We study the transport properties of a two-dimensional electron system with an essential spin-orbit interaction under topological phase transition due to changing in-plane magnetic field. We have analyzed the contribution of diagonal and off-diagonal components of density matrix with respect to number of spin zone in the high-frequency conductivity. Analytical formulas for the conductivity tensor have been obtained. A numerical analysis giving full enough representation about the dependence of the conductivity on frequency and magnetic field is presented. We have shown that the contribution of the off-diagonal elements of density matrix is the greater than the higher the frequency of the alternating electromagnetic field. It has been established that for magnetic field value at which the minimum electron energy of upper spin zone exceeds the Fermi energy, the conductivity as a function of magnetic field change in discrete step.


Deep dent defects on the automobile parts produced by hot die forging have become problems because the dents were disadvantageous to the strength of these parts. The dents may have been probably caused by scales of hot billets. The behaviour of these thick scales in hot die forging was experimentally analyzed in this paper. The dents gradually grew bigger and changed the shapes every forging shot before the scales periodically transferred to the workpiece. The deep dent defects frequently formed at the part of the workpiece with large plastic deformation. Additionally, it was found the scales consisted of the oxide/non-oxide layers derived from the hot billet materials by microscope observation and electron probe micro analysis. It was estimated that the thicker scales were formed by layered pick-up and adhesion under severe tribological conditions. Adjusting preform shape and controlling lubrication were proposed to decrease the defects.


To discuss the validity of the prediction method described in our first report, five kinds of bituminous coals have been burned in two furnaces for a wide range of furnace temperatures and air-fuel equivalence ratios. Measured unburned carbon content in flyash is in good agreement with the predicted one in case of four coals and in the range of unburned carbon contents above 1%, verifying the validity of the prediction method.


As the development of modern biotechnology, biosafety is becoming a global hotspot and focus. As an issue concerning both science and administration, a rational law system, an effective administrative system, science research and popularization, and international collaboration are essential.


The applicants, Sergiu Scripnic andMaia Scripnic, are twoMoldovan nationals whowere born in 1974 and 1977, respectively. They are husband and wife and live in Ciorescu (Republic of Moldova). The case concerned an alleged case of medical negligence resulting in the death of a new-born child. In 2003, Maia Scripnic was admitted to the maternity ward of a hospital in Chişinău. There she gave birth to a baby girl who died the day after the birth. The couple filed a complaint the same year, asking the prosecutor's office to establish the criminal responsibility of those allegedly involved in their daughter's death. In 2009, a doctor was indicted. Then, in the same year, a court discontinued the criminal proceedings against this doctor because his criminal liability had become time-barred. This judgment became final. In 2010, the applicants also brought a civil action for damages against the doctor in question and the hospital. In 2011, a court partly upheld their action, awarding them approximately EUR 3,700 for non-pecuniary damage and for costs and expenses. In 2012, the Court of Appeal awarded them, in addition, a sum corresponding to the costs of the child's burial and upheld the rest of the firstinstance judgment. In 2013, the Supreme Court of Justice upheld this ruling. Relying in substance on Article 2 (right to life) of the European Convention, the applicants alleged that they had not obtained appropriate relief in relation to their daughter's death, which they claim had been caused by medical negligence.


An intelligent data acquisition system for the characterization of power NMOS transistors has been developed. The system uses a pulsed method with adaptive duty cycle. The temperature is empirically determined by using the transistor under test as a thermometer. An accurate database can be obtained for modeling or parameter-extraction purposes. Rules for the rejection of anomalous data due to thermal or electrical transitions have been included in the software. A criterion based on the first and second derivatives has shown that the acquired database quality is better when these rules are used. This criterion is independent of the model considered and the parameter-extraction algorithm used. >


The technological process and the basic construction of a encircling weld lathe for boiler sootblower's pipe are described in this paper.An electrical control system and software system based on the programmable logic controller(PLC)was designed.The lathe was manufactured by integrating the machine system,electrical system,pneumatic device and water cooling system.PLC is the core of the entire control system,which control the peripheral equipment exactly.The peripheral equipment include arc voltage controller,weld power supply,wire feeder controller,electromotor and electromagnetic valve.The experiments show that,the weld quality is highly improved,physical labor of the welder is greatly decreased,when using this equipment.


This paper examines two questions. The first is what it would mean for schools to be communities. This question is pursued by examining four metaphors for community: families, congregations, guilds, and democratic polities. Three models of school communities are then sketched. The second question is whether schools that are communities are inherently illiberal. The paper distinguishes between a liberal interpretation of schools as communities, where schools are viewed as limited-purpose free associations, and a communitarian interpretation where community and polity are not adequately distinguished. I argue that, within a framework of liberal pluralism, schools can be communities without being illiberal.


The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of pozzolana fines and oil shale ash on the stripping of bituminous mixtures made of asphalt cement and different types of aggregates. Pozzolana fines and oil shale ash were added separately to the asphalt mixtures at five levels, ranging from 0% to 20% by volume of optimum asphalt content. The effectiveness of the additives was examined using the Texas freeze-thaw pedestal test. The treatment with pozzolana flues was found to be more efficient than the treatment with oil shale ash. Furthermore, the test results indicated that an addition of up to 15% ofpozzolana fines improved the resistance of all mixtures of stripping, except those containing crushed chert aggregate.


[1] The rip current field resulting from the transformation of surface gravity waves over offshore submarine canyons is studied. Employing a wave transformation model and a wave-induced circulation model over observed bathymetry we find that wave height variations associated with undulations in the canyon contours cause rip current circulation cells with alongshore spacing of O(100m) even though the nearshore bathymetry displays no variations at these length scales. Further, the predicted rips correspond to observed rip currents during the Nearshore Canyon Experiment (NCEX). Motivated by these results we study the relationship between O(100 m) scale variations in offshore bathymetric contours and the resulting rip current field in the nearshore. To isolate the roles of possible bathymetric features, we construct a series of idealized case studies that include site characteristics found at NCEX that are conducive of rip current development, such as a curved shoreline, an offshore submarine canyon and undulations in the canyon contours. Our results show that the first two components are unable to produce the observed short-scale circulation systems, while wave refraction over undulations in the canyon walls at length scales of O(100 m) provides a sufficient disturbance to generate alongshore wave height variations that drive multiple rip currents for a variety of incident wave conditions. Rips are not generated when the wave period is short, or when the angle of incidence is large. Analysis of the alongshore momentum balances further demonstrates that the rip current locations are also strongly influenced by inertial effects. Hence, nonlinear processes are important within the rip current circulation cell and we find that nonlinear advective acceleration terms balance a large portion of the driving alongshore gradient in the mean water surface elevation in the vicinity of the rip currents with bottom friction accounting for the remainder. Away from the rips, the balance is between the wave forcing and the pressure gradient outside the surf zone and wave forcing and bottom friction inside the surf zone, as expected.


1. A blade for a turbomachine, comprising an aerodynamic portion which extends in the longitudinal direction for a certain length and having a first end and a second end, said airfoil portion bounded on each side aerodynamic surface and an inner cavity extending completely along the entire length of said sides and bounded by curved poverhnostyu.2. A blade according to Claim. 1 which is a stator blade of the steam turbine and comprises a root portion, the covering part and the aerodynamic portion, the airfoil portion extending in the longitudinal direction for a certain length and having a first end and a second end wherein the first end is positioned adjacent the root portion and a second end positioned adjacent the cover portion, wherein the airfoil portion bounded on each side aerodynamic surface and an inner cavity extending completely along the entire lengths of said s and bounded laterally curved poverhnostyu.3. A blade according to Claim. 1, in which the distance between the curved surfaces of the airfoil and is variable at any point aerodynamic chasti.4. A blade according to Claim. 1, wherein the first end between the aerodynamic surface and the curved surface has a first distance and the second end between the airfoil and the curved surface has a second distance, wherein the first and / or second distance are neizmennymi.5. A blade according to claim. 2, wherein the root portion and airfoil portion covering portion are integrally formed, and the curved surface also extends through the root portion and a coating chast.6. A blade according to claim. 2, in


Static contrast in LCDs can be improved by using local dimming backlight techniques, but it is still orders of magnitude lower than that of OLED. However, glare in the human eye limits the visible contrast and suggests that a very high contrast is not required. In this paper we estimate how much contrast is actually required in a display and compare that with today's OLEDs and local dimming LCDs.


Results are presented of an investigation of the behavior in a vacuum of steel surfaces, taken over a wide range of carbon concentration, depending on the composition and rate of cooling. The behavior of preeutectic white iron surfaces wag also studied on crystallization, cooling, and isothermal holding. It is dhown that in all cases of thermal treatment in a vacuum the process of graphite formation on the surface proceeds at a congiderably greater rate than in the golid matrix. On these grounds, it is inferred that numerous microscopic defects (pores, fissureg, etc.) play a great part in the formation of graphitization centers. (tr-auth)


Purpose
Over past decades, the fossil fuel reserves in the world have been decreasing at an alarming rate and a lack of crude oil is expected in the early decades of this century. Also, the eco-neutral pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrigen (NOx) and unburnt hydrocarbons (UHC) are also increasing. This calls for innovative research in non-conventional fuels to replace fossil fuels. Hydrogen is one such fuel which has an exceptional combustion property and appears to be proving itself as the best transportation fuel of the future. On the other hand, compressed natural gas(CNG) has already been credited as a remarkable fuel for its better emission characteristics and has been implemented as a transportation fuel in metros. Therefore, the use of hydrogen blended with natural gas seems to be a viable alternative to pure fossil fuels because of the expected reduction of the total pollutants and increase of efficiency. This paper aims to investigate this issue.

