Tropospheric ozone (O 3 ) causes significant disruption of growth and yield in upland and Pima cottons. Pima cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.) was exposed to brief pulses (0.75 h) of a range of O 3 concentrations (nominally 0.0, 0.2, 0.5, and 0.8 μl l -1 ) to investigate effects on phloem translocation of 14 C-labelled recent photo-assimilate. The initial phase of rapid efflux from source leaves was monitored with a Geiger-Muller Tube as activity remaining in the leaf as a function of time. Visual inspection of unprocessed efflux curves revealed disruption of efflux by O 3 . Single exponential decay functions were fitted to these efflux curves to extract first order rate constants for phloem loading and longitudinal transport of labelled carbohydrates. A single compartment model was applied, with and without an asymptote of non-transported carbohydrate, to calculate leaf sugar contents. The effect of O 3 in retarding efflux of label, decreasing the rate constant, and increasing calculated soluble sugar pools, was consistent regardless of the method of analysis. Following incorporation of the asymptote, calculated rate constants and sugar pools were similar to values from the literature and to preliminary measurements of sugar contents in O 3 -treated cotton leaves. Total carbohydrate transported from source leaves was reduced both by O 3 effects on assimilation (up to 20%) and by O 3 effects on efflux (up to 70%), but was clearly dominated by the impact on phloem translocation. These rapid efflux kinetics likely reflect oxidant damage at the plasmalemma or plasmodesmata of mesophyll or phloem companion cells. Evaluation of effects of O 3 on tonoplast function and consequences for carbohydrate translocation await a more complete compartmental efflux analysis.


Simple pulmonary function tests such as vital capacity, maximum breathing capacity, and tidal volume can be used in any general hospital to aid in diagnosis and treatment of both medical and surgical conditions. Application of the tests in three different situations is described: differentiation of restrictive and obstructive types of pulmonary disease, preoperative evaluation, and n special bronchoscopic study.


1. Introduction 2. Foundations of Consumer Choice Theory for Environmental Valuation in View of Georgescu-Roegen's Contribution 3. Conditions for Balanced Sustained Growth of the Open Leontief Dynamic Model and Investigation on a Leontief Dynamic Model with Two Delays 4. Information, Pseudo Measures and Entropy: An Elaboration on Georgescu-Roegen's Critique 5. A Critical Appraisal of Two Entropy Theoretical Approaches to Resources and Environmental Problems: Georgescu-roegen and Tsuchida 6. Embodied Energy Analysis, Sraffa's Analysis, Georgescu-Roegen's Flow-Fund Model and Viability of Solar Technology 7. Land: Achille's Heel of Ecology and Economy 8. Environment and North-South Trade: Another View 9. Modelling Relation, Hierarchical Systems, and Bioeconomic Approach to Sustainability Issues


The present article aims to study the nature of the Interest on Equity (Juros sobre o Capital Próprio – IOE) for the purpose of application of Double Tax Treaties (DTTs) signed by Brazil. The IOE is known for carrying characteristics both of distributed profits as of interest. RDTA 45 IBDT | INSTITUTO BRASILEIRO DE DIREITO TRIBUTÁRIO Revista Direito Tributário Atual Current Issues of Tax Law Review ISSN: 1415-8124 /e-ISSN: 2595-6280 762 CASTRO, Vitor Manuel Franciulli de Lima. Juros sobre o Capital Próprio: Natureza do Rendimento à Luz dos Acordos para evitar a Dupla Tributação. Revista Direito Tributário Atual, n.45. p.761-789. São Paulo: IBDT, 2o semestre 2020. Quadrimestral Given the schedular structure of these treaties, the hybrid nature of this type of income turns up into a challenge of qualification inside their provisions. This is the issue that this work faces. To this end, the nature of the IOE for purposes of internal and international tax law, with attention being given to the OECD Model and its influence over the Brazilian international tax policy. At last, a framework exercise of this kind of income is carried out in the pro-visions of each DTT signed by Brazil; taking into account confrontations of the issue held by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service and by national and foreign case-law.


Vibrationally excited O2+ ions were produced and injected into a helium flow tube and found to survive more than 105 collisions with He atoms without significant relaxation. The first, second, and higher vibrational states of O2+ were detected by their enhanced reactions with Xe, SO2, and H2O. Using these reactions as probes for vibrational excitation, the relaxation of O2+ (v=1) and O2+ (v=2) ions was studied for collisions with Ne, Ar, Kr, H2, D2, N2, CO, CO2, H2O, CH4, SO2, SF6, and O2. The resulting quenching rate constants were found to vary from 1(−9) to <2(−15) cm3 s−1. The quenching rate constant of O2+ (v=2) was approximately twice that of O2+ (v=1) in each case. The rate constants were found to correlate with the bond energy of the ion–molecule collision complex. For CO2, Kr, and O2, the energy dependence of the quenching rate constant was investigated in the range 0.04–0.3 eV. The results indicate that the relaxation process proceeds through a long‐lived complex where the vibrational excitation...


This study evaluated whether common self-report measures of television and game violence exposure represent reliable and valid measurement tools. Three self-report measures—direct estimates, user-rated favorites, and agency-rated favorites—were assessed in terms of test-retest reliability, criterion validity (their relationship with coded media diaries), and construct validity (their relationship with aggression and gender). A total of 238 adolescents participated in a two-wave survey and completed two media diaries. For game violence, the three self-report measures were reliable and valid. For television violence, only direct estimates achieved test-retest reliability and construct validity. Criterion validity could not be established for the television violence measures because the media diary was not a valid criterion for television violence. Our findings indicate that both direct estimates and favorites are valid measures for game violence, whereas for television violence, only direct estimates are valid. We conclude with a discussion about ways to further improve upon and reconceptualize media violence exposure measurement.


In this paper,based on the successive inventory data obtained in Mountainous region of Hebei Province, a regional forestry naturalness evaluation was proposed for natural composition index, biological diversity and degree of disturbance from human's activity. The corresponding indicator system and evaluation method were put forward. The weight values of evaluation indexes and the comprehensive quality index of forestry naturalness are calculated by using analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The status of forest vegetation in the mountainous region of Hebei Province was also looked into. Based on analysis of the results, the forest naturalness was evaluated.


Factors controlling widespread cratonic arch formation across western North America from the Early Paleozoic to the Middle Mesozoic remain poorly understood. While a number of causes, such as mantle hot spots, lithospheric contraction, mantle flow, and lithospheric flexure due to surface loading, have been suggested to explain the localized uplift of basement blocks on otherwise tectonically quiescent margins, a variety of mechanisms may be at work. Here, we test the hypothesis that seismically detected packages of discrete midcrustal igneous sheet intrusions impart rheological contrasts within the crust, which act as seeds for cratonic arch formation in the presence of weak intraplate compression, using finite element modeling of intraplate deformation. We find that the seismically resolved sills can generate significant surface uplift in the presence of modest strain rates over reasonable orogenic timescales. Cratonic arch formation would be enhanced in the presence of additional thin, seismically unresolvable sills. While midcrustal sheet intrusions may be just one of many factors influencing cratonic arch formation, their presence in northern Alberta, Canada, can help explain the asymmetric configuration of the well‐studied Peace River Arch.


