The electroencephalogram (EEG) signal has been widely studied in a brain computer interface (BCI) or a polysomnography (PSG) study. However, the EEG can be easily contaminated by electrocardiogram (ECG) artifacts due to high electrical energy of ECG. These artifacts obstruct the analysis of EEG signal. This paper proposes sparse derivative method for eliminating ECG artifacts from a single-channel EEG. In order to evaluate the performance of our proposed method, we compared the proposed method with the combined ensemble empirical mode decomposition and independent component analysis (EEMD+ICA) method by simulation. In addition, we applied the sparse derivative method to real ECG contaminated EEG datasets. Our proposed method could not only estimate and remove ECG artifacts, but also preserve spectral contents of the original EEG. The results of simulation and real data indicate that our proposed method performs better than the EEMD+ICA method.


I will begin by conjecturing a cosmological generalization of black hole complementarity (also known as the central dogma). I will then discuss three theories and argue that they are inconsistent with second law of thermodynamics if the cosmological version of the dogma is correct. The three theories are: the big rip; cyclic cosmology; and the Farhi-Guth-Guven mechanism for creating inflating universes behind black hole horizons.


Snakebite is a serious medical problem worldwide. In Thailand each year thousands of individuals are bitten and hundred die. The cobra (Naja naja kaouthia) induces the highest mortality rate. The most toxic compounds in cobra venom are neurotoxins. Neurotoxins are affecting to the neuromuscular junction and causing flaccid paralysis. N-Acetylcysteine(NAC) is the mucolytic agent that could destroy disulfide bond of protein and glycoprotein. As the cobra neurotoxins are a polypeptide chain cross-linking by disulfide bonds, thus, it is very interesting to test whether NAC could neutralize cobra venom since disulfide bound is important for the activity of snake neurotoxins. The NAC (Fluimucil) was tested both in vitro and in vivo for antivenom activity against Naja naja kaouthia venom. The NAC has been found to have a significant (p <0.05) antagonistic effect on the inhibition of neuromuscular transmission produced by the venom in isolated rat phrenic nerve hemidiaphragm preparations. Mice, intraperitoneally injected with cobra venom at 0.75 mg/kg had the survival time of 21.90 ± 2.96 min, while mixing with the NAC to 75 or 150 mg/kg just before injected resulted in an increase of survival time significantly (p <0.05) to 40.83 ± 4.36 min and 53.83 ± 8.50 min, respectively. Preincubation of the cobra venom with NAC, at 75 or 150 mg/kg, at 37 °C for 1 h could significant (p <0.05) increase survival time of the animal to 45.57 ± 5.50 min and 91.67 ± 14.96 min, respectively. The present finding suggests that the NAC have the antagonistic effect against the lethality of cobra venom both on in vitro and in vivo models.


Since Nigeria's return to electoral rule in 1999, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) ruled the country as the majority party at both levels of its federal system until 2015. However, despite this dominance, the relationship between presidents and governors was often so divisive that the instability within the party threatened the stability of not only the ruling governments, but also the federation as a whole and undermined its productivity. This article examines this anomaly against the background of scholarship emphasizing the crucial role of federation-wide parties in fostering smooth intergovernmental bargains and in facilitating federal stability. It argues that Nigeria's recent experience provides counterevidence of this theory and discusses the mutually reinforcing contextual factors that might have influenced this development, focusing on the PDP's norms and the country's intergovernmental fiscal structure.


The present invention discloses a display apparatus comprising a display unit and a VA liquid crystal cell side of the front side polarizing plate and a polarizing plate are provided on the back surface side of the VA liquid crystal display; wherein, a VA liquid crystal display optical path difference △ wavelength of 550nm at the unit nd of 305.8nm to 324.3nm; front side polarizer provided on a side of the light exit direction of the liquid crystal cell of VA; front side and the rear side polarizing plate comprises a polarizer biaxial compensation film, a biaxial compensation film at a wavelength of 550nm in-plane retardation Ro of 50.4 ~ 78nm, retardation Rth-b of 168 ~ 260nm in the thickness direction of the wavelength at 550nm. By setting an appropriate value of the biaxial retardation compensation film in the display device, compared to a conventional biaxial compensation film compensation structure, significantly decreased light leakage amount, the contrast viewing angle close to the horizontal has increased significantly, the display effect is further obtained It improved.


The present invention, for holding a sample, particularly for atomic force microscope, for the sample holder. Such sample holder comprises a sample pan (1), comprising a bottom (2), and a sample (15) receives, and openings arranged in the bottom part (2) to hold (3) provided. Furthermore, the present invention provides a sample holder system, and the biopsy instrument (18) to the sample holder, to a method of moving such as a biological sample (15). .FIELD 1


Blood pressure and body temperature measurements need to be accurate for correct diagnosis and monitoring. Instruments based on new technologies may not give accurate measurements. This article considers the implications for healthcare professionals. The need for instruments to be traceably calibrated to national standards is emphasised.


We have been developing a new analytical transmission electron microscope for coincidence transmission electron microscopy (TEM) that in principle enables the observation of elemental mapping images of trace elements. In the present paper, we report a new digital waveform measurement system for x‐ray detection that has been newly developed and installed, instead of an analogue coincidence detection system used in our previous work, to shorten the measurement time. The high‐speed measurement system based on a digital waveform fitting technique improves successfully the time resolution of coincidence TEM from 110 to 80 ns, leading to a 30% reduction of the total measurement time compared with that of the previous system. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


One of the major obstacles which is often perceived in ensuring the quality of education is large classes. Large classes are a reality in many schools and many countries. Generally, it is a direct result of inadequate of funding and insufficient numbers of teachers and classrooms. This paper does not offbr a universal solution to all the challenges related to teaching in large classes. It attempts to present a variety of practical methods and practices that could be useful for teachers who need to deal with a large class everyday, especially in teaching Engilsh. It addresses issues such as how to prepare and plan lessons specifically adapted for large classes. It shows pointers to manage the class in the best possible way and to see a large classes as a resource, rather than a challenge, to teaching-leaming process. It also provides a guidance in creating and managing inclusive classrooms as well as in maintaining positive discipline within them. Overall. it is hoped that the content and methods presented will help teachers to meet the needs of their daily' work in facing a large class.


Drosophila melanogaster alcohol dehydrogenase undergoes changes both in specific activity and in the isozyme forms during the course of development of larvae and adults. Specific activity is high in the larva, low in the pupa, high again in the young imago, and declines gradually thereafter. One of the five forms of alcohol dehydrogenase, ADH2, appears only for one day immediately preceding pupation and is present from days 1–12 of adult life; ADH3 and ADH5 are present at all ages. These results are interpreted to mean: (1) alcohol dehydrogenase is physiologically regulated, (2) isozyme forms can be produced and removed and (3) a mechanism presumbly exists to do this.


The object of this research is trying to identify the patients of Chinese traumatology, to assess the quality of Chinese traumatology in Chinese medical hospital, and to investigate patients' satisfaction of service during therapy. By the analysis of this report, the gender ratio of sample is close, but female patients are more than male patients. From the analysis of age, the highest rate is 30.2% which is ranged from 50 to 59 years old. However, the major group is from age 20 to 59 years old (88.6%). This result indicates that patients who would like to take Chinese medicine are not only senior people. From the analysis of education, senior high (30.2%) and junior high schools students (24.5%) are the highest groups and college students are the second highest group. The consequence reveals the greater level of education and the acceptance of Chinese medicine. From the analysis of marital status, married population (73.6%) is the main segment. From the analysis of profession, free lancers (32.1%) and blue-collar workers (26.4%) are main groups. Followed by the first ratio groups are white-collar workers (17%) and government workers (15.1%). From the analysis of income, the major income group (60.3%) earns from $20,000 to $50,000. Normally, 66 percent of patients are loyal customers. From the frequency of consulting doctor, patients (54.7%) who visit clinic one to three times a month are significant. The highest frequency of consulting doctor is below nine times (84.9%) a month. From the analysis of general parts, people are mostly satisfied with the convenience of traffic and customer service. However, patients are unsatisfied with the quality of toilet and limited space. From the analysis of consulting, people are mostly satisfied with the nursing staff's attitude and privacy. But, patients are unsatisfied that Chinese doctor assigned assistants to execute medical therapy and long waiting time. From the analysis of consequence, people are mostly satisfied with the recovery result after consulting and effectiveness of therapy. However, patients are unsatisfied that the clinic or hospital directly follows up with patients' conditions.


The development of economy and society needs practical talents, and local colleges and universities are an important position to train such talents. Based on the characteristics of the elements of Applied Technology Talents Training under the perspective of integration of industry and education, this paper adopts the theory of "cultural ecology" to construct the ecological development system of local applied universities, including the development goal system of educational ecology, curriculum system, practice system, teacher system and cultural system, and puts forward a multicoordinated training mode of applied technology talents. To realize the transformation of education from traditional mode to ecological development.


An electron spin resonance (ESR) imaging system, capable of acquiring three-dimensional (3D) images with a resolution of ∼10×10×30 μm in a few minutes of acquisition, is presented. This ESR microscope employs a commercial continuous wave ESR spectrometer, working at 9.1 GHz, in conjunction with a miniature imaging probe (resonator+gradient coils), gradient current drivers, and control software. The system can acquire the image of a small (∼1.5×1.5×0.25 mm) sample either by the modulated field gradient method, the projection reconstruction method, or by a combination of the two. A short discussion regarding the resolution of the modulated field gradient method in two-dimensional (2D) and 3D imaging is given. Detailed descriptions of the various system components are provided, along with several examples of 2D and 3D images that demonstrate the capabilities of the system.


