The utility model discloses an automatic round tube feeding machine. The automatic round tube feeding machine comprises a frame (1) and a chain conveying mechanism (3) obliquely arranged on the frame (1), a storage tank (2) is arranged on one side of the frame (1), a discharging chute (4) is arranged at a discharging port of the chain conveying mechanism (3), an ejecting mechanism (5) is arranged at the bottom end of the discharging chute (4), a feeding tank (6) for feeding external equipment is arranged above one side, back to the chain conveying mechanism (3), of the ejecting mechanism (5) and is provided with a pushing mechanism (7), and the chain conveying mechanism (3) comprises an annular conveying chain (31) and a plurality of angle blocks (33) used for bearing round tubes (8). The automatic round tube feeding machine has the advantages of high production efficiency, low labor cost, simple integral structure, easiness in fixture processing and manufacturing and the like.


A new isoquinoline-isoquinolone alkaloid was isolated from the root bark of Berberis vulgaris and named berbanine. The structure was established by spectroscopic methods (including 2D NMR, HR-EI-MS).


Cell‐surface binding by natural antibody (NAb) places it well for controlling cell function directly through signalling. Flow cytometry revealed an instability of syngeneic NAb binding to C3H 10T½ fibroblast variants at 37°, which could be partially reduced by H7, an inhibitor of the pivotal signalling serine/threonine kinase, protein kinase C (PKC). Cells coated with purified NAb at 4° followed by a rise in temperature to 37° showed an increase in membrane expression of introduced rat PKC‐β1 and endogenous PKC‐α, in the PKC‐β1‐overexpressing PKC‐4 and v‐H‐ras‐producing I3T2.1, respectively. Tyrosine phosphorylation of membrane‐associated 60 000 MW protein including the tyrosine kinase src was markedly reduced. In addition, both the precoated NAb and numerous membrane molecules ranging from 20 000 to 220 000 MW were released into the supernatant, including the receptor‐like protein tyrosine phosphatase α (RPTP‐α). Furthermore, purified NAb reduced the growth of I3T2.1 cells in culture assessed as a decrease in total cell numbers and an increase in the proportion of cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle. Together, these data argue that the interaction of NAb with cell surface structures initiated a series of intracellular signalling events leading to the release of membrane molecules and over time the suppression of cell proliferation. This process could provide a biological mechanism for direct NAb control of activated cells in both physiological and pathological conditions.


Computing top-k nearest neighbors (kNN) is a fundamental problem in road networks. Existing solutions either need a complicated parameter configuration in index construction or incur high costs when scanning an unbounded number of vertices in query processing. In this paper, we propose a novel parameter-free index-based solution for the kNN query based on the concept of tree decomposition in large road networks. Based on our index structure, we propose an efficient and progressive algorithm that returns each result in a bounded delay. We also optimize the index structure, which improves the efficiency of both index construction and index maintenance in large road networks. We conduct extensive experiments to show the efficiency of our proposed algorithms and the effectiveness of our optimization techniques in real-world road networks from ten regions.


The general objective of this study was to examine the influence of contemporary procurement practices on organizational performance in public tea factories in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design to determine the influence of contemporary procurement practices on organizational performance in public tea factories in Kenya. The researcher targeted procurement managers only from Kenya Tea Development Agency and Nyayo Tea Zones Development Corporation. Stratified random sampling method was applied to come up with the sample size, since the population considered heterogeneous. The questionnaires were used since they were effective data collection instruments that allowed respondents to give much of their opinions in regard to the research problem. The questionnaires consisted of both closed and open ended questions for ease of collecting quantitative and qualitative data. Descriptive and analytical analysis techniques were appropriate for both qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data was grouped and coded to enable processing and tabulation. SPSS software version 24.0 was used to produce frequencies, descriptive and inferential statistics which was used to derive conclusions and generalizations regarding the population. The concepts of lean supply in public tea factories were derived from those of lean generation, with the main focus being on the buyer as well as the effectiveness of the operation. The lean element in public tea factories involved constant improvement and additionally strives to streamline operations inside the supply chain to eliminate waste and also non-value-added pursuits. The study concluded that designing as well as applying a Lean procurement management procedure drastically alters how the tea factory does business. The study recommended that E-Procurement should support the selection phase and also act like a correspondence platform between the tea factories as well as suppliers. It should address the entire tendering procedure from tender development to contracting, typically including support for the evaluation as well as evaluation activities. It should consist of closing the contract with a provider but facilitate a big part of the tactical procurement procedure. Key Words: Green Procurement, Lean Procurement, E-Procurement, Agile Procurement CITATION: Mwaniki, S. N., & Ngugi, P. K. (2019). Contemporary procurement practices and performance of public tea factories in Kenya. The Strategic Journal of Business & Change Management, 6 (4), 542 – 557


The present paper deals with the Chinese genus Neophyllaphis Takahashi, 1920, which includes 2 species, one of them, Neophyllaphis nigrubrunnea is new to science. The key to the Chinese species of this genus is given. The specimens including the types are deposited in the Institute of Zoology, Academia Sinica, Beijing. Key to the Chinese Species of Neophy llaphis Takahashi (Alate viviparous female)1. Third antennal segment shorter than fore tibia, with 12-15 secondary sensoriaNeophyllaphis nigrobrunnea, sp. nov.Third antennal segment equal to fore tibia, with 30- 45 secondary sensoriaNeophyllaphis podacarpi Takahashi1. Neophyllaphis nigrobrunnea Zhang et Zhang, sp. nov. (Fig.1)Alate viviparous female: dark brown in life. In mounted specimen pale. 1st and 2nd antennal segments brown, dorsum of head pale brown, mesonotum brown, marginal sclerites present on abdominal tergites 1 - 7, 8th tergite with pale tranverse band, cornicles pale brown. Veins of fore wings clear. Dorsal hairs of body short, 0.005-0.010 mm. 3rd antennal segment with 1 4-16 secondary sensoria. Rostrum reaching midcoxae, ultimate rostral segment without accessory hairs. Cauda constricted at base, elongate, bearing 16 hairs. Anal plates bilobed, bearing 8-14 hairs. 4 rudimentary gonaphyses, each with 2 hairs.Measurements in mm: length of body 1.459, width 0.61 4 ;antennae 0.838, segments I - VI : 0.004, 0.044, 0.321, 0.120, 0.122, 0.124+0.063;.ultimate rostral segment 0.067; cornicles 0.021 ; cauda 0.118; hind femur 0.273, hind tibia 0.533, 2nd hind tarsal joint 0.067.Holotype: alate viviparous female, No. 7860- 1 - 1 - 4, G uangdong Province: Ledong County, 26- Ⅲ -1984, Zhong Tiesen. Paratypes: 3 alate viviparous females, the others same as above.Based on 3rd antennal segment 0.75 times as long as segments (IV+ V + VI )and secondary sensoria on 3rd segment, this species is sibling to N. araucariae, but cornicles brown (pale in latter); differs from N. totarae Cottier in arrangement of secondary sensoria on 3rd segment.Based on dorsal hairs of short, it is related to N. brimblecombei Carver, 1971, but 3rd segment 2.7 times as long as 4th one (2.9- 3.3) , 1.9 times as 6th one (3.3-3.9), 0.75 times as long as segments (IV+V+VI ) (1.06-1.17); 14-16 secondary sensoria on 3rd segment (39-58 in the latter).


The extrusion process of Mg-10Gd-8Y-1.5Nd-0.5Zr is studied,and the results show that the appropriate deformation temperature range of the alloy becomes narrow with the adding of rare earth elements.The deformation temperature of the alloy has an important effect on the extrusion process of the alloy compared to that of the extrusion ratio.The appropriate deformation temperature of the alloy lies between 310 ~ 330 ℃.


The experiment described here involves the application of demand-limiting equipment in all-electric homes by the Omaha Public Power District and the Department of Energy. Dual control of the demand limiters allowed the customer to select the desired peak demand level, which was maintained by the local logic of the demand controller; the utility could then reduce the level proportionally by transmission of control signals via telephone. A residential demand rate was employed for participants. The results are of interest to electric distribution systems considering direct load control and distributed logic for load control.


Performance analyses of subspace algorithms for cisoid parameter estimation available in the literature are predominantly of statistical nature with a focus on asymptotic-either in the sample size or the SNR-statements. This paper presents a deterministic, finite sample size, and finite-SNR performance analysis of the ESPRIT algorithm and the matrix pencil method. Our results are based, inter alia, on a new upper bound on the condition number of Vandermonde matrices with nodes inside the unit disk. This bound is obtained through a generalization of Hilbert's inequality frequently used in large sieve theory.


Release of different heavy metals from various industries is a significant environmental hazard worldwide. In order to reduce the threat from these chemicals, different treatment methods are needed to make them 21 harmless. This study approaches the problem by examining the effect of gypsum content for immobilization 22 of selenium oxyanions selenite and selenate, and sulphate, with calcium sulphoaluminate belite (CSAB) 23 cement based ettringite binder systems. The study has two experimental sections. In the first section, an 24 industrial filter sludge with high concentrations of selenium and sulphate is immobilized with CSAB and 25 varying amounts of gypsum. The immobilization is efficient and reducing gypsum amount in the hydrating 26 mixture enhances the incorporation of both selenium and sulphate. The binding occurs through 27 encapsulation and incorporation into ettringite and other hydrated phases. In the second section, two 28 reagent grade sodium-selenium salts, sodium selenite and sodium selenate, are mixed with CSAB and 29 varying amounts of gypsum. The immobilization is not effective and ettringite is not formed in large 30 quantities, most likely due to high sodium content in the reacting system. 31


This thesis is dedicated to develop new solar cell architectures based on nanowires produced by a plasma-assisted Vapor Liquid Solid process. By optical modeling, detailed field and absorption profiles in the NW solar cells have been obtained and a 14 mA/cm2 matched photocurrent has been achieved for a-Si:H/µc-Si:H tandem solar cells. An electrical model for radial PN junction NW solar cells has also been developed from first principle rules, allowing a good understanding of the carrier transport. By analyzing step by step the SiNWs growth in a PECVD system we could propose a detailed explanation for the strong evolution of the NW density, morphology and crystallinity during growth. The rare hexagonal phase of Si has been observed in the as grown SiNWs with diameters smaller than 10 nm. For the first of time, we have provided TEM characterizations from [11-20] direction to give a clear proof of the hexagonal Si phase in as grown SiNWs. To develop low band bap, high mobility material for multi junction NW solar cells, we added germane to silane during the plasma-assisted VLS growth process. Ge contents from 0 to 100% have been achieved with Sn, In and Cu catalysts. We have found that above a critical temperature (~ 350 °C), micrometer long cylindrical Ge NWs can be obtained. NW based PIN radial junction solar cells having a-Si:H, a-SiGe:H and µc-Si:H as intrinsic absorber layers have been fabricated. For the SiGeNWs based solar cells, a 6% energy conversion efficiency has been achieved with p-i-n configuration. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of SiGeNWs based photovoltaic device.