ABSTRACT This article challenges the widely held view that in Chocolat/Chocolate (Denis, 1988) the female protagonist, named 'France', owns the point of view. It argues that the film rejects such an exclusive narrative mode, and invites the spectator to reinterpret the story through the perspectives of others, especially that of the house-boy Protée. Drawing on Freudian and Lacanian psychoanalytical theories, this article re-examines three key flashback scenes (the mirror scene, the shower scene, and the big box-office scene), taking Protée's vantage point, while engaging with the para-text of Sartre's, Oyono's and Denis' own postcolonial views. The article finally shows that the boy's point of view is as relevant as the little girl's.


An attempt was made to develop model for calculation of pol in cane from routinely analyzed juice quality parameters. Results showed that both brix reading and pol (%) of cane juice could significantly (P= 0.01) describe88.42 and 90.47 per cent variations, respectively in pol in cane and either of the two parameters could be effectively utilized for prediction of pol in cane. Second degree polynomial involving brix and fourth degree polynomial involving pol (%) was found to be most suitable for calculation of pol in cane. However, model developed from purity was not good fit which could describe only 22.99 per cent of total variations in pol in cane. Multiple linear modeling involving brix and pol (%) showed the tendency of over fitting of variables.


Big Data has been utilized on behalf of huge measure of information gathered through various implies as well as in different designs. Data Veracity eludes toward the vulnerability of accessible data which implies the nature of the gathered information can't be confident. This article gives an account of continuous research dependent on utilizing the Semantic Web innovation toward confirm client's keyed in information as well as increment steadfastness taking place Big Data. Approving, data cleansing as well as decreasing gathered information is the significant exercises needed toward upgrade the nature of the gathered data.


Participatory culture becomes one of the central issues
in the emerging of new media. New media provides space for
audience to interact and produce the content of media. In a view
of social engagement, participatory culture would increase the
engagement. When people have a role in a particular context,
they would engage more. In a context of preserving local culture
at Mpu Tantular Museum, the use of new media (CD Interaktif)
would enhance participatory culture from the visitors. As shown
in the survey result, users appraise the importance of CD
Interaktif to understand local culture. However, users
emphasized improvement on the element of learning
environment and involvement of users. By the usage of new
media, both become important to stimulate social engagement.
This paper also gives recommendation on how to preserve local
culture through new media.


This article discusses the prevention of sexual harassment through information services using the contextual teaching and learning approach. The research was conducted using quantitative method with experimental approach. This study population of high school students, whose samples were taken using cluster random sampling. Data were collected using a sexual harassment questionnaire as well as data analysis with Wilcoxon signed ranks test and a 't' test. After the research found that information service using contextual teaching and learning approach is effective in preventing teenage sexual abuse in high school. Teenagers from high school do sexual harassment as much as 27.37%. The most sexual abuse conducted by adolescents is verbal sexual abuse as much as 66.66%, visual as much as 62.69% and physical as much as 44.83%.


Poly(isobutylene-co-p-methylstyrene) (IB/p-MS) random copolymer is a new generation of polyisobutylene-based elastomers. The cationic copolymerization of IB with p-MS was thoroughly examined by using 2-chloro-2,4,4-trimethylpentane/ethylaluminiumsesquichloride/electron donor as initiating system. IB/p-MS random copolymers with high molecular weight were obtained at elevated temperature through the addition of ethyl acetate; the reaction proceeded in a mildly exothermic manner. Although the reactivity ratios of comonomer pairs differ by close to an order of magnitude, p-MS was uniformly distributed in the chains. IB/p-MS random copolymer can be brominated by adding molecular bromine into the copolymer solution, thereby yielding a completely saturated polymer backbone with a chemically reactive site. The types and selection of appropriate vulcanization systems for bromide-functionalized IB/p-MS random copolymers are also discussed. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry


Biofuels provide an attractive and sustainable energy option as they are considered to be clean fuels having 'very low to no sulphur' content. Biofuels therefore help in creating a positive environmental impact. Bioethanol is one such fuel that can be blended with gasoline. Typically and conventionally, bioethanol is extracted from sugars. Bioethanol can be produced at industrial scale through the sugar fermentation route. The bioethanol technology is termed as either first generation (1G) or second generation (2G) depending upon the origin of such sugars. While the 1G bioethanol technology uses starch as a source of sugar, the 2G bioethanol technology uses cellulose and hemicelluloses as a source of sugar. Starch required in 1G technology can be found in various feed stocks such as cereals (wheat, corn, sorghum barley, etc) and sugarcane. Feedstock such as wheat straw, corn, wood, agricultural residues or municipal solid waste are typically lingo-cellulosic materials and are used as a source of bioethanol in 2G technology. As compared to 1G technology, which use grain as feedstock, the 2G technologies use crop residues, a waste that otherwise would be of no value. This article provides an overview of the 2G bioethanol technology.


An investigation was done to know the warty layer structural difference in bordered pit of longitudinal tracheid in Pinus densiflora Sieb, et Zucc., Pinus koraiensis Sieb, et Zucc., Pinus rigida Mill. and Larix kaempferi Carr. grown in Korea. Among the four wood species, warty layer was found in bordered pit of longitudinal tracheid of Pinus densiflora Sieb. et Zucc. and Pinus rigida Mill. The mean height and horizontal diameter of warty layer was found highest in Pinus densiflora Sieb, et Zucc. The height of warty layer was found the highest in juvenile wood of Pinus densiflora Sieb. et Zucc. and it gradually decreased towards the matured wood.


A class of porous organic polymers (POPs), which are constructed by aryl–aryl linkages, has the wholly conjugated organic frameworks that can post-transform into two-dimensional graphenal polymers by the intramolecular dehydrogenation. However, typical examples are difficultly defined on the molecular sizes, numbers, and distributions of graphene subunits within the networks, thereby giving rise to uncertainty in applications. Here we report a dehydrogenation fusion of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) into graphenal polymers under solvent-free and ionothermal conditions, by which 5,6,11,12,17,18-hexaazatrinaphthylene (HATNA) is linked on itself to expand along the coplanar direction. During the reaction, the catalyst AlCl3 solids turn into the molten media to homogenize the reaction system, and alter the molecular configuration and reactivity of HATNA units, resulting in the formation of self-segregated nanosheets with the neighboring layers of the weakened π–π interaction. Besides, the obtained fr...


Abstract : This is Part 2 of a report-pair concerning application of the tensor product in solving large sets of simultaneous linear equations arising in finite element formulations of Numerical Weather Prediction problems. A rectangular region having a graded mesh with Dirichlet boundary conditions on all four edges is considered. Coefficient matrices are the mass matrix and the stiffness matrix of the finite element method. For the stiffness matrix, which appears in Poisson's equation, operation counts and storage requirements are compared with corresponding numbers for solutions by successive overrelaxation and Gaussian elimination. FORTRAN programs for implementation of the tensor proeuct formulations are given. (Author)


Abstract : Detailed analysis and experimental data presented in this report show that longitudinal groove designs are crucial to increase the heat transport capacity of miniature heat pipes. The steady state mathematical models of a miniature axially grooved heat pipe with micro grooves are developed where the importance of the interfacial phenomena at the surfaces of the ultra thin is emphasized. The predicted capillary and boiling limitations as well as thermal resistance are compared to detailed in-house experimental data on miniature and conventional axially grooved heat pipes. It is found that flat miniature heat pipes are easily capable of withstanding heat fluxes on the order of 100 W/sq cm at the evaporator wall. Advanced flat miniature heat pipes are suggested and modeled to further increase the maximum heat flux at the evaporator wall. Additional experiments carried out for the heat pipe evaporators with forced convection and heat fluxes in excess of 200 W/sq cm proved that capillary limitation is the limiting one for flat miniature heat pipes with micro grooves.


