Friedrich Nietzsche, both through his use of it as an explanation for ressentiment as well as for cosmological, biological, and psychological phenomena. II While Arthur Schopenhauer had previously posited that humans aim primarily for self preservation, Nietzsche sought to correct his predecessor's views by stating that instead of a desire to maintain one's existence, humans (as well as all other life forms) seek to improve it. That is, Nietzsche viewed the Will to Power as a desire not simply to preserve a state of being; instead, he viewed it is a drive to extend one's power by "discharg[ing] strength." In fact, "as a fundamental instinct of life," the Will to Power "aims at the expansion of power and, wishing for that, frequently risks and even sacrifices self-preservation." Although there are many potential manifestations of this concept, this essay will focus on the psychological interpretation of the Will to Power and attempt to exactly asses the conditions and ends which satisfy its drive. Nietzsche's writing seems to indicate that the acquisition of dominion itself is what satisfies a will to power. That being said, power can only be procured effectively when certain conditions have been met, indicating that the validation of effectiveness must necessarily also compromise the Will to Power. This essay will contend that the acquisition of dominion is not enough to satisfy a


That financial subsides are distributed to the StatedOwned Enterprises(SOEs) is a phenomenon of financial soft budget constraint in economic reforming countries. The purpose of economic reform is to harden the constraint of SOEs, to improve their internal efficiencies and to make them share benefits equally. But in reality, reforming countries do not implement all the hardening measures that can play important role in transforming internal mechanism of SOEs. Even though the schools of property right and external environment have given some explanations on it, they do not shown why the governments are incompetent while they know the shortcomings of SOEs. In view of the above situation, this paper tries to solve the problems by a 3stage dynamic game model with complete information. The results show that whether the financial budget constraint is soft or not, the constraint is derived from the process and the competences of economic reforms. Therefore, we suggest that government should take financial measures in terms of SOEs' competences during different periods of SOEs' reform.


Studied the main problems in the relationship between small business and regional authorities. Place-organised community life is noted by the complicated combination of different scale enterprises. Such elements of the territorial community systems as small enterprises are especially important for regions. Various strategies show the ways of choosing regions with the best conditions for business dealing. There is the problem of uneven territorial framework of small enterprises support infrastructure, to solving of which the regional politics should be aimed. The attention in the state custom sector is paid to the question of the exception of giving the equal preferences for the small enterprises entities and socially aimed non-profit organisations. It is offered to include into goal programming the individual approach obliging customers to follow the Rosstat territorial bodies research on the allocation of small scale firms in accordance with their economic activities. It is concluded that in recent years the norm of quoting customs for small enterprises is obtained only on the level of municipal customs, but state customers ignore it without any objective reasons.


ABSTRACT In the real world, we introduce a dynamic model about the risky asset which is governed by Brownian motion, stationary compound Poisson process and its compensation process. By choosing Esscher transform parameters, we obtain a risk-neural measure Q under which the discounted value of the risky underlying asset is a martingale. Then, we give the pricing formulas of Exchange option by change of numeraire. At last, we analyze the option pricing formula and provide numerical illustrations by introducing BBY stock and SBUX stock.


Thermal issues are rapidly evolving in the field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and are being intensely studied as these issues appear to significantly affect the delay performance of FGPAs. A ring oscillator has been widely used as a digital temperature sensor to sense this thermal effect on FPGAs. The delay generated by the ring oscillator will vary depending on the temperature environment due to negative bias temperature instability, hot carrier injection and electromigration. It is therefore critical to adopt an accurate ring oscillator design to effectively measure the delay in FGPAs. In this study, a digital temperature sensor with a stable ring oscillator is proposed. Measurement periods of 512 and 4096 clock cycles have been implemented and the relationship between temperature, delay and total count has been established. The results show that as the temperature increases to 100°C, the delay decreases by 3.99 and 33.98% for 512 and 4096 clock cycles, respectively. It has been found that in order to reduce the degradation effect on the Virtex-6 FPGA, adopting a measurement period of 512 clock cycles is the best method. The measured data is successfully validated through a set of simulations. Thus, it may benefit a system designer and industrial player, especially in designing temperature-based FPGAs.


The possibility of direct release of immunoglobulin from the erythrocyte surfaces due to the break of the erythrocyte-immunoglobulin binding after the i.v. administration of L-asparaginase has been sh


The questions of corruption behavior in education of medical school and a way of their overcoming based on the analysis of literature and questioning of students of medical school are considered.


Studies of particles moving through a confined channel show stiffness, adhesion and friction also play a role.Studies of particles moving through a confined channel show stiffness, adhesion and friction also play a role.


Gawarecka Anna, Flâneur nadrzeczywistości. Vítězslava Nezvala surrealne wędrówki po Pradze (Flâneur of the Surreality. Vítězslav Nezval's Surreal Walks around Prague). "Poznańskie Studia Slawistyczne" 18. Poznań 2020. Publishing House of the Poznań Society for the Advancement of the Arts and Sciences, Adam Mickiewicz University, pp. 103–123. ISSN 2084-3011. In the surrealistic period of his literary work Vítězslav Nezval, following the French formula of presenting Paris as an archetypical modern city, published textual passage Pražský chodec (1938) which title is taken from the famous Apollinaire's story but its narrative schema resembles the Louis Aragon's Paris Peasant. In opposition to avant-garde ideas of the perfect urbanization projects connected with the technological progress and futurological utopias Nezval tries to show Prague (more mysterious and surreal in his eyes than the capital of France) as a space of living literary tradition, full of lieux de mémoire and traces of long past events. Walking around urban streets, alleys or bridges often regarded as the typical surrealistic activity, becomes here an instrument of evoking these memories and it is also treated as a metaphor of poetic creation.


The little Eastern Tailed Blue, Everes comyntas Godt. is perhaps one of the commonest and most widely spread lycaenids to be found in the United States. Because of this fact few collectors trouble themselves with additional specimens once the series in their collections is complete. With the exception of size and the shade of blue of the male, very little variation is to be noted in the specimens found during midsummer and later. Occasional mention, however, is made in the literature of the occurrence of females with some blue on the upper surface of the wings.


A plethora of obstacles impede on students' ability to successfully complete practical subjects in an undergraduate Financial Information Systems course (FIS), especially in a developing country such as South Africa. This is mainly attributed to four key encumbrances, namely the limited accessibility of computers on campus, the lack of software needed to complete assignments off campus, the limited availability of Internet access and bandwidth off campus, and its prohibitive cost to students. As the preponderance of these students are from previously disadvantaged communities and can merely not meet the expense of computers, Internet connections, and relatively costly commercial software, they are reliant on campus computer laboratories, whose access are not always practical due to time, distance, and location constraints. It could therefore be argued that current learning mechanisms to facilitate practical subjects in a FIS course do not comply with the demands faced by higher education (HE) institutions in developing countries. In order to ascertain the aforementioned, an action research study was conducted to investigate whether m-learning can serve as a paradigmatic mechanism to bridge existing learning gaps in practical subjects in an undergraduate FIS course in HE institutions of developing countries. Data were collected from 79 students who had to adhere to a set of delineation criteria. Stemming from the results and discussion, key findings indicate that m-learning can broaden educational opportunities for disadvantaged and marginalised students, extend the availability of educators outside the boundaries of the classroom, address student requirements for mobility, flexibility, and ubiquity, assist in bridging existing learning gaps in practical subjects, and increase throughput and success rates in a FIS course.


The construction of the culture of integrity in colleges and universities is beneficial to the development of a clean and honest enterprise. When placing an emphasis on the consolidation of present achievement, the study in the course of construction shouldn't be ignored. It points out the main shortages existing in the actual model. Based on the summarizing original practice and experience, it puts forward a new thought to optimize original model. Through this, it can promote the construction of integrity culture and the rapid development of construction of a clean and honest enterprise and the harmonious social development as well.


Aim: To review the choices of soft tissue coverage in distraction osteogenesis of the extremity. Methods: A PubMed literature search yielded 14 articles included for systematic review. Data were extracted from each article if available (sample size, patient age, surgical indications, type of flap, use of additional modalities, method of bone osteogenesis, postoperative events, follow-up, satisfaction, weight-bearing status, and success rate). Unpaired t-tests were performed to compare complication rates. A retrospective review of three cases was also conducted. Results: Fourteen articles discussed 145 patients with a mean age of 33.4 years and 146 extremity injuries followed over 3.3 years on average. Indications included chronic osteomyelitis or nonunion (58.2%) and acute trauma (41.8%). Average time from injury was 1.1 years. Ilizarov frame was used in 12 articles. Free flaps (88.0%) or rotational flaps (12.0%) were used, with muscle flaps (96.7%) being most common. Most extremities received free latissimus dorsi or rectus abdominis flaps. Bone grafts and antibiotic beads were often used in conjunction. Although complications and reoperations were not uncommon (up to 30%), 98.8% of patients on average were ultimately weight bearing and all articles reported > 91% success rate. Additionally, the rates of any complication were not statistically different between "fix and flap" protocol and flap or frame first. Lastly, a three-patient case series is presented. Conclusion: Bone transport with soft tissue reconstruction remains an excellent choice for patients with large bony defects or who are unable to undergo autologous bone grafting. Not one surgical approach to limb salvage is superior, and decision should be made on a case by case basis between the surgeon and the patient. Page 2 of 18 Stoneburner et al. Plast Aesthet Res 2020;7:13 I http://dx.doi.org/10.20517/2347-9264.2019.028


A new Time-Correlated Single Photon Counting (TCSPC) imaging technique delivers combined intensity-lifetime images in a two-photon laser scanning microscope. The sample is excited by laser pulses of 150 fs duration and 80 MHz repetition rate. The microscope scans the sample with a pixel dwell time in the +s range. The fluorescence is detected with a fast PMT at the non-descanned port of the laser scanning microscope. The single photon pulses from the PMT and the scan control signals from the scanning head are used to build up a three-dimensional histogram of the photon density over the time within the decay function and the image coordinates x and y. Analysis of the recorded data delivers images containing the intensity as brightness and the lifetime as colour, images within selected time windows or decay curves in selected pixels. The performance of the system is shown for typical applications such as FRET measurements, Ca imaging and discrimination of endogenous fluorophores or different dyes in living cells and tissues.


Improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness can significantly reduce the risk of all‐cause mortality. However, 7 – 45% of individuals show minimal or no improvements in exercise capacity. The aim of this study was to characterize differences in exercise capacity and training responses across mouse strains and estimate the genetic contribution to exercise capacity. Male mice from 25 inbred strains (n = 5–6/strain) performed a graded exercise test before and after 4 weeks of exercise training. Genome wide association mapping was performed using an efficient mixed model association (EMMA) algorithm to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for pre‐ and post‐training exercise capacity and the response to training. Exercise capacity was significantly different among strains when expressed as time (range = 21 – 42 min) and work performed (range = 0.4 – 3.9 kg·m). The responses to training were also different among strains. For the change in time, there was an approximately 4.5‐fold difference between the highest (+7.5 min) and lowest (−1.6 min) responding strains. This difference reached 7 fold when defined as change in work (−0.3 vs. 2.1 kg·m). Significant associations (P < 0.05) for exercise time were identified on 16 different chromosomes. Similarly, significant associations were identified on nearly all chromosomes for work performed. For training responses, significant associations were identified on 8 different chromosomes. Significant QTL on Chromosomes 3, 6, and 14 were common to most exercise phenotypes. These results indicate genetic background significantly influences responses to exercise training. Furthermore, the novel QTL identified in the current study provide new targets for investigating the mechanisms underlying variation in exercise capacity and training responses.


A method for transmitting and receiving an SVC(Scalable Video Coding) file by a scalable layer unit and an apparatus therefor are provided to form a layer descriptor of an NALU(Network Abstraction Layer Unit) and a byte unit in meta data and access the SVC file by the scalable layer unit. An SVC transmission layer determining unit(510) determines a transmission scalable layer to be transmitted to a network among at least one or more scalable layers included in respective frames of media data of an SVC file on the basis of application level information collected from the network to determine an application degree of scalable coding. An SVC application transmission unit(500) extracts the transmission scalable layer from the media data of the SVC file and transmits a generated bit stream through a layer descriptor indicating access information of at least one or more scalable layers used in the respective frames of the SVC file.


The subject of the research is the development of technologies for automated and automatic ship traffic control systems, which is of great importance in modern shipping conditions. At the same time, special attention is paid to intelligent control systems based on artificial intelligence methods, such as artificial neural networks, fuzzy logic, machine learning, evolutionary computing and genetic algorithms. As a result, integrated information navigation systems, which provide decision-making on all aspects of navigation tasks, primarily where reception, processing, storage and transmission of navigation information is required, are being created and widely used in practice. However, in such developments, due importance is not given to the human factor, namely, it is often not taken into account that the control system of a moving object is a man-machine and consists of a regulator, which includes a human operator (navigator). The inclusion of the navigator in the vessel control link leads to the need to simultaneously take into account the human factor and the characteristics of the vessel controllability, i. e. human and machine factors in their unity. In connection with the development of artificial intelligence, the concept of "human-machine symbiosis" is becoming increasingly relevant in the study of human-machine systems. The problem is that there is still no single point of view on this issue due to the lack of reasonable methods for taking into account the human factor in the process of controlling the movement of moving objects. The results of the theoretical research on the formalization of some aspects of human mental activity and their implementation in the conceptual scheme of an intelligent vessel control system are reflected in the paper. The results obtained may be of interest to specialists in vessel traffic control automation, artificial intelligence, the creation of intelligent control systems and navigation safety.


firstname.lastname@example.com Abstract. In the age of big data, information resources are facilitating the construction of ubiquitous learning environment. By following the dynamically changing needs of learners and taking a new look at information service models, this paper starts with the connotation and characteristics of the information service model of ubiquitous learning, and then proposes to excavate from the massive educational data the information resources and learning partners that meet the needs of learners, recommend the learning activities that fit the cognitive style of learners, and provide self-adaptive, personalized education services for learners. Ubiquitous learning is a new learning style resulting from the interpenetration between computing technology and emerging education theories. It means that anyone can learn anytime and everywhere based on any device and situation with free access to any information and support required to complete learning tasks easily (1). By its very nature, ubiquitous learning is the learning that centers on humans and focuses on learning tasks. In the ubiquitous learning environment, learning is a natural or spontaneous action. What learners are concerned about will be the learning tasks, rather than the learning tools or environmental factors. Big data is a term for massive, complex and diverse data sets that are gathered by the data processing and application model based on cloud computing. Big data inject new potential into ubiquitous learning. It can store resulting data, record procedural data, interpret the macroscopic and overall state of education and more importantly it can better supervise the learning track and process of individuals and provide personalized services and guidance. At present, however, education information resources are disorderly increasing, weakly interoperable and loosely associated, which makes it impossible to provide one-stop learning services for learners. By taking a new look at information service models and following the dynamically changing needs of learners, this paper proposes to excavate from the massive educational data the information resources and learning partners that meet the needs of learners, recommend the learning activities that fit the cognitive style of learners, and provide self-adaptive, personalized education services for learners.


It is inherent hi the nature of a closer relation of states that an organ be created for the decision of disputes between the individual members of a confederation. The Swiss Confederation has at all times applied itself to this task.


Summary: Delayed reconstruction of large lower lip defects after traumatic avulsion is a challenge in medically compromised patients with concomitant cheek skin burn. Combination of orthograde submental transposition flap and anteriorly based ventral rectangular myomucosal tongue flap is useful. The former reconstructs the body of the defect, and the latter masks the red lip, resembling vermilion. In this article, the detailed surgical technique is explained. Literature review of tongue flap and submental flap in the lower lip reconstruction is presented.


This research used an sacrum mounted self developed inertial sensor, which provides triaxial accelerometers and gyroscopes, RF capability and 2GB on-board memory in a waterproof casing to investigate the arm symmetry in freestyle swimming. The recorded acceleration data was filtered using a high-pass Hamming windowed FIR filter to remove the sensor orientation from the wanted signal. The signal was then analyzed using a zero-crossing detection algorithm to find the individual stroke rates (SR) and the differences between left and right arm stroke durations (asymmetry).


Kingiella chilenica, a brooder mollusc, inhabiting soft bottoms of estuarine tidal flats of southern Chile, is well suited to study larval recruitment. It is a tiny semelparous clam with an annual cycle, and whose recruits must survive an inhospitable winter season prior to growing and reaching reproductive maturity in the following summer season. The population dynamics of this clam was studied through periodic sampling over two successive years to follow fluctuations in its' abundance. Obtained data on embryo production and recruit survival over both periods shows that population abundance varied widely between the two years of study. A high level on recruit survival through the winter of the first year resulted in high numbers of adults in the corresponding summer reproductive season. An inverse situation occurred in the second year, with lower recuit survival and, consequently, fewer reproducing adults. However, the lower abundance of adults in the second year was compensated by their having a higher survival rate over the reproductive season as compared with adults of the previous year. Independently of the abundance of the adults, the number of embryos incubated per female was very similar between both periods. Consequently, we suggest that the net contribution of juveniles produced by females per unit substrate was similar between the annual cycles studied. As predicted for a semelparous species (high reproductive effort), the maximization of the reproductive contribution was clearly reflected by a drop in adult somatic weight, particularly in incubating females. Previous data on abundance for this population suggested inter-annual differences of a high magnitude, with periods (e.g. 1986–1988) with abundances reaching 2–6× that presently reported. Probably, stable environmental conditions (e.g. 1986–1988) promote high abundance and survival of reproducers allowing a large contribution of recruits, which in turn show high degrees of survival through the adult phase. The years reported here (2003–2005), however, represent a period of population decline to lower, perhaps minimum, levels.


Objective: The prevalence of Hydatid disease in the livestock of Wensu, Xinjiang was investigated from2011 to 2013. Method: The infection of Hydatid in cattle and sheep from slaughter houses was checked,and the infection of Echinococcus granulosus of home/herding fecal samples collected were detected by using the fecal Antigen sandwich ELISA method. Results: During 2011-2013, the infection rate of echinococcosis was 42.4%(336/793), 13.8%(30/217), 11.5%(208/1817), respectively. This suggested an average infection rate of 20.3%(574/2827) and showed a statistically significant decrease in the infection rate(x2=332.338, P=0.0000.01). Meanwhile, the infection rate of echinococcus granulosus in dogs was 12%(30/250), 8.3%(20/240) and 8.8%(21/240). The average infection rate was 9.7%(71/730) which was not statistically significant(x2=2.263, P 0.05). Conclusion: These results illustrated that there was a decline in Hydatid infection in livestock; while there was an increase in the infection rate of Echinococcus granulosus infection in dogs.


