ABSTRACT Physician certification boards are an intrinsic part of medical professionalism, and the public is their key stakeholder. A decade ago, the 24 boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties committed to moving beyond the summative evaluation of physicians to a process of continuously evaluating and improving the care they deliver. The American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) has been a leader in this change and is making strategic investments in the next major evolution of continuous certification. Physicians are frustrated with the pace of change, inability to reliably assess and change their practices, and the perceived risk to both income and professional autonomy. Certifying boards are natural targets for that frustration. Certifying boards have an opportunity to support physicians in improving the quality and safety of healthcare and appeal to physicians' intrinsic motivation for doing so. The ABFM is not retreating from that challenge but is instead listening carefully to family physicians and making strategic investments to evolve. The ABFM is the first certifying board to launch a registry that is designed to support physician capacity for quality assessment, improvement, data-reporting requirements, and population management. It also supports more effective measure development and research. The ABFM aims to help physicians maintain the privilege of self-governance by helping them continuously earn it.


Aim Serum N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (Nt-proBNP), high sensitivity (hs)-C-reactive protein, and urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) are cardiovascular (CV) risk markers in the general population. The aim of this study was to determine whether they predicted CV events independently of established CV risk factors and whether they did so in an additive fashion. Methods and results In a population-based sample of 2656 individuals, 41, 51, 61, and 71 years old, we measured UACR, serum Nt-proBNP, hs-C-reactive protein, insulin, lipids and plasma glucose, clinic blood pressures, body composition, left ventricular (LV) mass index, and ejection fraction (EF) by echocardio-graphy and pulse wave velocity. During the following 9.4 years, the combined CV endpoint (CEP) of CV death (136), non-fatal stroke, or non-fatal myocardial infarction occurred in 219 subjects. After adjustment for established CV risk factors using Cox-regression analyses, CEP and CV death were predicted by log(Nt-proBNP)/SD [hazard ratio (HR) ¼ 1.58 and HR ¼ 1.80, both P , 0.001] and by log(UACR)/SD (HR ¼ 1.44 and HR ¼ 1.52, both P , 0.001) in an additive fashion, but not by log(hs-C-reactive protein)/SD (HR ¼ 1.17, P ¼ 0.06 and HR ¼ 1.13, NS). CV risk functions were constructed on the basis of Cox-regression analyses. Inclusion of Nt-proBNP and UACR did not increase the area under the receiver-operating characteristic plots. Conclusion Serum Nt-proBNP and UACR, but not hs-C-reactive protein, predicted CV events after adjustment for established CV risk factors including LV EF and relative wall thickness. However, more studies in relevant subgroups are needed before Nt-proBNP and UACR can be recommended for risk prediction in the general population to select subjects for primary prevention.


We study the problem of compression for the purpose of similarity identification, where similarity is measured by the mean square Euclidean distance between vectors. While the asymptotical fundamental limits of the problem-the minimal compression rate and the error exponent-were found in a previous work, in this paper, we focus on the nonasymptotic domain and on practical, implementable schemes. We first present a finite blocklength achievability bound based on shape-gain quantization: the gain (amplitude) of the vector is compressed via scalar quantization, and the shape (the projection on the unit sphere) is quantized using a spherical code. The results are numerically evaluated, and they converge to the asymptotic values, as predicted by the error exponent. We then give a nonasymptotic lower bound on the performance of any compression scheme, and compare to the upper (achievability) bound. For a practical implementation of such a scheme, we use wrapped spherical codes, studied by Hamkins and Zeger, and use the Leech lattice as an example for an underlying lattice. As a side result, we obtain a bound on the covering angle of any wrapped spherical code, as a function of the covering radius of the underlying lattice.


The objective of the paper was to summarize the literature findings on alcohol consumption with regard to risk of various gynecological cancers. A Medline search was performed considering available cohort and case–control studies published until 31st March 2009 examining the association between the consumption of alcoholic beverages and cancers of the cervix uteri, corpus uteri, endometrium, ovaries, vagina, and vulva. The number of prospective population-based studies with adequate information on confounding factors is low, particularly for cancers of the cervix, corpus uteri, vulva and vagina. Several register studies have found a higher risk of cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers among alcoholics than in the general population. However, these findings have not been confirmed in population-based studies in which confounding factors have been adjusted for. Endometrial, corpus uteri, and ovarian cancers do not seem to be related to alcohol consumption. Analyses regarding the dose–response relationship, source of alcohol (wine, beer, spirits) and interaction with other risk factors have not revealed any further associations. In conclusion, the current body of evidence, which is inadequate for several sites, suggests no association between alcohol consumption and risk of gynecological cancers.


Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are used more and more widely in various fields of activity and production. Industries using UAV images include agriculture and land use planning. From the images from the UAV, it is possible to generate digital elevation models (DEM) and digital terrain models (DTM) in a stereophotogrammetric manner, which can be used later for design work. At the same time, there is no need to use expensive specialized UAVs, since budget models of the domestic segment also allow to generate digital terrain models of high accuracy. So, for example, using the PHANTOM 4 model and using certain techniques, it is possible to generate DEM with an error of heights of 5-10 mm. However, such results were obtained due to the creation of almost ideal conditions for aerial survey. The authors of this work were tasked with investigating the possibility of DEM generation of a required accuracy with various options for the location of ground reference points, various parameters of aerial survey provided that photogrammetric processing of images will be carried out in the software Agisoft PhotoScan. To achieve these goals, an object for testing was selected, on which a network of reference and control points was created using a total station. According to the previously calculated parameters, aerial survey was carried out with a PHANTOM 4 UAV. Photogrammetric processing of aerial photographs was carried out in the software Agisoft PhotoScan. The accuracy of digital elevation models was assessed using the least squares method. According to the results of the calculations, the corresponding conclusions are made.


We study the Moyal evolution of the canonical position and momentum variables. We compare it with the classical evolution and show that, contrary to what is commonly found in the literature, the two dynamics do not coincide. We prove that this divergence is quite general by studying Hamiltonians of the form p2∕2m+V(q). Several alternative formulations of Moyal dynamics are then suggested. We introduce the concept of star function and use it to reformulate the Moyal equations in terms of a system of ordinary differential equations on the noncommutative Moyal plane. We then use this formulation to study the semiclassical expansion of Moyal trajectories, which is cast in terms of a (order by order in ℏ) recursive hierarchy of (i) first order partial differential equations as well as (ii) systems of first order ordinary differential equations. The latter formulation is derived independently for analytic Hamiltonians as well as for the more general case of locally integrable ones. We present various examples i...


The meat industry is one of the key sectors within the food industry in the Czech Republic. Development, especially in the pork production, is unfavourable. Negative foreign trade balance and low self-sufficiency is reported. Czech market products compete with foreign imports of meat and economic performance of enterprises plays an important role in this field. Article aims to identify qualitative factors limiting the competitiveness of the meat industry and to identify groups of enterprises with key position. The size of a company was confirmed as an only factor limiting the competitiveness. Statistically significant differences among the three performance indicators (out of the four analysed) were demonstrated. The larger the enterprise, the greater values of indicators are. Form of company ownership, drawing subsidies and region of the company cannot be confirmed as factors influencing the economic performance and competitiveness.


Background: Dual loaded liposomes have always been a hot topic of investigation because of their therapeutic advantages over single drug regimens. But simultaneous estimation of both the drugs during in vitro and in vivo analysis is most of the times a major obstacle for the researchers. This problem is even bigger when the two drugs are of opposite nature (hydrophilic and lipophilic). Methods: Here, we formulated anti-cancer liposomes loaded with Dacarbazine (hydrophilic) and Eugenol (lipophilic). Since both the drugs are of different nature, selecting a solvent system that dissolves both the drugs, as well as is a suitable media for determining in vitro release, was a challenge. After resolving this issue, we developed a simple and robust UV method based on the principle of solving simultaneous equations generated after Absorptivity measurements of the two drugs. Results: UV spectrophotometer is preferred over other analytical techniques because of its availability, broad area of applications, easy and fast handling, robust nature and simplicity. Thus, using the developed method for simultaneous determination, loading of the two drugs and their simultaneous release from the liposomes was determined. Conclusion: We could perform the in-vitro characterization of formulated anti-cancer liposomes using the developed UV Absorptivity method, which justifies the practical applicability of the developed method and proved that the method is specific and reproducible.


Provides the tools you will need to arrive at the correct diagnosis or a reasonable differential diagnosis Faced with a single neuroradiological image of an unknown patient, how confident would you be to make a differential diagnosis? Despite advanced imaging techniques, a confident diagnosis also requires knowledge of the patient's age, clinical data and the lesion location. This user-friendly book includes basic information often omitted from other texts: a practical method of image analysis, sample dictation templates and didactic information regarding lesions/diseases in a concise outline form. Image galleries show more than 700 high quality representative examples of the diseases discussed. Whether you are a trainee encountering some of these conditions for the first time or a resident trying to develop a reliable system of image analysis, Pattern Recognition Neuroradiology is an invaluable diagnostic resource. n Methods for analysing images and sample dictations/templates provide a structured way of thinking and reporting to better utilize limited time n The basic building blocks are provided in an easily extractable format making this book practical and usable n Over 700 high quality scans give examples of the diseases discussed and allow for comparison as pattern recognition skills are developed Rating: Doody's Star Rating®: (88) (1st)


Multiple-instance learning is a variation on supervised learning, where the task is to learn a concept given positive and negative bags of instances. Each bag may contain many instances, but a bag is labeled positive even if only one of the instances in it falls within the concept. A bag is labeled negative only if all the instances in it are negative. We describe a new general framework, called Diverse Density, for solving multiple-instance learning problems. We apply this framework to learn a simple description of a person from a series of images (bags) containing that person, to a stock selection problem, and to the drug activity prediction problem.


