We establish a precise characterisation of 4-uniform hypergraphs with minimum codegree close to n/2 which contain a Hamilton 2-cycle. As an immediate corollary we identify the exact Dirac threshold for Hamilton 2-cycles in 4-uniform hypergraphs. Moreover, by derandomising the proof of our characterisation we provide a polynomial-time algorithm which, given a 4-uniform hypergraph H with minimum codegree close to n/2, either finds a Hamilton 2-cycle in H or provides a certificate that no such cycle exists. This surprising result stands in contrast to the graph setting, in which below the Dirac threshold it is NP-hard to determine if a graph is Hamiltonian. We also consider tight Hamilton cycles in k-uniform hypergraphs H for k ≥ 3, giving a series of reductions to show that it is NP-hard to determine whether a k-uniform hypergraph H with minimum degree δ(H) ≥ 1 2 |V (H)| − O(1) contains a tight Hamilton cycle. It is therefore unlikely that a similar characterisation can be obtained for tight Hamilton cycles.


The La (SS-B) autoimmune antigen is an RNA-binding protein that is present in both nucleus and cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. The spectrum of RNAs that interact with the La antigen includes species which also bind to the interferon-inducible protein kinase PKR. We have investigated whether the La antigen can regulate the activity of PKR and have observed that both the autophosphorylation of the protein kinase that accompanies its activation by dsRNA and the dsRNA-dependent phosphorylation of the alpha subunit of polypeptide chain initiation factor eIF-2 by PKR are inhibited in the presence of recombinant La antigen. This inhibition is partially relieved at higher concentrations of dsRNA. Once activated by dsRNA the protein kinase activity of PKR is insensitive to the La antigen. We have demonstrated by a filter binding assay that La is a dsRNA binding protein. Furthermore, when recombinant La is incubated with a 900 bp synthetic dsRNA or with naturally occurring reovirus dsRNA it converts these substrates to single-stranded forms. We conclude that the La antigen inhibits the dsRNA-dependent activation of PKR by binding and unwinding dsRNA and that it may therefore play a role in the regulation of this protein kinase in interferon-treated or virus-infected cells.


The method of lovastatine and mevinolinic acid known as competitive inhibitors of HMG-CoA-reductase and produced by micromycetes was elaborated. The inhibitors from diluted water solutions were fully absorbed on Diapak C16 patrons. The rate of inhibitors elution from the patrones was more than 95 per cent. Patrons may be used for concentration of lovastatine group inhibitors from the culture media. Inhibitors synthesis by the Penicillium citrinum 89 was investigated in dynamics with the use of Diapak C16 patrones. It was shown that UV-spectrum of inhibitor produced by P. citrinum 89 was identical with compactin spectrum and had absorbance maximum at 230, 237 and 247 nm.


Transparent optical circuit switching can improve the aggregate bandwidth, scalability, and cost of data center networks provided, it can meet the performance requirements on switching speed, port count, and optical efficiency. Here, we examine the theoretical scaling limits of transparent nonblocking optical switches based on MEMS electrostatic tilt mirror devices. Using physical optics and electromechanics, we present a first principles analysis of how the response speeds of a set of canonical devices scale as a function of switch port count, crosstalk, and insertion loss. Our model indicates that the optimal actuator design (parallel plate versus vertically offset comb) and actuation method (digital versus analog) changes as a function of switch port count. It also suggests that conventional switch topologies do not allow a favorable tradeoff between switching speed and optical efficiency or crosstalk. However, high switching speeds can be achieved by multistage switch architectures such as the two examples we describe, a multiport wavelength switch and a wavelength-independent space switch.


Abraham Zapruder's 26-second film of the assassination of John F. Kennedy is an indisputably unique piece of cinema. Despite its incredible currency in the world of national political history, and the shadowy world of conspiracy, it has a checkered past with regards to its assimilation into the discourse of film studies. Looked at, variably, as a piece of documentary, reportage or abstract fragment, it has been discussed largely for its cultural, historical or legal impact. This dissertation will chart its deeper implications when considered as a discrete film text and theoretical object, and will contend that, in this light, the Zapruder film participates in a fundamental disruption of the cinematic apparatus' promise of a holistic representation of reality.

This disruption will be fundamentally connected to the film's interaction with the primary theoretical concepts of attraction, indexicality and contingency as they are understood in the discipline. An investigation of the Zapruder film's formal and structural similarities to the earliest cinematic products and the disruptions connected to the cinema of attractions and early types of "event" filmmaking will be essential.

Connections to the use of attractions in experimental film will also show productive comparisons. Fiction film's connection to these issues and their engagement with the disruption proposed by the Zapruder film will also be important. Here it will be necessary to chart the way narrative can act as both a palliative and intensifying force for the epistemological uncertainty of the images proposed. Finally, we must understand the extent to which the dynamic and ever-changing context of digital remediation has affected the disruptions of the Zapruder film.

All of these considerations are not intended to fix the meaning of the Zapruder film or to detract from its impact in other realms. The key intervention of this dissertation is to open a space for it, not as an orphan child of circumstance, but deeply connected to the process and fundamental structure of cinematic representations as such. This work then is not so much recuperative as it is meant to fully understand and appreciate the depth to which film texts on the borders of the discipline can speak to its very core.


Three new phase diagrams for polymer-salt aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) at 23 °C are presented. Then, partition coefficients for a series of five dinitrophenylated amino acids were obtained experimentally in five polymer-salt ATPS. The ATPS were obtained combining a polymer, polyethylene glycol (PEG) or Ucon (a random copolymer of 50 % ethylene oxide and 50 % propylene oxide), and a salt (Na2SO4, (NH4)2SO4, or Li2SO4). The series of amino acids allowed the calculation of the free energy of transfer of a methylene group, which is used as a measure of the relative hydrophobicity of the equilibrium phases. Ucon-rich phases proved to have a higher affinity for methylene groups than PEG which suggests a more efficient biphasic separation system with lower cross-contamination.


Current helicopters of the light and medium class have two engines installed due to safety reasons. However, this installed power is rarely needed during a flight mission and the engines are operating mainly in part load leading to poor specific fuel consumption. An intended shutdown of one engine during flight increases the load of the remaining engine and the overall fuel consumption gets better. In case of a failure of the remaining running engine, the shut-off engine has to be quick-start capable due to flight safety reasons. Therefore, a quick-start system for the Allison 250-C20B engine was developed at the Institute for Flight Propulsion. This system drives during engine start-up the radial compressor of the engine using pressurized air. Since shop air is actually used for the quick-start system, a new system is designed for independent air supply and for integration into a helicopter airframe. It comprises of pipes, hoses, valves and pressure tanks. This new pressurized air supply is simulated in ESPSS. For identification of the usability of ESPSS a validation is done. For this validation the shop air supply system is modeled in ESPSS and a quick-start is simulated. Simulation results of this model are compared to experimental data of the test bed.


A manure erosion equation was developed and added to the APEX model for use in estimating nutrient losses from
feedlots and manure application fields. The modified APEX was validated with data from feedlots near Bushland, Texas, and
Carrington, North Dakota. The model was used to investigate feedlot management options on a hypothetical feedlot with
realistic data. Vegetative filter strip (VFS) characteristics including 10%, 25%, 50%, and 100% FLRs (flow length ratios,
i.e., filter flow length/feedlot flow length) and slopes of 1%, 5%, and 10% were considered. Combinations of these VFS
characteristics were compared on two soil types: clay loam and fine sandy loam. Management options included three stocking
rates (10, 15, and 20 m2 head-1) and two clean-out intervals (90 and 180 d). Additionally, two climatic conditions
(precipitation of 440 and 825 mm year-1) were simulated. Results from 50-year simulations indicate that a VFS downslope
of the feedlot can greatly reduce nutrient loads. All three VFS characteristics (FLR, slope, and soil) were important in
controlling organic N and P losses. The best organic N and P control was obtained from a VFS with maximum FLR (100%),
minimum slope (1%), and a sandy loam soil. Results were similar for soluble N and P control except that VFS slope had little
effect. The simulated management options (clean-out interval and stocking rate) were also effective in controlling nutrient
losses. The climatic variable (annual precipitation) gave higher nutrient losses from the feedlot and the VFS with 825 mm
than with 440 mm. Nutrient control efficiencies, CEs, 100.* (1.0 - nutrient loss from VFS / nutrient loss from feedlot) were
calculated for all scenarios considered. The VFSs on sandy loam soil with FLRs equal to or greater than 50% gave the highest
CEs for both soluble and organic nutrients. Other factors including VFS slope, clean-out interval, and stocking rate had
marginal impacts on CE. For soluble nutrients, CE is inversely related to annual precipitation. Thus, it is important to locate
feedlots in areas with low precipitation and to provide a well designed VFS. The APEX model with the new manure erosion
equation provides a tool for designing VFSs for controlling nutrient losses from feedlots.


Mechanisms and development of secretory function were studied in rat pancreas in vitro. Amylase release from term fetal pancreas was refractory to stimulation by carbamylcholine chloride (carbachol) and cholecystokinin-octapeptide (CCK-OP), but was significantly augmented by calcium ionophore (A23187), DBcAMP, 8-Br-cGMP, and theophylline. The latter agent when combined with either cyclic nucleotide analogue further increased secretory responses. At 1 day and 8 days postnatally, responsiveness to carbachol and CCK-OP had been acquired because amylase secretion stimulated by these agents was brisk and at a level comparable to that found in mature tissue. Increasing extracellular calcium concentrations from 1.23 to 5.28 mM had no effect on basal amylase release in either the fetal or 8-day pancreas. No changes in intracellular cAMP concentrations were found at any age under experimental conditions used. Similarily, in fetal tissue, no changes in cGMP concentrations were found in response to carbachol or A23187. However, at 8 days of age, both agents produced two- to four-fold increases in tissue cGMP levels at 1, 2, and 5 min of incubation. These studies confirm that responsiveness to carbachol and CCK-OP is a maturational process in the pancreas that lags behind the development of intracellular processes involved in stimulus-secretion coupling.


Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) often show cognitive impairment on traditional neuropsychological tests; however, many of these tests are unsuitable for use with mixed ethnic populations.Computer-administeredcognitivetests are promising, but have not been validatedagainst traditional tests or with predominantly Hispanic samples. We gave 67 lupus patients a computer-administered test battery (Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics - ANAM) and a battery of traditional neuropsychologicaltests. The two batterieswere compared using correlation and multiple regression analyses. All patients were fluent in English, 54% were Hispanic and 13% were bilingual. Non-Hispanic patients were predominantly European American (37%). About 80% of patients were rated as impaired on traditional tests. Hispanics were younger, had less education and more current SLE disease activity than non-Hispanics;but did not differ in lifetime SLE-related organ damage or current steroid use. Hispanics and younger patients were more impaired on many of the traditional tests, while ANAM was not affected by Hispanic ethnicity or education. ANAM tests were moderately correlated with analogous traditional tests. Age and selected ANAM scores accounted for about 60% of the variance in the traditional battery. These results replicate the high prevalence of cognitive deficits in SLE found by others and suggest that computer-administeredtests like ANAM may be useful for assessment of cognitive impairment in mixed-ethnic samples. Confounding variables such as age, education, English language fluency and prior experience with tests were identified and need to be controlled statisticallyor with comparison groups in future studies.


Following the end of the Cold War, hopes for the spread of democracy were high and,
since then at the latest, its promotion has been a part of the standard foreign policy repertoire
of 'Western' states. Nevertheless, the transition from an authoritarian or totalitarian
regime to a consolidated plural democracy proved to be difficult in many post-Soviet
countries – especially where concurrent processes of state- and nation-building took
place, as was the case for Georgia. Therefore, the so-called Rose Revolution of November
2003 gave cause to high expectations inherent in the new government of Mikheil Saakashvili
and a young generation of politicians which succeeded President Eduard
Shevardnadze after he resigned following mass demonstrations against extensive election
fraud.
This report analyzes the conditions relevant to democratic consolidation in Georgia.
Does the Rose Revolution really represent a "decisive twist" in the country's development?
Is the Saakashvili administration capable of living up to the hopes for democratic reform
inherent in it? What are the chances and challenges of the political dynamic that unfolded
after the change of government? And what kind of entry points can be identified for external
players to intervene so as to influence the situation positively?
The report shows that the conditions for Georgia's democratization process have been
very difficult and still are with regard to democratic consolidation. The assessment of the
five factors - 'stateness' and nation-building, political stability, socioeconomic development,
civic culture and political traditions, as well as the international context - paints a
'depressing' picture: The existence of two 'frozen' secession conflicts and the activities of
violent transnational non-state actors undermine the territorial integrity of the state. Endemic
corruption and systemic clientelism and the lack of legitimate institutions representing
all levels and groups of society create an instable political system. Concerning
socioeconomic development, Georgia exhibits the characteristics of a classic developing
country. Civil society is ambivalent because the high number of non-governmental organizations
does not necessarily hint at their autonomous and active role as mediators
between society and state. Georgia does not possess any democratic traditions and the
'Soviet heritage' still characterizes today's civic culture. Due to her geo-strategic relevance,
Georgia has been dominated in her history by different powers and at present, located in
an instable region, she has to find a balance between Russia, the United States of America,
and Europe.
Although some progress has been made by the Saakashvili administration with regard
to the restoration of the state's control over its territory and its borders, to the fight
against corruption, to elections, to political legitimacy, to the efficiency and effectiveness
of the public administration as well as to the collection of taxes and duties, there have also
been setbacks adding to the already existing structural problems of the South Caucasus
state. In trying to repeat his success of re-integrating Ajara by using a double-tracked
strategy of deploying 400 troops in a large-scale anti-smuggling campaign and of massive
humanitarian aid in the breakaway region of South Ossetia, Saakashvili almost triggered
the re-escalation of the 'frozen conflict' into open warfare. His sometimes nationalist
II
rhetoric and gestures of demonstrating executive strength have also worsened relations
with the de-facto independent republic of Abkhazia. As a result of the young reformers'
hard-line anti-corruption approach, civil liberties and the independence of the judiciary
have been negatively affected. Instead of investing in the creation of stable, legitimate and
coherent political institutions capable of reaching the periphery and mediating conflicts,
Saakashvili has so far concentrated on strengthening his presidential powers and relying
on his charismatic rule based on a rather fragile popular support.
The report thus comes to the conclusion that the Rose Revolution does not represent a
"decisive twist" in Georgia's process of democratic consolidation that started with the
introduction of the formal requisites of democratic statehood in the 1995 Constitution.
Nevertheless, in controlling both the executive and the legislative bodies, the Saakashvili
administration still enjoys a comfortable position with regard to the implementation of an
ambitious reform agenda, and should take the chance of a political recommencement.
After all, the non-violent change in regime of November 2003 has put an end to a long
period of stagnation and resignation, removed the ailing Shevardnadze system, and given
new impetus to civil society. These positive aspects contrast with the challenge of a potential
destabilization of the country after the dissolution of the old structures of the
Shevardnadze era. But while international donors had become increasingly annoyed by
the constant reform failures of the Shevardnadze regime and some of them had suspended
their aid programs, Saakashvili has successfully convinced the international community to
grant him a leap of faith in the form of 850 million euros. This support coupled with external
efforts at the promotion of democracy could be essential to Georgia's further development
since, in the light of the geopolitical complexity of the situation together with the
lack of political and economic resources for mastering old and new challenges, it is
unlikely that Georgia will be able to achieve her national goals without the strong support
of the international community. Nevertheless, the respective external players will consequently
have to condition their aid more strongly, linking co-operation and support to
the compliance with democratic standards. Additional aid should only be granted if reform
programs are implemented in a reasonable way, especially with regard to institutionbuilding.
It is still early to draw a conclusion from the Rose Revolution. Consolidation processes
take their time. Georgia will only be a fully consolidated democracy once she is an internally
and externally sovereign territorial state. This does not mean that democratization
cannot take place prior to the conclusion of the processes of state- and nation-building.
Therefore, the existence of the secession conflicts does not apply as a justification for the
restriction of civil liberties and political rights. Demonstrating executive strength does not
provide stability, anyway. On the contrary, aggressive rhetoric on the part of the central
government has worsened relations with the breakaway regions. In order to make any
progress in conflict resolution, it is necessary to build up mutual confidence before status
questions can be addressed. Conflict resolution and confidence-building represent entry
points for external players. The issue of displaced persons represents a major obstacle and
has, therefore, to be addressed more seriously. Besides urging the Georgian government to
encourage their return and remove obstacles to property restitution and reintegration, the
international community should provide multi-agency assistance, as experience from
other post-conflict situations, where large-scale return was achieved, has demonstrated
that such a co-operative engagement is necessary for return to succeed. In addition to the
substantial assistance that has already been offered by the UN High Commissioner for
Refugees, the Council of Europe and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in
Europe should also increase their efforts and co-ordinate their engagements with other
relevant internal and external players.
However, any approach to the secession conflicts must also take Russia into account.
As long as Russia supports Abkhazia and South Ossetia, neither of the two will agree to
give up their de facto independences, making negotiations on status futile. Notwithstanding
the fact that it is important for Georgia as a sovereign state to become emancipated
from her former 'colonial power', the international community should help improve bilateral
Georgian-Russian relations by providing incentives for a co-operation. Russia's
mediation in the Ajara crisis has shown how fruitful a rapprochement between Moscow
and Tbilisi can be. With the USA applying a rather provocative strategy in the region as
far as Russia is concerned, the EU appears a more suitable candidate for taking a mediating
position, of providing incentives, and of conditioning assistance. It can build on its
engagement for a strategic partnership with Russia and include co-operation in the South
Caucasus. It has also extended its European Neighborhood Policy to Georgia, which has a
strong interest in closer co-operation with and even accession to the EU.
Without the combined efforts and political will of the international community, Russia,
the new ruling elites in Georgia, and the de-facto governments in Sokhumi and
Tskhinvali, conditions in Georgia will remain as obstructive to democratic consolidation
as they presently are from an academic perspective.


Calcium sulfate (CS) has been used clinically as a bone- or void-filling biomaterial, and its resorptive properties have provided the prospect for its use as a release mechanism for local antibiotics to control biofilms. Here, we aimed to test CS beads loaded with three antifungal drugs against planktonic and sessile fungal species to assess whether these antifungal beads could be harnessed to provide consistent release of antifungals at biofilm-inhibitory doses. ABSTRACT Calcium sulfate (CS) has been used clinically as a bone- or void-filling biomaterial, and its resorptive properties have provided the prospect for its use as a release mechanism for local antibiotics to control biofilms. Here, we aimed to test CS beads loaded with three antifungal drugs against planktonic and sessile fungal species to assess whether these antifungal beads could be harnessed to provide consistent release of antifungals at biofilm-inhibitory doses. A panel of different fungal species (n = 15) were selected for planktonic broth microdilution testing with fluconazole (FLZ), amphotericin B (AMB), and caspofungin (CSP). After establishing planktonic inhibition, antifungal CS beads were introduced to fungal biofilms (n = 5) to assess biofilm formation and cell viability through a combination of standard quantitative and qualitative biofilm assays. Inoculation of a hydrogel substrate, packed with antifungal CS beads, was also used to assess diffusion through a semidry material, to mimic active infection in vivo. In general, antifungals released from loaded CS beads were all effective at inhibiting the pathogenic fungi over 7 days within standard MIC ranges for these fungi. We observed a significant reduction of pregrown fungal biofilms across key fungal pathogens following treatment, with visually observable changes in cell morphology and biofilm coverage provided by scanning electron microscopy. Assessment of biofilm inhibition also revealed reductions in total and viable cells across all organisms tested. These data show that antifungal-loaded CS beads produce a sustained antimicrobial effect that inhibits and kills clinically relevant fungal species in vitro as planktonic and biofilm cells.


