Smart home technology implementation remains an essential aspect of Internet of Things (IoT). It provides needed living support and convenience for elderly people in society. Despite the remarkable achievements in smart home monitoring technology studies, a systematic literature review (SLR) on smart home technology implementation is lacking. There is a limited number of SLR studies on smart home monitoring technology. Therefore, the current study assesses the literature to collect the evidence regarding studies on smart home monitoring technology implantation. An SLR method involving a manual search was applied to review the articles published from January 2010 to December 2019. To carefully classify these articles accordingly, we applied certain quality assessment criteria. Out of 73 relevant primary studies, only 3% were identified to have applied comprehensive SLR guidelines. Seven percent of the relevant studies were identified to have applied the SLR guidelines in a strongly moderately acceptable manner, but they were not completely comprehensive, whereas 8% of the primary studies applied the SLR guideline in a fairly acceptable manner. This manuscript therefore encourages researchers working on SLR studies on smart home technology to apply comprehensive SLR guidelines that takes into account the quality standard.


Many upper stages and spacecrafts use MMH / NTO for the propulsive manoeuvres. For low and medium delta V operations, a low cost space storable propellant couple could be selected e.g. N2O / propane or propylene. LOX / light hydrocarbon combinations offer superior Isp and are well suited for higher delta V requirements like planetary orbit insertion or landing on large natural satellites without atmosphere. At the upper end of performance, LOX / LH2 stages with propellant quantities between 2 and 10 tons provide very high performance for planetary missions. LOX could be stored passively in space under some conditions, but LH2 requires active cooling.


Since the 1970s urban areas are increasingly characterised by an active stance towards economic growth. This change in urban policy, often referred to as urban entrepreneurialism, envelops different city regeneration processes (CRP). This paper contributes to the academic debate by developing a theoretical framework that allows the analysis of the effect of CRP on the cost of housing. Through an ambitious combination of rent theory with a régulation-approach the different role of built environment in two CRP ideal-types are discussed. The two, non-exlusive CRP considered in this paper are defined as "places of production" and "places of consumption".


Purposes and background of study: We compared the effects of lumbar muscle-strengthening programmes with and without pelvic stabilisation on low back pain (LBP). A dynamometer employing a stabilisation procedure (lumbar extension machine, MedX, Ocala, FL) is effective in improving strength and reducing LBP symptoms (Nelson et al., Orthopedics, 1995, 18,971–981), and researchers have hypothesised that this effectiveness is due to the pelvic stabilisation (Graves et al., Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 1994, 75,210–215). However, effects of the dynamometer with and without pelvic stabilisation on LBP have not been compared, so we examined this issue. Methods and Results: Fifty-seven chronic LBP patients were randomly assigned to a lumbar extension training with pelvic stabilisation group (STAB; n=20), a lumbar extension without pelvic stabilisation group (NO-STAB; n=17) and a control group (n=20). STAB and NO-STAB participants completed one weekly session of dynamic variable resistance exercise (one set of 8–12 repetitions to fatigue) on the lumbar extension machine (with or without pelvic stabilisation) for 12 weeks. Pre- and post-test measures of self-reported LBP (101-point visual analogue scale; pre-test mean of 25), related disability (Oswestry disability index; pre-test mean of 34) and lumbar strength were taken. After the exercise programme, the STAB group increased significantly in lumbar strength at all joint angles, and decreased significantly in visual analogue and Oswestry scores. However, there were no significant changes in these variables in the NO-STAB and control groups. Conclusion: Isolated lumbar extension exercise is very effective in reducing LBP in chronic patients. However, when the pelvis is not stabilised, otherwise identical exercises appear ineffective in reducing LBP.


The paper analyzes the results of a part of an empirical research related to the influence of interaction between a child and puppet on children's behavior and play. Particular emphasis is on the part of the research related to correlation between preschool educator's emotional empathy and imagination, and prosocial and aggressive behavior of children, as well as with children's spontaneous play in kindergarten. It was established that there educator's empathy and imagination were connected with prosocial and aggressive behavior of children, and with certain aspects of children's spontaneous game. Children from groups led by more emphatic and more imaginative teachers (experimental group) were more prosocial, while the children from groups led by less emphatic and less imaginative educators were found to be more aggressive. The results of observing the children's spontaneous game indicate that the children led by more emphatic and imaginative teachers (experimental group of educators) used more imaginative games, particularly the symbolic puppet play, and did practical activities in small groups or pairs. The children led by control group of teachers played significantly more social and didactic games with rules, and sports games.


Introduction: Nephrolithiasis is a multifactorial disease and it has relation with genetic disorders and environmental factors. Stones are most common in adults and are associated with several metabolic disorders. Calcium oxalate is the most common type of stone. The objective of this study is to evaluate chemical analysis of calculi in our region. Methods: We made a retrospective study on 1,342 patients with evidence of recent formation of renal stones. Laboratory investigation included chemical analysis when the stones were available. Results: 1,342 patients with nephrolithiasis [...]


Recent literature suggests that free‐water corrected (fiso) diffusion MRI (dMRI) measures provide higher sensitivity as compared to conventional single‐tensor (ST) dMRI measures to understand white‐matter (WM) changes due to neurodegeneration. However, fiso‐corrected dMRI measures are still biased at crossing‐fiber regions (CFR) of WM which are shown to be around 90% of the total WM voxels with conventional dMRI data acquisition. In this study, we systematically compared dMRI measures from ST‐dMRI, fiso‐corrected ST‐dMRI measures, and measures from advanced dMRI models such as Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging (DKI) and Neurite Orientation Distribution and Density Imaging (NODDI) which are sensitive to CFRs. We hypothesize that these advanced dMRI models will be sensitive in understanding sex‐specific WM organizational changes at regional level in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐related mild cognitive impairment (MCI).


Effects of natural catalysts, isothiocyanates and polysulfides, on Z-isomerization and decomposition of (all-E)-carotenoids (lycopene, β-carotene, astaxanthin) following heat treatment were investigated. When isothiocyanates were added to (all-E)-carotenoid solutions and heated, Z-isomerization and decomposition of carotenoids were enhanced, and the degree differed depending on isothiocyanate type. Interestingly, when polysulfides were applied in the same manner, in addition to promoting the Z-isomerization reaction, they markedly improved thermal stability of carotenoids. Successively, we investigated the reaction characteristics of allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) and diallyl disulfide (DADS) using (all-E)-lycopene, i.e., effects of the amount added, solvent used, and reaction temperature and time, as well as the combination use on Z-isomerization and decomposition of lycopene were investigated. With increases in the amount added and reaction temperature and time, Z-isomerization of lycopene was promoted for both catalysts. The high temperature treatment tests clearly showed that AITC induced thermal decomposition of lycopene, whereas DADS improved the lycopene stability. Moreover, the simultaneous use of AITC and DADS resulted in a synergetic effect on the Z-isomerization efficiency.


Received: Revised: Accepted: 2013–12–09 2013–12–24 2013–12–25 A clinical appraisal of forty eight buffalo calves suffering from obstructive urolithiasis and treated with tube cystostomy, urethrotomy and tube cystostomy plus urethrotomy (16 each) was made. All the affected calves were male and average age and duration of illness was 4.86 months and 4.20 days, respectively. Urinary bladder was intact in 19 calves and ruptured in remaining 29 calves. The common clinical signs with intact urinary bladder were anuria, inappetance to anorexia, sunken eyes, engorged urethra, anal sphincter movement, to and fro movement of the penis, frequent attempt to urinate etc. In the cases of ruptured urinary bladder, bilateral distension of abdomen was the common clinical sign. Rupture of urinary bladder on dorsal surface was more than on ventral surface. Appearance of bladder was mostly rough, inflamed and necrosed in ruptured and subserous ruptured cases whereas smooth and bluish in intact urinary bladder. Adhesion of bladder was seen with omentum, mesentery and/or peritoneum. Post–scrotal was the most common urethrotomy site and calculi were mostly retrieved from distal part of sigmoid flexure. In most of the cases, calculi were removed in single incision and catheterization was difficult to very difficult in those cases where multiple incisions were made in the urethra. Immediate flow of urine through urethral catheter was not seen in most of the cases; however, it was noticed through Foley's catheter in all the cases. Duration of surgery was minimal in tube cystostomy cases. All copyrights reserved to Nexus® academic publishers


important aspects to teach English for Specific Purposes. One possible way of domg this is by lookmg at the vocabulary needed by learners when reading a text This research specifically exammes the vocabulary m an Economics text used by first year university students of Economics at Victoria University of Wellmgton (VUW) and at some other umversities and compares it with other corpus of almost similar length


According to the design features of the boiler combustion,secondary air baffle according to their works were divided into secondary air baffle,baffle perimeter wind,burn the top layer of the wind baffle and oil damper baffle gun.By analysis of burner secondary air damper,It's more better to understanding of the secondary air baffle in the boiler combustion adjustment process in the importance of regulation to understand the DCS thermal control logic,and to improve the control unit level,can better.


ZnO nanomaterials of different morphologies have been synthesized and the effect of morphology on Photocatalytic activity on natural dye has been investigated. Crystalline size and lattice strain of the synthesized particles are determined by XRD analysis and Williamson–Hall (W–H) method respectively. All other important physical parameters such as strain, stress and energy density values are also calculated using W–H analysis using different models such as uniform deformation model, uniform deformation stress model and uniform deformation energy density model. A shift in the peak of FTIR spectrum of ZnO is observed due to morphology effects. The SEM analysis reveals that the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles appear as flake, rod and dot. ZnO quantum dot exhibits higher photocatalytic activity comparing to the other morphologies. Larger surface area, high adsorption rate, large charge separation and the slow recombination of electrons/holes in ZnO dots establish dots as favorable morphology for good photocatalysis. Among the three, ZnO quantum dot shows three-times enhancement in the kinetic rate constants of photocatalysis. The results confirm that availability of specific (active) surface area, photocatalytic potential and quantum confinement of photo-induced carriers differ with morphology.