It is important for stakeholders, scientists, industry, lawyers, and decision-makers to understand the varying approaches to regulating drinking water contaminants. To increase awareness and understanding among stakeholder audiences of the legal framework for drinking water protection, the National Sea Grant Law Center (NSGLC) at the University of Mississippi School of Law has developed and implemented research and extension projects for lead, nitrates, and per-and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS). The NSGLC's mission is to encourage a well-informed constituency by providing legal information and analysis to the Sea Grant community, policy makers, and the general public through a variety of products and services. For each contaminant, the NSGLC conducted legal research to identify relevant laws, regulations, policies, and court decisions to gain an in-depth understanding of the existing legal framework. The NSGLC then translated its information on the current legal framework, identified gaps, and potential solutions into a variety of outreach programming. For each of the relevant drinking water contaminants, the NSGLC has taken different outreach approaches. For lead, the NSGLC has worked with an interdisciplinary academic team to conduct community-based research and outreach directly to families. With nitrates, the NSGLC has focused more on professional development for attorneys, natural resource managers, and other policy makers. With PFAS, the NSGLC is proposing a hybrid approach, drawing on lessons learned from its previous projects and the COVID-19 pandemic, to disseminate information to both professionals and communities. This case study will synthesize key findings on the legal overview, potential legal issues, and outreach efforts for lead, nitrates, and PFAS.


In biogeography the competitive exclusion principle (CEP) has been confirmed in some cases but not in others. This has fueled an unresolved debate between those advocating niche theory or the neutral theory in biodiversity and biogeography. We suggest that this situation mainly arises from the use of crisp logic, where the CEP is defined as either completely true or false. We propose the application of the fuzzy concepts of favorability (the degree to which environmental conditions are propitious for the occurrence of individual species) and favorableness (the degree to which environmental conditions are simultaneously favorable for competing species) to operationalize a fuzzy version of the CEP. Favorability was obtained by performing species distribution models applying favorability functions, while favorableness was derived from the application of the fuzzy intersection between the favorability for competing species. Then we plotted individual favorability values along the gradient of favorableness. Two potentially competing species would coexist in high-favorableness locations, as the demands of both species would be well fulfilled. In locations of low favorableness, the result would be either autecological exclusion of both species or autecological segregation, as abiotic conditions are unfavorable for at least one of the species. Competitive exclusion would occur at the intermediate stretch of the favorableness gradient, as the conditions would be good enough for persistence of each species separately but not enough for permanent coexistence. According to this theoretical framework, the observed probability that a location belongs to the intermediate favorableness area given that the two species co-occur in this location should be lower than expected according to the environmental probability models for the two species. We tested this prediction on published data about the distribution of pairs of native and introduced deer species in Great Britain, using a Bayesian approach. In two thirds of comparisons between a native and an introduced deer species the predictions of the fuzzy CEP were corroborated, which suggests that these are the pairs of species and the specific geographical areas affected by competitive exclusion. This is important both theoretically and for biodiversity conservation planning.


It has only been a few years since the private standard GlobalGap has been introduced in the Malagasy lychee value chain. Since the year 2005, under pressure from some European importers, many exporters have chosen to intensify relations with small-scale farmers and have assisted them in achieving GlobalGap certification. Indeed, in contrast with countries where farmers seeking certification have to pay for it, in Madagascar certification costs have been entirely supported by exporters themselves, often with financial support and technical assistance from donors and trade facilitators. This has entailed an unexpected situation, characterized by a boom in the number of certified farmers when development programs started, followed by a disengagement of some exporters, who have chosen to opt out of the GlobalGap compliance process as soon as financial supports ended. Taking advantage of this very specific context in the form of a natural experiment, we aim at understanding potential mechanisms through which Malagasy farmers may benefit from GlobalGap standards and assessing consequences on their marketing performances using original dataset. The results generally do not show any significant impact of certification on prices received by farmers. However, they suggest that certified farmers may have an opportunity to sell larger quantities because of a mechanical interest from exporters or because they are able to improve both quality and quantity by using new infrastructure built for requirements. On average, currently certified producers sell about 4.5 tons, which means 1 ton more than what they would have sold, had they not been uncertified. This estimate appears driven by certified farmers who carry their product to the treatment plant by themselves.


Metal structural crack monitoring is a significant and difficult task for structural health monitoring. A special coating sensor was employed in this study to monitor aluminum structural cracks. The coating sensor was deposited on the hot spots of the aluminum structure by modern surface technology. Fatigue experimental results show that the information of the structural crack origination and propagation can be obtained through analyzing the changes of the electrical conductivity of the coating sensor, and the fatigue performance of the specimen is not obviously changed after the coating sensor deposited on it.


This paper explores the linkages between poverty and disaster vulnerability in the context of remittance flows to households in the Caribbean. Jamaica is used as the case study country. The paper discusses the channels through which natural disasters and remittances affect each other but also reviews the distribution of female-headed households in Jamaica as a percentage of households living below the poverty line and seeks to identify whether flows of remittances alleviate the post-disaster living conditions of such households. The dislocation of households coupled with the loss of livelihoods caused by natural disaster, which usually affects the poor disproportionately, provides a push factor for migration and future remittances. After hurricane Gilbert in Jamaica (1988) there was an increase in migration. At the same time, there is an increased flow of remittances to help alleviate some of the suffering in the aftermath of a natural disaster. The paper concludes that given the increase in remittances to Jamaica, this flow of income could be used to smooth out the consumption patterns of already vulnerable, female-headed households living in poverty.


The objective of this study is to simulate the nonlinear systems by using the robust fuzzy controller. This method constitutes a robust tool enough to stabilize a nonlinear system with parametric uncertainties and the wind disturbance. The considered systems are Takagi-Sugeno type characterized by a nonlinear representation. This algorithm uses the local models of the system, obtained around operating points established by human expertise in the form of rules IF-THEN type. It is developed as shown by the model relative to the wind energy systems having a double-fed induction generator (DFIG) which is considered to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Hence, the proposed algorithm maximizes power output and ensures the stability of the system in term of the parameter uncertainties and to show it performances, results obtained by retained algorithm are compared to those obtained by the proportional integral (PI) controller algorithm.


The 2020 Transatlantic Security Jam brought together military professionals and experts from a wide range of related disciplines Their goal was to discuss and to analyze how NATO and its partners, including the European Union, can develop and enhance capabilities to address new and emerging security challenges The online Security Jam took place soon after the start of one of the greatest asymmetric challenges we have seen – the COVID-19 pandemic The pandemic has challenged every assumption on what is meant by security and resilience that we have had since the end of the Second World War With this in mind, the participants proposed how we can both adapt to and proactively foresee emerging security challenges now and in the future This article summarizes the discussions which took place and the proposals put forward These proposals include a much more holistic approach to addressing security challenges that transcend the tra-ditional 'siloed' or 'compartmentalized' approach we have grown so accus-tomed to © 2020, Partnership for Peace Consortium of Defense Academies and Security Studies Institutes All rights reserved


StW 352, from Sterkfontein Member 4 (South Africa), is a partial calcaneus attributed to Australopithecus africanus and is dated to ~2.0–2.6 Ma. The unusual robusticity of the peroneal trochlea (PT) of StW 352 has been commented on by several authors. The size of hominin PTs has been hypothesised to be positively correlated with the degree of recruitment of peroneus longus during bipedal locomotion and/ or climbing. Given the potential functional relevance of an enlarged PT for reconstructing hominin activity patterns, we present the following previously unrecognised structural details of the reconstructed StW 352 that affect current interpretations of its functional morphology: (1) we estimate that the PT has been reattached to the body of the calcaneus ~5 mm dorso-distally from its original anatomical position; and (2) the presence of intrusive matrix has artificially misshaped the PT by expanding it laterally and proximodistally. Future studies of this specimen that apply geometric morphometrics, or other shape analysis tools, should compensate for these inaccuracies before undertaking comparisons between it and other calcanei. Additionally, given that the PT is likely smaller than previously reported for StW 352, caution should be exercised when using it to infer muscle function and extrapolate activity patterns of this individual, and thus by extension, within Australopithecus africanus in general. Lastly, these findings highlight the importance of not only the production of accurate reconstructions, but also the critical evaluation of the accuracy of existing reconstructions when working with damaged fossil material.

Significance:

This work epitomises the value of critically evaluating original fossil reconstructions, especially of postcranial elements.
New technologies (e.g. microCT) offer non-destructive opportunities for evaluating/improving the accuracy of fossil reconstructions.
Re-assessing StW 352 suggests peroneal muscles may have factored less prominently in A. africanus locomotion than previously thought.


In this paper, the fatigue crack propagation (FCP) behaviors of the forged Mg-Zn-Y-Zr alloy with different tempers were investigated. At the stage 1 of the FCP, the K-da/dN curves were distinguished from each other. However, at the stage 2 of the FCP, the K-da/dN curves were almost the same. SEM fracture analysis indicated that at the stage 2 of FCP, the fracture characteristics of the forged and T5 samples were similar, with many deep dimples on the fracture surfaces, whereas the fracture surfaces of the T4 and T6 samples were covered with lots of lamellar cleavage planes. SEM observations also indicated that the microstructures were distinguished from each other. For the forged and T5 samples, many big bulk w-Mg3Y2Zn3 phases distributed in the Mg matrix. However, for the T4 and T6 samples, due to the solid solution treatment, w-Mg3Y2Zn3 phases were almost completely decomposed and many coarse rod-like 1 precipitates appeared in the interior of the grains. These firmly confirmed that the variation of the microstructures had great influence on the fatigue crack propagation (FCP) characteristics of the Mg-Zn-Y-Zr alloy.