In order to avoid the flaw of the secret shadow distribution method in the existing secret sharing schemes, a secret shadow distribution method is proposed with the ID-based public key technology integrated, which uses the participant's private key as his master shadow. Firstly, security analyses are made on Zheng's signcryption scheme, which shows his scheme does not offer forward secrecy. Then, an improvement is made on Zheng's signcryption scheme and a new scheme is proposed. Based on the proposed signcryption scheme and the ID-based public key cryptosystem, a new threshold multi-secret sharing scheme is proposed. The problem of the secret shadow distribution is well resolved, and no information exchange is needed between the secret dealer and each participant in advance. The secret shadow distribution can be processed during the secret distribution. At the same time, the proposed scheme offers forward secrecy. That is to say, even if the private key of the secret dealer is exposed, the security of the shared secrets will not be threatened. Therefore, the proposed ID-based secret sharing scheme is more secure and effective than others, and it can be more applicable.


Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background: Return to work is potentially an important factor in assessing the success of treatment. However, little is known about the return to work after treatment for Dupuytren's contracture. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to assess return to work after limited fasciectomy and percutaneous needle fasciotomy. Methods: Patients who underwent either a limited fasciectomy or percutaneous needle fasciotomy were invited to complete a return-to-work questionnaire at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. Median time to return to work was assessed using inverted Kaplan-Meier curves, and hazard ratios were calculated with Cox regression models. Finally, a cost analysis was carried out using the human capital method to determine indirect costs associated with loss of productivity. Results: The authors included 2698 patients in the study, of which 53 percent were employed at intake and included in the follow-up. After 1 year of follow-up, 90 percent of the patients had returned to work. Median time to return to work was 2 weeks after limited fasciectomy and within days after percutaneous needle fasciotomy. Furthermore, physically strenuous work, female sex, and higher age were associated with a longer time to return to work. Lost productivity per patient was estimated at €2614.43. Conclusions: The majority of patients returned to work after treatment for Dupuytren's disease. Return to work is much faster after percutaneous needle fasciotomy compared to limited fasciectomy. These findings can be used for more evidence-based preoperative counseling with patients with Dupuytren's disease.


Background: Myokines released from skeletal muscle have multiple metabolic and hypertrophic effects. On the other hand, one of proposed pathways for effects of exercise training on metabolic diseases is calcineurin signaling pathway. With considering to relation between interleukin-6 (IL-6) and calcineurin, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether the resistance training has an effect on mRNA expression of IL-6 myokine and regulator of calcineurin 1(RCAN-1) in skeletal muscle of diabetic rats. Methods: Thirty two Rats randomly were divided into the control, training, diabetic control and diabetic training groups. Diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Training groups performed the 17 sessions of resistance training. The IL-6 and RCAN-1 mRNA expression were measured in Soleus skeletal muscle using the Real-time PCR method. Two-way analysis variance was used for statistical analysis. Also, Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The results of this study showed that the mRNA expression of RCAN-1 was increased with resistance training in skeletal muscle of training groups (P<0.05). Also, diabetes was decreased expression of RCAN-1 in skeletal muscle of diabetic groups (P<0.001). Moreover, resistance training was increased mRNA expression of IL-6 in skeletal muscle (P=0.08). Conclusion: With considering to our results, resistance training with direct effects on skeletal muscle could regulate calcineurin pathway in diabetes and concurrent increase in expression of IL-6 myokine. It seems that activation of this signaling pathway with resistance training could maintain skeletal muscle mass in diabetes.


Objectives: To evaluate correlated factors (correlates) of attitude towards Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) among health care students in a medical university. Methods: A stratified convenient sampling technique was used to calculate the sample size for the current study in three different health care faculties. A pre-validated and self-developed questionnaire was used for data collection of the present study. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 was utilized for data analysis and the interpretation of the results with the help of both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: A total of 268 health care students from three faculties (medical, pharmacy and dental) participated in the current study. In univariate analysis, a statistical significance (p<0.05) was observed in all of the studied variables. Conversely, in multivariate logistic regression model, gender, faculty, year of education and residence variables were observed as statistically significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study confirmed that gender, faculty, year of education and residence were the correlates (pure) of the attitude towards ALS among health care students of a medical university in Malaysia.


The objective of this paper is to bring an effective response to the safe path planning problem which should be solved in an uncertain-configuration space. First, a path planning method dealing with localization uncertainties is proposed, where the uncertainties in both position and orientation of a non-holonomic mobile robot are considered. The safety of this method is due to the mixing of the planning phase and the navigation phase using the same process of localization (the Kalman filter). Next, while previous works planned safe paths in the configuration space, we show that it is necessary to plan safe paths in an uncertain-configuration space. Then, we introduce the novel concept of "towers of uncertainties" and show the effectiveness of this concept with some examples.


Conventional law and economics analysis overlooks a significant feature of the law of recognition of foreign country judgments - an area of the law that regulates the private local practical use of such judgments. The existing literature on the topic currently describes two competing economic hypotheses as relevant to modeling the incentives of countries to recognize foreign country judgments. The first describes a (repeated) prisoner's dilemma game. An alternative economic hypothesis argues that countries envisage cooperation as a weakly dominant strategy. This Article offers a new economic rationale based on an asymmetric information explanation. I argue that no country can identify, at any given moment, whether or not another given country is applying a recognition regime that is as cooperative as the regime applied by it, or whether the foreign jurisdiction is applying a less receptive regime. Each country therefore fears that the foreign jurisdiction is implementing either a "selective" recognition regime, under which the relative lack of cooperation with the forum is driven by a deliberate agenda, or a "sporadic" recognition regime, under which the foreign country turns out to be less receptive to the forum's judgments as a result of mere coincidence. The new economic rationale has several positive and normative implications, relating to cooperation between countries. Four are discussed in this Article. First, registration of foreign judgments, as a method for localizing foreign judgments, is shown to be superior to mere recognition, inasmuch as cooperation with other countries is the goal. Second, attempts to form inter-country recognition agreements (conventions and treaties) that ignore the problem of private information are exposed as futile. Third, the reciprocity requirement, the relevance of which as a prerequisite for recognition is currently the subject of heavy debate in the US, is also shown to be unnecessary. Fourth, countries should in limited, enumerated circumstances, concede to the local legal effect of certain unrecognized foreign judgments.


Fog computing is a new computing paradigm that utilizes numerous mutually cooperating terminal devices or network edge devices to provide computing, storage, and communication services. Fog computing extends cloud computing services to the edge of the network, making up for the deficiencies of cloud computing in terms of location awareness, mobility support and latency. However, fog nodes are not active enough to perform tasks, and fog nodes recruited by cloud service providers cannot provide stable and continuous resources, which limits the development of fog computing. In the process of cloud service providers using the resources in the fog nodes to provide services to users, the cloud service providers and fog nodes are selfish and committed to maximizing their own payoffs. This situation makes it easy for the fog node to work negatively during the execution of the task. Limited by the low quality of resource provided by fog nodes, the payoff of cloud service providers has been severely affected. In response to this problem, an appropriate incentive mechanism needs to be established in the fog computing environment to solve the core problems faced by both cloud service providers and fog nodes in maximizing their respective utility, in order to achieve the incentive effect. Therefore, this paper proposes an incentive model based on repeated game, and designs a trigger strategy with credible threats, and obtains the conditions for incentive consistency. Under this condition, the fog node will be forced by the deterrence of the trigger strategy to voluntarily choose the strategy of actively executing the task, so as to avoid the loss of subsequent rewards when it is found to perform the task passively. Then, using evolutionary game theory to analyze the stability of the trigger strategy, it proves the dynamic validity of the incentive consistency condition.


A medium sized power system, with a large number of devices, is fully modeled and simulated in Modelica. For this, new models for electrical components and mathematical blocks were developed in Modelica and the full system topology and parameters were taken from a reference system made in Eurostag. Initialization and time-domain simulations are performed in a Modelica simulation environment and the results obtained for the steady-state and the response to time-events are compared and validated with simulations performed in Eurostag.


Context: An audit aims to verify conformance to required processes, assess their implementation, and define the targets of quality control. Aims: To evaluate preanalytic and analytic phases of surgical histopathology in a tertiary healthcare center. Setting and Design: An observational retrospective and prospective study over 3 months each of year 2013 and 2014. Materials and Methods: Biopsy, small resections, large organ resections, bone marrow aspirate/biopsy (BMA/BMB), and frozen section samples received in surgical histopathology were categorized as I to V, respectively. A manual audit was done for preanalytical phase (adequacy of clinical information and grossing adequacy) and analytical phase [turnaround time (TAT) and tissue section quality]. Statistical Analysis: Qualitative data was assessed by Chi-Square test. Quantitative data was assessed using One-Way Analysis of Variance. Results: Among 3179 total cases, category I to V had 1558 (49%), 1099 (34.6%), 342 (10.8%), 124 (3.8%), and 56 (1.8%) cases, respectively. Category I had shortest TAT but maximum number of inadequately sent specimens and recuts. Category III had maximum cases with inadequate clinical history, grossing errors, additional sections, and longest TAT. Category IV had maximum cases with poor quality sections. Category V had maximum cases with inadequate demographic details and clinical investigations. BMB (114, 91.9%) was more useful than BMA for diagnosis. Mean TAT for fixed tissues and frozen tissues was 3.6 ± 1.8 days and 26.6 ± 11.2 min, respectively. Conclusions: Total 25% of annual workload was studied by an observational, manual audit. Quality indicators were achieved as per international norms despite limited resources. Remedial actions were suggested for technicians, clinicians, and pathologists to minimize errors.


