We report the high-resolution patterning achieved by the laboratory-scale micro-exposure tool for extreme ultraviolet projection lithography realized at the ENEA Frascati Research Center in the frame of a National Project. Such a result obtained using a laser-produced-plasma source, a couple of twin ellipsoidal collectors and a low-cost Schwarzschild-type projection optics shows that it is possible to attain a nanometer-scale spatial resolution using relatively inexpensive projection optics.


An adaptive, implicit, multi-resolution time-domain method is applied to solve the integro-differential equations arising from the canonical thin wire scattering problems. The Haar wavelet system is adopted for the basis functions to decompose the induced current along the wire due to an input electric field. Both algorithms are discussed for straight thin wire and arbitrary thin wire problems. Results from our implicit marching-on-time algorithm using Haar wavelet basis functions are compared with those from pulse basis functions.


Vienna was the world capital of psychoanalysis in the early 1900s, stimulating a burgeoning interest in the mind. Yet, these intellectual movements would be supplanted by statesponsored repression after Nazi Germany's annexation of Austria in 1938 (the Anschluss). Vienna's Steinhof Hospital for psychiatric patients encapsulated these conflicting paradigms, providing a venue first for enlightened aspirations and subsequently for physician-assisted atrocities. As Vienna hosts the 2023 World Congress of Psychiatry, we wish to highlight Steinhof's poignant legacy, which should serve to reinforce the importance of compassion and human rights in contemporary care. Founded in 1907, Steinhof represented psychiatric ideals circulating around fin de siècle Vienna and beyond. The hospital was predicated on modernist plans following consultations between the architect Otto Wagner (1841–1918) and other stakeholders. Wagner's schemes promoted symbiotic connections between mental health and architecture, challenging conventional prison-like settings; notably, only 50 years before Steinhof's foundation, patients were routinely held in chains in Vienna's Narrenturm (mad tower). Wagner sought to create conducive therapeutic environments by combining functionality with aesthetics. To that end, Steinhof's pavilions comprised light, open spaces, supplemented by an Art Nouveau style that even extended to the window bars. Steinhof's location atop hills overlooking Vienna was intended to promote well-being and healing, as were its formal gardens. Further, the complex contained a theatre and a church specifically designed for psychiatric patients; today, the latter remains as a striking example of Catholic Art Nouveau. In the ensuing years, Steinhof received acclaim from visiting physicians for these progressive features. However, post-Anschluss, Steinhof was implicated in the Nazi's T4 programme, a campaign of involuntary euthanasia for individuals with mental and physical disabilities (lebensunwertes Leben – 'life unworthy of life'). This resulted in the transportation of approximately 3000 Steinhof patients to killing centres in 1940. Thereafter, Steinhof housed children with mental health disorders in an institution named Am Spiegelgrund. Here, psychiatrists would provide evaluations involving measures of physical and mental health and socioeconomic factors, somewhat prefiguring the comprehensive nature of contemporary functional capacity assessments. During this process, those children considered to be lebensunwertes Leben per Nazi ideology were euthanised. Harrowingly, over 750 child patients were murdered in Am Spiegelgrund. Others suffered fatal consequences from inhumane experimental procedures, including pneumoencephalographies, electroshock therapy and forced overdoses. Death certificates were fabricated, and families would be requested to pay for their child's 'care'. Nazi defeat saw Am Spiegelgrund's closure and punitive measures enacted for several psychiatrists complicit in the atrocities. Yet, according to Neugebauer and Stacher, one of Am


The recombination frequencies between the Hor 1 and Hor 2 loci on the short arm of the chromosome 5 were investigated in three different barley crosses. The mother lines were the three barley varieties Alva, Laevigatum and Isaria, while NI501 was used as the father line in all cases. The recombination frequencies between the hordein loci were 11.1%, 11.9%, and 14.9% for the Alva, Laevigatum, and Isaria crosses respectively. The rank order between the crosses with respect to the recombination frequencies coincides with the results earlier obtained on recombination on chromosome 1. A one-tailed statistical test showed that the differences are significant.


The vertical overturns occurring behind a biplane grid placed in a continuously stratified water channel were measured with a high‐speed vertical density profiler. The resulting scale (LT)rms, known as the Thorpe scale is compared to the Ozmidov scale LR=(e/N3)1/2 and the Eulerian turbulent scale l=2ρ′/(dρ/dz). For buoyancy‐dominated or stratified turbulence, l and (LT)rms are linearly related, but when all turbulent overturning events have ceased, (LT)rms is shown to decay at a faster rate. Vertical displacements larger than the Ozmidov scale are observed implying that some previously turbulent scales have become fossil turbulence.


The dimeric copper(II) and cobalt(II) sulfophthalocyanines are dissociated into oxidized and reduced metastable species by ultraviolet photolyses. The intermediates, studied by flash photolysis, were characterized as copper(II)-ligand radical species and sulfophthalocyanines containing Co(I) and Co(III) metal centers. Stable products were not formed in the absence of appropriate scavengers. Photochemical redox tendencies were observed also in photolyses of monomeric species in the presence of alcohols. Quantum yields demonstrate that this reactivity arises from the population of an upper excited state. The possible nature of such a state is discussed. 9 figures, 1 table.


The submitted manuscript has been authored by a contractor of the U. S. Government under contract No. W-37-704ENG-38. Accordinglv, the U. S. Government retains a nonexclusive. royalty-free liceme to plblirh or reproduce the published form of this contribution, or allow others to do so, for Doping Rare-earth (RE) elements to Zr02 helps stabilize the cubic and tetragonal phases and improves resistance to thermal shock and sintering at high temperatures. Since a RE ion has a lower valency (3') than Zr ion (4+), oxygen vacancies are formed to preserve electroneutrality. We have studied the crystal structure of Lag.lZro.gO1.g5 and Ndo.1Zro.gO1.g5 by neutron diffraction and examined the associated oxygen defects by a Fourier transform of the filtered residual diffuse scattering. The hydration process was investigated by inelastic neutron-scattering measurements of the hydrogen vibrational density of states of the surface hydroxyl groups and physisorbed water on these fine powders. We compare the O-H stretch vibrations for samples from with oniy surface hydroxyl groups to multilayer coverage of water molecules. The decreasing energies and increasing widths of the O-H stretch bands with increasing H20 coverage indicate the influence of hydrogen bonding on the motion of water molecules. Similar elastic and inelastic experiments were also performed on a high surfacearea pure Zro;! powder.


Valorization of knowledge produced in research units has been a major challenge for research universities in contemporary societies. The prevailing forces have led these institutions to develop a \third mission", the facilitation of technology transfer and activity in an entrepreneurial paradigm. Eective management of challenges encountered in the development of academic entrepreneurship and the associated valorization of knowledge produced by universities are major factors to bridge the gap between research and innovation in Europe. The need to improve the existing institutional knowledge valorization processes, concerning entrepreneurship and business development and the processes required were discussed. A case study was designed to describe the institutional knowledge valorization process in a food science and technology research unit and a related incubator, during a ve year evaluation period that ended in 2012. The knowledge valorization processes beneted from the adoption of a structured framework methodology that led to ideas and teams from a business model generation to client development, in parallel, when possible, with an agile product/service development. Although academic entrepreneurship engagement could be improved, this case study demonstrated that stronger skills development was needed to enable the researcher to be more aware of business development fundamentals and therefore contribute to research decisions and the valorisation of individual and institutional knowledge assets. It was noted that the timing for involvement of companies in the research projects or programs varied with the nature of the research.


Resistance in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) accession Hawaii 7998 (H7998) to bacterial spot caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria is associated with a hypersensitive reaction. In F 1 plants from a cross of H7998 with the susceptible tomato genotype Florida 7060, the time between infiltration of leaves with a high-inoculum concentration (5×10 8 cfu/ml) and the appearance of necrosis and bacterial growth after infiltration of leaves with a low-inoculum concentration (5×10 5 cfu/ml) were intermediate to the two parents [...]


When illuminated by femtosecond laser pulses, where the photon energy lies above the optical absorption bandedge, GaAs emits pulsed submillimeter-wave (THz) radiation via ultrafast photocarrier transport. The radiation emitted from the semiconductor surface has both forward (transmitted direction) and backward (psoudoroflected diroction) components. This radiation has been used to coherently probe the ultrafast electronic properties of the semiconductor. However due to technical difficulties associated with THz beam measurements, there are still many unanswered questions. For example, a detailed comparison and analysis of amplitude and phase of the forward and backward THz radiation has not reported. In this talk, we present recent measurements and analysis of the amplitude and phase of both forward and backward THz radiation via ultrafast photocarrier transport. Based on these results we are able to qualitatively and quantitatively explain anomalous THz emission from metal/semiconductor interfaces. All these interesting results which have not been reported before will improve our understanding of THz emission from semiconductors.