Design/methodology/approach
In the present experimental investigation, 10 and 20 per cent of hydrogen–CNG mixture(HCNG) by mass of fuel is inducted into the combustion chamber in conjunction with air in HCNG–diesel dual fuel mode. The variation in injection opening pressure is assessed to optimize the performance and emission characteristics.

Findings
Experiments were conducted at three different injection opening pressures, i.e. 200, 220 and 240 bar, at full-load condition and the performance characteristics were calculated. The effect of injection operating pressure(IOP) on emissions were measured and compared with pure diesel mode.

Originality/value
Brake thermal efficiency (BTE) was increased by 1.2 per cent at 220 bar. Minimum BSFC of 0.2302 kg/kWh, 0.2114 kg/kWh was noticed for 220 bar with a changing ratio of 20 per cent of HCNG. It was noticed that CO and UHC decreased with variation in IOP and HCNG content in the blend. However, there was an increase in NOx emissions.


Magnetic position sensing device, comprising: - a magnet (4) which generates a magnetic field; - a first and a second magneto-electric conversion element (1A, 1B), each on a first virtual plane (72) are provided and have a resistance value that varies in response to a change in the magnetic field, the magnetic by movement of a moving caused body (20); - a detection circuit (30) which detects the movement of the moving magnetic body (20) on the basis of the change in the resistance value of the respective first and second magneto-electric conversion element (1A, 1B); and - a flow guide (5, 105, 106, 107, 108), which is made of a magnetic material and between the magnet (4) and the first and second magneto-electric conversion element (1A, 1B) is disposed, wherein the flow guide comprises: - a first and a second projection (9B, 9A) in a direction parallel to the first virtual plane (72), first direction are spaced from each other, wherein the first and second projections respectively in the direction of the first virtual plane (72 ) protrude, and a specific area (MP), which, 9A) is provided between and spaced from the first projection and the second projection (9B, wherein the first magneto-electric conversion element (1A), compared with the second magneto-electric conversion element (1B) closer to the specific area (MP) is provided, ...


Questions included in the text will reflect the type of questions on the actual exam, with the majority of questions in the form of clinical vignettes. The answer section of the book features eye-catching callouts that make it easy to identify the correct answer. Each answer will also identify which specialty and subspecialty areas are being tested, so students can determine which areas they need to study.


Men who took high-dose vitamin D prior to radical prostatectomy had significant reductions in prostate levels of the proliferation marker Ki-67 and increased expression of microRNAs associated with tumor suppression, according to a recent study from Canadian and U.S. researchers.


ABSTRACT Introduction: Respiratory drug delivery is a surprisingly complex process with a number of physical and biological challenges. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a scientific simulation technique that is capable of providing spatially and temporally resolved predictions of many aspects related to respiratory drug delivery from initial aerosol formation through respiratory cellular drug absorption. Areas covered: This review article focuses on CFD-based deposition modeling applied to pharmaceutical aerosols. Areas covered include the development of new complete-airway CFD deposition models and the application of these models to develop a next-generation of respiratory drug delivery strategies. Expert opinion: Complete-airway deposition modeling is a valuable research tool that can improve our understanding of pharmaceutical aerosol delivery and is already supporting medical hypotheses, such as the expected under-treatment of the small airways in asthma. These complete-airway models are also being used to advance next-generation aerosol delivery strategies, like controlled condensational growth. We envision future applications of CFD deposition modeling to reduce the need for human subject testing in developing new devices and formulations, to help establish bioequivalence for the accelerated approval of generic inhalers, and to provide valuable new insights related to drug dissolution and clearance leading to microdosimetry maps of drug absorption.


Objecive To explore the indication and curative effect of laparoscopic drainage for liver abscess.Methods The data from 101 patients with liver abscess after surgical manipulation were analyzed retrospectively,and the outcome of laparoscopic drainage were compared with those of percutaneous transhepatic drainage(PATD) and laparoscopic surgical drainage(LSD).Results Among 101 patients with liver abscess,46 patients were treated with sonography or computerized tomography-guided PATD 43 patients with LSD and 12 patients with laparoscopic drainage.Compared with LSD,the operation time [(105±17)min vs(137±27)min] was shorter and hospitalization expense(1.4±0.3 vs 1.8±0.6 ten thousands yuan) was less,and the hospital stay period was the shortest among those in three treating groups [(9.3±2.1)d vs(15.1±4.4)d and(16.5±4.8)d](P0.05).Moreover,the postoperative complication rates and the postoperative recurrence in the laparoscopic drainage group were naught.It was significantly lower than those in PATD group(28.3% and 15.2%) and LSD group(32.6% and 4.7%)(P0.01).Whereas,there was no operative death case in laparoscopic drainage group,which was less than those in PATD(4.3%) and LSD(7.0%) group,but had no statistic difference.Conclusions Laparoscopic drainage is one of efficient surgical alternatives for treatment of liver abscess.


The purpose of this research is to analyze the increase in product selling value through product variation, brand image, and promotion. This research uses explanatory research, with a quantitative approach. A sample of 96 people using the Slovin formula. The method of analysis in this study uses multiple linear regression methods with statistical software SPSS 20. The results show that product variations, brand image, and promotion partially and significantly influence the increase in the value of product sales.


The species and staining solution preparation of vegetable dyestuff were introduced.And the new research development of source,fiber dyeing and mordant were introduced.


The Airports Commission requested ITF/SEO to provide technical assistance with analysing responses that pertain to the previous work undertaken by the ITF/SEO. This report assesses the submissions by the stakeholders in relation to competition impacts and compares them with the ITF/SEO results and the literature. Specifically, we review the following studies: 1. InterVISTAS (2014). The Importance of Airport Competition on Air Fares Paid by Consumers. November 2014 2. Frontier Economics (2014). Impact of airport expansion options on competition and choice. A report prepared for Heathrow Airport Ltd, April 2014. 3. Gatwick Airport Ltd. (2015). Supporting Traffic & competition analysis. 4. British Airways (2015). British Airways response to the Airports Commission Public Consultation on new runway capacity in the South East. 3 February 2015. 5. CAA (2015). CAA response to the Airports Commission consultation: increasing the UK's long-term capacity. 6. CBI (2015). Boosting capacity where it matters most- the nub is the hub. The CBI's position on future aviation capacity. 7. Virgin Atlantic (2015). Virgin Atlantic Response: Airports commission final consultation on shortlisted options for new capacity. 8. EasyJet (2015). EasyJet response to the Airports Commission consultation. 9. Heathrow Airport Main submission. The note is focused on discussing the competition impact assessments as requested by the Airports Commission. We do not consider the likelihood of airline responses and Airports Commission scenarios. The focus of our review will be on the first two studies, with a more concise review of the other submission, as far as relevant.


I would like to share with you some of my thoughts about economic forecasts and monetary policy. I will begin with some comments about the economy's recent performance and the outlook for 2006. Next, I will explain why making sound policy decisions requires me to think about both the demand and supply sides of the economy. Finally, I will describe how the stories behind the forecasts directly relate to the way I think about the appropriate course for monetary policy.


This study was carried out to investigate interaction between mushroom mycelium and microor- ganisms in cotton waste media for the shelf cultivation of oyster mushroom. Two oyster mushroom farms was selected for this experiment. One was good mushroom farm (farmhouse I) and the other failed mushroom farm (farmhouse II). In farmhouse I, the inhibition microorganisms were higher toward the end of growth stage than the early stage, but the result of farmhouse II was opposite. Effects of the mycelium growth on plate culture showed same results on mushrooms as the earlier one. And the mycelium growth was influenced by secretory materials of microorganisms. Among of the isolates, Only few microorganism had inhibitory effects on either P. tolaasii or T. harzianum causing the disease of oyster mushrooms. But more microorganisms had inhibition effects on P. agarici.


From 1987 to 1991, in Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil, the effects of production systems on triticale crop were assessed at the Centro Nacional de Pesquisa de Trigo. Five systems for triticale were studied: system I (triticale/soybean), system II (triticale/soybean and black oats/soybean, from 1987 to 1989, and triticale/soybean and white oats/soybean, from 1990 to 1991), system III (triticale/soybean and common vetch/corn), system IV (triticale/soybean, black oats/soybean and common vetch/corn, from 1987 to 1989, and triticale/soybean, common vetch/corn and white oats/soybean, from 1990 to 1991), and system V (triticale/soybean, triticale/soybean, black oats/soybean and common vetch/corn, from 1987 to 1989, and triticale/soybean, triticale/soybean, common vetch/corn and white oats/soybean, from 1990 to 1991). An experimental design of blocks at random with three replications and plots with 24 m2 was used. Economic analysis over that period is presented in this paper. Over the period in which the climatic conditions were normal, system III was the best alternative to be offered to farmers from profitability standpoint. When climatic conditions were adverse, system II showed higher economic return, as compared to the remaining systems studied.


We specify the range to which perturbations penetrate a planetesimal system. Such perturbations can originate from massive planets or from encounters with other stars. The latter can have an origin in the star cluster in which the planetary system was born, or from random encounters once the planetary system has escaped its parental cluster. The probability of a random encounter, either in a star cluster or in the Galactic field depends on the local stellar density, the velocity dispersion and the time spend in that environment. By adopting order of magnitude estimates, we argue that the majority of planetary systems born in open clusters will have a Parking zone, in which planetesimals are affected by encounters in their parental star cluster but remain unperturbed after the star has left the cluster. Objects found in this range of semimajor axis and eccentricity preserve the memory of the encounter that last affected their orbits, and they can therefore be used to reconstruct this encounter. Planetary systems born in a denser environment, such as in a globular cluster are unlikely to have a Parking zone. We further argue that some planetary systems may have a Frozen zone, in which orbits are not affected either by the more inner massive planets or by external influences. Objects discovered in this zone will have preserved information about their formation in their orbital parameters.