To shorten the process of face gears, the grinding-hardening effect experiment of face gears under minimum quantity lubrication(MQL) was carried out. Firstly, the grinding method of face gears was analyzed based on the envelope principle, and the control equation of grinding movement was constructed. Secondly, the distribution ratio equation of heat flux density was established, and the theoretical calculation formula of triangle heat source was derived. Thirdly, since a MATLAB calculation program was compiled, the temperature change law under MQL grinding was analyzed. In the end, the influence of grinding parameters on the grinding-hardening layer depth was analyzed. The results demonstrate that MQL grinding achieves the grinding-hardening effect.


If the aqueous vapour consistence is too high(>0.7%),it is very disadvantageous to the sintered products in the nitriding furnace,when silcon nitride bonded silicon carbide products are synthesized by nitridation of silicon.


urban descriptions of a rural ideal exemplify the symbiosis between the city and country. Among other issues, this chapter addresses the clear association in this period between owning a house and land in the country with nobility. For aspirational non-noble urban elites, a country house had the association of otium, that is, well-earned rest from city business and urban politics. This seigneurial countryside, as De Rock points out, was especially attractive to ambitious abbots, noble born bishops, ducal officers, and successful merchants—just the sorts of people who bought pictures. Chapter 5, "Towards an Identifiable City," describes the development of modern chorography from predominantly religious panel painting of the fifteenth century to the secular and mostly printed city portraits of the sixteenth.


ABSTRACT Nowadays, both in the transforming economies (such as Poland and Hungary) and in the developing economies (such as Turkey) of Europe, the most popular policy concepts seem to be deregulation, liberalization, privatization, and internationalization. In this study, we look into these seemingly comparable government policies and ask whether similar attempts, on the part of the governments, to move towards more market-oriented distribution systems, will produce further and sustainable similarities in their now diverse retail structures. Some resemblance, such as the recent appearance of the same new international actors in these markets, is obvious and, in fact, points to a larger convergence including countries such as Portugal and Greece as well. However, there are also more subtle similarities and differences. Here we provide some critical observations and thoughts concerning the convergence discussion, and partially answer the question as to whether we have already started to observe a real and s...


Electrochemical control and the use of electrodeposition in the design of dynamic plasmonics have attracted much attention in recent years.1 Development of dynamic plasmonic metamaterials is attractive for many applications such as molecular sensing and analysis, environmental monitoring, photo-catalysis, colour changing displays and electrochromic devices such as 'smart' windows. Electrodeposition is one of the most attractive ways to create and reversibly transform nanostructures' shape, size and chemical composition.2,3

 Plasmonics is related to the localised surface excitations of electrons in metal nanostructures due to strong interactions with light. The resulted electric field enhancement due to the surface plasmons can be used to manipulate light–matter. Nanostructured Ag and Au are classic plasmonic materials. While silver is a metal that exhibits many advantages over gold, such as higher extinction coefficients in the blue and UV region of the EM spectrum, sharper extinction bands and extremely high field enhancements, its employment is hindered by low chemical stability. The most recent theoretical analysis suggests that Au-Ag derived nanostructures with controlled geometry, composition, and distribution can create new interesting optical phenomena.4 By developing Au-Ag based nanostructures, we can then benefit from combining optical properties of Au and Ag and, at the same time, improve the chemical stability of silver.
 We investigated the electrodeposition of Au and Ag-based arrays of ordered and random nano-particles on indium tin oxide substrates from different solutions and studied their optical properties. We demonstrated that varying the electrodeposition parameters led to changes in both the resonance wavelength and the strength of resonance linked to the structural characteristics (size and shape) and the chemical composition of the deposited particles. Exploration of the dynamic reversible changes via electrodeposition will be presented.

 References:

 Y. Jin, L. Zhou, J. Liang, and J. Zhu, Adv. Photon., 3(4), 044002 (2021).

 G. Wang, X. Chen, S. Liu, C. Wong, S. Chu, ACS Nano, 10 (2), 1788–1794, (2016)

 C. J. Barile, D. J. Slotcavage, J. Hou, M. T. Strand, T. S. Hernandez, M. D. McGehee, Joule 1 (1), 133-145 (2017)

 G. Guisbiers, R. Mendoza-Cruz, L. Bazan-Diaz, J. J. Velazquez-Salazar, R. Mendoza-Perez, J. A. Robledo-Torres, J. L. Rodriguez-Lopez, J. M. Montejano-Carrizales, R. L. Whetten, Jose-Yacaman, M. ACS Nano, 10(1), 188-198, (2016)


A research has been done about urinalysis profile on patient hypertension inpatient and outpatient at Labuang Baji Hospital was performed. The aim of this research was to determine urinalysis profile on hypertension patient. This research is an descriptive study with cross sectional method with total amount of sample was 30 samples. The research result showed that hypertension patient who have hypertension grade 1 found on 23 (76.7%) people and there were 7 (23.3%) people who have hypertension grade II with urinalysis profile as the following, the most numerous age groups were 46-50 years old (50.0%), where females (66.7%) most numerous than males (33.3%) and the most numerous hypertension grade I found on inpatient (84.2%) than the outpatient (63.6%) and most numerous hypertension grade II found on inpatient (36.4%) than outpatient (15.8%). Urinalysis profile in hypertension grade I almost same with hypertension grade II but there was difference profile in hypertension grade II such as protein, ascorbic  acid increase compared hypertension grade I. Key words: Urinalysis, hypertension, glucose, protein, ascorbic acid


In order to increase the solubility of ethanol in diesel, it is necessary to introduce an additive which improves the solubility in a more stable way, especially in low temperatures and when exposed to the air humidity. Theses additives, which function is to stop the phase separation, act as cosolvents in ethanol−diesel blends. In the present work, the authors present the physical and chemical principles under which the cosolvent material acts. Additionally, they propose and evaluate the additives SPAN80 and AEP-102 as promoters of the blends of diesel fuel with 8% anhydrous ethanol, determinating quantitatively the concentration of water admissible.


PURPOSE: An insulating device for a pipe is provided to improve the insulation property of pipes by preventing the generation of thermal notches while constructing an insulating device including an elbow portion or a T-joint portion. CONSTITUTION: An insulating device(10) for a pipe comprises a insulating unit(11) for an elbow, a T-joint insulating unit(12), an insulating unit(13) for a straight pipe(23), and an insulating unit(14) for a flange. The insulating unit for an elbow is installed on the exterior surface of the elbow portion of pipes. The division lines of insulating units are located closely and across each other and the division lines of insulating units of the insulating unit for the straight pipe are arranged in horizontal direction.


A study of suburban backyards and backyarders in Sydney and Wollongong revealed evidence of attitudes and behaviours in relation to trees. Attitudes are characterised under themes that indicate conditions of tolerance and belonging. They include attachment/risk, order/freedom and nativeness/alienness. While love is common, high levels of suspicion and intolerance towards trees in the suburban context are more common. Our findings confirm and throw further light on previous work indicating that many Australians have very partitioned views of the world in relation to where humans and nonhuman lifeforms belong. This partitioning must be understood in concep- tual as well as spatial terms.


The invention which relates to the communication field provides a distributed network management collection system and comprises a collector management device and a collector; wherein, the collector management device is used for receiving routing information and network element information sent by the collector and informing the collector to manage the network elements in the management ranges of the collector; the collector manages the network elements according to the management ranges determined by the collector management device and realizes the method and related devices of the distributed network management collection system. The invention reduces the workload of network configuration and can adapt to changes automatically when the network extends or changes, so as to greatly reduce the workload of manual intervention; at the same time, the invention can manage networks with a plurality of network element nodes through a network management system by providing unified network management access inlets.


Among the spectrum of DNA lesions induced by ionizing radiation, the Double Strand Breaks (DSB) are generally recognized as the type of DNA damage more directly related to cell killing. Nowadays, the γH2AX assay represents one of the methods of choice for the study of DSB induction and processing [1]. The method is based on the phosphorylation of histone H2AX in presence of a DSB. Importantly, the phosphorylation extends over a large chromatin region in the order of the Mbp, reaching its maximum in about 30-60 min after irradiation, and then slowly decaying as the damage is processed [2]. The phoshorylated molecules can be tagged with a fluorescent antibody, giving rise to the so-called γH2AX foci, which can then be observed and/or analyzed with different techniques. Consequently, γH2AX foci are considered as a marker for DSB presence. The Giant LOop Binary LEsion (GLOBLE) model is a radiobiological model developed in order to predict biological effects resulting from photon irradiation [3]. The cell nucleus where the genome is stored is identified with the critical target. The assumption is made, that the higher-order chromatin organization can be described by means of Giant Loop structures, each one involving about 2 Mbp of genome [4]. The simulated nucleus is thus divided into cubic domains of about 500 nm edge length resembling the DNA organization into loop structures. For a given dose, DSB are distributed among nuclear domains, assuming that the level of DSB clustering at the micrometre scale defines the severity of the induced damage.