The aim of the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (GEBCO) is nothing less than to provide the most up-to-date, authoritative, publicly-available bathymetry data sets for the world's oceans. Under the joint auspices of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, experts from around the world contribute time and effort to continuously update and improve GEBCO. Initiated in 1903 by an international group of geographers and oceanographers, under the leadership of Prince Albert I of Monaco, GEBCO has moved from a series of maps describing the shape of the ocean floor to digital maps and digital bathymetric models to be used in geographical information systems. The latest GEBCO product is a global gridded raster data set with a resolution of 30 arc seconds (GEBCO_2014 Grid). These days, GEBCO is an important data set for ocean sciences providing key base data for e.g. ocean modeling and ecosystem studies.

GEBCO's gridded bathymetric data can be downloaded from the British Oceanographic Data Centre (BODC) http://www.bodc.ac.uk/projects/international/gebco/


In this paper, we propose a joint subcarrier power allocation (SPA) and code assignment scheme for the synchronous multirate multicarrier direct-sequence code-division multiple-access (MC-DS-CDMA) system with time- and frequency-domain spreadings. Based on the newly defined metric multiple-access interference (MAI) coefficient, the proposed code assignment strategy can quantitatively predict the incurred MAI before assigning a spreading code. The SPA mechanism aims to maximize the received signal power. In addition to lowering the MAI, the proposed code assignment strategy further considers the compactness of the assigned codes in the entire 2-D tree structure. The simulation results show that the proposed joint SPA and code assignment strategy not only can reach a better received signal quality but can also achieve a high call admission rate.


We present our approach towards an automated design framework for integrated photonics and optoelectronics, based on the experience of developing VPIcomponentMaker Photonic Circuits. We show that design tasks imposed by large-scale integrated photonics require introducing new "functional" types of model parameters and extending the hierarchical design approach with advanced parameter scripting capabilities. We discuss the requirements imposed by the need for seamless integration between circuit-level and device-level simulators, and illustrate our approach for the combination of VPIcomponentMaker Photonic Circuits and VPImodeDesigner. We show that accurate and scalable circuit-level modeling of large-scale photonic integrated circuits requires combination of several frequency- and time-domain simulation techniques (scattering-matrix assembly, transmission-line models, FIR and IIR digital filters, etc) within the same circuit simulation. We extend the scattering-matrix assembly approach for modeling linear electronic circuits, and motivate it being a viable alternative to the traditional modified nodal analysis approach employed in SPICE-like electronic circuit simulators. Further, we present our approach to support process design kits (PDK) for generic foundries of integrated photonics. It is based on the PDAFlow API which is designed to link different photonic simulation and design automation tools. In particular, it allows design and optimization of photonic circuits for a selected foundry with VPIcomponentMaker Photonic Circuits, and their subsequent export to PhoeniX OptoDesigner for layout verification and GDSII mask generation.


During the period 1981–1983, 19 cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) occurred in residents of Larimer County, Colorado, for an incidence of 4.0 cases per 100,000 population per year, compared with 1.2 cases per 100,000 per year in 1975–1980 0, < 0.05). The higher incidence of GBS in 1981–1983 may represent an unusual chance occurrence, since no patient characteristics or predisposing events could be found to explain the increase. Nevertheless, the findings demonstrate that over a period of as long as 3 years, the crude average annual incidence of GBS in a large, well-defined population may exceed by twofold the upper limit of the previously reported range (0.6 to 1.9 cases per 100,000 per year).


In this paper we present our Crowdsourced Linked Open Data Architecture (CLODA), a first attempt to combine crowdsourcing, localization and location-based services to generate, collect, validate and relate real-world, geo-spatial and multidimensional information using smartphones and other mobile devices. CLODA focuses on the construction of URI addressable, interlinked and semi-structured data following the Linked-Open Data (LOD) paradigm. The validity of the constructed data is then contributed by a participating crowd. We present our prototype implementation on top of Google Maps and a blend of in-house technologies, particularly our indoor positioning framework, coined Airplace, our trajectory similarity framework, coined SmartTrace, our neighborhood detection framework, coined Proximity and our smartphone testing platform coined SmartLab.


This paper studies the optimal income redistribution and monitoring when disability benefits are intended for disabled people but where some able agents with high distastes for work mimic them (type II errors). Labor supply responses are at the extensive margin and endogenous takeup costs burden disabled recipients (due to a reputational externality caused by cheaters or due to a snowball effect). Under a non-welfarist criterion which does not compensate for distaste for work, (inactive) disabled recipients get a strictly lower consumption than disabled workers. The usual conditions under which the optimal transfer program is a Negative Income Tax or an Earned Income Tax Credit are challenged, due to monitoring. We also show that even if perfect monitoring is costless, it is optimal to have type II errors. These results are robust to a utilitarian criterion. Numerical simulations calibrated on US data are provided.


Background: It is controversial whether selective endoscopic sphincterotomy or routine laparoscopic bileduct exploration is the optimal treatment for choledocholithiasis. Magnetic resonance cholangio-pancreatography (MRCP) is a safe and accurate imaging modality; this study evaluated its use in a clinical algorithm for the man agement of suspected choledocholithiasis. Patients and methods: Consecutive patients presenting with suspected common bile duct (CBD) stones were managed according to an algorithm involving the selective use of MRCP to identify patients who required endoscopic sphincterotomy and bile ductclear ance. Follow ingra diological demonstration оf a clear CBD, all patients were considered for cholecystectomy. Results: From 157 consecutive patients, 68 proceeded straight to endoscopic sphincterotomy, which was therapeutic in 59. Of 3 who underwent MRCP, choledocholithiasis or tumor obstruction was demonstrated; subsequent endoscopic sphincterotomy was therapeutic. Seventy-four patients subsequently underwent cholecystectomy, with a conversion rate of 9% and a median postoperative stay of 2 day. There were no instances of post-sphincterotomy pancreatitis or haemorrhage requiring transfusion. Conclusion: An algorithm involving selective MRCP with endoscopic sphincterotomy is a safe, effective means of managing suspected choledocholithiasis, particularly where the expertise, equipment or theatre time for laparoscopic bile duct exploration is not routinely available MRCP may become a new additional alternative to ERCP and intraoperative cholangiography. Scripta Scientifica Medica 2009; 41(2): 163-167.


Abstract The practical evaluation of aerodynamic coefficients in unconventional concrete structures requires specific studies, which are small-scale models evaluated in wind tunnels. Sophisticated facilities and special sensors are needed, and the tendency is for modern and slender constructions to arise with specific demands on their interaction with the wind. On the other hand, the advances obtained in modern multi-core processors emerge as an alternative for the construction of sophisticated computational models, where the Navier-Stokes differential equations are solved for fluid flow using numerical methods. Computations of this kind require specialized theoretical knowledge, efficient computer programs, and high-performance computers for large-scale calculations. This paper presents recent results involving two real-world applications in concrete structures, where the aerodynamic parameters were estimated with the aid of computational fluid dynamics. Conventional quad-core computers were applied in simulations with the Finite Volume Method and a progressive methodology is presented, highlighting the main aspects of the simulation and allowing its generalization to other types of problems. The results confirm that the proposed methodology is promising in terms of computational cost, drag coefficient estimation and versatility of simulation parameters. These results also indicate that mid-performance computers can be applied for preliminary studies of aerodynamic parameters in design offices.


Stevens ide partners is a design company from Enschede that focuses among other things on machine design. Future concepts are being used to arouse interest among clients in further development and cooperation. In these future concepts, trends in the market are being analysed and applied to conceptual design proposals. Clients have responded very positively to these future concepts, but have shown to struggle with projecting the designs onto their own products. For these clients it's necessary to provide client specific future concepts. However, following the current design process, this is not economically feasible. To be able to approach these clients anyway, a more efficient version of the current design process will be developed.
A setup for a design model has already been framed. This bachelor assignment has started out with describing this model in detail. In order to do this, the theory behind the model has been researched, the stakeholders are discussed and the new context of the model is investigated. From this analysis it became clear that the model was missing an important element. This shortcoming has been removed by adding corporate identity to the model. With this, the client is analysed. The new design model starts with analysing the general corporate structure and identity of the client. Secondly, the competition is investigated and the design trends in the client's market are identified. The identity of the client and the found trends are combined and applied to a redesign of the client's product. The new design model has been tested with a case study. This has shown that the design model provides a time reduction with regard to the current design process. Therefore the model is validated. To realise this time reduction, however, it was necessary to study the underlying theory of the model.
A design tool has been developed to make sure the users, which lack this knowledge of underlying theory, can benefit from the model as well. This tool can function as a guideline for the future concept process that can be used voluntarily. The design tool is basically an interactive roadmap with a number of supporting files and a database. The design tool encourages the user to reuse previous findings. It also specifies the intended results and gives examples to visualize these. With these aspects the waste of time is minimized and all of the work is done in order to reach the target. The database will be complemented every time a future concept is developed. As a result the design tool will become increasingly helpful for the user. With the use of this design tool, interns at Stevens ide partners can follow a large portion of the process autonomously.
The design tool has been implemented into the structure of Stevens ide partners. In the near future they will start using it. The design tool has been constructed in a way that it is easily adjustable to make sure the design tool will remain useful in the future.