Dynamic geometry systems are computer applications allowing the exact on– screen drawing of geometric diagrams and their interactive manipulation by mouse dragging. Whereas there exists an extensive list of 2D dynamic geometry environments, the number of 3D systems is reduced. Most of them, both in 2D and 3D, share a common approach for the management of geometric constructions, using numerical data for the present diagram instance and elementary methods for computing derived objects. This paper deals with a parametric approach for automatic management of 3D Euclidean constructions. An open source library, implementing the core functions in a 3D dynamic geometry system, is described here. The library deals with constructions by using symbolic parameters, so allowing a full algebraic knowledge about objects such as loci and envelopes. This parametric approach is also a prerequisite for performing automatic proof, and basic functions are defined for symbolically checking the truth of statements. Using recent results coming from the theory of parametric polynomial systems solving, the bottleneck in the automatic determination of geometric loci and envelopes is solved. As far as we know, there is no comparable library in the 3D case, except the paramGeo3D library (designed for computing equations of simple 3D geometric objects, but it lacks specific functions for finding loci and envelopes).


The impact of turbulent flow on plane strain fluid‐driven crack propagation is an important but still poorly understood consideration in hydraulic fracture modeling. The changes that hydraulic fracturing has experienced over the past decade, especially in the area of fracturing fluids, have played a major role in the transition of the typical fluid regime from laminar to turbulent flow. Motivated by the increasing preponderance of high‐rate, water‐driven hydraulic fractures with high Reynolds number, we present a semianalytical solution for the propagation of a plane strain hydraulic fracture driven by a turbulent fluid in an impermeable formation. The formulation uses a power law relationship between the Darcy‐Weisbach friction factor and the scale of the fracture roughness, where one specific manifestation of this generalized friction factor is the classical Gauckler‐Manning‐Strickler approximation for turbulent flow in a rough‐walled channel. Conservation of mass, elasticity, and crack propagation are also solved simultaneously. We obtain a semianalytical solution using an orthogonal polynomial series. An approximate closed‐form solution is enabled by a choice of orthogonal polynomials embedding the near‐tip asymptotic behavior and thus giving very rapid convergence; a precise solution is obtained with 2 terms of the series. By comparison with numerical simulations, we show that the transition region between the laminar and turbulent regimes can be relatively small so that full solutions can often be well approximated by either a fully laminar or fully turbulent solution.


This study aims to solve the problem of locating charging stations for public electric vehicles. We take into consideration the factors affecting charging station locations including mileage, electric vehicles distribution, and passenger distribution. A Non-deterministic Polynomial model aiming to minimize the total vehicle service distance is developed. We use an agent-based model to simulate the optimized charging station location based on Anylogic. Through a case study of Beijing, we test the model in five situations. The results of one situation show that the existing layout of the charging stations is unreasonable when charging frequency is sharply variant (basic model); this paper optimizes the existing location by improving the constraint for the smallest number of charging stations (improved model); compared with the basic model, the improved model has a shorter response time to passenger demand, shorter service time for passengers but more mileage for electric vehicles.


The formulation of the problem in this study was to find out how Organizational Culture in Improving Employee Satisfaction at Happy Inn Hotel Kendari, The data analysis technique used in this study was descriptive qualitative and the data collection techniques used in this study were observation, interviews and documentationFrom the results of the study show that organizational culture forms employees who are able to adapt to the environment and unites members of the organization to improve results every day the employee is trained and guided effectively and job satisfaction can also be interpreted as a match between the expectations of an employee with the benefits he gets from the work becomes an organizational culture and job satisfaction are interconnected.


ABSTRACT: This work analyses a real time orbit estimator using the raw navigation solution provided by GPSreceivers. The estimation algorithm considers a Kalman filter with a rather simple orbit dynamic model andrandom walk modeling of the receiver clock bias and drift. Using the Topex/Poseidon satellite as test bed,characteristics of model truncation, sampling rates and degradation of the GPS receiver (Selective Availability)were analysed. 1. INTRODUCTION The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite navigation system for determining position, velocity and thetime with high precision. The GPS system allows a GPS receiver to determine its position and time at any placeusing data from at least four GPS satellites (Parkinson and Spilker [10]). Using such a system, this workproposes to compute, in real time, a state vector composed of position, velocity, GPS receiver clock bias anddrift of a satellite equipped with an on-board GPS receiver, by filtering the raw navigation solutions provided bythe receiver. The Kalman filter is used to estimate the state vector based on the incoming observations from thereceiver. The filter dynamic model includes perturbation due to geopotential and the bias is modeled as randomwalk processes. The observations include the raw navigation solution composed of position and time bias.Several tests are done using three days of observations of a GPS receiver on board TOPEX/POSEIDON (T/P)satellite, which are processed by the proposed algorithm. A comparison is done between the estimated statevector and the precise orbit ephemeris (POE) produced by JPL/NASA. Other characteristics are also analysed,including effects of truncated dynamic model, sampling rate and Selective Availability (SA) effect, to depict theprocedure performance in terms of accuracy and computational burden. Current samples of satellites having anon-board GPS receiver are Kompsat (Lee et al. [8]) and BIRD (Briess [1]). Kompsat does not use the navigationsolution to real time orbit determination, but for post processing orbit determination on ground. Unlikely BIRDhas a receiver providing the navigation solution which is processed in real time on-board (Gill and Montenbruck[4]; Montenbruck [9]), however by an epoch state filter in conjunction with NORAD two-lines model (Hootsand Roehrich [6]). With a growing trend of on-board GPS receivers flying on upcoming satellites this workinvestigates characteristics of a simple real time algorithm which could influence the performance of the system.Also, the next generation of Brazilian satellites with no exceptions are designed to have platforms carrying GPSreceivers, such as MMP (Multi-Mission Platform), EQUARS (Equatorial Scientific Satellite), and CBERS 3 and4 series (China Brazil Earth Resources Satellite).


Mineral nitrogen (Nmin = N-NH4 + + N-NO3 −) in oven-dried and field-moist samples was investigated in 2011– 2014 in five areas of Lithuania with soils of different texture (sand, sandy loam, loam and clay) and different mineral nitrogen (Nmin) content. The samples were taken in spring (from late March to early April) and autumn (late October – early November), from the 0–30, 30–60 and 60–90 cm as well as from 0–60 cm soil layers. The aim of the research was to determine the influence of different methods of soil sample preparation on the concentrations of ammonium (N-NH4 +) and nitrate (N-NO3 −) nitrogen in oven-dried and field-moist samples and to assess the suitability of the obtained results for the development of agricultural plant fertilisation plans. According to the research results, drying of soil samples at a temperature of 35°C for 12 hours resulted in significantly higher levels of N-NH4 + compared to those of field-moist samples. The N-NO3 − concentrations in the field-moist samples, when stored at a 4°C temperature for 3 days, increased marginally compared to the oven-dried soil samples. Weak or moderate, however, statistically significant correlations were observed between N-NH4 + concentrations in the oven-dried and field-moist samples. In order to perform faster chemical analyses of soil Nmin for making agricultural plant fertilisation plans, it is necessary to carry out analyses on oven-dried soil samples, and using the linear correlation equations, to convert the results of N-NH4 + analyses into field-moisture data.


CuPc ultrathin films (5 monolayers) are employed to detect NO2 in chemFETs [organic thin film transistors (OTFTs)]; while the NO2 causes OTFT degradation, H2O restores OTFT performance. To develop an atomic understanding of this H2O induced performance recovery, NO2/CuPc/Au(111) was exposed to H2O, then observed using ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy. After dosing NO2 (10 ppm for 5 min) onto CuPc monolayers under ambient conditions, domain fracture is induced in CuPc monolayers, and CuPc aggregates are formed near new grain boundaries, consistent with dissociative O adsorption between CuPc molecules and Au(111). Conversely, after exposing H2O onto a fractured CuPc monolayer for 30 min, fractured domains merge, then large area domains are generated. As the duration of H2O exposure increases to 4 h, second layer growth of CuPc molecules is observed on the CuPc monolayers consistent with H2O breakdown of CuPc aggregates which have formed at the domain boundaries. The results are consistent with...


It is well known that the number of people neglecting to turn out at elections is on the increase. It is also firmly established that non-voters tend, on the whole, to be younger than the population at large. This non-participation in electoral life increasingly problematic for representative democracy as a whole. In an extract from a new Democratic Audit publication, Guy Lodge, Glenn Gottfried, and Sarah Birch vividly illustrate the growing power gap between young and old.


This paper discusses the Hall automatic test system that includes three Keithley's GPIB instruments and a set of Oxford's RS-232 instrument, used for measuring Hall coefficient, resistivity,carrier concentration and mobility of semiconductor slice accurately and in batches.The Hall automatic test software for windows 95/98 is developed with Borland C++Builder of a visual RAD tool for C++. This program has the integrated working environment and complete dBASE database management function of whole Chinese GUI and menu driven typical Windows program.The Oxford's RS-232 instrument once controlled only by program written in ObjectBench BASIC can be controlled in C++Builder with ActiveX automation.


Metabolism of 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole was studied in 28-day-old seedlings of Pinus pinea injected with 5-14C-labelled 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole into the hypocotyl or tip of one of the 13 cotyledons. The seedlings were allowed to metabolize the labelled triazole for a period of 4, 14, or 21 days and were harvested and separated into cotyledons, apex, hypocotyl, and roots. The label upon extraction from the various parts was partially purified through a Dowex 50 W-8 resin exchange column and eluted with NH4OH and water for thin-layer chromatography. The radioautographs showed several metabolites including unmetabolized amitrole in all parts after 4 days of metabolism. Two of the slower running metabolites correspond to 'unknown I' orX1 and X3 previously reported in Pinus ponderosa and Abies concolor and the two faster running metabolites have not been reported before. The metabolism of amitrole seems to occur in both hypocotyl and cotyledons (sites of injection) and the metabolites, as well as unmetabolized, fr...