We present results on the environmental dependence of the star-forming galaxy main sequence in 11 galaxy cluster fields at 1.0 < z < 1.5 from the Gemini Observations of Galaxies in Rich Early Environments Survey (GOGREEN) survey. We use a homogeneously selected sample of field and cluster galaxies whose membership is derived from dynamical analysis. Using [$\rm{O{\small II}}$]-derived star formation rates (SFRs), we find that cluster galaxies have suppressed SFRs at fixed stellar mass in comparison to their field counterparts by a factor of 1.4 ± 0.1 (∼3.3σ) across the stellar mass range: 9.0 < log (M*/M⊙) < 11.2. We also find that this modest suppression in the cluster galaxy star-forming main sequence is mass and redshift dependent: the difference between cluster and field increases towards lower stellar masses and lower redshift. When comparing the distribution of cluster and field galaxy SFRs to the star-forming main sequence, we find an overall shift towards lower SFRs in the cluster population, and note the absence of a tail of high SFR galaxies as seen in the field. Given this observed suppression in the cluster galaxy star-forming main sequence, we explore the implications for several scenarios such as formation time differences between cluster and field galaxies, and environmentally induced star formation quenching and associated time-scales.


Preface 1. Introduction Juan Jose Carreras Part I. Music in the Theatre: 2. From Literes to Nebra: Spanish dramatic music between tradition and modernity Juan Jose Carreras 3. Opera and ballet in public theatres of the Iberian peninsula Xoan M. Carreira 4. Financial management at the Teatro de los Canos del Peral, 1786-99 Michael F. Robinson Part II. Vocal Music, Sacred and Secular: 5. Liturgical music with orchestra, 1750-1800 Jose V. Gonzalez Valle 6. Italianate sections in the villancicos of the royal chapel, 1700-40 Alvaro Torrente 7. An unknown repertory: the cantatas of Jayme de la Te y Sagau (Lisbon, 1715-26) Gerhard Doderer 8. Spanish cantatas in the Mackworth collection at Cardiff Juan Jose Carreras Part III. Symphonic Music: 9. Austrian symphonies in the Royal Palace, Madrid David Wyn Jones 10. Iberian symphonism, 1779-1809: some observations Teresa Cascudo 11. The symphony in Catalonia, c. 1760-1808 Josep M. Vilar i Torrens Part IV. Instrumental Music: 12. Musical instruments: tradition and innovation Cristina Bordas 13. 'El diablo vestido de fraile': some unpublished correspondence of Padre Soler George Truett Hollis 14. The Villahermosa manuscript: an important source of late eighteenth-century Spanish keyboard music Benjamin Lipkowitz 15. Some unpublished works of Jose Elias Agueda Pedrero-Encabo 16. The rise of the modern guitar in Spain Javier Suarez-Pajares Part V. Spanish Music in the New World: 17. Cathedral music in Spanish America Alfred E. Lemmon 18. Eighteenth-century Spanish music in Mexico Jaime Gonzalez-Quinones Index.


: In the course of borehole drilling through shale formations very often there are serious problems associated with the instability of the borehole. Most of these problems do not result from the low mechanical strength of the drilled rocks, but from the chemically reac tive nature of the rocks. Reactive shale-clay rocks are hydrated under the influence of water-based drilling muds. Hydrated cuttings at the bottom of the borehole adhere to the surface of the bit and metal parts of the drill string (drill pipes, drill collars), forming a plastic mixture that prevents direct contact between the drill blades and the surface of the rock to be cut. The excessive increase in the contents of the clayey plastic mixture on the bit and the drill pipe affects the drilling process by increasing the torque. As a result of the increased resistance, the pipe may get stuck, hydraulic indicators may deteriorate, which reduces the rate of penetration (ROP). This article presents research on the selection and implementation of a new type of anti-precipitation agent to water-based drilling muds, preventing the sticking of the bit and accretion of cuttings on the drill string. The selection of anti-accretion agents was carried out ac-cording to the methodology considering the influence of individual factors to reduce the accretion phenomenon. A number of accretion tests were carried out to determine the effect of the type of rock used, the exposure time of the drill cuttings to drilling mud influence, the impact of the size of the formed cuttings and the mechanical load on the accretion phenomenon. Studies on the selection of anti-accretion agents were carried out on open-pit rock samples in the environment of water-based drilling muds. The obtained results were analyzed allowing the formulation of the anti-accretion composition, which can be used as an additive to water-based drilling muds, preventing the drilling bit from getting stuck and the accretion of cuttings. The use of the developed agent has allowed for more than 90% reduction of accretion of drill cuttings compared to muds without the addition of this type of agent, as well as its much higher efficiency than the anti-accretion agent used .in the Polish drilling industry.


B. T he patient exhibits at least one of the following behaviors that are associated with observed or inferred evidence of emotional distress (e.g. rapid changes in mood, irritability, outbursts). T he behavior has been persistent or frequently recurrent for a minimum of two weeks' and represents a change from the patient's usual behavior. (a) Excessive motor activity (examples include: pacing, rocking, gesturing, pointing fingers, restlessness, performing repetitious mannerisms). (b) Verbal aggression (e.g. yelling, speaking in an excessively loud voice, using profanity, screaming, shouting). (c) Physical aggression (e.g. grabbing, shoving, pushing, resisting, hitting others, kicking objects or people, scratching, biting, throwing objects, hitting self, slamming doors, tearing things, and destroying property).


Shock absorbers are fundamental part of the vehicle suspension. Suspensions are needed to guarantee vehicle handling and passenger riding comfort. For good handling and braking performance of the vehicle, the tire-road contact forces need to be as stable as possible. Each wheel should always remain in contact with the ground. Comfort means that vibrations, induced by road profile during riding, are of a minimal nuisance to the passengers. When designing a new vehicle, a lot of development effort is focused on the optimal choice of the suspension parameters, stiffness and damping. This paper presents some results of an experimental study conducted on three shock absorbers types that are in current production at Magneti-Marelli. Experimental tests were performed in conditions of random excitation. The aim of this study, based on the experimental data and by use of statistical methods, was to investigate which of the kinematic parameters of excitation has the major impact on damping force of shock absorber (displacement, velocity or acceleration).


For a better understanding of the processes that determine tropical forest dynamics, studies that investigate vegetation both above and below ground are needed. By studying seed banks it is possible to determine, for example, the natural regeneration capacity of vegetation, the viability of the soil seed bank as well as its influence at structuring plant communities. However, little is known about the processes that can generate variation in the seed bank structure, particularly in semideciduous forests. The main aim of this study was to know the soil seed bank composition in a semideciduous seasonal forest fragment, and also to investigate some processes that may generate variations in this structure. Besides, it was determined below (seed bank) and above ground (vegetation) similarity. Firstly, the density (seedling numbers), the richness, and the diversity and species composition were compared among areas of different sucessional stages, and among different soil depths and season (rainy and dry season). After that, the similarity between the soil seed bank and local vegetation was compared. It was observed that the main source of variation of seedling numbers, richness, and species diversity was the depth at which seed samples were obtained. In overall, samples from the litterfall had significantly higher seedling numbers, species richness and diversity than the other depths (0-10cm and 10-20cm); this difference occurred at both in the rainy and dry season. Comparisons of species richness and diversity between the rainy and dry season showed that both significantly differed between seasons, and higher values were observed in the rainy season. Seedling numbers did not differ between seasons. Species composition was more similar between pairs of samples from depths near to each other; for example, for both seasons samples from the 0-10cm depth were more similar in species composition to those from the 10-20cm depth than to those from the litterfall. The different sucessional stages did not interfere in the seed bank structure, even though it was observed a little similarity in species composition in the clearing stage in the rainy season. Finally, it was observed that herbaceous weeds predominated (>50%), the most abundant species were Gnaphalium coarctatum, Gallesia integrifolia, Talinum paniculatum, Cardamine bonariensis and Peresquia aculeata, and the vegetation and the soil seed bank presented low similarity.


``List structure'' arrangements of information are increasingly being used in digital data-processing applications. A ``push-down'' list is one manipulated in a last-in, first-out manner. The implementation of such a list structure is possible in a variety of ways. This paper describes one such method which uses a delay line as a storage device.


ABSTRACT We collected sediments from a eutrophic lake and explored the impact of aeration and crayfish on the release of phosphorous from the sediment. The experiment was conducted in nine 18-liter aquaria with a layer of 10-cm sediment on the bottom of each aquaria. Treatments included: (1) no aeration, (2) aeration with crayfish (Cherax destructor), and (3) aeration without crayfish with three replicates for each treatment. Aeration significantly increased the level of dissolved oxygen but did not affect pH. The presence of crayfish in the aerated aquaria significantly enhanced the concentration of soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) and the release of total phosphorus (TP) from the sediment. In the treatment with only aeration, concentrations of SRP in water and TP released from the sediment were significantly greater than those without aeration but were less than those with crayfish addition. After four weeks, the percentage of TP released from sediments to water column was 0.9%, 4.4%, and 7.5% in the treatments of no aeration, aeration only, and aeration plus crayfish, respectively. Our results indicate that activity of benthic invertebrates can be an important means of releasing phosphorus from sediments.


The federated learning (FL) method based on model aggregation can balance data and protect data privacy, but the existing method is difficult to achieve the same effectiveness as the centralized learning method under data sharing. In addition, it is difficult for the existing federated model to realize the real-time update of the clients' network parameters, because it inhibits the optimal performance of the client. Therefore, this article proposes an asynchronous update paradigm of FL with real-time identification of the client's network parameters to tackle the shortcomings. First, we adopt the linear fusion method based on sequential filtering and fuse the parameters of federated center asynchronously considering communication delay, which can approach the diagnostic accuracy based on the centralized learning. Second, we establish the real-time identification method for the clients based on linear filtering with the new labeled samples obtained at nonequal intervals, which expects the client to acquire better performance. Finally, we test the fault classification ability of the proposed method based on the actual collected fault dataset and the test platform of bearing fault dataset.