Studying the change of population distribution and density can provide important basis for regional development and planning. However, the spatial patterns and driving factors of the change of population density in China were not clear yet. Therefore, using the population census data in 2000 and 2010, this study first analyzed the change of population density in China and divided the changes in all 2353 counties into 4 types, consisting of rapid increase, slow increase, slow decrease and rapid decrease. Subsequently, based on the partial least square(PLS) regression method, we recognized the significant influencing factors of population density change among 11 natural and social-economic factors for the whole country and counties with different types of population change. The results showed that:(1)compared to the population density in 2000, the population density in most counties(over60%) increased by 21 persons per km2 on average, while the population density in other counties decreased by 13 persons per km2 in 2010. Of all 2353 counties, 860 and 589 counties respectively show rapidly and slowly increasing population density, while 458 and446 counties show slowly and rapidly decreasing population density, respectively.(2) Among the 11 factors, social-economic factors have impact on population density change more significantly than natural factors. The higher economic development level, better medical condition and stronger communication capability were main pull factors of population increases. The dense population density was the main push factor of population decreases.These conclusions generally clarified the spatial distribution pattern of population change and its influencing factors in China over the past 10 years and could provide reference for the future population planning.


Land contractual management right into real right is still restricted by the status of the members of the rural collectives. Under the status restriction of the members, it is difficult for the system of the land contractual management right to eliminate the internal conflict between right stabilization and right equality, between right solidifying and population movement, and between land utilization and farmer living security, which thus results in grievous adverse effect on realization of the farmers' interests in land and raising of land utilization efficiency. Change of rural economic and social conditions, improvement of farmer living conditions and expanding of living space, has laid a good foundation for cutting the linkage of the status and the land contractual management right. Maintaining long time or permanent land contractual management right is an effective approach to realization of such cutting.


163 Background: Low molecular weight cyclin E (LMW-E) isoforms are overexpressed in a majority (~70%) of triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC). LMW-E isoforms have a role in tumorigenesis, likely mediated through binding and activation of CDK2. The combination of CDK1/CDK2 inhibitors, such as dinaciclib, with an anthracycline was found to be synergistic in decreasing viability of TNBC cell lines. Based on this data, we conducted a phase 1 study aimed to determine the maximum tolerated dose of dinaciclib in combination with epirubicin in patients with metastatic TNBC.

METHODS
Cohorts of at least 2 patients were treated with escalating doses of dinaciclib (20-50 mg/m2) given on day 1 followed by standard dose of epirubicin (75 mg/m2) given on day 2 of a 21 day cycle. All patients received pegfilagrastim 24-48 hours after chemotherapy. No intra-patient dose escalation was allowed. An adaptive accrual design based upon toxicity during cycle 1 determined entry into therapy cohorts. The target acceptable dose limiting toxicity (DLT) to advance to the next treatment level was 30%.

RESULTS
Between 9/18/2012 and 7/18/2013, 9 patients were enrolled and treated at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Patient characteristics are included in the Table. One patient was taken off treatment after 1 cycle due to toxicity. DLTs included febrile neutropenia (grade 3, n=2), syncope (grade 3, n=2) and vomiting (grade 3, n=1). Dose escalation did not proceed past the second cohort due to toxicity. After further accrual, the first dose level was found to be too toxic. Eight patients had disease progression, median number of cycles was 1 (range 1-4), and median time to progression was 1 month (range 1-3). No treatment responses were noted and it was decided to stop accrual rather than explore lower dose levels. Associated with significant toxicities.

CONCLUSIONS
The combination of dinaciclib and epirubicin does not appear to be an effective treatment option for TNBC, and is associated with significant toxicities.

CLINICAL TRIAL INFORMATION
NCT01624441. [Table: see text].


Objective To explore the risk factors of personalityand mental health for asthma in children. Methods 69children with bronchial asthma and 69 healthy children,8~14 years old ,were investigated about Eysenck Personality Questionnaire(EPQ)(Junior),and their parents were asked question about family and mental health.A 1∶1 matched case control study was conducted,Logistic regression model were processed respectively. Results There were no significant differences between the four dimensionality(E,P,N,L)of EPQ.When analyzing every question individually,we found four questions belong to N dimensionality such as"easy to feel boredom";"uncomfortable with no reason";"with flimsy sentiment";and "felt compunctious easily when doing something wrong" as well as three questions belongto E,P,L individually such as "like play alone";"would like others afraid ofhim";"when other child shouted to him,he always shouted back to him" were associated with the risks of asthma.Bad Marital relationship between parents as well as parents cosher and protect their child more carefully can enhance the possibility of the development and the occurrence of asthma in children.Meanwhile attitude of democratic parents to their children can decrease the risk of asthma in children. Conclusions Some questions belong to N dimensionality are high,parents cosher and protect their child more carefully arepotential risk factors of asthma in children.Cultivating sound personality andmental health in children,are significant to prevent the occurrence and the severe degree of asthma in children.


The magnetism of a 26-nm-thick Cr spacer layer, in an $\mathrm{Fe}∕\mathrm{Cr}(110)$ multilayer previously characterized via neutron diffraction, is studied with perturbed angular correlation spectroscopy. The existence of a commensurate antiferromagnetic state between $200\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$ and $500\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$, and an incommensurate spin-density-wave state below $200\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$ is confirmed. In addition, the present results reveal dynamical behavior of the Cr magnetic moments at elevated temperature. The observed spin fluctuations may be essential to understand the transition from the incommensurate antiferromagnetic to the paramagnetic state in thin Cr films.


A mixture of activated carbon and vermiculite was used to increase the tolerance to 2-chloro-4,6-bis(ethylamino)-s-triazine (simazine) of direct-seeded cucumbers (Cucumis sativus L., var. Wisconsin SMR-15) in greenhouse tests and direct-seeded tomatoes (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill, var. Bouncer) in greenhouse and field (var. Heinz 1370) tests. The tolerance of cucumbers to dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA) and 4-(methylsulfonyl)-2,6-dini tro-N,N-dipropylaniline (nitralin) also was increased in field trials. When the mixture was placed in a hole (0.75 inch deep by 1 inch diam) over the crop seed to the level of the soil surface, preemergence herbicides were detoxified in the small area; and the crop plant was not injured. The herbicide remained active outside the small protected area. Also, a wafer consisting of an activated carbon-vermiculite mixture, fertilizer, and seed provided protection to direct-seeded crops.


Abstract We studied Desert Massasauga Rattlesnakes (Sistrurus catenatus edwardsii) in southeastern Colorado in 1998 and 2005–2007. Mark–recapture data for 770 snakes indicated a population size of >3,500 snakes in an area of approximately 4,800 ha. Field growth rates and size class frequency distributions showed that average snake age was 3 yr; 4 yr old snakes were frequently encountered, but less than 4% were 5 yr or older, suggesting low survivorship beyond this age. Conversely, initial growth was rapid; snakes grew an average of 0.57 mm/day in their first full year. Desert Massasaugas mated in fall and spring, producing 2–7 (mean 3.3) young in late August to early September, and reproduction appeared to be biennial. Desert Massasaugas showed maternal attendance for at least 5 days postparturition, and neonate dispersal corresponded with the first shed. Radioed Desert Massasaugas (N = 15) used rodent burrows as hibernacula, and within 50 m of Desert Massasauga hibernacula, eight snake, five anuran, and two turtle species use the same area for hibernation. Low prey density at the hibernaculum indicates that stable hibernation conditions are the primary resource attracting a diverse assemblage of species to this area. The hibernaculum area serves as a critically important winter refuge for numerous species and supports the largest known population of Desert Massasaugas. This population is considered stable at present; however, because of rapidly changing climatic conditions, habitat loss and degradation, anthropogenic disturbance, and shifts in prey abundance, it may become threatened in the near future, and continued monitoring is warranted.


A new rhodamine-based reversible chemosensor (L1 ) is reported, which could bind Hg2+ and Cu2+ in aqueous methanol solution with detectable change in color. Cu2+ and Hg2+ ions responded differently toward the fluorescence output signals on binding to L1.L1 could also be used as a selective probe for monitoring Hg2+ adsorbed on bacteria using an optical microscope.


In this paper, we analyse the properties of the standard circular hidden Markov model (HMM) on 2D shape recognition. We point out the limitations of the circular HMMs and further propose to impose the constraint on the relationship between the initial and final states of circular HMMs to improve the performance. We develop two modified Viterbi algorithms to implement our proposal. The proposed algorithms have been tested on the database of the MPEG-7 Core Experiments Shape-1, Part B. The experiments show that both proposed algorithms can achieve better performance than that of the standard circular HMM in terms of accuracy. In particular, the second proposed algorithm, which is faster than elastic matching algorithms, has much potential due to its accuracy and speed.


We developed a MEMS 6-axis force-torque sensor attached to the tip of grasping forceps for identification of tumor in thoracoscopic surgery. To validate the grasping forceps with sensors, the gelatin in which a silicone sphere was embedded was grasped with it and the variations in 3-axis force and 3-axis torque depending on grasping positions were measured. The size of the embedded hard object in a soft material was derived from acquired data of compression forces. It was also indicated that we can get the direction of the object from 2-axis torques.


The behavior of aluminum cylindrical and conical shells of thickness variation along their lengths subjected to quasi-static axial compression was examined. The study was conducted using experimental and FE simulation approaches. The cylinders had mean radius of 25 mm, while the cones had smaller and larger radii of 15 mm and 35 mm respectively. Their thicknesses were increased linearly from top end to bottom end with the thickness ratio (TR) of 0.0, 0.1 and 0.2. The mean thicknesses of specimens were 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm and 2.0 mm. The numerical simulations on those experiments were also conducted using the finite element code, ABAQUS. The results from experiment and FEA simulation were compared and good agreement was achieved. It was found that the energy absorption capacity of cylinder with thickness varying along the length is increasing as the value of TR increases. In contrast, the cone with thickness varying along the length seems to lose its energy absorption capacity as the value of TR increases. In addition, their deformation histories and loaddisplacement curves were presented and discussed.