Clinical engineering has failed to make the impact expected of it in the early 1970's. This failure has occurred because clinical engineering has not matured as any discipline must to achieve professional status. It does not embody a clearly understood set of capabilities. It is not based on a well-defined body of knowledge. It does not have a professional society directly representing it. This condition can be remedied by the establishment of a professional society for clinical engineering that can educate consumers about the capabilities of clinical engineers, guide providers in designing clinical engineering curricula, and promote increased involvement of clinical engineers in all high-technology areas of hospitals and in the decision-making process at their institutions.


Few opinions are more firmly held or more dogmatically taught than that opium must not be given to patients with albuminuria or Bright's disease. The more extreme upholders of this doctrine teach that the presence of albumin in the urine, even when the kidneys are not diseased, as in cases of fever, prohibits the use of opium. Many years of careful investigation of this subject convince me that this opinion is wrong. I avail myself of this opportunity to again draw attention to this subject. Several writers in America and England have recorded their experiences that opium either by the mouth or hypodermically may be administered, not only without danger but with great advantage, to some patients with uremia. Dr. Loomis ("Diseases of Respiratory Organs, Heart and Kidneys," 1875) states that he has employed morphia hypodermically in puerperal eclampsia with marked success. He says that morphia may be given hypodermically


The Tern Field, in the Northern North Sea, started production in 1989 and until 1995 was subject to conventional development, surface facilities improvements matching subsurface development priorities, and production. The principal Lower Ness/Etive reservoir was the focus of early development; production from the poorer quality Rannoch and Upper Ness reservoirs increasingly lagged behind. Development of sub-economic Triassic oil sands below, and small Brent satellite accumulations around the field, were not addressed. Since 1995 an 'asset management' approach to the Tern area, focused on maximizing full-field life value of the combined surface and subsurface assets has been adopted. Appropriate development of all potential hydrocarbon streams available to the Tern platform has been prioritized, and technology drivers to improve profitability of all streams have been aggressively pursued. In anticipation of rapid watering-out of Lower Ness/Etive reservoir, this wider development strategy incorporates the integration new technology in reservoir definition and exploitation to ensure continuing profitability in the Tern Field while maximizing reserves appreciation and development. The strategy encompasses the poorer Brent and Triassic reservoir formations, several 'near facilities potential' accumulations, third-party development volumes. Reservoir definition methodologies comprise seismic inversion, bodymapping and time-lapse work, while modelling integrates seismic, geological and dynamic reservoir simulation technologies. Exploitation methods comprise horizontal development within 15 ft thick sands, and more recently multilateral wells across Brent and Triassic objectives. These methods will lead to fundamentally improved opportunities to enhance profitability. Further plans to integrate extended-reach drilling and concurrent platform activities will enhance efficiency/effectiveness of the Tern area development. This paper illustrates the successful marriage of several technologies to the continuing benefit of a most successful field development.


Loan guarantees are popular policy responses during the COVID-19 crisis. Despite their prevalence, evidence of their effectiveness is sparse. We estimate the impacts of UK guarantees during the Great Recession, by exploiting firm-size eligibility restrictions. Guarantees increased four-year performance, labour-productivity, and employment growth, but not investment. Results are driven by firms with high-training-costs employees. They are consistent with the guarantees enabling a small number of financially constrained firms to retain workers that helped rebuild the businesses post-crisis. The results suggest that COVID-19 responses based on guarantees alone can be regressive, because poorer workers are more likely to have low-training-costs jobs.


Objectives: To study patients' knowledge about ultrasound capabilities and limitations at mid-trimester examination. To compare the results obtained before and after ultrasound examination. Methods: This was a prospective observational study in the main regional screening center. During the 5-month study period, all women attending routine mid-trimester US were offered to fillin a questionnaire regarding their general knowledge of the subsequent examination. The same questionnaire was to be filledin again and handed over immediately after the examination was performed, in order to assess the quality of the information provided during US examination. Answers given before and after ultrasound examination were compared. Results: 410 questionnaires were allocated and 400 women eventually participated (97.5%). 93% of the women thought that US examination was mandatory in prenatal follow up. Before US examination, 23.75% of women felt that they had not received enough information about the examination, and most of the information was heard from the doctor in charge of prenatal care (43%) or from the previous US examination (37%). As an example, 35% of women knew prior to the examination that US examination could be normal even in the presence of a serious problem and 42% thought that it could help in screening for chromosomal abnormalities. After US examination, 16% of patients felt that they did not receive enough information (as compared to prior, P = 0.007), 12.6% were aware that US examination could be normal even in the presence of a serious problem (P = 0.0002) and 67% thought it could help screening for chromosomal abnormalities (P = 0.0002). Conclusions: Prior to examination, women do not have enough information regarding US capabilities and limitations at midtrimester. Our results could help in optimizing the information delivered prior to and during the US examination.


We consider the problem of streaming principal component analysis (PCA) when the observations are noisy and generated in a non-stationary environment. Given $T$, $p$-dimensional noisy observations sampled from a non-stationary variant of the spiked covariance model, our goal is to construct the best linear $k$-dimensional subspace of the terminal observations. We study the effect of non-stationarity by establishing a lower bound on the number of samples and the corresponding recovery error obtained by any algorithm. We establish the convergence behaviour of the noisy power method using a novel proof technique which maybe of independent interest. We conclude that the recovery guarantee of the noisy power method matches the fundamental limit, thereby generalizing existing results on streaming PCA to a non-stationary setting.


Transformers have become one of the dominant architectures in deep learning, particularly as a powerful alternative to convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in computer vision. However, Transformer training and inference in previous works can be prohibitively expensive due to the quadratic complexity of self-attention over a long sequence of representations, especially for high-resolution dense prediction tasks. To this end, we present a novel Less attention vIsion Transformer (LIT), building upon the fact that the early self-attention layers in Transformers still focus on local patterns and bring minor benefits in recent hierarchical vision Transformers. Specifically, we propose a hierarchical Transformer where we use pure multi-layer perceptrons (MLPs) to encode rich local patterns in the early stages while applying self-attention modules to capture longer dependencies in deeper layers. Moreover, we further propose a learned deformable token merging module to adaptively fuse informative patches in a non-uniform manner. The proposed LIT achieves promising performance on image recognition tasks, including image classification, object detection and instance segmentation, serving as a strong backbone for many vision tasks. Code is available at https://github.com/zip-group/LIT.


The use of machine learning models has become ubiquitous. Their predictions are used to make decisions about healthcare, security, investments and many other critical applications. Given this pervasiveness, it is not surprising that adversaries have an incentive to manipulate machine learning models to their advantage. One way of manipulating a model is through a poisoning or causative attack in which the adversary feeds carefully crafted poisonous data points into the training set. Taking advantage of recently developed tamper-free provenance frameworks, we present a methodology that uses contextual information about the origin and transformation of data points in the training set to identify poisonous data, thereby enabling online and regularly re-trained machine learning applications to consume data sources in potentially adversarial environments. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first approach to incorporate provenance information as part of a filtering algorithm to detect causative attacks. We present two variations of the methodology - one tailored to partially trusted data sets and the other to fully untrusted data sets. Finally, we evaluate our methodology against existing methods to detect poison data and show an improvement in the detection rate.


Superabsorbent polymer (SAP)
hydrogel particles have been used as internal curing agents in concrete mixes
as they are capable of absorbing and subsequently releasing large amounts of
water. This reduces autogenous shrinkage during early stages of hydration. The
size, shape, and composition of the hydrogel particles can be controlled during
the synthesis, hence providing the opportunity to custom synthesize these internal
curing agents to elicit desired structure-property relationships. Utilization
of optimized dosage and formulation of SAP has the potential to improve the
microstructure, durability, and strength of internally cured concrete.

The first study focuses on the
synthesis and application of novel composite hydrogel particles as internal
curing agents in cementitious mixes. Composite polyacrylamide hydrogel
particles containing two different amorphous silica–either nanosilica or silica
fume–were used to investigate whether the internal curing performance of
hydrogel particles could be enhanced. The dosage and type of silica,
crosslinker amount were varied to identify the composite polyacrylamide
hydrogel particle composition that provides optimum benefits to internally
cured cementitious systems. The synthesized hydrogels were characterized by
means of absorption capacity tests, compositional and size analysis. The
beneficial impacts of the addition of composite hydrogels on cement paste
microstructure are highlighted, including the preferential formation of cement
hydration products (such as portlandite) within the hydrogel-induced voids that
appeared to be influenced by the composition of the hydrogel particles. The
interrelationship between extent of hydration, size of hydrogel voids, and
void-filling with hydration products was found to strongly influence mechanical
strength and is thus an important structure-property relationship to consider
when selecting hydrogels for internal curing purposes. This study informs the
design of composite hydrogel particles to optimize performance in cementitious
mixes. Additionally, it provides a novel means of incorporating other commonly
used admixtures in concrete without facing common challenges related to
dispersion and health hazards.

The second study focuses on the
utilization of two retarding admixture-citric acid and sucrose-to custom
synthesize composite polyacrylamides to investigate whether the composite
hydrogels could delay hydration of cement paste. Isothermal calorimetry
analysis results showed that composite sucrose-containing polyacrylamide
hydrogel particles were successfully able to retard main hydration peak of
cement paste, beyond the retardation capabilities of the pure polyacrylamide
hydrogels. Thus, this study provides avenues of exploring the utilization of
common admixtures to formulate novel composite hydrogels that imparts specific
properties to cementitious systems.