[1] Equatorial vertical plasma drift is an important consequence of the E and F region dynamos. Understanding the climatology of vertical drift can provide significant insight into many ionospheric phenomena. In this study we present the first empirical model of vertical plasma drifts at 150 km altitude, observed by the Jicamarca Unattended Long-term studies of the Ionosphere and Atmosphere (JULIA) coherent scatter radar located in Peru. The model, called JULIA Vertical Drift Model (JVDM), describes the local time, seasonal, and solar flux behavior of the equatorial vertical drifts in the Peruvian sector. The model is valid from 0800 through 1600 local time, which is typically when JULIA makes vertical drift measurements. During very high solar flux conditions, however, the model is unreliable before 1000 local time owing to a lack of JULIA data. The model includes a climatology of the 150 km equatorial vertical drifts as well as an estimate of the day-to-day variability, which can be significant. The daytime drifts typically peak between 1000 and 1200 LT and have amplitudes of 25–30 m/s ± 10 m/s. The model has been validated against the global empirical model of Scherliess and Fejer, with a total rms difference of under 4 m/s for 1000 to 1600 LT. This model will allow researchers to study daily variations in the equatorial electric field by subtracting the climatological mean. Model coefficients and software are available online at http://geomag.org/models and http://www.earthref.org.


Two cases of coastal protection against erosion by the sea are discussed. In one, near Beira, the main object is to preserve the coastline; the other, near Lourenco Marques, is more directly concerned with the formation and protection of beaches for tourists. The report also shows how administrative routine is liable to affect or cause difficulties in the solution of hydraulic engineering problems associated with the sea. 1) Brief reference is made in Section I to active and passive coastal protection structures of the longitudinal (connected to or separate from the shore) and transverse (groyne or breakwater) types. The possibility is mentioned of protecting a coast in certain cases by remote action on currents and waves affecting the area concerned. The high degree of technical specialisation required to deal with problems of coast protection against sea erosion is emphasised, also the difficulty that local authorities lacking the necessary specialised means and facilities frequently attempt to solve such problems without competent outside assistance. Typical instances are the construction by such authorities of Inadequate structures for town-planning or other purposes along stretches of coast under their control, in positions that can be affected by the free wave expansion within the various configurations the unprotected beach is liable to assume about its mean equilibrium position. 2) Section II__"Protection of the coast at Beira"__more specially considers (a) the considerable tide range at Beira, which exceeds 7 meters, (b) the existence of a deep underwater depression with strong tide flows, which extends between part of the beach and offshore sandbanks to the main harbour channel through the Pungue estuary bar, and (c) the predominance of east south-easterly waves and the pronounced east-to-westerly sediment drift along the coast. Beach cross-sections observed between 1954 and 1959 are analysed, and the behaviour of groynes built at various times by local authorities is discussed, considering the effects v' their unsuitable cross-sectional designs, their insufficient length and the inadequate features of the protection pattern as a whole, this despite the fact that it has so far not progressed any further than a temporary intermediate stage pending its eventual completion at some future date. Section II also briefly explains the effects observed near the groynes and along the foreshore, and draws attention to a sharp break in the slope of the beach half-way down it, just at the ends of these excessively short groynes. Because of this break, the waves more readily reach up to the vicinity of the dunes or the coastal road at peak spring tides, than would be the case with an even beach slope, which would more efficiently break their energy by progressive friction against the bed. Attention is drawn to the serious drawbacks of tall vertical__fronted groynes exposed to direct wave attack especially from the west__i.e. the opposite to the direction of sediment inflow from the sea. The intended purpose of the groynes is described in its broad outlines, being mainly to establish a stable beach with a gentle slope gradually neutralising wave and current attack along the seashore. The economic aspect of the problem is stressed, which should not merely be confined to the structure, but must also consider the value of areas included in the protection scheme, or earmarked for some other useful purpose. 3) Section III__"Beach protection at Lourenco Marques"__describes how the longitudinal protection works along the initial built-up urban coastal stretch and the Costa do Sol coastal highway (vertical-fronted structures, or with a batter exceeding 1 : 1,as built by the local authorities for several years) were gradually causing the disappearance of the beaches along this sea front, making it necessary to design a transverse type of protection structure to keep the sand in place along the foreshore and thus to form a type of beach certain to attract tourists. Cross-sections of the type of protection groyne finally adopted are described and its effectiveness discussed. These groynes were about 300 m long, with lateral slopes of about 1 : 3; they extended to the hydrographic datum level and were mainly effective (a) in stopping the erosion which had been developing in front of the marine drive sea wall, (b) in causing sand to accumulate on the sandy clay sea bed and to cover stones already laid bare, and (c) in causing the top of the dunes to advance seawards. Notwithstanding the small alleviation taking place along the part of the beach on which the groynes stand, the essential aim was to capture the sand drifting in either direction-depending on wave incidence-in order to distribute it as evenly as possible between the groynes. The distance between individual groynes is about one and a half times their length; the groyne tips are roughly at the hydrographic datum level. 4) Section IV__"Conclusions"__sums up the inferences drawn from this work and the recommendations they enable to be made, which fall under separate general and specific headings. Those under the general heading essentially refer to the need to interrelate coastal protection works with other problems associated with town or harbour planning (especially the development or improvement of river estuaries to provide suitable shipping channels to harbours), or problems of any other nature, and to try to ensure the best possible return for the money invested in the project. Ii is recommended that any problem or structure along the coast likely to or capable of interfering with free wave expansion or tide flows be investigated, or at least checked, by a competent coastal engineering organisation, even if the area concerned is under the jurisdiction of a local authority. Under the "specific" heading, general disapproval is expressed of tall vertical-fronted groyne designs. It is recommended that the longitudinal slope of the groynes he made roughly the same as the beach slope eventually to be achieved, and that-depending on requirements-the groynes should extend clown to or beyond the hydrographical datum level. The importance of considering tide range when designing protection works against sea erosion is emphasised, also the need for a combined use of transverse and longitudinal protection works and the advisability of building the latter type as light as possible where the former type affords efficient protection.


A five-element inverted-F antenna array on mobile terminal for both multiple input multiple output (MIMO) communications and radio direction finding (RDF) applications is presented. The multi-element antenna (MEA) system has been designed to be used in the frequency band of the future Long Term Evolution (LTE) system at 3400–3600 MHz and integrated along the edges of the upper ground plane of a clamshell type mobile terminal. Without using any specific multi-antenna isolation techniques, the antennas have been optimized to have acceptable mutual coupling and small envelope correlation in order to provide enhanced capacity with multiple input multiple output (MIMO) techniques. The ambiguities of the proposed design in RDF applications have also been investigated. A prototype has been fabricated and tested. Good agreement between numerical simulations and experimental results has validated the antenna concept.


We study a contextual bandit setting where the learning agent has the ability to perform interventions on targeted subsets of the population, apart from possess-ing qualitative causal side-information. This novel formalism captures intricacies in real-world scenarios such as software product experimentation where targeted experiments can be conducted. However, this fundamentally changes the set of options that the agent has, compared to standard contextual bandit settings, ne-cessitating new techniques. This is also the first work that integrates causal side-information in a contextual bandit setting, where the agent aims to learn a policy that maps contexts to arms (as opposed to just identifying one best arm). We propose a new algorithm, which we show empirically performs better than baselines on experiments that use purely synthetic data and on real world-inspired experiments. We also prove a bound on regret that theoretically guards performance.


In this paper, the automated spatially dependent regularization parameter selection framework for multi-scale image restoration is applied to total generalized variation (TGV) of order 2. Well-posedness of the underlying continuous models is discussed and an algorithm for the numerical solution is developed. Experiments confirm that due to the spatially adapted regularization parameter, the method allows for a faithful and simultaneous recovery of fine structures and smooth regions in images. Moreover, because of the TGV regularization term, the adverse staircasing effect, which is a well-known drawback of the total variation regularization, is avoided.


Objective: Bipolar affective disorder is clinically heterogeneous, and clinical features that run in families may help define more homogeneous phenotypes. The authors sought to establish whether polarity at illness onset, which is related to severity and course, is a familial feature of bipolar affective disorder. Method: The authors studied 971 subjects from 507 families ascertained through sibling pairs with bipolar I or schizoaffective bipolar disorder. Self-reported ages at onset of mania and major depression were used to code polarity at onset as manic, major depressive, or both (mania and major depression in the same onset year). Familial clustering was estimated by using mixed-effects regression analysis, and the relationship between polarity at onset and several other clinical features was assessed. As a preliminary test of genetic validity, the authors assessed the impact of polarity at onset on genetic linkage findings previously detected in this sample. Results: Polarity at onset was significantly familial in this sample. This largely reflected relative pairs concordant for mania at onset, which occurred significantly more frequently than would be expected by chance. Mania at onset substantially increased the genetic linkage signal on chromosome 16p (maximum lod score=4.5) but had no effect on linkage to chromosome 6q. Mania at onset occurred at a later age on average than major depression at onset and was less likely to be complicated by panic attacks or alcoholism. Conclusions: Polarity at illness onset is a familial feature of bipolar affective disorder and is associated with important clinical indicators, which may help define more homogeneous subtypes of bipolar affective disorder.