In this article, we have evaluated the merits of monolithically cointegrated alternate channel complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) device architecture, utilizing tensile strained germanium (<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\boldsymbol {\varepsilon }$ </tex-math></inline-formula>-Ge) for the p-channel FinFET and variable indium (In) compositional In<italic>x</italic>Ga1-<italic>x</italic>As (<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$0.10\le {x} \le0.53$ </tex-math></inline-formula>) for the n- channel FinFET. The device simulation models were calibrated using the experimental results of Ge and InGaAs FinFETs and subsequently transferred to the cointegrated Ge and In<italic>x</italic>Ga1-<italic>x</italic> As structure while keeping the device simulation parameters fixed. The device parameters, such as <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${V}_{\text {T}}$ </tex-math></inline-formula>, <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${I}_{\text {on}}$ </tex-math></inline-formula>, <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${I}_{\text {off}}$ </tex-math></inline-formula>, and subthreshold-swing (SS), were determined for identical fin dimensions for n- and p-channel FinFETs as a function of In composition that alters the tensile strain in Ge. These parameters are controllable during the heteroepitaxial growth by varying In composition in In<italic>x</italic>Ga1-<italic>x</italic>As. <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\boldsymbol {\varepsilon }$ </tex-math></inline-formula>-Ge p-FinFET is shown to be superior in terms of SS and <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${I}_{\text {on}}/{I}_{\text {off}}$ </tex-math></inline-formula> ratio compared with other competing architectures. The cointegrated architecture of CMOS inverter exhibited an optimum performance over a range of In compositions from 20% to 40% while driving fan-out fan-out 1 (FO-1) and FO-4 load configurations. In addition, the CMOS inverter with symmetric rise and fall times as well as noise-immune functionality demonstrated 150 GHz of operating frequency with 30-nW total power dissipation at 20% In composition, and hence a superior power-delay-product comparable with International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS) standards. Moreover, the three-stage CMOS ring oscillator performance was evaluated with various In compositions to be stable and power efficient. Thus, the cointegrated approach has a potential to: 1) simplify large-scale CMOS integration and 2) be compatible with optoelectronic materials.


This paper outlines the intertwining of inductrial relations and the reorganization of production in the Rover Group (until recently the last British-owned car producer, now owned by BMW). The paper locates events at Rover, and particularly the perceived shift in industrial relations brought about the ground breaking 'Nea Deal' of 1992, within a wider historical and sectoral context.


The present invention relates to a skin injury preventing cosmetic composition by UV and UV rays, to kill and extract the protective agents 1 to 30 is added parts by weight of inorganic UV filters 0.1 to 25 parts by weight, 0.1 to 25 parts by weight of an organic sunscreen and an oil of 1 to 20 has the advantage of preventing the parts by weight of the skin damage caused by organic and inorganic sunscreen ingredients according to the yirueojim comprising surfactant and 0.1 to 10 parts by weight, and further increase the ultraviolet rays shielding effect.


Objective: To present a case of gastroduodenal lipomatosis associated with familial multiple lipomatosis (FML). Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 58-year-old male presented with FML that manifested as multiple, painless, subcutaneous lipomas on his body; his mother had subcutaneous lipoma without a diagnosis of gastroduodenal lipomatosis. His lipid profile was normal. Abdominal computed tomography showed multiple, submucosal, polypoid lesions (of uniform density) of fat in the stomach and duodenum, and a small, similar lesion in the ileum. Conclusion: This case shows that gastrointestinal lipomatosis can manifest as FML.


In a real Hilbert space, we aim to investigate two modified Mann subgradient-like methods to find a solution to pseudo-monotone variational inequalities, which is also a common fixed point of a finite family of nonexpansive mappings and an asymptotically nonexpansive mapping. We obtain strong convergence results for the sequences constructed by these proposed rules. We give some examples to illustrate our analysis.


The invention discloses an antibacterial feed additive which comprises an effective component, namely, monolactic acid glyceride, dilactic acid glyceride, trilactic acid glyceride or a mixture of two or three of monolactic acid glyceride, dilactic acid glyceride and trilactic acid glyceride in any ratio. A use method of the antibacterial feed additive is that the antibacterial feed additive which accounts for 0.01-0.5% of the total weight of feed is directly added into livestock and aquatic livestock feed, or the antibacterial feed additive is mixed with a carrier to prepare a premix, or the antibacterial feed additive is mixed with other feed additives or feed raw materials to prepare a premix and concentrated materials to feed livestock and aquatic livestock. The antibacterial feed additive has the outstanding advantages that due to addition of the lactic acid glyceride, the additive has the advantages of high security and no medicine resistance, can effectively replace feed antibiotics, and meets the healthful aquaculture development direction. The additive can inhibit the repruduction of intestinal harmful microorganisms of animals, promote animal growth, improve the feed conversion efficiency and reduce the disease rate.


This article is devoted to functional-synergetic analysis of inter-textual elements of the Business English discourse functional-semantic system as an effective means of pragmatic impact and realization of the author's communicative intention.


I13 is a 250 m long hard x-ray beamline for imaging and coherent diffraction at the Diamond Light Source. The beamline (6 keV to 35 keV) comprises two independent experimental endstations: one for imaging in direct space using x-ray microscopy and one for imaging in reciprocal space using coherent diffraction based imaging techniques [1]. In particular the coherence experiments pose very high demands on the performance on the beamline instrumentation, requiring extensive testing and optimisation of each component, even during the assembly phase. Various aspects like the quality of optical components, the mechanical design concept, vibrations, drifts, thermal influences and the performance of motion systems are of particular importance. In this paper we study the impact of the front-end slit size (FE slit size), which determines the horizontal source size, onto the coherence length and the detrimental impact of monochromator vibrations using in-situ x-ray metrology in conjunction with fringe visibility measurements and vibration measurements, based on centroid tracking of an x-ray pencil beam with a photon-counting detector.


In drilling parameter optimization design,it will meet three constraint conditions of borehole safety.According to these three conditions,the scope the discharge can be made.Setting power rule rheological module as an example,the computational formula of minimum discharge and maximum can be got.When the drilling speed changes within the scope,the minimum which meets the constraint condition will increase which the speed increases,so as to get the formula of it.


Objective To observe the effects of endoscopic saphenous vein harvesting technique on the prevalence of leg-wound complications after coronary artery bypass grafting,and assess the feasibility of this technique and the potential trauma of the conduits.Methods Between January 2007 and February 2008,118 patients underwent primary coronary artery bypass grafting,and 40 patients' saphenous vein taken using endoscopic harvest system(EVH),and the others by open vein harvesting(OVH),based on patient's willingness.The operation risk factors were compared between the two groups,and the proximal vein segment that underwent endoscopic harvesting was examined with electron-microscope.Results There was no significant difference in risk factors of incision complications between the two groups,but the incidence of various incision complications was significantly lower in the EVH group(12.5%)than in the OVH group(39.7%)(P0.01).The time of harvesting was similar between the two groups.The length of conduits was(30.3±7.45)cm and(37.7±8.01)cm with significant difference between the two groups(P0.05).Actually,there was increase in the use of sequential grafting technique in the EVH group for revascularization.Histological studies suggested that there were no extra vein trauma associated with EVH.At the same time,we have accumulated rich experience and skills in this procedure,and realized anatomical features of vein grafts.However,because of limited experience,the patency rate of conduits and the incidence rate of myocardial infarction in the perioperative or postoperative period were not compared between the two groups,more precise observations might be required.Conclusion The decrease in incision complications of EVH was unquestionably superior to those of OVH,especially for those patients having risk factors of incision complications.With increasing experience,the EVH technique might replace conventional saphenous vein harvesting methods and become the standard option.


Currently, many Workflow Management Systems (WfMS) lack the capability of preserving the transactional characteristics of the workflow. It is an important reason for the workflow pervasion and practicability. In this paper, a comprehensive data consistency protecting framework oriented to the three kinds of workflow data is introduced. It includes the failure operation patterns for workflow control data, the multi-version management mechanism for workflow relevant data and the lock protocol for workflow application data. Under this framework, the WfMS will be provided with the powerful and available transaction capability and can keep the consistency of the workflow data.


We describe a scattering experiment using quasi-monochromatic light with variable spatial coherence for determining the pair correlation function of a quasi-homogeneous medium. The tomographic technique is implemented by recording the intensity scattered in one direction.


Electronic business refers to the process to realize the transaction of merchandise and service bearing a striking advantage over the traditional business patten.Electronic business in our country is restricted by the four "bottlenecks".Electronic business, therefore, should adopt the strategies combined with the traditional economy in order to become a winner in the network facing the broad prospect of development.


(J. Extra-Corpor. Technol. 19[3] p. 384-391 Fall 1987, 5 ref.) The continuing advances in perfusion have brought an increased need for research to validate professional roles and practices. Perfusion educators are faced with increased expectations that they will conduct this research even though many feel they do not have the background or support to do so.
In an effort to address these concerns, a national study was done to determine the research interests, needs, skills, and productivity of educators in the field of perfusion. The goal of the study was 1) to determine the level of involvement in research activities of perfusion faculty; 2) to identify research interests of these educators; 3) to characterize the current research environment; 4) to determine the research background of perfusion educators; and 5) to identify continuing education needs for research productivity.
Twenty-seven perfusion education programs were contacted for lists of their current faculty members. A survey questionnaire was mailed to the 63 names received. Completed surveys were received from 26 individuals (41%). The overall results of the survey indicate low research productivity, a lack of research skills and support for research, and a need for workshops dealing with the development of research skills.


Aluminum-carbon microelectrolysis was used for the treatment of simulant wastewater containing methyl violet 5 BN,the influences of aluminum-carbon ratio,influent pH value,aeration time and some other factors on treatment effect were studied,and then,the optimal condition was determined.The results showed that,using aluminum-carbon microelectrolysis process to treat simulant methyl violet 5 BN-containing wastewater whose mass concentration was 200mg/L,when the mass ratio of aluminum-carbon was 1:1.5,the aeration time was 2h,the pH value was 3 and 10,the removal rate of COD reached 83.6% and 91.8% respectively,through the reaction,the mass ratio of effluent BOD5 to COD increased from 0.06 to 0.91 and the biodegradability of the wastewater was improved at the same time.It was proved that microelectrolysis could be used in pretreatment of alkaline wastewater.


Metamorphic mechanisms and metamorphic robots are able to deliberately change their own shape by rearranging the connectivity of their parts. The reconfiguration process of the mechanisms contains various topological configurations with multiple configuration states to accommodate topology transformation. Over the last decade, the study of metamorphic mechanism and metamorphic robotics has advanced from conceptual study to elaborating theories and physical implementations. The goal of this article is to outline some of this progress and propose some key perspectives.