This paper is an attempt, based on many years of following the International Festival of Ethnological Film, organized by the Ethnographic Museum in Belgrade, to provide insight into the way in which it has so far fulfilled its purpose, while at the same time experiencing tumultuous, occasionally even tragic events and processes. The main question concerns the way in which "interesting times" have left their mark on and shaped the world of human experience of people who have lived through them, thus also film production and festival practice. The phrase "interesting times" is used in the sense in which it was used by the historian Eric Hobsbawm, who used it as a label for "the most extraordinary and terrible century in human history".

Two elements are of prime importance in the paper – the assumption that "interesting times" can exist simultaneously with, and can cause or heighten emotional and creative tension, and also the fact that the limited possibilities that the resulting states of mind and initiatives can be fulfilled through the usual channels, such as political ones, can lead to attempts to satisfy them through art or cultural forms. Film production and festival activities can, under certain circumstances, offer alternative channels for expressing moods and content that arise or are enhanced during "interesting times".

On the one hand, the framework for analysis will provide reflections on the nature and the possible social roles of film festivals, including festivals of documentary and ethnographic films. Essentially, it will be necessary to consider the questions of the types of experiences provided by the Festival to its participants and attendees, the cinematic experiences it offers, and the specific aims and ideologies advocated as part of it. On the other hand, relying on valuable testimony in the form of the Festival Catalogue, words and images which testify to the achievements of the Festival will be identified.

At the very beginning, in the turbulent times when political orders were overthrown, along with legal and ethical frameworks, it seemed that the Festival had managed to be conceptually ahead of its time. It was a dream come true and a model for many, a place where "miracles" happened. After a number of years, its long history temporarily weakened the Festival's creative potential. The times became somewhat less interesting, slightly dull even, and the Festival followed suit. And yet through all the changes, the Festival has not ceased to be a place where people meet and learn; a place where images inspire thoughts, and thoughts seek visual means of expression; a place where, by meeting Others, we learn something about ourselves as well, but also a place where by seeking to find a way to represent ourselves, we enrich Others.


This paper is focus on two-Pass Deep Drawing Forming of conical axisymmetric parts, study on the finite element simulation and test of multi-Pass deep drawing part. It carry on the finite element analysis and calculation using the ANSYS/LS-DYNA software platform, analyzing the simulation results such as stress , strain distribution and formability by post-processing LSPOST software. It was done multi-Pass deep drawing test using a set of combined type mould. Based on the multi-Pass forming test by using a set of combined type mould, comparison of simulation and test data can be obtained through the forming limit diagram. The result of simulation and test is basically the same and both reflect the formability.


Based on the structure and failure features of a new type of outer mesh and "two teeth difference" planetary gear transmission, a optimize method for the gear's parameters is pointed out avoid of structure failure. The modification coefficients of the gear pairs are obtained through optimize program, so the sliding coefficient for the active gear, passive gear and planetary gear approach to even. The relative slide between gears is reduced, and the working life of the structure is increased greatly.


Background & Objective: Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent malignancy with high mortality rate,
necessitating markers that predict survival and guide the treatment. Previous studies have examined the
immunohistochemical expression of Bcl-2, anti apoptotic marker, in colorectal carcinoma, but results have been
contradictory.To evaluate the histopathological features of colorectal carcinoma, immunohistochemical expression of
Bcl-2 must be analyzed to find out statistical association of Bcl-2 expression with certain prognostic factors
histopathologic type, grade and TNM staging and also clinical parameters like age gender, site. Methods: This
prospective study was conducted on the colectomy specimens of colorectal carcinoma,over a period of 2 years 6months
From may 2018 to November 2020 The tumor morphology and Bcl-2 status were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in
each case,with the inclusion criteria of resected intestinal specimens among which only malignant epithelial lesions and
exclusion of all benign lesions. Results:The study included 40 cases,with age group of patients 51-60(37.5%) years and
male:female ratio of 1.2:1.Bcl-2 positivity was seen in 37.5% of the cases.Weak,moderate,and strong expression of Bcl-2
was seen in 62.5%, 25%, and 12.5% of cases respectively. Even though early stages of colorectal carcinoma showed
greater frequency of Bcl-2 expression than advanced stages (25% versus 12.5%), however this association was not
statistically significant. Conclusion: The expression of bcl 2 out of 40 resected specimens of colorectal carcinoma
correlated with various histological and clinical paramaters .bcl 2 positivity was assessed by semiquantitaive method
and its expression was decreased with increase in grade and stage of the tumour and increased with the early stages of
colorectal cancer


Voice conversion is a technique that modifies a source speaker's speech to be perceived as if a target speaker had spoken it. Among the algorithms of conversion published in the literature, the techniques using GMM are nowadays the reference. In this paper, we focus on a new technique for estimating parameters of the conversion function. We show that it is possible to determinate these parameters without statistical estimation using the classical Expectation Minimization (EM) algorithm. We propose a new method for determining the conversion function parameters. The technique proposed is based on an iterative statistical refinement algorithm working directly from data. The consequence of this strategy is that the estimation of the conversion function is very fast.


Background. Limited antigen degradation by proteolytic enzymes and their control by protease inhibitors represent a crucial step in generating antigenic peptides inside the endocytic pathway of antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells. Methods. Human dendritic cells were used as a cell model in which quantitative immunogold electron microscopy was applied in order to study endogenous protease inhibitor cystatin C. Ultrathin cryosections were prepared from immature and mature dendritic cells and labelled with specific antibody. Under the transmission electron microscope gold particles, bound to specific probe (antibody), pointed the exact localization of labelled inhibitor. Results. Quantification of immunogold labelling and further statistical analysis by chi-squared test emphasized the differences in cystatin C content in different cell compartments. Conclusions. Statistically significant differences in intracellular distribution of cystatin C have been determined between immature and mature dendritic cell population.


Abstract Introduction The impact of night-to-night variability in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) severity on important health outcomes such as blood pressure is unknown. This study aimed to determine the effects of night-to-night variability in the apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI) on hypertension risk and OSA misdiagnoses. Methods In-home nightly monitoring of 67,278 participants from 151 countries, over ~170 nights per participant between July 2020 to March 2021 using a validated under mattress sleep analyser. Blood pressure measurements were available in 12,295 participants. OSA was defined as a mean nightly AHI >15events/h. Night-to-night variability was assessed as the standard deviation of AHI across nights. Results 22.6% (95% CI: 20.9–24.3) of the cohort (13% of women, 25% of men) had an average AHI> 15 events/h sleep. The average nightly AHI variability ranged from 3±1 in people without OSA to 14±6 in people with severe OSA. Higher mean AHI (OR [95% CI], 1.44 [1.29, 1.61]) and greater nightly variability in AHI (1.57 [1.39, 1.76]) were associated with hypertension. In people with a mean AHI of ≥5 events/h, high night-to-night AHI variability was associated with a ~30% increased risk in hypertension, independent of OSA severity category. Likelihood of misdiagnosis of OSA based on a single night compared to the mean across all nights was ~20%; this decreased with more monitoring nights. Conclusions These findings highlight the novel, important information that simple multi-night monitoring of OSA can yield. This includes the potential importance of night-to-night variation and its contribution to hypertension and increased confidence of OSA diagnoses.


This paper presents advanced digital signal algorithms for adaptive filtering applied for noise cancellation and signal analysis in real-time. Correlated and not-correlated signal parts are distinguished by such methods based on the statistical characteristics of the received signals. Real-time measurements of electromagnetic interference (EMI) in noisy environments are shown. An advanced digital signal processing technique for fast measurements of electromagnetic interferences is presented, carrying out the measurements in time-domain and reducing the total measurement time by orders of magnitude. For optimum noise suppression performance, different approaches of adaptive filter algorithms were investigated and enhanced with respect to implementation of the noise cancelling algorithm on field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) and enabling signal processing in real-time. Noise suppressing in real-time is shown in frequency bands of over 125MHz at once. Several real-time bands up to 1 GHz are measured and signals completely covered by ambient noise could be successfully detected, e.g. in the DAB, the DVB-T and LTE frequency bands.


The use of spatial data as a support system in renewable energy and energy conservation development program is one of important aspects to reach effective and efficient goals and targets of the development. The availability of complete and accurate spatial data will increase the quality of development in the areas of renewable energy and conservation energy especially at the Department of Mining and Energy in West Kalimantan Province. Geographic Information System (GIS) facilitates users to analyze and access data and information to support decision making processes. The existing model of information system at the Department of Mining and Energy in West Kalimantan Province is stored in a variety of formats in many locations. Data and information are not stored in an integrated system. In order to help users to access and analyze data and information in an efficient way, it is necessary to use GIS which is able to integrate data and information and to be accessed online. This research uses a modeling method in order to propose a model of data and information analyses of renewable energy potentials and electricity to the Department of Mining and Energy in West Kalimantan Province. In regard to the existing models, literature reviews, and best practices, the proposed model was examined through Focus Group Discussion. The FGD is aimed to get inputs, ideas, correction, and information from participants who have experiences in GIS. Finally, the proposed model of GIS is developed to support the implementation process of renewal energy and energy conservation program at the Department of Mining and Energy in West Kalimantan Province by presenting valid and up to date data and information of renewable energy and electricity. Basically the working process of the existing model and the proposed model is similar, however


Students in CS1 and CS2 often find learning object-oriented programming a very difficult task due to the intrinsic complexity of the concepts. This paper discusses how instructors may develop a series of mini projects to help students grasp fundamental object-oriented design principles and foster their programming skills. These mini projects, which consist of two console applications and a Windows application, cover basic object-oriented programming principles, such as encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism, as well as advanced topics including static members, interfaces, delegates and events, and object serialization. The feedback and evaluations from the students demonstrated the effectiveness of this teaching methodology with mini projects. Students had better understanding of both programming concepts and design principles.