The last decades have been characterized by an alarming growth in urban development, mobility demand and vehicle usage. These facts in combination with other factors (e.g. urban planning) strongly constrain mobility in urban areas, namely by traffic and inefficient private/public transportation. These inefficiencies lead to traffic accidents, congestion, air pollution, noise pollution, increased energy consumption and the associated economic losses. A large amount of research has been carried out during the last decades to address the challenge of efficient urban mobility. However, there is still the consensus that no single measure can solve transport challenges and that a set of relevant measures is required to have a considerable impact on mobility. Additionally, improved energy economy and reduced emissions levels due to better mobility was less considered in the last decades. Thus, for a more efficient and greener urban mobility, several measures should be taken to enhance the performance of private and public transport. This thesis considers using Vehicular Networks for achieving efficient and sustainable mobility. More specifically, the goal of this thesis is to propose and evaluate Intelligent Transportation Systems enabled by vehicular communications that can improve urban mobility by more efficient vehicle usage (taxi-sharing), enhanced efficiency on road network utilization (virtual traffic lights, self-automated parking) and improved land use (self-automated parking). The first part of the thesis is devoted to the realistic and large-scale assessment of vehicular networks for studying the solution feasibility and to quantify the system performance under varying conditions. With this aim, we use simulation studies and empirical measurements as tools to study the proposed Intelligent Transportation Systems enabled by vehicular communications. Regarding simulation aspects, we present an integrated simulation platform, consisting of application, network, traffic and pollutant emissions models, that uses real-world data to accurately replicate movements and demand. With respect to empirical evaluations, large-scale field trial data is used to assess single-hop communication performance and the awareness level provided to applications. Experimental results demonstrate that link layer delivery and neighborhood awareness criterion can be fulfilled for safety applications and that the interference to far away nodes can be considerable. The second part of this thesis addresses the development and assessment of novel applications enabled by vehicular communications. The main goal is to propose and understand how the implementation of transportation systems (e.g. traffic control/management systems, ride-sharing) can lead to improved efficiency and better environmental performance. More specifically, we demonstrate that the Virtual Traffic Light system, a recently proposed infrastructureless traffic control system solely based on inter-vehicle communications and distributed control, can reduce CO2 emissions up to 18% by improving the traffic flow and by reducing the stop-and-go phenomena. In addition, we propose a distributed and dynamic taxi-sharing system enabled by cellular communications and widespread computation capabilities to provide a cost-efficient, door-to-door and flexible system, offering a quality of service similar to conventional taxis. Simulation results show that the implementation of this system provides advantages mainly in terms of reduced fares,


Utilization of dredged mud in land reclamation will become more applicable in the future due to the increase of the need for space and the rising cost of granular fill materials. Dredged mud mainly consists of soft clay and has very low bearing capacity and high compressibility. Therefore, soil improvement is urgently required. In this paper, the effectiveness of using dredged mud as the fill material in land reclamation was analyzed for a case study of land reclamation. The performance of several soil improvement methods in using such reclamation material was calculated and compared. The soil improvement methods considered in this study were prefabricated vertical drain (PVD) with vacuum preloading, cement mixed dredged mud, and rigid inclusion. The load transfer mechanism in each method was analyzed using analytical and numerical methods. In addition, an elementary cost analysis was performed to compare the cost of the methods based on Indonesian prices. It was found that for the considered case study, cement mixing achieved the highest bearing capacity with the shortest time but with the highest cost. For the same increase in bearing capacity, PVD with vacuum preloading provided the lowest cost. This study provides a preliminary step towards the implementation of effective soil improvement for land reclamation in Indonesia.


The histories of Tijuana and Hollywood have long been deeply intertwined, leading critics to argue that American cinema was instrumental in constructing the city's reputation as a dark, seedy and amoral space. However, the 1957 film The Tijuana Story presents a clear contradiction between the way in which it is marketed to evoke the "black legend" of Tijuana and its socially conscious content, tracing the real life story of a Tijuanan journalist who was murdered for taking a stand against crime and corruption. Close analysis of The Tijuana Story's paradoxical representation of the city provides a more detailed understanding of Hollywood's relationship with Tijuana and offers a way of discussing the city without reducing it to any one singular mythology. As part of a larger body of films that use images of Mexico to explore left-wing and liberal politics, The Tijuana Story provides further evidence of the persistent connection between Mexico and social revolution in American cinema.


Abstract : This report is an extension of the authors' earlier resistance-to-ground experiments. Here they supply additional information on the influence of salt-treated backfills around grounding electrodes for reducing resistance to ground. The results are based on observations made over several seasons of freezing and thawing at sites selected for their variations in grain size, ice content, and ground temperature. More than 20 test electrodes were monitored at two silt sites and one alluvial site. The diameter of the backfilled zones, the salt content, and the backfill material were varied for the electrode installations. In all cases salt backfilling reduced the resistance to ground, with 175 ohms being the lowest value obtained. Reductions varied from very small to an order of magnitude. Resistance also decreased over several seasons. Generally the greatest improvement and lowest values were obtained in the perennially frozen silt in interior Alaska. Data from colder silt suggest that salt backfilling will not be effective in arctic settings. Measurements at a partially thawed, coarse-grained site indicate that salt was moving much more rapidly (approximately give times as fast) away from the treated backfill than at the silt site in the CRREL permafrost tunnel. (Author)


As the demand for hydrocarbons increases, the oil companies are forced to start oil and gas exploration in complicated and remote fields. When drilling such environment, the requirement for safety, ...


Recent advances in materials science and structural design have changed electronic applications from being bulky and rigid objects to small and soft products that have emerged for a wide range of applications, especially human-related products for which mechanical adoption is the key requirement. A typical stretchable application consists of small-sized, rigid IC-chips and passive components interconnected by conductive tracks on soft substrates. The early failure of such devices initiates from the rigid-soft interface due to the accumulation of stress. Therefore, special attention is needed to reduce the strain concentration at the interface. In this paper, stretchable interconnects were fabricated using a screen-printing method and surface mounted devices (SMDs) were bonded using an isotropic conductive adhesive. By partially removing material from the substrate in areas a little way from the rigid components, the stiffness is locally reduced, and this leads to an increase in the local stiffness around the SMDs and hence shields the soft-rigid interface against the stress. Materials can be removed by two different patterns. A finite element analysis and experimental data show 11%–19% improvements in single pull-up tests for the modified samples. This approach makes the electromechanical behaviour independent of encapsulation properties.


A synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging system usually produces pairs of bright area and dark area when depicting the ground objects, such as a building or tree and its shadow. Many buildings (trees) are aggregated together to form urban areas (forests). It means that the pairs of bright and dark areas often exist in the aggregated scenes. Conventional unsupervised segmentation approaches usually segment the scenes (e.g., urban areas and forests) into different regions simply according to the gray values of the image. However, a more convincing way is to regard them as the consistent regions. In this paper, we aim at addressing this issue and propose a new SAR image segmentation approach via a hierarchical visual semantic and adaptive neighborhood multinomial latent model. In this approach, the hierarchical visual semantic of SAR images is proposed, which divides SAR images into aggregated, structural, and homogeneous regions. Based on the division, different segmentation methods are chosen for these regions with different characteristics. For the aggregated region, locality-constrained linear coding-based hierarchical clustering is used for segmentation. For the structural region, visual semantic rules are designed for line object location, and a geometric structure window-based multinomial latent model is proposed for segmentation. For the homogeneous region, a multinomial latent model with adaptive window selection is proposed for segmentation. Finally, these results are integrated together to obtain the final segmentation. Experiments on both synthetic and real SAR images indicate that the proposed method achieves promising performances in terms of the consistencies of the regions and the preservations of the edges and line objects.


To provide a device and method for measuring the power of the wideband received signal including a narrowband interference signal in a mobile communication system. Interference removal unit removes narrowband interference signals from the broadband receiving signals through a filter. Power compensator, the narrowband interference signal is removed, to calculate a compensation value for compensating a received signal at least a portion has been removed. Received power measurement unit, the power of the received signal received from the interference removing unit is measured, the measurement error of the power measured generated by at least one portion which has been removed, after compensating using a compensation value, the compensation and it outputs the wideband received signal having a power that is.


Different from the goaf formed by normal mining, the goaf formed by the continuous caving of the lower illegal goafs is extremely irregular and unstable, which leads to the difference in the goaf caving characteristics. Taking the complex irregular goaf of the Shirengou Iron Mine in China as the research object, the 3D laser scanning technology is used to detect the goaf shape and analyze the cause of the formation. Then, the caving characteristics of the goaf are analyzed by the methods of the numerical simulation, the monitoring of the crash of the caving rock, and the monitoring of the deformation of the arch foot. The simulation results show that the transverse expansion of the irregular goaf boundary is mainly along the perpendicular to the direction of the ore body strike when the goaf caves upward in the initial stage. Additionally, the monitoring results show that the caving characteristics can be divided into two stages: the paroxysmal caving stage and the periodicity caving stage. The paroxysmal caving characteristics are intense and irregular, while the periodicity caving characteristics have obvious periodicity, which is mainly reflected in the periodic alternation between the mass caving and the temporary stability. The interval period of the goaf mass caving is about 15–30 days and is changed by the progress of filling treatment. The conclusions in this work reveal the particularity of the caving characteristics in the complex irregular goaf and contribute to the improvement of the caving characteristics and the prediction of mass caving.


Out of 747 patients who underwent gastrectomy, suture failure of oesophagoentric anastomoses was observed in 32 (4,28%) patients. In 245 patients esophageal-intestinal anastomoses was applied using suturing devices, anostomotic failure was observed in 31 (5,3%) patients. This complication developed as early (3-5 days after sugery) and late term (9-11 days). With the development of anastomosis failure of patients in the early stages relaparatomy was performed with drainage of the abdominal cavity. With the development of this complication in the later stages patients underwent conventional conservative therapy. Out of the 13 patients with suture failure this tactic has proven effective in only 2 patients.


One of the largest challenges in teaching introductory soil science is explaining the dynamics of soil infiltration. To aid stu dents in understanding the concept and to further engage them in active learning in the soils laboratory course, we developed an exercise using Decagon Mini-Disk Infiltrometers with a tension head (h o ) of 2 cm. Groups of up to four students measured cumulative infiltration for up to 5 minutes and plotted their results vs. time (t). Curves for each group were plotted using SigmaPlot through a computer-projection system so that students could observe infiltration differences between different soils. With the help of their lab instructors, regression analyses were completed to obtain curve-fitting parameters needed to calculate hydraulic conductivity (K). Upon completion of data analyses, the students worked cooperatively to answer several questions concerning infiltration physics. Based on student comments, we believe that we successfully engaged the students and increased their exposure and understanding of infiltration dynamics.


The paper describes the Galatia meteorite found August 1971 approximately 7 km ENE of Galatia, Barton County, Kansas (98 deg 53 min W, 38 deg 39.5 min N). The single stone weighed 23.9 kg and is partially weathered. Olivine (Fa 24.9) and pyroxene (Fs 20.9) compositions indicate L-group classification, and textural observations indicate that the stone is of petrologic type 6. While Galatia is similar in many respects to the Otis L6 chondrite found 20 miles to the west, Galatia does not have the brecciated structure of Otis and is therefore not part of the same fall.


Sheath blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani is categorized as the one of the most serious disease that effects the rice production which has widely established in many areas cultivation rice in Malaysia. The effective of Trichoderma was tested towards inoculated rice with R. solani which is the causal agent of disease severity. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to conduct pathogenicity test of R. solani of sheath blight disease on rice and to determine the performance of Trichoderma spp. for measurement against R. solani. Rice was growth under normal condition until reach maximum tillering and was conducted to pathogenicity test by using conidial suspension method. After that, suspension of Trichoderma was used as biological control agent. Disease severity was observed and recorded for 6 days in order to observe the difference of application using Trichoderma spp. All five isolates showed the disease severity after six days of inoculation with isolate SB 01 and SB 04 has 95% and 90% which is the highest score. Meanwhile, after the application of Trichoderma, isolate SB 01 and SB 04 has 50% and 30% score which is the highest score. As conclusion, by using Trichoderma spp. as biological control can be decreased the disease severity of sheath blight disease which causes by Rhizoctonia solani as pathogenic agent.


Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS), also known as Brachmann−de Lange syndrome, is a syndrome of multiple congenital anomalies of variable severity. This rare syndrome is genetically heterogeneous and sporadic, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 10,000 to 30,000. First described by Cornelia de Lange as a diagnostic entity in 1933, Vrolik and Brachmann reported isolated cases in severely affected infants between 1849 and 1916. The syndrome is best characterized by distinctive facial appearance, prenatal and postnatal growth deficiency, psychomotor delay, and upper limb malformations. Although almost all organ systems can be affected, individuals with CdLS most notably display deficits in the development of neurosensory, craniofacial, musculoskeletal, cardiac and gastrointestinal systems. There is no known cure but the syndrome can be managed by treating associated clinical symptoms. Sixty six percent of CdLS individuals die before the first year of life1. Mortality occurs primarily from aspiration in infancy and from infection and bowel obstruction there after1.