Objective To explore the relationship between depression and metabolic syndrome in women.Method Each of the metabolic syndrome indicators was determined in 90 female depression patients and 148 controls.Results Compared to control group,Female patients with depression group had higher prevalence in metabolic syndrome,there was a significant difference(P0.01).There was no significant difference in Body Mass Index(BMI) and Blood pressure(BP)in depression group and control group(all P0.05).Depression group had higher fasting plasma glucose(FPG),higher triglyceride(TG) and lower high density lipoprotein(HDL)(P0.05 or P0.01).Conclusion The female depression is significantly associated with metabolic syndrome.It is very important for the metabolic status of patients with depression to treat depression in early stage.It's needs to monitor the health status of depression patients.


This paper adopted GPS surveying technology to survey the primary level GPS control network of the Hangzhou Bay Major Bridge, the result indicated that:(1)There are some ways\|constructing deep stake stable mark, adding efficient surveying time, reinforced checking the quality and precision of the data, and establishing a rational coordinate system\|to improve the precision. Meanwhile, this paper handled the data with the high precision software Bernese, the precise Star Calendar and transferring coordinate, then ensured that the precision was under a decimeter. Afterward a sound effect was achieved.(2)The close ring of the Bernese base\|line data and the examination of the reconveyed base\|line showed that all numeric difference of the synchronous ring, the unsynchronous ring and the base\|line were under the restriction. Furthermore, the ring number of the base\|lines those precisions under the 1/3 restriction were 933%, 777% and 100% respectively, and the results were excellent.(3)All the control points medium errors of the GPS network were under the restriction(02 mm).Moreover, the precision of the 966% control points were under 667 mm. The difference between the result from the Precise Star Calendar and the result from the Broadcasting Star Calendar was insignificant that it was under the half of the restriction. The result from the Precise Star Calendar was clear superiority than the result from the Broadcasting Star Calendar.


A common problem in dynamic systems is to determine parameters in an equation used to represent experimental data. The goal is to determine the values of model parameters that provide the best fit to measured data, generally based on some type of least squares or maximum likelihood criterion. In the most general case, this requires the solution of a nonlinear and frequently non-convex optimization problem. Some of the available software lack in generality, while others do not provide ease of use. A user-interactive parameter estimation software was needed for identifying kinetic parameters. In this work we developed an integration based optimization approach to provide a solution to such problems. For easy implementation of the technique, a parameter estimation software (PARES) has been developed in MATLAB environment. When tested with extensive example problems from literature, the suggested approach is proven to provide good agreement between predicted and observed data within relatively less computing time and iterations.


: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted all aspects of life. To stop uncontrollable virus spread, the Governments declared lockdown in many countries. The economic and social consequences of the pandemic had a significant impact on organizational development. In response to the crisis, organizations had to accelerate the strategy of digital transformation to adapt to unprecedent situation. The purpose of the contribution is to measure the magnitude of the impact of COVID-19 on digital transformation in organizations. The article presents results of research dedicated to the situation in selected areas. Primary quantitative data were obtained using a questionnaire survey taking place before and after the beginning of the pandemic. The selected outputs compare the results of the digital transformation in organizations in two periods, before 2020 and after. The sample contains thousands of respondents. The results confirm the rapid transfer of organizations to become more digital toward interacting with customers and suppliers through digital technologies. The rate of adoption of digital initiatives is higher than before the crisis. Therefore, is an indisputable output of the questionnaire survey focused on the role of CIO, number of information systems, ICT investments, user comfort, and the will of managers to listen to user request.


The effect of high Zn stress on Zn uptake, accumulation and the growth of three varieties of Salix integra were analyzed through nutrient solution culture. The results show that the influence of Zn treatment on growth parameters is related to plant variety, plant part and Zn concentration. Growth parameters of the three varieties are retarded at Zn concentration of 100 μmol·L-1(low) and 1 000 μmol·L-1(high). Root length of 'Weishanhu' and 'Dahongtou', and root biomass of 'Dahongtou' significantly drop in low Zn concentration. Stem height, root length and biomass markedly reduce in high Zn concentration. Zn uptake and accumulation vary with plant variety and shoot Zn content decreases with increasing Zn concentration. However, root Zn content increases with elevated Zn concentration. Root Zn concentration is generally higher than that of shoot. For the different plant varieties, shoot Zn concentration ranges from 1 477.58 to 1 583.19 μg·g-1 in low concentration Zn with an average of 1 530.29 μg·g-1. Translocation factor (TF) decreases with Zn concentration increasing with TF for 'Weishanhu' and 'Yizhibi' higher than that for 'Dahongtou'. Shoot total Zn content decreases with increasing Zn concentration. Shoot total Zn amount from 2 332.58 to 3 871.41 μg with an average of 3 266.27 μg. Shoot/root total Zn ratio is in excess of 1 for three varieties. Tolerance index (TI) decreases with increasing Zn concentration, which is above 0.5 for the three varieties in low Zn concentration. This study suggests that high Zn concentration severely inhibits growth of S. integra. The three varieties have strong tolerance and high accumulation capacity in low Zn concentration. This shows that S. integra has a high potential for phytoextraction of Zn, whose concentration is not higher than 100 μmol·L-1.


Synthesis of 22,26-Epiminocholestanols

The synthesis of the 22,26-epiminocholestanol derivative solacongestidine (3) from solasodine is improved using diisobutylaluminium hydride for the removal of the N-acetyl group of 1 to give 2.


Online auctions have been the subject of many empirical research efforts in the fields of economics and information systems. These research efforts are often based on analyzing data from Web sites such as eBay.com which provide public information about sequences of bids in closed auctions, typically in the form of tables on HTML pages. The existing literature on online auctions focuses on tools like summary statistics and more formal statistical methods such as regression models. However, there is a clear void in this growing body of literature in developing appropriate visualization tools. This is quite surprising, given that the sheer amount of data that can be found on sites such as eBay.com is overwhelming and can often not be displayed informatively using standard statistical graphics. In this article we introduce graphical methods for visualizing online auction data in ways that are informative and relevant to the types of research questions that are of interest. We start by using profile plots that reveal aspects of an auction such as bid values, bidding intensity, and bidder strategies. We then introduce the concept of statistical zooming (STAT-zoom) which can scale up to be used for visualizing large amounts of auctions. STAT-zoom adds the capability of looking at data summaries at various time scales interactively. Finally, we develop auction calendars and auction scene visualizations for viewing a set of many concurrent auctions. The different visualization methods are demonstrated using data on multiple auctions collected from eBay.com.


Invention is a thin metal mold adapted to be used in the press. Here the mold disclosed in includes a base or support portion to provide rigidity to the mold assembly. Base includes a recess defining a boundary around the base of the peripheral edge. Thin mold is housed in recess of the base, it is bonded to the base of the recess by an adhesive. Thin mold, that is disposed in recess of the base, the raised portion of the thin mold, to allow the thin mold biting into the sheet material, facing outwardly away from the recess of the base. Discharging foam, is adhered to the raised portion of the thin mold by an adhesive, to protect the ridges of the thin mold, it provides a discharge means with respect shaped portion cut from the sheet material. Further, the invention is a press system using a mold and a thin gold type disclosed herein. Included in this system may be a platen press or roller die press, a die press. Die-pressing is in a platen die press is used, or cutting the sheet material, comprising a cutting pad to allow a mold for pressed into the cutting pad. Further, the system includes a thin mold adapted to be used in a die press. Thin die includes a base, a thin mold part, and a discharge foam section. By base and discharging foam portion sandwich the thin die portion, a thin mold part is arranged in depressions of the base, it is bonded by an adhesive. Further, the discharge foam part is bonded to a thin mold part so as to protect the ridges of the thin mold part, to protect the ridges of the thin mold part, to discharge the cut-shaped portion from a sheet material to function as a discharge means for.


As a consequence of the wide-spread application of digital geo-data in Geoinformation Systems (GIS), quality control has become increasingly important. A high degree of automation is required in order to make quality control efficient enough for practical application. In order to achieve this goal we have designed and implemented a semi-automatic technique for the verification of cropland and grassland GIS objects using 1 m pan-sharpened multispectral IKONOS imagery. The approach compares the GIS objects and compares them with data derived from high resolution remote sensing imagery using image analysis techniques. Textural, structural, and spectral features are assessed in a classification based on Support Vector Machines (SVM) in order to check whether a cropland or grassland object in the GIS is correct or not. The approach is explained in detail, and an evaluation is presented using reference data. Both the potential and the limitations of the system are discussed.


Abstract Dendropanax morbifera Lev. (Araliaceae) is an economically important tree species because of its role in the production of golden varnishes as well as its use as an ornamental plant. As an endemic tree species of Korea, it is restricted to the southern parts of Korea as isolated populations. In this study, eight natural populations of D. morbifera were investigated by starch-gel electrophoresis in an attempt to determine the extent of its genetic diversity. Out of 8 natural populations, the Suak population in Jeju island showed the lowest level of genetic diversity, while the Wando island population in Jeonnam showed the highest level of genetic diversity. Levels of genetic diversity maintained in D. morbifera (A/L =1.5, P95 = 27.3%, Ho = 0.100, He = 0.095) were notably lower than those of other tree species with wider and more continuous geographic distributions. The reasons for the low level of genetic diversity in D. morbifera might be due to the genetic drift caused by artificial disturbances. Most of the total genetic diversity (96%) was found within the populations. The UPGMA dendrogram based on Nei's genetic distance did not show any particular geographic patterns. The low level of genetic diversity suggested that there should be an urgent emphasis on the conservation study of this species.