A series of monotonic and cyclic experiments, including constant strain-rate, creep and cyclic loading tests at isothermal temperatures between 25°C and 150°C, were performed to characterize the viscoplastic behavior of Pb-free Sn2.4Ag solder. The constitutive model of the solder was developed by fitting the monotonic test results to the Anand viscoplastic model. Finite element model based on the Anand constitutive model was then applied to simulate solder responses under various cyclic loading histories, and compared to the experimental results. From the comparison it was observed that the Anand model reproduces the isotropic hardening behavior of the Sn2.4Ag solder; but as a result of lacking tensorial state variable, the model could not capture the kinematic hardening response under load reversal. Nevertheless, the thermal recovery behavior of the Sn2.4Ag solder is limited under cyclic creep loading, and the Anand model is still suitable for predicting the Sn2.4Ag solder response under low-stress cyclic loading conditions.


This paper selects the financial data of China's A-share listed companies from 2016 to 2020, and analyzes the impact of blockchain technology investment on company audit expenses. The results show that there is a significant positive correlation between the blockchain technology investment and the company's audit expenses, that is, the more the company invests in blockchain technology, the higher the audit expenses will be. This is because the application of blockchain technology in listed companies will make auditors face higher risk of significant misstatement and audit risks, and then increase the related audit procedures, thus increasing the audit expenses. Conclusion The above results are still valid after robustness test and endogenous treatment. In this paper, the research on blockchain technology investment from the perspective of audit fees will help the theoretical circle to fully understand the potential effects of blockchain technology investment on social and economic development.


This pager reviews the configuration and styles of Task/Ambient air-conditioning(TAC) system, introduces the benefits of improving IAQ, occupant satisfaction and thermal comfort, and reducing the energy cost and floor-to-floor height of construction, points out the developing problems of TAC in China.


Value Engineering is far more than a means of simply reducing existing costs. This method can be delineating alternatives and to suggest choices based on the necessity of the function based on cost-worth relationship. The principles of Value Engineering can be applied by any sectors as a management tool to control costs. In this case, Value Engineering is used in construction industry to optimize material selection process. Based on its function, the study put local ceramic from some brands. The output shows rank of criteria based on the floor function determine by respondents. Further analysis with decision matrix gives recommendation of the best value from several ceramic brands. Keywords: Value Engineering, Material Selection Process, Ceramic Floor


Diagnostic procedures by means of immunofluorescence techniques have been greatly used in investigations of some diseases which have immunologic background. These tests are now accepted as routine diagnostic procedures in dermatology in advanced countries beside electron microscopy. The main purpose of this paper is to summarize intelligibly immunofluorescence results obtained so far in various skin disorders. The methods of application can be divided into direct and indirect method. The basic principle, technical procedures, some problems and application of immunofluorescence on various skin diseases are discussed. Key Words: immunofluorescence techniques - direct and indirect immunofluorescence -- antigen-antibody tracing - immunologic skin diseases - dermatoses


A software birthmark is a set of characteristics extracted from an executable program. Software birthmark techniques are used to detect program theft by determining the similarity between two different programs. In this paper, we propose a software birthmark based on a graph-based structure comparison scheme. By enhancing the function level comparison and the basic block level comparison algorithms, we show that software birthmarks can have improved resilience compared to those of the original graph-based structure comparison scheme.


Partial table of contents: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES Maximizing Returns Through Successful Project Management (S. Huismann) Negotiating for Value (R. Barbour & J. Smith) Saving Time and Money by Working with Regulators (N. Shilts) Dealing with the Public: Five Steps for Avoiding Costs (B. Dillon) OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES Avoiding the Costs of Violating Transportation Rules (B. Stillings) Using Facility Self-Assessments to Manage Risks, Set Priorities, and Control Costs (J. Thurman, et al.) ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE PROGRAMS Assessing Environmental Health and Safety for Savings and to Improve Productivity (S. Sleeman) Eight Keys for Cost-Effective Air Compliance and Emissions Control (R. Erbes) Bottom Line Impacts from Reducing Solid Waste at the Source (K. O'Donnell) Index.


Nowadays, metaheuristic optimization algorithms are used to find the global optima in difficult search spaces. Pontogammarus Maeoticus Swarm Optimization (PMSO) is a metaheuristic algorithm imitating aquatic nature and foraging behavior. Pontogammarus Maeoticus, also called Gammarus in short, is a tiny creature found mostly in coast of Caspian Sea in Iran. In this algorithm, global optima is modeled as sea edge (coast) to which Gammarus creatures are willing to move in order to rest from sea waves and forage in sand. Sea waves satisfy exploration and foraging models exploitation. The strength of sea wave is determined according to distance of Gammarus from sea edge. The angles of waves applied on several particles are set randomly helping algorithm not be stuck in local bests. Meanwhile, the neighborhood of particles change adaptively resulting in more efficient progress in searching. The proposed algorithm, although is applicable on any optimization problem, is experimented for partially shaded solar PV array. Experiments on CEC05 benchmarks, as well as solar PV array, show the effectiveness of this optimization algorithm.


Complement dysregulation has been documented in adults with COVID-19 and implicated in relevant pediatric inflammatory responses against SARS-CoV-2. We propose that signatures of complement missense coding SNPs associated with dysregulation could also be identified in children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C). We investigated 71 pediatric patients with RT-PCR validated SARS-CoV-2 hospitalized in pediatric COVID-19 care units (November 2020–March 2021) in three major groups. Seven (7) patients suffered from MIS-C (MIS-C group), 32 suffered from COVID-19 and were hospitalized (admitted group), whereas 32 suffered from COVID-19, but were sent home. All patients survived and were genotyped for variations in the C3, C5, CFB, CFD, CFH, CFHR1, CFI, CD46, CD55, MASP1, MASP2, MBL2, COLEC11, FCN1, and FCN3 genes. Upon evaluation of the missense coding SNP distribution patterns along the three study groups, we noticed similarities, but also considerably increased frequencies of the alternative pathway (AP) associated with SNPs rs12614 CFB, rs1061170, and rs1065489 CFH in the MIS-C patients. Our analysis suggests that the corresponding substitutions potentially reduce the C3b-inactivation efficiency and promote slower and weaker AP C3bBb pre-convertase assembly on virions. Under these circumstances, the complement AP opsonization capacity may be impaired, leading to compromised immune clearance and systemic inflammation in the MIS-C syndrome.


Hyperfine interactions couple an electron spin nondestructively to quantum dot nuclear spins Quantum information (QI) has become a focus of research during the past two decades, with the goal of exploiting the potentialities offered by superposition and entanglement of quantum states (1). The first hardware implementations of QI relied on quantum systems hosting clean, well-isolated two-level systems such as atoms or ions. Despite the success of these systems, solid-state QI implementations promise robustness, miniaturization, established fabrication tools, scalability to large numbers of involved components, and easy connectivity to classical hardware. However, a major challenge is that the interaction of quantum states with the many-body environment in a crystal can compromise QI. In semiconductor nanostructures, the lattice nuclei offer sufficiently long QI storage times, but a truly coherent interface, which is needed to store QI faithfully in an ensemble of nuclear spins, has remained elusive. On page 62 of this issue, Gangloff et al. (2) report the realization of this goal for an electron with the nuclei in a quantum dot, which they achieved by exploiting hyperfine interactions.


A total of 230 healthy women attending family planning clinics took part in a cross‐sectional study, comparing contraceptive histories and serum prolactin levels. It was found that the distribution histogram of serum prolactin was markedly skewed to the right in all main groups, but that the distribution profile was not affected by use of oestrogen‐containing contraceptives. Neither the dose of oestrogens nor duration of their use affected prolactin levels. We have thus found that currently available combined oral contraceptive agents have no effect on serum prolactin. Analysis of the skewed raw data yields a 'normal' range of 110‐700 mU/I, higher than that usually accepted.


The breaking bahaviour under a static three-point bending test on perforated notched specimens both of flake and nodular graphite cast irons have been studied. The results obtained are summarized as follows: (1) When the position of the perforation is suitable, the load carrying capacity and the absorbed energy increase, compared with non-perforated notched test pieces; (2) These improvements mentioned above are due to the passing length of the crack.


This dataset represents a registry of species that are not native but recorded to live in the wild of at least one of the four countries that comprise the Two Seas Area, i.e. Great Britain, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. For each of the 6,661 species, subspecies and hybrids listed, we provide detailed information on its status in each country, taxonomic affiliation and environment inhabited. The data were collected by review of 36 web- and print-based sources over an eight-month period. Further systematic scanning of three of the most relevant scientific journals, i.e. Neobiota, Aquatic Invasions and BioInvasions Records, recovered 19 additional relevant publications from which information was included in the registry. As a result, the registry will serve as a basis for developing effective, cross-boundary strategies to manage and control non-native species, which can have severe ecological and economic impacts. The registry can fur ther be used as a general reference for both scientists and practitioners, as well as a tool to assess reliability and comprehensiveness of other well-known databases such as the DAISIE portal.


Rough sets, introduced by Zdzisaw Pawlak [1], play a crucial role in the development of Granular Computing (GrC) [2–4]. The extension of GrC to Interactive Granular Computing (IGrC) (initiated by Skowron and co-workers [5–7]5), requires generalization of the basic concepts of rough sets and GrC. For instance, it is needed to shift from granules to complex granules (including both physical and abstract parts), information (decision) systems to interactive information (decision) systems as well as methods of inducing hierarchical structures of information (decision) systems to methods of inducing hierarchical structures of interactive information (decision) systems. IGrC takes into account the granularity of information as used by humans in problem solving, as well as interactions with (and within) the real physical world. The computations in this IGrC model are realized on the interactive complex granules and that must be based on the consequences of the interactions occurring in the physical world. It is worthwhile to cite here the following opinion [8]:


The metric and meristic characters of Drepane punctata from Versova Fish Landing Centre of Bombay have been studied. The meristic characters showed considerable variations. The number of dorsal fin rays were relatively stable characters. Statistical interpretation of metric data indicated that there is a direct relationship between the preanal, predorsal in relation to total length and eye-diameter in relation to head length.


Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), which structurally belongs to the FGF superfamily, acts as an endocrine factor and plays important roles in the regulation of energy homeostasis, glucose and lipid metabolism. The therapeutic administration of FGF21 analogs improves nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, the severe stage of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes. In the present study, we screened crude extracts from 88 herbal drugs frequently used in Kampo prescriptions as potential anti-obesity agents by monitoring the production of FGF21 in C2C12 myotubes. Among these extracts screened, we found that 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid, an active constituent isolated from the fruits of Forsythia suspensa, stimulated FGF21 production in C2C12 myotubes. Additionally, significant increases in CRE-dependent luciferase activity were observed in cells overexpressing bile acid receptor TGR5 in response to 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid treatment, which indicated that the responses caused by 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid was dependent on TGR5 activation. We observed that the phosphorylation of p38 was increased by 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid rapidly in C2C12 myotubes. Pretreatment with the selective p38 inhibitor SB203580 also significantly repressed the stimulatory effect of 3- O-acetyloleanolic acid on FGF21 secretion. These findings collectively indicated that TGR5 receptor signaling up-regulates FGF21 expression via p38 activation.


Two physicochemical properties of DME-Diesel mixture fuel——stability and viscosity,which influence the performance of engine,are studied in the paper.By test and study on these physicochemical properties of mixture fuel such as intersolubility and viscosity,some conclusions are made:the DME-Diesel mixture fuel not only is uniform and stable,but also can made the viscosity of mixture fuel increased effectively,the abrasion of fine couplings reduced and the reliability of engine operation improved.


Terrestrial laser scanning typically requires the use of artificial targets for registration and georeferencing the data. This equipment can be burdensome to transport and set up, representing expense in both time and labor. Environmental factors such as terrain can sometimes make target placement dangerous or impossible, or lead to weak network geometry and therefore degraded product accuracy. The use of additional sensors can help reduce the required number of artificial targets and, in some cases, eliminate the need for them altogether. The research presented here extends methods for direct georeferencing of terrestrial laser scanner data using a dual GNSS antenna apparatus with additional photogrammetric observations from a scanner-mounted camera. Novel combinations of observations and processing methods were tested on data collected at two disparate sites in order to find the best method in terms of processing efficiency and product quality. In addition, a general model for the scanner and auxiliary data is given which can be used for least-squares adjustment and uncertainty estimation in similar systems with varied and diverse configurations. We found that the dual-antenna system resulted in cm-level accuracy practical for many applications and superior to conventional one-antenna systems, and that auxiliary photogrammetric observation significantly increased accuracy of the dual-antenna solution.


© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2021. No commercial reuse. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ. DESCRIPTION Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in children is primarily managed surgically with adenotonsillectomy and/or with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Adherence to CPAP in children is generally poor due to discomfort, inconvenience or cognitive delay. The hypoglossal nerve stimulator (HNS) is a novel device that has gained popularity in treating adults with severe refractory OSA. HNS works by delivering stimulation to upper airway muscles, stiffening the tongue and soft tissues to improve breathing during sleep. HNS is better tolerated and less irritating than CPAP, with good longterm efficacy. Recently, HNS has been trialled in children with refractory OSA with positive outcomes. 2 A child with Down syndrome and severe refractory OSA (Apnoea–Hypopnoea Index, or AHI, of 45 after adenotonsillectomy) with CPAP noncompliance presented for HNS implantation. After routine mask induction and intravenous placement, oxymetazoline was sprayed in each nostril. He was nasotracheally intubated via direct laryngoscopy with a 6.5 mm nasal RingAdairElwyn (RAE tube, with the neck maintained in neutral position. No muscle relaxants were administered due to the need for intraoperative nerve monitoring. The operating room bed was rotated 90 degrees and a shoulder roll was placed. Electrodes were placed in the genioglossus and styloglossus muscles by the surgeon for nerve monitoring. Surgical dissection was performed through a submandibular incision, isolating the hypoglossal nerve (figure 1), and the stimulating electrode was inserted. A pleural respiration sensor was placed through a second incision in the right lower chest with dissection down to the fourth intercostal space (figure 2). Hypoglossal electrode and respiration sensor leads were connected to an implantable pulse generator in the right subclavicular space. The patient received a total of 25 mL/kg crystalloid, 1 mcg/kg fentanyl and 0.01 mg/kg hydromorphone throughout the 5hour case. He was extubated awake at the end of surgery and weaned to room air in the recovery room. He was admitted overnight for observation and discharged home without any complications or additional interventions. Further recovery at home was uneventful, and during outpatient followup, the patient had subjective improvement in his symptoms, as well as a decrease in his AHI to 12. He has been compliant with the device, using the implant approximately 70 hours per week. As a result of technological advancements, HNS has been introduced as a novel technique to manage severe refractory OSA. Due to its success in adults, HNS is now being extended to the paediatric population with persistent severe OSA after adenotonsillectomy or with poor CPAP compliance. Down syndrome is a common genetic disorder in which severe OSA often exists (prevalence of 55%–80%) due to hallmark anatomical features. 3 Adenotonsillectomy only resolves OSA in 16%–33% of patients with Down syndrome. Additionally, intellectual disability associated with Down syndrome leads to Figure 1 Hypoglossal nerve isolation in a child with severe refractory obstructive sleep apnoea.


Finding of Uterine Low-Density Center on CT in Asymptomatic Post Menopausal Women: When is Ultrasound Necessary?
To evaluate the significance of a low density center detected incidentally on CT in postmenopausal women and establish a cut-off value for endometrial thickness on CT as a predictor of an abnormal endometrium using ultrasound as the reference standard.


The ratio of the radiated energy in two wavelength bands received from a hot body is a measure of the body's surface temperature. As only a ratio is involved the measurement is independent of the emissivity of the body if this does not vary with wavelength over the used range, the distance of the body from the source, time of exposure, etc. The pyrometer described employs the above principle, a PbS photoconductive cell being used for radiation detection. Temperatures down to 200° C may be measured with adequate accuracy.


We previously developed a method for high frame rate echocardiography [frame rate (FR) > 300 Hz] using a transmit beam, which was spherically diverging from a virtual point source behind the array. Although such diverging beam illuminates a wider area compared with a focused beam or plane wave, sound pressure starts to decrease just after emission. Another type of a diverging beam, which is diverging from a focal point of a conventional focused beam, has already been proposed for synthetic aperture imaging. This type of beam can increase sound pressure around the focal point, and it would be useful for applications which require higher sound pressure, such as blood flow imaging. In the present study, the feasibility of high frame rate echocardiography using diverging beams from conventional focused beams was examined. In the present study, multiple focused receiving beams were created using diverging beams in front of focal points of conventional focused transmit beams. Smaller focal distance achieves a wider diverging angle and the number of transmissions can be reduced. In the proposed method, wave fronts were assumed to be spherical, and dynamic focusing was used in receive. Since multiple receiving beams were created for each transmission, overlapping receiving beams were averaged after beamforming. The proposed method was evaluated using an ultrasound imaging phantom. Spatial resolutions (width at half maximum) of parallel beamforming with plane wave and diverging beams from virtual point sources at distances of 100 mm behind array and 20 mm in front of array were 1.17, 1.04, and 1.08 mm (at 44 mm depth), respectively. B-mode images could be obtained with good spatial resolutions using transmit beams diverging in front of focal points.


Background. Anemia is one of the common health problems globally, where a condition of red blood cells is inadequate to meet the physiological needs caused by iron deficiency. The short term impact of anemia on adolescents can cause growth disorders, while the long term impact on pregnant women can cause pregnancy and childbirth complications. Date fruit is one of the fruits that containing iron (Fe), vitamin C, vitamin B complex, and folic acid that can help form red blood cells. Consuming the date fruits may improve formation of red blood cells and prevent anemia. Objective. To determine the effect of the intervention of date fruits in increasing hemoglobin levels among female adolescents at Islamic boarding school. Method. This research was performed using a pre-experimental study with one group pretest and posttest design. The sampling method in this research used purposive sampling with samples of 30 female adolescent students aged 15–18 years old at Modern Islamic Boarding School (Pondok Modern Gontor Putri 2), Ngawi, East Java, Indonesia. The inclusion criteria was adolescent suffering from anemia (age 15 until 18 years, Hb <12 g/dL, not menstruation during intervention). The intervention was carried out for seven days by giving seven date fruits (50 g) per day. Hemoglobin levels had recorded before and after intervention. The data were analyzed using paired t-test. Results. The median hemoglobin (Hb) level before giving date fruits was 10.8 g/dL and the median Hb level after giving date fruits was 11.9 g/dL. There were differences in Hb levels before and after giving date fruit in the treatment group (p=0.001). Conclusion. The intervention of consuming seven date fruits (50 g) for seven days effectively increased hemoglobin level.


The strength and reliability of fiber-reinforced ceramic-matrix composites (CMCs) are dependent on whether conditions of local or global load sharing prevail. Global load sharing is promoted by a low interfacial sliding stress and is manifested in a zero-tangent modulus at the point of tensile failure along with random fiber failures and extensive fiber pullout. In this paper, it is demonstrated that conditions of global load sharing are not present in two commonly studied CMCs, despite the fibrous appearance of their fracture surfaces. This behavior is manifested in a volume-dependent strength, as evidenced by strength differences measured in tension and flexure (accounting for the nonlinear stress distribution in flexure). Methods of weakest-link statistics are used to relate the strengths measured in the two test configurations. Estimates for the Weibull moduli of the two systems are obtained from the experiments and compared with values obtained through Monte Carlo simulations based on a three-dimensional-lattice Greens function method. The implications of these results on the strength of large components and of small regions of high stress concentration are discussed briefly.


The aim of the present article is to discuss the application of bone lid technique using piezoelectric device as an atraumatic surgical option when facing a deeply impacted tooth in order to optimize implant rehabilitation in the ideal position. The following article sheds light on the steps of the surgical bone lid technique using piezoelectric device and discusses its outcomes in limiting the post - operative bone resorption and enhancing implant placement through a peer literature review and a case report.


