a novel and promising tool for the detection of early changes in LV and left atrial (LA) myocardial performance. Aim To detect early LV and LA dysfunction in young adults with T1DM by 2D-STE and its correlation with their functional capacity using the treadmill stress test. Patients and methods Thirty patients with T1DM and 15 nondiabetics acting as controls were enrolled. Conventional 2D echo, tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), and 2D-STE were done. Peak LV global longitudinal strain and peak LA global longitudinal strain were obtained. The functional capacity was assessed using the treadmill stress test. Results A statistically significant decrease in the average peak LV global longitudinal strain was found in diabetics compared to nondiabetics (15.8±6.8 and 23.9±2.7, respectively; P<0.001) and in LV TDI strain rate (19.7±5.4 and 23±2.7, respectively; P<0.05) were found. A statistically significant peak atrial longitudinal strain decrease in the average in diabetics compared to nondiabetics (34.40±12.9 and 42.3±3.9, respectively, P<0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to the functional capacity of the parameters. Conclusion Since T1DM is associated with early (subclinical) LV and LA dysfunction, 2D-STE becomes an important and sensitive tool for an early detection of subclinical LV and LA myocardial dysfunction.


We present a method for sensitive and tunable particle sorting that we term virtual deterministic lateral displacement (vDLD). The vDLD system is composed of a set of interdigital transducers (IDTs) within a microfluidic chamber that produce a force field at an angle to the flow direction. Particles above a critical diameter, a function of the force induced by viscous drag and the force field, are displaced laterally along the minimum force potential lines, while smaller particles continue in the direction of the fluid flow without substantial perturbations. We demonstrate the effective separation of particles in a continuous-flow system with size sensitivity comparable or better than other previously reported microfluidic separation techniques. Separation of 5.0 μm from 6.6 μm, 6.6 μm from 7.0 μm and 300 nm from 500 nm particles are all achieved using the same device architecture. With the high sensitivity and flexibility vDLD affords we expect to find application in a wide variety of microfluidic platforms.


Iodothyronine 5'-deiodinase activity appears to be a type I enzyme in bovine brown adipose tissue, on the basis of its high Km for 3,3',5'-tri-iodothyronine ('reverse T3') (in the micromolar range) and sensitivity to propylthiouracil inhibition. This enzyme activity is already detectable in perirenal adipose tissue of bovine fetuses in the second month of gestation, reaches peak values around the seventh month of fetal life, declines before birth, becomes lower after parturition and finally undetectable in the adult cow. Iodothyronine 5'-deiodinase activity is present in the pericardic, peritoneal and intermuscular adipose depots of the neonatal calf, but it is always undetectable in the subcutaneous adipose tissue. It is concluded that iodothyronine 5'-deiodinase is a specific feature of brown fat in the bovine species that is not shared by white adipose tissue. white adipose tissue. Peak values of 5'-deiodinating activity appear as an early event in the prenatal differentiation programme of bovine brown-fat cells as they occur when uncoupling-protein-gene expression first starts.


For a general class of graded-index fiber profiles, modal propagation constants and group delays were previously evaluated asymptotically to O(k−9) by using the systematic calculation scheme of evanescent wave theory. Here, the numerical results obtained directly are improved by using a nonlinear transformation technique developed by Shanks. This technique extracts information from the diverging as well as converging part of an asymptotic series, whereas the direct method utilizes the converging part alone. We obtain accurate results for a profile far from parabolic shape as well as for one of near-parabolic shape. For the profile far from parabolic shape the results quantify the error in group delay for the WKB technique for the lowest-order mode to approximately 30 ps/km. For high-order modes the WKB results agree with the transformed results.