In this paper, we propose a physical layer security (PLS) scheme based on superposition modulation for water-to-air (W2A) visible light communication (VLC). We characterize the high correlation between W2A and air-to-water (A2W) link gains from ray tracing simulation and experiments. The proposed scheme selects the modulation order and superposition parameter based on the high correlation between the W2A and A2W link gains. The scheme performance is studied by exploring its immunity against different types of attacks. Based on the link gains from real measurements, it is shown that under random attack Eve's SER exceeds 0.77 when Eve's signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) varies from 5 dB to 30 dB, and under correlated attack Eve's SER decreases only for a high correlation coefficient when Eve is close enough to Bob, which is unrealistic for eavesdropping. In addition, the entropy of potential set under post-processing attack is derived. For intelligent attack, two unsupervised algorithms, namely K-means clustering and expectation maximization (EM) algorithm, are adopted for modulation identification. The distributions of Eve' SER under all four attacks are investigated based on the measured link gains in the laboratory environment, which demonstrates that intelligent attack with K-means clustering possesses the highest eavesdropping capability. However, more numerical results show that for intelligent attack with K-means clustering under wavy water surface, the proportion of the case where Eve has a higher SER than Bob is lower than 0.5 only when Eve lies between Alice and Bob with small horizontal distance, which is unrealistic for eavesdropping operation.


ABSTRACT THIS paper describes the thermal performance of a solar heating system designed to be retrofitted to existing poultry houses. A flat plate collector 187 m2 (2010 ft2) in area and 180 t (200 tons) of rock storage supplied heated air to an 8000 bird broiler house. The solar heating system provided from 42 to 72% of the auxiliary heat required for birds brooded in January, and as high as 100% in warmer seasons. Efficiency of the system computed for 56 day brooding periods ranged up to 28.5%. Live weight and feed conversion of the birds from the solar house were significantly better than those from comparison flocks.


Background Prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is a simple parameter which reflects patient's nutritional and inflammatory status and reported as a prognostic factor for renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Studies were included from database inception until February 2, 2022. The aim of this study is to evaluate prognostic value of PNI by meta-analysis of the diagnostic test accuracy in RCC. Methods and findings Studies were retrieved from PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases and assessed sensitivity, specificity, summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) and area under curve (AUC). Totally, we identified 11 studies with a total of 7,296 patients were included to evaluate the prognostic value of PNI in RCC finally. They indicated a pooled sensitivity of 0.733 (95% CI, 0.651–0.802), specificity of 0.615 (95% CI, 0.528–0.695), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of 4.382 (95% CI, 3.148–6.101) and AUC of 0.72 (95% CI, 0.68–0.76). Heterogeneity was significant and univariate meta-regression revealed that metastasis and cut-off value of PNI might be the potential source of heterogeneity. Multivariate meta-regression analysis also demonstrated that metastasis might be the source of heterogeneity. Conclusions PNI demonstrated a good diagnostic accuracy as a prognostic factor for RCC and especially in case of metastatic RCC.


The invention relates to a method for non-invasive characterization of embedded microstructures that are hidden up to 100 microns below the surface of a wafer. The microstructures are identified by their specific ellipsometric parameters with reference microstructures from a previously generated reference library.


Residual energy or thermal coupling coefficient shows what fraction of laser pulse energy is spent for target heating. High residual energy rates lead to low impact efficiency and sometimes to unwanted effects like phase transitions and chemical reactions. Experimental works on its measurement under nano- and femtosecond laser irradiation are not numerous but still can be found, while picosecond range is poorly studied. The latter is interesting since thermal coupling effects are close to ultrashort impact, while lasers efficiency, complexity, and price are closer to nanosecond devices. We used a calorimeter to evaluate heat flux through a target for focused and non-focused irradiation. Our data obtained for aluminum irradiated at 1064 nm, 71 ps, 15 Hz show higher residual energy rates than could be found in published sources: 2.5-3 times higher than calculated for 100 ps, ca. 1.25-fold higher than experimental evaluation for nano- and femtosecond impact. We assume that the difference may be due to a change in the actual absorptivity of the target upon repeated impact, the spatial shape of the beam (homogeneous or Gaussian), and the experimental methods used (target temperature or through the heat flux). The results obtained are highly novel and important for correct modeling of thermal coupling and adequate transition from laboratory to real systems using repetitively pulsed picosecond impacts.


A novel single-channel color image encryption technique based on joint fractional Fourier transform correlator(JFRTC) and phase retrieval algorithm (PRA) is proposed. The target color image is decomposed into three red, green, blue (RGB) components. A joint image is formed and encoded into two random phase masks (RPM) iteratively. The security of the system is enhanced because of the fractional order as a new added key. The system and the operation procedure are simplified. Simulation experiments show that the algorithm converges rapidly and has great design flexibility. The decryption can be realized by digital or optical methods.


The use in genocidal propaganda of a modified 'Hamitic Hypothesis' (the assertion that African 'civilisation' was due to racially distinct Caucasoid invaders from the north/north-east of Africa) has become a key feature of commentary on the 1994 Rwandan genocide. In order to historicise the Hypothesis, the article first traces the transformation by European anthropology of the 'Hamite' in to a racial object and how the extraneous provenance of 'the Tutsi' was articulated in colonial Rwanda. The article then critically assesses the centrality of the Hypothesis in constructing the Tutsi population as a target of genocide. Finally, the article explores both the inadvertent and explicit ways in which contemporary commentary reiterates aspects of the 'Hamitic assemblage'.


To evaluate the values of ST-T changes in differentiating narrow QRS complex tachycardia, SPSS was used to analyze the ST-T changes in 12-lead electrocardiograms of 124 narrow QRS complex tachycardias, of them 72 atrioventricular reentrant tachycardias(AVRT) and 52 atrioventricular node reentrant tachycardias(AVNRT). Results: ST segment depress in lead Ⅰ-aVL in AVRT (0.10±0.07 mV ) was greater than in AVNRT ( 0.06±0.06 mV ) ( P= 0.002 ). The magnitude of T wave in lead V 1 in AVRT (0.14±0.19 mV ) was greater than in AVNRT ( 0.01±0.13 mV ) ( P0.001 ) .The predictors in differentiating narrow QRS complex tachycardia were the changes at the end of QRS (R 2=0.604, P0.001), the direction of T wave in lead V 1 (R 2=0.249, P0.001), the magnitude of T wave in lead V 1 (R 2=0.180, P0.001), and the ST segment depress in lead Ⅰ-aVL (R 2=0.043, P0.001). The specificity of positive changes at the end of QRS predicting AVNRT was 98.6%, and the sensitivity was 75.0%. The specificity of positive T wave in lead V 1 predicting AVRT was 67.3%, and the sensitivity was 81.9%. Conclusions: ST-T changes are helpful in differentiating narrow QRS complex tachycardia. The changes at the end of QRS complex is a strong predictor; while the direction and the magnitude of T-wave in lead V 1, and the ST segment depression in lead Ⅰ-aVL are the weak predictors.


Ultrasonic absorption at radio frequencies, complex dielectric permittivities at microwave frequencies, electrical conductances, and infrared spectra of solutions of LiSCN and LiClO/sub 4/ in dimethoxymethane are reported. The conductance data, analyzed in the concentration range 7 X 10/sup 14/ to 10/sup -2/ M, indicate that the major species are neutral pairs of ions although a significant amount of triple ions are present. Band analysis of the ir spectra of solutions with concentrations equal and above 0.05 M reveal the presence of three major species, ion-pairs quadrupoles and chains, the latter with Li/sup +/ bound also to the S-end of the SCN ion. The dielectric spectra indicate that there are three dipolar species present, the solvent and two solute species, in accord with information from the ir spectra. Alternate analysis of the dielectric spectra in terms of a Cole-Davidson distribution does not seem to be consistent with the ir findings. Consequently a possible theoretical interpretation of the Cole-Davidson spectrum (based on our earlier proposed mechanism of collisional diffusion and rotation of ion pairs) is considered as unlikely to be relevant. The same applies to recent improvements on our proposal based on a three-dimensional diffusion model. With the aid of the structuralmore » information above, the ultrasonic spectra at c approx. 0.1 M for both LiSCN and LiClO/sub 4/ are interpreted as due to an ion-pair-quadrupole equilibrium involving cation desolvation. At higher concentrations a new relaxation process centered at approx. 10 MHz appears.« less


The research project presented here is based on the findings obtained by the eight members attached to the Project 3 of Includ-ED: Strategies for Inclusion and Social Cohesion in Europe from Education, 2006-2011 (Integrated Project of the 6th European Union's Framework Programme for Research). The main objective of the Research Project 3 has been to study how educative inclusion/exclusion influences different areas of society (such as employment, health, housing, and political participation) and to determine what kind of education contributes to overcome inequalities. In order to obtain the information, we have used both quantitative (analysis of statistical data from European databases) and qualitative (interviews) techniques. The Critical Communicative Methodology has been used, paying special attention to vulnerable social groups How to reference this article: Vrecer, Natalija, Petra Javrh y Marta Capllonch, "Impacto de la exclusion  educativa en ambitos sociales", Revista Educacion y Pedagogia, Medellin, Universidad de Antioquia, Facultad de Educacion, vol. 22, num. 56, enero- abril, 2010, pp. 45-55. Received: january 2010 Accepted: marz 2010


Introduction Multi-layer photonic integrated circuits offer the prospect of both enhanced connectivity, and new component-level functionality. Epitaxially-grown, verticallystacked waveguide cores also enable high-precision and close-proximity layers for advanced mode engineering. Dual layer, dual width waveguides have been proposed to enable a new class of dispersive InP integrated photonic circuits [1]. These waveguides are designed to exhibit giant group velocity dispersion (GVD), which is a phenomena of enhanced dispersion around a geometrically determined resonance wavelength [2]. The waveguide dispersion of the dual layer waveguides is predicted to be an order of magnitude larger than the material dispersion [1]. Furthermore, the waveguides offer the ability to engineer both the magnitude and sign of the dispersion. These dispersive waveguides are also designed to be fully backwards compatible with existing singlelayer active and passive components in our institutes InP photonic integration platform [3]. These qualities should enable a wide range of dispersive circuit to be realized as single chip systems. Examples of such potential circuits include chirped pulse amplifiers [4], all optical oscilloscopes [5], and radio beam steering devices [6]. Here we report on the experimental demonstration of a new class of super-mode converters suitable to excite giant dispersion waveguides. We report on the design and fabrication of the super-mode converters, and evaluate them across a wavelength range from 1500 nm to 1600 nm by imaging of the optical field at the output facet.