A when adding another when not adding devices and another device, SP establishes a trust relationship for any IDP, the user can reliably obtain desired services at the time of the login technique It is provided. The invention relates to a method of establishing trust of identity management, it has published identity provider and service provider. The method, after the service provider has received the access from the user, a step (S102) the identity provider to which the user belongs is determined whether located within the trust domain of the service provider, the identity provider to which the user belongs If not located in the service provider trust domain, the service provider and the step (S104) for inquiring the identity provider that the user belongs to the identity provider in the local trust domain, identity provider in the local trust domain replies, the user If There received information service provider the identity provider belongs, in order to establish the reliability of the identity provider to which the user belongs And a step (S106) of adding the identity provider that the user belongs to a temporary trust list. .FIELD 1


Lympho proliferative lesions are the most common primary orbital malignancies. Primary lymphoma of the orbit and ocular adnexa accounts for 59 years [4]. Orbital Lymphoma (OL) commonly presents with proptosis and is typically a painless, progressive orbital lesion; however, the conjunctival lesions appear clinically as fleshy salmon patch lesions [5,6]. The treatment options are surgical excision, chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy (RT), or combination of chemoradiation. Radiation therapy alone is the most effective treatment modality for the orbital lymphoma with excellent local tumor control [7-12]. The local and systemic relapse rate was reported to be less after treatment of OL by RT due to the indolent nature of the MALT variants. Different radiation techniques and doses (with or without adjuvant chemotherapy) were used by the several authors depending on the extent of the disease and severity. Kennerdell et al. reported 100% complete response of the lymphoid lesions of the orbit and ocular adnexa with low-dose RT (24-25.5 Gy) with very few acute and chronic side effects [8]. Several authors advocated 30-40 Gy for low to intermediate grade lymphomas with good local control and better 5 year survival. In a retrospective chart review of 31 cases of orbital MALT lymphoma, Le et al. observed a complete local control of the tumor with an overall 10 year survival of 73%. However, they did not find a significant difference in the outcomes among patients treated with RT dose of ≤ 30 Gy versus the >30 Gy and recommended that RT dose of 30-30.6 Gy provides excellent local control of tumor with minimal long-term side effects [9]. Galieni et al. observed complete response to the radiotherapy in seven patients of low-grade MALT lymphoma treated with RT dose of 36-40 Gy over a median follow-up of 51 months. However, among the patients treated with chemotherapy, local relapse was observed in 3/15, which resolved completely to the local irradiation [13]. In a multi-institutional, retrospective study by Uno et al. complete tumor response was seen in 26 patients (mean RT dose 36 Gy) and partial response in 20 others (mean RT dose 37.5 Gy) [11]. The local tumor recurrence was noted in 6 of the patients with partial or no response. They concluded that the age ( 60 years), gender, location (conjunctiva versus others), laterality (unilateral versus bilateral) or the dose of radiation therapy (≤ 30 Gy versus >30 Gy) did not contribute to the local tumor recurrence and felt the initial tumor response to RT influenced the probability of local recurrence. The overall 5-year survival rate for all the patients was 91% with a median follow-up of 46 months. Fung et al. noted 4 cases with local recurrence of the 98 cases of MALT lymphoma. Three of the 4 had stage I disease (primary orbital tumor treated with RT dose of 30 Gy) [7]. The systemic relapse-free survival rate among the stage I MALT lymphoma patients which comprise major group in their study was 75% at 5 years and the overall 5-year survival rate was 95%. However for the stage III-IV MALT lymphoma in the same study the 5 year disease specific survival rate was 49% and the overall survival rate was 39%. To summarize, excellent local tumor control rates were observed with radiation therapy with doses 2430 Gy in most studies.


The objective of this study was to examine the cross‐sectional relationship between the expression of norepinephrine transporter (NET), the protein responsible for neuronal uptake‐1, and indices of glycaemia and hyperinsulinaemia, in overweight and obese individuals.


We classify potential cosmic strings according to the topological charge measurable outside the string core. We conjecture that in string theory it is this charge that governs the stability of long strings. This would imply that the SO(32) heterotic string can have endpoints, but not the E8 × E8 heterotic string. We give various arguments in support of this conclusion. 1 Stability of cosmic strings Compactifications of string theory give rise to many potential cosmic strings, including the fundamental strings themselves, D-strings and wrapped D-branes, solitonic strings and branes in ten dimensions, and magnetic and electric flux tubes in the four-dimensional effective theory. The small value of the cosmological constant suggests that the compactified dimensions in our vacuum have great topological complexity [1]; consequently there may be of order 10 cosmic string candidates, plus the bound states of these! However, the only strings that are cosmologically relevant are those those actually produced, and moreover it is necessary that some take the form of infinite random walks in order to seed the later string network [2]. Thus it is the much smaller number of phase breaking transitions after inflation that is relevant. Even if some infinite strings are produced, there is the possibility that they will decay too soon to be observed [3, 4]. In this paper we consider the stability of long strings. We propose a topological classification, based on the topological charge observable outside the string core, and we conjecture that all decays allowed by this classification actually occur in string theory. The rate might be slow on cosmological time scales; we are concerned here only with absolute stability. We distinguish four kinds of macroscopic string, in three noncompact spatial dimensions: • Local strings have no topological charge that can be detected by any measurement outside the core of the string. • Global strings have a topological charge that is visible in local measurements, the gradient of a scalar field that winds around the string. • Aharonov-Bohm strings [5] have no topological charge that can be detected by local measurements, but have an Aharonov-Bohm phase with respect to at least one particle that is neutral under all massless low energy gauge groups. • Quasi-Aharonov-Bohm strings have an Aharonov-Bohm phase, but only with respect to particles that are charged under the low energy gauge group. Note that this classification is along a different axis from the list in the first paragraph above, and applies to all strings in that list; it is independent of their internal structure. In particular the earlier description changes under duality, and in the middle of moduli space the distinctions disappear, while the topological classification is duality-invariant. The topological classification, which is a refinement of earlier discussions, determines the potential instabilities of the string:


Introduction: Our study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of different voxel sizes for cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) when detecting strip perforations of variable sizes. We used 0.2 and 0.3 mm3 voxel for detecting root strip perforations. Methods and Materials: This was an in vitro study conducted on 155 extracted humans' mandibular first molars. The teeth were randomly divided into five groups (n=31). Perforation were not induced in the control group. In the remaining four groups, strip perforations of 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 mm diameters were created in the mesiolingual canal using #3 Gates Glidden drills. The CBCT scans were taken first with a 12×9 cm field of view (FOV), 90 kVp, 4 mA, and 0.2 mm3 voxel size for 24 sec and then with a 12×9 cm FOV, 90 kVp, 2 mA, and 0.3 mm3 voxel size for another 24 sec. Two observers evaluated the images and reported the largest diameter of perforations. The results were compared with the gold standard values (determined by an electronic digital caliper) using statistical methods, including the kappa coefficient and generalized estimating equation (P<0.05). Results: Based on the findings of our study, the inter-observer agreement ranged from 58-100%, while the intra-observer agreement was reported to be around 100%. The difference in accuracy between 0.2 and 0.3 mm3 voxel sizes was not statistically significant (P>0.05). In addition, the accuracy of detecting different perforation sizes in the CBCT did not follow a specific pattern. Conclusion: This in vitro study showed that CBCT is a reliable diagnostic tool, and even in lower dosages of 0.3 mm3 voxel size, image resolution and diagnostic accuracy was not affected. Moreover, smaller root perforations could be detected as accurately as larger ones with CBCT.


Because of the slow progress being made in the national geologic repository program, the idea of partitioning and transmuting (P-T) long-lived radionuclides resurfaces as a potential improvement in high-level radioactive waste management. It seems theoretically possible to reduce the overall problems of radioactive waste by repeatedly partitioning and recycling wastes into actinide-free wastes, but there are recognizable difficulties and negative consequences that may overshadow the long-term benefits. This paper addresses some of the criteria that might be used to achieve an optimal P-T concept development, i.e., to minimize the negative short-term impact and to maximize both short-term and long-term benefits.


When applying traditional classifiers to imbalanced dataset, the result might be bias towards the majority class, which leads to poor performance of classifiers. Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique(SMOTE) is a popular algorithm to improve the classifier's performance through generating new minority samples and making dataset balanced. Based on SMOTE, two new over-sampling algorithms DSMOTE and ESMOTE are proposed in this paper. Being different with SMOTE which treats all minority samples equally, the two new over-sampling algorithms mainly synthesize new samples near the easily misclassified samples to improve the classification accuracy of minority class. Experiments show that DSMOTE and ESMOTE could both get better performance than SMOTE.


The invention relates to a deployable device to allow access to a vehicle, said vehicle having a housing (3) storage of the device extending to below a threshold of access (2) to the vehicle and having a window (4) allowing the deployment of the device, said device comprising: - a ramp (5) movable in translation along an axis a between a stowed position in the housing and a deployed position; and - a flap (8) rotatable about an axis B between a protection position in which it closes the window (4) of the housing (3) and a deployed position in which it forms an inclined plane between the ramp (5) and the access threshold (2). The invention also relates to an access platform to a vehicle.


In terms of the "theory" of sound,we should return,as much as we can,to the starting point of pure sound as an ethnomusicological strategy.That is the way of removing the "intellectual cover"(researcher's cultural lens or ideology) enshrouding the sound.We try our best to do so,hoping for an ideal "deconstruction," i.e.while facing the "liminal" sound fact,only with a repeated roundabout route for our stance,identity and position in the field,and by experiencing sound "fact," can we "reconstruct" a music connected to human and culture.