All types of barrage structures require different types of gates and stop logs to control flows over sill ways and weirs during operation. Two cases of loading are implemented in the design of the vertical gates; under water load (operation), and the crane (lifting) conditions. The main objective of this study is to propose and investigate new systems for the design of vertical hydraulic gates to make their cost effective. The new proposed system is the honeycomb structure. The primary advantage of such system is its rigidity from folded plates and high strength with light weight. A finite element model of Naga Hammadi stop log vertical left gate using SAP program (2000-ver 14.2.4-2012) [1] has been developed. The different elements of the lifting gate are designed with the Allowable Stress Design (ASD) method according to the Egyptian Code of design of buildings and bridges, (ASD). The results obtained from the finite element model were compared with those obtained from ECP, (2008) [2]. Also A finite element models were performed to the new proposed systems using Honeycomb sandwich structures with different types of cores, (square, rhombus and hexagonal) and different sizes for each shape of the honeycomb core. The three types of sandwich honeycomb stoplog panels provide acceptable stress results while allowing weight reduction compared with the traditional stoplog panel, especially the square sandwich honeycomb panel that provided the largest weight reduction.


The present invention discloses a method for transmitting and receiver for restoring the symbols H-ARQ retransmission of the packet. The method includes receiving a communication signal (304); determining the signal component does not contribute to the desired symbols (306); removing unwanted components from the signal to generate a modified communication signal (308); determining corrected communication signal effective channel impulse response (310); using the effective channel impulse response filter generating block (312); and using the block filter for filtering the modified communication signal to remove inter-correcting communication signal symbol interference (313) and restore the symbol you want.


We are concerned with the approximation of probability measures on a compact metric space ( X, d ) by invariant measures of iterated function systems with place-dependent probabilities (IFSPDP). The approximation is performed by moment matching. Associated with an IFSPDP ifspdpwsc-1 is a linear operator A : D ( X ) → D ( X ), where D ( X ) denotes the set of all infinite moment vectors of probability measures on X . Let µ be a probability measure that we desire to approximate, with moment vector g = ( g 0 , g 1 , · · · ). We then look for an IFSPDP which maps g as close to itself as possible in terms of an appropriate metric on D ( X ). Some computational results are presented.


SAGD technology is studied by using numerical simulation and physical simulation methods,the enhancing recovery mechanism of none-condensate gas in SAGD,the application and effectiveness of SAGD in UTF project abroad are traced and analyzed,it is recognized that adding none-condensate gas to steam is an operable method technically.None-condensate gas moves in front of steam,and there is higher oil drainage efficiency,effective expansion of SAGD steam chamber can be maintained,better recovery rate and oil-gas ratio can be obtained,the mount of used steam is saved.UTF in-situ test data and obtained conclusions are helpful for following up SAGD development,the technique is verified to be valuable for wide application and popularization.


The life cycle and parasitization of Trichogramma galloi Zucchi and T. pretiosum Riley were studied on natural and factitious hosts, and on artificial diets. Eggs of sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis (F.) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), and tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (F.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), were used as natural hosts of T. galloi and T. pretiosum , respectively. Eggs of Mediterranean flour moth, Anagasta kuehniella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), were used as factitious host for both parasitoids. T. galloi was reared in vitro on a diet of 70% hemolymph of larvae of corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), 20% chicken egg-yolk, 10% bovine fetal serum, and 0.2% streptomycin. T. pretiosum was reared on a similar diet, with 5% H. virescens egg juice replacing 5% bovine fetal serum. The egg-adult development of T. pretiosum reared on the artificial diet was delayed, whereas developmental differences were not found for T. galloi reared on natural or artificial diets. Survivorship was also reduced for both parasitoids reared on artificial diets. The parasitization and female longevity were reduced for parasitoids reared on the factitious host or artificial diets. No differences in adult size or in morphology of the genital apparatus were detected among parasitoids reared in vitro or in vivo; but wing and abdominal malformations occurred for parasitoids reared on artificial diets.


The provision of adequate and equitable basic health services is becoming increasingly difficult due to rapid population growth, rising poverty levels and lack of available resources. One of the imperatives of health care provision is a concern for both social and spatial justice. This study is an attempt to examine the spatial distribution of health facilities in Benue State. The perspective taken is spatial and focuses on the problem of inadequacy and inequality of public health facilities among populations in Benue state. Health infrastructure provision within the State is analyzed along three lines: between Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state; between senatorial zones; and on the basis of population per facility using secondary data on number of health care facilities. The study shows that although public health care facilities were nearly equally distributed among the 3 senatorial districts of the state, variations exists between the LGAs and within each senatorial district in terms of the overall distribution of health facilities(public and private). In terms of existing relationship between population and number of health facilities provided, the R-square value of .564 explained the variance in number of health facilities to population. The implications of the mal-distribution manifest in overcrowding and consequent lack of proper attention to patients as well as poor access in some specific LGAs with vulnerable conditions of low number of health facilities especially among the rural dwellers. The study recommends a more robust investigation in the existing health care facilities with a view to establishing the levels of health manpower available, bedding and other facilities as well as the actual access levels individuals and communities have to health care facilities in Benue State.


The study of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by non‐phagocyte NADPH oxidase 5 (NOX5) and dual oxidase (DUOX) is of growing importance for vascular physiology and disease development. Their ROS activities appear to be regulated by their self‐contained EF‐hand domains (EFDs). Previously, we demonstrated that Ca2+ induces conformational change on NOX5‐EFD and suggested that its N‐ and C‐terminal halves behave differently, including conformational change, kinetics of binding, and chemical stability. Here we extended the study by using separated half domain proteins and characterized their Ca2+ and Mg2+ binding using fluorescence and isothermal titration calorimetry. The key residues for Ca2+ binding in each EF‐hand motif of the half domain proteins were mutated to determine the impacts on Ca2+ and Mg2+ binding. Since domain‐domain interaction is essential for ROS production, interaction of NOX5 EFD to flavoprotein was only observed in the presence of Ca2+. Furthermore, EFD enhances the cytochrome C reduction of flavoprotein. For DUOX‐EFD, the preliminary data suggests that a dramatic conformational change is not essential based on fluorescence data. Currently, we are performing experiments to identify the peptide sequence that interacts with its EFD and to investigate possible dimer formation that might play roles in DUOX ROS production. This work is supported in part by Cottrell College Science Award from Research Corporation.


Domain stability and structures in Pb(Zr0.3Ti0.7)O3/Pb(Zr0.7Ti0.3)O3 bilayer films under different substrate strains are studied using the phase field method. It is demonstrated that the domain structure of the bilayer film is very different from those of the corresponding single layer films grown on the same silicon substrate with an incoherent interface. Moreover, the predicted rhombohedral domains in the Pb(Zr0.7Ti0.3)O3 layer of the bilayer film have smaller sizes than those in the single layer case. These results are compared with experimental observations and previous thermodynamic analyses. The polarization distributions of the ferroelectric–paraelectric bilayer are analyzed as a function of the thickness of the bilayer film, where there is a "ferroelectric proximity effect" due to dipole–dipole interactions. The phase diagrams for both the bilayer and single layer films as a function of temperature and effective in-plane substrate strain are constructed. 2013 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.


We present a Virtual Ant Laboratory agent-based model, an interactive and prediction tool to simulate the ants' environment and their decisions making and foraging behaviors. The proposed simulation model provides the ability to generate customized complex ant environments and to explore the interaction between the environment features and ants' behavior.As expected, the results showed that the quality of the food and the distance between food sources and the nest have a significant impact on the ants' decisions. The model was partially validated via live-ants laboratory experiments and can easily be generalized to other environments/agents.


Stitching is used to reduce dry-core and reinforce T-joint structure. However, it might cause new types of flaws, especially submillimeter flaws. In this paper, new approaches including micro-VT, lock-in micro-LLT and micro-LST based on both lock-in and pulse methods are used to detect submillimeter flaws in stitched CFRP. A comparison of laser excitation thermography and micro-VT on micro-porosities is conducted. Micro-CT is used to validate the infrared results. Then, a finite element analysis (FEA) is performed. The geometrical model needed for finite element discretization was developed from micro-CT measurements. The model is validated for the experimental results. Finally a comprehensive experimental and simulation comparison of micro-LLT and micro-LST based on both lock-in and pulse methods is conducted.


In a publication from the Robert Woods Johnson Foundation, it was recognized that a person"s zip code was a more important predictor of health than their genetic code. Where we live influences not only our access to health care, but other health indicators as well. Clark County has a low primary care physician to population ratio compared to other counties in Nevada and in the US. Clark County also has highest rates of uninsured in the Mountain West and among the highest in the nation.


Abstract In this article we look at the consequences of feminisms being viewed as racially, geographically and historically specific. We suggest that as feminist ideas become publicly well known and popularised, they are forged through a notion of 'woman' as a singular, and non‐racialised category, which can be seen by looking at, for example, discussions of sexual harassment in the public domain. The discussion we analyse is from the transcripts of the Opening Remarks of the October 1991 US Senate Haerings, in which allegations of sexual harassment were put forward by Anita Hill, a black woman Professor of Law, against Clarence Thomas, a black man who was nominated as a Justice for the Supreme Court in the United States. We refine our concept of 'discursive configurations' for understanding the shifting meanings of sexual harassment, and outline some implications for developing racially conscious popular feminisms.


The invention is applicable to braking equipment, and provides a roller device with a brake mechanism. The roller device comprises a roller support, a roller, a roller shaft, the brake mechanism and an anti-off piece; two bearing plates are arranged on the roller support side by side; the roller is arranged between the two bearing plates; the roller is arranged between the two bearing plates through the roller shaft; the brake mechanism and the anti-off piece are installed on the roller shaft. The two bearing plates are respectively provided with a through hole, wherein the roller shaft penetrates through the through holes to install the roller between the two bearing plates; the anti-off piece is installed at the end of the roller shaft so as to prevent the brake mechanism from falling off. The brake mechanism is installed on the roller shaft of the roller device, is convenient to mount and dismount, and is easy to maintain when damaged. Meanwhile, the invention further discloses a battery box comprising the roller device with the brake mechanism. The battery box is convenient to move and is placed stably. The invention further discloses a movable lamp comprising the battery box. All parts of the lamp are detachably stored in the battery box, so that the lamp is convenient to move and erect and is stably fixed.