Terrestrial surface waters and submarine ground water discharge (SGD) act as a source of dissolved substances for coastal systems. Solute fluxes of SGD depend on the ground water composition and the water-solid-microbe interactions close to the sediment-water interface. Thus, this study aims to characterize and evaluate the hydrogeochemical gradients developing in the fresh-salt water mixing zone of the Wismar Bay (WB), southern Baltic Sea, Germany. Sampling campaigns covering the WB, the fresh-salt water mixing zone at the beach of the WB shoreline, terrestrial surface and ground waters near the WB as well sediments pore water were carried out. In these different waters, the distribution of dissolved inorganic carbon, nutrients, major ions, trace elements, stable isotopes (H, O, C, S), and radium isotopes have been investigated. Enhanced concentrations of radium isotopes together with dissolved manganese, barium in the surface waters of the eastern WB indicated benthic-pelagic coupling via the exchange between pore water and the water column. Salinity, stable isotopes, and major ions in sediment pore water profiles identified the presence of fresh ground water below about 40 cmbsf in the central part of the bay. Geophysical acoustic techniques revealed the local impact of anthropogenic sediment excavation, which reduced the thickness of a sediment layer between the coastal aquifer and the bottom water, causing, therefore, a ground water upward flow close to the top sediments. The fresh impacted pore water stable isotope composition (δ18O, δ2H) plot close to the regional meteoric water line indicating a relatively modern ground water source. The calculated organic matter mineralization rates and the dissolved inorganic carbon sediment-water fluxes were much higher at the fresh impacted site when compared to other unimpacted sediments. Therefore, this study reveals that different fresh water sources contribute to the water balance of WB including a SGD source.


Environmental variables in a malaria geographic information system (GIS) database were analysed to discriminate between governorates at high and low risk of malaria. Only Fayoum governorate was categorized as a high risk area for malaria during the last 2 decades. Discriminant models correctly classified 96.3% of the risk categories and indicated that the most important predictor of risk is hydrogeology. Further GIS spatial analysis indicated that the high malaria risk in Fayoum is associated with a unique environmental envelope of biotic (presence of both efficient malaria vectors) and abiotic (hydrogeology and soil) variables. Recommendations for surveillance and control are discussed.


We present an analytic model for blue straggler formation in globular clusters. We assume that blue stragglers are formed only through stellar collisions and binary star evolution, and compare our predictions to observed blue straggler numbers. We can summarize our key results as follows. (1) Binary star evolution consistently dominates blue straggler production in all our best-fitting models. (2) In order to account for the observed sublinear dependence of blue straggler numbers on the core masses, the core binary fraction must be inversely proportional to the total cluster luminosity and should always exceed at least a few per cent. (3) In at least some clusters, blue straggler formation must be enhanced by dynamical encounters (either via direct collisions or by stimulating mass transfer to occur by altering the distribution of binary orbital parameters) relative to what is expected by assuming a simple population of binaries evolving in isolation. (4) The agreement between the predictions of our model and the observations can be improved by including blue stragglers that form outside the core but later migrate in due to dynamical friction. (5) Longer blue straggler lifetimes are preferred in models that include blue stragglers formed outside the core since this increases the fraction that will have sufficient time to migrate in via dynamical friction.


Some women with abnormal uterine bleeding may be able to avoid hysterectomy by making the best use of available medical options. But the results of two new studies show that despite aggressive medical management most women with menorrhagia unrelated to pregnancy or malignancy will eventually need surgery and will undergo additional suffering by forestalling more definitive treatment ( JAMA 2004;291:1447-55,1456-63).

The two studies contained some conflicting conclusions and differed with respect to the controls. The first study used "expanded medical therapy" with sex steroid hormones or prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors, or both. The other study used an intrauterine administration of a continuous release progestational hormone that is only available for this indication in Europe (marketed as Mirena by Schering Health).

The …


Days of Decision spans a century of American foreign policymaking, from the Spanish- American War of 1898 to the attacks of September 11, 2001. Michael J. Nojeim and David P. Kilroy carefully examine twelve foreign-policy landmarks, each of which played a crucial role in shaping world history and led to profound changes in U.S. foreign policy. Devoting one chapter to each turning point, they place it in its proper historical context, explore its political consequences-primarily the debates and divisions that arose among policymakers-and discuss the aftermath, focusing on its lasting influence on world affairs and the conduct of American diplomacy and foreign affairs. This accessible, introductory text provides students of foreign policy and international relations a deeper understanding of these disciplines'processes and of America's place in the world.


This editorial paper aims to present and explore the role of Performing Arts within Special Education and individuals with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC). It provides some initial introduction of recognized benefits and evidence based studies within health and wellbeing, education and society. It then aims to focus on how through engagement and development in the performing arts, three fundamental psychological needs can be developed, nurtured and maintained: 1) autonomy, 2) belonging and 3) competence. It aims to explain how by adopting a methodology through a process of 'performance' the aforementioned psychological needs can be addressed within special education and individuals with additional needs and with autistic individuals (ASC). Through a creative and yet structured approach a number of skills can be taught with significant benefits and positive short and long-term outcomes. This creative process also aims to highlight how specific barriers in accessing their learning can be overcome. It concludes by providing some suggestions for further evidence-based research in this field so as to strengthen and further develop the already but somehow limited existing evidence based of the benefits of Performing Arts.


Background: The context of learning, which includes the host country, is an important variable of service-learning. Since international service-learning programs often take place in developing countries, studies about their impact and outcomes commonly draw from experiences in developing countries. Purpose: We investigate service-learning experience in developed, urban settings focusing on dissonances and civic outcomes, key areas of service-learning pedagogy. Methodology/Approach: This an instrumental case study based on a small group sample of 12 Asian student participants of a service-learning exchange to partner universities in the USA. Findings/Conclusions: Findings suggest that developed cities can be fertile grounds for impactful dissonances and civic learning. "First-world expectations" increased or intensified dissonances students experienced. Confronting urban poverty and other social issues in cities similar to their own led students to see domestic problems with fresh eyes. Implications: Service-learning exchange in developed cities can facilitate understanding social problems particularly in the way these occur in developed countries and promises transferability of learning. However, students need prompting to connect experiences overseas to home contexts and draw practical consequences. Faculty or staff assistance is necessary to help students constructively cope with powerful dissonances.


The impact of cats (Felis catus) on the biodiversity of Christmas Island is of significant concern to land management agencies and the broader community. In 2010, a management plan for cats, and also black rats (Rattus rattus), was commissioned that would mitigate the environmental and social impacts of these alien invasives across the island. A strategy was recommended that provided a staged approach to their management and control leading to eradication of one or both target species. For cats, Stage 1 initially involved gaining approval of revisions to the current local cat management laws that prohibited importation of new cats; this was then followed by a veterinary programme to de-sex, micro-chip and register all domestic cats. Stage 2 required removal of all non-domestic (i.e., stray/feral) cats within the residential, commercial and light industrial zones. Without implementation of Stage 2, a significant source of cats, particularly natal recruits, would be available to disperse into or reinvade territories vacated across the island. Stage 2 was required before an island-wide control programme (Stage 3) could be implemented. Stage 1 of the programme has been completed with 135 domestic cats currently registered. Stage 2 has led to the majority of stray/feral cats being destroyed within the residential, commercial and light industrial area. Two hundred and seventy-eight stray/feral cats were removed from this area since May 2011, primarily through cage-trapping. Two baiting programmes have been conducted around the periphery of the residential area with between 36-49 cats being removed in 2011 and a further 103-142 stray/feral cats poisoned during a more extensive programme in 2012. The combined trapping and baiting programmes have resulted in between 417-469 stray/feral cats being removed since the commencement of the plan. Continued funding is essential for a successful conclusion to the cat eradication programme on the island.


The authors investigated the influence of Kt/V and protein catabolic rate (PCR) on dialysis failure for 689 hemodialysis (HD) outpatients treated at the seven dialysis facilities in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. Dialysis failure was defined as death or hospitalization for reasons other than blood access, accident, wound, or mental disease. Patients were followed for 2 years. The rate of patients who developed dialysis failure during the observation period relative to the total patient population was defined as the dialysis failure rate. A total of 123 patients developed dialysis failure, which was fatal in 33 cases. In patients with Kt/V values of 1.6 or higher, the mean dialysis failure rate was significantly lower at 12.0% than that (19.2%) of patients with Kt/V values between 0.8 and 1.6 (p < 0.04). In patients that had PCR values under 0.8 g/kg/day, the dialysis failure rate was significantly higher at 32.5% than that (15.8%) of patients with PCR values between 0.8 and 1.4 g/kg/day (p < 0.0001).


Thermoplastic-photoconductor devices are attractive for holographic recording because of their relatively high sensitivities, efficient holograms, and record-erase capabilities. Recent improvements in charging techniques and in the thermoplastic materials should increase the utility of these devices. Charge was applied from a transparent electrode located parallel to and at a small distance from the thermoplastic surface; charging was rapid and uniform without moving parts. Thermoplastics synthesized by polymerizing mixtures of styrene and methacrylates were capable of over 5000 record-erase cycles. Measurements of holographic recording and reconstruction parameters are presented to lend insight to the operation of these devices.