We understand little about the factors that determine and maintain local species diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), the reasons why a single plant has multiple AMF partners, and how that diversity influences host plant performance. The extent to which co-occurring AMF species occupy different niche space, based on their ability to tolerate different soil conditions or differentially promote host plant growth in those differing conditions, offers possible explanations for the maintenance of diversity. AMF community composition was examined in relation to soil variability in a naturally metalliferous serpentine grassland and along a Cu, Cd, Pb, and Zn soil contamination gradient. Both field surveys demonstrated that AMF community composition is strongly influenced by soil factors and provide evidence that local diversity of AMF communities is at least partially maintained by environmental niche partitioning among fungal species. Because there is some evidence that AMF species can be non-additive in their effects on plant growth, the appropriate measure of AMF function may be how much plant growth is affected when that particular AMF species is deleted from the community. Greenhouse experiments using this deletion approach, and the traditional approach of evaluating host plant growth with a single AMF species, were performed. The experiments involved two grass species: Andropogon gerardii and Sorhastrum nutans and a subset of their natural AMF community grown in soils differing in nitrogen, phosphorus, and nickel, which is naturally high in the plants' native serpentine soils. This deletion method revealed that functional redundancy, with regards to host plant growth promotion, was the most common consequence of multiple species infecting one root. Functional complementarity and functional synergy, which may help explain why plants support multiple partners, were also demonstrated. Each of these interactions was found to be soil context dependent for most fungal species. These results demonstrate that the composition of the AMF community colonizing a host plant is important for plant performance and the consequences of colonization change with soil condition. They also suggest an explanation for why any one plant species supports several species of these fungi. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Biology First Advisor Brenda B. Casper This dissertation is available at ScholarlyCommons: http://repository.upenn.edu/edissertations/55


Gene expression is inherently noisy, but little is known about whether noise affects cell function or, if so, how and by how much. Here I present a theoretical framework to quantify the fitness costs of gene expression noise and identify the evolutionary and synthetic targets of noise control. I find that gene expression noise reduces fitness by slowing the average rate of nutrient uptake and protein synthesis. This is a direct consequence of the hyperbolic (Michaelis-Menten) kinetics of most biological reactions, which I show cause "hyperbolic filtering", a process that diminishes both the average rate and noise propagation of stochastic reactions. Interestingly, I find that transcriptional noise directly slows growth by slowing the average translation rate. Perhaps surprisingly, this is the largest fitness cost of transcriptional noise since translation strongly filters mRNA noise, making protein noise largely independent of transcriptional noise, consistent with empirical data. Translation, not transcription, then, is the primary target of protein noise control. Paradoxically, selection for protein-noise control favors increased ribosome-mRNA binding affinity, even though this increases translational bursting. However, I find that the efficacy of selection to suppress noise decays faster than linearly with increasing cell size. This predicts a stark, cell-size-mediated taxonomic divide in selection pressures for noise control: small unicellular species, including most prokaryotes, face fairly strong selection to suppress gene expression noise, whereas larger unicells, including most eukaryotes, experience extremely weak selection. I suggest that this taxonomic discrepancy in selection efficacy contributed to the evolution of greater gene-regulatory complexity in eukaryotes. ARTICLE SUMMARY Gene expression is a probabilistic process, resulting in random variation in mRNA and protein abundance among cells called "noise". Understanding how noise affects cell function is a major problem in biology. Here I present theory demonstrating that gene expression noise slows the average rate of cell division. Furthermore, by modeling stochastic gene expression with non-linearity, I identify novel mechanisms of cellular robustness. However, I find that the cost of noise, and therefore the strength of selection favoring robustness, decays faster than linearly with increasing cell size. This may help explain the vast differences in gene-regulatory complexity between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.


Two-dimensional nanomaterials are becoming the focus of intensive research due to their novel physical properties and the potential applications in nanodevices. We define a quantum spectrum function using the eigenvalues and the eigenfunctions in the system of two-dimensional nanomaterials. We find that the Fourier transform of the quantum spectrum function reveals a lot of information of the classical orbits from one point to another for a particle in the two-dimensional nanomaterials. These results give new evidence about the classical-quantum correspondence. All the methods and results can be used in a lot of other systems, including some one-dimensional and three-dimensional systems. The researches about these systems are very important in the field of applied science.


Coutinho et al1 have performed a timely post hoc analysis consisting of a patient population from 2 large, prospective, core laboratory–adjudicated trials: Solitaire With the Intention for Thrombectomy (SWIFT) and Solitaire Flow Restoration Thrombectomy for Acute Revascularization (STAR), and their report appears in this issue of JAMA Neurology. Given that 85% of the patients in mechanical thrombectomy (MT) trials received intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), they highlight an important group of patients in whom MT was successful without IVT. The recent IVT and MT trials have clearly established the new standard in therapy for proximal anterior circulation occlusions.2-6 A key question that has arisen is whether there is any additional benefit to IVT in these patients undergoing MT. Although there are hypothetical benefits, such as increased recanalization and thrombolysis of smaller clot fragments, there are also hypothetical concerns regarding increased risk for intracranial hemorrhage and greater fragmentation with reduction in MT effectiveness for more complete recanalization, including Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 3 flow. A few studies,7,8 both prospective and retrospective, have attempted to introduce this question but are significantly limited by design issues, sample size, and other methodologic considerations. Although we believe that this is an ideal question for a prospective randomized clinical trial, the current study provides the largest independent core laboratory with a clinical end point committee– or a data and safety monitoring board–adjudicated prospective, multicenter data set that highlights the question and provides critical data that can be used to design a definitive randomized clinical trial. We concur with the authors in their discussion of limitations that this data set should be interpreted with caution in regard to increased risk for symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage in the IVT arm as well as imbalances, such as with atrial fibrillation, the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, and procedural vasospasm.