In the first decade of mercury mining in Idrija the ore was roasted in piles. After that the ore was roasted for 150 years, until 1652, in earthen vessels at various sites in the woods around Idrija. Up to present 21 localities of ancient roasting sites were established. From the roasting areas Frbejžene trate, lying on a wide dolomitic terrace on the left side of the road from Idrija to Čekovnik, 3 soil profiles are discussed. In ali three profiles in the upper, organic matter rich soil horizon very high mercury contents (from 3 to 4,000 mg/kg) were found. In two profiles the contents rapidly decrease with depth, to about 10-times lower values already at 0.5 m. Below that, the mercury contents decrease slowly, to reach at the 1.3 m depth a few mg/kg metal. In the third profile the upper humic layer is followed downward by an additional humic layer containing very abundant pottery fragments. In this layer the maximum mercury contents were determined, 7.474 mg/kg Hg. The underlying loamy soil contains between 1000 and 2000 mg/kg mercury. Pšenk is one of the larger localities of roasting vessels fragments. It is located at Lačna voda brook below Hlevše, above its confluence with the


Aim: To examine vestibular system functions in children with episodic vertigo attacks. Methods: Thirty four children (20 males) aged 4–18 years with paroxysmal dizziness and/or vertigo attacks were evaluated. A medical history for vestibular symptoms and migraine was taken. Vestibular and auditory functions were assessed. Results: Chronic headache attacks consistent with migraine were reported in 12 children and motion sickness was reported in 30. Family history in first degree relatives was positive for migraine in 29 children and for episodic vertigo in 22. Electronystagmography and videonystagmography showed two types of nystagmus: spontaneous vestibular nystagmus (41%) and benign paroxysmal positional nystagmus (BPPN) (59%). The first type of nystagmus was assessed as a sign of vestibulopathy and the patients with BPPN were diagnosed as having benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Audiometric examination in four cases revealed bilateral sensory neural hearing loss in low frequencies. Pure tone averages in 30 cases were within normal ranges; however low frequencies in 28 of them were approximately 10 dB lower than high frequencies. Unilateral caloric responses diminished in eight children. Conclusions: Peripheral vestibular problems in childhood present in a wide spectrum, which varies from a short episode of dizziness to a typical vestibular attack with fluctuating sensory neural hearing loss or episodes of BPPV. A considerable number of these vestibular problems might be related to the migraine syndrome.


Nitrogenase catalyzes not only the reduction of N2 to NH3 but also the reduction of C2H2 to C2H4 and H+ ion to H2 gas, etc. The detailed mechanism of the nitrogenase reaction is not clear. We have prepared monoclonal antibodies against Component I nitrogenase of A. vinelandii and examined the effects of antibodies on the nitrogenase reactions. A monoclonal antibody designated MA-1 inhibited C2H2 reduction activity strongly but did not inhibit H2 evolution activity. MA-2, on the contrary, inhibited only H2 evolution activity. MA-8 inhibited both C2H2 reduction and H2 evolution activity to the same extent.


We analyze the spreading of wavepackets in two-dimensional quasiperiodic and random tilings as a function of their codimension, i.e. of their topological complexity. In the quasiperiodic case, we show that the diffusion exponent that characterizes the propagation decreases when the codimension increases and goes to 1/2 in the high codimension limit. By constrast, the exponent for the random tilings is independent of their codimension and also equals 1/2. This shows that, in high codimension, the quasiperiodicity is irrelevant and that the topological disorder leads in every case, to a diffusive regime, at least in the time scale investigated here.


The conventional algorithm of channel estimation based on IEEE802.11ac is Least Square (LS) algorithm, which uses the Very High Throughput-Long Training Field (VHTLTF) of frame header as training sequence. While the conventional algorithm does not take into account the effects of noise and the varying characteristics of channel in time domain. In order to describe the slow change of channel in time domain, this paper considers that the VHT-LTF is linearly interpolated in the frames. To suppress the impact of noise, this paper proposes the Linear Minimum Mean Square Error (LMMSE) algorithm in frequency domain and utilizes a Wiener filter window function to approximate the correlation function in LMMSE. Simulation result shows that LMMSE provides 4dB SNR better than LS at 10−2 BER.


Kretschmann R, Benz C. God has a Plan: moral values and beliefs of Christian athletes in competitive sports. J. Hum. Sport Exerc. Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 495-519, 2012. Christian athletes are people with specific and distinctive moral guidelines in everyday life as well as in competitive sports. No matter if they are competing in triathlon, athletics, or playing soccer, if they are playing in the lowest or highest division of their sport, or if they are being faced with unmoral situations, that is what we expect. They therefore stand in contrast to some athletes of today's competitive sports who do not seem to have any guideline at all anymore, who would not shy at anything to win a competition and who therefore give competitive sports a rather negative touch. But is that really the case? Do Christian athletes fulfil this expectation? In the following study some light will be shed on the world of Christian sportsmen. Their ways of thinking, coping


The present study provides evidence of the many facets of a rapid change in media environment. Due to the unique circumstances of introducing cable television in Israel, the short‐term effects of the new medium could be monitored and measured. Using a before‐after research design, comparing cabled samples with matched samples unreached yet by cable, the effects of cable TV on the Israelis could be assessed. The findings highlight the changes on the behavioral, cognitive and even affective dimensions. It appears that within a year of introducing cable the Israelis experienced a significant change in their consumption of television, in their feelings towards the medium, in the social context of viewing, and in related aspects of leisure activities. Though some of the early, dramatic changes were clearly the result of the rapid transition that caused a temporal "cultural shock";, the change in certain patterns of viewing and attitudes remained stable even after a year. Finally, the present study joins other ...


A 48-year-old female, known to be diabetic and hypertensive presented with chronic intermittent abdominal pain in the left upper quadrant for 2 years. The ache was dull and colicky, which was on and off in nature. It has been worsened in the previous 2 months and sometimes associated with nausea and diarrhoea during the onset. She also reported that pain increases during food intake and sometimes it was radiating to the left lumbar region. There was no history of other associated symptoms and no history of any abdominal surgeries. Family history were unremarkable.
On examination patient was alert, conscious and oriented with normal vitals. Per abdomen was soft and distended, mild tenderness over epigastrium and left hypochondrium. There was no guarding or rigidity, no mass palpable or organomegaly. Other systems were within normal limits and laboratory tests showed normal findings.
Patient had taken USG abdomen initially and it was found to be normal. Later CECT abdomen taken which showed cluster of bowel loops seen in continuation with proximal jejunal loops in the region of anterior pararenal space on left side, which was suggestive of paraduodenal hernia. Small bowel barium study also done which showed cluster of jejunal loops on the left side of upper abdomen.