The dynamic spin Hamiltonian form for an Fe3+ ion in TiO2 is given and its spin-lattice coefficients computed. On the basis of the change of resonance field with induced stress in an ESR experiment, the quadrupolar contributions SdS is found to exceed by two orders of magnitude the dipolar contribution beta HhS. A complete set of nine spin-lattice coefficients for SdS in orthorhombic symmetry is determined.


In order to solve the problems of feeble research foundation and inadequate experiment skills, the central laboratory for science and technology at general hospital introduced a series of minilectures with different styles for research-oriented graduate students in Chinese Traditional Medicine, including basic strengthening style, tailored style, leading innovated style and academic salon style. The minilecture contents covered biomedical basic research, the commonly used experimental technologies of cell culture, molecular biology, histochemistry and some others, and the latest research advances. According to the needs of postgraduate research projects, the mini-lectures were also organically combined with the laboratory self-produced micro videos and scientific research training, which aroused the enthusiasm of medical science postgraduates for scientific research participation, and explored a new way to improve the quality of experimental teaching.

Key words:
Mini-lecture; Degree in medical sciences; Training; Scientific research innovation


Let X be a metric space and μ a Borel probability measure on X. For q, t ∈ R and E ⊆ X write [formula]Then Hq, tμ and Pq, tμ are Borel measures − Hq, tμ is a multifractal generalization of the centered Hausdorff measure and Pq, tμ is a multifractal generalization of the packing measure. The measures Hq, tμ and Pq, tμ define, for a fixed q, in the usual way a generalized Hausdorff dimension dimqμ(E) and a generalized packing dimension Dimqμ(E) of subsets E of X. We study the functions bμ: q → dimqμ(supp μ), Bμq → Dimqμ(supp μ) and their relation to the so-called multifractal spectra functions of μ: [formula] We prove, among other things, that fμ(Fμ) is bounded from above by the Legendre transform of bμBμ) and that equality holds for graph directed self-similar measures and "cookie-cutter" measures. Finally we discuss the connection with generalized Renyi dimensions.


A novel fiber RF antenna technology is proposed. With the coaxial structure, optical waveguide, surface plasmon waveguide and radio frequency waveguide are combined together. The modulation of the antenna received radio frequency signal on optical carrier is implemented based on the surface plasmon polaritons.


espanolIntroduction: There is a growing need for palliative care worldwide, due to a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases and the aging of the population. The WHO urged nations to work on palliative care development, strengthening, and monitoring, which remain inadequate as of today. In 2014 a 23-quality indicator panel (10 for structure, 12 for process, 1 for outcome) was developed in Argentina to evaluate resources (stage 1). Our objective was to use this panel (stage 2) in 5 country regions to test its viability and to identify areas for improvement. Method: An exploratory, prospective, cross-sectional, observational study for identification and audit purposes along 6 phases (July 2016-July 2018) using the developed panel with preset standards. A descriptive analysis by indicator and resource was carried out. Results: Phase 1: Census of 128 palliative care resources; Phase 2: Mapping and categorization of resources in levels of organization (38 % of answers); Phase 3: Group training; Phase 4: On-site audit. 22 resources participated. The medical records of 30 deceased patients, as well as scheduled management, teaching, and research activities were audited; Phase 5: Analysis: level-3 teams reached and even surpassed the desired standards for 3 process indicators (pharmacological plan, main caregiver identification, emergency instructions); Phase 6: Interpretation and communication of areas for improvement. Conclusions: The implementation of the indicator panel was found to be feasible and areas for improvement were identified. A quality monitoring system would boost up healthcare standards and ease planning for training and institutional strengthening actions in Argentina. espanolIntroduccion: Existe una necesidad creciente de cuidados paliativos a nivel mundial en parte debido a la mayor prevalencia de enfermedades no transmisibles y al envejecimiento poblacional. La OMS insto a las naciones a trabajar en el desarrollo, fortalecimiento y monitorizacion de los cuidados paliativos aun insuficientes. En Argentina, en 2014 se desarrollo un panel de 23 indicadores de calidad (10 de Estructura, 12 de Proceso, 1 de Resultado) para evaluar recursos (etapa 1). El objetivo actual fue la aplicacion de dicho panel (etapa 2) en las 5 regiones del pais, probando su factibilidad para identificar areas de mejora. Metodo: Estudio exploratorio, prospectivo, observacional, de identificacion y auditoria, transversal en 6 fases (julio 2016-julio 2018) utilizando el panel desarrollado con estandares preestablecidos. Se realizo el analisis descriptivo por indicador y recurso. Resultados: Fase 1, Censo de 128 recursos; Fase 2, Cartografia y categorizacion de los recursos en niveles de organizacion (38 % de respuestas); Fase 3, Capacitacion del grupo investigador; Fase 4, Auditoria en terreno. Participaron 22 recursos. Se auditaron 30 historias clinicas de pacientes oncologicos fallecidos y actividades programadas, gestion, docencia, investigacion; Fase 5, Analisis: los equipos de nivel 3 alcanzaron y superaron el estandar deseable para 3 indicadores de proceso (identificacion del cuidador principal, plan farmacoterapeutico y emergencias); Fase 6, Interpretacion y comunicacion de las areas de mejora. Conclusiones: La aplicacion del panel de indicadores fue factible y se lograron identificar areas de mejora. Un sistema de monitorizacion de la calidad promoveria estandares asistenciales y facilitaria la planificacion de acciones de capacitacion y fortalecimiento institucional en Argentina.


We consider tilings of the plane. Two tiles are called neighbors if they share at least one boundary point. A tiling is called a constant neighbor tiling if every tile has the same number of neighbors. A tiling of the plane is called monohedral if every tile is congruent, and a tiling is called dihedral if exactly two different tiles are used.


The need to reduce the cost of energy, recycle and productively reuse the abundant scrap metals in the country for a more efficient running of our foundry industries led to this paper. This work focuses on the design, construction and testing of an erythrophleum suaveolens charcoal-fired cupola furnace. In order to improve the efficiency of the furnace proper attention was given to the design of tuyere and oxygen enrichment was also introduced. From the design, 0.0585 m 3 /s volume of air supplied to the cupola furnace with an available volumetric capacity of 0.0613 m 3 at the rate of 2652.34 W/m 2 produced an estimated melting heat of 255891.1 kJ/hr with a melting rate of 355kg/hr for the erythrophleum suaveolens charcoal as fuel. While the estimated melting heat of 326208.264 kJ/hr with a melting rate of 432 kg/hr for the erythrophleum suaveolens charcoal enriched with oxygen. The actual melt rate was determined based on the amount of iron tapped per hour. It was obvious that the melt rate of the furnace was not up to the designed value of 466 kg/hr., incomplete combustion could be responsible for this. Consequently, the fuel analysis performed showed that the stoichiometric air/fuel ratio obtained was 11.73, while the efficiency of the cupola furnace was calculated as 88.3% for an erythrophleum suaveolens charcoal as fuel against the 90.8% value of the oxygen enriched erythrophleum suaveolens charcoal. It is thus recommended that this design can be used as a foundation for building better and cheaper foundry industries in Nigeria.


Environmental problems at the watershed level are complex and require solutions that minimize socioeconomic, environmental, and political-institutional impacts. Within this context, a crosscutting analysis of concepts related to sustainable development, sustainable agriculture, watershed structure, and the use of indicators to measure local sustainability is of paramount importance for planning development at the local level. The objective of this research was to collect information related to management practices and rural development regarding the watersheds of Ribeirao Cachoeirinha and Corrego do Meio in the municipality of Sao Luiz do Paraitinga, SP. The goal was to propose sustainability indicators that would support an integrated watershed management strategy and promote sustainable development. Indicators should be based on the sustainability of watershed activities, be useful tools for implementing sustainable development and serve as reference in the decision-making process. Methods involved a general characterization of the area and the community using field surveys and published sources. The criteria utilized for defining the boundaries of the area were based on the Watershed State Program developed by the Agriculture and Supply Secretariat of the State of Sao Paulo. The results led to the development of 83 sustainability indicators and indicated the need for the community to develop an integrated strategy to promote local sustainable development.


This research investigates the role of workers' comparisons in influencing job satisfaction. Comparisons are conceptualized in terms of expectations that workers may develop based on comparisons with the past, the present, and the anticipated future. Support is provided for the roles of upward mobility from past situations, positive comparisons with current reference groups, and positive expectations of the future as important determinants of current job satisfaction. The alternative hypothesis that upward mobility or positive current comparisons may result in reduced job satisfaction because of accompanying stresses and conflicts is rejected. It has long been recognized in the literature on job satisfaction that workers' attitudes are influenced by their appraisal of the rewards they can reasonably expect to receive. Highly educated workers often express dissatisfaction with their jobs, in spite of relatively favorable job content and working conditions, because their college experiences have created heightened expectations about the rewards they can expect to receive from their jobs (Kalleberg and Griffin, 1980; Lindsay and Knox, 1984). Conversely, female workers do not typically express great dissatisfaction with their jobs, in spite of inferior conditions of employment, because they have downgraded their expectations about the rewards attainable through the workplace (Glenn and Feldberg, 1977). The dilemma that this presents for researchers in the area of job satisfaction is that it becomes difficult to discern the extent to which job attitudes are statements about objective conditions at the workplace as opposed to statements about workers' expectations. This problem has plagued the interpretation of research findings in the area of job satisfaction throughout its history (Seeman, 1972). However, relatively little research has been undertaken to investigate the nature of this process of evaluative comparison. In an effort to address this di1 I would like to thank Marie Crane and David Snow for helpful comments on an earlier version of this paper. Thanks also to William H. Sewell and Robert M. Hauser for providing access to data from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study of Schooling and Attainments and to the anonymous reviewers for Social Science Quarterly for their helpful comments. Editor's note: Reviewers were Beverly Burris, Richard Hall, Arne Kalleberg, and Melvin Kohn.