Author(s): Evert, Eric | Advisor(s): Helton, J. William | Abstract: Let $\bbS (\cH_n)^g$ denote $g$-tuples of self-adjoint operators on a Hilbert space $\cH_n$ with $\dim \cH_n=n$. Given tuples $X=(X_1, \dots, X_g) \in \bbS (\cH_{n_1})^g$ and $Y=(Y_1, \dots, Y_g) \in \bbS (\cH_{n_2})^g$, a matrix convex combination of $X$ and $Y$ is a sum of the form\[V_1^* XV_1+V_2^* Y V_2 \quad \quad \quad V_1^* V_1+V_2^* V_2=I_n\]where $V_1:\cH_n \to \cH_{n_1}$ and $V_2: \cH_{n} \to \cH_{n_2}$ are contractions. Matrix convex sets are sets which are closed under matrix convex combinations. A key feature of matrix convex combinations is that the $g$-tuples $X, Y$, and $V_1^* XV_1+V_2^* Y V_2$ do not need to have the same size. As a result, matrix convex sets are a dimension-free analog of convex sets.While in the classical setting there is only one notion of an extreme point, there are three main notions of extreme points for matrix convex sets: ordinary, matrix, and absolute extreme points. Absolute extreme points are closely related to the classical Arveson boundary.A central goal in the theory of matrix convex sets is to determine if one of these types of extreme points for a matrix convex set minimally recovers the set through matrix convex combinations. Chapter \ref{ch:MatConvWOAbs} shows the existence of a class of closed bounded matrix convex sets which do not have absolute extreme points. The sets we consider are noncommutative sets, $K_X$, formed by taking matrix convex combinations of a single tuple $X$. If $X$ is a tuple of compact operators with no nontrivial finite dimensional reducing subspaces and $0$ is in the finite interior of $K_X$, then $K_X$ is a closed bounded matrix convex set with no absolute extreme points.In Chapter \ref{ch:ArvSpanSpec}, we show that every real compact matrix convex set which is defined by a linear matrix inequality is the matrix convex hull of its absolute extreme points, and that the absolute extreme points are a minimal set with this property. Furthermore, we give an algorithm which expresses a tuple as a matrix convex combination of absolute extreme points with optimal bounds. Similar results hold when working over the field of complex numbers rather than the reals.


In North American mathematics education, many practitioners highlight a disparity in achievement between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, and claim that incorporating Indigenous perspectives in mathematics provides a more inclusive teaching approach. However, our analysis shows that there is a stream of North American practitioners who do not use anti-oppressive or decolonizing discourses, including those who claim to be motivated by social justice education. By avoiding or not emphasizing colonization, ongoing racism, and oppression in Indigenous mathematics education, these practitioners are perpetuating a false sense of the origins of inequality. Furthermore, the quest for Indigenous cultural connections in mathematics sometimes has consequences such as placing blame on Indigenous peoples for not being authorities on their cultures, perpetuating stereotypes, homogenizing Indigenous cultures while reducing their history and knowledge to superficial artifacts, and preserving a sense of the inferiority of Indigenous peoples when it comes to understanding and learning mathematics.