Category: Ankle, Basic Sciences/Biologics, Tendon Transfer, Dropfoot Introduction/Purpose: Posterior tibial tendon transfer (PTTT) is performed for a variety of pathologies where loss of dorsiflexion is compensated by the transfer, e.g. cavus foot, neurologic foot (dropfoot), etc. Transfers can be performed subcutaneously through a circumtibial way or deeply through the interosseous membrane (transmembranous). The latter is classically routed above the extensor retinaculum. We evaluated the circumtibial (CT), above-retinaculum transmembranous (ART) and below-retinaculum transmembranous (BRT) transfers gliding resistance and kinematics in a cadaveric model during ankle range of motion (ROM). Our first hypothesis was that the CT would be the transfer with more gliding resistance and with more kinematic alteration. Our second hypothesis was that the ART would not show significant differences against the BRT transfer. Methods: 8 cadaveric foot- ankle – distal tibia were prepared, identifying all extensor and flexor tendons proximally. The skin and subcutaneous tissue were kept intact. Each specimen was mounted on a special frame, and luminous markers were attached to the skin to adapt it to the Oxford Foot Model. A dead weight equal to 50% of the stance phase force was applied to each tendon, except for the Achilles tendon. Each specimen served as its own control, testing dorsiflexion when pulling the tibialis anterior (TA), recording the kinematics and gliding resistance. Then, dorsiflexion was tested with the transfers already described (CT, ART and BRT PTTT). A 10-repetition cycle of dorsiflexion and plantarflexion was performed for each condition. The movement of the foot was recorded using high speed cameras, and the force needed to achieve dorsiflexion was registered in every cycle. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software. Results: The circumtibial transfer showed the highest gliding resistance (p<0.05). The ART and BRT transfers increased the least the gliding resistance over the control, with no difference between them (p>0.05). Regarding kinematics, all transfers decreased ankle ROM, being the CT transfer the condition with less range of motion (-9 degrees, p<0.05). ART and BRT transfers did not show differences relative to ankle ROM among them. The CT transfer significantly produced more supination of the forefoot over the hindfoot (p<0.05). The ART and BRT transfers did not differ from the control group relative to supination/pronation. Finally all the transfers produced a significant abduction motion of the forefoot compared to the control, with no difference between them. Conclusion: The circumtibial transfer had the highest tendon gliding resistance and the worst kinematics of all transfers. It achieves less dorsiflexion and in an inverted position. Interestingly, there was minimal difference in gliding resistance between the above and below retinaculum transmembranous transfers. Per our results, we suggest that when performing a PTTT the transmembranous route should be the transfer of choice. The potential bowstringing effect which may be painful and not cosmetic for patients when performing a PTTT subcutaneously (ART) could be avoided if the transfer is routed under the retinaculum, without significant compromise of the final function.


The objective of this paper is to analyze expenditure structures and impact factors of household's transportation cost in order to provide policy-maker with quantitative and economic information for reducing household's transportation costs, using 1995-2007 household survey data. For this purpose, this study performed various economic analysis, including econometric regression analysis and income re-distributional effects. The four models were separately estimated with dependent variable (personal and public costs, public transit and private car costs) and independent variables (family, employ, age, education, cars, household income, region dummy variable). In addition, We analyzes impacts of transport policy instruments on the transportation expenditure. These instruments include changes of oil price and public transit fare, reform of public transport system, and extension of subway facilities. Finally, income re-distributional effects before and after transportation expenditure, using Pechman-Okner (PO) index and Wolfson index.


ABSTRACT In this article, the authors review measures of adult lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) affirmation and discrimination constructs in five categories: counselor competency, attitudes toward LGBTQ, experiences of discrimination, internalized attitudes, and sexual identity. Within each category the authors list scales, scale descriptions, validity, reliability, and normative data. Their aim was not to conduct a systematic review, but rather to provide readers with a sampling of available tools. The authors selected measures for inclusion on the basis of usage (assessed via average annual citation rates) or uniqueness of the construct or population addressed. Finally, the authors conclude with recommendations for future development of measures.


We study the onset of convection for a compressible fluid in a rotating spherical shell via linear anelastic fluid equations for a depth of 40% of the radius, constant kinematic viscosity and thermometric diffusivity, Taylor numbers up to 10/sup 5/, and density stratifications up to seven e-folds across the zone. The perturbations are expanded in spherical harmonics, and the radially dependent equations are solved with a Newton-Raphson relaxation method.


Everyday stressors of teenage girls are considered. The purpose of the study: development and testing of the questionnaire of everyday stressors for adolescents; determination of the intensity of various spheres of life; revealing the ratio of stress tension and life satisfaction. Methods: the author's questionnaire of everyday stressors for adolescents, the stress perception scale ShVS-10 (V.A.Ababkov et al.), the life satisfaction scale (E.Diener et al.). Factorization made it possible to single out 7 blocks of events related to the areas: "Loneliness, fears"; "Finance"; "School, study"; "Rejection"; "Communication with seniors"; "Case, planning"; "Competition, self-attitude". The α-Cronbach fitness coefficient for the entire questionnaire was 0.956. Content and convergent validity were checked using comparative, correlation, factorial, regression analysis. Correlation analysis revealed direct links between the number of stressful events and the strength of experience with "Overstrain", "Stress counteraction", "Perceived stress" of the ShVS-10 methodology, which confirmed the convergent validity of the questionnaire. Typological analysis showed a higher level of stress load in girls with low life satisfaction. Correlation analysis revealed negative relationships between life satisfaction and the number of stressors (p≤0.05), the intensity of the experience (p≤0.01), and the indicators of the SHVS-10 method (p≤0.01). Regression analysis showed that life satisfaction is a predictor that reduces the level of perceived stress (p≤0.000), overexertion (p≤0.000), resistance to stress (p≤0.000), the number of stressors in the areas "Loneliness, fears" (p≤0.000); "Finance" (p≤0.006); "School, study" (p≤0.026); "Rejection" (p≤0.003), "Communication with elders" (p≤0.001). Thus, a high level of life satisfaction can act as a factor contributing to the reduction of stress load.


The working bodies of screw volumetric machines are complex-profile cycloidal screw surfaces. This article deals with the problem of technological preparation for the production of such surfaces, associated with the uncertainty of the technological capabilities of a special processing strategy. To solve this problem, an analytical expression of the criterion was proposed, which makes it possible to assess the applicability of the processing strategy for the given geometric parameters. The adequacy of the proposed criterion is confirmed by machine and natural experiments.


Many Entoloma were collected at Mt. Baiyang, Mt. Jiri, Mt. Sunun, Mt. Naejang and Mt. Manduck to September 1991 from June 1991. These species were identified. According to the resulting, Enloloma readii, E. cinerascens, E. spadiceum, E. squamulosum and E. umbilicatum were newly to Korea.


The technology of improving the flavor,color,and yield of pouch dog meat and its sterilizing method have been explored.The result showed that high quality product can be obtained by adding 2% NaCl,1% sugar, 70 mg/kg NaNO 2 500 mg/kg sodium ascorbic acid,300 mg/kg miture of Vpp and Vc,and 0.3% compound phophate in product,with picking for 30 hours at 4℃,churning up for 5 minutes and sterilizing for 25 minutes at 121℃.


This paper analyzes the patterns of plant costumes Nationalization the formation of the main reason is because:The nation's geographical environment,culture background and aesthetic,religious,ethnic costumes crafts.Fashion through the nationalization of plant patterns of factor analysis,we understand that the dress patterns of plants are rooted in the traditional culture of various ethnic groups an integral part of the national identity of different costumes on the result of the nationalization of plant patterns.


This paper examines differences in the user feedback of scholars with varied experience with digital tools. As part of a usability study of a historical digital collection, our team conducted semi‐structured interviews with scholars with varying backgrounds. We categorized the sample into two groups, one with significant experience and one with little experience in using digital technology. Qualitative analysis of the interview data showed that users generally provided similar feedback. However, there were instances in which those with significant experience provided more design suggestions, and those with less experience expressed confusion and provided more feedback on website content. Drawing upon our findings, we provide recommendations for the usability evaluation of historical digital collections.


Popular culture and refined culture are opposite yet dependent upon each other. Popular culture has its own characteristics and bears certain social responsibilities. With its particular content and representational approach, popular culture gradually develops its own vivid artistic characteristics and aesthetic taste. Popular culture has a certain positive social significance as well as shortcoming and negative function. Therefore, it is an important task to guide popular culture to a right direction.