With the rapid development of information technology and the increasing scale of the Internet, a huge amount of data and information has been generated, and people face a huge challenge to get the information they need from it. In order to solve these challenges, personalized recommendation technology has emerged, which can actively recommend items of potential interest to users. The most mainstream personalized recommendation technology is collaborative filtering, which has been applied in various fields and achieved good results. However, its recommendation performance tends to drop sharply when facing data sparsity and cold-start problems. Currently, knowledge representation techniques have attracted wide attention from academia and industry, and have been applied to recommender systems and other fields, and have made important breakthroughs. To solve the problem of data sparsity and improve recommendation accuracy, this paper introduces knowledge representation into neural collaborative filtering model and proposes a neural collaborative filtering model assisted by knowledge graph embedding. By alternating the training of the knowledge representation module of the recommendation module, the knowledge representation module assists the training of the recommendation module, which effectively improves the rating prediction effect. Through experiments, it is shown that the model not only improves 9.46% and 10.18% in MAE and RMSE respectively over the UserCF method, but also effectively alleviates the data sparsity problem.


This work aims to introduce a novel robust paradigm for mobile communication and network management for resource constrained communication networks. The paradigm introduced in this paper is based on the innovative idea of Mobile Code which has been implemented on a test bed at the Adaptive Risk Management (ARM) Laboratory at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) [1]. Networks based on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) are revolutionizing the world and their perpetuation is leading to the dependence of critical infrastructures on the reliability of these networks, the integrity of the information flowing and stored on these networks, and on the availability of these information networks through the Internet [2]. In order to deal with this, the idea of Mobile Code is introduced in this paper as the relatively new concept of real-time in-Network programming that occurs when certain conditions are met. Through the application of the Mobile Code approach networks of networks [3] can achieve an increase in resilience from failure due to attacks and furthermore, attain self- management capabilities which is a much needed characteristic in today's Network Systems and protocols.


Azo compound Ⅰ was synthesized from 6-Nitronaphthalene-1, 2-azoxy-4-sulfonic acid and 2-naphthol by coupling reaction. Azo compound Ⅱ was synthesized from diazotized 2-amino-4-nitrophenol-6-sulfonic acid and l-phenyl-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone by coupling reaction. Azo compound Ⅰ reacted with Chromium (Ⅲ) potassium sulfate in the presence of salicylic acid, then the single metal complex compound Ⅲ was obtained. The asymmetric azo-based dye C. Ⅰ. Acid Brown 355 was synthesized from complex compound Ⅲ and azo compound Ⅱ by complex reaction under alkaline conditions.


Polygalacturonase (EC 184.108.40.206) (PGase) and invertase (EC 188.8.131.52) activities were compared with the untreated and the treated papaya thermally injured by vapor-heat treatment. PGase activity was higher in the normal fruits, and invertase activity was only slightly higher in the thermally injured fruits. The appearance of the thermally injured fruits might be caused by the effects of PGase. The rate of ethylene generation was studied by soaking the papaya in a methionine solution of ethylene precursor or an Ethrel (2-chloroethyl phosphonic acid) solution of an ethylene generating chemical. The results showed that the ethylene production rate was relatively higher in fruit treated with an Ethrel solution for both untreated and thermally injured fruits, and a quality improvement of the thermally injured fruit was suggested.


PURPOSE: A coating layer with a low-friction for a vehicle component and a method for producing a same are provided to have a high temperature, abrasion resistant property and a high hardness, low friction property with comprising Ti layer of a basic material surface, TiN layer of a Ti layer surface, TiAgN layer of a TiN layer surface, and Ag layer transferring on a surface of TiAgN layer. CONSTITUTION: A coating layer with low-friction for a vehicle component comprises Ti layer(100) of a basic material surface, TiN layer(300) of a Ti layer surface, TiAgN layer(500) of a TiN layer surface, and Ag layer(700') transferring on a surface of TiAgN layer. A method for producing a coating layer with low-friction for a vehicle component comprises the following steps: a basic material surface is cleaned and a inside atmosphere of a deposition equipment is stabilized to a atmosphere of a vacuum/high temperature; Ti layer is evaporated on the surface of the base material through Ti arc source; TiN layer is evaporated on the surface of Ti layer through Ti arc source and nitrogen gas; TiAgN layer is evaporated on the surface of TiN layer through Ti arc source, Ag sputtering source, and nitrogen gas; and the Ag layer is evaporated on the surface of TiAgN layer through Ag sputtering source.


Benzimidazole derivatives are reported to be physiologically and pharmacologically active and have shown different biological activities such as antioxidant, antifungal, antitumoral, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. The ability of benzimidazole derivatives to form stable complexes with metal ions, had given a place to a variety of metal-ligand coordination modes. Several research teams have examined the coordination behavior of benzimidazole derivatives towards transition metal ions and others studies have explored the biological activity of coordination compounds containing benzimidazole entity. A ligand, 2-(1H-benzo[d]imidazole-2-yl)quinoline and its Cobalt and Manganese complex have been synthesized. The molecular structure of ligand and its Co(II) and Mn(II) complex are determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction technique. We report here the synthesis, crystallographic study, hydrogen bond interactions and theoretical investigation of two new coordination complexes based on benzimidazole derivative. In order to provide a better understanding of the bonding and the electronic structure of the ligand and their neutral complexes, we have carried out DFT calculations. The optimized structures reproduce those observed experimentally, while the reduced ones undergo remarkable geometrical parameters.


With the development of market economy,the running autonomy of high vocational college tends to be expanded constantly.For example,the vocational college shares more college investment,and more right of autonomous enrolment of students and personnel.However,such a kind of tendency has several limits.For example,the government must be the main body;when making autonomous enrolment,a certain rules should be followed;a certain feature should be reflected in major establishment,etc.


In allusion to the situation that complex hardware circuit,commissioning and difficult maintenance of SPWM micro-stepping driver which was composed of analog circuit,a digital stepper motor subdivision driver was designed.Intelligent power module was used for main circuit power devices,control circuit mainly consisted of programmable three-phase SPWM chip SLE4520 and single chip microcomputer.And the control algorithm of homalographic bipolar modulation was used for sine subdivision of three-phase stepper motor stator windings current.Selected appropriate section number and constant width pulse number each section,step torque angle with equal-stride-angle and high precision segmentation can be achieved.The driver has simple circuit,stable operation,segmentation accuracy,has certain high application value.


A system has dynamic adaptability if it can adapt itself to dynamically changing runtime environment. As open-ended distributed systems and mobile computing systems have spread widely, the need for software with dynamic adaptability increases. We propose a model of software with dynamic adaptability and, have designed and implemented a programming language based on the model. The basic idea is to introduce a mechanism that changes the actual runtime codes of callee procedure dynamically according to the runtime environments. Although the model itself is simple, it can realize highly dynamic adaptability and extensibility of the software. Moreover, the model is independent of speciic programming languages.


The Distance Education is an educational modality where mediation didactic and pedagogical processes of teaching, and learning uses of media and information technology (IT). The communication between students and teachers develop educational activities in educational model which learning have not spatial or temporal limitations. The Distance Education mode is where mediation educational didactic and pedagogical processes of teaching and learning uses of media and information technology and communication in which students and teachers develop educational activities in an educational model where learning has no spatial or temporal limitations. Considering the physical dimensions and the educational background of Brazil, the distance course addresses the need to again a professional career. Increase their productivity and benefits to the institution they belong to, citizenship and ensure their choice of parameters fulfilling the duty to the Society and State.Brazil needs educated citizens and the Science of Laboratory Animals requires skilled technicians in this area of knowledge. Universities and research institutions concentrate production in health science. However, there is no formal education for professionals seeking to specialize in this area. The UNIFESP and Qualitecnica partnered to implement this project by providing the Specialization Course in Laboratory Animals (360 hours), through distance education, reaching small groups of professionals in the country. The Platform Sapiens has methodological resources for the development of disciplines, considering that education not only addresses the theory, but the values and behavioral attitudes, applied not only to work but to life. Thus, this curriculum competency aims to educate in a dialogic, interactive social and stimulating reflection on the impact of content covered by sensitizing the individual and giving it the visibility of their importance in the gears of society.


To discuss the necessity and feasibility of book-treatment reading room established in the National Library of China.The establishment of book-treatment reading room can offer help, resolve personal difficulties, achieve self-growth,and enhance living condition to the readers in need. The National Library of China founding the book-treatment reading room can lead the operation of the book-treatment in the industry, make the full use of the resource of the library, play the role of the it, and lead the nationwide reading in China.


The histotechnical are professional working in support services to the diagnosis and treatment
of diseases, performing average complexity actions in the field of pathology, or in laboratories
of scientific research. The Histotechnology, at present has all the scientific and technological
potential for turning into a complex work area, however, it has been forgotten by the policies
of professional education in Brazil, and has been kept within the simple work and summed up
their skills more basic. We propose in this research that the professional education of
Technical Workers in Histology is performed with a view to omnilaterality and polytechnic,
taking references from critical and post-critical curriculum theories, and with the knowledge
being treated as a correlated curriculum, enabling the construction of a critical view of
knowledge, its work process and social relations broadly. This new curriculum would be
composed of five groups epistemological, integrated the following disciplines: Education and
Health, Work and Citizenship, Social and Political History of Public Health, Ethics; Space,
Ecology and Environmental Health, Planning and Health Management, Health-Disease
Process; Good Laboratory Practices and Biosafety; Laboratory Basic Techniques,
Fundamentals of Experimental Chemistry, Laboratory Animals, Cellular and Molecular
Biology, Histology; Anatomo-Physiology, Bases of General Pathologic Processes; Traditional
Techniques in Histotechnology, Specific Techniques in Histotechnology; and the Mandatory
addition of Curricular and Technical Visits.