The six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a useful tool to predict outcomes in patients with advanced lung diseases. Greater distance walked has been shown to have independent prognostic value. We reviewed the medical records of 164 patients with advanced lung disease who underwent lung transplant evaluation. Results of the 6MWT (distance walked, oxygen required to maintain oxygen saturation >90%, and gait speed) were recorded and analyzed with respect to mortality. 6MWT mean oxygen (O2) flow via nasal cannula was 3.5±3.7 1/min. The distance walked in meters (m) and percent predicted distance were inversely associated with mortality, hazard ratio (HR): 0.995 per meter (95% CI 0.992–0.998) for walk distance in meters and 0.970 per % predicted distance (95% CI 0.950–0.990). Patients who walked <200 meters [HR: 2.1 (95% CI 1.1–4.0)] or <45% of predicted, HR: 2.7 (95% CI 1.2–5.7) had higher mortality. O2 flow during the test had a direct association with mortality (HR: 1.1 per L/min (95% CI 1.0–1.2). In multivariate analysis, O2 flow >3.5 L/min remained predictive of mortality, HR: 1.1 per 1/min (95% CI 1.0–1.2). Gait speed was higher in patients who survived through follow-up compared to patients who died (mean 0.83±0.35 m/s vs 0.69±0.33 m/s, p=0.03). Gait speed >0.8 m/s was a predictor of survival, HR 3.4 (1.1, 10.6). In summary, distance walked and O2 flow during the 6MWT were predictors of mortality in patients with advanced lung disease. Patients who required more than 3.5 1/m of O2 to maintain oxygen saturation >90% had a higher mortality. Faster gait speed during the 6MWT was also associated with better survival.


ABSTRACT: I explore the role of hypernorms in the Integrative Social Contracts Theory (ISCT) of Thomas Donaldson and Thomas W. Dunfee, who suggested that hypernorms are a necessary condition for the rejection of cultural relativism and justification of moral norms within and across social communities. Hypernorms are, thus, a significant part of a conception of international business ethics. I highlight philosophical problems that emerge in attempts to identify and justify hypernorms. These problems have not been sufficiently addressed in the ISCT; therefore, I will discuss the discourse–ethical contributions of contemporary German philosophers toward resolving the justification problem with regards to universal norms. Discourse ethics builds on the linguistic and the pragmatic turns in philosophy and develops procedural rules for the assessment of norms. I explore variants of discourse ethics with regards to their concept of justification and discuss the implications of discourse ethical procedures for the justification of norms and actions.


BACKGROUND
A rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a separation of the neurosensory retina from the retinal pigment epithelium caused by a full-thickness break associated with vitreous traction. While pneumatic retinopexy (PR), scleral buckle (SB), and vitrectomy are all well-received surgical interventions for eyes with RRD, their relative effectiveness has remained controversial.

OBJECTIVES
To assess the effectiveness and safety of PR versus SB or PR versus a combination treatment of SB and vitrectomy for people with RRD and to summarize any data on economic measures and quality of life.

SEARCH METHODS
We searched CENTRAL; which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register; 2021, Issue 3); Ovid MEDLINE; Ovid Embase; and four other databases on 11 March 2021. We used no date or language restrictions in the electronic searches for trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA
We included all randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing the effectiveness of PR versus SB (with or without vitrectomy) for eyes with RRD.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
After screening for eligibility, two review authors independently extracted study characteristics, methods, and outcomes. We followed systematic review standards as set by Cochrane.

MAIN RESULTS
In this update, we identified and included one new randomized controlled trial. Together with two trials from the 2015 version of the review, we included three trials (276 eyes of 274 participants) comparing the effectiveness of PR versus SB. None compared PR versus a combined treatment of SB and vitrectomy.  Of the three trials, one was a small study (published in 1996) with 20 participants (20 eyes) enrolled in Ireland and followed for a mean of 16 months; the second (published in 1989) included 196 participants (198 eyes) in the US followed for at least six months, and the third (published in 2021) was conducted in Italy and enrolled 58 participants (58 eyes) with a follow-up of 12 months. Overall, poor reporting quality resulted in unclear or high risks of bias.  We found low-certainty evidence that PR may achieve retinal reattachment slightly less often than SB (risk ratio [RR] 0.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.81 to 1.02; I2 = 0%; 3 studies, 276 eyes). Eyes undergoing PR may also display a higher risk of recurrent retinal detachment (low-certainty evidence), but the RR estimates were very imprecise (RR 1.70, 95% CI 0.97 to 2.98; I2 = 0%; 3 studies, 276 eyes). All three studies described the final visual acuity (VA) after the two procedures. However, the results were reported using different metrics and could not be combined. One study (196 participants) reported the proportion of eyes with a final VA of 20/40 or greater and favored PR (RR 1.31, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.65; low-certainty evidence), whereas in the 2021 study, both groups showed an improvement in final VA and there was no evidence of a difference between the two (mean difference [MD] -0.03, 95% CI -0.25 to 0.19; low-certainty evidence). No study reported data on quality of life or economic measures. Postoperative safety outcomes generally favored PR versus SB (low/very low-certainty evidence); however, there was considerable uncertainty regarding the risk of any operative ocular adverse events (RR 0.55 CI 0.28 to 1.11; 276 eyes), glaucoma (RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.46; 198 eyes), macular pucker (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.20 to 2.11; 256 eyes), proliferative vitreoretinopathy (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.30 to 2.96; 276 eyes), and persistent diplopia (RR 0.24, 95% CI 0.03 to 2.09; 256 eyes). Eyes undergoing PR experienced fewer postoperative cataract developments (RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.75; 153 eyes), choroidal detachments (RR 0.17, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.57; 198 eyes), and myopic shift (RR 0.03, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.10; 256 eyes).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
The current update confirms the findings of the previous review. PR may result in lower rates of reattachment and higher rates of recurrence than SB, but carries a lower burden of postoperative complications. The effects of these two procedures on other functional outcomes and quality of life remain uncertain. The available evidence remains insufficient and of low quality.