An ensemble of spherical particles with arbitrary dielectric permittivity and magnetic permeability was considered in the dipole approximation. Each particle was described by complex electric and magnetic polarizabilities. A computational approach based on the coupled dipole method, also called the discrete dipole approximation, was used to derive the optical force experienced by each particle due to an incident electromagnetic field and the fields scattered by all other particles. This approach is general and can handle material dispersion and losses. In order to illustrate this approach, we studied the case of two spherical particles separated by a distance d, and illuminated by an incident plane wave whose wave vector is normal to the axis of the particles. We computed the optical force experienced by each particle in the direction of the beam (radiation pressure), and perpendicular to the beam (optical binding) for particles with positive and negative refractive indices. We also considered the effect of material losses.


Current stage of education development is characterized by increasing attention to school youth's education and upbringing, creating appropriate conditions for the realization of personality intellectual and creative potential of the growing up generation. An important role in this process belongs to the New Ukrainian School. Namely, as the effectiveness of its functioning, as a socially determined pedagogical system aimed at providing for the students' creative needs in the process of research activity, formation of their creative activity, independence and creative culture. Research activity is considered as an activity aimed primarily at obtaining new knowledge for a teacher in order to find ways and means to improve pedagogical process. Future teacher's pedagogical competence regarding research activities is defined as a unity of the following components: the motivational; the content; the operational; the integrational. Analysis of methodological literature of the research makes it possible to clarify the content of "research activity" concept, which we understand as a kind of cognitive activity that uses educational research as the main means of achieving educational result. Research activity predicts an active cognitive position related to periodic and lasting internal search, the work of mental processes, deeply meaningful processing of information, action through "trial and error", personal discoveries. In the New Ukrainian School attention is paid to the development of students' research skills such as hypothesis building, planning, arranging observations, collecting and processing information, using and transforming information to acquire new conclusions, integrating the content of several fields of knowledge. Main purpose of a research workshop is to form a propaedeutic system of scientific concepts, research skills, mastering of which will allow a primary school student to feel the joy of discovering new knowledge, knowledge of oneself and the world around. The gradual development of students' research experience is provided by the extension of carried out operational actions while completing educational research tasks and increasing activity difficulty – from frontal under teacher's guidance to individual independent activities. Involvement of students in research activities should be flexible, differentiated, based on the features of the manifestation of the children's individual research experience. Research activity is a progressive form of studying that allows pedagogue to reveal and develop students' personal intellectual abilities. Unlike reproductive activities research activities give the student much more freedom of mental activity. Opportunity to choose one's own subject activity stimulates the child to independently analyze the results and consequences of the activities. Each result achieved generates reflection, the consequence of which becomes the emergence of new plans and ideas, which are further specified and embodied in a new research. Thus, research work in primary school (and in the study of natural science in particular) allows us to conclude that it will be effective under the following pedagogical conditions: ensuring continuity in carrying out experiments and observations of nature in primary school; purposeful teaching of educational observation and experimentation methods to students; taking into account the age and individual psychological characteristics of primary school students; optimal combination of reproductive and creative approaches in the organization of research and educational experiments; the directions of research work offered to students should be various; research topics should be practice-focused and interesting to students.


The solution to the problem of the interaction of linear waves with a composite breakwater is presented and is applied to determine wave reflection and transmission as well as wave loads on a caisson founded on a multilayered rubble base. The results show that the bench width has little effect, whereas the rubble base height has a significant effect of wave reflection and transmission and on wave loads on the caisson. The results also show that complex, thick, or less permeable armor layers increase the effect of rubble base. Moreover, the results show that the rubble damping properties should be included in the analysis of wave reflection and transmission, and wave loads on a caisson, and that the damping can be described satisfactorily by the Darcy damping law. The present method can be applied in a straightforward manner to an excitation provided by wind waves and, before a more advanced approach is attempted, some cases associated with nonlinear wave excitation may partially be analyzed with a modification to the present approach. Theoretical results are in fairly good agreement with experimental data.


This study was designed to assess the tolerability of chronomodulated infusion chemotherapy, individualized by the rhythm of peripheral blood cells. Twenty patients with metastatic gastric cancer were randomized to chronotherapy or day-time arms of 5-fluorouracil (FU) (600 mg/m2, 8 h inf.d1–5) and folinic acid (FA) (20 mg/m2, iv, d1–5) in the first cycle and crossed-over to the other arm in the following cycles. Ten of 18 evaluable patients were assigned to chronotherapy arm and eight to day-time in the first cycle. Although there was no significant difference between two arms on enrollment, chronotherapy arm yielded an improvement of 45% of QLQ-C30 scores (p = 0.021) and the day-time arm had 11% improvement (p = 0.575). After the crossing-over, chronotherapy arm, again, had a significant improvement in QLQ-C30 scores, compared to the day-time arm (14% vs. −18%, p = 0.001, respectively). Mucositis/diarrhea was significantly higher in the day-time arm compared to chronotherapy arm (p = 0.015). In conclusion, chronomodulated infusion of 5-FU might improve the quality of life.


Some structures are vulnerable to localized internal damages incurred by impact of small objects. An impact monitoring system using fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors has been established. Its ability to detect very low to medium energy impacts has been demonstrated on an aluminum plate and a 22 m long wind turbine blade. Previous analysis of this technique showed that the accuracy by which an impact position can be located is limited by equipment noises and angular insensitivity of the FBG. By employing two intensity demodulation schemes with different demodulation sensitivities and ranges, we try to differentiate the relative importance of the above limiting effects. Based on the results, directions for further improvement on impact source locating accuracy will be discussed and the implication of applying such systems on large-scale structures will be examined.


Having a precise understanding of the determinants of transportation mode choices and decisions can be under the influence of regional and cultural aspects. This paper outlines such determinants in the Iranian city of Kerman as a representative of the similar Middle Eastern cities located in hot-arid climates and Moslem cultures. The descriptive analysis of the results derived from a short survey that was a part of a larger study conducted in the second half of 2013 indicated that adding to accessibility to public transportation and the convenience of using it can persuade people to shift from car driving to public transit use. The main barriers to bicycling are socio-cultural aspects, while for walking the obstacles are physical and objective. Increasing the quality of pedestrian infrastructure and spaces is a stronger deterrent than personal attitudes against walking. Such findings show slight dissimilarities from the results of some of the western studies that find the built environment more effective. These findings can be a general guide for the Middle Eastern planners to promote walking, biking, and public transport use.


The paper addresses the issue of modelling the hydromechanical behaviour of swelling clays that exhibit evidence of multi-porosity. A double structure constitutive model developed for such materials is presented fi rst followed by a double porosity formulation intended for the performance of coupled hydromechanical numerical analysis. Hydraulic equilibrium between porosity levels is not assumed; instead a water exchange term is postulated. Constitutive model and formulation are then applied to the simulation of a number of experimental tests involving the hydration of a mixture of pellets and powder; a heterogeneous material in which the presence of two structural levels in especially marked. It is shown that the complex behaviour exhibited by this material is satisfactorily reproduced. Insights into the basic processes that underlie the observed macroscopic behaviour are also obtained.


This paper presents potential applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for planning and management of linear construction projects that are affected by the geographic conditions. Previous GIS applications in construction management area are reviewed. Potential applications are described using examples from a pipeline project. Benefits of GIS for planning and management of linear construction projects are discussed.


The efferent connections of the striatum and the nucleus accumbens of the lizard Gekko gecko were studied with the anterograde tracer Phaseolus vulgaris‐ leucoagglutinin (PHA‐L). These structures were found to have segregated output systems. The striatum shows a major projection to the globus pallidus. Striatal fibers which are more caudally directed run through the lateral forebrain bundle and can be traced as far caudally as the pars reticularis of the substantia nigra where they exhibit many varicosities. Along its course, the lateral forebrain bundle issues fibers with varicosities to the anterior and posterior entopeduncular nuclei. The major recipient structure of the nucleus accumbens is the ventral pallidum. The nucleus accumbens, in addition, projects to the portion of the lateral hypothalamus in the path of the medial forebrain bundle and to the ventral tegmental area, which is its most caudal target.


The invention relates to a process for the baud rate for field devices (1), which are connected via a serial communication link (3) with a master device (2) that allow different transmission speeds. It is proposed to integrate the state machine of the baud rate in the state machine of the HART protocol and use the preamble phase to perform a synchronization of the baud rate of the field device (1) with the transmitting side (2).


Abstract In the Republic of Azerbaijan, the opening up of borders and the transition to a free market economy have paved the way not only for economic transformations but also for cultural intrusion from the West and the South. This has coincided with the intensification of globalizing processes across the world over the past two decades. This article examines the impact of the ensuing changes on gender norms and the position of women in public and domestic spheres in Azerbaijan. Pointing to the paradoxical gender ideology under the Soviet system and the way that it has evolved in recent years, the article examines the impact of conflicting ideologies and exogenous influences, such as the advent of the commercialization of sex, on women's economic position and public presence. It finds that, although some of the old ambiguities in gender norms and relations are being eroded, new gender asymmetries are arising along with contradictions and new tensions in gender and family relations. The diversification of perceptions of femininity and gender norms is shown to have occurred in tandem with the intensification of regional disparities, in particular the metropolitan-periphery divide, which has resulted from globalizing processes.


The impact of crime on people's lives takes many forms. Strategies and intervention programs aimed at reducing crime open draw on a mix of approaches that focus on opportunity/situational reduction; the social/developmental; and the structural/social. Opportunity reduction aims to reduce crime by reducing the opportunity to offend; developmental approaches aim to provide initiatives to support young people and parents in the formative years in a bid to reduce delinquent behaviour in later years (Bottoms 1990); structural approaches focus on the structural base of society in terms of the reduction of poverty, inequality and exclusion (Weatherburn 2001; Hope 1997; Hughes 1998).