This Special Issue of Algorithms presents recent advances in the area of graphs and networks, focusing particularly on optimisation problems and their associated algorithms [...]


p-Chloranil (2,3,5,6-tetrachloro-2,5-cyclohexadiene-1,4-dione; tetrachloro-1,4-benzoquinone) has been observed as an oxidation product in processes used to oxidize pentachlorophenol (PCP), has known biocidal properties, and has been implicated in genotoxic effects associated with PCP. Chloranil undergoes displacement of chloride by hydroxide under highly alkaline conditions, but no previous work on chloranil decomposition has been conducted at environmentally relevant pH. Electrospray mass spectrometry was used in this study to confirm the two-step hydrolysis of chloranil to yield chloranilic acid (2,5-dichloro-3,6-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoquinone), and the kinetics of each step were quantified as a function of pH. The half-life of chloranil at pH 7 is estimated to be slightly over 1 h, while that of its first hydrolysis product (trichlorohydroxyquinone) is about 21 d. Chloranil also reacts with hydrogen peroxide in a pH-dependent manner at rates substantially greater than the rate of spontaneous hydrolysis. The low yield of chloranilic acid from this reaction suggests that other, as yet unidentified, products are formed. Chloranilic acid has lower acute toxicity (as measured in the Microtox screening assay) than does chloranil, so that promoting the accelerated hydrolysis of chloranil may be advantageous in waste treatment or remediation processes in which it is formed.


This study evaluates the ability of a first-order approximation to describe the decay of nonequilibrium potential and hydraulic conductivity during lateral redistribution of water after a preferential infiltration event. Lateral redistribution experiments are performed numerically on isotropic and anisotropic stochastic soils, using the finite element method. In each case, the moisture is initially located in larger pores and slowly moves into smaller pores due to capillary pressure gradients. Predictions of the first-order approximation are compared to those of detailed simulations. The approximation replicates the trends of the detailed simulations very well, without parameter adjustment, but may overestimate preferential flow effects when disequilibrium is strongest. Its simplicity makes the first-order approximation valuable for the development of upscaled equations.


Chapter 1 Preface Chapter 2 Acknowledgments Chapter 3 Introduction Chapter 4 The Scope of International Law: A Definition and Treaties Discussion Questions Chapter 5 U.S. Foreign Policy: Discussion Questions Chapter 6 Terrorism, Foreign Policy, and Law: Introduction Conclusion Discussion Questions Chapter 7 International Criminal Tribunals: Discussion Questions Chapter 8 The Human Environment and Climate Change: Introduction Conclusion Discussion Questions Chapter 9 Anti-Personnel Land Mines: Unilateralism Prevails: Discussion Questions Chapter 10 Arms Control and Disarmament: Discussion Questions Chapter 11 The Middle East Peace Process: Discussion Questions Chapter 12 The Iraq Crisis of 2002-2004: Legal and Political Issues: Discussion Questions Chapter 13 Conclusion: Discussion Questions Chapter 14 Addendum: The Private Citizen and the Formulation of Public Policy


We investigate the growth of vertically standing [100] zincblende InP nanowire (NW) arrays on InP (100) substrates in the vapor-liquid-solid growth mode using low-pressure metal-organic vapor-phase epitaxy. Precise positioning of these NWs is demonstrated by electron beam lithography. The vertical NW yield can be controlled by different parameters. A maximum yield of 56% is obtained and the tapering caused by lateral growth can be prevented by in situ HCl etching. Scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and micro-photoluminescence have been used to investigate the NW properties.


It comprises a mask body (12), and the harness (14) attached to the mask body (12), a filtering face-piece respirator (10). Mask body (12) includes a molding layer (20), the filtering structure that includes a filtration layer (32) and (22), the. Filtering structure (22) also comprises an outer cover web (36b) including meltblown fibers and staple fibers colored. The use of meltblown fibers and staple fibers colored in the outer cover web, colored with spots, i.e., to provide a breathing mask with an appearance color is not visible uniformly over the outer cover web of the outer surface. .FIELD 1


The thermo acoustic parameters like internal pressure (Пi), absorption coefficient or attenuation coefficient (α), free volume (Vf), Rao's constant (R) and Wada's constant (W) have been calculated using the experimentally measured values such as ultrasonic velocity, density and viscosity of aqueous dextran solution of different concentrations at five different temperatures ranging from 303K- 323K at 1MHz frequency. The variation of these parameters with respect to concentration and temperature have been studied which throw light into the structural rearrangement of solute (dextran) and solvent (distilled water) in aqueous solution.


Abstract: This research work analyzed venture capitalization and wealth allocation, the experience of piggery entrepreneurs in Abia State, Nigeria. The s p cific objectives analyzed included the examinatio of the socio-economic characteristics of piggery entre preneurs; source of venture capital, analyses of entrepreneur's wealth status, estimation of the fac tors affecting wealth allocation, analysis of the determinants of venture capital and also, to ascert ain the relationship between wealth allocation and  venture capitalization of piggery entrepreneurs. Da ta collections were carried out through a simple ra ndom sampling technique and forty (40) piggery operators were chosen from the sample frame. The means of information sourcing was via well-structured questi onnaire and oral interview. The analytical techniqu es were achieved via descriptive statistics, correlati on modeling and multiple regression. The result obt ained showed that majority of the piggery entrepreneurs w ere young, married and had household size ranging from 6-10 person with business experience of 11-20 years. Source of venture capital was mainly formal source. Firm size, access to credit value of stock and amount of equity shares were significant factor s affecting wealth allocation. The major determinants of venture capitalization included personal saving s, value of assets and availability of financial insti tu ion issuing the venture capital. There was a str ong positive relationship between wealth allocation and venture capitalization. Entrepreneurs wealth statu s is high relevant in venture capitalization. Thus, it i s recommended that piggery entrepreneurs should giv e attention to attention to building up adequate pers onal savings, enhance stock value and a strengthene d linkage with capable financial institutions, with t e essence that these would imbue better wealth all ocation and venture capitalization capacity.


OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical efficiency of recombinant adenovirus p53 injection (rAd-p53) combining chemotherapy in the treatment of malignant body cavity effusion. METHODS: 50 cases with malignant body cavity effusion were randomly divided into 2 groups. The treatment group were given intracavitary administration of rAd-p53 1 × 1012VP after puncture drainage, 48h later which were given intracavitary administration of 60mg/m2 cisplatin once a week for 3~4 weeks. The control group was given the same intracavitary therapy as the treatment group but without rAd-p53 therapy. RESULTS: The total effective rates of the treatment group and the control group were 85.7% and 51.7%(P0.05), respe_ctively. The toxic reaction was chiefly manifested as self-limited fever and which disappeared automatically in 12~24h. CONCLUSION: It is safe and effective to use rAd-p53 in the treatment of malignant body cavity effusion.


* Selma Smajlović, PhD., Senior Teaching Assisent, (corresponding author), University of Tuzla, Faculty of Economics, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Univerzitetska 8, BiH 75000 Tuzla, Phone: +387 35 320 820, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com ** Bahrija Umihanić, Ph.D., Full Professor, University of Tuzla, Faculty of Economics, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Univerzitetska 8, BiH 75000 Tuzla, Phone: +387 35 320 820, E-mail: email@example.com *** ̋Lejla Turulja, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, School of Economics and Business Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Trg oslobodjenja – Alija Izetbegovic 1, Phone: +387 33 275 970; E-mail: email@example.com Abstract. This study aims to clarify the relation between technological innovation and business model innovation and their shared impact on the business success of medium and large enterprises. Drawing on the ResourceBased View, this paper offers a comprehensive research model that analyses the relationships between technological innovation and business model innovations and their impact on business success. Structural Equation Modelling is utilized for the analysis of a dataset collected in a Southeast European developing country among medium and large enterprises. The results show that technological innovation has a positive influence on business model innovation and that business model innovation positively impacts the success of a business. Finally, the results confirm the mediating role of business model innovation between technological innovation and company business success. This research adds to the existing literature by empirically investigating the relationship between technological innovation, business model innovation, and company success identifying an antecedent role in the relationship between technological innovation and business model innovation.