This thesis describes a study on 55 adoptive families. The 55 children were internationally adopted, became the first child in their adoptive family and were less than 12 months of age on arrival. Before the arrival of the adopted child in her family the mother's mental representation of attachment was classified with the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI). When the child was 14 months of age, the Strange Situation procedure (SSp) was conducted to classify the attachment relationship of the child with the adoptive mother. Also at 14 months of age, the sensitive responsiveness of the mother in interaction with her child was observed and rated during a home visit.
The first question concerned, whether a concordance similar to that found in the Van IJzendoorn (1995) meta-analysis could be found for the classical three-way attachment classification between mother and child; and, when indeed an intergenerational transmission of attachment was found, could the sensitive responsiveness of the mother then be traced as a mediator of this transmission process. The second question specifically concerned the recently discovered insecure disorganised attachment classification. A larger percentage of this category of insecure disorganised attachment was expected to be found for the adopted child as well as for the adoptive mother, compared to the percentages in the standard groups of the meta-studies.
The distribution of the classical three-way attachment classifications for the mothers as well as for the children was comparable to those in standard groups. Sixty two per cent of all children were securely attached, for the mothers the percentage of autonomous classifications was 46 per cent. Despite the 'normal' distributions of a three-way attachment classification for mother and child no concordance in attachment classifications was found. Remarkably, the mother's attachment classification was not associated with her sensitive responsiveness. A connection between the sensitive responsiveness of the mother and the attachment classification of the child also was missing. A rather large group of securely attached children (31%) unexpectedly had a mother with a non-autonomous mental representation of attachment. An assumption could be, that just the absence of a genetic link, in combination with the specific constellation of the adoptive family, may have encouraged mothers with an insecure non-autonomous attachment classification to be as sensitive responsive as mothers classified with an autonomous mental representation of attachment.
When classified according to the four-way classification system, a higher percentage (58%) of the children was insecurely attached compared to the standard group. As expected the adopted children in this research group were more often (36%) insecurely disorganised attached. The adoptive mothers were more frequently classified as 'unresolved' (24 mothers, 44%) than the standard group according to the original standard questions. With the additional items on miscarriage and infertility treatment the total group classified as 'unresolved' was 51 per cent (28 mothers). No concordance was found between disorganised attachment of the adoptive mother and disorganised attachment of her adopted child.


This book provides a history of British financial crises since the Napoleonic wars. Interest in crises lapsed during the generally benign financial conditions which followed the Second Word War, but the study of banking markets and financial crises has returned to centre stage following the credit crunch of 2007-8 and the subsequent Eurozone crisis. The first two chapters provide an overview of British financial crises from the bank failures of 1825 to the credit crunch of 2007-8. The causes and consequences of individual crises are explained and recurrent features are identified. Subsequent chapters provide more detailed accounts of the railway boom-and-bust and the subsequent financial crisis of 1847, the crisis following the collapse of Overend Gurney in 1866, the dislocation of London's money market at the outset of the Great War in 1914 and the crisis in 1931 when sterling left the gold standard. Other chapters consider the role of regulation, banks' capital structures, and the separation of different types of banking activity. The book examines the role of the Bank of England as lender of last resort and the successes and failures of crisis management. The scope for reducing the risk of future systemic crises is assessed. The book will be of interest to students, market practitioners, policymakers and general readers interested in the debate over banking reform. Contributors to this volume - Gareth Campbell, Queen's University Forrest Capie, CASS Business School, City University Youssef Cassis, European University Institute Nicholas Dimsdale, University of Oxford Marc Flandreau, Institute de Hautes Etudes Nicholas Horsewood, University of Birmingham Anthony Hotson, University of Cambridge and University of Oxford Avner Offer, University of Oxford Richard Roberts, King's College London John Turner, Queen's University Stefano Ugolini, University of Toulouse 1


An Intelligent Lighting Control System (ILCS) was proposed and designed by considering ergonomic setting and energy efficiency. The integration of CompactRIO as a main hardware and National Instrument Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench (NI LabVIEW) 2012 as a platform to design an interactive Graphical User Interface (GUI) as well as integrating components within the system. The proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller programmed in NI LabVIEW provides autonomous dimmer control and adjustment of the light-emitting diode ( LED ) lamp with respect to present Lux value. Performance tests conducted shows the developed system capable of controlling the luminosity of the LED lamp based on the luminance set point. Moreover, the result also showed the average power saving of up to 33% compared to normal use. However, several modifications and improvements are desired before the system could be applied in actual environment.


1. As the quantity of nectar of a given species of plant becomes smaller, irrespective of its sugar concentration, so the number of bees working that species of plant becomes reduced. This is not due to old bees that have been working this crop for some time deserting it in favour of a more profitable crop, but to the natural death of these old bees and the fact that their places are not taken by new bees. Young foragers are not attracted to the crop concerned because its presence is not communicated to them by the old bees still working upon it. 2. The range of nectar concentration (% total carbohydrate) in the flowers of many species of plants growing in a given district varies from day to day and even from hour to hour. Such changes are almost certainly directly due to changes in the atmospheric humidity. The changes are greatest in flowers, such as hawthorn, with relatively unprotected nectaries. 3. Honeybees respond to the concentration of nectar secreted by the flowers of plants, working in the greatest numbers on those plants with the highest nectar concentration. 4. When two or more species of 'bee-plants' are in flower simultaneously the species which will attract most honeybees will be that in the flowers of which the nectar is most highly concentrated. This accounts for the occasional failure of honeybees to work the flowers of fruit trees when other flowers are available to them. 5. Both nectar abundance and nectar concentration appear to have considerable effect upon honeybee activity. From the data at present available it appears correct to conclude tentatively that nectar concentration decides in the first instance which species of plant will be visited in preference to others in flower at the same time, and that nectar abundance then determines the proportion of the foraging population of a colony which will work the flowers in question.


This work establishes the relationship between bioclimatology and agronomy. Bioclimatic indices are obtained for several areas under olive cultivation and correlated with olive yields. Due to the effect of climate change on cultivation and the high economic losses it produces, we propose a sustainable development model for the territorial classification of crops based on bioclimatic knowledge. Bioclimatic diagrams are prepared to provide information on water stress in crops so that irrigation can be carried out at the most effective time, a measure that has been shown to lead to water and energy savings for growers. In addition to this development model, we propose the application of non-aggressive cultivation techniques such as the use of living plant cover to ensure the protection of the soil and avoid losses due to climate irregularities. Studies conducted up to the present on applied bioclimatology have yielded promising results in the fields of farming and forestry. The maps and bioclimatic indices of Professor Rivas-Martínez, Ic, Io and It/Itc, are essential for bioclimatic classification. The agricultural development model with a bioclimatic basis ensures economic savings for growers and minimizes the environmental impact of cultivation. In the case of olive cultivation we detected that in 2005 all the cultivated areas that were not in their thermoclimatic optimum were damaged by frost. The widespread cultivation of olive groves in the Mediterranean basin, and mainly in the south of Spain, is reason enough to establish a relationship between its production and its bioclimatic environment. The ombroclimatic study in certain localities under olive cultivation shows that areas with Io <2.5 are unproductive (Jodar, Tabernas), and that their low Io value needs to be supplemented with irrigation water. This means extracting water from aquifers for agricultural use, when the current climate irregularities do not allow the excessive use of subsoil water. For the time being the only way of mitigating this situation is with sustainable development, which requires a bioclimatic understanding of the territory; and the use of appropriate cultivation techniques, including herbaceous plant covers. In this last case a knowledge of the plant associations in the phytosociological class Stellarietea mediae constitutes the basis for establishing either natural or sown vegetation cover.


The aim of the paper is to present a conceptual framework which explores the application of relationship marketing in the maritime sector and especially the factors affecting shipping companies and ship-brokers' partnerships. In particular, this survey illustrates the relations among opportunism, affective and calculative commitment and trust. A special survey instrument was developed and tested with Exploratory Factor and Regression Analyses. Data from 109 ship-brokers were collected through personal interviews. The results finally indicated that the three constructs named affective commitment; calculative commitment and trust are statistically significant for opportunism. Based on the fact that there are few publication literature exploring the principles of relationship marketing in the maritime sector, this pape aims to find out how the above mentioned constructs are linked. On the other hand, practitioners are interested in getting informed about the collaborations between shipping companies - shipbrokers in order to lead to more focused and structured partnerships.

JEL Classification: M1, M3, L9


We develop Mean Field Variational Bayes methodology for fast approximate inference in Bayesian Generalized Extreme Value additive model analysis. Such models are useful for flexibly assessing the impact of continuous predictor variables on sample extremes. The new methodology allows large Bayesian models to be fitted and assessed without the significant computing costs of Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods. We illustrate our new methodology with maximum rainfall data from the Sydney, Australia, hinterland. Comparisons are made between the Mean Field Variational Bayes and Markov Chain Monte Carlo approaches.