In another study, SAP formulated
by admixture industries were used to investigate the feasibility of internal
curing of bridge decks and pavement patches with SAP particles. The
microstructure and early age hydration properties of SAP-cured cementitious
systems were studied. Mitigation of microcracks in the matrix, along with
portlandite growth in SAP voids, were observed in SAP-cured mortars. Presence
of SAP also mitigated autogenous shrinkage and improved early age hydration as
observed by isothermal calorimetry analysis. This thesis highlights some of the
beneficial impacts of SAP-cured cementitious systems, and the potential to
harness those benefits in large-scale applications of SAP-cured concrete.


Since September 11, 2001, insurance markets have been struggling to adjust to new information about the magnitude of risks posed by terrorism, and to the loss of tens of billions of dollars in reserves because of claims relating to the September 11 attacks. Insurance coverage for terror-related losses has become more expensive and for some risks difficult or impossible to obtain. As a result, various interest groups have called for the Federal government to provide coverage for terrorism losses, and proposals for increased government involvement are moving forward in Washington. We question the wisdom of any further measures of this sort. They are likely to come too late to address short-term market disruption, and in the long run may well supplant or distort desirable market responses to the new information about terrorism risk.


To identify type 2 diabetes (T2D) susceptibility loci, we conducted genome-wide association (GWA) scans in nested case-control samples from two prospective cohort studies, including 2591 patients and 3052 controls of European ancestry. Validation was performed in 11 independent GWA studies of 10,870 cases and 73,735 controls. We identified significantly associated variants near RBMS1 and ITGB6 genes at 2q24, best-represented by SNP rs7593730 (combined OR=0.90, 95% CI=0.86-0.93; P=3.7x10(-8)). The frequency of the risk-lowering allele T is 0.23. Variants in this region were nominally related to lower fasting glucose and HOMA-IR in the MAGIC consortium (P<0.05). These data suggest that the 2q24 locus may influence the T2D risk by affecting glucose metabolism and insulin resistance.


Four levels of waste transformation are adapted and applied to the raising of pigs, chickens and cows. Farmers ferment waste and use it as feed (Level 1). They feed fecal matter to the larvae of the black soldier fly, they feed larval residue to red worms, and they fertilize their crops primarily with vermicompost (Level 2). They house pigs, chickens and cows on a soft mesophilic bedding (Level 3) sprayed each day with probiotic liquids. They add biochar from top-lit, updraft gasifiers to the fermented feed and to the bedding, and they use syngas for household cooking (Level 4). The bedding has no odor. There are no flies. At no point in their lives are antibiotics or any other pharmaceuticals administered to pigs, chickens and cows raised in this unconventional way. Just about all of the behavioral and physiological needs of animals and poultry are met. Instead of inhumane confinement or freerange, we propose a third way: confinement in a clean, spacious and odorless setting that accords comfort and dignity to animals. High levels of productivity are achieved, not by means by over-crowding, antibiotics, growth hormones or chemical fertilizers but by lining up multiple, interdependent waste transformation cycles that all reduce cost and generate income. These waste transformation technologies can even be extended to include the recycling of bone, human waste and biodegradable household waste. Through the wise and efficient transformation of waste, farmers buy nothing from feed, fertilizer, pharmaceutical, and fuel companies. Strong and self-reliant, farmers no longer depend on the fragile infrastructure of global trade. Large international corporations that enslave small farmers through the sale of unsustainable inputs are shut out, along with traders peddling cheap subsidized products that devastate local economies. In this way a lot more jobs are created and a lot more money is made at the local level. The social upheaval caused by the migration of young people to large cities is eliminated. Poor people, especially poor women, are empowered as never before. Food production increases. Food security, along with national security, is enhanced. Trade figures improve. Human health is not endangered. The environment does not suffer. And neither do pigs, chickens and cows. 2016


Solid dispersions (SD) were prepared with naringenin and mannitol by the solvent evaporation method with three drying methods (vacuum drying, VD; microwave-vacuum drying, MVD; and spray drying, SPD). The SD was characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Powder X-ray Diffractometry (PXRD), Scanning Electronic Microscope (SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). In vitro dissolution of naringenin and physical stability was investigated, and the energy consumption of different processing methods was measured. The results showed that the vitro dissolution rate and extent of naringenin was significantly improved by SD prepared with different drying methods compared to that of the pure drug and physical mixture (PM), and the dissolution rate of SD-SPD and SD-MVD was much higher than the SD-VD. The results of FT-IR showed that naringenin is possibly interacted with mannitol via intermolecular hydrogen bond; The PXRD showed that the crystallinity of the SD prepared with three drying methods was reduced sharply as compared with pure naringenin and PM. There results showed that the physical state of SD-MVD was more stable than SD-SPD and SD-VD that stored in the 40 °C/75% RH chamber in three month. Compared with other drying methods, the MVD method can save time and energy. These results suggest that MVD is feasible to replace the traditional time-consuming and low efficiency drying procedure for preparation of solid dispersions.


Objective: to explore physiotherapists' perceptions of mechanisms to explain observed variation in early postoperative practice after hip fracture surgery demonstrated in a national audit. Methods: a qualitative semi-structured interview study of 21 physiotherapists working on orthopaedic wards at seven hospitals with different durations of physiotherapy during a recent audit. Thematic analysis of interviews drawing on Normalisation Process Theory to aid interpretation of findings. Results: four themes were identified: achieving protocolised and personalised care; patient and carer engagement; multidisciplinary team engagement across the care continuum and strategies for service improvement. Most expressed variation from protocol was legitimate when driven by what is deemed clinically appropriate for a given patient. This tailored approach was deemed essential to optimise patient and carer engagement. Participants reported inconsistent degrees of engagement from the multidisciplinary team attributing this to competing workload priorities, interpreting 'postoperative physiotherapy' as a single professional activity rather than a care delivery approach, plus lack of integration between hospital and community care. All participants recognised changes needed at both structural and process levels to improve their services. Conclusion: physiotherapists highlighted an inherent conflict between their intention to deliver protocolised care and allowing for an individual patient-tailored approach. This conflict has implications for how audit results should be interpreted, how future clinical guidelines are written and how physiotherapists are trained. Physiotherapists also described additional D ow naded rom http/academ ic.p.com /ageing/ar0/6/1961/6310129 by gest on 03 Feruary 2022


The objective of this study was to determine the effects of increased AA and energy intake during late gestation on reproductive performance, milk composition, and metabolic and redox status of sows. A total of 118 Yorkshire sows (third through sixth parity) were randomly assigned to dietary treatments from day 90 of gestation until farrowing. Dietary treatments consisted of combinations of 2 standardized ileal digestible (SID) AA levels [14.7 or 20.6 g/d SID Lys, SID Lys and other AA met or exceeded the NRC (2012) recommendations] and 2 energy levels (28.24 or 33.78 MJ/d intake of NE) in a 2 × 2 factorial design. After parturition, all sows were fed a standard lactation diet. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for parameters on metabolism, redox status, and amino acid profile. The data were analyzed using the generalized linear mixed models to reveal the impact of dietary levels of energy, AA, and their interaction. Sows with increased intake of AA had greater BW gain (P < 0.01) during late gestation. Furthermore, the BW loss during lactation was increased in sows with increasing intake of energy (P < 0.05) or AA (P < 0.05). Sows fed high energy had higher total litter birth weights (20.2 kg vs. 18.4 kg, P < 0.05) and shorter duration of farrowing (261 min vs. 215 min, P < 0.05), compared with those fed low energy, which likely was due to higher (P < 0.05) plasma glucose and lower (P < 0.05) plasma lactate prior to parturition. High AA intake in late gestation increased the ADG of piglets during the following lactation (P < 0.05), and increased the concentrations of plasma urea, and the following AA: Lys, Met, Thr, Val, Ile, Leu, Phe, Asp, Ser, and Arg at farrowing (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the increased intake of energy increased total litter weight of newborns and shortened the farrowing duration, which likely was due to improved energy status at farrowing. Furthermore, sows with increased intake of AA led to higher growth rate of piglets during the following lactation, accompanying with the increasing levels of plasma urea and amino acids. Therefore, the higher energy intake in late gestation appeared to improve litter weight and farrowing duration, while higher AA intake may have positive effect on piglets performance in lactation.


Modern Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have the capability of carrying sensors that produce large amounts of data. A high speed wireless data link is required to transfer this data to other systems for processing. This paper presents an FPGA-based implementation of a high data-rate (350 Mbps) QPSK modulator and demodulator to support a high data rate relay from a UAV to a ground station. By using high speed ADCs and DACs in conjunction with state of the art FPGAs it is possible to implement all signal processing functions necessary in a modem. We will present the architecture and methodologies used for both the modulator and demodulator and discuss how these algorithms are implemented in an FPGA.


CONTEXT
Chronic sex steroid deficiency has effects on adipose fatty acid (FA) storage mechanisms and fat oxidation, but the chronology of events are not well understood.

OBJECTIVE
The objective of the study was to examine the acute effects of female sex steroid suppression on cellular mechanisms affecting abdominal and femoral subcutaneous adipose tissue FA storage.

DESIGN
This study had a randomized, longitudinal, parallel study design.

SETTING
The study was conducted at the Mayo Clinic Clinical Research Unit.

PARTICIPANTS
Thirty-eight nonsmoking premenopausal women aged 18-50 years participated in the study.