A human body scanning system of great practical convenience, which can be used in an outdoor environment, is proposed. The system uses only a single conventional video camera without the aid of special sensors or controlled illuminations. We leverage the structure from motion calibration results directly and improve the available video-based dense 3D reconstruction by integrating the surface smoothness constraints. The point cloud reinforcement is proposed to detect and adjust the conflict point data for the slender and shaky body parts. Combined with the silhouette adaptation, the proposed point cloud reinforcement achieves reasonable and plausible mesh reconstruction on these challenging parts. We further introduce the close-shot frames to refine the prereconstructed mesh model, leading to a colored watertight model. The overall system is approximate to automatic since only one or two times of painting brush interaction are required for robust and high-quality multiview image segmentation. The experiment results on various test sequences demonstrate the effectiveness and the robustness of the proposed method, even under very challenging scenarios when shaking body, varying illumination, and textureless regions occur.


The disclose is a convenient sample preparation methods for suspect medium to contain contaminants, the method, a) a medium of known volume, by passing from the inlet side through a filter to the outlet side , concentrated contaminants in the inflow side of the filter, b) the inflow side of the filter, is brought into contact with a liquid vehicle comprising at least one substrate produces a respective detectable moiety by interaction with the contaminants, c) filter in the inlet side, for a sufficient certain time the detectable moiety to be detected in the liquid vehicle, causing interact with contaminants substrate. The method further preferably after separation of the liquid vehicle from the contaminants, for example, a liquid vehicle through the filter, by making measurements on liquid vehicle contaminant free, the detection of measuring the detectable amount in a liquid vehicle step may be included. Also, what disclosed is a kit for carrying out the present invention method. .FIELD 1


The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments require that laboratories have a procedure for reporting "imminent life-threatening results" to caregivers. Although this system has improved timely intervention, inability to reach care providers undermines its impact (1). Prior analysis of critical result reporting practices has identified qualitative factors that lead to delays in critical result reporting, such as patient location, missing provider information, patient heterogeneity, and nonideal "panic" values (2). However, we have not found reports quantifying sources of communication failures in critical result reporting. Here we report sources of communication failures in reporting critical results in our healthcare system, which has 950 beds equally divided between a university and county hospital.

In our system, more than 99% of the time, critical results are called to a care provider by a medical technologist. If this method is unsuccessful, the technologist elicits assistance from the laboratory medicine resident on call to ensure that the value is communicated and appropriate action taken. In 2004 our Clinical Pathology residency program began maintaining an online database of all calls to the on-call laboratory …


Course Description: The purpose of the class is to provide the students with theoretical background in survey sampling. We shall cover a wide range of sample designs and estimation techniques used in practice, including simple random sampling, sampling with varying probabilities of selection, stratification, systematic sampling, cluster sampling, double sampling, stratification, single-stage and multi-stage cluster samples, ratio and regression estimators, and double sampling.


We revisit the standard formulation of tabular actor-critic algorithm as a two time-scale stochastic approximation with value function computed on a faster time-scale and policy computed on a slower time-scale. This emulates policy iteration. We observe that reversal of the time scales will in fact emulate value iteration and is a legitimate algorithm. We provide a proof of convergence and compare the two empirically with and without function approximation (with both linear and nonlinear function approximators) and observe that our proposed critic-actor algorithm performs on par with actor-critic in terms of both accuracy and computational effort.


In searching for optimum conditions, the response surface methods comprise two phases. In the first phase, the method of the steepest ascent with a 2 k-p design is used in searching for a region of improved response. The curvature of the response surface is checked in the second phase. For testing the evidence of curvature, a reasonable design is a 2 k-p fractional factorial design augmented by centre runs. Using c-optimality criterion, the optimal number of centre runs is investigated. Incorporating c-efficiencies for the curvature test with D-efficiencies and G-efficiencies of CCDs for the quadratic response surfaces and then, adopting the Mini-Max principle, i.e. maximizing the worst efficiency, we propose robust centre runs with respect to the three optimality criteria to be chosen.


To study the effect of port cluster development on regional economy development,the exploratory spatial data analysis method is used to study China port spatial pattern and its evolution in 19852012.The spatial autocorrelation analysis by local Moran's index shows that China's port spatial pattern is formed by three big port clusters: Bohai Gulf port cluster,Yangtze River Delta port cluster and Pearl River Delta port cluster.Bohai Gulf port cluster shows the evolution from single high-low concentration to multiple high-high concentration;Yangtze River Delta port cluster shows that its evolution is similar to Bohai Gulf port cluster and the new high-low concentration appears simultaneously;Pearl River Delta port cluster shows a relatively stable high-low concentration.By the spatial analysis tool of ArcGIS,the numerical reference can be provided for the aggregation degree and aggregation mode of port,and the aggregation degree and aggregation mode of port can be shown directly by graph.


Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative pathology representing a socioeconomic challenge, however, the complex mechanism behind the disease is not yet fully understood [...].


An overview of the use of polyesters for containers is presented. The market for polyethylene terephthalate container resin should reach 760 million pounds by 1989. Diethylene glycol, a polymerization by-product, and other comonomers reduce the polymer melting point and crystallization tendency, yielding wider container processing latitude. The effect of these modifications on creep and tensile strength is discussed. Improved gaseous barrier approaches and hot-fillable container opportunities are presented, Newer applications for thermoplastic polyester containers are summarized.


Entertainment and recreational activities are the basic necessities of human beings. Due to hectic life of modern technological world everybody needs amusemen ts and entertainment to refresh the body and mind. In all the societies of the world events of amusement are arranged for the sake of recreation of the peoples. For this purpose, people arrange songs, dances, meeting of poets, plays, festivals, fairs, Stage shows, dramas and music shows according to their culture and customs. Today Film, TV and radio and social media have expanded the concept of recreation. The Western media has tried to utilized sports, music, singing, drinking, gambling, co -meetings, nakedness of women and obscenity as a weapon for making their programs interesting. Entertainment content of the mass media provides enjoyment and may nourish powers of aesthetic appreciation, so games, music, fashion, show business and even from decoration ofhouses to cooking is considered as recreation of human being. Muslim entertainment media is to somehow different from western entertainment and recreational media. This paper is meant to explore some distinguishing factors and ways of Islamic and Western styles of recreation and entertainment and the role of Muslim media in Muslim societies.


The paper considers the problems of modeling and identification of parameters for models of surface ships. The proposed identification method is applied to a modified second order Nomoto model for ship steering. The identification algorithm is based on the Dynamic Regressor Extension and Mixing Method (DREM) that is performed in two steps. At the first stage parameterization is used for a regression model, in which the regressor and regression depend on the measured signals, namely, longitudinal, lateral and angular velocities and steering angle. At the second stage a new regression model is built using linear stable filters and delays. Finally, the parameters are estimated by the standard gradient descent method. The paper proposes a new algorithm which identifies the parameters for models of surface ships. The authors analyzed the prospects of the proposed estimating method by computer experiments. Experiments have shown the advantage of the method: when using the gradient descent method, the transient time spent to estimate the signal parameters is much longer than using the DREM method. At the same time, in the case of using the DREM method, there is no overshoot. The results of the work can serve as a basis for methods, algorithms and software for designing ship automated navigation systems and control systems for other modes of transport. This is confirmed by the simulation results.