Using an available compound 3 pentanone(1) as starting material, the key intermediate compound 4,6 dimethyl 3,7 nonandione(5) was synthesized through the addition elimination of silylenol ether and Michael addition of α methylene 3 pentanone(4) with silylenol ether(2). In the presence of chiral reagent 6 β phenyl amino 3 β,5α chlorestandiol(7), compound (5) was reduced by KBH 4 directly to give Tobacco Beetle Pheromone (7S) (-) 4,6 dimethyl 7 hydroxyl 3 nonanone(6). 25 D=-35 87°( c =0 23, CHCl 3), overall yield 23 9%.


A ferrocene-based bis(phosphinoamine) fc(NHP(i)Pr2)2 has been deprotonated and used in salt metathesis reactions to form dimeric complexes ([fc(NP(i)Pr2)2]M)2 (M = Fe, Co). A novel coordination environment for Co(II) is observed including a weak but significant Fe-Co interaction, which was characterized using X-ray crystallography, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and VT-magnetometry. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations including natural bond order analysis provides further support for the interaction and suggests a combination of Fe → Co and Co → Fe interactions.


This paper contains results of the three-dimensional simulations of the
 surface topography evolution of the niobium superconducting radio frequency
 cavities during isotropic and anisotropic etching modes. The initial rough
 surface is determined from the experimental power spectral density. The
 simulation results based on the level set method reveal that the time
 dependence of the root mean square roughness obeys Family-Viscek scaling law.
 The growth exponential factors b are determined for both etching modes.
 Exponential factor for the isotropic etching is 100 times lower than that for
 the anisotropic etching mode reviling that the isotropic etching is very
 useful mechanism of the smoothing. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike
 Srbije, br. O171037 i br. III45006


Data mining or Data Analytics is a set of techniques that allows to analyzing data from different perspectives and summarizing it into useful information. It is the process of finding correlations or patterns in large historical datasets. It can be applied in almost any field ranging from business to education, then to medicine. Data mining has been increasingly used in medicine, especially in oncology. Breast cancer (BC) becomes the most common cancer among females worldwide and the leading cause of death in developed countries. Many studies have attempted to apply Data mining techniques to detect survivability of cancers in human beings. This paper aims to perform a systematic mapping study to analyze and synthesize studies on the application of Data mining techniques in breast cancer. 403 articles published between 2000 and 2016 were therefore selected and analyzed according to five criteria: year and channel of publication, research type, medical task, empirical type and DM techniques. Results show that conferences and journals are the most publication venues, researchers were more interested in applying DM techniques for diagnosis of BC, historical based evaluation was the empirical type of studies most used in the evaluation of DM techniques in BC, and classification was the most investigated task of DM in BC.


SUMMARY Menetrier's disease is an infrequent disease of the stomach of unknown etiology. This disease is causes giant folds of tissue to grow in the wall of the stomach. At present is considered to be premalignant with 15% of affected individuals develop gastric cancer. We present a 56-year-old patient who is admitted by pain in the top middle part of the abdomen, loss of appetite and vomiting. This disease is diagnosed through endoscopy and biopsy of stomach tissue. We provide an update on the optimal therapeutic approach, which has not been clearly defined to date.


The article is devoted to the study of problematic issues of bringing to administrative responsibility of persons driving animal-drawn transport for road safety offenses. The legal status of persons driving animal-drawn transport, normative legal acts enshrining the rights and obligations of these persons (the Law of Ukraine «On Road Traffic», the Rules of the Road, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine from 10.10.2001 № 1306, and also Order of the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine «On approval of the Rules of labor protection in agricultural production» from 29.08.2018 № 1240). Based on the analysis of domestic legislation establishing administrative liability for violation of traffic rules by persons driving animal-drawn transport, proposals for current amendments to the legislation of Ukraine in the field of road safety to eliminate certain gaps in the prosecution of persons, who drive animal-drawn transport. Today in the Rules of the Road there is no definition of «animal-drawn transport», which creates problematic issues in the understanding of the definition, as well as the definition of «road user» does not cover the concept of a person who driving animal-drawn transport. It also creates certain problems in bringing individuals to administrative responsibility. Therefore, in a scientific article, it is proposed to supplement the current legislation of Ukraine in the field of road safety with a new definition of «animal-drawn transport», and place it in section 1 «General Provisions» of the Rules of the Road, as well as to include persons driving animal-drawn transport in the category of road users, make changes to the definition of «road user» in order to overcome certain problematic issues of bringing to administrative responsibility for violation of traffic rules that caused damage to vehicles, cargo, roads, streets, railway crossings, road structures or other property. In case of making the proposed changes to the Rules of the Road of persons driving animal-drawn transport, it will be possible to bring such persons to administrative responsibility under Art. 124 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses. Today, law enforcement agencies of Ukraine, which carry out their activities in the field of road safety, do not have such an opportunity.


Chitosan flakes as adsorbent for adsorption chromium (VI) of electroplating wastewater was studied. Batch experiments were carried out the dosage of adsorbent and pH, conditions. The pore volume, pore diameter and surface area of chitosan flakes were 4.71x10-4 cm3/g, 1.86 nm and 1.01 m2/g, respectively. The experimental results showed that adsorption capacity of electroplating wastewater of chitosan flakes at pH 2.7 was 115.0 mg Cr/g chitosan. The chromium (VI) adsorption of electroplating wastewater could be decribed by Freundlich adsorption model. The kinetic of adsorption could be elucidated by pseudo-second order. The mechanism of the adsorption occured in 2 steps.


The weathering of sandstone monument and the deteriorating of some medieval frescoes in cathedrals and castels from Germany were investigated. Fungal growth was observed in the decaying materials, both inside and outside. Therefore, organic acid excretion by the fungal population was considered to be an important factor in the materials' decay. This hypothesis was substantiated by culture experiments, carried out with different aluminosilicate minerals common in building stones.


In recent years, researchers have begun to move away from a static, cross-sectional analysis of poverty to examine income dynamics, including routes into and out of poverty. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of what is known from quantitative research on routes out of income poverty. It shows that there is a diversity of routes out of poverty, with some routes being more important for some types of household than for others. The research supports the Labour government's argument that work is the surest route out of poverty. But it also shows that it is not a guaranteed one, as some people who move into work remain poor. And nor is it a route that is equally applicable to all households. For pensioners and the more severely disabled people, for instance, increases in benefit income are likely to be the most effective escape routes from poverty.


In the presence of a dielectric slab, the modes of the free electromagnetic field comprise traveling modes, consisting of incoming, reflected, and transmitted parts, as well as trapped modes that are subject to repeated total internal reflection and emerge as evanescent field outside the slab. Traveling modes have a continuous range of frequencies, but trapped modes occur only at certain discrete frequencies. We solve the problem of which relative weight to use when summing over all modes, as commonly required in perturbative calculations. We demonstrate the correctness of our method by showing the completeness of electromagnetic field modes in the presence of a dielectric slab. We derive a convenient method of summing over all modes by means of a single contour integral, which is very useful in standard quantum electrodynamic calculations.


INTRODUCTION: In the past decade numerous efforts have been made to enhance quality of care in the province of Québec for patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Despite two prior field evaluations and diffusion of a systematic review as well as recommendations, a third audit revealed persistent gaps in care, specifically excessive treatment delays. Our cardiovascular evaluation unit thus aimed to develop a more comprehensive quality improvement framework that further engaged healthcare professionals. METHODS: A literature update identified best practices and ways to reduce treatment delays and improve outcomes. This review, combined with the latest evaluation results, was used to establish structural and process quality standards adapted to the Québec context, via a consensus process with a panel of clinical experts. The standards identified quality-of-care targets and key elements of a governance structure to guide the improvement process. Quality indicators to monitor change were also developed. An implementation plan was then created, likewise based on literature and evaluation results. RESULTS: For the first time, the unit publicly disseminated the results of the third evaluation according to region, in addition to standard individual hospital "report cards". A summit conference was held during which the standards and indicators were presented to clinicians and other stakeholders, in collaboration with the health ministry and a panel of cardiovascular experts. Site visits are planned to facilitate change and establishment of local improvement plans and committees. A "tool kit" was developed containing a treatment algorithm, a drug protocol, five quality indicators each for processes and care networks, and measurement tools for indicators. A 75 percent minimal achievement target was set for treatment times. CONCLUSIONS: A comprehensive framework aimed at improving quality of care for STEMI patients and monitoring change was created by combining evidence from the literature and "real world" data and mobilizing key stakeholders.