This study assesses the level of natural radioactivity due to radionuclides, U, Th and K, in 16 soil samples collected from 16 locations in Akure township, Ondo State, Nigeria. The activity concentrations of U, Th and K varied from 0.15 to 4.41 Bq kg, 4.21 to 9.92 Bq kg, and 167.79 to 419.52 Bq kg, respectively, with mean values of 1.29±1.39 Bq kg, 6.98±1.82 Bq kg and 278.16±69.40 Bq kg respectively, measured from all the soil samples studied. The mean total absorbed dose rate was obtained and the value is 16.89 nGy.h . This average calculated absorbed dose rate in air was found to be much lower than the world average of 57 nGy h. The outdoor annual effective dose equivalent ranged from 12.82 to 30.25 μSv.y with mean of 20.71 μSv y. This is considered to be low when compared to natural external radiation of about 2000 μSvy to which no harmful effect is expected directly. Index Terms – Naturally occurring radioactive materials, Soil samples, Gamma-ray spectrometry, U, Th and K, Natural radiation dose, Annual effective dose equivalent, Absorbed dose rate. ——————————  ——————————


We are becoming more and more dependent upon a broad range of more or less ubiquitous communication technologies, and these are increasingly integrated with our PCs. The more connected we become, the more important it is that we pro-actively manage our communication patterns. If not, we risk being forced to either temporarily disconnecting ourselves from communicating, or spend all our time trying to catch up with the demand for communication. None of these two scenarios are desirable. The aim of this paper is to investigate how people manage communication patterns as an integral part of their daily work. Empirical investigation of complex work in a Swedish pharmaceutical company showed a variety of means for managing communication patterns. Based on the fieldwork we present SwitchIT, an application for pro-actively managing communication modes, and discuss the theoretical implications of applying the concepts of communication overflow and communication deficiency to describe communication patterns. It is concluded that there is a need for collaborative technology supporting the negotiation of communication.


A novel electrode power profiler for dimmable ballasts using a series-resonant parallel-loaded inverter is presented. Dimming of fluorescent lamps and control of the electrode power are achieved by simultaneously adjusting the DC link voltage and the switching frequency of the inverter. The current gradient along the electrode, which is due to the distributed lamp current property on the electrode, is deliberated in formulating the power and voltage models of the electrode. As the electrode heating relies on two near-orthogonal current components including the lamp current and the resonant tank circuit current, a simple feedback control is developed to derive the electrode power. Reduction of the electrode power (due to the decrease in the lamp current) during dimming is compensated by increasing the switching frequency of the inverter, in order to increase the resonant tank circuit current. Experimental results of a T8 36 W prototype are verified with theoretical predictions.


It is an important step to identify salt tolerance in plant salt tolerant molecular breeding. The cultivar M82 was used as material, experiment including 4 concentration levels of salt stress were carried out in incubator by medium culti- vation. Germination rate and germination index were investigated. The results showed that percentage of germination was not significanfly related to salt concentration of stress, so it was not a reliable quantitative index in salt tolerant identifica- tion; germination index was significantly related to salt concentration at P 0.01 level, and could be useful index for screening of salt tolerance in processing tomato. Moreover, it also found that 50 mmol/L NaCl concentration has no effect on processing tomato germination in this experiment; the critical concentration of NaCl concentration for germination screening of salt tolerance was 150 mmol/L in processing tomato.


An algorithm to distinguish brick walls, picket fences and hedges based on backscattered sonar echoes is described. The echo data are acquired by a mobile robot with a 50kHz computer‐controlled sonar scanning system packaged as its sensor head. For several locations along a wall, fence or hedge a fan of backscatter sonar echoes are acquired and digitized as the sonar transducer is swept over a horizontal arc. Backscatter is then plotted vs. scan angle, with a series deformable templates fit to this data. The number of peaks in the best‐fitting template indicates the presence and location of retro‐reflectors, and allows automatic categorization of the various fences, hedges and brick walls.


Multilayered Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3/Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 thin films with different deposition sequences were deposited on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates by chemical solution deposition method. Obvious dielectric enhancement occurred in Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3/Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 multilayered thin films due to Maxwell-Wagner affect, but not happened in Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3/Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3 multilayered thin films because of the different interface quality caused by different deposition sequences. The dielectric constant and tunability of Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3/Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 multilayered thin films at 200 kHz (590 and 46%, respectively) were higher than that of Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3 and Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 monolayer thin films (470, 32% and 430, 29%, respectively). Besides, the dielectric loss tangent of Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3/Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 multilayered thin films (0.025) was lower than that of Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3 and Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 monolayer thin films (0.033, 0.052, respectively). Comparing with that of Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3 and Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 monolayer thin films, the dielectric properties of Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3/Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 multilayered thin films had certain of improvement, which is of benefit to applications in tunable microwave devices.


The article describes an analytical light distribution model in the optical system of a scintillation detector. The model can be useful for scintillation detector development since it allows to make quick calculations with different parameters. Comparison of the analytical model and Geant4 calculation results has been done. The comparison of the analytical model calculation results and experimental measurements have been done. Both comparisons show model validity and a capability to be used in the research.


Ultra-thin silicon nitride films grown by exposure of Si(111) substrates to a flux of atomic nitrogen at temperatures between 700 °C and 1050 °C have been investigated by means of X-ray spectromicroscopy, atomic force microscopy, X-ray reflectivity, and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy. The films show a Si3N4 stoichiometry. For reactive nitride growth at temperatures below 800 °C, a smooth surface and interface morphology is found. Higher temperatures lead to the formation of rough films with holes and grooves of increasing size, approaching a lateral size of several hundred nanometers for growth temperatures above 900 °C. Nonetheless, X-ray spectromicroscopy shows that the bottom of the holes consists of Si3N4.


This paper summarizes the reduced ultimate strength of the compression flange of plate girders containing initial deflection. The major findings are as follows: There is no interrelation between the maximum initial deflection and plate dimension such as width, thickness or width‐thickness ratio of the flange. The slenderness parameter of plate, R, a function of the widththickness ratio, and the aspect ratio, are the two factors reducing the ultimate strength. The ultimate strength is minimum with the aspect ratio in the range of 2 to 3. However, the reducing effect does not increase when the aspect ratio is beyond 3. Among the three initial deflection modes—plate bending, cylindrical bending and simple twisting, the simple twisting has the least effect. R=0.9 is the most sensitive value to the initial deflection in reducing the ultimate strength. A procedure has been established to obtain expected and theoretical ultimate strength by a probability density function through Weibull distribution or Gamma dis...


Railway timetables define routes, orders and timings for all trains running in the network. Usually, timetables provide good connectivity between different train services for a number of origins and destinations. For each pair of connected train services, the waiting train is scheduled to depart sufficiently later with respect to its feeder train in order to allow the movement of passengers from one train to the other. During operations, train traffic can be seriously disturbed by delays, accidents or technical problems. Major disturbances cause primary delays that propagate as consecutive delays to other trains in the network, thus requiring short-term adjustments to the timetable in order to limit delay propagation. This real-time problem is known as Conflict Detection and Resolution (CDR). Keeping transfer connections when solving the CDR problem increases delay propagation (Vromans, 2005), therefore one of the possible dispatching countermeasures to handle disturbances is the cancellation of some scheduled connections. This action reduces the overall train delays but has a negative impact on passenger satisfaction for the transferring passengers affected by missed connections. Train operating companies are therefore interested in keeping as many connections as possible even in the presence of disturbed traffic conditions, while infrastructure managers are mainly interested in limiting train delays. In fact, infrastructure managers discuss with train operating companies on which connections must be kept when regulating railway traffic. To support this negotiation process, this paper deals with a Bi-objective Conflict Detection and Resolution (BCDR) problem (Corman et al, 2010), i.e., the problem of finding a set of feasible schedules with a good trade-off between the minimization of train delays and the maximization of respected transfer connections. The BCDR problem is closely related to the Delay Management (DM) problem introduced by Schobel (2001). The latter problem adopts a passenger point of view, and aims at the minimization of the sum of all delays over all passengers at their final destination. In this paper we choose a train point of view, i.e., the minimization of train delays at all relevant


LetAbe a simpleC*-algebra of real rank zero and stable rank one. We show that, for any normal elementx∈Awithλ−x∈Inv0(A)forallλ∉sp(x)there is a sequence of normal elementsxn∈Awith finite spectra such thatx=limn→∞xn.We show this for more generalC*-algebras. We also point out that the condition thatAis simple cannot be removed


In the market that enterprise''s management environment changes fast, the application of the information system becomes one of the important keys to improve enterprise''s competitiveness. Especially the constant requisition for immediate transparency of information in the recent years, make the manufacturing execution system (MES) play an extremely important role. MES is extensively applied in the production lines in order to improve production efficiency and get clear production information in the TFT-LCD (Thin Film Transistor-Liquid Crystal Display) industry. Using high speed technology of the computer system, it is easy to collect the information of production and monitor the factory automation and track the on-line status of work in process (WIP). This thesis uses case study way to consider the relative problems of module factory in the TFT-LCD company. According to the actual request of manufacturing, this thesis diagnoses and analyzes the production questions after using MES system in module production lines. The thesis proposes the improvement plans and compares the benefit differences of before and after improvement actions in order to shorten man-hour, save manpower, reduce produce losses and improve the production yield.


ABSTRACT DESIGN techniques and considerations for signal conditioning of digital inputs to microcomputers or digital outputs from microcomputers are described. Topics covered include sensing on or off states of low and high voltage ac and dc devices, reading switch closures, contact debouncing, outputs to low current devices such as LED's, solid-state relays, or alarms, and outputs to high current devices such as solenoid valves, motors, and electrical strip heaters. Transient reduction, isolation and latching are also described.


We introduce a sectoral defect into a disk ( creating a Pac-Man ™ -shaped plate ) to investigate effect of the symmetry breaking of a perfect disk on vortex dynamics. The sectoral defect acts as a preferential gateway for vortices to enter the disk. Vortices tend to form a symmetric con fi guration with respect to the mirror-symmetry line under various different applied magnetic fi elds. We found that the vortex con fi guration of the Pac-Man ™ -shaped disk exhibits an exotic arc structure, in contrast to the well-known shell structure of a disk. A characteristic of the vortex con fi guration is the critical number of vortices ( or ' magic number ' ) at which the single-arc structure becomes a multiple-arc structure, which can be tuned by changing the opening angle of the sectoral defect. We also noticed by comparing the free energies of the vortex distributions, that there are several competing metastable states with the same number of vortices when the ratio of the number of vortices in the outer arc to the number in the inner arc approaches two, for which stable triangular clusters might form part of the con fi gurations. We conclude that there are reasonable agreements between the Ginzburg – Landau calculations and experimental scanning SQUID microscope images of vortices in de facto mesoscopic Pac-Man ™ -shaped Mo 80 Ge 20 thin disks.