The stored blood employed during World War II for the treatment of battle casualties was almost exclusively group-O blood, in consequence of which patients of blood groups A, B and AB were obliged to receive incompatible isoagglutinins in the course of transfusion. Anti-A and anti-B isoagglutinins, incompletely absorbed in the process of pooling, were likewise contained in the dried plasma supplied by the Army. Thus, all patients of blood groups other than group 0 receiving pooled plasma, and over 50 per cent of those who were transfused with whole blood were subjected to the injection of incompatible isoagglutinins. The preponderance of evidence in the literature indicates that the transfusion of group-O blood into recipients of other blood groups rarely produces serious reactions (1). The most extensive observations in this connection were reported by Aubert et al. (2), who described instances of chills, fever and evidences of blood destruction, but no serious complications following such transfusions. Reports of severe reactions in response to the injection of incompatible group-O blood have, however, appeared from time to time. A proper evaluation of such records in the earlier literature is difficult, because of the lack of data pertaining to Rh compatibility, but isolated cases have more recently been described (3 to 5) in which the Rh factor clearly could not be implicated. The present report is based on a detailed study of transfusion recipients, including 85 soldiers who received incompatible isoagglutinins in varying amounts. This investigation has been conducted for the purpose of determining in what manner and to what extent humans may react to the administration of whole blood and plasma containing these isoagglutinins, with the hope that such observations might yield data of practical


PURPOSE: Provided is a solvent fraction of cacao beans and cacao hulls exhibiting strong inhibition activity against inflammation caused by bacterial endotoxin and various skin inflammation-inducing materia. Therefore, pharmaceuticals and food additives containing the solvent fraction are useful for the prevention and treatment of inflammation. CONSTITUTION: An antiinflammatory agent and a food additive having antiinflammatory activity characteristically contains cacao beans and cacao hulls as an effective ingredient. For an example, 1 part by weight of a fraction of cacao beans is extracted in 6 parts by weight of 50% acetone at 60deg.C for 5hr under refluxing and centrifuged at 8,000rpm at 4deg.C for 30min., and the residue is extracted one time by the same method. The extracts are filtered with Whatman No. 41 paper and subjected to absorption column chromatography with a 20% aqueous ethanol solution.


This paper analyzes the relationship between the English simple past tense and the present perfect and discusses the influence of bounded, unbounded verbs and time adverbials. On this basis, the paper points out some problems in the teaching of tense and aspect and explores ways to solve these problems.


The identity SN2(C),SN2(N),SN2(Si) and SN2(P) reactions with Cl-have been investigated by an ab initio calculation method. Studies indicate that the activation energies of the back-attack and front-attack title reactions are affected by polarization and electronegativity of the central atom to a certain degree. The stronger the ability of polarization of the central atoms is,the lower the activation energy of the title reactions is,and the title reaction proceeds more easily. And the larger the electronegativity of the central atom is,the higher the activation energy of the title reactions is,and the title reaction proceeds difficultly.


The productivity of the wood grinding process can be increased by using abrasive wheels with spherical corundum grains. They also expand the area of application of rigid abrasive instruments by reducing soiling and eliminating burns on the treated surface. The studies revealed several advantages of the abrasive wheels over sanding paper: very precise processing, achievement of the desired grade of the treated surface, high durability of the instrument, and low cost. A force analysis of a grinding surface with micro-cuttings made of spherical corundum grains was performed depending on the degree of its wear. The results revealed that chip removal by the spherical corundum grains was possible only under certain conditions when the cutting edges of the grains were exposed. Besides, the theoretical dependencies of forces in micro-cutting were obtained from every principal condition for the process of grinding wood and wooden materials: properties of the spheres, treatment modes, and material-related factors. The special properties were analyzed by the chip formation process and self-sharpening conditions of the spherical corundum wheels. The grain size had the greatest influence on the thickness of chips which were cut by one grain. The grain content and bonding, like other properties of the internal volumetric structure, had a less substantial impact. The abrasive tool characteristics must complement the processed material, such as grain size, hardness, and structure. On the other hand, spherical corundum has optimal physical and mechanical properties for grinding, particularly the thickness of the grain's edges, which primarily determine the material's tensile strength. The grinding depth and feed rate mostly define the parameters of the grinding performance of wood and wood-based materials. An increase in those leads to a rise in cutting forces, roughness of the ground surface, a reduction in the grinding length over the period of the wheel's durability, and the grinding coefficient. If the grinding depth and feed rate are constant, the performance can be improved by increasing the cutting rate. For citation: Sergeevichev A.V., Sokolova V.A., Mikhailova A.E., Ovcharova E.O., Voinash S.A. Force Analysis of a Single Grain Cutting Process in Wood Grinding Using Spherical Corundum. Lesnoy Zhurnal = Russian Forestry Journal, 2023, no. 3, pp. 140–154. (In Russ.). https://doi.org/10.37482/0536-1036-2023-3-140-154


Background : Primary small cell neuroendocrine tumor of the breast is a rare form of tumor with very few reported cases in the medical literature. The rarity of the disease has produced a lacuna in the management algorithms of the disease. Most of the times extrapolation of management protocols of small cell carcinoma lung is employed. Case Report : We report here a primary small cell neuroendocrine tumor of the breast in a post-menopausal lady. The diagnosis was reached by DOTA-NOC scan, considered highly specific for neuroendocrine tumors and post-operative histopathological examination. Conclusion : Breast is an extremely rare site for primary small cell carcinoma. Management protocols in existence are yet to be standardized.


This chapter turns to the question of who should pay for an education system founded on the right to higher education. First, it explains how moral intuitions about fair funding can challenge the claim that higher education should be allocated as an entitlement or primary good. Second, its show how these intuitions are conventionally justified in terms of a distribution's effects on socioeconomic equality. Third, it argues that there are also liberty-based reasons for the public to fund higher education. Finally, it shows why these liberty-based reasons take on a special significance in the context of the right to higher education, warranting full public funding so long as two other distributive conditions (non-exclusivity and support for diverse conceptions of the good) are satisfied.


In a developing country like Bangladesh, the Islamic banking system as a whole has a vital role to play in the process of economic development. The study concentrates on "Prospect of Islamic Banking in Bangladesh". The paper places emphasis mainly on analyzing the performance of Islamic banks, and it also identifies some problems & opportunities and provides some suggestions. It even tries to provide some information about future performance. The study also notes that there is a high demand for interest-free banking services from a segment of people in Bangladesh who have a strong desire to abide by the rules and principles set by the Shari'ah. Along with religious requirement, economic exigencies provide a new outlook on the role of banking in promoting investment productive activities, influencing distribution of income and adding stability to the economy. Moreover, conventional banks offering Islamic banking as a parallel service are to add to their profitability, by attracting people who value the Shariah based system by enjoying the advantages of the special treatments from the Central bank. According to the survey, suitable and supportive legal framework would facilitate better growth of this sector. For a continued expansion of the Islamic Banking system, however, a number of issues that pose serious problems for Islamic banks will need to be carefully addressed. This paper discusses and makes recommendations on the more pertinent of these issues.


Objective To investigate the effective of Fucoidan(FPS) on the secretion of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in human mesangial cells(HMC) which induced by growth factor β1 and to explore its mechanism of kidney protecting in chronic renal failure.Methods HMC were cultured in vitro with TGF-β1,and treated with different concentration of FPS,and the cells were divided into 6 groups: model group(TGF-β1:4ng/ml),high-FPS group(TGF-β1:4ng/ml +FPS:100 ug/ml),medium-FPS group(TGF-β1:4ng/ml +FPS:50 ug/ml),low-FPS group(TGF-β1: 4 ng/ml +FPS:25 ug/ml),FPS control group(FPS:100 ug/ml)and blank control group.The level of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 protein expression was measured by ELISA,The level of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 mRNA expression was measured by Resltime-PCR.Results With the stimulation of TGF-β1,the expression of MMP-2 protein and mRNA was decreased significantly(P0.01),which then were increased by the treatment of FPS(P0.01),and showed dose dependent manner;the expression of TIMP-2 protein and mRNA was increased significantly(P0.01),which then were decreased by the treatment of FPS(P0.01),and showed dose dependent manner too.Compared with blank control group MMP-2 and TIMP-2 protein and mRNA expression in FPS-control group was not statistically significant(P0.05).Conclusion The disbananlance of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 in HMC may be induced by TGF-β1 and FPS can block the alteration.Thus,the accumulation of Extracelluar matrix(ECM) and glomerulosclerosis can be prevented.


The paper probes into the fashion ideas of Alfred Kroeber,a famous American anthropologist.He has a desire to explain cultural phenomena with scientific methods.He chooses the theme of fashion and tries to explore how it changes.In the paper On the Principle of Order in Civilization as Exemplified by Changes in Fashion,he uses the method of quantitative research to study the Western women's evening dress styles from 1844 to 1919.In the paper Three Centuries of Women's Dress Fashions: a Quantitative Analysis,Kroeber extends the range of the data to 300 years from 1787 to 1936.The research methods and results are classical for fashion research.


order to evaluate the efficacy of the antitussive agents, it is necessary to state the criteria by which the evaluations are made. Cough is both an objective and subjective phenomenon, and both of these aspects have been investigated. The scientific studies of antitussive agents may be grouped into several categories. Since not all of these agents have been studied under identical conditions, it is necessary to establish some priority as to the type of study most desirable to establish efficacy and relative potency. 1Iethods of study, which have been well reviewed by Nicolis,1 include:


ROSAT HRI observations of 3C 273 reveal X-ray emission all along the optically visible jet with the peak of emission at the inner end. Whereas the X-ray emission from the innermost knot A is consistent with a continuation of the radio-to-optical synchrotron continuum, a second population of particles with higher maximum energy has to be invoked to explain the X-ray emission from knots B, C and D in terms of synchrotron radiation. Inverse Compton emission could account for the X-ray flux from the hot spot. We detect a faint X-ray halo with a characteristic scale of 29 kpc and particle density on the order of 6 x 10^4 m^-3, higher than previously thought.