The effects of both the (+)and ( )-enantiomen of VII were reversed by P2S in both tests in the same manner as the effects of any of the ethyl S-alkylmethylphosphonothioates. It is noteworthy that although the (+)and (-)-isomers of VII inhibit acetylcholinesterase at different rates and substantially faster than the (+)and (-)-isomers of the S-alkyl methylphosphonothioates (e.g. I( +) and I( -)), the reactivation profiles of all four compounds were indistinguishable. The results of the in vivo experiments showed marked differences from those obtained in vitro. The rank order of the LD50 values did not correspond with the rank order of potency of the compounds in the in vitro tests (Table 2). Moreover there was sometimes no significant difference between the LD50 values of an enantiomeric pair even though the (-)-isomer was in vitro clearly a more potent anti-acetylcholinesterase than the (+)isomer. In the case of one compound, ethyl S-propyl methylphosphonothioate (I), the (+)-isomer was significantly more toxic than the (-)-isomer in contrast to the results of the in vitro results. In the gastrocnemius muscle, as is shown in Fig. 2, the administration of P2S at a dose of 130pmol kg-l, during poisoning by the (-)-enantiomer of I, reestablished neuromuscular function whereas similar P2S treatment of poisoning by the (+)-enantiomer and the racemate failed to restore neuromuscular function. Compounds I1 and 111 showed similar behaviour. In marked contrast, the effects of both the (+)and (-)muscle enantiomers of VII on the gastrocnemius preparation were reversed by administration of p2s The difference in response to P2S of the (+)( -)-enantiomen of the ethyl-methylphosphonothioates I, I1 and 111 was consistent with the prelimi observation that rats poisoned by (+)ethyl-smethylphosphonothioate ( I+) failed to respond to P2S-atropine treatment. Thus whereas for I(,


Taken the public squares and parks of centre district in Wuhan City as example. Firstly,it made Voronoi diagram to get respective coverage with using GIS, and calculate the actual population and volume of each area; then compare the volume and the actual population in order to get the outcome that whether each public square and park could satisfy people's demand. Secondly, the piece made buffer diagram under the situation of considering traffic and elaborates the method that how to plan a reasonable distribution of the city squares and the parks.


This study is to examine the relationship among participation motivation, leisure satisfaction, and participation behavior of golf range user's. The participants were selected by convenient quota sampling method. They were composed of 421 adults who had been participating in golf practice in golf ranges. All data of completed questions are encoded and Spss Windows 14.0 and AMOS 7.0 programs were used. The conclusion of this research was as follows. The pleasure factor, the skill development factor, the health and fitness factor of participation motivation had an effect on physical psychological satisfaction. The physical, psychological and rest satisfaction factors of leisure satisfactions influenced participation behavior. There are connections among participation motivation, leisure satisfaction, and participation behavior.


The investigation results on the resistance spot weld quality of Al-Mg alloy sheet are summarized as follows;(1) Comparison of continuous spot weldability with mild steel sheet Compared with mild steel, the Al-Mg alloy exhibits degradation and variation of tensile shear strength associated with continuous resistance spot welding, and causes excessively serious wear in electrodes.(2) A study for variation of tensile shear strength in continuous resistance spot welding Variation of tensile shear strength in continuous resistace spot welding is due to nonuniform corona bond formation and nonuniform nugget size and profile.(3) Effects of oxide film and heat condition, (1) The oxide film causes localized wear in electrodes, and in addition, even prevents the formation of corona bond. (2) If the heat input after saturation of nugget growth is regaded as extra heat, it promotes wear in electrodes and causes corona bond formation. (3) Variation of tensile shear strength is improved mainly by removing oxide film. In addition by reducing the heat input, it causes degradation of tensile shear strength and makes the failure mode sparse, the formation of corona bond is suppressed and then tensile shear strength become stable and electrode life is extended.


In Tigray, regional state of Ethiopia, spotted hyenas are sources of conflict with livestock-owning people. The present study was conducted in southeastern Tigray to investigate diet and economic impact of hyena predation on livestock. To obtain information about the actual diet of hyenas, hyena droppings were collected in the field. A total of 180 hyena droppings were collected, washed, hairs extracted and were then compared with a pr ey species hair reference coll ection. Economic impact of l ivestock predation was investigated through household survey with randomly selected households. The species, age, number and sex of livestock killed by spott ed hyena were recorded. Annual loss due to livestock depredation was 2.2 per household in the village, with an estimated total commercial value of about US$ 6,116. Hyenas attack livestock exclusively at night and solitary. Of the respondents 97.5% indicated predation exclusively solitary. Attacks were both day and night times preferring small livestock like goats and sheep as well as donkey. Over 97.5% of respondents in the village reported that they faced problems of depredation. The extent of the loss varies greatly between farmers. 97.87% of the droppings were identified of which donkey; cattle, sheep, goats, mule and horse accounted 84.66%. Predation on livestock seemed to be of great economic importance and was more a problem in the village. Spotted hyena preyed mainly on domestic animals may be due to the reduction of wild prey species in the area.


The law No. 17 year 2003 concerning State Finance is the first law in the state finance adopted since Indonesia's independence. This writing is aimed at analyzing how far the law has been successful in managing the state budget for the las 10 (ten) years. Library is used in this method. Based on the research it can be concluded study with the adoption of Law No. 17 Year 2003 concerning state budget management has not yet shown satisfactory result


The article offers an initial reading of the poetic translation by Josely Vianna Baptista to the sacred chants of the Mbya-guarani from Cuaira, which present the Guarani cosmology. It also exams the translation by Haroldo de Campos of the scene of origin according to the Hebrew memory. Briefly, it will point out fortuitous approximations and eventual distancings between the mitopoetics and identify the translation project proposed by these two poets and translators. Above all, it will demonstrate the dialogue between the two productions through the founding word which, in its dialectical validity, creates worlds and establishes the earth, the humus, the man. It proposes a reflection on the role of language and orality for the Mbya and the Hebrews, in order to hear the construct of their nature. This article demonstrate how the reader has access to cultural events through the transculturation carried out by these poets.


ABSTRACT This study presents an analysis of low-power laser treatment of calcified periarthritis based on X-rays before and after therapy. X-rays from 83% of those patients treated with IR diodes and He-Ne laser therapy revealed recovery after 4 months of treatment.


PURPOSE: An inorganic paint composition for concrete is provided to ensure excellent degradation prevention, durability, and water resistance and surface hardness, and to secure chemical resistance and fungus resistance while overcoming the contamination of the surface. CONSTITUTION: A method for fabricating an inorganic paint composition for concrete comprises the steps of: mixing an aqueous colloidal silica 100.0 parts by weight and water 20~45 parts by weight then raising the temperature of the mixture; preparing a composite colloidal silica by adding a solution mixed with potassium hydroxide 10~20 parts by weight, aluminum hydroxide 0.3~0.9 parts by weight and water 10~30 parts by weight to the heated aqueous colloidal silica and then stirring the mixture; adding organo alkoxysilane 1~8 parts by weight to the aqueous colloidal silica and the stirring the mixture; and adding a fluorosurfactant of chemical formula 1: C_nF_(2n+1)CH_2CH_2SO_3^(-)NH_4^(+), inorganic filler 7~20 parts by weight, synthetic zeolite impregnated with silver 1~10 parts by weight and pigment 1~10 parts by weight.


The reform and opening program, which has been going on in China ever since late 1978, paved the way for the poor in Tibet to escape from their poverty. The implementation of the western region development strategy now ushers in a new stage of development in Tibet. Cashing in on this opportunity, many in Xigaze have amassed enormous wealth.


Computer technology in libraries has revolutionised the concept of rapid and accurate information services. In Pakistan, though, computer technology is new and is being successfully introduced in all types of libraries and information centres. This article reviews the literature on the use of computers in Pakistan's libraries. The literature includes monographs, journal articles, reports, etc. published inside and outside Pakistan, discussing information technology, specific library applications, the activities of individual libraries and automation education. The need for library automation and the problems faced by Pakistani professionals in this respect are also discussed. Introduction Although the use of computers in libraries and information centres is a recent innovation in the developed world, during the last ten years a significant number of Pakistani libraries have also been enjoying the benefits of this technology. With the inception of computer technology in libraries new terms like "information technology" and "library automation" have become common. Computers, telecommunications and microelectronics are used in libraries for obtaining, storing and transferring information. The ability of a computer to carry out these library functions quickly, accurately, and systematically, makes it a most useful tool. The timely availability of information can play a fundamental role in the development of a country like Pakistan. International agencies played a very important role in introducing computerised library services to Pakistan. Among these organisations the most noteworthy are the Asia Foundation, USAID, the International Development Research Centre of Canada, and the Netherlands government. These agencies provided Pakistani libraries with funds and advisory services. During the 1990s the Netherlands Library Development Project (NLDP) was instrumental in introducing new information technology to Pakistan. Its major projects included the provision of hardware to libraries and library schools, establishment of computer centres, training of professionals inside and outside Pakistan, library software development, retrospective conversion, developing CD-ROM databases, and introducing information technology into the library science curriculum. From the beginning of computer use in Pakistani libraries, authors in the field of library and information science have written about it. A reasonable Asian Libraries, Vol. 8 No. 9, 1999, pp. 307-328. © MCB University Press, 1017-6748 Refereed article received 20 August 1998 Approved for publication 1 April 1999


Manufacturers of the three dry sulfur scrubber systems expect their products to be favored by utilities building plants to burn low-sulfur western coal. Simplicity, economy, operating and waste disposal ease, and a more than 50% reduction in water requirements make the dry systems more attractive than wet scrubbers. Basin Electric has pioneered commercial-size dry scrubbing technology and has favored the system's simplicity and potential availability. Dry scrubbing is limited when sulfur content levels are too high to make it cost effective, but the threshold is expected to rise as dry scrubbing technology develops. A description of commercial installations includes a breakdown of a wet versus dry economic evaluation. The dry scrubbers were acknowledged in the structuring of the Environmental Protection Agency's New Source Performance Standards. (DCK)