Postcholecystectomy hepatic extravascular leakage in the operative bed can mimic biliary leakage if a Tc-99m DISIDA study is performed in the first few days after surgery. In the case being reported here, the gallbladder was located partially intrahepatic and was not inflamed at the time of surgery. A Tc-99m DISIDA study was requested 5 days after surgery to evaluate biliary patency and to exclude biliary leakage. Increased uptake in the gallbladder fossa inside the liver at the operative site was detected in the early period of the study. It could be differentiated from biliary leakage by three important features: the early appearance of radioactivity in the first 30 minutes, the intensity of the abnormal focal increased activity decreased with time during the 60 minutes of the dynamic acquisition, and this activity did not increase or move with time. In true leakage, the abnormal activity should become more intense, should increase in size, and should progressively spread from its original site.


The guest-dependent thermal expansion behavior of the nanoporous Prussian Blue analogues MIIPtIV(CN)6.x{H2O} (0 </= x </= 2; M = Zn, Cd) has been investigated using variable temperature single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The dehydrated phases MIIPtIV(CN)6 were found to exhibit negative thermal expansion, attributed to thermal population of low energy transverse vibrations of the bridging cyanide ligands. The presence of guest molecules within the framework pore system was found capable of dampening the effect of these transverse vibrational modes. The guest-loaded ZnII phase, in which the available pore volume is commensurate with the volume occupied by individual water molecules, possesses a considerably higher coefficient of thermal expansion, with the material switching from positive to negative thermal expansion behavior upon guest removal.


The problem of 2D angle estimation (azimuth and elevation) of multiple plane waves incident on a uniform circular array (UCA) of antennas is considered. Two eigenstructure-based estimation algorithms that operate in beamspace and employ phase mode excitation-based beamformers have been developed. The first, UCA-RB-MUSIC, is a beamspace version of MUSIC that offers numerous advantages over element space operation, including reduced computation, as subspace estimates are obtained via real-valued eigendecompositions, enhanced performance in correlated source scenarios due to the attendant forward-backward averaging effect, and the applicability of Root-MUSIC. The second, UCA-ESPRIT, represents a significant advance in the area of 2D angle estimation. It is a novel closed-form algorithm that provides automatically paired source azimuth and elevation estimates. With UCA-ESPRIT, the eigenvalues of a matrix have the form /spl mu//sub i/=sin /spl theta//sub i/e/sup j/spl phi/(i/), where /spl theta//sub i/ and /spl phi//sub i/ are the elevation and azimuth angles, respectively. Expensive search procedures being thus avoided, UCA-ESPRIT is superior to existing 2D angle estimation algorithms with respect to computational complexity. Finally, asymptotic expressions for the variances of the element space MUSIC and UCA-RB-MUSIC estimators for the 2D scenario have been derived. Results of simulations that compare UCA-RB-MUSIC and UCA-ESPRIT and also validate the theoretical performance expressions are presented. >