Within the study of Iranian languages, it has always been perplexing to see what striking differences "dialects" of supposedly one and the same language can have. Specifically in the case of Northern and Southern Talyshi, the dialects are so different from each other in lexicon, historical phonological developments, and grammatical domains and also share very low mutual intelligibility. The claim is made here that Northern Talyshi represents a case of polygenesis from at least two different Iranian sources.Talyshi and Tati (also called "Old Azeri", i.e., the indigenous Iranian language of Azerbaijan, still spoken there in remnant pockets) are closely related Northwestern Iranian subgroups, collectively called Tatic. At some point after Talyshi and Tati diverged from each other, Northern Tati alone underwent some very striking linguistic restructurings, especially in its verbal system. One group of Northern Tati speakers subsequently moved eastwards off the plateau into the northern areas of the Talyshi zone, fanning somewhat southwards, and meshed with the local Talysh populations, affecting Northern Talyshi and much of Central Talyshi on all linguistic levels. Since the Southern Talyshi dialects did not participate in this process, a wide rift came about between Northern and Southern Talyshi. In addition, Southern Talyshi dialects probably also underwent their own parallel mixture with neighbouring varieties of Central Tati on the plateau through regular and ongoing contact and mutual borrowing.The set of unusual features shared by Northern Tati, and Northern and Central Talyshi are quite unique among Iranian languages. Most of these features are also shared by other languages in the area: quite aberrant dialects of Armenian (the so-called -lis branch), Udi (Daghestanian), Neo-Aramaic dialects, and Caucasian Tat (the Iranian linguistic enclave in Azerbaijan Republic and Daghestan). This situation most likely developed as a result of a language shift to Northern Tati by some pockets of one or more of the non-Iranian groups mentioned before Northern Tati groups moved into the Talyshi zone.


Modeling human skin deformation has many applications in the areas of computer graphics and human biomechanics. Nevertheless, most of the existing deformation approaches are too simple to be applied in biomedical applications. Although anatomy-based approach can determine the skin deformation based on the change in geometry of underlying layers, it is usually time-consuming to determine the geometrical change of each anatomical layer. This article presents a physics-based approach to model human skin deformation using boundary element method (BEM). Given the magnitude of displacement between the skin layer and the underlying skeleton at the anatomical landmarks, the approach determines the displacement of each vertices of the human skin model by using the BEM. We demonstrated our results by modeling the skin deformation of human lower limb with jumping and walking motions. Experimental results have shown that the proposed method can deform the skin layer at interactive frame rates.


Background: The nature of the FGFR1 signaling complex on the surface of living cells remains unclear. Results: A TR-FRET-based method revealed a ligand-independent dimer formation of FGFR1 that is independent of the cell-surface density. Conclusion: FGFR1 constitutively forms ligand-independent dimers that are either stabilized or undergo conformational changes in the presence of agonists. Significance: These findings help explain the mechanistic basis of FGFR1 activation by ligands and pathogenic mutations. Fibroblast growth factors receptors (FGFRs) are thought to initiate intracellular signaling cascades upon ligand-induced dimerization of the extracellular domain. Although the existence of unliganded FGFR1 dimers on the surface of living cells has been proposed, this notion remains rather controversial. Here, we employed time-resolved Förster resonance energy transfer combined with SNAP- and ACP-tag labeling in COS7 cells to monitor dimerization of full-length FGFR1 at the cell-surface with or without the coreceptor βKlotho. Using this approach we observed homodimerization of unliganded FGFR1 that is independent of its surface density. The homo-interaction signal observed for FGFR1 was indeed as robust as that obtained for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and was further increased by the addition of activating ligands or pathogenic mutations. Mutational analysis indicated that the kinase and the transmembrane domains, rather than the extracellular domain, mediate the ligand-independent FGFR1 dimerization. In addition, we observed a formation of a higher order ligand-independent complex by the c-spliced isoform of FGFR1 and βKlotho. Collectively, our approach provides novel insights into the assembly and dynamics of the full-length FGFRs on the cell surface.


Diamonds today the structure of diamond impurities in diamond optical absorption and colour luminescence the morphology of diamond geometric defects in the diamond lattice mechanical properties strength and fracture plastic deformation of diamond polishing and shaping diamond mechanical differences between diamonds friction polycrystalline diamond (PCD) application and wear of diamond wear and surface characteristics turning boring and milling grinding sawing and drilling miscellaneous applications. Appendices: some numerical values units and conversion factors.


Qurs saffron (herbal tablets) is used so widely as an analgesic for the treatment of gout through the Asia. And it is believed to be so safe because of its herbal properties. Therefore its effects on all the body functions are the need of hour to confirm the safety of this product for human health. In the current study the qualitative phytochemical screening of the product revealed that, it have excess quantity of alkaloids, moderate amount of saponin and carbohydrates. The alkaloids present in the product may be responsible of anti- gout effect. The anesthetic effect of the product were also checked, which were found to be negative. No comparable anesthetic effect was noted to that of xylocaine. From the current study it can be concluded that the product is effective for the use as anti-gout, and safe from the anesthetic effect.


The present invention is a biodegradable resin composition comprising a powder plant fiber component comprising a resin component and cornstarch comprising polylactic acid and polybutylene terephthalate and process for producing the same. Biodegradable resin composition according to the present invention, the sum of (A) a resin component and (B) powder vegetable fiber component, 100 parts by weight, (A) a resin component, polylactic acid of 20 to 50 parts by weight comprises a polybutylene terephthalate 10-40 parts by weight, (B) powder plant fiber component comprises 10 to 70 parts by weight of corn starch. Biodegradable resin composition according to the present invention, to produce a molded article can be suitably used.


With the rapid development of oilfield exploration and development technology and the continuous improvement of automation and informationization, the petroleum industry has entered the era of digitalization and intelligence. Surveillance data including pressure and saturation play increasingly role of reservoir development machine learning modelling. A large amount of high-quality data can enhance the accuracy and robustness of the neural network model. However, during actual reservoir development, not all data are easily available. Data acquisition is limited to high-cost tests techniques, pressure bulid-up test, reservoir saturation test, and production logging test etc. In this study, we develop a novel workflow to forecast and restore missing well head flow pressure (WHFP) by utilizing Random Forest (RF) algorithms based on the actual dataset obtained from the middle east carbonate reservoir. To evaluate the effect of prediction pressure results, we employed predicted WHFP into production prediction neural network model. With the support of predicted WHFP, the quality and accuracy of neural network production prediction model is much improved. This study provides a low-cost and high-precision WHFP prediction and restoration method for reservoir engineers in decision making.


We investigated the hydraulic properties of a fractured granite aquifer in the Laramie Range, Wyoming, using cross-hole pumping tests among six boreholes ranging from 16-76 m deep. Results of four cross-hole pumping tests were interpreted using analytical conceptual models and using SimSLE, a two-dimensional transient hydraulic tomography (HT) algorithm (Xiang et al., 2009). A set of field-scale vertically averaged horizontal hydraulic conductivities (Kh) was interpreted first using analytical models, i.e., Theis (1935), Cooper and Jacob (1946), Neuman (1974), and Moench (1997). The estimated Kh values are very close despite the difference in the assumptions of these analytical models. HT is a useful technique for imaging inter-well permeability heterogeneity. The SimSLE algorithm was able to image, between these boreholes, continuous high Kh and low specific storage (Ss) zones, thus areas with high hydraulic diffusivity. These inter-well zones allow fast preferential flows that reflect connectivity of fractures between the boreholes. In addition, the same algorithm identified a low Kh barrier between one borehole and the rest of the well field, which is consistent with what is known from site geological, drilling, and geophysical data. Finally, scale effect is observed as the pumping-test-inferred Kh is more than a factor of 5 greater than the slug-test-inferred Kh for several boreholes, suggesting fractures with greater permeability were encountered when the well test volume was expanded.


The kind of democracy that China follows appears to be an incremental one. The notion of incremental democracy embraces all useful elements of various theories and doctrines of democracy while staying true to the current Chinese situation and traditional culture.


Development of intelligent assembly cell conception includes new solution kind of how to create structures of automated and flexible assembly system. The current trend of the final product quality increasing is affected by time analysis of the entire manufacturing process. The primary requirement of manufacturing is to produce as many products as soon as possible, at the lowest possible cost, but of course with the highest quality. Such requirements may be satisfied only if all the elements entering and affecting the production cycle are in a fully functional condition. These elements consist of sensory equipment and intelligent control elements that are essential for building intelligent manufacturing systems. Intelligent behavior of the system as the control system will repose on monitoring of important parameters of the system in the real time. Intelligent manufacturing system itself should be a system that can flexibly respond to changes in entering and exiting the process in interaction with the surroundings. Keywords—Control system, intelligent manufacturing / assemble systems, manufacturing, monitoring process.


An electronic hopper weight scale was designed and built to measure and record the mass flow of
seed cotton, lint or lint cleaner waste. The measurement could be used in a feedback control loop to
optimize the operations of the gin equipment which included the feed control, gin stand, and lint
cleaners. The bottom doors of the electronic hopper scale were pneumatically controlled by a PC to
collect and dispose of the cleaner waste. A PC based data acquisition and control application was
developed to collect data from a low cost USB based A/D converter that sampled filtered and
amplified signals from two S- type strain gages. Tests were conducted on the electronic hopper to
verify its functionality and performance. The electronic hopper design and its control software
achieved a target accuracy of + 5%.


An understanding of the chemistry of the secondary metabolites of neem plant (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) is essential and important due to its medicinal properties. Several studies have been done on the biological and pharmacological activities with a considerable progress made with respect to its biological activity and medicinal uses. The neem safety is known from its long communal ethno-pharmacological uses as a category one herbal product. It is readily available with great access to the local population at low cost and environmentally friendly. This paper attempts to give an insight into the biological activities of some of the compounds isolated, pharmacological actions of the extract, clinical studies and medicinal applications along with their safety evaluations. Issues on the active chemical constituents of various formulations, commercially available neem products, are also mentioned along with their respective application.