In Australia, crime prevention is underpinned by the view that to reduce crime requires a coordinated and coherent approach that relies on partnerships between all levels of government, the community and the business sector (Homel 2005). Described as a 'whole of government approach', or 'organisational fusion' (IPAA 2002), it relies on integrating policy with programs in order to have these parts work together (Homel 2004). Further, crime prevention strategies are delivered in different formats depending on the State or territory government.

In Western Australia, the Western Australian Community Safety and Crime Prevention Strategy emphasises that to reduce and prevent crime requires action that is sustainable, cooperative, inclusive, targeted and evidence based, and focuses on results and sharing knowledge (Community Safety and Crime Prevention Strategy 2004). This strategy acknowledges that to prevent crime requires a variety of approaches that include developmental, social and opportunity reduction programs.

The aim of this project therefore is to examine the role of an opportunity reduction program undertaken by the City of Gosnells. Specifically, the Safecity Urban Design Strategy is based on developing building designs and urban structure in order to reduce the opportunity for crimes to occur. The premise of this project is to examine the strategy's current effectiveness in reducing crime and, as a consequence, engendering some form of personal and community safety within the local government area.


Processes involved in photosynthetic CO2 acquisition were characterised for the isolated lichen photobiont Trebouxia erici (Chlorophyta, Trebouxiophyceae) and compared with Coccomyxa (Chlorophyta), ...


The difference between market value and book value of a company is attributed to Intellectual Capital (IC). This difference is as an Indicator to recognize the efficiency or inefficiency of a company. Therefore, the effective use of IC is one of the most important factors on company efficiency. IC is a group of knowledge assets and one of these knowledge assets is Corporate Social Capital (CSC). CSC is a kind of intangible assets and it is argued that the main dimensions of CSC are relevant to IC. In this paper, CSC is defined as the characteristics of the IC, Corporate Reputation (CR), and Structural Social Capital (SSC). The problems that this study has focused on are (i) absence of known and clear mechanism for assessing the impact of CSC on company efficiency, (ii) applying an indicator to assess the efficiency instead applying a set of indicators, and (iii) disregard of financial soundness as an effective element on company efficiency. Base on the problem of the study, the objectives of this study are (i) to examine the relationship between CSC and company efficiency, (ii) to determine the effects of each one of CSC's components on company efficiency, and (iii) to examine the interaction effects of variable or variables that have unexpected results on company efficiency. The data were analyzed used by (i) Multiple Regression, (ii) Post Hoc Analysis (PHA), and (iii) Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The results showed that (i) CSC has an important influence on company efficiency, (ii) Centrality, Human Capital and Financial Soundness have positive influence on company efficiency, and (iii) Research Intensity and Internal Capital have negative influence on company efficiency. Lastly, Financial Soundness can counteract the negative influences of Research Intensity and Internal Capital on company efficiency. The results of the study suggested that (i) added value of CSC to different companies in the ICT sector showed be recognized (ii) showed a theoretical model for CSC, and (iii) External Capital is substituted by company Centrality in IC. The findings of the study also show the importance of IC and CSC on company efficiency and it is recommended that CSC should be considered as an important element on company efficiency that has influence on financial statements. [Salari et. al., Vol.4 (Iss.9): September, 2016] ISSN2350-0530(O) ISSN2394-3629(P) IF: 4.321 (CosmosImpactFactor), 2.532 (I2OR) Http://www.granthaalayah.com ©International Journal of Research GRANTHAALAYAH [170-190]


Recent studies have revealed that the performance of the FCM and K-means is completely related to the distance measures. However, the literature does not provide evidence that the distance used for data-clustering is useful for image segmentation. Therefore, a comparative study of the performance of different distance measures applied to image segmentation, using the mentioned clustering methods is proposed in this work. The selection of the distance measures was based on a literature study of their benefits. As a consequence, the selected distances to be tested are Euclidean, Manhattan, Canberra, and Spearman. Since our principal goal is to compare the effectiveness of the distance, the experiment had been evaluated according to two centroids selected by the user. According to primary results, the best-rated distance employed for image segmentation is the Canberra distance.


TPS723 Background: Appendiceal carcinomas are rare with an incidence of about 0.12 cases per 1,000,000 people per year. There is limited, mostly retrospective data in the treatment of metastatic appendiceal carcinomas. Generally, fluoropyrimidine-based therapy is used in the first line, adapting regimens for metastatic colorectal cancer. However, beyond progression, no treatments have shown clear activity. In appendiceal cancer, high vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)2 expression has been correlated with poor survival. Moreover, malignant ascites has been demonstrated to have elevated levels of VEGF. Nintedanib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor of VEGFR which demonstrated activity in lung and ovarian cancer in clinical trials, and has undergone investigation in heavily pretreated metastatic colorectal cancer. Given the analogies between appendiceal and colorectal cancer and potentially ovarian cancer, and the limited information about the optimal treatment of metastatic appendiceal carcinomas, further investigation with nintedanib is warranted. Methods: This is a single arm, open label, investigator initiated, two-stage phase II trial (NCT 03287947) in metastatic appendiceal cancer patients after failure (defined as progression on or within 6 months or intolerance) of initial fluoropyrimidine-based therapy and at least one measurable site of disease. The trial started enrolling patients in June 2018, and up to 39 subjects will be enrolled. They will be treated with 200 mg of oral nintedanib twice daily and undergo disease evaluation every two months. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the disease control rate (DCR), the composite of objective response and stable disease per RECIST 1.1. Secondary objectives include evaluation of safety and toxicity, objective response rate (ORR), 6-month progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). DCR, ORR & 6-month PFS will be estimated with the corresponding 95% Clopper-Pearson confidence interval. PFS & OS will be estimated using Kaplan-Meier techniques. Exploratory objectives include evaluation of serum VEGF, ascites VEGF, hypertension and paracentesis frequency in subjects with ascites at study entry. Clinical trial information: NCT 03287947.


RAS oncoproteins are frequently mutated in pancreatic, colon and lung cancers and play a causal role in human carcinogenesis. Although it is a potentially good target for anticancer drugs development, it has been challenging to specifically target different forms of RAS using small molecules because of absence of evident target binding sites. Chemical reactivity of protein functional groups depends on the environment of a particular residue and reagent accessibility due to protein structure. We wanted to explore chemical reactivity of KRAS 4b functional groups using chemical reagents to identify novel sites for covalent and noncovalent drug development. NHS esters have been used for years for chemical modification of proteins. They are believed to selectively react with primary amino groups. However, there are reports in the literature that other nucleophilic groups such as sulfhydryl group of Cys can react with N-hydroxysuccinimide esters. It is possible that other functional groups may also react. Sulfo-NHS-acetate, sulfo-NHS-biotin and NHS-biotin were used for modification of K, HRAS proteins in GDP and GppNHp-loaded forms. To follow the extent of protein modification, MALDI-TOF MS was used. Generally, the reaction was performed until almost no unmodified protein was left. After modification the protein was digested by Glu-C and peptides were analyzed by MALDI-TOF MS and ES-MS/MS. A "modification index" (ratio of intensities of modified and unmodified peptide forms in MALDI-TOF MS spectra) was calculated to enable relative quantitation for all modified peptides. The comparison of the modification indexes for peptides derived from NHS-biotin modified KRAS and HRAS in GDP or GppNHp form suggested that GppNHp-loaded protein in general allows higher degree of modification. This suggests that there are inducible and expandable binding sites for small organic molecules that could be exploited for design of covalent and noncovalent drug leads. Acknowledgments: Supported by NCI contract HHSN261200800001E. Citation Format: Oleg Chertov, Xiaoying Ye, Timothy Waybright, Andrew G. Stephen. Probing amino acids residues chemical reactivity of KRAS 4b using N-hydroxysuccinimide esters [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Targeting RAS-Driven Cancers; 2018 Dec 9-12; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2020;18(5_Suppl):Abstract nr A02.


Abstract : Homogeneous anionic polymerization methods were employed to synthesize a diblock copolymer of the form (A)(n)-b-(B)(m) in which repeat unit A is isoprene, B is n-butylmethacrylate and b is a single unit of 1,1 diphenylethylene. Various physical-chemical characterization methods were employed to determine that the molecular weights of the A and B blocks are 80,000 and 160,000 g/mole respectively. NMR spectra indicated that the poly n-butylmethacrylate moiety is composed predominantly of syndiotactic triads. Thermal analysis and dynamic mechanical testing were used to determine the polyisoprene and poly n-butylmethacrylate glass transition temperatures, which were around -70 and 20 C respectively; the poly n-butylmethacrylate transition observed in the viscoelastic experiments was unusually broad, covering more than 75 C from onset to completion. Thin films of the diblock copolymer prepared by solvent evaporation casting methods, using a variety of solvents and a wide range of solvent evaporation rates, showed a variety of morphologies in transmission electron micrographs. Most notable among these was a structure obtained in rapid-evaporation castings which contained relatively large regions of homogeneous diblock copolymer embedded in the microphase-separated material. While these homogenized regions remain unchanged indefinitely in the bulk material at room temperature, they tend to decompose to the stable microphase-separated material upon heating or upon addition of solvent. (Author)


PURPOSE: A method for supplying an information service using location information of a mobile communication terminal is provided to track a user location of the mobile communication terminal to supply an information-on-demand service to the user, so that an advertiser can obtain a higher advertising efficiency and the user can receive useful information on the location. CONSTITUTION: A member managing server receives a member's interest list and an information transmission method from the member's mobile communication terminal(100). The member managing server supplies a previously-applied interest list to the terminal(110). The member managing server receives correction information, confirmation information or information transmission method about the interest list from the terminal(120). The member managing server transmits member information including the interest list, the information transmission method, and terminal registration information to an additional service device(150). The additional service device generates an information-on-demand service according to location information and the interest list, and transmits the information-on-demand service to the terminal according to the information transmission method.