This study aims to analyze the development and determine the perspective of calligraphy education in Yogyakarta. This research uses a qualitative approach with case studies to obtain a deep and comprehensive understanding of a phenomenon experienced by the research subject. The results showed that the development of calligraphy education was seen at three points of concentration; first, Islamic Higher Education (PTAI); second, in Islamic boarding schools or Islamic-based schools, as one of the learning curriculum materials for students; third; non-institutional calligraphy coaching. This study also contributes to an overview of the dynamics of the development of contemporary Islamic calligraphy in Yogyakarta. It appears a long process passed towards a work that can be enjoyed and deserves to be appreciated.


This paper presents a new embedded controller based on schedule feasibility self-testing, suitable for fast linear or nonlinear dynamic plants. The suggested solution provides concomitant multiple control laws working at different sampling frequencies. As protection to overloading conditions, an adaptive mechanism is introduced, meant to preserve the consistency of the control algorithms, whilst keeping the microcontroller utilization in the desired range. It performs the on-line checking of the schedule feasibility, switching temporarily to lower sampling frequencies, once the risk of violating the real time constraints occurs. This strategy permits to employ high default frequency at system start-up, with benefits on the rapid detection of disturbances. In order to provide increased safety and predictability, OSEK/VDX real time operating system was adopted. The performances of the proposed approach are experimentally illustrated on a DC motor with separate excitation, by providing both the inner current control loop and the outer speed one.


Main street business activity constitutes an important segment of most local economies. This paper discusses a consumer opinion survey that analyzes local service and retail business activity. The survey identifies where consumers shop for various types of merchandise or service, reveals reasons for shopping patterns and provides consumer opinions of changes desired of local merchants. The findings provide community development practitioners with information to develop educational programs involving local business management. This information can be used as a component of overall economic development and downtown revitalization programs.


To the Editor:— The editorial "Credit for Discovery ( 194 :1006, 1965) ascribed the dictum "... in science the credit goes to the man who convinces the world, not to the man to whom the idea first occurs" to William Osler. In my little book, Anesthesia in Ophthalmology , 1 I have credited the statement to F. Darwin, writing in the Eugenics Review in 1914. I think I found the reference in "Bibliotheca Osleriana" or elsewhere in Osler's papers in the Osler Library at McGill University, but I am not sure. I hope that I have not been incorrect.


In the development of agricultural product network marketing,the talented person is a core,thus solves the talented person problem have to be most basic and urgent.Due to the current farmer's cultural quality is lower,the development of agro-product network marketing is restricted.In this article the problem is discussed and some point is provided.


Introduction: Periductal mastitis (PDM) is a complex benign breast disease with a prolonged course and a high risk of recurrence after treatment. There are many available treatments for PDM, but none is widely accepted. This study aims to evaluate the various treatment failure rates (TFR) of different invasive treatment measures by looking at recurrence and persistence after treatment. In this way, it sets out to inform better clinical decisions in the treatment of PDM. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for eligible studies about different treatment regimens provided to PDM patients that had been published before October 1, 2019. We included original studies written in English that reported the recurrence and/or persistence rates of each therapy. Outcomes were presented as pooled TFR and 95% CI for the TFR. Results: We included 27 eligible studies involving 1,066 patients in this study. We summarized 4 groups and 10 subgroups of PDM treatments, according to the published studies. Patients treated minimally invasively (group 1) were subdivided into 3 subgroups and pooled TFR were calculated as follows: incision and drainage (n = 73; TFR = 75.6%; 95% CI 27.3–100%), incision alone (n = 74; TFR = 20.1%; 95% CI 0–59.9%), and breast duct irrigation (n = 123; TFR = 19.4%; 95% CI 0–65.0%). Patients treated with a minor excision (excision of the infected tissue and related duct; group 2) were divided into 4 subgroups and pooled TFR were calculated as follows: wound packing alone (n = 127; TFR = 2.1%; 95% CI 0–5.2%), primary closure alone (n = 66; TFR = 37.1%; 95% CI 9.5–64.8%), primary closure under antibiotic treatment cover (n = 55; TFR = 4.8%; 95% CI 0–11.4%) , and additional nipple part removal (n = 232; TFR = 9.6%; 95% CI 5.8–13.4%). Patients treated with a major excision (excision of the infected tissue and the major duct; group 3) included the following 2 subgroups: patients treated with a circumareolar incision (n = 142; TFR = 7.5%; 95% CI 0.4–14.7%) and patients treated with a radial incision of the breast (n = 78; TFR = 0.6%; 95% CI 0–3.6%). Group 4 contained patients receiving different major plastic surgeries. The pooled TFR of this group (n = 86) was 3.4% (95% CI 0–7.5%). Conclusion: Breast duct irrigation, which is the most minimally invasive of all of the treatment options, seemed to yield good outcomes and may be the first-line treatment for PDM patients. Minor excision methods, except for primary closure alone, might be enough for most PDM patients. Major excision, especially with radial incision, was a highly effective salvage therapy. The major plastic surgery technique was also acceptable as an alternative treatment for patients with large lesions and concerns about breast appearance. Incision and drainage and minor excision with primary closure alone should be avoided for PDM patients. Further research is still needed to better understand the etiology and pathogenesis of PDM and explore more effective treatments for this disease.


SUMMARY Assuming a smooth trend plus independent error model for the environmental effects in the yields of a field plot experiment, least squares smoothing methods are developed to estimate both the treatment effects and the unknown trend. Treatment estimates are closely related to those resulting from a generalized least squares analysis in which the covariance structure for the environmental effects has a particular form. However, the main emphases are on the accuracy of treatment estimates under a fixed smooth trend plus error model and the exploratory power of the basic method to isolate trend effects of unknown form. Although the detailed development is for the one-dimensional case, generalizations of the smoothness concept and extensions to two dimensions are also discussed. Application of the basic method is illustrated on three data sets and the results compared with other analyses.


AbstractNickel superalloys containing Ti and Chave shown considerable precipitation of TiC at bond interfaces during solid-state bonding operations, i.e. diffusion bonding and hot isotatic pressing (HIP). To enhance surface bond ability a new surface treatment has been developed which completely depletes the Ti (and Al) at the metal surface to a controllable depth by the use of a H2-HCI atmosphere. It has been shown that the draining rate of the alloying elements is controlled by the degree of material surface reactivity with HCI. A detailed examination of HIP and cast IN 100 andforged Waspaloy after H2-HCI treatment is presented and an extension of the treatment to HIP and forged Rene 95 and forged INCO 718 is also included. In general, a treated depth from 25 to 30 μm was found to be beneficial in subsequent bonding operations. Metallographical observations on control and pretreated specimens showedgreatly improved recrystallization and the absence of precipitated TiC in the, bonding zone.


A new Fabian pamphlet Challenging the Citadel: Breaking the hospitals' grip on the NHS sees health select committee member Dr. Howard Stoate MP and Bryan Jones argue that the NHS is far too focused on the hospital as an institution. The new NHS should be about public health and health prevention, and if the dominance of the hospitals continues we will find ourselves unable to make substantial improvements in health outcomes, and the NHS will be ill-equipped to cope with the pressures it will face in the 21st century. The report, "Tackling the Citadel, Breaking the Hospitals' Grip on the NHS" proposes a coherent package of changes to: ensure that there is a school nurse in each and every primary and secondary school; abandon the foundation trust model and integrate primary and secondary care services to form single care trusts with single budgets to remove the divide between the primary and secondary sectors; put teams of specialist GPs in charge of AE and, draw a line under the PFI initiative as far as hospitals are concerned, and look for other more flexible ways of financing our future acute sector infrastructure needs; It also proposes to: redeploy 10 per cent of nurses working in acute trusts in order to increase the range of preventative and disease management activities undertaken in the community; make extra investment available to enable ambulance paramedic crews to develop their patient assessment and management skills and ensure that patients with primary care needs are referred to their GP, or the primary care out of hours service, rather than being taken automatically on an unnecessary trip to their local AE prioritise the creation of a network of multi-disciplinary polyclinics across the country; and, ensure that every local authority appoints its own health champion and give them the power to scrutinise every major policy decision taken by the local authority.


A first principles calculation is used to simulate the changes of the lattice constant,band gap,total energy and structure of MgZnO semiconductor alloys with the different MgO mole fractions.The calculated results show that the lattice constant diminishes and the crystal structure departures gradually from the wurtzite type as the MgO mole fraction increases.By comparison with the different positions of the Mg atom,it is suggested that the structure of Mg_xZn_ 1-xO alloy will change and the possibility of the phase transition will be higher than that of the phase separation as the MgO mole fraction increases.On the other hand,when the MgO mole fraction is increased,the band gap enlarges,which is mainly attributable to the shift of the top of the valence band away from the Fermi level.By construing the influence of all kinds of electronic states in Mg atom on the valence band,it shows that the contribution of Mg to the energy band near the top of the valence band takes turn from its p,d,s states.The density of the p states near the top of the valence band enhances prominently when the MgO mole fraction is increased.It indicates that the sp hybridization not only affects the structure of the crystal but also plays an important role for its electronic structures.


Assumption 5. If the disequilibrium in the international system is not resolved, then the system will be changed, and a new equilibrium reflecting the redistribution of power will be established. The disequilibrium in the international system is due to increasing disjuncture between the existing governance of the system and the redistribution of power in the system. Although the hierarchy of prestige, the distribution of territory, the rules of the system, and the international division of labor continue to favor the traditional dominant power or powers, the power base on which the governance of the system ultimately rests has eroded because of differential growth and development among states. This disjuncture among the components of the international system creates challenges for the dominant states and opportunities for the rising states in the system. This disequilibrium may be expressed by different formulations, depending on the perspective taken. From the perspective of the system, it involves disjuncture among the components of the system. As noted in the preceding paragraph, although the international distribution of power has undergone a significant change, the other components of the system have remained relatively constant. From the perspective of dominant powers, the costs of maintaining the international status quo have increased, producing a serious discrepancy between one's power and one's commitments. From the perspective of rising powers, the perceived costs of changing the international system have declined relative to the potential benefits of doing so. However the disequilibrium is viewed, what has changed is the distribution of power among the states in the system.