Noise estimation does not receive much attention in remote sensing society. It may be because normally noise is not large enough to impair image analysis result. Noise estimation is also very challenging due to the randomness nature of the noise (for random noise) and the difficulty of separating the noise component from the signal in each specific location. We review and propose seven different types of methods to estimate noise variance and noise covariance matrix in a remotely sensed image. In the experiment, it is demonstrated that a good noise estimate can improve the performance of an algorithm via noise whitening if this algorithm assumes white noise.


Ectoparasitism is the most devastating parasitic condition of poultry after coccidiosis. The present study was conducted to identify the risk factors associated with avian ectoparasitism in Osun State, Nigeria. Data was obtained from avian species presented at the major Veterinary Hospitals in Osun State between January 2006 and December 2015. A total of 4,584 avian species were presented in the period under review. Of the presented birds, 2,665 (58.14%) were young, while 1,919 (41.86%) were adults. One thousand nine hundred and ninety four (43.50%) were male and 2,590 (56.50%) were female. More birds (2,868, 62.57%) were presented during the wet season compared to the dry season (1,716, 37.43%). Turkeys 2,088 (45.55%) were the most frequently presented bird type, followed by layers 1,476 (32.20%) and local chickens 1,020 (22.25%). A total of 324 (7.07%) avian species were diagnosed for ectoparasitic infestations, of which lice infestation was the most prevalent (216, 4.71%) followed by flea infestation (72, 1.57%), tick infestation (24, 0.52%) and mite infestation (12, 0.26%). There was no defined pattern in the yearly and monthly prevalence of ectoparasite infestations. Age, sex, seasons and species were significantly associated (P<0.05) with the prevalence of ectoparasitic infestations. The study showed a low prevalence of ectoparasite infestations among avian species in the study area; however strategic measures should be taken to control these ectoparasites in Osun State, Nigeria, so as to maximize productivity in the poultry sector.


We report on numerical and experimental results showing the influence of cups curvature of hypocycloid-core Kagome HC-PCF on the confinement loss. Fabricated fibers with circular cups demonstrate record loss-level of 40 dB/km at 1064 nm.


A nationally standardized dropout definition will be of little praztical value unless it can be related to the structure, practices, and processes of a given school. A proposed measure of school completion and school leaving called the High School Holding Power Index is described. The index is built on these assumptions: (1) there is a relationship etween what goes on at school and the dropout rate; (2) conditions beyond the control of the school contribute to some dropout decisions; (3) the graduating class cohort is the appropriate unit of analysis; (4) high school is defined as grades nine through 12; (5) the appropriate period for measurement is the high school years; (6) a dropout is a ctudent who cannot be accounted for in any legitimate way when the class reaches the end of 12th grade; and (7) holding power is the percentage of students in each graduating class cohort who graduate or are still enrolled when the cohort finishes grade 12. The index equals (on-time graduates plus early graduates plus chose otill enrolled) divided by (the origiaal ninth-grade class plus "transfer ins" minus "transfer outs" plus the institutionalized plus the jai:l.ed plus the deceased). Thif,' index offers a way to measure the breadth and depth of the dropout phenomenon. The studies, involving over 31,000 students, that resulted in the development of the index are described. Thern is a 56-item list of references. (SLD) *********************************************************************** Reprolucions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. *********************************************************************** U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION ()lice of Educational Research and Improvement EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC) Er i iV TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)." CALCULATING DROPOUT RATES LOCALLY AND NATIONALLY WITH THE HOLDING POWER INDEX


This work demonstrates the effects of the active use of renewable energy sources (RES) in the unified energy system (UES) of Ukraine, in particular, maintaining the balance in the network for its reliable and high-quality operation. In the energy strategy for the development of renewable energy sources in Ukraine until 2035, a rapid increase of the installed RES capacity is planned, i.e. the task of maintaining balance sheet reliability in the conditions of an increase in the share of RES in the UES of Ukraine is quite urgent. Forecasting of the electricity balance is based on the generation forecast, electricity consumption in a given period of time, as well as fuel reserves and the volume of generating capacity reserves. Renewable energy sources have a non-uniform nature of generation, and therefore endanger aspects of balance reliability. This problem is key for Ukraine in light of the integration of Ukraine's energy system into the European ENTSO-E network. As a result of the conducted research, it can be stated that the improvement of the situation is possible only with an integrated approach and the implementation of appropriate technologies, namely: technical, economic and institutional technologies. The introduction of technologies will make it possible to improve monitoring and management of energy systems; economic implementations will contribute to the reform of retail pricing and taxation of electricity supplies, taking into account the payment they supply for electricity and covering part of the cost of the general infrastructure; institutional innovations will change the functions and responsibilities of management subjects. Improving coordination between transmission and distribution network operators will become a priority.


Background: Esophageal varices (EVs) are atypically dilated submucosal veins, which occurs consequently to portal hypertension. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM), obtained by transient elastography (Fibroscan), strongly correlates with portal hypertension.
Aim: Is to predict the presence and grading of esophageal varices in Egyptian patients with liver cirrhosis using Fibroscan and other noninvasive tests.
Methods: A 101 cirrhotic patients indicated for upper endoscopy were enrolled consecutively and subdivided according to endoscopic findings into: Group I (70 patients with EVs) and Group II (31 patients without EVs). Upper endoscopy, ultrasonography, routine lab. and Fibroscan assessment were done to all patients.
Results: LSM correlated directly and significantly with the presence (p <0.001), and grading of EVs (p = 0.001). A LSM cut off value of 18.55 kPa had an AUC of 0.726, sensitivity of 74.3%, specificity of 54.8%, PPV of 78.79%, and a NPV of 48.57% for predicting the presence of EVs. Platelet count/spleen diameter ratio (PSR) inversely correlated with the EVs presence (p = 0.002), and grading (p <0.001). PSR had a cut off value of 742.17, an AUC of 0.695, sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 58.6% (PPV of 82%, NPV of 43.14%) for EVs presence. Right lobe diameter/Albumin ratio (RLAR) correlated directly with EVs presence (p = 0.001), and grading (p =0.012). RLAR cut off value of 3.62 had AUC, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 0.7, 64.3%, 67.7%, 81.8%, and 45.7%, respectively for the prediction of EVs presence.
Conclusion: LSM, PSR, RLAR as noninvasive methods for predicting the presence and grading of EVs are of moderate accuracy.


Although different on some measures, students in private two-year colleges often resemble their public-college counterparts, according to data from a series of comparative studies.


In this paper we describe our experiences with a new full-system simulator for the Power™ architecture that achieves a high-level of simulation performance through careful design and the application of dynamic binary translation. Our simulator is written entirely in Java and can run simple applications and also boot whole operating systems. We chose Java because it has a wide developer base, portability, support for modern programming features such as inheritance, ease of scripting, built in serialization, and a broad selection of robust developer tools. To improve simulation performance, we treat the byte code for our instruction interpreter as an intermediate representation to drive dynamic binary translation. When running as a pure instruction interpreter, the simulator can achieve simulation speeds of over 100 MIPS. For simple applications, dynamic binary translation can improve simulation performance by a factor of 2 or more, to over 200 MIPS. We continue to work on dynamic binary translation for booting a full operating system, and we are also exploring dynamic translation of Java byte code directly to host object code.


By using overlap extension PCR,a P137G site mutant named xylA137 was introduced in the xylose isomerase gene xylA from Thermus thermphilus.The recombinant plasmid XM204-XI137 containing P137G was expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae H158 to produce the H158-XI137 strain.The results of enzymatic activity show that H158-XI137 is twice of the contrast H158-XI at 30?℃. In addition,the range of optimum pH become broader,while the thermostability decreases obviously.The result indicates that the proline at the position 137 of the xylose isomerase is not only very important for the enzymatic activity,but essential for maintaining the thermostability.


Introduction The topical negative pressure therapy (TNP) is a non-invasive method to treat chronic and acute wounds locally, using a continuous or intermittent negative pressure. The objective of this study is to present the first experience of this type of treatment used in clinical cases in our department. By presenting these cases, we highlight indication and efficiency of this new technique applied in relatively complicated situations, at the same time it also allows a significant improvement in treating injuries and chronic wounds. Materials and methods In this study, we present the recent experience of the Department of Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery of the University Hospital Center of Avicenne in Rabat. This therapy was used for the first time this year (in 2014), in three young patients who presented with chronic wounds associated with local and general factors that are unfavorable for the healing process. Results In all three of our cases we obtained highly satisfactory clinical results. TNP allows wounds to bud in a shorter time, as well as a fast healing by second intention due to controlled wound healing or split-skin graft without using flaps. This enables to decrease the margin of error, the time and the number of dressing replacements, and to reduce the length of hospital stay. Conclusion This is an expensive and specific equipment. However, the cost-benefit ratio analysis shows that it is an essential method that should be part of our therapeutic strategies. Keywords : loss of substance, negative pressure, budding, healing.


The objective of this study was to compare the frequency of antimicrobial resistancemarkers of P. aeruginosa and E.coli isolates from effluent of sewage treatment plantsand clinical specimens over the same period in Jordan.


Social interaction between a robot and rats is important since the robot can generate reproducible social behaviors across trials. However, lacking internal state feedback from the rat makes current robot-rat interaction a very preliminary level comparing with rat-rat interaction. Previous biological studies showed that ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) emitted by a rat are expressions of its internal emotional states, which therefore can be used as part of feedback for a robot-rat interaction. The challenge is to accurately identify rat USVs in real-time from mix sounds generated by the robot in a noisy environment. To address these problems, we propose an SVM-based rat USVs identification method. This SVM method uses three types of features to represents the characteristics of mix sound and use these multidimensional features to identify rat USVs. Results show that our identification method has an accuracy of 84.29% with only 4.84% false-positive rate. Furthermore, we carefully design the filter window length with respect to sound chunk length and use only one microphone to record the mix sound. All of these efforts are to reduce the calculation time to realize real-time identification. Eventually, the identification process can be executed within 3. 5ms, which definitely meet the real-time demand. This research lays the foundation of the feedback based interaction between rat and robot, and also shows promise in the study of ethology and the interaction between robot and animals.