NASA is developing a new crewed vehicle and desires a lower risk of injury compared to automotive or commercial aviation. Through an agreement with the National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc. (NASCAR®), an analysis of NASCAR impacts was performed to develop new injury assessment reference values (IARV) that may be more relevant to NASA's context of vehicle landing operations. Head IARVs associated with race car impacts were investigated by analyzing all NASCAR recorded impact data for the 2002-2008 race seasons. From the 4015 impact files, 274 impacts were selected for numerical simulation using a custom NASCAR restraint system and Hybrid III 50th percentile male Finite Element Model (FEM) in LS-DYNA. Head injury occurred in 27 of the 274 selected impacts, and all of the head injuries were mild concussions with or without brief loss of consciousness. The 247 noninjury impacts selected were representative of the range of crash dynamics present in the total set of impacts. The probability of head injury was estimated for each metric using an ordered probit regression analysis. Four metrics had good correlation with the head injury data: head resultant acceleration, head change in velocity, HIC 15, and HIC 36. For a 5% risk of AIS≥1/AIS≥2 head injuries, the following IARVs were found: 121.3/133.2 G (head resultant acceleration), 20.3/22.0 m/s (head change in velocity), 1,156/1,347 (HIC 15), and 1,152/1,342 (HIC 36) respectively. Based on the results of this study, further analysis of additional datasets is recommended before applying these results to future NASA vehicles.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of our study was to analyze the aesthetic and functional outcome in the radial forearm free flap donor site using a simple split thickness skin grafting (STSG) closure compared with the use of dermal scaffold supporting the STSG closure.

METHODS
The study analyzed 18 patients, divided in 2 groups based on the donor site closure modality. In STSG group, a simple STSG was used to cover the defect. In the DS + STSG group, the defect was covered by the use of dermal substitute (MatriDerm) supporting the STSG. Groups were compared on the following outcome variable: scar status; hand function; circumferences at most proximal and most distal point of the graft. All patients were followed up 1, 6, and 12 months post-operative.

RESULTS
Nine patients from STSG group showed a difference in circumference between the operated and contralateral limbs respectively of 2.9 mm proximal and 1.2 mm distal; in the 9 patients of DS + STGS group the difference was respectively of 1.2 mm proximal and 1.3 mm distal. Welch unequal variances t-test demonstrated statistical significance of the values with P < 0.004 (P < 0.5). The average VSS was 1.82 ± 0.2 for STSG group and 1.75 ± 0.2 for DS + STGS group. The DASH score was 21.8% in STSG group and 19.4% in DS + STGS group.

CONCLUSION
Our study shows that patients treated with Matriderm + STSG obtained a better result both in esthetic and functional outcomes.


A subset $A$ of $\mathbb{Z}^n$ is called a weak antichain if it does not contain two elements $x$ and $y$ satisfying $x_i<y_i$ for all $i$. Engel, Mitsis, Pelekis and Reiher showed that for any weak antichain $A$, the sum of the sizes of its $(n-1)$-dimensional projections must be at least as large as its size $|A|$. They asked what the smallest possible value of the gap between these two quantities is in terms of  $|A|$. We answer this question by giving an explicit weak antichain attaining this minimum for each possible value of $|A|$. In particular, we show that sets of the form $$A_N=\{x\in\mathbb{Z}^n: 0\leq x_j\leq N-1 \textrm{ for all $j$ and } x_i=0\textrm{ for some $i$}\}$$ minimise the gap among weak antichains of size $|A_N|$.


The purpose of this study was to ergonomically evaluate the pre-cut tape as compared to the conventional roll tape. In order to achieve that purpose, a full-scale ergonomic evaluation was performed. A factorial experiment was performed with two tape types (pre-cut and conventional), two types of dispensers (portable and table dispensers), two dispenser positions (horizontal and vertical), and two types of taping orientation directions (horizontal and vertical). Thirty subjects representing three age groups (young, middle, and old) were chosen to participate in the study. Continuous recording of the hand deviation (ulnar and radial) and hand flexion extension angles using a Thought Technology goniometer and the Flex-comp software was performed during the course of the study. Also the time to finish the task of taping was recorded using the Flex-comp software. The study results showed that the mean deviation angle associated with the pre-cut tape is less than that of conventional roll tape. Also, it was found that the pre-cut tape appears to cause more wrist extension than the roll tape. Further, the pre-cut tape appears to have less variability in wrist motions indicated by lower standard deviation of both the flexion-extension, and radial-ulnar deviation. The pre-cut tape also involved lower magnitude of peak deviation and flexion angles. Finally, the time needed to complete the task of taping with the pre-cut tape was found to be shorter than that with the roll tape. Design implications of the findings are discussed.