L-Arginine (Arg or R) is a non-toxigenic, metabolically versatile and conditionally essential amino acid. Single-pot synthesis of Arg modified magnetic nanoparticles (RMNPs) was achieved using magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) and binary function of Arg as a functional group and an alkali precipitator. This modification is supposed to offer several advantages to the MNPs from a bio-application viewpoint. Here, the influence of RMNPs in the structure and function of the model protein hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) is reported. After synthesis of RMNPs, VSM, XRD, FT-IR, Zetasizer, TEM, and SEM were used to characterize the nanoparticles. The impact of RMNPs was investigated on lysozyme structure and activity during storage and in the processes of denaturation and refolding by dilution or dialysis using fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD) and UV/Vis spectroscopies. RMNPs revealed structural ordering or disordering effects on lysozyme in a RMNP:HEWL ratio dependent manner. Accordingly, a concentration ratio of threshold (CRT) was determined at 0.296. At ratios lower than the CRT the protein gained more ordered structure with increased helicity. Inversely, HEWL was increasingly unfolded and helicity was decreased at ratios higher than the CRT, rendering the protein more disordered after interaction with RMNPs. At RMNPs:HEWL concentration ratios above and even below the CRT, 6 M urea had a further disordering effect. Nevertheless, significant improvements were observed in the refolding of the protein due to dilution or dialysis, by courtesy of the RMNPs. The presented data helps to expand the thriving applications of RMNPs in biotechnology and biomedicine.


To the Editor.—I read the interesting article "Colectomy With Rectal Mucosectomy and Illeoanal Anastomosis in Young Patients" by Drs Telander and Perrault (Archives1981;116:623-629). Dr Sam Schneider (deceased) of St Louis operated on a series of patients in the early 1950s. I had an opportunity to work with him on three of these cases. A motion picture of this procedure by Dr Schneider was shown at a clinical congress of the American College of Surgeons in the 1950s and was, as I recall, met with tongue in cheek. Dr Schneider's procedure involved isolating a terminal loop of ileum as a mucous fistula, with the distal end being brought through the anus and anastomosed. The extraperitoneal rectum was prepared by a mucosectomy using the uterine curette (the blood loss was amazingly controlled and not excessive). A formal ileostomy was performed in the right lower quadrant in the usual manner and


The uniformity of the cell size of aluminum foams prepared by traditional melt foaming and gas injection methods is difficult to control. In order to improve the controllability of cell size and mechanical performance of aluminum foam, an A356 matrix syntactic foam was prepared by the improved stir casting process. Moreover, the compressive property of the syntactic foam was studied and compared with other metal foams. Al2O3 hollow spheres with the diameters of 35mm were added in the molten A356 alloy, then the syntactic foam can be obtained after stirring and compaction. The hollow spheres in the syntactic foam are random loose packed. The volume fraction of 33.5mm hollow spheres in the syntactic foam could reach to 56%. The total densities of the syntactic foams are around 1.79 g/cm3. Through the analysis both in macroscopic and microscopic, the interfacial bonding between aluminum matrix and hollow spheres was proved to be good even after mechanical cutting. The quasi-static compression result showed that the plateau stress of the syntactic foam with 33.5mm hollow spheres could reach up to 46MPa, and the corresponding densification strain energy is 20MJ/m3. Moreover, the plateau region is flat, long and relatively high. The syntactic foam with the hollow spheres of 34mm diameter has the highest overall porosity and the best compressive performance. Compared with other traditional aluminum foams, this syntactic foam has advantages in energy absorption performance and the adjustability of cell size. [doi:10.2320/matertrans.M2018003]


A brief review is given of the contribution of neuropsychological diagnostic methods and neurolinguistic diagnostic investigations. Through the analysis of errors, neurolinguistic examinations today make it possible to isolate in dyslexic populations at least three groups with clear-cut characteristics, requiring a distinct remedial approach. Neuropsychological investigations, and in particular their cross-matching with radiological neuro-imaging methods, serve to evidence the specificity of the cerebral organization of dyslexics.


Spoken and multimodal dialogue systems start to use listener vocalizations for more natural interaction. In a unit selection framework, using a finite set of recorded listener vocalizations, synthesis quality is high but the acoustic variability is limited. As a result, many combinations of segmental form and intended meaning cannot be synthesized. This paper presents an algorithm in the unit selection domain for increasing the range of vocalizations that can be synthesized with a given set of recordings. We investigate whether the approach makes the synthesized vocalizations convey a meaning closer to the intended meaning, using a pairwise comparison perception test. The results partially confirm the hypothesis, indicating that in many cases, the algorithm makes available more appropriate alternatives to the available set of recorded listener vocalizations.


Abstract The rotation of asymmetric bodies in eccentric Keplerian orbits can be chaotic when there is some overlap of spin-orbit resonances. Here we show that the rotation of two coorbital bodies (two planets orbiting a star or two satellites of a planet) can also be chaotic even for quasi-circular orbits around the central body. When dissipation is present, the rotation period of a body on a nearly circular orbit is believed to always end synchronous with the orbital period. Here we demonstrate that for coorbital bodies in quasi-circular orbits, stable non-synchronous rotation is possible for a wide range of mass ratios and body shapes. We further show that the rotation becomes chaotic when the natural rotational libration frequency, due to the axial asymmetry, is of the same order of magnitude as the orbital libration frequency.


The nuclear power plant has lots of pipes that the fluid of high temperature and high pressure flows. Among the pipe materials used at secondary circuit of the power plant the carbon steels are sensitive to corrosion due to their material properties. In this study, both ultrasonic test and acoustic emission test were used to study the corrosion effect for the carbon steel pipe nondestructively. The carbon steel specimens were in the pipe under 473K temperatures and 10MPa pressure conditions for corrosion processing. According to the degree of corrosion the strength of the specimen was evaluated, and the thickness of the corrosion specimens was also measured by using the ultrasonic wave. The experimental results showed that the attenuation factor was also increased as a depth of corrosion increased. The measured depth of the real corrosion by ultrasonic test shows the good agreement with that by an optical microscope. In order to understand the corrosion effect for the failure mechanism of carbon steel, a failure test on the specimen with various corrosion conditions was performed. An acoustic emission technique was also used to evaluate the degree of damage of corrosion specimen in real time. Acoustic emission technique is proved a useful method for on-line monitoring the microscopic failure mechanism and the damage location for the structures.


A HPLC method has been developed to measure phosphatidylcholine (PC) containing reactive carbonyl functions in the sn-acyl residue in order to study processes in which such reactive carbonyls can be formed due to e.g. oxidative fragmentation. The method has been applied to determine PC-bound carbonyls as 2.4-dinitrophenylhydrazones (DNPH) in plasma of bum patients. Plasma from healthy volunteers served as controls. Additionally, in virro oxidation experiments (A: plasma, buffer diluted; B: plasma + iron-EDTA complex and C: plasma + iron-EDTA complex + H202) have been performed to obtain and to identify 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine derivatizable carbonyl functions in plasma PC. Both, the PC-aldehydes and PC-aldehyde DNPH derivatives were cleavable with phospholipase C. Quantification was based on thin-layer chromatography purified soybean phosphatidylcholine, which was identically oxidized and derivatized as the plasma lipids in vitro.


Phytochemical-mediated modulation of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and other drug transporters may underlie many herb-drug interactions. Serial serum concentration-time profiles of the P-gp substrate, digoxin, were used to determine whether supplementation with milk thistle or black cohosh modified P-gp activity in vivo. Sixteen healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to receive a standardized milk thistle (900 mg daily) or black cohosh (40 mg daily) supplement for 14 days, followed by a 30-day washout period. Subjects were also randomized to receive rifampin (600 mg daily, 7 days) and clarithromycin (1000 mg daily, 7 days) as positive controls for P-gp induction and inhibition, respectively. Digoxin (Lanoxicaps, 0.4 mg) was administered orally before and at the end of each supplementation and control period. Serial digoxin serum concentrations were obtained over 24 h and analyzed by chemiluminescent immunoassay. Comparisons of area under the serum concentration time curves from 0 to 3 h (AUC(0–3)), AUC(0–24), Cmax, apparent oral clearance of digoxin (CL/F), and elimination half-life were used to assess the effects of milk thistle, black cohosh, rifampin, and clarithromycin on digoxin pharmacokinetics. Rifampin produced significant reductions (p < 0.01) in AUC(0–3), AUC(0–24), and Cmax, whereas clarithromycin increased these parameters significantly (p < 0.01). Significant changes in digoxin half-life and CL/F were also observed with clarithromycin. No statistically significant effects on digoxin pharmacokinetics were observed following supplementation with either milk thistle or black cohosh, although digoxin AUC(0–3) and AUC(0–24) approached significance (p = 0.06) following milk thistle administration. When compared with rifampin and clarithromycin, supplementation with these specific formulations of milk thistle or black cohosh did not appear to affect digoxin pharmacokinetics, suggesting that these supplements are not potent modulators of P-gp in vivo.


Excess rainwater in sewer systems creates problems including sewer overflow leading to flooding, inefficient wastewater treatment, overloading of wastewater treatment plants, production of large amounts of sludge, high energy demands and non-replenishment of groundwater. These effects are a problem in areas where rainwater, runoff and sewage are collected in the same system, and are likely to be exacerbated by the effects of climate change and traditional methods of new development. The 'No Rainwater In Sewers' (NORIS) project comprises pilot studies in Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and the UK, all of which attempt in different ways to return the hydrological cycle to a more natural state at a local level by adaptation of existing sewerage systems. The aim of the work presented here is to determine the relative contribution of the chosen techniques to sustainable development. The research illustrates the difficulties faced in urban water of addressing all sustainability principles equally and gives details on the development of a structured framework that will compare the water management options chosen and inform stakeholders of how decisions are made, which is not only necessary under the auspices of the European Water Framework Directive, but is also more rational in terms of sustainable development.