Chune Liu, Zhihong Yang , Jianguo Wu, Li Zhang, Sangmin Lee, Dong-Ju Shin, Melanie Tran, Li Wang 2, 3, 4* Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, and the Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269 Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516 Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520 School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China


Almost all work equipment or products that are used daily require maintenance. Maintenance or maintenance as a conception of all activities needed to maintain or maintain the quality of the facility/machine so that it can function properly as in its initial condition. Likewise, routine motorcycle maintenance is very important because it relates to comfort while riding and traffic safety. A survey of 15 students of the Kertajaya Tangerang Non-Formal Pasraman showed that they did not understand how to do motorcycle maintenance. Therefore, the PKM activity to introduce automatic motorcycle maintenance was welcomed. PKM activities are carried out through lecture, discussion, demonstration and practice methods so as to improve the understanding and skills of the participants. The material given includes the working principle of the main components and how to adjust them. Based on the questionnaires given before and after the training activities, it was found that there was an increase in understanding of 100% on the 10 treatment items. While on the introduction of the fault code and how to reset it, 67% of participants said they understood.


Emotional Intelligence (EI) has been identified as an important factor for corporate success. However, there are few empirical findings on the impact of Strategic EI per se. The ooverall objective of the study was to empirically examine the relationship between the Strategic EI and Transformational Leadership style of managers. Sixty four managers were selected from the banking industry in Czech Republic. Genos EI Inventory, and the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire – Form 5X-Short were employed as the major research instruments of the study. Descriptive and inferential analyses of survey data were conducted using SPSS software. Variations were observed among the components of Strategic EI between males, and females. Study concludes positive a relationship between Strategic EI of Czech managers and their transformational leadership style. Improving awareness and usage of EI, will contribute to facilitate career success through enhanced levels of transformational leadership of managers. Keywords—Strategic Emotional Intelligence, Transformational leadership, Socio-demographic factors.


In order to understand insights into human stance postural control mechanism, generation of biped stance motion in consideration of both muscles and neurological time delay is important. In this paper, we proposed a neural controller composed by feed-forward and feedback control to keep a musculoskeletal model with 70 muscles standing when neurological time delay is 100 ms. Through the optimization, we obtained the parameters of proposed controller able to keep musculoskeletal model standing.


A dog was brought with a history of chronic and excessive lacrimation with prominent tear streak mark and rust to brown color staining of facial hairs since last 8 months. Schirmer tear test was 26mm/min in left eye. Jones dye test revealed the blockage of left nasolacrimal duct. Dacryocystorhinography confirmed the location of the obstruction in the left nasolacrimal passage. Conjunctivoralostomy was performed and the animal had an uneventful recovery.


Y3(Ni0.sSi0.5)zSi2, orthorhombic, space group Immm, a = 3.9605 (5), b = 4.125 (1), c = 17.63 (1) A, Z = 2, D x = 4.72 Mg m -3, g(Mo Ka) = 34.54 mm -I. The crystal structure was determined by direct methods and refined to a conventional R factor of 0.088 for 186 observed reflections and 16 variables. The crystal structure is a ternary variant of the Ta3B4-type structure. The structure is characterized by double layers formed by face-sharing trigonal Y prisms. Prism centers are occupied by Ni and Si in a partially ordered arrangement. Introduction. Ternary systems with rare-earth metals (including Y and Sc), transition metals and semi-metals such as Si, Ge, A1, Ga have a large number of ternary phases. For example in the system Ce-Ni-Si 21 ternary phases have been reported by Bodak, Mis'kiv, Tyvanchuk, Kharchenko & Gladyshevskii (1973). The interpretation of these different structures is a challenging crystal-chemical problem which has been solved only partially. One prerequisite for any general systematic study is the precise knowledge of all compounds and their crystal structures. In the course of our systematic study of the structures of these ternary compounds we have synthesized the compound Y3NiSi3 the structure of which we want to report here. Experimental. Y3NiSi3 was prepared from elements of 99.99% purity by arc melting under purified Ar atmosphere. The ingot obtained was wrapped with Ta foil, sealed in an evacuated silica tube and subjected to annealing at 1173 K for a period of two weeks. Well developed single crystals of prismatic to tabular shape could be isolated from the crushed ingot. Preliminary X-ray investigations with Weissenberg and precession techniques showed orthorhombic symmetry. Systematic absences were observed for hkl, h + k + l ~ 2n indicating Immm, Imm2, I2~2~2~ or I222 as possible space groups. A small single crystal (40 x 60 x 50 p.m) was mounted on a computer-controlled four-circle diffractometer (Philips PW 1100, graphite-monochromated Mo Ka radiation). The lattice constants given in the Abstract were obtained from the 20 values of 32 reflections measured with Mo Ka~ radiation (20 > 46°). Intensity data were collected in one quadrant of 0567-7408/82/072026-03501.00 © 1982 International Union of Crystallography Y3(Nio.sSio.5)2Siz 2027 Table 1. Atomic positions and thermal parameters (x 102) for Y3(Nio.~Sio.~)2Si2 (space group Immm) The equivalent isotropic temperature factors are expressed as T = exp[-2zrEU(2 sin 0/2) z] and were obtained from U = ~(U~ + U~ + U33). E.s.d.'s are given in parentheses.


The aim of the presented paper was to demonstrate how we
propose to usediet research, inter alia, to help address some
specific historical questions with an emphasis on the Early
Byzantine Priniatikos Pyrgos.


The invention discloses a multi-wavelength emission Eu3+ uni-doped borate luminescent material and a preparing method thereof. The chemical constitution of the material is Ca4(1-x)LnO(BO3)3:xEu3+, wherein Ln is one or two of La3+,Y3+ and Gd3+, and 0.1%<=x<=2%. The material is prepared with a high-temperature solid-phase method. All reactants are weighed according to chemometry and evenly ground, presintering is conducted for 2-5 h at 700-1000 DEG C, then sintering is conducted for 3-7 h at 1100-1300 DEG C, and cooling is conducted to obtain the material. The material can emit light in three wave bands at the same time, namely green light (537 nm and 554 nm), yellow light (585 nm) and red light (610 nm and 623 nm), and the ratio of the three colors of light can be regulated by changing the doping ratio of Eu3+.


Abstract Industrial data were analysed to shed some light on the formation and growth of non-metallic inclusions during the ladle treatment of a particular grade of tool steel, Orvar Supreme (Fe-0·39C-1·0Si-0·4Mn- 5·2Cr-1·0Mo-0·9V). Seven types of inclusions were detected in samples taken along the processing evolution of the steel. The types of inclusions present were found to vary with the various stages of that evolution. While additions of aluminium to the steel bath were found to affect the composition of the inclusions, only a small number of pure alumina inclusions, agglomerated as clusters, were observed during the initial stages of deoxidation. Ladle glaze was found to be the major source of the inclusions. Most of those left in the steel before tapping were found to be of very small size and to contain high concentrations of Al2O3 and CaO and relatively minor ones of MgO and FeO.


Health and safety consideration, although serving an important role in any organizations, is often overlooked. Workplace accidents, associated injuries and illnesses are significantly underestimated, putting over 500 hundred permanent workers and thousands of contract workers in the horticultural research institutes at risk. Health and safety programs conformity with the set standards as measures in disaster risk reduction strategy in selected Kenya's horticultural research institutions has not been entirely understood and there is limited existing documented data in this area. The study adopted a descriptive research design. A sample of 167 staff was drawn using stratified random sampling from four horticultural research institutes in Kenya namely Kandara, Matuga, Tigoni and Kibos, comprising technical and non-technical staff. Data instruments were questionnaires, observation checklists and interview guides. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data. There was 60.4% compliance to the set standard in policy implementation guidelines. This is reflected in 46.5% of respondents who said safety audits are carried out in their institutions. Notwithstanding the high level of compliance to set requirements, there was low response to accidents and incidents by management. The study recommends full compliance with set requirements to enhance health and safety and safety audits be done independently.


Direct (personally involving) participation can be distinguished from indirect (through a representative) participation in terms of its overall value and the rationales for its use. The views of senior managers and shop stewards from 31 companies in the Glasgow area show some interesting similarities and differences.


An increased need for high-temperature piezoelectric materials for sensors, some of which must be Pb free due to RoHS regulations, has led to a focused search for suitable materials. Glass–ceramic processing—the controlled crystallization of a precursor glass—offers a unique manner in which to produce partially to wholly crystalline, Pb-free, and temperature-stable piezoelectric materials starting with optically homogeneous amorphous materials. Building on previously published work, we have produced NaNbO3-containing, poled, and pore-free ferroelectric glass–ceramics that exhibit d33 values of ∼15 pC/N, a dielectric constant of ∼200, an Np frequency constant of ∼3400 Hz·m, and Qm∼60. Nonferroelectric, lithium borosilicate polar glass–ceramics—initially developed by R.E. Newnham and coworkers at Penn State some 20 years ago—have also been produced and yielded d33 values of ∼5 pC/N, although with dielectric constants of <10 they achieved significant g33 values (∼50 × 10−3 V m/N; Np∼4500 Hz·m; Qm∼1500). Room-temperature planar coupling coefficients of 0.15 and 0.10 were obtained for the polar and ferroelectric varieties, respectively. High-temperature resonance measurements of both varieties reveal piezoelectricity to at least 600°C for the polar glass–ceramic and up to 300°C for the ferroelectric variety. Excessive conductivity in the polar type, presumably due to high lithium contents, resulted in a strong decrease in resonance amplitude as the temperature was increased. Interestingly, the estimated piezoelectric coefficients for this type showed nearly no temperature dependence and suggest that polar glass–ceramics, lacking a Curie temperature, potentially offer a unique route to high-temperature piezoelectrics.