To my family i ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The research presented in this thesis was conducted at Delft University of Technology, the Netherlands, in the Electrical Power Processing (EPP) group headed by Professor Braham Ferreira. This is the place where I spent six memorable years towards my Master and Ph.D. degrees. Many people have been involved during this time and this thesis would not be completed without their valuable company, help, encouragement, and support. I would like to take this opportunity to thank those involved directly and indirectly. First of all, I would like to thank my promoter Professor Ferreira, for giving me the opportunity to pursue both Master and Ph.D. degrees in his group and for his broad horizon, insightful guidance and brilliant ideas that inspire my Ph.D. work. After so many years I still remember clearly that it was to him that I made my first oral exam in English, and from that moment on, his support are always with me. I am deeply grateful to him. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Ir. Sjoerd W. H. de Haan, who is the weekly supervisor of my both Master and Ph.D. study. Thank him for so many interesting technical discussions and guidance, and for spending a large amount of precious time on editing and commenting my thesis. Only with his encouragement I could have made it this far. The research presented in this thesis was sponsored by Quattro and Gen Power Box projects from Mastervolt company and SenterNovem, a research fund from Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. I would like to thank Mastervolt, especially its R&D manager Mr. Arno van Zwam, for giving the opportunity to do my master thesis in Mastervolt and for the numerous discussions during my Ph.D. work. for the time and effort they took to read my thesis and for their comments and suggestions. In addition, I would like to thank my office roommate Dr. Bart Roodenburg, for your technical support in the first part of my Ph.D. work, and for so many helpful discussions about power electronics and the lifetime in Netherlands. Thanks for those years under the same roof. for so many enjoyable activities together. I am also very grateful to my colleagues in Philips Lighting, Patrick Zijlstra, Waipang Chow, Marcel Beij and Luc Vogels, for translating the propositions into Dutch. Special thanks to my Master Shifu, Christiaan van Wijk, for translating …


The article discusses the fading future of Catholicism in Latin America. Topics covered include the figure of Christ the Redeemer in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, the drop in Latin America's Catholic population between 1910 and 2010, and the gradual decline in Latin America's fertility rate from the second half of the 20th century to the present. Also mentioned are the increasing use of contraceptives across Latin America and the loss of Catholic representation in Brazil.


Providing data models is essential for any protocol or standard to achieve cooperation with other ecosystems. This paper proposes a solution to save human efforts from tedious, repetitive, and easy-to-make mistake tasks when creating data models from the standardized ECHONET device objects. The proposed solution was able to generate data models such as device description for the ECHONET Lite web API, thing description schemes for the ECHONET Lite-Web of things integration, and the SAREF extended ontology for ECHONET Lite. Other data models and open API documents for each data model could be easily generated by simply adding more conversion rules. Generated data models have matched the requirements of human-generated data models. This solution is utilizing in a workflow to create the data model for the ECHONET Lite web API.


An ultra-wide bandwidth (UWB) dielectric rod antenna modified from its previous version developed by Chen (1999) is presented. Such antenna is useful in detecting shallowly buried targets, such as anti-personnel (AP) mines. Broad bandwidth electromagnetic energy is launched, guided and radiated from a dielectric rod that has a constant cross- section area and low-loss permittivity except at the end where the permittivity is gradually reduced to match to that of free air. The electromagnetic waves radiated out from rod end have field behavior similar to that of a Hertzian dipole. The low antenna clutter and weak antenna-ground interaction are two unique features. Its near-field radiation properties are investigated using three-dimensional finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulation technique. Some measurement and numerical simulation results are also included.


A fast heating assisted two-step sintering method is developed to fabricate multilayer ceramic capacitors with ultrahigh energy-storage density and efficiency.


A result is discussed which permits the summing of series whose terms have more complicated sign patterns than simply alternating plus and minus. The Alternating Series Test, commonly taught in beginning calculus courses, is a corollary. This result, which is not difficult to prove, widens the series summable by beginning students and paves the way for understanding more advanced questions such as convergence of Fourier series. An elementary exposition is given of Dirichlet's Test for the convergence of a series and an elementary example suitable for a beginning calculus class and a more advanced example involving a Fourier series which is appropriate for an advanced calculus class are provided. Finally, two examples are discussed for which Dirichlet's Test does not apply and a general procedure is given for deciding the convergence or divergence of these and similar examples.


What causes a combat pilot to misidentify and attack friendly forces on the modern battlefield? This study addresses this phenomenon of targeting error by analyzing the six most documented cases of air-to-ground and air-to-air fratricide (also known as "friendly fire" and "blue-on-blue") in Operations Desert Storm, Provide Comfort, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. Each incident – as detailed in official government and military documentation – is weighed against three distinct groups of causal theories identified by the existing scholarly literature on friendly fire: technological, human, and organizational. This examination is made to determine which of these, if any, best explain targeting-error fratricide in modern airpower, and whether there are individual factors common to most or all of the six cases. This study concludes that, while each group of theories offers a valid perspective, one particular factor with technological, human, and organizational characteristics is common to each of the incidents. Specifically, dysfunctional interaction between pilots and airborne or groundbased controllers was either a critical or abetting causal factor in each case, and is deserving of increased attention and mitigation efforts by the U.S. military. This study concludes with policy recommendations addressing this dynamic as a critical factor in targeting-error fratricide.


During the course of collecting trips made in 1976–8 two anthozoans, the actiniarian Aiptasiogeton comatus (Andres), and the octocoral Cornularia cornucopiae (Pallas) were found in Portland Harbour. Neither species has been previously recorded in British waters. A third species, Isozoanthus sulcatus (Gosse), was collected on the shores of the Gower Peninsula, South Wales. Since this species was last recorded in British waters in 1861 and its true taxonomic status is uncertain it is described here.


Reinforced with steel rebar concrete centrifuged conical poles for power transmission poles receive corrosion damage to steel reinforcement during operation. These damages can lead to the failure of structures. Complete replacement of both longitudinal and transverse steel reinforcement by composite one is a way to increase the reliability and durability of such structures. This method also allows the use of cost-effective concretes with a low cement content. The research results have shown the viability of such solutions, but the use of composite reinforcement requires its prestressing. This article discusses the Russian practice of testing concrete centrifuged conical poles for strength, crack resistance and rigidity. A brief description of the prototypes and methods of their testing is given. The main results of bending tests of full-scale test samples are presented in the form of diagrams of their deformation. Analysis of the results showed that the test samples of poles are correspond to requirements of Russian norms for deformability, crack resistance and strength. According to the results the studied centrifugal concrete poles with prestressed longitudinal GFRP rebars and transverse spiral GFRP rebars are like traditional ones with steel reinforcement (in standardized strength, crack resistance and deflection values) and, therefore, can be used in building construction.


We describe a method for non-invasive, accurate and efficient 3D reconstruction of occluded scenes, from a minimal number of X-ray and range scan image acquisitions. The residuals of generalised epipolar constraints (GEC) are incorporated in a highly efficient bundle adjustment minimization, to obtain maximum likelihood estimations of the X-ray image calibration parameters from correspondences between scene points, image points and apparent contours of scene objects. Furthermore, we propose a multimodal template adequate for accurate joint calibration of X-ray and range scan images. It offers crucial advantages for security applications, such as minimal scene occlusion and an agile data acquisition. Finally we describe a shape-from-silhouettes method based on the state of the art, able to reconstruct scene objects with general 3D shapes. We combine these proposals in a full system for 3D reconstruction of occluded scenes, and use it to demonstrate the practical and computational advantages of the methods herein described, with respect to previous proposals, using both synthetic and real data experiments.


The ability of Delonix regia (Flamboyant) flower to remove Co(II), Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions from aqueous so- lutions through biosorption was investigated in multimetal batch experiments at 32oC. The metal ions concentration was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopic (AAS) method. The influence of pH, Contact time, adsorbent dosage and initial metal ion concentration were investigated. The study revealed that maximum removal of Co(II), Cu(II) Pb(II) ion from aqueous solution occurred at pH of 5. The contact time for the adsorption process was found to be at 60 minutes. The amount of metal ions adsorbed increases with increase in adsorbent dosage and initial metal ion concentration. The biosorption of Pb(II) and Co(II) ions exhibited pseudo-second-order kinetics models whereas Cu(II) ion followed for both pseudo first order and second order kinetics model. This study shows that Delonix regia flower is a viable agricultural waste for the removal of Co(II), Pb(II) and Cu(II) ions from aqueous solution.


Bumper for a motor vehicle having a bumper beam, which is directly or indirectly connected with longitudinal beams of the body support structure connectable at each end and which is covered by a visible-side outer shell, wherein the bumper support (1) local over the support course protruding at a left and / or right side of the support half, stable impact elevation (7) is mounted, wherein the bumper beam (1) at each end over Defoelemente (2) as the type of damage elements with the associated longitudinal beams (10, 11) is connected, characterized in that up to a preset on the bumper at an oblique impact force input threshold the arrangement of the impact survey a local bending of the bumper cross member (1) occurs in the connection region of the impact survey, wherein as much impact energy is absorbed that possibly the associated Defoelement (2), but not the associated longitudinal support (10, 11) plas is deformed table.