Background Musculoskeletal, dermal and renal systems are the most commonly represented systems in lupus clinical trials. Thus, it is very important to study the time to recovery in each individual system on standard of care treatment in longitudinal studies of lupus patients. The objective of this study was to compare the time to recovery in individual lupus manifestations on standard of care treatment. Materials and methods Consecutive lupus patients with active disease (SLEDAI-2K ≥6 at first visit) who attended the Lupus Clinic between 2000 and 2012 were studied. The analysis was conducted on patients who had: 1) At least 1 of the following 3 systems active by SLEDAI-2K criteria – renal (proteinuria), musculoskeletal (arthritis) or dermal (mucosal ulcers, rash and/or alopecia) and 2) started or increased prednisone therapy. All patients had to have at least one-year follow-up. The analysis was focused on the group of patients who improved their disease activity which is defined as a decrease in SLEDAI-2K by ≥4. Time to recovery in each individual system among these patients was determined using the Kaplan-Meier curves. Results 158 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were further studied. Of the 158 patients and at the last visit (9–12 months), 109 (69%) patients showed overall improvement and they were further studied. In 109 patients, at first visit, musculoskeletal system was present in 48 patients, renal (proteinuria) in 42 patients and dermal in 48 patients. Time to improvement in individual lupus manifestations (Figure 1) -Arthritis 50% of the patients recovered by 3 months (95% CI: 3–6 months) and at 12 months, 45 out of 48 (94%) recovered. 3 patients did not recover by the last visit. -Dermal system 50% of the patients recovered by 6 months (95% CI: 3–12 months) and at 12 months 33 out of 48 (69%) patients recovered. 15 patients did not recover at the last visit. -Renal (proteinuria) 48% improved by 12 months (95% CI: 9–12 months). 22 patients did not recover proteinuria at the last visit. Conclusions The time to recovery of individual lupus manifestations on standard of care therapy varies among organ systems. Arthritis was the fastest to recover followed by the mucocutaneous manifestations and then proteinuria. These facts should be taken into consideration when determining the length of clinical trials with new agents. Abstract CE-18 Figure 1 Time to recovery in individual manifestations of lupus


rupture of the membranes, the median gestational age at delivery was 36.1 weeks (range 34.1–39.1), with a median weight of 2215 gr (range 1750–2850). No single case of brain damage was detected among the survivors, as assessed by both clinical examination and imaging techniques. Conclusion: Although the number of cases is small, our initial results doing cord occlusion by bipolar forceps are comparable with those reported by others.


Choosing the number of mixture components remains an elusive challenge. Model selection criteria can be either overly liberal or conservative and return poorly separated components of limited practical use. We formalize non‐local priors (NLPs) for mixtures and show how they lead to well‐separated components with non‐negligible weight, interpretable as distinct subpopulations. We also propose an estimator for posterior model probabilities under local priors and NLPs, showing that Bayes factors are ratios of posterior‐to‐prior empty cluster probabilities. The estimator is widely applicable and helps to set thresholds to drop unoccupied components in overfitted mixtures. We suggest default prior parameters based on multimodality for normal–T‐mixtures and minimal informativeness for categorical outcomes. We characterize theoretically the NLP‐induced sparsity, derive tractable expressions and algorithms. We fully develop normal, binomial and product binomial mixtures but the theory, computation and principles hold more generally. We observed a serious lack of sensitivity of the Bayesian information criterion, insufficient parsimony of the Akaike information criterion and a local prior, and a mixed behaviour of the singular Bayesian information criterion. We also considered overfitted mixtures; their performance was competitive but depended on tuning parameters. Under our default prior elicitation NLPs offered a good compromise between sparsity and power to detect meaningfully separated components.


Background & objectives: Pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 virus emerged in 2009 and caused pandemic with high morbidity and mortality in India and worldwide. The number of H1N1-positive cases varied in different years in Rajasthan. The objective of the study was to present the epidemiological profile of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 virus cases in Rajasthan from January to March 2015. Methods: A retrospective descriptive, record-based analysis of suspected and confirmed cases of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 virus infection in Rajasthan, India, from January to March 2015 was performed. Testing was done as per the Centers for Disease Control guidelines at nine laboratories approved by the Government of Rajasthan. Data were analyzed in terms of demographic characteristics, clinical presentation and outcome. Results: Among 18,187 tested cases, 6203 (34.10%) were positive. Death occurred in 378 cases, with six per cent case fatality rate. Maximum number of cases (n=2801) and deaths (n=101) were from Jaipur zone. The highest number of cases, 47.60 per cent (2953/6203) and deaths, 52.11 per cent (197/378) were in the age group of 26-50 yr; 52.64 per cent (199/378) of deaths occurred in females. The highest number (63.5%) of deaths was from urban areas. Associated risk factors were observed in 59.44 per cent of the death cases, pregnancy being the predominant predisposing factor. In 61.92 per cent of patients, death occurred within three days of hospitalization. Interpretation & conclusions: H1N1 epidemic caused high morbidity and mortality in early 2015, particularly in the younger and middle-aged population and pregnant women in Rajasthan State of India. The study highlights the regular surveillance of influenza like illness, early diagnosis and timely initiation of therapy in suspected cases.


Four implementations of MOSFET-Only ΣΔ modulators for audio applications are presented using different topologies of depletion-mode MOS-capacitors. The 2nd-order fully-differential modulators are realized in Switched-Opamp technique with DC level shift. Implementation is performed in a standard 0.18µm digital n-well CMOS process without using extra process options to provide linear capacitors. The SNDRs of the different modulators are within the range of 62dB to 67dB whereas SNR of 69dB and a dynamic range of 73dB is obtained, respectively. The modulators are operated at 16kHz signal bandwidth and consume approximately 200µW from a single 0.9V power supply.


The paper review series of circuits operating as trapezoidal waveform generators. All presented circuits share same rule of operation but offer different possibilities of their functionality enhancements. Enhanced versions provide ability to control voltage-range and differ slew-rates of rising and falling edges of output voltage waveform. Schematics, way of operation, and simulation results are presented.


The examination was applied to sampling of 17 patients with stable implants after 18-36 months after endoprosthesis replacement of knee joint and to sampling of 17 patients with developed within this time-frame aseptic instability of endoprosthesis within the same time-frame. The typing of lymphocytes of peripheral blood was implemented using laser flow cytometry. The detection of immunoglobulins, cytokines, circulating immune complexes was made applying the technique of enzymoimmunoassay. In case of development of aseptic instability the signs testifying moderate activation of immune system and starting dysfunction of monocyte macrophage component of immune system. At that, IL-6, TNFa, CD14+HLA-DR provided the most complete information on the side of diagnostic of developing aseptic instability of joint.


Twenty-six tornado victims were interviewed to determine the mental health consequences of a natural disaster. The results, based on retrospective accounts indicated that approximately three-fourths of the victims suffered increased psychological discomfort of a subjective nature five months later. This discomfort was characterized by anxiety, nervousness, and mild somatic complaints. Disruptions in interpersonal relationships among family members were less frequently reported. The disaster did not produce severe emotional impairment and few of the victims felt the need for professional mental health assistance.


Much of the existing research examining the acquisition of English language skills amongst refugees and other newly arrived migrants, both in Australia and internationally, assumes a relatively straightforward relationship between English language proficiency and inclusion within the broader community. This article presents contrary findings from a study of two South Australian primary schools with New Arrivals Programmes (NAPs). By examining data from both a questionnaire administered to teachers and ethnographic observations of children at play in the school yard, the findings presented here suggest that students in NAPs will be differentially invested in learning English according to the degree of exclusion they experience in the school environment and the impact this has upon their perception of the value of learning English as a mode of engagement. In response, the article calls for an approach to education that is situated in global contexts of colonisation and power relations, and where the terms for inclusion of NAP students are mutually negotiated, rather than predetermined.


From the industrial revolution to the emergence of the so-called knowledge economy, history has shown that economic development has taken place unevenly across regions. National economies are a complex mix of varying types of geographical configurations which in turn involve varying economic systems, infrastructure, and human capital. In this context recent literature in regional growth and development has highlighted how crucial it is to analyse socio-economic phenomena through the lens of spatial concepts such as density, distance, neighbourhood, and agglomeration. This dissertation emphasizes this fact in three interrelated studies that have analyzed the spatial aspects of income and human capital inequalities in Pakistan.

The first study investigates the evolution and trend of earnings income distribution in Pakistan between 1993 and 2006—a period characterised by macroeconomic reforms and a decent average GDP growth rate. Specifically, it shows the extent to which changes in the returns to human capital have contributed towards changes in earnings inequality across Pakistan. The second study utilizes exploratory spatial data techniques to analyze the extent of spatial clustering of economic inequalities, growth and development across Pakistani districts between 1998 and 2006. The final study then investigates for the first time income convergence across Pakistani districts between 1998 and 2005 using spatial and non spatial econometric techniques.

The main empirical findings from the first study reveal that the returns to low levels of education have declined while the returns to higher education levels have increased. Moreover these returns are much higher for females as compared to males. It has also been shown that earnings inequality has consistently remained higher within provinces as compared to inequality between them. Finally this study demonstrates that females in general and rural females in particular are most sensitive to policies that can affect earnings inequality and labour market outcomes in Pakistan. The findings from the second study demonstrate how neighbouring districts share each other's development levels, confirming that economic geography does matter for regional inequalities, growth, and development across Pakistan. Finally, the convergence analysis carried out in the third study, demonstrates that conditional convergence may be observed across Pakistan once spatial effects have been taken into account.

In summary, this dissertation contributes to the literature and policy debate on economic inequalities and convergence in developing economies and in particular to district level research in Pakistan, by applying counter factual regression analysis and spatial econometric techniques for the first time to Pakistani data.