INTERVENTION
The intervention included randomization to receive one of the following: 1) no treatment (control), 2) 3.75 mg of Lupron, or 3) 3.75 mg of Lupron and estrogen, but not progesterone, replacement for 49 days, resulting in at least 4 weeks of sex steroid suppression.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Body composition, fat cell size, postprandial chylomicron and nonchylomicron triglyceride concentrations, adipose tissue meal FA storage, direct free fatty acid storage, lipoprotein lipase, acyl CoA synthetase, and diacylglycerol acyltransferase activities, and CD36 content were measured.

RESULTS
Compared with the control group, the fed state femoral lipoprotein lipase activity was reduced in women taking Lupron and those taking Lupron and estrogen replacement. In addition, we observed significantly greater postprandial chylomicronemia in the Lupron group than in the other two groups. There were no differences in overall fat storage and oxidation. Depending on the mode of data expression (per unit lipid vs per 1000 adipocytes), there were modest changes in acyl CoA synthetase, diacylglycerol acyltransferase, and CD36 in response to acute sex hormone suppression.

CONCLUSIONS
Our results suggest estrogen and progesterone may have different effects on the regulation of FA metabolism and that acute sex steroid deficiency in women does not alter fat storage and oxidation.


The present result shows that in blastula and gastrula stages although endoderm cells of the Xenopus embryo may be electrically coupled with each other, most of them can not detectably transfer the 376 dalton molecular weight tracer, the carboxyfluorescein, to their contiguous neighbor cells. They become capable of such junctional dye transfer at the end of gastrulation. This transition reflects temporally well ordered development of junctional communication capacity from low to high level, which may be related to the developmental program of endodermal cellular differentiation. The time course of this transition provides a measure for study of the effects of various factors on the development of junctional communication capacity in this embryo.


We investigate the properties of fundamental, multi-peak, and multi-peaked twisted solitons in three types of finitewaveguide lattices imprinted in photorefractive media with asymmetrical diffusion nonlinearity. Two opposite soliton self-bending signals are considered for different families of solitons. Power thresholdless fundamental and multi-peaked solitons are stable in the low power region. The existence domain of two-peaked twisted solitons can be changed by the soliton self-bending signals. When solitons tend to self-bend toward the waveguide lattice, stable two-peaked twisted solitons can be found in a larger region in the middle of their existence region. Three-peaked twisted solitons are stable in the lower (upper) cutoff region for a shallow (deep) lattice depth. Our results provide an effective guidance for revealing the soliton characteristics supported by a finite waveguide lattice with diffusive nonlocal nonlinearity.


A new method for preparation of highly sensitive nonradioactive probes for dot, dot-blot and in situ hybridization was developed. The method is based on chemical modification (transamination) of cytosine residues with 4-aminooxybutylamine following by coupling biotin or fluorescein to aliphatic aminogroups introduced into DNA. Such a probe have been used for detection of gene encoding chorionic somatomammotropin hormone (hCS) in genomic blot hybridization. The gene hCS was mapped using isotopic and nonisotopic in situ hybridization on human chromosome 17.


Introduction: Several epidemiological studies have investigated whether reproductive and hormonal factors are associated with the risk of renal cell cancer (RCC) in women. Although the associations of most factors with RCC risk are inconsistent, most studies have observed a positive association between parity and RCC risk. We therefore examined the association of parity and other reproductive and hormonal factors with RCC risk in the Netherlands Cohort Study on Diet and Cancer (NLCS). Methods: The NLCS was initiated in 1986. A self-administered questionnaire on diet and other risk factors for cancer was completed by 62,573 women, aged 55-69 at baseline. Data were processed and analyzed using the case-cohort approach; cases were enumerated for the entire cohort, and person years at risk were estimated using a subcohort. This subcohort was randomly sampled from the entire cohort immediately after the baseline measurement and has been being followed up for vital status. Cohort members who reported cancer at baseline were excluded from analysis. Follow-up for cancer was established by annual record linkages with the Netherlands Cancer Registry and the nationwide pathology registry. After 17.3 years of follow-up, data from 178 RCC cases and from 2,341 subcohort members were available for analysis. Rate ratios (RRs) and 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CI) were estimated using the Cox proportional hazards model, with multivariate adjustment for confounders. Results: Age at menarche was not associated with RCC risk. Multivariate RRs for age at menopause, adjusted for age at baseline, history of hypertension and BMI, were 1.42 (95% CI: 0.90-2.25) for women with age at menopause 25-44 years, 1.60 (95% CI: 1.10-2.32) for women with age at menopause 45-49 years and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.38-1.78) for women with age at menopause 55 years and older, compared to the reference group (women with age at menopause 50-54 years). P-value for trend was 0.02. Use of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy were not associated with RCC risk. With respect to parity, no association was found. Multivariate RR was 1.09 (95% CI: 0.71-1.67) for parous women compared to nulliparous women. Increasing number of childbirths was also not associated with RCC risk. Because BMI and hypertension could be intermediate factors in the relationship between parity and RCC risk, we also inspected models without adjustment for hypertension and BMI. Univariate RRs of the association between parity and RCC risk were not increased. Despite the observed lack of association between parity and RCC risk, there were indications of effect-modification by BMI on the association between parity and RCC risk (p-value for interaction, 0.02). Normal weight women (BMI Conclusion: We did not confirm the association between parity and RCC risk. With the exception of age at menopause, other reproductive and hormonal factors were not associated with RCC risk either. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2010;3(12 Suppl):B97.


In this study, a thermoeconomic assessment of renewable energy‐based hydrogen generation and blending it with natural gas in the existing pipeline system is performed for various locations. Selected locations are compared in energy content, environmental impact, and cost. In this regard, solar photovoltaic panels and wind turbines are integrated with electrolyzers along with the reverse osmosis units. The clean hydrogen produced by the electrolyzers is then blended with natural gas and utilized for residential applications in an environmentally benign way. Also, the heat required for a community consisting of 100 houses is provided by a boiler by hydrogen and natural gas blend as fuel. The costs of capital, fuel, operation and maintenance are calculated and comparatively evaluated. The results show that the total net present costs for the integrated systems are calculated to be between $3.01 million and $4.36 million in the selected five different locations. Furthermore, an environmental impact assessment is conducted in terms of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, unburned hydrocarbons, and particulate matter. Finally, the CO2 emissions are calculated to be varying from 443.2 to 491.9 tons/year.


In his Interpretation of Dreams Sigmund Freud quotes a poem by Heinrich Heine: "Selten habt Ihr mich verstanden/selten auch verstand ich Euch./Nur wenn wir im Kot uns fanden,/so verstanden wir uns gleich". ("Rarely did you understand me, and rarely did I understand you; Only when we found ourselves in the muck did we understand each other at once.") In my contribution, I want to examine this ability of the excrement to function as a kind of universal equivalent for understanding; a kind of perfectly convertible currency or primordial gift (according to Freud's account). What is it that makes this border-element between culture and nature so specifically useful when nothing else seems to help in human communication? This question shall be raised specifically with regard to the "scatological rituals" examined and analyzed by Stephen Greenblatt as well as with to the issue that D. A. F. de Sade makes of the excrement in his "120 days of Sodom", where it plays an astoundingly predominant role when it comes to finding unequivocal proofs of human autonomy.


The immunosuppressive effect of anaprilin on humoral and cellular responses was established during experiments on mice. The influence of the drug on the phenomenon of hypersensitivity of delayed type begins to be revealed at the lower dose of the drug (0.5 mg/kg) as compared with the inhibitory action of the beta-adrenoblocker on antibody formation (1 mg/kg).


Persistent sensibility abnormalities after correction of zygoma fractures indicate injury to the infraorbital nerve and may produce pain. To investigate this, a retrospective study of 25 patients who had undergone surgical correction of a zygoma fracture was performed. Bilateral neurosensory measurements were obtained with the Pressure-Specified Sensory Device (Sensory Management Services, Baltimore, Md.). Seven of the 25 patients had required orbital floor reconstruction. Each patient had undergone fracture correction at least 6 months earlier and was interviewed, at the time of sensibility testing, regarding symptoms related to the fracture. The data were evaluated by a blinded examiner, from a separate clinical facility, who attempted to predict the side of the fracture and the degree of zygoma displacement on the basis of measurements of sensibility of the paranasal, upper lip, and zygomaticotemporal areas. Seventy-six percent of patients demonstrated abnormal sensibility on the side of the zygoma fracture, compared with the contralateral side. Sensibility was abnormal for 100 percent of the patients who required orbital floor reconstruction. Seventy-four percent of patients with abnormal sensibility reported symptoms related to the fracture. Eighty percent of the zygoma fractures were correctly identified, with respect to the side of the fracture, by the blinded examiner on the basis of the neurosensory measurements alone (p < 0.005). Predictions proved correct for 91 percent of the patients with widely displaced fractures and none of the patients with nondisplaced fractures. The results of this study suggest that neurosensory testing is an important clinical adjunct for the evaluation of patients with facial pain or dysesthesia after facial fracture reconstruction. The results suggest the need to develop algorithms for the diagnosis and treatment of trigeminal nerve injuries after craniofacial trauma. This approach could also be applicable to dysesthesia or pain after aesthetic facial surgical procedures.