The photopolymerization of vinyl chloride (VC) with benzyl N,N-diethyldithiocarbamate (BDC) or p-xylylene bis(N,N-diethyldithiocarbamate) (XDC) was carried out in 1,2-dichloroethane at 30 °C. From the 1H NMR spectra, these poly(vinyl chloride)s (PVC) were found to contain mono- or di-functional polymers which can be used for synthesizing the AB type or ABA type block copolymers, respectively. The photocopolymerization of the mono-functional PVC with styrene (St) or vinyl acetate (VAc) was carried out in cyclohexanone at 30 °C. The obtained copolymers were the AB type block copolymers of VC with St or VAc. The photocopolymerization of the di-functional PVC with St in cyclohexanone at 30 °C gave an ABA type block copolymer of VC and St.


The diagnosis of haemophilia A (HA) is usually suspected based on the family history and/or the patient's presentation with spontaneous/traumatic bleedings and confirmed with functional and molecular laboratory testing. The technology for the molecular diagnosis of HA has improved significantly since the first report of the whole human factor VIII gene (F8) sequencing in 1984.1 Molecular testing for severe HA (SHA) generally first focuses on introns 1 and 22 inversions as those two genetic variants are responsible for about 50% of SHA.2 Failing to make a molecular diagnosis with those two inversions, one has to sequence the 26 exons of F8 and their flanking regions. The recent introduction of next-generation sequencing (NGS) has made possible efficient whole gene sequencing of F8 and has allowed the identification of most exonic and intronic mutations responsible for HA.3 Herein, we report the somewhat unique experience of having been consulted sporadically over two decades for the diagnosis of a HA female carrier who eventually proved to have a rare F8 large deletion. The techniques that we have sequentially used over the years when the propositus came back to us sporadically is probably representative of the evolution of the molecular diagnosis of HA carriers in most haemophilia treatment centres over that historical period of time. The purpose of this letter is to candidly share our experience with clinicians involved in the diagnosis of HA carriers with an unusual F8 mutation. The propositus was a 30-year-old woman in 1998 when she was seen at CHU Sainte-Justine for investigation as a potential SHA carrier (Individual III.2, Figure 1). She had no personal bleeding history, but her brother (Individual III.1, Figure 1) had died of trauma-related (fall in a staircase) cerebral haemorrhage in 1982 at age 21, several years after having been diagnosed with SHA complicated by a FVIII inhibitor. He was a bright university student with no dysmorphism likely to be associated with a genetic syndrome. Her maternal grandfather (Individual I.1, Figure 1) had also suffered from SHA and died of trauma-related (fall from his saddle-horse) cerebral haemorrhage at age 32. Laboratory tests showed for the propositus a normal


Introduction: Obesity related hypertension has been appearing as a challenging health problem for years all over the world. For this reason, it has been underlined. That medical treatment methods should be combined with physical exercises. Recent studies show that aerobic exercises such as cycling, jogging assist weight loss in obese patients, which will lead the success of the medical treatment of hypertension. Material and methods: In the search for scientific literature related to this review the US National Library of Medicine (PubMed) used MEDLINE and Sport discuss data and the terms 'aerobic exercise', 'hypertension', 'physical exercise' and 'obesity' were used. The relevant literature has also taken its source from the research of relevant articles from reference lists derived from data studies. Result: Physical exercise, especially aerobic exercise has a significant role both in the treatment and prevention periods of obesity-related hypertension. In this sense, since aerobic exercises have been reported to provide benefits, it becomes a much more effective method in the treatment of hypertension, when the medical treatments of hypertension patients are combined with aerobic exercise programs. Discussion: The regular exercise habits should also be taken into account as an effective method in the treatment of hypertension by taking care of the intensity and duration of the exercise to be applied should be considered in exercise planning.


This article presents a method to obtain a enhanced frequency resolution two-phase lock-in amplifier (LIA) with two channels in a microcontroller using minimum external circuitry. The timer peripheral of the microcontroller was used to generate the square wave signals for both the excitation and the quadrant demodulation, simplifying the waveform synthesis when compared to the use of digital-to-analog converters (DACs). To improve the frequency resolution of the generated signals, the timer signal was dithered to achieve fractional frequency values, while demodulation was executed in real time with signal acquisition. The real and imaginary parts of the signal are then transmitted to the computer by the universal serial bus (USB) interface while the computer sends commands to change the frequency, phase, or control other features. As proof of work, quartz tuning fork (QTF) sensors were measured due to its high $Q$ -factor. The bandwidth of the lock-in was limited by the acquisition and demodulation sample rate of 300 Ks/s, while we showed 1000 times frequency resolution enhancement when compared to the not dithered signal generation. This approach can be applied in embedded design to measure frequency-dependent sensors with high $Q$ , in scientific instrumentation such as scanning probe microscopes (SPMs), or even for educational purposes to teach the working principle of the LIAs.


The water transmission and distribution process of the water supply pump station of the water purification plant plays a key role in the entire urban water supply system. When the requirements of water supply quantity and water pressure are satisfied, the reduction of operating energy consumption of the pump set and improvement of its service life are urgent problems. Therefore, to reduce the cost of water supply pump station, a mathematical model is established to minimize the energy consumption of pump group, the number of pump switches and the load balancing in this paper. In order to solve the pump scheduling problem, a two-stage strategy based on genetic algorithm is proposed. In stage one, the frequency conversion ratio and the number of pumps needed to be turned on at the lowest energy consumption are calculated. In stage two, through the improved genetic algorithm and iterative way to reduce the number of pump switches and load balancing. Finally, a case study from a real waterworks in Suzhou, China is used to verify the validity of the proposed model. Numerical results reveal that the improved genetic algorithm outperforms the competing algorithms. In addition, a proper sensitivity analysis allows assessing the effects under different pump operating conditions.


*Department of Soil and Water Science, University of Arizona, Tucson ~USDA-ARS, NRI, Hydrology Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland ¢School of Renewable Natural Resources, University of Arizona, Tucson ~USDA-ARS, U.S. Water Conservation Laboratory, Phoenix Roughness length (z o) and displacement height (do) parameters are required in most algorithms that use remotely sensed data to estimate sensible heat and latent heat fluxes at the earth's surface. Estimates of aerodynamic roughness parameters often have large uncertainties, particularly for sparsely-roughened surfaces, such as agricultural row crops early in the growing season. The pur- pose of this study was to use wind profile data collected at four levels under near-neutral condi- tions to estimate z o and d o for small cotton plants (mean plant height ~ 0.31 m) growing on 0.16 m high soil ridges in Arizona. Four 24-min periods with near-neutral conditions and wind direction perpendicular to the rows were identified over two days in June 1988. From these periods, a mean z o = 0.02 m and a mean d o = 0.23 m were deter- mined. Relative to total obstacle height (h = plant height + ridge height), these values correspond to z o / h = 0.04, and d o / h = 0.50, which differ con- siderably from previously published values for par- tial canopy cotton.


In this research; it is aimed to determine whether the young generation expressed as "Digital Native" has new age beliefs, to analyse these beliefs in terms of socio-demographic variables, to present the psycho-social reasons behind these beliefs and to contribute to the literature.  In this research, mixed research method was used. While in-depth interview technique was used from qualitative techniques, survey technique was used from quantitative techniques The population of the study consists of students who have the characteristics of "Digital Native" and continue their education at high school level in 5 different types. In this context, a total of 206 students were identified as the research sample. The main data sources of the research are the participant information form including the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants and the "New Age Beliefs Scale" developed by Kaya and Mevlüt. The data obtained in the study were analysed using SPSS 25. In the analyses, firstly, the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants and then the levels of "New Age Beliefs" were determined. In addition, in order to determine whether the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants create a significant difference with the levels of "New Age Beliefs", frequency distributions, percentage and mean score values were determined and T test and Anova analyses were performed. In addition to these quantitative data, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 participants. In-depth interviews were recorded and then transcribed and written down. All the data obtained were interpreted together and included in the research. As a result of the research, it was found that "Digital Native" participants had moderate levels of "New Age Beliefs". However, among the sub-dimensions of "New Age Beliefs"; "Old Folk Beliefs and Predicting the Future" sub-dimension scores were found to be low, while "Spiritism and Psychic Powers" and "Healing Objects and Methods" sub-dimensions scores were found to be high. In the study, it was observed that "New Age Beliefs" made a difference in terms of socio-demographic variables; school type and the place where they spent most of their lives.


AbstractSide orifices are used to divide and adjust flow into aeration ponds, sedimentation reservoirs, flocculation units, and other hydraulic and environmental areas. In this study, the discharge...