Introduction: The plant-derived chemicals 1,8-cineole, a-pinene, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, lavender, linalool and trans-2-hexenal are commonly found in many household products and are widely used in complementary medicine. It has been suggested that when applied topically these plant-derived chemicals cause smooth muscle relaxation. However, despite widespread usage, the concentration-dependent effects, reversibility and sites of action of these plant-derived chemicals on smooth muscle has not been well characterised. This thesis has examined the concentration-dependent effects, reversibility and presynaptic and postsynaptic sites of action of 1,8-cineole, a-pinene, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol on smooth muscle. Methods: The effects of 1,8-cineole, a-pinene, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol were examined using electrophysiological and contractile experimentation. Electrophysiological experimentation examined the concentration-dependent effects of these chemicals, at concentrations ranging from 0.001 % to 0.05 %, on electrically evoked nerve terminal impulses of mouse ductus deferentes (n=6) and electrically evoked excitatory junction currents of mouse ductus deferentes (n=6). Contractile experimentation examined the effects of these chemicals, at a concentration of 0.03 %, on 5-hydroxytryptamine evoked contractile forces of rat ilea (n=6), acetylcholine evoked contractile forces of rat ilea (n=6), histamine evoked contractile forces of guinea pig ilea (n=6), noradrenaline evoked contractile forces of rat ductus deferentes (n=6), electrically evoked contractile forces of rat ductus deferentes (n=6) and oxytocin evoked increases of minimum tensions of rat uterine horns (n=6). Contractile experimentation also examined the concentration-dependent effects of these chemicals, at concentrations ranging from 0.001 % to 0.05 %, on minimum tensions of rat ilea (n=9), rhythmic contractile forces of rat ilea (n=9) and rhythmic contractile periods of rat ilea (n=9). The reversibility of lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol, at a concentration of 0.03 %, were examined on electrically evoked nerve terminal impulses of mouse ductus deferentes (n=6) and electrically evoked contractile forces of rat ductus deferentes (n=6). The reversibility of 1,8-cineole, lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol, at a concentration of 0.03 %, were examined on electrically evoked excitatory junction currents of mouse ductus deferentes (n=6) and chemically evoked contractile forces of rat ilea (n=6). Results: Lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol caused statistically significant concentration-dependent decreases (pl0.05) of electrically evoked nerve terminal impulses relative to the respective controls. 1,8-Cineole, lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol caused statistically significant concentration-dependent decreases (pl0.05) of electrically evoked excitatory junction currents and rhythmic contractile forces relative to the respective controls. 1,8-Cineole, lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol caused statistically significant decreases (pl0.05) of 5-hydroxytryptamine, acetylcholine, histamine and noradrenaline evoked contractile forces and oxytocin evoked increases of minimum tensions relative to the respective controls. Lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol caused statistically significant decreases (pl0.05) of electrically evoked contractile forces relative to the respective controls. 1,8-Cineole, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol caused statistically significant concentration-dependent decreases (pl0.05) of minimum tensions relative to the respective controls. After 1,8-cineole, lavender and 1-heptanol were washed from the tissues, there were no statistically significant differences (pg0.05) between electrically evoked excitatory junction currents and chemically evoked contractile forces relative to the respective controls. After lavender and 1-heptanol were washed from the tissues, there were no statistically significant differences (pg0.05) between electrically evoked nerve terminal impulses and electrically evoked contractile forces relative to the respective controls. After linalool and trans-2-hexenal were washed from the tissues, there were statistically significant differences (pl0.05) between electrically evoked nerve terminal impulses, electrically evoked excitatory junction currents, chemically evoked contractile forces and electrically evoked contractile forces relative to the respective controls. Discussion:Lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol most likely decreased electrically evoked nerve terminal impulse amplitudes by affecting voltage-gated sodium channels. 1,8-Cineole, lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol most likely decreased electrically evoked excitatory junction current amplitudes by decreasing electrically evoked nerve terminal impulse amplitudes. 1,8-Cineole, lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol most likely decreased 5-hydroxytryptamine, acetylcholine, histamine and noradrenaline evoked contractile forces and oxytocin evoked increases of minimum tensions by affecting the Gq subfamily signalling pathway but not by acting as specific antagonists to the receptors utilised to evoke these responses. Lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol most likely decreased electrically evoked contractile forces by inhibiting the pathway by which L-type voltage-gated calcium channels evoke contractile forces. 1,8-Cineole, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol most likely decreased minimum tensions by inhibiting calponin. 1,8-Cineole most likely decreased rhythmic contractile forces by increasing the activity of ATPase transporters. Lavender, linalool, trans-2-hexenal and 1-heptanol most likely decreased rhythmic contractile forces by decreasing the cytosolic concentration of calcium ions within smooth muscle cells or by inhibiting cross-bridge cycling. 1,8-Cineole and 1-heptanol were demonstrated to be reversible whereas linalool and trans-2-hexenal were demonstrated to be irreversible. It is likely that at least one component of lavender is reversible and at least one component of lavender is irreversible. Lavender, linalool and trans-2-hexenal could be clinically utilised as local anaesthetics and smooth muscle relaxants. 1,8-Cineole could also be clinically utilised as a smooth muscle relaxant.


Background Development of thoracic aortic aneurysms is the most significant clinical phenotype in patients with Marfan syndrome. An inflammatory response has been described in advanced stages of the disease. Because the hallmark of vascular inflammation is local interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) secretion, we explored the role of this proinflammatory cytokine in the formation of aortic aneurysms and rupture in hypomorphic fibrillin‐deficient mice (mgR/mgR). Methods and Results MgR/mgR mice developed ascending aortic aneurysms with significant dilation of the ascending aorta by 12 weeks (2.7±0.1 and 1.3±0.1 for mgR/mgR versus wild‐type mice, respectively; P<0.001). IL‐6 signaling was increased in mgR/mgR aortas measured by increases in IL‐6 and SOCS3 mRNA transcripts (P<0.05) and in cytokine secretion of IL‐6, MCP‐1, and GM‐CSF (P<0.05). To investigate the role of IL‐6 signaling, we generated mgR homozygous mice with IL‐6 deficiency (DKO). The extracellular matrix of mgR/mgR mice showed significant disruption of elastin and the presence of dysregulated collagen deposition in the medial‐adventitial border by second harmonic generation multiphoton autofluorescence microscopy. DKO mice exhibited less elastin and collagen degeneration than mgR/mgR mice, which was associated with decreased activity of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 and had significantly reduced aortic dilation (1.0±0.1 versus 1.6±0.2 mm change from baseline, DKO versus mgR/mgR, P<0.05) that did not affect rupture and survival. Conclusion Activation of IL‐6‐STAT3 signaling contributes to aneurysmal dilation in mgR/mgR mice through increased MMP‐9 activity, aggravating extracellular matrix degradation.


The grammatical form such as an article that specifically determines a noun does not exist in Korean sentence. The determination is essential for noun in sentence. Therefore, it is indirectly determined by postposition, aspect, and modality in Korean sentence. But these grammatical forms are not one-to-one correspondent with determining contents. It is determined by the construction of those. Finally, the determined meaning of noun is related with the speaker's perception of the described situation. For example, the completive aspect assigns reality to described situation, which gives the referentiality to sentence, and specificity to the noun as the subject and the object. In this study, the determing contents are classified into specific reference, non-specific reference, universal generic, and existential generic. And they are composed by the construction of postposition, aspectual elements, modality in a sentence.


This study applies critical discourse analysis to examine how language influences digital technology policies. Specifically, the researcher examined how lawmakers and major phone providers symbolically associated widely supported ideas—including net neutrality, job creation, technological innovation and consumer protection—with deregulation of telecommunications services. Twenty-seven states have adopted legislation that eliminates or reduces the authority of local and state agencies to regulate voice-over Internet protocol (VoIP) telephone services, which transmit voice communications digitally. The discourse surrounding passage of VoIP deregulation provides key insights into how culturally symbolic phrases are used to legitimize arguments, to paint a particular picture of reality and evoke universal themes. The analysis primarily focuses on about a dozen state bills modeled after legislation written by the American Legislative Exchange Council, a conservative corporate-member group.


Purpose: The purpose of this study is to develop a new 3-D iterative Monte Carlo algorithm to recover the heterogeneous distribution of molecular absorbers with a solid tumor. Introduction: Spectroscopic imaging (PCT-S) has the potential to identify a molecular species and quantify its concentration with high spatial fidelity. To accomplish this task, tissue attenuation losses during photon propagation in heterogeneous 3D objects is necessary. An iterative recovery algorithm has been developed to extract 3D heterogeneous parametric maps of absorption coefficients implementing a MC algorithm based on a single source photoacoustic scanner and to determine the influence of the reduced scattering coefficient on the uncertainty of recovered absorption coefficient. Material and Methods: This algorithm is tested for spheres and ellipsoids embedded in simulated mouse torso with optical absorption values ranging from 0.01-0.5/cm, for the same objects where the optical scattering is unknown (μs'=7-13/cm), and for a heterogeneous distribution of absorbers. Results: Systemic and statistical errors in ma with a priori knowledge of μs' and g are <2% (sphere) and <4% (ellipsoid) for all ma and without a priori knowledge of ms' is <3% and <6%. For heterogenenous distributions of ma, errors are <4% and <5.5% for each object with a prior knowledge of ms' and g, and to 7 and 14% when μs' varied from 7-13/cm. Conclusions: A Monte Carlo code has been successfully developed and used to correct for photon propagation effects in simulated objects consistent with tumors.