The invention relates to a method (20) for correcting an individual behaviour for using a pair of spectacles in optimized conditions, said individual wearing frame (4). According to the invention said method comprises the following steps: - a step (24) of determining parameters that characterize the behavioural conditions of the individual using correcting means securely fastened to the frame of the frame (4) in the preceding various situations for a set time; - a step (26) of comparing said parameters with preset reference values; and - a step (28) of correcting the behaviour of the individual using detecting means (1) that are securely fastened to the said frame (4), and that trigger when the difference between a parameter and the corresponding reference value diverges beyond a preset threshold value.


Objective: To observe the clinical effects of the placement of immediate provisional fixed bridges following extraction of tooth. Methods: 18 patients with 25 extracted tooth were included in this study. The provisional fixed bridges were fabricated and placed 40 minutes after tooth extraction. The final bridges were finished 2-3 months later, the abutments were reprepared (subgingival margins) and the final bridges were placed. Results: The provisional restorations had protective effect to the extraction sockets and provided benefit to the wound cleaning and healing. The abutments and periodontal tissue were healthy. Good aesthetic and functional results were achieved with the restorations. Conclusions: Immediate provisional fixed bridges may help achieve good aesthetic and functional results.


We searched for proteins whose synthesis is enhanced by polyamines at the stationary phase of cell growth using an Escherichia coli polyamine-requiring mutant in which cell viability is greatly decreased by polyamine deficiency. The synthesis of ribosome modulation factor (RMF) was strongly enhanced by polyamines at the level of translation at the stationary phase of cell growth. In rmf mRNA, a Shine-Dalgarno (SD) sequence is located 11 nucleotides upstream of the initiation codon AUG. When the SD sequence was moved to the more common position 8 nucleotides upstream of the initiation codon, the degree of polyamine stimulation was reduced, although the level of RMF synthesis was markedly increased. Polyamine stimulation of RMF synthesis was found to be caused by a selective structural change of the bulged-out region of the initiation site of rmf mRNA. The decrease in cell viability caused by polyamine deficiency was prevented by the addition of a modified rmf gene whose synthesis is not influenced by polyamines. The results indicate that polyamines enhance cell viability of E. coli at least in part by enhancing RMF synthesis.


This paper explains the notion of credit sale and two kinds of credit sale risks, and analyzes the present situation of credit sale risks of Chinese enterprises and some fundamental reasons. Based on it, an initial point of view to reduce or prevent credit sale risks of enterprises is put forward as follows: for such enterprises that have not established standard credit management system, they should develop appropriate credit information management system as early as possible; for others which have developed credit information management system, they should timely renew customers' credit information and improve it. By establishing and continuously improving this system, Chinese enterprises not only increase their ability to prevent credit risks, but also raise their competition and the recovery rate of account, thereby finally realize their sustainable development.


Abstract : The study of crisis research can give information on two issues in the methodology of social science: the decision to translate a research idea into actual practice, and the nature of the background of the research which preserves the ephemeral data of historical events. The study was done with the social scientists who conducted research on the assassination of President Kennedy and a matched control sample of other social scientists. The positions and interests of the critical and control groups differed little. In fact, a majority of the control group was interested in crisis research and even had thought about doing a study of the Kennedy assassination. Organizational pressures seemed little effective as a reason for doing research. Descriptions by the critical group of how they engaged in their study showed a strong connection to current research and a quick start of the actual research process. The principal factor which seems to account for the action taken by the critical group is the evaluation taken of the role of the scientist. The control group is less interested in personal prestige and more in communication. Further the critical group was more inclined to take risks. This showed itself in the attitude toward research techniques, toward basic research as a risk-taking enterprise and in gambling on financial support for their studies.


Background Although life expectancy has improved for many rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, serious infection is one of the major causes of mortality. Undernutrition is widely known to be a risk factor for infection; however, the association between undernutrition and infection in RA patients is not well known. Objectives The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors associated with infection requiring hospitalisation in RA patients. Methods We retrospectively analysed data obtained from 74 patients with RA (male, n=21; female, n=53; age 74.7±12.6), who were admitted to our hospital between 2016 and 2017 for infection (infection group). Among the patients who experienced multiple infections during this time, only the first infection was included in this study. We also recruited control RA patients (n=222) who were matched for age, gender and disease duration, with a match ratio of 1:3 (non-infection group). The details of the patients' infections, clinical characteristics (including nutritional conditions), and RA treatment were obtained from their clinical records. The nutritional condition was assessed based on the body mass index (BMI), serum albumin (Alb) level, total lymphocyte count (TLC), haemoglobin (Hb) level, controlling nutrition status (CONUT) score, and prognostic nutritional index (PNI). Differences between each group were compared using a nonparametric Wilcoxon's rank sum test for continuous variables and Fisher's exact test for categorical variables. Multiple regression analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with the development of serious infection. We selected seven candidate factors: Steinbrocker's classification (Stage)≥III, BMI≥18.5, CONUT score ≥5, DAS28-ESR≥3.2, use of methotrexate, use of prednisolone, use of biologics. Results The respiratory tract was the most frequent site of infection (n=33, 44.6%), followed by the urinary tract (n=14, 18.9%), skin (n=13, 17.6%), bones and joints (n=5, 6.8%), and gastrointestinal tract (n=3, 4.1%). Seven patients died during hospitalisation for infection, in spite of treatment. Relative to the non-infection group, the BMI (20.9±4.1 vs. 22.0±3.4, p=0.036), Alb (3.3±0.7 vs. 3.9±0.4 g/dL, p<0.001), TLC (1190±574 vs. 1328±526/μL, p=0.008), Hb (11.1±1.9 vs. 12.3±1.5 g/dL, p<0.001), and PNI (55.4±8.0 vs. 60.4±8.0, p<0.001) values were significantly lower, and the CONUT score (4.1±2.7 vs. 1.9±1.5, p<0.001) was significantly higher in the infection group. In addition, the DAS 28-ESR (3.5±1.2 vs. 2.9±1.1, p=0.001), dose of prednisolone (4.6±3.4 vs. 2.3±2.3, p<0.001), and rate of biologics usage (33.8 vs. 21.2%, p=0.041) were higher, while the dose of methotrexate (1.6±3.2 vs. 3.2±4.0, p=0.002) was lower in the infection group. The multiple regression analysis revealed that the CONUT score (odds ratio [OR], 62.9; 95% credible interval [CrI], 7.9 to 500.0), use of prednisolone (OR, 6.7; CrI, 2.2 to 20.7), and use of biologics (OR, 3.9; CrI,1.7 to 9.3) were significant risk factors for serious infection. Conclusions Multiple factors were found to be associated with infection in RA patients. The improvement of nutrition may have a beneficial effect with regard to the prevention of infection during the care of RA patients. Disclosure of Interest None declared


This research aimed to show different reactions of Callista umbonella in the oxidative stress caused by hydrocarbon pollution in sediments with different grain size. Regarding the differences in Porosity, Permeability and Penetrability in sandy shores, the grain size is an important factor that changes the severity of pollution caused by oxidative stress. In this research, we investigated the total length size of bivalve shell and values of antioxidant enzymes (GPx, GR, SOD and CAT) in soft tissue of C. umbonella in shores of three industrial sites (Site 1, Site 2 and site 5) and two control sites (site 3, site 4). Collected samples fixed rapidly in liquid nitrogen. The enzymes were extracted using perpendicular force and measured by spectrophotometry analysis. The values of SOD and CAT showed a positive and significant correlation (P˂ 0.05) as well as GR and GPx during the research. With average of 47.08 (±4.7) mm, Site 4 showed largest sample records in length size (±SD) but samples records on Site 1 with average length (±SD), 37.72 (±3.9) mm were in minimum scale. The results showed that metabolic reaction of C. umbonella, for controlling the oxidative stress of being exposed to the pollution in sediments with higher porosity was decreasing the metabolism, while the reaction in sediment with higher permeability was vice versa. Finally, according to the results, C. umbonella showed better growth in clean sediments with the high porosity.


Results from the separation and characterization of nitrogen compound types in hydrotreated Paraho shale oil samples were obtained. Two samples of Paraho shale oil were hydrotreated by Chevron Research Company such that one sample contained about 0.05 wt. percent nitrogen and the other sample contained about 0.10 wt. percent nitrogen. A separation method concentrate specific nitrogen compound types was developed. Characterization of the nitrogen types was accomplished by infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, potentiometric titration, and elemental analysis. The distribution of nitrogen compound types in both samples and in the Paraho crude shale oil is compared.


We propose an algorithm for determining light-path configuration order to minimize the reconfiguration time from a disrupted state to a suboptimal state. It computes a near-optimal solution within one minute on a 1000-node network.


Object Using height of vertical jump as index,to revealed the effect of different sets of weight training.Methods subjects divided into three groups randomly,each group carried weight squat one set,three sets,or six sets using 8 repetition maximum weight,two times per week persioting ten weeks.Experimentize height of vertical jump at the begin of training,the 4th week,the 7th and 10th week of training.Results no significant difference in height of vertical jump between the three groups,but the percent of jump height increase distinguished significantly in groups carried weight squat three sets and six sets.Conclusion in ten weeks training session,compare with one set weight training,multiple sets does not put up superior effect on the enhance of the height of vertical jump.


The actuality of the agriculture products processing industry in Hubei province was analyzed in this paper and,according to the analysis,the strategic choices during the "11th five years" were proposed,which includes the goals,agriculture resources,technology and development model of agriculture products processing.The proposed strategic choices provide a good consult to the layout of the development in agriculture products processing industry and related science and technology for Hubei province in the future.