The numerous and varied investigations which are being now prosecuted with such untiring energy and zeal in the various departments of medicine to which the microscope is applicable as a means of research, and the extreme difficulty of collating and comparing the results arrived at by the many observers of the several European and Trans-Atlantic schools, which lie scattered, in different languages, through the various scientific journals of the day, and in the Transactions and lleports of Academics and Societies, have led to the belief that it is highly desirable that the most important results of recent microscopic research should be brought into the compass of a retrospective report in the English language, which should appear at stated intervals. It is hoped that such a report will be, in some degree at least, useful to the advancement of medical science, and acceptable to the members of the profession, who will thus be enabled to keep their knowledge


The literature on Walrasian markets in large economies with adverse selection has used various equilibrium refinements, but has obtained no general incentive efficiency of equilibrium, namely when cross-subsidies are needed for efficiency. We show that the same refined equilibria may also be incentive inefficient even when general mechanisms that allow for such cross-subsidies are priced and can be traded. In the process, we also prove existence of some type of forward induction equilibria in this context.


Budgeting and accounting professionals, as well as other interested parties, are currently examining ways to improve governmental capital budgeting and reporting. Although progress has been made, major policy issues are still being analyzed and debated. This article provides an overview of current practices and the major policy issues that are being addressed. The discussion incorporates related ideas and observations made by Jesse Burkhead four decades ago. The author concludes that many of Burkhead's insights in the area of capital budgeting and reporting are still relevant and useful today.


A very interesting problem in the classical theory of minimal surfaces consists of the classification of such surfaces under some geometrical and topological constraints. In this short paper, we give a brief summary of the known classification results for properly embedded minimal surfaces with genus zero in $\mathbb{R}^3$ or quotients of $\mathbb{R}^3$ by one or two independent translations. This does not intend to be an exhaustive review of the tools or proofs in the field, but a simple explanation of the currently known results.


This paper presents a neural network controller for a piezoelectric controlled structure by emulating the control performance of a Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) controller. The configuration of the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is simple, yet it is efficient in terms of its high learning speed and good generalization ability. A case study is presented to demonstrate the performance of the ANN controller versus the LQG controller. The test results for different disturbances on the structure show excellent agreement between the ANN and LQG controllers.


An advanced type of CuCdS composite is synthesized using a one‐step synthesis method. Nanomaterials of CdS, CuS, and their bimetal sulphides were synthesized using hydrothermal method and employed as an electrode for supercapacitor applications. The optimized Cu/Cd cations ratio with S (at %: 29:29:42) of bimetallic CuCdS composites have an improved electrochemical capacitance of 180 F/g at 0.5 A/g with 80.2% retention and 88% coulombic efficiency after 2000 cycles at 1 mA cm−2, which is much greater than that of other Cu/Cd ratio altered composites and bare metal sulphides. This bimetallic Cu0.5Cd0.5S composite has the lowest Rs and Rct value of 0.245 and 6.3 Ω than other electrodes. The synergistic benefits of two metal ions with an optimal ratio and their distinctive structural advantages provide numerous active sites with enhanced electron transfer and intercalation processes, resulting in a considerable improvement. Furthermore, this technique is highly universal and can be adapted to virtually all transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD)‐related investigations to develop ideal electrode materials with significant structural and electrochemical fitting benefits, hence increasing the electrochemical performances of supercapacitor devices.


The conformational equilibria of chloroacetone and bromoacetone in various solvents were investigated using temperature and pressure-tuning Raman spectroscopy. Three conformational equilibria of gauche ←→ trans, gauche ←→ trans′ (trans conformer whose halogen atom forms hydrogen bonds with water), and trans ←→ trans′ were observed in water. Thermodynamic quantities between the conformers of both haloacetones in various solvents were evaluated from the temperature and pressure dependence of the Raman intensities of the C–X (X: Cl and Br) stretching modes. The effects of the substitution of halogen atoms were observed in the enthalpy and volume differences between the conformers in water. From the present results together with the previous results for fluoroacetone, a good correlation between the conformational thermodynamics for haloacetones in water and the polarizabilities of the halogen atoms was shown.


It is a survey research conducted on several Islamic schools (madrasah) in Yogyakarta Special Region Province which have purpose it's to know the implement of integrated character building on science learning in Primary School (Madrasah Ibtidaiyah) of Yogyakarta Special Region Province. Sample selection is carried out by stratifi ed purposive sampling technique. While the data collection technique used is observation,questionnaireand in-depth interview.The resultshowed that theimplement of integrated character building on science learning in PrimarySchool (Madrasah Ibtidaiyah) of YogyakartaSpecial Region Provincecan do with homework, science laboratory,learning together,fairytales, short story,integrated with subject and relatedmaterial withdaily live in children habituation.


Constitutional interpretation is a fundamental pillar for the materialization of human rights, in the sense that with jurisprudence it can provoke legal reforms, but above all extensive interpretations of the rights embodied in the Constitution. The present investigation aims to elucidate the interpretation of the Constitutional Court of Ecuador, necessary for the materialization of human rights, given that the interpretative rules are diverse and must be applied according to reality, in order to achieve true material justice. Consequently, the methods of constitutional interpretation should not be applied mechanically and in isolation. The methodology used responds to a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, systematized through analytical and exegetical methods, as well as in the documentary and bibliographic review. It is concluded that the interpretive activity carried out by the Constitutional Court of Ecuador is necessary and responds with greater agility to the diverse realities of its people than the constitutional reforms to achieve material justice; There must be sensitivity to guarantee human rights, taking into account the most effective rules of interpretation for each specific situation.


The purpose of this study was to develop materials for, and evaluate the effects of, systematic human relations training on members of church groups. Analysis of covariance revealed significant improvement in perceiving and responding skills, but no significant change in personal orientation following training.


A dispersive element in the form of the diffraction grating on a convex mirror surface is investigated. The groove profile of the grating is measured and the intensity distribution between the diffraction orders is calculated as a function of wavelength for the visible spectrum. Optomechanical elements for the required alignments of the spectrometer elements are designed and fabricated. Adjustment of a prototype optical scheme is implemented and point images for three monochromatic incident wavelengths are obtained. The energy distribution between the diffraction orders and the intensity maxima positions are in agreement with the simulation results.


This paper presents the general form of a model free control law and the engineering meaning of its parameters,and describes the way to set the parameter configuration of the model free controller.On the basis of the control process features of an on line intelligent dew point meter,the paper analyses the control state and gives out a group of suitable parameters.The practical application shows that the model free controller has good control effects in the application to a detecting instrument.


There are two players. Player 1 is of one of two types: B, whose capability to build a nuclear bomb is approaching a critical level, and NB, which does not have such a capability. The type is a private information of 1. Let β, 0 < β < 1 be the probability of B. β is commonly known. Player 2 would regard the capability to build the bomb as a severe threat, and has the capability to attack and destroy1's facilities. (For expositional clarity, we treat Player 1 as male and Player 2 as female.) ∗Ariel University, Israel, email@example.com †The Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, Israel and Stony Brook University, NY, USA,email@example.com ‡Harvard University, USA,Richard firstname.lastname@example.com


We present a survey on Weil sums in which an additive character of a finite field $F$ is applied to a binomial whose individual terms (monomials) become permutations of $F$ when regarded as functions. Then we indicate how these Weil sums are used in applications, especially how they characterize the nonlinearity of power permutations and the correlation of linear recursive sequences over finite fields. In these applications, one is interested in the spectrum of Weil sum values that are obtained as the coefficients in the binomial are varied. We review the basic properties of such spectra, and then give a survey of current topics of research: Archimedean and non-Archimedean bounds on the sums, the number of values in the spectrum, and the presence or absence of zero in the spectrum. We indicate some important open problems and discuss progress that has been made on them.


Introduction. On Data. Operations and Storage Computers. From 'Hardware to Software'. Operating Systems. Basic Communication Models. Connecting Computers. Local Area Networks. Wide Area Networks. Towards Communication Architectures. References. Index


For more than a year, Army Natick Laboratories have experimented with a new pilot project in military food service at Fort Lewis. The name of the project is CAFe, an experiment involving from 1,000 to 1,200 service men at the military post. Members of this volunteer group are supplied with numbered ID cards which permit them to eat in any of the food service units on the military base, especially those designed as test projects. The food is prepared by civilian employees. In several of the dining halls, the menu and service more closely resemble the snack bars and specialty restaurants the GI finds back horne or off the military base than the regulation army &dquo;chow&dquo; line.


The purpose of this research was to understand the relationship between SchoolBased Health Centers (SBHC) and academic outcomes such as attendance. A quasiexperimental research design was used to compare rates of early dismissal and "loss of seat time" for students who received SBHC and traditional school nursing services with students who received only traditional school nursing services. This study was a secondary data analysis of764 "walk in" visits during a three week period of time in two urban schools in western New York State. Both schools provided school nursing services, however; only one school offered the option to enroll in a SBHC. The results showed SBHCs significantly reduce the number of early school dismissals (p = .013) when compared to students who receive school nursing services alone and students not enrolled in a SBHC have three times more "loss of seat time" than students enrolled in a SBHC. Race, gender, age, poverty status, and presence of a pre-existing illness did not influence these findings. These findings suggest SBHCs have a direct impact on educational outcomes such as attendance. Additional findings include a greater number of early school dismissals for health reasons granted by non-health center personnel than by school health or SBHC personnel during the study time period. Recommendations for further research include replication of this study to increase confidence in the findings and using early dismissal and "loss of seat time" as indicators of attendance to measure other SBHC and school nursing health outcomes. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Education (EdD) Department Executive Leadership First Supervisor Mary Collins Second Supervisor David Rostetter Subject Categories Education This dissertation is available at Fisher Digital Publications: http://fisherpub.sjfc.edu/education_etd/79 School-Based Health Centers and Seat Time; What is the Intersection?