As a result of many requests for a phosphatase method which would use the phenyl phosphate substrate of King and Armstrong (1934), but which would substitute a determination of the liberated inorganic phosphate for that of phenol, we have developed two procedures which are described in this paper. The principal reason for a method in which the final measurement is of inorganic phosphate is that an estimation of the plasma phosphate is often required in the study of children's diseases; and it is thought to be desirable to combine this estimation with the phosphatase determination, as may easily be done by making the inorganic phosphate estimation identical with the control for the phosphatase. This is done in some of the glycerophosphate procedures, such as those of Jenner and Kay (1932) and Bodansky But the use of phenol phosphate for phosphatase determination is greatly to be preferred, because of the greater convenience of the procedure, the much shorter time which is necessary to complete the determination, and the small amounts of blood plasma or serum required. procedures aminonaphtholsulphonic acid reducing agent; a more micro procedure, molybdate-stannous chloride


Objective:The ultrasonic-assisted extraction technology was used to extract the seeds of Paeonia suffruticosa Andr.Method:The single factor and orthogonal design experiments were adopted to study the effects of such factors liquid-solid ratio,ultrasonic power,extraction temperature and time on oil extraction rate.The seeds oil was analyzed by GC-MS to determine constituents.Result:The optimal technological condition of oil extraction was determined and the parameters of oil extraction using petroleum ether with boiling rang of 60~90℃ as the solvent should be as follows:the liquid-solid ratio was 8mL/g,the ultrasonic power was 350W,the extraction temperature was 40℃,the extraction was 30min,and under such condition,the total oil extraction rate after three times extractions is 24.89%.Conclusion:Based on the results of GC-MS analysis,unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid and linolenic acid abound in Paeonia suffruticosa Andr.seeds,the content of linoleic acid and linolenic acid were 22.78% and 64.14%,respectively.


THE surgical management of craniopharyngiomas, whether radical or conservative, has always been hazardous. Gordy, Peet and Kahn1 reported a series of 51 cases in which the operative mortality was 4...


The detection and punishment of illegal cartels are at the top of the European Commission's enforcement agenda. In 2001, the Commission meted out record fines in cartel cases totaling $ 1.6…


he Mgar was undoubtedly the most powerful family of the Tibetan empire during the second half of the seventh century. The family has already been the subject of a fine overview in Hugh Richardson's article "The Mgar Family in Seventh Century Tibet." 1 His approach combines data from both Chinese and old Tibetan sources, but also briefly deals with legends about the travel of the famous minister Mgar Stong rtsan Yul zung to China. However, later accounts are only partially evoked, and much remains to be said. The present study will start with the history of the Mgar family in the seventh century, before examining its later reshaping. It is a striking feature of the subject that lives of the early Mgar are relatively well documented by historically reliable sources, such as Dunhuang Tibetan manuscripts and Chinese sources, and the subject for legendary developments in both written and oral literatures.


When we think about the relationship between human beings and their environment, we usually end by pondering the profoundly negative effect that our species has had on so many other species, often to the point of driving them from the face of the earth. But many of our manipulations also have made it more difficult for our own species to survive, not only because we've poisoned the environment with sulfur dioxide, lead, and dioxin, but because our changes have allowed many disease organisms to become much more dangerous. By changing the environment, we have not only killed off many organisms, but have created ideal conditions for others, and many of these-black flies, mosquitoes, snails-are vectors for a host of parasitical diseases. No matter where in the United States we teach, in cities, suburbs, or rural areas, we are surrounded by enough environmental problems to keep our students occupied indefinitely. So why should we bother presenting the problems of parasitical diseases, particularly those caused by animal parasites-protozoa and worms? These are primarily tropical diseases. Our students worry about developing heart disease or cancer. They don't give a second thought to malaria or schistosomiasis, and, practically speaking, they don't have to. If they remain within the United States, their chances of contracting most of these diseases are relatively slim. But there cire good reasons for making students aware of these diseases. The immunologist Sir Macfarlane Burnet has said, "If we take as our standard of importance the greatest harm to the greatest number, then there is no question that malaria is the most important of all infectious diseases" (Natural History of Infectious Disease). As inhabitants of this planet, our students should have some appreciation for what their fellow inhabitants have to contend with. Acquainting them with malaria, schistosomiasis, or sleeping sickness helps to relieve their biological isolationism. Nor should we feel too superior to other peoples. We have our own problems with parasites. In 1912 it was estimated that there were a million cases of malaria a year in the southern United States, and that 40 percent of the population in these states were infected with hookworms (The Plague Killers by Greer Williams). Intensive eradication campaigns brought these diseases under control, but recent outbreaks of parasitical infections in this country are a constant reminder that, given an opportunity-that is, a suitable change in the environment-these organisms can rise up to plague us again. It's been estimated that from two to 20 percent of Americans are infected with the protozoan Giardia, an intestinal parasite that many travelers bring back to the U.S. Giardia, which causes persistent diarrhea, passes from its host into sewage. Outbreaks have occurred in several cities where the drinkMaura C. Flannery is Associate Professor of Biology at St. John's University, Jamaica, NY 11439. She earned a B.S. in biology from Marymount Manhattan College and an M.S., also in biology, from Boston College. Her major interest is in communicating science to the nonscientist. She has developed a biology course for criminal justice majors as well as courses in reproductive biology and in the future impact of biological research.


Professional development for astronomy instructors largely focuses on enhancing their understanding of the limitations of professor-centered lectures while also increasing awareness and better implementation of learning strategies that promote a learner-centered classroom environment. Given how difficult it is to get instructors to implement well-developed and innovative teaching ideas, even when these instructors are supplied with significant and compelling education research data, one must wonder what is missing from the most commonly used professional development experiences. This article proposes a learner- centered approach to professional development for college instructors, which we call situated apprenticeship. This novel approach purposely goes beyond simple awareness building and conventional modeling, challenging instructors to actively engage themselves in practicing teaching strategies in an environment of peer review in which participants offer suggestions and critiques of each other's implementation. Through this learner-centered teaching and evaluation experience, instructors' preexisting conceptual and pedagogical understandings of a particular instructional strategy are brought forth and examined in an effort to promote a real change of practice that positively impacts both their core pedagogical content knowledge and their skills in successfully implementing these teaching strategies. We believe that the adoption of our situated apprenticeship approach for professional development will increase the frequency and success of college instructors' implementation of research-validated instructional strategies for interactive learning.


The aim of this work is to develop a single‐step process to produce hydroxyapatite/polycaprolactone (HAp/PCL) composite filaments for 3D printing of bone scaffolds by fused deposition modeling (FDM). The HAp/PCL composite filaments are produced by hot‐melt extrusion, with direct in situ blending. For practical purposes, the effect of PCL particle size on filament homogeneity and printability is assessed between PCL in powder and pellet form. The effect of HAp content on processing parameters and filament properties is also evaluated. Filament extrudability, homogeneity, and shape consistency improve with increasing HAp content up to a threshold of 40 wt%. Furthermore, an optimal range of the composite melt viscosity for the extrusion process is defined. The produced filaments are successfully 3D printed by FDM and the resulting prototypes show improved compressive modulus and degradation rate with increasing HAp content. A cytocompatibility assay is conducted, which suggests an optimal HAp content to be less than 40 wt% in terms of cell viability, adhesion, and proliferation. The developed method offers several advantages, as it completely avoids the use of toxic solvents and enables the incorporation of very high HAp concentrations, further improving the chances of implementation of FDM for bone tissue regeneration medicine.


Low and intermediate mass stars (0.8-8M$\odot$) in the end of their evolution pass through a series of events of mass loss, which contributes for the enrichment of the interstellar medium. The end of this evolutionary process is preceded by the planetary nebulae (PNe) phase, representing an important source of information for understanding the chemical enrichment of galaxies. The M83 barred galaxy is a relatively nearby galaxy, which allows the spectrophotometric study of its photoionized objects. In the literature, HII regions have been extensively explored in this galaxy, though its PNe population has not previously been addressed. In this work we report, for the first time, a spectrophotometric study of the PNe population in the M83 galaxy. The data was observed with the Gemini GMOS multi-object spectrograph in 2014 using two grating configurations (R400 and B600) and under an excellent seeing condition (< 0.8 arcsec). These data are curently being reduced with the Gemini Pyraf package. In the first phase of this project we wish to confirm spectroscopically the PNe candidates of the sample to further analyze, for the first time, the radial gradient of chemical abundances from the PNe population in this galaxy.


Fine coal (-1 mm top size) is a global problem in terms of handling and pollution. It is expected that at least 6 percent of run-of-mine coal will be fines, and this does not include the fines generated in mining, beneficiation, and transportation processes. Fines can be processed through various means, which include recirculation with lump coal products to increase product quality. Alternatively, the coal can be sent to agglomeration processes; these include extrusion (pelletizing), spherical agglomeration, and briquetting. When considering briquetting, binders may be required if the coal has low caking properties, which is the case for some South-African bituminous coals. The briquettes can be used as a feedstock in thermal processes such as steam generation for electricity production or in fuel gas synthesis plants. In this study briquettes were manufactured with the aim of alleviating the handle-ability problems associated with coal fines, and then using these briquettes in combustion processes for steam generation. South African bituminous medium rank C coal was used, and its low vitrinite content necessitated the use of a binder. The binder used was of a novel composition consisting of two polymeric components (components A and B) with an added cross-linker to start the reaction (component XL). The study comprised of four phases namely, general mechanical testing (using an FED), an investigation into the optimal concentration and poly-acrylic binder composition, reactivity testing, and finally modelling of the binder formulation to the inherent properties of the coal used, which alluded to the behaviour of a briquette as a result of the maceral and mineral composition of the coal used. It was found that the poly-acrylic (PA) binder bound briquettes were comparably strong relative to briquettes formed using a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) binder. The briquettes formed using a binder yielded compressive strengths that were twice as strong as the binderless briquettes. None of the briquettes were able to reach lump coal compressive strengths, but achieved the recommended 350 kPa set out by Richards (1990) for transportation requirements. The binderless briquetteing process produced briquettes that had a fines production tendency of 5 ± 2 percent, which was close to the 5 percent recommended value by Richards (1990). The briquettes formed using a binder achieved fines-generation potentials below 5 percent at a 0.4 and 1.2 weight percent addition. None of the briquettes were found to be water resistant at these binder additions, however, when the concentration of the poly-acrylic binder was increased to 5 weight percent, the resulting briquettes yielded an average wet compressive strength of 318 kPa. The addition of binder did not hinder the combustion value of the briquettes. Therefore, the PA formulation could provide an alternative to PVA in the fines briquetting process, yielding briquettes that are stronger than binderless briquettes; that are transportable, and combustible. The resulting briquettes will have to be stored in dry conditions, and in terms of initial financial feasibility will be comparable to PVA.