Abstract Background Invasive aspergillosis (IA) causes significant morbidity and mortality in lung transplant (LTx) recipients. Antifungal resistance in Aspergillus species is on the rise globally with specific concern in Europe related to the TR34/L98H mutation in the cyp51A enzyme that induces pan-azole resistance. Azole exposure is a known risk factor for development of resistant Aspergillus, but this is less well described in LTx population. Methods We reviewed the electronic medical records of LTx patients with respiratory cultures positive for Aspergillus species known to be inherently resistant or any Aspergillus species tested to be resistant to one or more triazole from 2010 to 2019. For available isolates, Sanger sequencing was performed on cyp51A with primers targeting the promoter region and 3 known hotspot areas. Results Twenty eight patients met inclusion criteria and 2.7% (28/1026) Aspergillus isolates were azole-resistant during study period (Figure 1). Median time from LTx to resistant Aspergillus growth was 196 days (range 14 - 3146). There was a cluster of positive cultures within 1-year post-Tx period (13/28). Azole exposure varied, from 7 to 2443 days (median 128). There was no change in incidence over the study period. The most common species was Aspergillus calidoustus (Figure 2). Twenty cases were deemed colonization, vs 5 probable IFI and 3 proven IFI. Mortality of IFI with resistant Aspergillus was 38% (3/8), higher than azole-susceptible IA (p=0.05). Twelve isolates were available for sequencing; none carried TR34/L98H mutation. There was wide variation in mutations, ranging from 1 to 12 point mutations in the cyp51 enzyme, many of them SNPs previously described as engendering an azole resistant phenotype (Figure 3). Aspergillosis-free Survival by Resistant and Susceptible Isolates Development of azole-resistant aspergillus colonization/infection was rare relative to common occurrence of colonization/infection with susceptible isolates in the lung transplant recipient population Azole Resistant Aspergillus Species Isolated from Lung Transplant Recipients The most commonly isolated species were A. calidoustus and ustus. Only 4/28 isolates were A. fumigatus. Azole Resistant Aspergillus Genotypic Analysis Sequenced isolates showed wide variability in point mutations. M220V, G54, and G448 were the only mutations observed more than once. 3 isolates were wild type. Conclusion Azole resistant Aspergillus infections remain an uncommon problem in LTx. The majority of isolates were deemed colonization, but mortality was high when IFI was present. Most isolates had mutations within the hot spot regions of cyp51A known to induce azole resistance. There were no TR34/L98H mutants found in our patient population. Disclosures Minh-Hong Nguyen, MD, Merck (Grant/Research Support)


An automated system that injects medication into the vitreous humor of the eye (intravitreally) is proposed in this work. By providing a robotic injection system with an integrated local sterile environment, we can increase safety for patients, decrease procedure times, allow for integrated data storage and documentation, and reduce costs for medical staff and expensive operating rooms. The intended system allows for an assisted injection that is initiated via a computer and monitored by a remote ophthalmic surgeon via a visual-auditory communication system. As the injection needle is guided through software, including eye-tracking and iris recognition, the only component that touches the eye is the injection needle. Precision and safety are fundamental to the system design and do not depend on the manual dexterity of medical staff using a hand-held system.


This paper describes an algorithm that will yield an optimum sequence for n jobs requiring processing through M machines when no passing is allowed. Theoretical development utilizing combinatorial analysis precedes the algorithm and an example problem.


Background. Understanding and modeling high-order chromatin organization is a fundamental problem in computational genomics. Chromosome fold into complex shapes by itself mostly by following rules written in the genomic sequence. People have been studying the process closely trying to discover the rules from measured interaction frequencies in Hi-C matrix. Following recent success in using deep learning to model point interactions such as enhancer-promoter interactions directly from genomic sequence, there seems to be similar pathway from genomic sequence to general Hi-C interactions, which leads to modeling general rules behind high-order chromatin interactions.


Particle filter (PF) is widely used in mobile robot localization, since it is suitable for nonlinear non-Gaussian system. In order to get rid of the bug that the performance of traditional PF is seriously dependent on the selection of proposal distribution, we put forward a unscented particle filter (UPF) algorithm by importing the unscented Kalman filter (UKF) to generate the proposal distribution, which means using a series of confirmed samples to approximate the posterior probability density function of the state. Thus the generated proposal distribution will approximate the real posterior probability density function much better, and the quality of the traditional PF will get improved. The simulation result shows that the performance of improved algorithm is better than the traditional particle filter although the run time is longer.


With the rise of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), AI has increasingly become a partner to human designers in co-creating cultural artifacts. While generative models have been applied in various creative tasks across disciplines, a theoretical foundation for understanding human-GAN collaboration is yet to be developed. Drawing from the mixed-initiative co-creation community, we propose a preliminary framework to analyze co-creative GAN applications. We identify four primary interaction patterns: Curating , Exploring , Evolving , and Conditioning . The suggested framework enables us to discuss the affordances and limitations of the different kind of interactions underlying co-creative GAN applications


A simple, efficient numerical procedure is presented for the analysis of the steady-state dynamic response of rigid foundations of arbitrary shape on a homogeneous, isotropic elastic half-space. The contact area of the foundation and soil medium is discretized into square subregions. The influence of the rigid square subregion is approximated by that of an equivalent rigid circular base with the same contact area. This approximation is a better representation of a rigid square subregion than a uniformly stressed subregion used in earlier approaches. Simple expressions are used to determine the influence of the subregion on itself and on the rest of the subregions, without the expense of numerical integration procedures. The present method is demonstrated to converge rapidly. The accuracy of this method is examined by comparison with available published theoretical and experimental results.


This essay proposes a reflection on the relationship between translation and poetic text under the derridean deconstruction view. Translation and poetic event are recurrent and interrelated themes in Jacques Derrida's work. If deconstruction is, on the one hand, a question of translation, the poem is the passion for the impossible that feeds the deconstructive movement in its endlessness. Following the tissue through which translation and the literary imbue Derrida's work, the reflection herein proposed revisits derridean themes in the context of this interplay, aiming at a rereading and a rediscovery of these two questions that present themselves as being as irresistible as they are impossible.


Designing With Solar Power encapsulates five years of work by over thirty international experts from the fields of research, development and design. Photovoltaic (PV) power's potential for wide distribution makes it a unique and novel energy source that can be embedded within the fabric of individual buildings, shifting power generation away from being large scale and regionally located. As a consequence, an abundantly available, clean and silent electrical supply can be introduced into cities, towns and built-up areas. This in-depth highly illustrated publication shows a clear path to the way of designing with photovoltaic in buildings and is very important for any designer or individual that wishes to keep up with this new and exciting technology.


In this paper, we contrast the two tasks of named entity extraction from speech and text both qualitatively and quantitatively in the context of the DARPA 1998 Hub4e-IE evaluation. We will present some top level observations and a detailed engineering analysis of our system's failures and successes. We explore the effects of word error rate, loss of textual clues, amount of training data, changes in guidelines, and out-of-vocabulary errors.


A new method to design capacitive weighted interdigital transducer is adopted for simplicity,of which differential value of two weighted capacitive coupled a pair of fingers is regarded as evolutionary object and the minimum value of maximal differential value between objective frequency response and frequency response of capacitive weighted interdigital transducer on 1601 frequency value in corresponding frequency rang as evolutionary target.The capacitive weighted interdigital transducer is obtained after ranking selection,crossover and mutation operation.Evolutionary experiment shows that objective frequency response is near coincidence to frequency response of capacitive weighted interdigital transducer obtained by evolutionary design.The evolutionary design is correct,efficient and practical.


BACKGROUND Bleomycin foam is an effective sclerotherapy method for venous malformations. The preparation method is rather complicated, and the volume and stability of the foam are limited. OBJECTIVE To modify the currently used method for preparing bleomycin foam, to simplify the preparation procedure, and to produce foam with greater volume and increased stability. MATERIALS AND METHODS Experiment 1: 6.0 IU of bleomycin powder was dissolved in different human serum albumin (HSA):saline solution (SS) ratios of 0.5:1.5, 0.75:1.25, 1:1, 1.25:0.75, 1.5:0.5, 1.75:0.25, and 2:0 in volume; then, an air:liquid ratio of 2:1 was used to create foam using the Tessari method. Experiment 2: 6.0 IU of bleomycin was dissolved directly in 2.0 mL of HSA; then, air:liquid ratios of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1 were used to create foam using the Tessari method. The optimum proportions of HSA:SS and air:liquid were screened by comparing the foam half-life (FHL). RESULTS Experiment 1: the optimum proportion of HSA:SS was 2:0, and the FHL was 7.5 minutes. Experiment 2: the optimum proportion of air:liquid was 3:1, and the FHL was 9.0 minutes. CONCLUSION The modified method is simpler and could produce more stable bleomycin foam with greater volume.


Modern industry with its high degree of specialization and interdependence of operations, requires regular and prompt attendance of all workers. In mass production industries, almost every production process is dependent upon other processes and an unexpected absence of an employee in a particular department may result in a drastic dislocation of production in another department or even in the entire plant. Absenteeism is one of the factors affecting optimum utilization of human resources. It is an industrial malady affecting productivity, profits, investments and absentee workers themselves. As such, increasing rate of absence adds very considerably to the cost of industry and hampers industrial progress. The absence of a few workmen is an imposition on others, affects work scheduling and adds to costs that push the price of absenteeism far beyond


PURPOSE:To provide a circuit board connector which is stably held connected electrically to a circuit on a board. CONSTITUTION:A terminal 4 is attached to a terminal holding portion 3 which is combined with a hood portion 2 to constitute a connector housing, and the terminal 4 is pressed into contact with an electrode land 15 on a fixed board 10 to achieve conduction between a circuit on the board and the terminal 4. This structure enables a difference in thermal expansion and the like between the terminal and the board to be absorbed by the sliding movement of a curve 4a above the electrode land 15 and by an increase or decrease in the elastic deformation of the rear end of the terminal.