The outbreak of viruses have necessitated contact tracing and infection tracking methods. Despite various efforts, there is currently no standard scheme for the tracing and tracking. Therefore, many nations of the world have developed their own ways where carriers of disease could be tracked and their contacts traced. These are generalized methods developed either in a distributed manner giving citizens control of their identity or in a centralized manner where a health authority gathers data on those who are carriers. This paper outlines some of the most significant approaches that have been established for contact tracing around the world. A comprehensive review on the key enabling methods used to realize the infrastructure around these infection tracking and contact tracing methods is also presented, and recommendations are made for the most effective way to develop such a practice.


This paper analyzes the research status on the problem of economic development in the state-owned forest, from three crises dilemma, sustainable development, industrial structure adjustment and the forest right system reform. The result shows that there is short of systematic and basic theoretical research in the existing research. So, the paper points out the future research direction and focus, that is creating a new analysis framework which assimilate the basic principles and analysis methods of evolutionary economics and Austrian School economics, in order to probe the mechanism of changing economic system in state-owned forest, this is essential for economic development and social transformation of state-owned forest area in China.


MSCI Barra Product Insights © 2007 MSCI Barra. All rights reserved. 1 of 10 Please refer to the disclaimer at the end of this document. This case study provides an introduction to modeling assets and liabilities for asset owners within BarraOne. We show how to use BarraOne to analyze both assets and liabilities in a shared framework for understanding risk and return. Our example uses zero coupon bond instruments to proxy for liabilities although other proxies may be easily substituted. We illustrate how to analyze the surplus risk of the portfolio focusing on market risk specifically. Other sources of risk—nonmarket or biometric risk—are not addressed here but are discussed.


With the stabilizer surface (15) and a lower stabilizer surface (20) pitch stabilizing means (10), the upper stabilizer surface (15) is arranged in a plane (P1), the lower stabilizer surface (20) is placed on the lower plane (P2), the plane (P1) hanging above the plane (P2) lower. The upper stabilizer surface (15) around the rotation axis (AX1 of) movable in rotation, the lower stabilizer surface (20) is about a rotational axis (AX2 of) movable in rotation, the stabilizing means (10) having connection means (30) so that a rotational movement of the stabilizer surface causes rotational movement of another equal stabilizer surface. Stabilizing means for causing the above-described pitch stability minimize thrashing. And further relates to an aircraft.


The paper extends the recent literature on collapsing exchange roles and balance of payment crises to the case when currency inconvertibility gives rise to the emergence of an "illegal" black market. The presence of the black market generates indirect speculative attacks on the official reserves because, due to inconvertibility, agents cannot directly buy official reserves. The paper derives several conditional probability statements regarding the likelihood of successful devaluation as a way to unify the official and black market exchange rates and achieve economic stabilization.


Varying processes have caused the redistribution of volatiles in Lunar permanently shadowed regions. In this study, we analyze 16 complex craters ranging from Late Imbrian and older (> 3.2 Ga), and with diameters >20 km near the lunar southern pole to investigate their rates of topographic diffusion. We find the diffusive rates may be 10 m over 3.2 Ga, implying that the diffusive speeds of late Imbrian complex craters are similar to Late Imbrian simple craters [1], while diffusive speeds may be >1 km over 4.2 Ga craters, suggesting Nectarians and older craters experience much higher degradation. Considering water supply over this period yields a subsurface water fraction ranging from 0.1 wt. % (Imbrians or older) to 2 wt. % (Early Imbrian). In addition, impact mixing and internal heat may constrain the presence of ancient water in subsurface layers below meters and above 10s of meters for craters younger than ~3.8 Ga. Methodology: Computing total volume of mass wasting over a complex crater: We take differences between the modeled crater production and the observed crater population on the walls of complex craters to estimate the total number of craters erased by mass movement events [2]. The total volume of the erased crater cavities provides a lower bound of the mass wasting volume. This volume is used to determine the accumulation depth on the floor of each crater (Figure 1a). Calculating diffusive speed: Using the total amount of mass wasting and derived ages, we obtained the diffusive speeds for the 16 complex craters. The diffusive equation characterizes topographic diffusion and its timescale [1]. We consider the degradation state, κκκκ, an integral of the diffusivity over time, to quantify the diffusive rate of each complex crater. Degradation state: Figure 1b shows the size dependency of the degradation state that exhibits two trends. First, the κκκκ values of craters < ~30 km in diameter are two orders of magnitude higher. Second, the size dependency slope power of larger ones is given as 1.05, which is higher, but still consistent with earlier work, 0.92 [3]. The results show that the degradation states of complex craters < 30 km are like those of small, simple craters [3], while larger craters likely experience significantly high degradation (Figures 1c and 1d). Net effect on water distribution: Topographic diffusion of larger complex craters enhances material transport from crater walls to the floors. Geologic processes, such as impacts [4], solar wind implantation [5], and volcanic outgassing [6,7] may add water to the accumulated layers up to 2 wt. % (~3.2 Ga) and 0.1 (~4.2 Ga). Impact mixing may mix ice with regolith up to meters in 3.0 Ga, or more with time [8], while the subsurface temperature distribution limits the deeper side of the water distribution up to 10s of meters, when the surface temperature is ~50 K.


The objective of this study was to conceptually design a field biodigestor that is characterized by being mobile, integrating other renewable energies in its operation and functioning, and a high capacity for dry matter, with the aim of having an alternative source of energy for the Mexican highlands and to care for the environment. The research was done in Salinas, San Luis Potosi, Mexico; sheep manure was chosen as organic residue, and the optimization of transport and location of storehouses was performed based on the availability in the municipality. Manure filtration assays were done and the dry weight was obtained in the laboratory. The mobile thermophilic biodigestor presented the possibility of improving the biogas production process with the following effects: reduction of the water necessary in more than 50 % due to the high dry matter. Because of the mobility, energy is saved for transport of the material supply and biofertilizer distribution. Solar heating of the substrate allows reducing the processing time around 50 %. The process of mixing the hydraulic, mechanic, pneumatic substrate is not necessary because only the liquid moves. In addition, soil compacting is reduced because of the weight reduction of the biofertilizer. It is possible to use the biodigestor in a mobile, transportable or stationary way. Assays are necessary in the production with different technological uses to receive experiences of feasibility


HLS (Hydrostatic Levelling System) is mainly used in survey and high-accuracy alignment in particle accelerator. Monitoring the earth tides is primarily introduced in this paper. Based on the earth tide theory and the ocean load effects on the planet earth, the tidal effects on a hydrostatic leveling system are analyzed. Finally, the local ground deformation is obtained, and the current research establishes a foundation for the further study.


We have demonstrated an all solid state Ti:Sapphire laser system consisting of a power oscillator and single pass amplifier. The electrical-to-optical efficiency far exceeds that of the current CW systems. The pump lasers have lower capital and operating costs than the Argon-ion laser. In the future, we plan to scale the output power to higher levels by adding a fourth pump laser and improving the output power of the current pump lasers. Modeling results suggest that a large increase in efficiency can be realized by improving the beam quality of the pump lasers, even at the cost of reduced output power. We will explore this option by adding apertures to the cavity and/or reducing the rod diameter along with optimizing the resonator design. Other improvements in efficiency which will be investigated include double passing the amplifier for better extraction. To complete this work, the laser system will be converted into a two-stage amplifier. A narrow band, lower power oscillator currently under development will be injected in to the amplifier to study the extraction and efficiency characteristics of the amplifier throughout the tuning range of Ti:Sapphire. Detailed beam quality measurements will also be made. Other work will include doubling the narrow band output for materials processing applications.


A hotline for RCN members wanting to raise concerns about poor practice in the workplace went live this week. It was devised by RCN general secretary Peter Carter following widespread fears that nurses' concerns are routinely ignored.


Electronic Health Record (EHR) system facilitates us a lot for health record management. Privacy risk of patients' records is the dominating obstacle in the widely deployed EHRs. Role-based access control (RBAC) schemes offer an access control on EHRs according to one's role. Only the medical staff with roles satisfying the specified access policies can read EHRs. In existing schemes, attackers can link patients' identities to their doctors. Therefore, the classification of patients' diseases are leaked without actually knowing patients' EHRs. To address this problem, we present an anonymous RBAC scheme. Not only it achieves flexible access control, but also realizes privacy-preserving for individuals. Moreover, our scheme maintains the property of constant size for the encapsulated EHRs. The proposed security models with semantic security and anonymity can be proven under decisional bilinear group assumptions. Besides, we provide an approach for EHR owners to search out their targeted EHR in the anonymous system. For better user experience, we apply "online/offline" approach to speed up data processing in our scheme. Experimental results show that the time consumption for key generation and EHR encapsulation can be done in milliseconds.


We examined the electrical conductivity and transmittance of six types of SWNT network films, developed for potential use in transparent conductive films, to investigate the effect of Au doping on single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) defects: (i) SWNT network films without Au doping (as-produced (AP-SWNTs), purified (P-SWNTs), and cut (C-SWNTs)) and (ii) Au-doped films of AP-SWNTs (Au/AP SWNTs), P-SWNTs (Au/P-SWNTs), and C-SWNTs (Au/C-SWNTs). The density of SWNT network films was varied systematically by controlling the SWNT concentration and mediating defect formation. The electrical conductivity of each SWNT film was found to be significantly enhanced upon Au doping, with a negligible loss of optical transmittance. The effects of Au doping differed depending on the type of nanotube network present: the electrical conductivity of Au/C-SWNTs was found to be similar to that of Au/AP-SWNTs for a given transmittance, whereas the conductivity of C-SWNTs is much lower than that of the AP-SWNTs prior to Au dopi...