How many different calcium channels does it take to make a nervous system? The answer: more than any of us predicted. In 1975 Hagiwara and colleagues published the first evidence that functionally different calcium channels are expressed in cells 1. By 1999, the calcium channel family could boast ten members, each member defined by a unique set of attributes to support their cellular functions and by unique amino acid sequences 2. Although nine of these genes are expressed in the nervous system, that number still seemed insufficient to support the wide spectrum of neuronal functions controlled by voltage-gated calcium channels. This discrepancy is probably explained by alternative pre-messenger RNA splicing which substantially expands the number of protein activities available from a limited number of genes. Like many other ion channel genes, each CaVa1 gene has the capacity to generate perhaps thousands of unique splice isoforms with unique functional properties 3. The high level of conservation among alternatively spliced exons in CaV2.2 genes of different species and in some cases closely related genes implies biological importance. A number of CaVa1 isoforms have been identified from neural tissue but until recently we lacked direct evidence linking a specific splice site in a calcium channel gene to a specific function in an identified neuron population.


Several studies revealed that the ethanolic extract, cream, and loose powder of Bawang Dayak bulbs (Eleutherine bulbosa (Mill.) Urb.) are effective in inhibiting the growth of different acne-causing bacteria, including S. aureus, S. epidermidis, and P. acne. Several product series have also been developed using the plant for the treatment of acne-prone skin. Therefore, this study aims to carry out a primary irritation test of E. bulbosa loose powder using the patch test method on rabbits and humans to determine its safety before it is marketed. The results showed that the primary irritation index of E.bulbosa loose powder on rabbits was 0.125, which was classified in the negligible category, and there were no signs of erythema or edema in humans. This indicates that it does not cause irritation and has the potential to be developed into anti-acne products.


Hop-constrained flows and their duals, moving cuts, are two fundamental quantities in network optimization. Up to poly-logarithmic factors, they characterize how quickly a network can accomplish numerous distributed primitives. In this work, we give the first efficient algorithms for computing (1 ± ǫ)-optimal h-hop-constrained flows and moving cuts with high probability. Our algorithms take Õ(m · poly(h)) sequential time, Õ(poly(h)) parallel time and Õ(poly(h)) distributed CONGEST time. We use these algorithms to efficiently compute hop-constrained cutmatches, an object at the heart of recent advances in expander decompositions. ∗First two authors supported in part by NSF grants CCF-1527110, CCF-1618280, CCF-1814603, CCF-1910588, NSF CAREER award CCF1750808, a Sloan Research Fellowship, funding from the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (ERC grant agreement 949272) and the Swiss National Foundation (project grant 200021-184735). Second author also supported by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research under award number FA9550-20-1-0080.


Tidal asymmetry is one of the main factors for generating net transport for waterborne materials in tidal estuaries, and thus, this phenomenon has significant influences on controlling morphological development and the ecological environment. Tidal propagation is sensitive to changes in the coastline and geometry of estuarine regions. Moreover, tidal waveforms vary with various factors, such as coastline changes and bathymetry evolution due to local anthropogenic activities. The topography of Lingding Bay (LDB) of the Pearl River Estuary (PRE) has greatly changed since the 1960s because of human interventions, but the response of tidal duration asymmetry (TDA) to morphological changes is still poorly understood. Utilizing the two-dimensional Delft-3D flexible mesh numerical model, the spatial pattern of TDA and its primary contributors in LDB of the PRE were reproduced for 1964, 1989, and 2016, accounting for the changes in both shoreline and bathymetry owing to human interventions. The results reveal that as the tidal wave propagates upstream, the tidal skewness increases from negative values to positive values longitudinally, indicating the transition from a shorter ebb-duration state to a shorter flood-duration state. Additionally, a prominent shift in TDA and its primary contributors takes place approximately in the period of 1989. In 1964-1989, the tidal skewness increased by at least 0.1 throughout the LDB, indicating that the flood duration of the entire bay was shortened significantly. However, in 1989-2016, the tidal skewness decreased by at most 0.15 throughout the LDB, representing a longer flood duration in the entire LDB. The scenario simulations reveal that reclamation-induced shoreline changes control the increase in TDA and its primary contributors by enhancing width convergence of estuary in the period of 1964-1989. Conversely, the increase in water depth plays a vital role in the decrease of TDA in the period of 1989-2016. The results obtained from this study are particularly useful for understanding the controlled factors contributing to net sediment transport and the associated long-term morphological evolution in estuaries heavily impacted by human interventions.


Recently, association rules have been used to generate prooles of \normal" behavior for anomaly detection. However, the time factor (especially in terms of multiple time granularities) has not been studied extensively in generation of these prooles. In reality, user behavior during diierent time periods (in terms of time granularities) may be very diierent. For example, the \normal" number and duration of FTP connections may vary from working hour to midnight, from business day to weekend or holiday. Furthermore, these variations may depend on the day of the month or the week. This paper proposes to build prooles using temporal association rules in terms of multiple time granularities, and describes algorithms to discover these prooles. Because multiple time granularities are used for the proole generation, the proposed method is more exible and precise than previous methods that use xed division of time periods. Finally, the paper describes an experiment and its analysis on real TCP-dump data.


Abstract A thick sheet analysis of deformation is used to simulate the process of plug-assist forming. The formulation is based on the total Lagrangian description and the equations are solved by the finite element method. The results are in agreement with experimental data available in the literature for sheet thickness distribution and plug force required as a function of deflection. The analysis provides the complete stress and strain fields and may be used to locate regions where fracture may initiate.


This article explores a number of questions about visions of the future and their implications for environmental education (EE). If the future were known, what kind of actions would be needed to maintain the positive aspects and reverse the negative ones? How could these actions be translated into the aims of EE? Three future scenarios are discussed: the limits to growth (the great tragedy and demise); sustainable development and ecological modernization (hope and innovation); and the Anthropocene park. These scenarios are linked to corresponding EE/ESD approaches and instrumentalism in education is argued as a morally justifiable goal. Finally, education for deep ecology is advocated in order to address the ethical implications of the last scenario.


bstrAct Introduction: A cutaneous adverse drug reaction (CADR) is defined as any undesirable cutaneous clinical manifestation resulting from administration of a particular drug. The CADRs are a common problem in our country and can range from simple rash to severe reactions. Early recognition of CADRs enables early identification and withdrawal of offending drugs, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality. This article is a review of the patterns of presentation of CADR and common causative drugs in our country. Materials and methods: Literature search was performed across PubMed Central and Google Scholar search engine using key words like adverse cutaneous drug reaction, adverse cutaneous drug reaction, India, and articles selected. Results: The most common drug groups causing CADR in our country are antimicrobials, anticonvulsants and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and antigout agents. Common presentations of CADR are in the form of exanthematous skin eruptions, urticaria, fixed drug eruption (FDE), contact dermatitis, angioedema, Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and various morphologic permutations and combinations. Conclusion: A CADR is a common problem and an economic burden to our healthcare. The presentation of CADR and the drugs causing CADR have a geographic variation in our country. Understanding common causative drugs, the presentation of CADR can help in early diagnosis, identification, and withdrawal of the culprit drug resulting in early recovery and preventing complications of CADR.


We analyze generalized Finite Element Methods for the numerical solution of elliptic problems with coefficients or geometries which are oscillating at a small length scale ɛ. Two-scale elliptic regularity results which are uniform in ɛ are presented. Two-scale FE spaces are introduced with error estimates that are uniform in ɛ. They resolve the ɛ scale of the solution with work independent of ɛ and without analytical homogenizations. Numerical experiments confirming the theory are presented.


This study was conducted to determine the quality and safety of raw goat milk in Lower Southern Thailand during August to September 2008. Milk samples were collected from five farms in Songkhla, Yala, and Pattani Province of which the pH, acidity, specific gravity, milk fat, solid not fat, total solid, total plate count, Coliform count, and antibiotic residue were tested. The results did not show any significant difference (p>0.05) on pH and total plate count among samples from each farm. However, acidity, specific gravity, milk fat, solid not fat, and total solid varied between farms depending on feed supply and management. Means of total bacteria count and Coliform count of most samples were in TACF standard quality (log 3.720 cfu/ml and log 1.892 cfu/ml, respectively), except four samples had higher Coliform contamination. Additionally, a higher proportion (22.7 %) of samples with antibiotic residue was found.


The poor bioavailability of ophthalmic solutions caused by dilution and drainage from the eye can be overcome by
using In situ forming ophthalmic drug delivery system prepared from polymer that exhibit reversible liquid–gel
phase transition. The objective of the study was to develop optimized formulation of in situ ophthalmic gel of Sodium
cromoglycate, anti-allergic drug, using ion activated polymer, gelrite (gellan gum) as a gelling polymer and HPMC
E-15LV (hydroxyl propyl methyl cellulose) as release retardant. The 32 full factorial design was employed to
optimize the formulation considering Gelrite and HPMC as independent variables. The formulations were assessed
for appearance, gelling ability, sterility, pH, drug content, viscosity, rheology, release through cellophane
membrane & corneal membrane of goat, ocular irritation study & stability study as per ICH guidelines.
Formulations F4 and F8 were selected and again analysed by grid analysis and F4 was found to be the best
formulation from the nine formulation developed by 32 factorial design. The study revealed that the In situ system of
sodium cromoglycate sustained the effect of drug to 12 hours. The formulation F4 extended the release of drug upto
12 hours as compare to marketed preparation of sodium cromoglycate, Cromal(solution), which gives 98.11% drug
release within 6 hours.


Although epi-splines are structurally related to 'classical' splines but rather than interpolation tools they are primordially approximation tools. This allows them to accommodate more easily a richer class of information about the function, or system, that we are trying to approximate yielding in some instances stunning results. The theory that supports their properties is to a large extent anchored in the up-to-date version of Variational Analysis and implementations rely almost always on the availability of optimization routines that have been so successfully developed in the last half century. Exponential epi-spline are composition of the exponential function with an epi-spline and are particularly well suited to specific types of applications.'