The Tres Esquinas Member of the La Luna Formation is a glauconite-rich phosphorite unit associated with changes that took place in depositional environments in the Maracaibo Basin at the end of the Late Cretaceous. The unit marks the end of La Luna Formation sedimentary cycle. This paper presents results of petrographic studies of samples from two sections, one outcrop (Rı́o Guaruries), and one well core (Perijá), and from seismic profiles across the Perijá and Colón areas in the Maracaibo Basin. The Tres Esquinas Member is three meters thick in both locations. In the Rı́o Guaruries outcrop, it contains an abundant foraminiferal fauna in addition to common allochemical material. Perijá core samples contain voluminous carbonate matrix, scarce allochemical materials, rare foraminifera, and poor definition of mineral facies, which may reflect higher-energy conditions on the sea floor. The deposition of the Tres Esquinas Member resulted from altered sea-floor topography during an episode of intense tectonic activity in the eastern part of the Maracaibo Basin. The modified shelf configuration ended anoxic conditions on the sea floor and led to increased erosion characteristic of the Tres Esquinas Member.


Accurate environment representation is one of the key challenges in autonomous ground vehicle navigation in unstructured environments. We propose a real-time optimization-based approach to terrain modeling and path planning in off-road and rough environments. Our method uses an irregular, hierarchical, graph-like environment model. A space-dividing tree is used to define a compact data structure capturing vertex positions and establishing connectivity. The same unique underlying data structure is used for both terrain modeling and path planning without memory reallocation. Local plans are generated by graph search algorithms and are continuously regenerated for on-the-fly obstacle avoidance inside the scope of the local terrain map. We show that implementing a hierarchical model over a regular space division reduces graph edge expansions by up to 84%. We illustrate the applicability of the method through experiments with an unmanned ground vehicle in both structured and unstructured environments.


The complexity of today's business world is translated into complexity of the company's organization design (Galbraith, 2002). Organizations are forced to quickly adapt to emerging complexity if they want to survive. The change is addressing all areas of business, especially questioning organizational effectiveness and trying to find optimal solutions for doing business. In accordance with requirements, competitive trends are pushing executives to rethink traditional design configurations. Factors such as increased competition in cost, quality and service, and technical change have forced companies not only to seek out new ways of doing old tasks, but also new ways of organizing either old or new tasks (Cross, 1990). Such focus on the flow of work within organizations, but as well as between them, is emphasizing process orientation as a new management paradigm. Inefficiencies of the two most commonly present structures – functional and divisional, in addition to emerging business trends, place the emphasis on a process-based organization as one of the possible solutions. The process-based organization is lead by the process paradigm, which is focused on the horizontal view of business activities and alignment of organizational systems towards business processes. Regardless of a large interest on business processes, existing organization design theory offers only general guidelines for process-based organizations or more precisely, a process-based organization design model. Consequently, the purpose of the paper is to demystify process-based organization design model. By clearly distinguishing between different levels of process orientation, and by addressing characteristics of the chosen model the paper will lead to better understanding of this way of organizing. Eventually, an operationalized model of process-based organization is developed. Furthermore, the paper elaborates on differences between process-based and other organizational structures and philosophies (e.g. functional, product, matrix, project, team-based). Besides structural elements, which will be in the primary focus, the paper will discuss the alignment of all other important organization design elements for process environment (e.g., management style, reward systems, performance metrics, people practices, organizational culture, etc.). There would be proposed necessary adjustments of organizational elements which should be aligned with the process-based structural solution. In such way, some of the blind spots of process-based organization design model would be revealed, providing practical implications for its implementation and ultimately, offering solution for rising business complexity.


Background: Edible plants belonging to the Zingiberaceae family display various antioxidative properties and widely used as folklore medicines. Three edible plants in Zingiberaceae family; namely Boesenbergia rotunda, Phaeomeria imperialis and Zingiber officinale were selected for secondary metabolites extraction using methanol. All crude extracts were investigated to evaluate their phenolics and flavonoids contents and further compare their antioxidant properties. Methods: Total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were evaluated using Folin-Ciocalteu method and Aluminium Complexation Reaction respectively. Conventional DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl), revolutionary CUPRAC (cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity) and cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) in vitro assays were employed to evaluate the antioxidant activities of methanolic plant extracts for the first time. Results: DPPH and CUPRAC antioxidant assays resulted in similar trend to total flavonoid content in the order Z. officinale >P. imperialis>B. rotunda where as P. imperialis revealed highest phenols content and displayed highest CAA. Conclusion: Methanolic extract of Z. officinale showed highest free radical scavenging ability and hence flavonoids present may potentially act as natural source of antioxidant.


In meiosis, accumulation of recombination intermediates or defects in chromosome synapsis trigger checkpoint-mediated arrest in prophase I. Such 'checkpoints' are important surveillance mechanisms that ensure temporal dependence of cell cycle events. The budding yeast Polo-like kinase, Cdc5, has been identified as a key regulator of the meiosis I chromosome segregation pattern. Here we have analysed the role of Cdc5 in the recombination checkpoint and observed that Polo-like kinase is not required for checkpoint activation in yeast meiosis. Surprisingly, depletion of CDC5 in the Drad17 checkpoint-defective background resulted in nuclear fragmentation to levels even higher than that observed inDdmc1 Drad17 cells that bypass the checkpoint arrest despite accumulating DNA double-strand breaks. The spindle morphology of Cdc5-depleted cells included short, thick metaphase I spindles in mononucleate cells and disassembled spindles in binucleate and tetranucleate cells, although this phenotype does not appear to be the cause of the nuclear fragmentation. An exaggeration of chromosome synapsis defects occurred in Cdc5-depleted Drad17 cells and may contribute to the nuclear fragmentation phenotype. The analysis also uncovered a role for Cdc5 in maintaining spindle integrity in Ddmc1 Drad17 cells. Further analysis confirmed that adaptation to DNA damage does occur in meiosis and that CDC5 is required for this process. The cdc5-ad mutation that renders cells unable to adapt to DNA damage in mitosis did not affect checkpoint adaptation in meiosis, indicating that the mechanisms of checkpoint adaptation in mitosis and meiosis are not fully conserved.


Background Benchmarking is a process designed to discover best practise through a comparison of various competing methods. The use of drug benchmarking can identify problems in health team practise, yield a clearer understanding of competitor hospitals and aid in establishing attainable goals. Purpose To identify differences in drug expenditure between two hospitals. Materials and Methods Two hospitals with the same number of occupied beds, size and medicines procurement systems were evaluated for drug expenditure. Analysis included financial measurements: expenditure per hospitalisation day, per patient, cost grading (Pareto), drug inflation index and cost analysis by a time & motion study. Clinical measurements used policies of checking the suitability of drug use and antimicrobial streamlining programmes. Results Hospital A' drug expenses (+11.5%) and cost/patient (+35%) were higher than in hospital B', the main differences being attributed to the use of infusions and antibiotics. A comparison between IV infusions showed a higher expenditure in hospital A' (48%) compared to B'; differences were attributed to the practise models of drug preparation and administration. In hospital A' all drugs were diluted in a minibag under aseptic conditions, while in hospital B', nurses diluted the drug on the wards and administered it through a buretrol device. A cost analysis time & motion study was performed to find out the cost of each practise model; 11.3 Euro/unit in hospital A' versus 13 Euro in hospital B'. Hospital A' used PTZ' treatment based on a streaming system & antibiogram assistance, while in B', use was according to physician approval and a system of switching. Conclusions This survey has several limitations: the difficulty of accurately reflecting prescribing practises, equipment and patient case mix. Nevertheless, the benchmarking exercise provided valuable data, which can be used to target key areas for cost control and performance. No conflict of interest.


The present paper explores the relationship between corporations' ability to generate free cash, the lopsided current account, and recent speculation in stocks and housing. It argues that some portion of recently generated free cash is related to the outsourcing of production. Over the last two decades, foreign saving, consequent on the lopsided U.S. current account could not be absorbed by a corporate world beset by its own plethora of saving. Consequently, excess saving, both domestically grown and imported flowed toward speculative avenues — in the 1990s in stocks and more recently in housing.


The recognition of Korean characters by a syntactic method is considered. Korean characters are composed of phonetic symbols in two dimensions and contain very little redundancy. In addition, the phonetic symbols in each character are different in shape and number depending on how they are composed. Thus, attribute information is important. A Korean character recognition algorithm based on an attribute-dependent programmed grammar is presented. The preprocessing and primitive extraction algorithm is also described. The algorithm was implemented and tested with more than 9600 Korean characters in pages randomly selected from children's story books. The algorithm based on the attribute-dependent programmed grammar recognized characters reasonably quickly, with more than 95.1% accuracy. >


This paper proposes an energy-efficient deep inmemory architecture for NAND flash (DIMA-F) to perform machine learning and inference algorithms on NAND flash memory. Algorithms for data analytics, inference, and decision-making require processing of large data volumes and are hence limited by data access costs. DIMA-F achieves energy savings and throughput improvement for such algorithms by reading and processing data in the analog domain at the periphery of NAND flash memory. This paper also provides behavioral models of DIMA-F that can be used for analysis and large scale system simulations in presence of circuit non-idealities and variations. DIMA-F is studied in the context of linear support vector machines and knearest neighbor for face detection and recognition, respectively. An estimated 8×-to-23× reduction in energy and 9×-to-15× improvement in throughput resulting in EDP gains up to 345× over the conventional NAND flash architecture incorporating an external digital ASIC for computation.