The elastic response of a solid sphere to a continuous train of plane waves is shown to consist principally of rotational waves, rather like smoke rings, where the rotational motion of a particular wave is centered at points on an annulus perpendicular to the axis of sound propagation. The rotational waves are most clearly evidenced in the standing modes of free vibration of the sphere, with the waves meshing together like a system of gears. Calculated plots of the displacement vector show how these modes are excited in the sphere by incident sound, and how, during a cycle of the excitation, a first harmonic briefly changes into the nearest fundamental as it changes direction during the oscillation. Other results are presented, including a demonstration that the rotational waves also occur in solid cylinders, with the rotation centered at points along lines parallel to the cylinder axis. It is speculated that the rotational waves occur in any closed body.


This study attempted to examine the relationship between teacher support and migrant children's academic achievement as well as the mediating role of self-esteem and the moderating role of psychological control. Six hundred and six migrant children participated in the study and the teacher support they perceived and their self-esteem were measured. Their academic achievements were acquired from the school dean's office. Results showed that:1) Positive self-esteem mediated the positive relation between teacher support and migrant children's academic achievement; 2) Psychological control moderated the relation between teacher support and positive self-esteem, such that the relation was weaker when the level of psychological control is high rather than low; 3) Psychological control moderated the mediating effect of positive self-esteem on teacher support–migrant children's academic achievement relationship, such that the mediating effect was weaker when the level of psychological control was high. Keywords-Teacher support; Academic achievement; Positive self-esteem; Psychological control


The ubiquity of the Internet has stimulated the development of datarather than processor-intensive applications. Such data-intensive applications include streaming media, interactive distance learning, and live web-casts. While plenty of research has focused on the real-time delivery of media streams to various subscribers, no solutions have been proposed that provide per-subscriber QoS guarantees to hundreds of thousands of subscribers distributed on an Internet scale. Moreover, there has been no successful approach that integrates heterogeneous end-hosts into a distributed system, connected via an overlay network, for the purpose of QoS-constrained data processing and delivery. This paper proposes a pipelined distributed system that is the foundation for the delivery of QoS constrained datastreams over a scalable backbone consisting of heterogeneous commodity-off-the-shelf (COTS) systems. To provide a scalable routing substrate that can adapt to QoS demands and constraints, a peer-to-peer (P2P) overlay topology is constructed consisting of the end-hosts of the system. Further, end-hosts leverage a technique called user-level sandboxing, that enables application-specific stream processing agents (SPAs) to be deployed on various hosts in the system. These SPAs can be used to process and route data according to application-level service requirements without the need for explicit scheduling or data-copying overheads. Collectively, these research endeavors provide the mechanisms by which a distributed data-stream processing system on the scale of the Internet can be realized.


The Short Baseline Near Detector (SBND) is one of three liquid argon (LAr) neutrino detectors sitting in the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB) at Fermilab as part of the Short Baseline Neutrino (SBN) program. The detector is in a cryostat holding 260-ton of LAr and consists of four 2.5 m (L) $\times$ 4 m (W) Anode Plane Assembles (APAs) and two Cathode Plane Assemblies (CPAs), which leads to 11,264 Time Projection Chamber (TPC) readout channels and two separate 2 m long drift regions. As an enabling technology, Cold Electronics (CE) developed for cryogenic temperature operation makes possible an optimum balance among various design and performance requirements for such large sized detectors. Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) has been leading the R&D and implementation of the entire front-end CE system for LAr TPC readout in collaboration with other SBND institutes. The front-end readout electronics system includes the cold front-end electronics placed close to the wire electrodes, which detects and digitizes the charge signal in LAr, as well as the warm interface electronics placed on the signal feed-through flange outside of the cryostat, which further organizes and transmits the digitized signal to the DAQ system. An extensive study of electronics suitable for 77 K - 300 K, including the custom designed front-end ASIC and commercial components, e.g. ADC and FPGA, has been made to meet requirements such as low noise, low power consumption, high reliability and long lifetime. Furthermore, an integral design concept of APA, CE, feed-through, warm interface electronics with local diagnostics, grounding and isolation rules has been practiced with vertical slice test stands to make projection of the CE performance in the SBND detector.


The results of a study of slug flow dynamics in air injected milkline Clean-In-Place (CIP) systems are presented. Experimental measurements of slug velocity, slug length, and air admission rate made on 48, 73, and 98 mm ID milklines are presented. The air injector must be left open long enough for the slug to travel the entire milkline in order to ensure contact between the slug and all pipe surfaces. Optimal mechanical cleaning action is produced by slug velocities of 7 to 10 m/s. The rate of air admission through the air injector should be controlled to produce superficial air velocity of 8 to 12 m/s to achieve these slug velocities.


If you thought getting "goosed" was bad, consider what happens when an ostrich starts thinking of you as a potential sexual partner. That's what's happening as British farmers begin raising ostriches. Researchers think the birds imprint on their owners and stop seeing their own kind as mates


In this work, novel thin-film nanocomposite (TFN) nanofiltration (NF) membranes were developed through modification with maleic anhydride functionalized graphene oxide (MAH-GO) via interfacial polymerization (IP). First, MAH-GO was synthesized by linking MAH molecules to the electrophilic groups (C–OH) of GO nanosheets. The resulting materials were characterized in depth by FT-IR, TEM, SEM, AFM, XPS and Raman spectroscopy. Subsequently, the MAH-GO and GO nanosheets were individually introduced into the polypiperazine-amide (PPA) active layer of TFN NF membranes via IP between piperazine (PIP) and trimesoyl chloride (TMC). The influence of the MAH-GO or GO concentrations on the morphology and performance of TFN NF membranes was systematically investigated. Compared with TFC-blank, the TFN-MG-60 and TFN-GO-80 membranes demonstrated significantly enhanced separation performance without reduction of the salt rejection. Particularly, the water flux of TFN-MG-60 and TFN-GO-80 was found to be 49.3 L m−2 h−1 and 42.0 L m−2 h−1, respectively, corresponding to 176.7% and 150.5% of TFC-blank. Moreover, TFN-MG-60 demonstrated superior water permeability, antifouling capability and chlorine resistance to TFN-GO-80, which was attributed to the incorporation of MAH-GO nanosheets having more hydrophilic carboxyl groups. Meanwhile, TFN-MG-60 retained a high salt rejection rate of 97.6% to Na2SO4, comparable to that of TFC-blank. The MAH-GO nanosheets show great potential in developing high-performance TFN NF membranes to overcome the trade-off effect of conventional thin-film composite membranes.


This article describes the study of the Koryak language that belongs to the Chukotko-Kamchatkan family of the Paleosiberian languages. Koryak has been alphabetized fairly recently; moreover, there are very few native speakers of Koryak left nowadays, which determines the need in researching this language. The goal of the study is to collect the corpus of Koryak folk tales which would thereby initiate the creation of classified electronic database of the Koryak language. At the present stage the data obtained during the corpus collection are being analyzed, namely the noun derivation analysis is being undertaken. The results of this work are presented in this paper. Based on the corpus data the most productive models of nominal affixation has been specified and evidence is given as to which models are typical for the language in general and which are specific only for folklore texts. Explanation is given why these affixation models are more frequent than others.


Students often arrive at university producing stilted and passive conversations based on patterns learned from junior high school onwards. While grammatically correct, these patterns are often completely divorced from the reality of serious communication. Speaking classes for first-year students therefore present a golden opportunity for students to start asking themselves critically, "Does it make sense for me to say this?" Functioning with a degree of pragmatic competence is an essential step for learners in becoming skilled English users, equally comfortable communicating overseas or with non-Japanese at home. This article proposes (a) a conversation model as a safety net for novice speakers, (b) conversation strategies to correct five common pragmatic errors such as introducing topics at the wrong time, failure to announce topic change, ineffective listening leading to inappropriate questions, the policeman interview, the spotlight performance, and failure to end conversations appropriately, and (c) functions of conversation that generate student content and stay away from junior high school level topics. We also provide examples of real exchanges that took place in the classroom to show how pragmatic competence develops.

大学生は、中学校以来学習してきたパターンに基づいた堅苦しく、受動的な会話をすることが多い。それは文法的には正しいが、自然な会話とは言い難い。1年生のスピーキングのクラスは、学生が自分の発話に対して「これで意味が通っているのか?」と考えながら話し始める絶好の機会である。一定の語用論的能力を身につけることは学習者にとって、英語を習得するため、つまり海外で不自由なく英語を話し、また自国で日本人以外の人と意思疎通ができるようになるために必要不可欠な過程である。本論では、次の3点を提案する。(1)初心者のための模範的会話、(2)よく見られる5つの語用論間違い、例えばトピックを導入するタイミングが不適切であったり、トピックを変えることに失敗したり、聞き取りミスから不適切な質問をしたり、警察官的な質問をしたり、会話を一方的に取ったり、また会話の終わり方が適切でなかったりというようなエラーをしないための会話のストラテジー、(3)中学校レベルの話題から脱却し、大学生らしい内容のある、目的に応じた会話。また、教室内での実際のやり取りの例を使って、語用論的能力がどのように伸びていくかを例証したい。


T he photoelectric effect—the emission of an electron upon absorption of a single photon—is the most basic manifestation of the interaction between light and matter. First explained by Einstein in 1905, it demonstrated the discrete nature of light, posing a crucial step in the development of quantum mechanics. But what happens exactly as an electron is ionized by a photon? How fast and by what mechanisms does it leave the trapping potential of the atoms or molecules to which it was bound? Physicist Eugene Wigner developed the theory to describe the process in the 1950s [1]. But until recently, no experimental probe was fast enough to catch the dynamics of electrons. The advent of attosecond (1 as = 10−18 s) metrology is finally allowing researchers to probe electron ionization dynamics in real time.