Insect resistant and susceptible peanut varieties, and full and reduced insecticide rates were evaluated for control of SCR pod injury. Peanuts were planted on 16 May with 36- inch row spacing. Bravo 720, Rovral 4 F and Kocide 404 S were applied during Jun, Jul and Aug for management of fungal diseases. Asana XL was applied at 0.01 lb (AI)/acre on 28 Aug for control of corn earworm. Test treatments were applied at planting (IF) or at pegging (Peg) time. IF treatments were applied in the seed furrow with a Noble applicator. Peg treatments were applied on 20 Jul in 14-inch bands over rows with a Noble applicator, then lightly incorporated with cultivator sweeps in row middles. A randomized complete block experimental design was used with 4 replicates; plots were 4 rows by 40 ft. Pod injury was determined on 5 Sep from 100 randomly selected pods/plot, taken from 5 plants/plot (20 pods/plant). Yield was based on digging (5 Oct), drying, combining and weighing peanuts from 2 center rows (80 row-ft)/plot.


X-ray diffraction, thermo-gravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscope spectroscopy studies were performed with molding sand and fly ash(received from carbon processing industry and Thermal Power Plant in India) to evaluate and compare their physical properties. It was found that several physical properties of fly ash received form carbon processing industry and Thermal Power Plants are similar. Permeability, green compression strength and dry compression strength of various compositions of fly ash were tested to explore their potential as an alternative to molding sand, thereby reducing the dependency on the latter, as well as to suggest an effective way for disposal of fly ash.


ABSTRACT In a first part the thermodynamic framework used to introduced the behavioral constitutive equations of solid materials is reminded. Using illustrative examples, the different terms of the energy balance are introduced, specially those due to thermomechanical coupling mechanisms. In a second part the main concepts on multiscale approach are introduced, focussing on coupling aspects, and the way of embedding coupled constitutive equations in a finite element code is discussed. We finally present four applications to illustrate the above- mentioned approaches.


The iterative majority improved decoders are described. They are called multithreshold decoders (MTD). These decoders have a property of convergence to the solution of the optimum decoder with keeping linear complexity of implementation, which one is a property of usual threshold procedures. Different decoding applications are discussed. Experimental results are submitted. Decoder realization at the PLIS basis is discussed also.


Cumulative evidence suggests that dietary monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) reduce risk factors for metabolic disorders, which lead to many chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular and non-insulin-dependent diabetes. Pequi oil (Caryocar brasiliense) is high in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidant carotenoids, which have also been associated to reduced risk for NCDs. However, there is lacking of studies evaluating pequi oil physiological effects from the perspective of being a functional food, which means, associated to a usual diet and a healthy lifestyle, being the regular physical exercise a part of it. In this context, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of pequi oil intake, associated to regular aerobic physical exercise (RAPE) on variables related to growth, metabolism and on cardiovascular parameters of rats, from early stages of life (post weaning) to early adulthood (20 weeks old). The experimental protocol consisted of four groups (n = 8) of male Wistar rats: CS animals fed chow; CT received chow and RAPE; OS received chow added pequi oil (2.25 / 100g =+50% of the chow lipid content) and OT received chow added pequi oil and RAPE. The RAPE was held in a pool at intensities and progressive loading, and the diets were fed ad libitum for 15 weeks. Food intake and body weight were monitored throughout the experimental period to determine food and caloric intake, weight gain, feed efficiency ratio (FER%) and body mass index (BMI). Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and heart rate (HR) were measured at baseline and in the last week of the experiment. On the last day, animals were euthanized and the abdominal and thoracic cavities were opened for sampling. Hearts were removed and the contractility (+dP/dt) and relaxation (-dP/dt) indexes were analyzed by the isolated heart technique. It were determined: (a) The left tibia length (b) the relative liver, pancreas and hearts weights and the retroperitoneal and epididimal fat pad weights; (c) plasma concentrations of cholesterol (COL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides (TG), glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR index and COL/HDL ratio; (d) hepatic TG and COL levels. The association of pequi oil intake to RAPE did not influence significantly growth (food and caloric intake, body weight, FER%, organ weights, tibia length), SBP and HR, blood glucose and COL/HDL ratio. However, it prevented fat accumulation in the visceral region and plasma insulin and HOMA-IR increases caused by the pequi oil intake solely. Moreover, the pequi oil intake associated to RAPE improved the heart contraction and relaxation ability. Thus, we can infer that pequi oil intake, when associated to RAPE can improve mainly cardiac function without exerting deleterious effects on growth and on glucose and lipid metabolism.


The polymerization of butyl methacrylate in oil-in-water emulsions stabilized by an anionic surfactant, sodium dodecylsulfate, was investigated using a chemical initiator free sonochemical polymerization technique. The effect of surfactant concentration on the rate of polymerization, the number of latex particles formed, particle diameters and the molecular weights of the polymers produced were examined. The rate of polymerization was significantly enhanced at surfactant concentration greater than 0.5 wt %. Stable latex dispersions containing nanoparticles (40−85 nm) with average polymer molecular masses of about 7 × 106 g mol−1 were obtained. The mechanism of latex particle formation is suggested to be through sonochemically produced radicals initiating polymerization of dispersed nanometer sized monomer droplets.


This chapter presents the design and implementation of seamless integration of two complex systems component-based distributed application framework ProActive and Gridbus Resource Broker. The integration solution provides: (i) the potential ability for component-based distributed applications developed using ProActive framework, to leverage the economy-based and dataintensive scheduling algorithms provided by the Gridbus Resource Broker; (ii) the execution runtime environment from ProActive for the Gridbus Resource Broker over component-based distributed applications. It also presents the evaluation of the integration solution based on examples provided by the ProActive distribution and some future directions of the current system.


Adoption of new Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has been one of the most challenging issues in developing part of the world. Uptake of new ICT innovations involves fulfilling many requirements ranging from technical to human resources. This study investigated factors influencing administrative staffs toward the adoption of cloud computing. Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model serves as an assessment framework to understand administrative staffs' behavioral intention towards cloud computing. The results of T-test showed that there is no significant influence of gender on effort expectancy, performance expectancy and social influence of administrative staffs towards the adoption of cloud computing. Similarly, results of ANOVA revealed there is no significant influence of age on effort expectancy, performance expectancy and social influence of administrative staffs towards the adoption of cloud computing. On the other hand, the result of Linear regression showed that there is a significant relationship between effort expectancy, performance expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions on administrative staff's behavioral intention towards the adoption of cloud computing. Knowledge gained from the study is advantageous to both the tertiary administrative staffs and the Nigerian ICT policy makers.


Abstract : For a heterogeneous system with heat generation by solid-gas reaction and heat loss by conduction-convection, the mass oscillations at the interface can play an important role in ignition. A theoretical analysis was carried out for such a system in which the ignition process was defined in terms of a reaction mechanism involving transition from kinetic to diffusive control. In a numerical example it was shown how the ignitability of a system varies with initial temperature, oscillation frequency, and amplitude. The analysis offers some indication of the importance of various parameters on the ignition and extinction of an oscillating heterogeneous system. (Author)


Digital Rights Protection (DRP) is the broad class of technological, legal, and other regulatory means used to protect the rights of the owners of digital content, while simultaneously protecting the usage rights and the privacy of the users. This article briefly discusses the technological aspect of the issue.


Abstract The performance of a robot can be enhanced by increasing its output. However, increasing the output of rigid actuators such as motors and hydraulic actuators will likely increase the weight of the robot. Conversely, organisms such as human beings achieve high output within a short time by accumulating and releasing the elastic energy stored in their muscles; thus, providing an instantaneous force. Moreover, the viscoelastic properties of muscle enable organisms to control their instantaneous force outputs and overall movements. Therefore, in this study, we developed a manipulator with two-degree-of-freedom (DOF) variable viscoelastic joints. The manipulator comprised straight-fiber-type artificial muscles and a magnetorheological (MR) brakes. The ability of a manipulator to generate controlled movement from an instantaneous force was tested in a throwing operation. This simple two-DOF variable viscoelastic manipulator with apparent viscosity control by the MR brakes achieved successful throwing motions. However, it was not possible to calculate the experimental parameters from the target operation in previous study. Therefore, we focused on particle swarm optimization (PSO) as a parameter search method. In this paper, we try to optimize parameters of the throwing movement by combining the spring model of a two-DOF variable viscoelastic manipulator with the PSO method.


Objective
To investigate the epidemiological distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the knowledge of prophylactic vaccine in outpatient screening of female population, and to provide evidence for the prevention and treatment of cervical lesions.

Methods
Epidemiological data of female patients who were screened for HPV in gynecological outpatient clinic of Suizhou Hospital Affiliated to Hubei University of Medicine from January 2017 to December 2017 were collected and their cognition of HPV and vaccination were investigated by questionnaire.

Results
The infection rate of HPV in outpatient opportunistic screening was 16.55% (143/864). There was significant difference in HPV infection rate among different age groups (χ2 = 23.61, P < 0.001). The genotypes of HPV infection were mostly single-type infection (73.43%), multiple genotypes infection accounted for 26.57% (38/143). High risk subtype infection accounted for 70.63%, the most subtypes of which were HPV16, 58 and 52; the low risk type accounted for 29.37%, among which, HPV 81, 11 and 42 were the most common. In the questionnaire survey, HPV cognition was correlated with age and educational level (χ2 = 70.89, 70.63; all P < 0.001), but was not related to household registration (χ2 = 1.85, P = 0.17). There were 27.39% (309/1 128) investigated crowd knew HPV infection, 20.12% (227/ 1 128) knew HPV vaccine, 37.59% (424/1 128) were willing to be vaccinated, only 12% (51/424) of them were willing to be vaccinated at their own expense; the price of HPV vaccine is the main factor affecting the acceptance.

Conclusions
HPV infection rate was high and the awareness and prevention of HPV was low among the female population with opportunistic screening. The precancerous screening of HPV should be strengthened and the awareness and acceptance of HPV vaccine should be actively promoted.