The Phase Transfer catalysis theory is always applied to the organic synthesis. The Phase Transfer Catalysis technique is used for various phases reactions of Liquid-Liquid and solid-Liquid between inorganic salt and organism. The theory is expanded into solid-solid reaction between non-soluble salts for the first time. Through the technology, magnesium carbonate can be extracted from waste boron mud during borax production. It provides an economical and feasible pathway for use of waste boron mud.


Abstract PC Magazine UK and PC/Computing have pioneered the development of formal comparative usability testing, in response to the changing objectives and requirements of their readership. The comparative methodology is labs-based and follows a strict series of procedures during the design, implementation and analysis of tests. Carefully selected testers work with the products under review and subjective and objective measures are recorded, from which a comparison of all products can be derived. The end result of the comparative methodology is the ranking, or sorting, of products within the same category, in order of their usability. This information is presented to readers as a basis for product choice; and to vendors as a guide to the strengths and weaknesses of their product in relation to its competitors.


This research is intended to describe the implementation of science in fiqh learning for student activity, obstacles and solutions at MI Miftahul Falah Jakenan. In the implementation of this research apply descriptive type using qualitative methods. The data obtained with qualitative techniques are the results of observations and interviews. Based on the data that has been found, this research will complete the implementation of fiqh learning by implementing it scientifically for student activity which is already going quite well, where the teachers apply let's observe, ask, try, collect problems, associate, and communicate. Through the application of this scientific approach, it means that it can influence the development of students' skills including critical thinking, communication skills, and skills in working together and investigating. Obstacles found in the implementation of scientific learning are in the form of a lack of interest in students and a lack of utilization of existing facilities and infrastructure. The solution that can be done by the school is to seek educators to take part in training and teachers insert the use of learning media on certain materials.


The partial molar volumes of N2, O2, He, Ar, H2, CH4, C3H8, n-C4H10, i-C4H10, CCl2F2, and CClF3 were determined in water at 298.15 K and 303.15 K and 1.013 bar. The measurements were made using a vibrating tube densimeter.


** † ‡ § ** This paper describes work to develop practical, fast diagnostic techniques that can be used to monitor the proximity of a combustor to blowout using measurements of the flame's acoustic and ion signatures. A novel ignition system with ion sensing capability is used for blowout detection in conjunction with acoustic sensing. Data was acquired from a commercial single nozzle combustor fueled with Jet-A. As lean blowout is approached, short duration, localized extinction and re-ignition events were observed. Several signal processing schemes were developed to detect these blowout precursors, including signal thresholding and spectral analysis. The analyses revealed changes in the low frequency acoustic and ion spectra and increased presence of intermittent precursor events in both acoustic and ion data closer to blowout.


The efficiency of absorption of X-rays generated by a nuclear explosion at the surface of an asteroid, estimated earlier, is used to calculate the explosion yield needed to deflect the orbit of an asteroid. Following the work of Ahrens &38; Harris, it is shown that a recoil velocity of 1 cm s−1 is required to deflect an asteroid from a collision course with the Earth, and the necessary yield of explosion energy is estimated. If it is assumed that the scaling law between the energy and the diameter of the resulting crater, obtained from experiments carried out on the Earth, remains valid on the asteroid surface, where gravity is much weaker, an explosion energy of 8 and 800 megaton (Mton) equivalent of TNT would be required for asteroids of diameter 1 and 10 km respectively. If, on the other hand, the crater diameter is proportional to a certain power of the gravity g, the power being determined from a dimension analysis, 130 kton and 12 Mton would be required to endow asteroids of diameters 1 and 10 km with the required velocity, respectively. The result indicates that in order to estimate the required explosion energy, a better understanding of cratering under gravity much weaker than on the Earth would be required.


The system damping, the system frequency, the relative building response and the base rocking response peak amplitudes are studied, as those depend on the building mass and height, the flexibility of the soil, the structural damping, the type of incident waves and their angle of incidence. A linear two-dimensional model is used, which assumes the soil to be a homogeneous isotropic half-space, the foundation supporting the building to be a rigid embedded cylinder, and in which the building model is an equivalent single-degree-of-freedom oscillator. The system frequency and the system damping ratio are determined by measuring the width and the frequency of the peak in the transfer function of the oscillator relative response, using the analogy with the half-power method for a single-degree-of-freedom fixed-base oscillator. Previous similar studies are for dynamic soil-structure interaction only, and for simplified models in which the stiffness of the soil and the damping due to radiation are represented by springs and dashpots. The study in this paper differs from the previous studies in that the wave passage effects (or the kinematic interaction) are also included, and that no additional simplifications of the model are made. Results are shown for excitation by plane P- and SV-waves.


Aquaponics is a social technology that integrates raising fish in ponds with growing food without soil. This article aims to (i.) analyze the situation of aquaculture and its relationship with sustainability and food security, (ii.) rescue the historical foundations of chinampas and their relationship with aquaponics, (iii.) identify the relationships between agroecology and aquaponics, (iv.) review the concept of aquaponics and (v.) present the current scenario of aquaponics in Pernambuco. For that, a bibliographic and data survey was carried out, through the historical method, in order to find clues to a genealogy of aquaponics. Aquaponics shows a high degree of approximation with agroecology as it is a sustainable, resilient social technology with high replicability power. In addition, aquaponics is an integrative, transdisciplinary and holistic technique in essence. Currently, in Pernambuco, non-governmental organizations and research institutions are promoting the development of aquaponics in several territories of the state. Therefore, aquaponics shows a high degree of approximation with agroecology as it is a sustainable, resilient social technology with high replicability power. In addition, aquaponics is an integrative, transdisciplinary and holistic technique in essence.


Monocytes constitutively express Fc receptor (FcR) for IgG type I (CD64) and type II (CD32), but not type III (CD 16). Prior studies have indicated that in vitro culture of monocytes results in spontaneous induction of CD16, but this phenomenon has been variable and the mechanism unexplained. Here, we demonstrate that activated platelets are responsible for induction of CD16 on monocytes, as a consequence of TGF‐β release. Local release of TGF‐β by activated platelets at sites of tissue damage may induce CD16 on infiltrating or resident monocytes that in turn facilitate the function of these effector cells. The FcR on these CD16+ monocytes is functionally competent, and enables the monocytes to kill murine anti‐CD16 hybridoma cells. CD16 expressed on platelet‐activated monocytes is structurally similar to the transmembraneanchored CD16‐II polypeptide expressed on natural killer (NK) cells. However, whereas CD16‐II on NK cells is co‐associated with CD3ζ, we were unable to detect CD3 ζ transcript or protein in monocytes. Transcripts for the γ subunit of the high‐affinity IgE FcR (FcϵRI‐γ) were detected in monocytes, and presumably γ proteins are co‐associated with CD16‐II in these cells. Nucleotide sequence analysis of FcϵRI‐γ cDNA derived from both NK cells and cultured monocytes indicated identity with the structure previously cloned from basophils. Since CD16+ monocytes can kill anti‐CD16 hybridoma cell targets in the absence of CD3 ζ, these results indicate that CD3 ζ is not essential for signal transduction in CD16‐II‐mediated cytotoxicity.


This work provides the first records of Trichura dixanthia (Hampson, 1898) from Colombia and Venezuela, South America. Brief notes on collecting and the geog...


Among heavy industrial sectors worldwide, the steel industry ranks first in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Technologies that produce direct reduced iron (DRI) enable the industry to reduce emissions or even approach net‐zero CO2 emissions for steel production. Herein, comprehensive cradle‐to‐gate (CTG) life cycle analysis (LCA) and techno‐economic analysis (TEA) are used to evaluate the CO2 emissions of three DRI technologies. Compared to the baseline of blast furnace and basic oxygen furnace (BF–BOF) technology for steel making, using natural gas (NG) to produce DRI has the potential to reduce CTG CO2 emissions by 33%. When 83% or 100% renewable H2 is used for DRI production, DRI technologies can potentially reduce CO2 emissions by 57% and 67%, respectively, compared to baseline BF–BOF technology. However, the renewable H2 application for DRI increases the levelized cost of steel (LCOS). When renewable natural gas (RNG) and clean electricity are used for steel production, the CTG CO2 emissions of all the DRI technologies can potentially be reduced by more than 90% compared to the baseline BF–BOF technology, although the LCOS depends largely on the cost of RNG and clean electricity.


Rosetted peach trees were indexed for dark green sunken mottle virus (DGSMV). Although no cv. Pullars Cling trees and only 30% of trees of cv. Golden Queen were infected with DGSMV, all cv. Levis Cling trees tested were infected with it. Both Prunus necrotic ringspot (PRSV) and prune dwarf (PDV) viruses reduced shoot elongation in Elberta peach seedlings, but the viruses together reduced shoot elongation more than was expected from the effects of the viruses alone. A similar interaction occurred between mixed cultures of PRSV and PDV, that had passed through peach seed together, and an isolate of DGSMV from peach. PDV alone caused severe recurrent rosette and decline symptoms in cvv. Golden Queen, Levis Cling, and Pullars Cling, but had no significant effect on cv. Elberta.


The invention relates to a sensor unit Pressure (1), especially for automotive technology, comprising a housing (3) which is located a measuring cell PRESSURE (5). Such a cell is supplied with a pressure medium THROUGH an inlet (15) in the housing (3) having connection contacts (37) directed outwards. CELL pressure measurement (5) includes accommodation measuring cell (9) with a recess (17) in which is placed a pressure sensor (21), WHICH IS FILLED TO THE ADMISSION (29) BY PRESSURE transfer support (27) applied to the sensor (21). Provides a separation membrane (31) to separate the pressure medium transfer medium PRESSURE (27) and sealing the inlet (29), WHERE IS PLACED said membrane (31) to seal ADMISSION (29) between one or more EXTERIOR SURFACES accommodation (9) cELL MEASUREMENT AND INTERIOR SURFACES OF INTERACTION accommodation (3) OF THE SENSING PRESSURE (1) unit, and produce a tight closure of the inlet (29 ) of the measuring cell (5) through a sufficient pressure exerted between the outer and inner surfaces interacting with each other.