ABSTRACT Alterity, the difference that being-other makes, is not an overt theme in the writing of Ueda Shizuteru, and yet by bringing alterity to the fore we are able to connect and examine several themes that Ueda does engage explicitly. It will turn out that several models of alterity are discernable in Ueda's philosophy, and their common ground opens a mode of being-other that offers an alternative to dominant models of irreducible difference. Ueda's philosophy of language suggests four alternative configurations that increasingly allow for the dual emergence of authentic otherness and selfhood. Those configurations are intimated in his interpretations of Nishida's pure experience, of the interplay of language and silence, of a dialogue envisioned in a Zen oxherding picture, and of the poetic form known as linked verse, which best models how discrete beings help create a world in common.


Layered transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanomaterials have emerged as promising alternatives to platinum (Pt) for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the family of layered TMDs is mainly limited to Group IV-VII transition metals, while the synthesis of other group metals based layered TMDs still remains a challenge. Herein, for the first time, we demonstrate by atomic-resolution transmission electron microscopy that hexagonal RuSe2 (h-RuSe2) nanosheets with the mixture of 2H and 1T phases, a new member of layered TMDs family, can be obtained by a facile bottom-up colloidal synthetic approach. The obtained h-RuSe2, which can be transferred into the thermodynamically favorable phase of cubic RuSe2 (c-RuSe2) only after annealing at 600 °C, exhibits Pt-like HER performance, with a 5-fold turnover frequency enhancement compared to the c-RuSe2 under alkaline media. Experimental results and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the enhanced adsorption free energies of H2O (ΔGH2O*), optimized adsorption free energies of H (ΔGH*) and increased conductivity of h-RuSe2 contribute to its superior HER activity.


Cancer associated thrombosis is well known in patients with cancer. Following proximal DVT, post thrombotic syndrome is prevalent. Our patient with history of colon cancer presented with proximal DVT with extreme swelling of the leg and treated successfully with Angio Jet Zelante DVT catheter, a procedure which is safe and effective.


Typhoon Yolanda hit the Visayas region of the Philippines on 8 November 2013. With wind speeds reaching 315 km/h, the storm remains one of the strongest and most destructive typhoons ever to make landfall (Santos, 2013). This article focuses on how the concept of 'resilience' was articulated and experienced post-Typhoon Yolanda (international name Haiyan) with reference to the rebuilding and rehabilitation efforts in Tacloban City. Tacloban is the administrative center of the Eastern Visayas (Region VIII) in the Philippines and one of the most heavily urbanized areas to be devastated by Yolanda. This city was chosen as the focus for this article as it became the 'exemplary center' of the relief and rehabilitation effort. It stands as a 'microcosm' (Geertz, 1980: 13) of the institutional and logistical practices common in urban lower and middle-income post-disaster scenarios. Arguably, these practices perpetuate social inequality, operate against a backdrop of 'status pride' (Geertz, 1980: 13) and re-materialize power in ways that consolidate the status quo and profit seeking norms.


A chiral long-period grating (CLPG) was fabricated successfully by scanning CO2 laser in a twisted conventional single-mode fiber. The strong mode coupling can be achieved in a short grating length. The sensing characteristics of the CLPGs were investigated experimentally. Compared with the conventional long-period fiber gratings, the CLPGs were found to have the similar temperature and refractive index sensitivities and much higher torsion, bending, and strain sensitivities. The high sensitivity of the CLPG can be attributed to the screw-type waveguide structure induced by the scanning laser in the twisted fiber. The proposed CLPGs could have great potential applications as filters and optical sensors.


The first aim of this paper is to show that a polynomially demicompact operator
satisfying certain conditions is demicompact. Furthermore, we give a refinement of the
Schmo¨eger and the Rakocevi´c essential spectra of a closed linear operator involving the class of demicompact ones. The second aim of this work is devoted to provide some sufficient
conditions on the inputs of a closable block operator matrix to ensure the demicompactness
of its closure. An example involving the Caputo derivative of fractional of order α is provided.
Moreover, a study of the essential spectra and an investigation of some perturbation results


A chemical compound of formula (I) wherein: R1 and R2 are independently selected from hydrogen and alkyl; R3 is alkyl; R4 and R5 are selected from hydrogen and alkyl; R6 and R7 are independently selected from hydrogen, halogen, hydroxyl, alkyl, aryl, amino, alkylamino, dialkylamino, alkoxy, aryloxy, alkylthio, alkylsulfoxyl, alkylsulfonyl, nitro, carbonitrile, carbo-alkoxy, carbo-aryloxy and 30 carboxyl; and A is a 5- or 6-membered optionally containing one or more heteroatoms, wherein the ring atoms A, other than the unsaturated carbon atoms of the phenyl ring to which ring A is fused, are saturated or unsaturated, and pharmaceutically acceptable addition compounds thereof salts, wherein said alkyl groups, aryl groups and ring a may be substituted or unsubstituted wherein said alkyl groups are selected from saturated hydrocarbon radicals or unsaturated, acyclic C1 to C10 cyclic C3 to C12, and said aryl groups are selected from phenyl, naphthyl, pyridyl, pyrrolyl, quinolinyl, furanyl, thienyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl, oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, pyrazolyl, triazolyl, imidazolyl or pyrimidinyl.


Thin-layer Navier-Stokes calculations for wing-fuselage configurations from subsonic to hypersonic flow regimes are now possible. However, efficient, accurate solutions for using these codes for two- and three-dimensional high-lift systems have yet to be realized. A brief overview of salient experimental and computational research is presented. An assessment of the state-of-the-art relative to high-lift system analysis and identification of issues related to grid generation and flow physics which are crucial for computational success in this area are also provided. Research in support of the high-lift elements of NASA's High Speed Research and Advanced Subsonic Transport Programs which addresses some of the computational issues is presented. Finally, fruitful areas of concentrated research are identified to accelerate overall progress for high lift system analysis and design.


Abstract: Effects of residual feed intake (RFI) and genetic group on growth, carcass, and meat quality characteristics of bovine longissimus lumborum (LL), triceps brachii (TB), semimembranosus (SM), and gluteus medius (GM) muscles were investigated using 72 purebred Angus, purebred Charolais, and Angus crossbred steers (n = 24 per genetic group) classified as either high (inefficient) or low (efficient) RFI (n = 12 high and low RFI steers within genetic group). There was no RFI effect (P > 0.05) on growth, carcass, and meat quality measurements except high RFI steers had the highest dry matter intake (P < 0.05), and low RFI TB was rated as having reduced beef flavour intensity and sustained juiciness (P < 0.05). Purebred Angus and Charolais LL and GM had lower shear force values (P < 0.05) than Angus crossbreds and ageing reduced mean shear force values except in TB. For TB, SM, and GM, Angus crossbred steers had the highest mean beef flavour intensity scores, and Charolais SM and TB were less tender than those of Angus crossbred (P < 0.05). Overall, RFI did not influence most meat quality traits; therefore, low RFI animals may contribute to reducing feed costs or environmental impact without compromising meat quality and palatability.


(1) Background: We analyzed the diatom community structure of the surface sediments, in three permanent ponds in the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil, to better understand how biota in these aquatic environments depend on structural connectivity and functional connectivity: (2) Methods: Ten samples sites were established in each pond, water and the sediment were taken during the flood period. Abiotic–biotic variables were determined and standardized; (3) Results: The three ponds presented acidic water and high concentration of nitrogen, with the highest acidity for Ferradura Pond (P1) and the highest trophic status index for Burro Pond (P2), but the greatest environmental variations occurred in Caracará Pond (P3). The variation in diversity between sites in the same pond is what contributes the most to gamma diversity. The most abundant species was Aulacoseiraitalica (Ehrenberg) Simonsen and the genus Eunotia Ehrenberg was the most representative in species. Ferradura Pond, there was a relationship between compositional and environmental dissimilarities with geographic distance, but there was no independent. Burro Pond, the relationship the compositional variation with environmental variables was not significant. Caracará Pond, there was a relationship of compositional dissimilarity both with geographical distance and with environmental; (4) Conclusions: The set of results suggests that the mechanisms that determine the metacommunity of each pond are different and that the environmental conditions and dispersion influenced the structure and composition. Since, diatom species were different between ponds, and ponds more eutrophic showed less diversity. The pH and oligotrophy were the main factors to maintain the greatest diversity of species of the genus Eunotia and the greatest abundance of Aulacoseira italica. Knowing the dynamics and structure of diatoms, which are at the beginning of the food chain, is essential for conserving, maintaining, or rehabilitating wetland ecosystems, such as the Pantanal, which is part La Plata river basin, which represents the second largest surface for water resources in South America and the Guarani Aquifer System, the biggest unified groundwater aquifer in the world.


Since in 2011, the German Federal Court of Justice has ruled in favour of a company that was an indirect victim of a cartel, actions for damages regarding violations of competition law are…


Modernization can be analyzed in many perspectives, of which the construction of ideology is the most fundamental one. However there were not great achievements in the concerned area in the study of modern China's modernization. XUE Fucheng was one of the representative figures of Westernization Movement. His view of technology can be regarded as the embryo thoughts of modern China's modernization. It composed of mainly two aspects: more attention was paid to the origins of technology and technical ideas, considerations were given to the functions and significance of technology in the need of modernization. Despite the many constraints in XUE Fucheng's view of technology, his view is still of enlightenment and reference for the construction of modernization today with its outstanding knowledge and deep insight.


PC-based economical remote control systems have been operated for distribution lines in 16 branch offices of Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). Based on a personal computer with WindowsNT, supervisory control and recording with full-graphic CRT has attained the level of completion. Using newly developed automatic switches with a fault indicator (FI), operators can easily locate the fault section between "yes and no FI response". For the reduction of cost, the control devices of existing facilities such as recloser, auto-section switch, and SF/sub 6/ gas-insulated switch are revised to be remote controlled. Hand-operated switches will be gradually exchanged with automatic ones. Wireless data communication service in 8 B/Os of civil area and telephone line in the other 8 B/Os of rural area are applied for the communication media. Also, the cable TV network owned by KEPCO itself is on the field test in a downtown area to prove the reliability.