Key words:
Cervical cancer; Human papillomavirus; Genotype; Vaccine


Abstarct A major transformation has occurred in rural China since reform policies were initiated in 1979. It has been particularly dramatic in the highly commercialized Pearl River delta region of the southern province of Guangdong, provenance of most North Americans of Chinese origin. The delta region has become firmly incorporated into the global economy and its external linkages, especially to Hong Kong, have been central in the process of change. The responses to reform in the areas of the delta dominated by an Overseas Chinese presence have been distinctive. Varied family economic strategies have arisen to meet the opportunities implicit in the new policies for rural reform in a region in which remittances from abroad are significant. There has also been the revival of complex kinship groupings (lineages) energized by Overseas Chinese communities, which have assumed important roles in regional economic development.


The paper discusses the question "Can learning be organized?" in a systems theoretical framework. The paper shortly introduces two case studies as examples of students' approaches, acts and reflections to the offered environment for learning. The preliminary question in both case studies is: What happens when students familiar with face-to-face-communication (f2f) forums as environment for learning have to participate in social systems, which are not only f2f-environments, but a mix of communication forums like Learning Management Systems, net-mediated conference forums, blogs, wikies, and pod-/ vodcasts. The research design is a mix of methods using observation, group and individual interviews, print outs of conference communication, and final written student-evaluations.


Promoting high-achieving students plays an important role in the school context. Hence, one promising support measure within the mixed-ability classroom is differentiated instruction (DI). The current systematic review examined (1) the impact of DI on high-achieving students' outcomes, (2) to what extent DI is used, (3) how useful teachers and high-achieving students perceive DI, and (4) which barriers and facilitators are encountered in DI's implementation. Forty-nine studies from 2000 to 2019 were included. Differentiated instruction impacted high-achieving students' academic achievement and motivational-affective characteristics predominantly positive. However, there was considerable heterogeneity between and within studies. Teachers typically did not use DI for high-achieving students proactively nor on a regular basis. However, teachers and high-achieving students perceived DI as valuable for encouraging high-achieving students. The barriers found might help to explain discrepancies between the extent of usage and the perceived utility, whereas the identified facilitators suggest how to overcome these barriers.


This study aimed at identifying the satisfaction degree of the faculty members on their occupational tasks in the Hashemite University, and its relationship with their gender, academic rank and college variables. The study sample consisted of (185) faculty members, forming (32%) of the total study population. The researchers constructed a 31-item questionnaire distributed over three dimensions: teaching, scientific research, and community service. The study results showed that the satisfaction degree of the faculty members on their occupational tasks in the Hashemite University was high. The order of the dimensions was: teaching, scientific research and community service, respectively. The results further showed an apparent statistically significant difference in the satisfaction degree of the faculty members on their occupational tasks, attributed to their gender in all the dimensions in favor of the females. However, it was in favor of the "professor" rank according to the academic rank variable, and in favor of the scientific colleges faculty members according to the college variable. In the light of the study results, the researchers recommend enhancing the functionality of the faculty members, and maintaining the high level the faculty members achieved through the results of this study.


The tetrahydrofuran (thf) adduct, [Re2Br2(CO)6(thf)2], reacts with diphenyl diselenide in toluene at room temperature to give the orange-red [Re2Br2(CO)6(Se2Ph2)]. Three-dimensional X-ray analysis has shown this to be the first known example of a complex containing a Se2R2 unit bridging two metal atoms. The substance crystallises from toluene in the monoclinic system, space group C2/c with cell constants a= 11.813(3), b= 10.645(2), c= 19.593(5)A, and β= 106.92(2)°, U= 2 357.15 A3, and Dc= 2.85 g cm–3, M= 1 012.41 and Z= 4. Solution and refinement of the structure proved the compound to be isostructural with the diphenyl disulphide analogue reported previously and to consist of two ReI atoms linked by two bromines and by a Se–Se bridge. The six carbonyl groups are distributed around the two rhenium atoms in two groups of three, each in a fac arrangement, thus completing the six co-ordination. The normals to the planes defined by Re(1)–Br(1)–Br(2) and by Re(2)–Br(1)–Br(2) intersect at an angle of 31°, a result which is similar to that found for the diphenyl disulphide, the dimethyl disulphide, and the tetraphenyldiphosphine derivatives. The Re–Se and Se–Se distances and the Re–Se–Se angle are 2.604(4) and 2.411(23)A, and 106.2(1)°, respectively. The Re–Se–C(phenyl) angle is 109.9(8)°, while the Re ⋯ Re and Br ⋯ Br contacts are 3.90(4) and 3.462(20)A. The Se(1) atom is 0.92 A above the plane defined by Re(1)–Se(2)–C(phenyl) and the Re atoms are almost exactly in the plane defined by the two bromines and the two carbonyl carbon atoms; the torsional angle around the Se–Se bond is –121.4°. Similar to the dimethyl disulphide and the diphenyl disulphide derivatives, the diphenyl diselenide ligand of [Re2Br2(CO)6(Se2Ph2)] is displaced by thf.


Callus was induced using seeds as explant on Dioscorea nipponica Makino,the best culture media is MS+6-BA3.0 mg/L+NAA2.0 mg/L and the highest frequency is 18.9%.The gemma can be induced when the callus was transferred into the culture medium with MS+6-BA2.0mg/L+NAA2.0mg/L and the highest inducement frequency can be reach 75.5%.The buds grow strongly on the culture medium with 1/2MS+6-BA1.0mg/L+KT1.0mg/L and radicate easily on the culture medium with 1/2MS +6-BA 0.5mg/L +NAA 0.5mg/L.Radication frequency can be reach 86.2%.The transplanting medium in rotten quality soil,vermiculite and river sand by 1 to 1 to 1,is useful,84.8% seedlings can survive if the technique is fine.


MUSCLE SYMPATHETIC NERVE ACTIVITY DURING DYNAMIC EXERCISE IN HUMANS: CONTRIBUTIONS TO BLOOD FLOW RESPONSES Connor John Doherty Advisor: University of Guelph, 2018 Dr. Philip J. Millar This study investigated muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and superficial femoral artery (SFA) blood flow during rhythmic handgrip (RHG), one-legged cycling, and concurrent arm and leg dynamic exercise. Thirty-five healthy young participants completed two study visits. MSNA was acquired during 3-minutes of RHG, one-legged cycling, and concurrent exercise. On a second day, SFA blood flow was assessed during identical exercise protocols. SFA blood flow and MSNA were both recorded from the inactive leg. SFA vascular conductance was unchanged during RHG but reduced similarly during concurrent and cycling exercise. RHG increased MSNA burst frequency but not burst amplitude or total MSNA. Cycling and concurrent exercise did not change MSNA burst frequency but increased burst amplitude, and total MSNA. With cycling and concurrent exercise, reductions in resting SFA vascular conductance occurred in parallel to increases in MSNA burst strength and total activity but not MSNA burst frequency.


From Summary: "The experimental investigation of damping screens described herein was undertaken primarily to test theories of the effects of damping screens and to obtain information on the performance of screens in oblique flow. The characteristics investigated include the damping of longitudinal and lateral components of turbulence, the effect of screens on scale, the conditions for the production of turbulence and eddies by screens, and the damping of spatial variations of mean speed."


Instability is investigated experimentally in homeotropically oriented layers of nematic liquid crystals with positive dielectric anisotropy. It is shown that the domain pattern observed optically in the nematic phase is a consequence of destablization of the director by electroconvective "isotropic" flow currents. The mechanism of threshold destabilization of a homogeneous molecular distribution in thin nematic liquid crystal layers is discussed.


Family business plays an important role in both the world and China's economy. Based on the definition of Succession Planning, this paper set a specific scope of family business and examines its CEO's succession plan. Two different categories of family business succession plans are distinguished here, and the emphasis is put on describing the dynamic process of the first category - intra - family business succession planning. Eventually, this paper discusses the application of family business planning under Chinese cultural background.


Providing explanations based on user reviews in recommender systems (RS) can increase users' perception of system transparency. While static explanations are dominant, interactive explanatory approaches have emerged in explainable artificial intelligence (XAI), so that users are more likely to examine system decisions and get more arguments supporting system assertions. However, little attention has been paid to conversational approaches for explanations targeting end users. In this paper we explore how to design a conversational interface to provide explanations in a review-based RS, and present the results of a Wizard of Oz (WoOz) study that provided insights into the type of questions users might ask in such a context, as well as their perception of a system simulating such a dialog. Consequently, we propose a dialog management policy and user intents for explainable review-based RS, taking as an example the hotels domain.


Purpose: The theme of effects of contract farming on income of farmers has been strongly debated by scholars in recent years, especially in developing countries. This article attempts to investigate the influence of contract farming on the income of farmers in tea production in Phu Tho province of Vietnam. Research Method: Primary data for the study is gathered by a cross-sectional survey on 358 tea farmers in five districts of Phu Tho province between March and June 2016. Propensity score matching is employed to assess effects of contract participation on income of tea farmers in Phu Tho province, Vietnam. Findings: Our results suggest that contract farming can have a minor positive impact on farmers' incomes. The average income of contracted farmers is found to be higher than that of their counterparts by about US$720 per year. Due to this small difference of income, contract farming plays an important role in procuring leaf tea, stabilising prices of leaf tea and generating employment rather than enhancing income for tea farmers. Originality/value: The research contributes to the empirical work by providing an evidence on influences of contract farming on income of tea farmers as well as re-examining the importance of contract farming to improving livelihood of tea farmers in Phu Tho province, Vietnam.


The relatively thin (10-45 m) Bazhenov Formation covers an area of about one million sq km in the central part of West Siberia. The rock is close to the so-called black shales and is high in sapropelic organic matter. The clastic component is largely clay , and the authigenic components are silica, carbonate, and pyrite. See Fig. 1. This unit was deposited during the maximum of the Late Jurassic-Early Cretaceous transgression.