Cross-linked dimers of ribonuclease, added at a concentration of 0.05 mg/ml to the culture medium of hepatoma (HTC) cells, were previously shown to inhibit intracellular degradation of peroxidase taken up by endocytosis. Intracellular localization showed that endocytosed peroxidase does not reach lysosomes in dimer-treated cells. The present study shows that preloading of lysosomes with fluorescent anti-peroxidase IgG, obtained by exposing HTC cells for 48 h to 0.1 mg of antibody/ml, restores intracellular degradation of endocytosed peroxidase. Moreover, accumulation of peroxidase into lysosomes, which no longer occurs in dimer-treated cells, occurs again under these conditions. We conclude that inhibition of transfer of peroxidase from phagosomes to lysosomes is most likely to be the alteration resulting from the exposure of the cells to ribonuclease dimer, rather than inhibition of fusion between phagosomes and lysosomes. The dimer of another basic protein, lysozyme added at a concentration of 0.2 mg/ml to the culture medium, is shown to induce the same type of effects as does the dimer of ribonuclease; the half-life of endocytosed peroxidase increased from 5 to 15 h after 2 h exposure of HTC cells to dimerized lysozyme. The effect of both dimers on intracellular protein processing can be reversed by addition of 100 mm-galactose to the culture medium, up to 5 h after pretreatment of the cells. The dimers of ribonuclease A or of lysozyme have thus probably the same mechanism of action. Evidence that the two dimers share the same binding sites on the cells is presented.


The critically endangered North Atlantic right whale population (Eubalaena glacialis) has experienced multiple periods of decreased reproduction within its observable history, which have played a role in the overall decline of the species. In addition to this synchronized variation in reproduction across the population, there exists considerable individual variation in fecundity. To determine the impacts of family history and habitat use behavior on these individual variations in fecundity, photo identification data collected during four decades of visual monitoring were used to create a calving index for sexually mature females that could be used to evaluate matrilineal influence on fecundity. Reproductive life histories were analyzed to assess fecundity variation within matrilines over time. Individual variations in fecundity were also assessed with respect to a recent climate-driven habitat distribution shift by a loyal cohort of right whales that use the Gulf of St. Lawrence during the summer and autumn seasons. Lifetime fecundity in the oldest known living reproductive female, or matriarch, in a matriline was positively associated with the fecundity of her female progeny. Sexually mature females that have used the Gulf of St. Lawrence since 2015 were significantly more likely to give birth over this time period compared to individuals who did not use that habitat. Individuals of both sexes were significantly more likely to use the Gulf of St. Lawrence if their mothers did as well; however, this association declined as offspring aged. These results provide insight on the environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors that contribute to individual variation in fecundity. Low calving rates and increased dangers posed by habitat use shifts in the past decade have played a major role in the species' decline, and these new insights into the mechanistic drivers of right whale reproduction and habitat use show that lineage guides progeny behavior and reproductive success. As anthropogenic climate change continues to disrupt right whale seasonal distributions through changing ocean circulation patterns, understanding the demographic consequences of novel habitat use patterns will be essential to updating protective policies.


Western Europe and the United States have both seen an increase in the number of elected officials who represent the far-right ideologically. In this paper, I investigate the reasons behind the rise of far-right nationalist parties, as well as the impacts it has on policy and implications for international relations. To do this, I compared recent election results from Western Europe and the US, the populist rhetoric used by these parties and their candidates, and the subsequent changes in immigration and trade policy due to far-right politicians enacting their agenda. Through this comparison, I concluded first that the elections in Western Europe show a shift in favoring far-right nationalist parties, while in the US, the Republican Party as a whole has shifted further to the right due to the Tea Party movement. Western Europe's populist rhetoric targets asylumseekers, while in the US the rhetoric is largely anti-Latino in addition to being anti-Muslim. Both regions have their respective anti-establishment elements as well. For policy results, we see this shift in far-right nationalism manifest in stringent immigration and asylum laws, specifically in France and Austria, as well as Britain leaving the EU in 2016. For the US, the border wall, repealing DACA, the travel ban, and pulling out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership are all examples of Trump carrying out a far-right nationalist agenda. Through this comparison, I conclude that there is a global trend shifting away from a globalist, neoliberal world to a more protectionist, nationalist world. This trend will have impacts on the movement of people and goods across the globe. 1 DeBellis: Elections, Rhetoric, and Policy Published by University of Minnesota Morris Digital Well, 2018


Purpose: To determine the most accurate method of assessing clot lysis after percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy for iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and to evaluate the effectiveness of two different pharmacomechanical thrombectomy devices. Methods: Between 2004 and 2009, 33 patients (18 women; mean age 47 years) with iliofemoral DVT underwent pharmacomechanical thrombectomy using the AngioJet (n = 18) or Trellis (n = 15) devices with 10 mg of tenecteplase. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and venography were performed over the iliofemoral segments before and after treatment. Cross-sectional vessel and lumen diameters were measured from the IVUS scans and the post-procedure anteroposterior and lateral venograms at 3 points (proximal, mid-section, and distal) along each iliofemoral vein by 2 independent observers blinded to the treatment method. Volumes of the recanalized segments were calculated and compared to volumes of the original venous segments to assess clot lysis with each PMT device. IVUS scans and venograms were also compared for their ability to identify residual lesions or clot in need of treatment. Repeatability between and among observers was analyzed using the Bland and Altman method. Results: All procedures were successfully completed; there were only 2 minor bleeding complications. The mean volume of the recanalized segment was 2255±66 mm3 by IVUS, representing 80% lysis of the clot compared to what was perceived as >90% lysis with venography (p<0.05). IVUS was able to delineate significant residual thrombus, stenosis, or May-Thurner anatomy requiring ancillary interventions in 100% of patients versus 48% (16/33) on the venograms (p<0.01). Quantitative assessments of the diameters of the involved venous segments from the venograms and IVUS were consistent between and among observers. Comparing the similar patient subgroups, AngioJet resulted in greater clot lysis (88%) versus the Trellis device (72%; p<0.01), corresponding to recanalized venous segment volumes of 2486±74 and 2025±57 mm3 and total venous segment volumes of 2826±84 and 2813±79 mm3, respectively. Conclusion: IVUS is superior to venography for detection of residual thrombus and underlying venous pathology after pharmacomechanical thrombectomy. While greater clot lysis was seen with the AngioJet system, both the AngioJet and Trellis devices resulted in excellent clinical clot lysis.


The effects of different heat treatment temperatures on the structure and magnetic properties of Nd-Fe-B nanocomposite permanent magnetic alloys with nominal composition of Nd9.4Pr0.6Fe74.5Co6B6Ga0.5Ti1.5C1.5 have been investigated. The most practical method to produce nanostructured metallic materials is rapid solidification. Melt spinning with constant wheel speed of  m/s was employed to produce ribbons. As-spun ribbons were examined by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) with Cu-kα radiation. The ribbons were annealed at different temperatures in order to extract the best magnetic properties. The XRD and electron microscopy technique results confirm that grains are in the size of less than 50 nm. In addition, optimum magnetic properties were obtained at 700°C annealed temperature.


ABSTRACT Nguyen, Q.C.; Ian, D.G.; Mortlock R.T., and Gallop L.S., 2018. The influence of wind on hydrodynamic processes in Robbins Passage, Tasmania, Australia. In: Shim, J.-S.; Chun, I., and Lim, H.S. (eds.), Proceedings from the International Coastal Symposium (ICS) 2018 (Busan, Republic of Korea). Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 85, pp. 141–145. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. Understanding the hydrodynamic conditions in tidal inlets is vital for sustainable coastal management and structural design such as of harbours, sluices and dykes. The development and evolution of tidal inlets is due mainly to the interaction between tidal currents, longshore currents, waves and river flow with sediment transport. In addition, wind also plays an important role by generating local wind-waves that control the near-surface and also by its influence on water circulation. Robbins Passage is located off the far northwest of Tasmania, Australia. Robbins Passage is sheltered from swell, wave actions and uniquely oriented east-west, thus making it open to opposing wind directions and synoptic climate patterns. This study investigates the effect of wind on the hydrodynamic processes operating in Robbins Passage tidal inlet, using a two-dimensional flow model (MIKE21 HD) with high-resolution LiDAR-derived bathymetry. The simulated water levels were compared to water level observations at the eastern and western entrances of the inlet. Results from the calibrated model indicated that the model reproduces hydrodynamic conditions reasonably well (R2 = 0.89, RMSE = 0.09 at Kangaroo and R2 = 0.84, RMSE = 0.12 at Howie station). Results suggested that water level variations depend largely on wind direction. A shift in the predominant wind direction from Easterly to Westerly can change the tidal inlet regime from flood-dominated to ebb-dominated. Model results also indicate that a westerly wind stress can accelerate the ebb current and decrease water levels inside the inlet by up to 20% compared to easterly wind forcing, independent of tide. This may have implications for the hydrodynamic response of tidal inlets to changes in regional wind patterns predicted for the Southern Hemisphere mid-latitude tidal inlets.


We analyze the impact of a time-varying Rayleigh-fading channel on the performance of an Alamouti transmit-diversity scheme. We propose several optimal and suboptimal detection strategies for mitigating the effects of a time-varying channel, and derive expressions for their bit-error probability as a function of the channel correlation coefficient /spl rho/. We find that the maximum-likelihood detector that optimally compensates for the time-varying channel is very tolerant to time-varying fading, attaining full diversity order even for the extreme case of /spl rho/=0. In contrast, although lower in complexity, the suboptimal schemes suffer a diversity penalty and are thus suitable only for slowly fading channels.


The study examined; (i) whether the enhanced cognitive interview (ECI) would aid event recall when used with children, (ii) whether the effects of a delay between the witnessed event and interview would have an impact on the effectiveness of the ECI, (iii) whether the age of the child would have a bearing on the effectiveness of the ECI, and (iv) which category(ies) of event recall might be effected. Thirty-two 8 to 9 year old children and thirty-two 11 to 12 year old children were shown a video recording of a staged shoplifting. Half were interviewed four hours after viewing the event and half after a six day delay. Children were interviewed individually using either the ECI or a structured interview (SI). Those interviewed using the ECI recalled significantly more correct details (especially detail pertaining to actions) with no increase in the reporting of erroneous information. The ECI was found to be a reliable interviewing technique regardless of age and delay.