Author Mark Mattayev Title Exploring the antecedents of e-loyalty and eWOM in the context of food delivery application services in Finland Subject Digital Marketing and Corporate Communication Type of work Master's Thesis Date 10.6.2022 Number of pages 60 pages and appendix Abstract The novelty introduced by food delivery applications to meals provided by restaurants has created a new customer experience due to its unique properties. Nevertheless, harnessing the full potential of such a service requires a deep understanding of the factors that lead to desired behavioral consequences. In this study, various quality dimensions (Food quality, service quality, and electronic service quality) and perceived value were explored as potential antecedents of the highest predictive capability towards forming electronic word-of-mouth and electronic loyalty intentions, through the mediating role of customer satisfaction. In order to explore this, the author conducted a literature review and formed a new theoretical model based on previous research findings. Once a new theoretical model was formed and presented, a quantitative, self-mediated survey was formulated and translated to suit the Finnish context. The accompanying restaurant chain named Rolls provided its digital distribution channels to gather the data from 238 valid respondents which was later analyzed in SPSS for validity and reliability and a structural model was plotted in order to examine the hypothesized relationships. Contrary to the expectations set in the study, food quality was shown to not have any significant relationship with any of the proposed constructs, while service quality proved to have the highest impact on eWOM, and eQuality had the highest impact on eLoyalty intention through the indirect mediation of customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the role of perceived value as an antecedent of customer satisfaction was confirmed, as well as the mediating role of customer satisfaction towards eWOM and eLoyalty intention. The theoretical and managerial contributions of this study allow for additional improvement of service development for practitioners in the field to enhance intended customer behaviors while academics can test the proposed new model in different contexts and add additional dimensions that would increase the predictive capabilities in the context of food delivery applications.The novelty introduced by food delivery applications to meals provided by restaurants has created a new customer experience due to its unique properties. Nevertheless, harnessing the full potential of such a service requires a deep understanding of the factors that lead to desired behavioral consequences. In this study, various quality dimensions (Food quality, service quality, and electronic service quality) and perceived value were explored as potential antecedents of the highest predictive capability towards forming electronic word-of-mouth and electronic loyalty intentions, through the mediating role of customer satisfaction. In order to explore this, the author conducted a literature review and formed a new theoretical model based on previous research findings. Once a new theoretical model was formed and presented, a quantitative, self-mediated survey was formulated and translated to suit the Finnish context. The accompanying restaurant chain named Rolls provided its digital distribution channels to gather the data from 238 valid respondents which was later analyzed in SPSS for validity and reliability and a structural model was plotted in order to examine the hypothesized relationships. Contrary to the expectations set in the study, food quality was shown to not have any significant relationship with any of the proposed constructs, while service quality proved to have the highest impact on eWOM, and eQuality had the highest impact on eLoyalty intention through the indirect mediation of customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the role of perceived value as an antecedent of customer satisfaction was confirmed, as well as the mediating role of customer satisfaction towards eWOM and eLoyalty intention. The theoretical and managerial contributions of this study allow for additional improvement of service development for practitioners in the field to enhance intended customer behaviors while academics can test the proposed new model in different contexts and add additional dimensions that would increase the predictive capabilities in the context of food delivery applications.


Introduction:
 Hospitalization for myocardial infarction (MI), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), or cardiac surgery [coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) or valve surgery] represents a key opportunity to refer and recruit eligible patients to cardiac rehabilitation (CR.) However, little is known about how hospitals influence CR enrollment at the national level.

 Methods:
 Using Medicare fee-for-service claims from 2017, we identified all patients with a principal discharge diagnosis of MI, PCI, CABG, or valve surgery. We defined CR enrollment as attending ≥ 1 session within 90 days and calculated hospital-specific CR enrollment rates. To assure stability of our statistical results, we limited our sample to hospitals where cardiac surgery was performed, and then examined the association between patient demographics, procedures, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics on CR enrollment using mixed effects hierarchical logistic regression. We calculated the median odds ratio (MOR) to estimate the extent to which the hospital where a patient was cared for influenced their chance of enrolling in CR.

 Results:
 At 3,420 hospitals, we identified a total of 264,970 eligible patients (age 77 ± 8 yrs., 58% male, 85% white, 39% surgical), of which 25% attended CR. While a minority (38%) of hospitals performed cardiac surgery - these hospitals cared for the vast majority (92%) of all eligible patients. At these hospitals, the median CR enrollment rate was low (22%) and varied 10-fold across hospitals at the 10
 th
 and 90
 th
 percentiles (3%, 42%). After multivariable adjustment, the factors most associated with CR enrollment were having cardiac surgery or undergoing PCI (OR 5.8, 2.6 vs. MI respectively), advancing age (OR 0.77 per 5-year increase), low socioeconomic status (OR 0.33), smoking (OR 0.59), or living in the Midwest (OR 2.3 vs. South), p <0.001 for all. The hospital MOR was 2.1, similar in effect size to PCI or Midwest location.

 Conclusions:
 In this large national study of older adults, participation rates in CR were low, and the hospital where patients receive their care was strongly associated with CR enrollment. As surgical hospitals care for the majority of all eligible patients, they appear to be the most logical place to focus improvement efforts.


Abstract Australian Aboriginal English is an indigenised variety of English, adopted by Australia's indigenous population under conditions of linguistic genocide. It is now the primary language of internal and wider communication for the majority of Australian Aboriginal people, and has undergone changes at all levels of language structure to become a distinct dialect with a unique set of linguistic features. The phonological, grammatical, semantic and discourse features described here illustrate the principal characteristics of this ethnolect and the linguistic variation within it, highlighting their relationship to social and cultural meanings and themes in the lives of the speakers. Aboriginal English can be seen to comprise a rich system of linguistic resources for expressing the full range of meanings that form and inform contemporary Australian Aboriginal experience, enhancing its function as both product and instrument of cultural survival. Full recognition of its stature among Australian and world Englishes has yet to be achieved.


AbstractThe paper addresses the implication of universities' social responsibility in the context of Tunisia. Universities, integrated in market and technology-led societies, are pressured by economic performativity, quality assurance and students' employability. Consequently, education for democracy and civic engagement still lies marginal to core curricula. Social and civic skills can be promoted to develop alternative channels for students' critical learning and engagement and student social responsibility can as a result be crucial to supporting the democratic transition in the region. In spite of this, in Tunisia, a general disregarding of universities' social dimensions has promoted an embedded socio-cultural environment where civic and democratic capabilities remain under-utilised.Universities social dimension: limitations and structural tensionsIn the history of humanity, social values such as justice, public good, social cohesion, freedom, piety and tolerance formed norms and rules shaping the development of society. A process of recognition, dialogue and mutual responsibility has always been a prerequisite of living together, developing customs and behaviours as part of shared awareness and an understanding of ourselves as a 'human social being'. However, some central questions seem to suggest that a deeper reflection is required: what does social responsibility count for? Why do we value it? Furthermore, how is it created, promoted and implemented in society?Universities, in particular, lie in a crucial position in terms of fostering public service in the pursuit of economic, cultural and social progress. They have been historically endowed with two central functions: teaching and formation for professions and researching or the advancement of knowledge. Furthermore, over the centuries, they have occupied a central role in society - adapting to the challenges of different contexts and times. They were "designed to provide higher educational services such as teaching, research, and a host of other academic services to the church, governments, individuals, public, and in the future, perhaps, the world".* 1 The interfaces and development of these different functions or services gave rise to struggles and tensions over contents and implementations as different social, economic and political powers claimed authority over them.Nowadays, nation-states have increasingly become part of borderless interconnected global networks, dominated by neo-capitalist economic and techno-scientific development systems. Social norms, a sense of belonging and forms of civic engagement have been re-shaped and adapted to new environments and changing national contexts. The predominant ethos on economic growth and the relevance of financial markets has led to the endorsement of capitalistic values as well as consumerist and market-oriented principles. As such, central state welfare provision has progressively declined paving the way for increasing private social service procurement. In the early 90s, the Triple Helix model University-Government-Industry2 has been supported and advocated as a model to create partnerships for technology and scientific advancements to stimulate employment and economic growth. A new institutional, managerial, normative and organizational environment was developed, placing research and industry central to competitiveness and innovation. Universities were called upon to specifically serve a 'third mission' constructed around the advancement of the industrial sectors to improve innovation and advance knowledge for market competitiveness.Despite this dominant trend, questions around the centrality of the market over other social and cultural advancements have raised some issues. In particular, the lack of the 'orphan' fourth-Helix model's development - the neglecting of University-Civil society relations in connection with industry and government - has largely undermined the inclusion of a third party civil society in university's activities for national or regional innovation policies. …