This research aims to determine if the broadcasting of social causes impacts the perception of a media company brand image. The theoretical framework is based on concepts such as social advertising, brand image, corporate identity and reputation as a starting point to understand how solidarity initiatives affect the brand image. The empirical work consisted on the application of a qualitative open question survey to 266 citizens of the autonomous community of Catalonia (Spain). The main results determine that the broadcasting of social causes has a positive impact on brand image, according to the perception of citizens. In addition, they perceive the efforts being made in such initiatives as positive. Thus, the linking with stakeholders becomes stronger thanks to these campaigns.


The MD5 message-digest algorithm is one of the most popular encryption schemes.It provides a "fingerprint" or message digest of an arbitrary-length message.It is computationally infeasible to come up with two messages having the same message digest or come up with any message having a given message digest.The iterative redundant encryption based on MD5 algorithm expands the MD5 algorithm.Using strong security of MD5 algorithm,the function of file encryption,decryption and data-integrity protection is realized.


B6.Kb−Db− mice are devoid of class Ia but express normal levels of class Ib molecules. They have low levels of CD8 T cells in both the thymus as well as peripheral T cell compartments. Although the percentage of splenic CD8αα T cells is increased in these animals, ∼90% of CD8 T cells are CD8αβ. In contrast to B6 animals, most of the CD8 T cells from these mice have a memory phenotype (CD44highCD122high CD62Llow) including both CD8αβ and CD8αα subsets. In the thymus of B6.Kb−Db− animals, there is a decrease in the percentage of SP CD8 T cells, although most are CD44low, similar to that seen in B6 mice. The spleens from day 1-old B6 and B6.Kb−Db− mice have a relatively high proportion of CD44highCD62Llow CD8 T cells. However, by day 28 most CD8 T cells in B6 mice have a naive phenotype while in B6.Kb−Db− mice the memory phenotype remains. Unlike CD44high cells that are found in B6 animals, most CD44high cells from B6.Kb−Db− mice do not secrete IFN-γ rapidly upon activation. The paucity of CD8 T cells in B6.Kb−Db− mice might be due in part to their inability to undergo homeostatic expansion. Consistent with this, we found that CD8 T cells from these animals expand poorly in X-irradiated syngeneic hosts compared with B6 CD8 T cells that respond to class Ia Ags. We examined homeostatic expansion of B6 CD8 T cells in single as well as double class Ia knockout mice and were able to estimate the fraction of cells reactive against class Ia vs class Ib molecules.


Reducing the number of required devices has a great importance in multilevel inverters area. In view of this, a cascaded multilevel inverter structure is proffered which requires the least number of components; IGBT and driver circuits. Four separate methods (algorithms) are recommended to ascertain the values of used DC voltage resources. In this paper, comparing the recommended topology with conventional structures from different aspects is done and comparison results are discussed. Simulation results of a 13-level inverter are shown in order to validate generating all voltage levels.


SUMMARY This paper describes an ultra low power, motion estimation (ME) processor for MPEG2 HDTV resolution video. It adopts a Gradient Descent Search (GDS) algorithm that drastically reduces required computational power to 6 GOPS. A SIMD datapath architecture optimized for the GDS algorithm decreases the clock frequency and operating voltage. A low power 3-port SRAM with a write-disturb-free cell array arrangement is newly designed for image data caches of the processor. The proposed ME processor contains 7-M transistors, integrated in 4.50 mm × 3.35 mm area using 0.13 µm CMOS technology. Estimated power consumption is less than 100 mW at 81 email@example.com V. The processor is applicable to a portable HDTV system.


A program is presented that calculates the mechanical properties of reservoir rocks from sonic logs. The program was written in Microsoft BASIC and the source code for MS-DOS, Apple Macintosh, and Amiga personal computers is given.


Empirical studies find that contrary to expected outcomes, it is not patents that most often impede research. Instead, it is access to tangible research inputs that is more likely to cause the delay or abandonment of promising research. Difficulty in the negotiation and execution of material transfer agreements (MTAs), the contractual agreements governing the transfer of materials, research tools, and data, is the cause. This Article addresses a new trend in MTA practice that is both exciting and problematic. In the past, MTAs largely functioned as a recording mechanism to track who had what materials and to set expectations in case of a laboratory accident or infringement lawsuit involving the transferred material. Now, however, some industry parties are using MTAs to gain more than just a record of the transfer and basic representations and warranties. These industry parties are using MTAs to develop and build relationships. This, in turn, is leading to more shared innovative activity, a key factor in moving scientific fields forward. Yet this progress towards more shared innovative activity is not without cost. Most notably, this modern MTA practice is increasing transaction costs and the likelihood of bargaining breakdowns because not all parties are using MTAs in this way. In order to facilitate access to materials, tools, and data while also furthering shared innovative activity, non-industry parties, most notably academic institutions, should join the modern MTA regime. Lawyers have an opportunity to improve the material transfer process through innovative contracting practices. This Article provides suggestions on how to accomplish this by overcoming contested terms and using a modern MTA to give access to materials and help develop collaborative relationships.


PURPOSE: A topical formulation containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug(NSAID), particularly diclofenac particularly useful for alleviating pain/inflammation associated with infection caused by herpes virus, especially herpes simplex virus(HSV) and varicella-zoster virus(VZV) is provided. It shortens the skin recovery to about 1 week from about 2 weeks when Acyclovir is applied to skins of patients. CONSTITUTION: The topical formulation contains NSAID, particularly diclofenac. The diclofenac is at least one selected from the group consisting of diclofenac acid, diclofenac sodium, diclofenac potassium, diclofenac diethylamine, diclofenac triethanolamine and diclofenac tromethamine and contained in an amount of about 0.1 to 10 weight%(w/w) or volume%(w/v) in the topical formulation. Also is used any one selected from the group consisting of etodolac, ketorolac, bromfenac, diflunisal, ibuprofen, fenoprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen, suprofen, meclofenamate, mefenamic acid, piroxicam, meloxicam, indomethacin, sulindac, phenylbutazone, oxyphenbutazone, and tolmetin instead of the diclofenac.


This paper is an historical review of the United Fruit Company's Radio Towers, and describes the origin of a 1906 design for 200 ft. (61 m.) towers; of 50 ft. (15 m.) extension added in 1910; of the hurricane wrecks of 1914, 1915, and 1916, of data deduced from them, and of the reconstruction of the towers. It discusses the effect of a new policy that "radio communication should be made so reliable that, when all other means fail, the public can confidently look to the radio stations to maintain service, which can be done if only the towers remain standing." The preliminary designs for three-legged towers made in 1915 are described, and their economy and advantages as compared with four-legged towers, the saving due to adjustable rod bracing and the low cost of shop work effected by making all leg sections equal short chords of a circular arc, are pointed out. The design of the Tegucigalpa (Honduras) towers, with antenna bridges and the latest revised, "Standard Plan of 400 ft (122 m.) self-supporting towers, with 150 ft. (46 m.) antenna bridges," are shown with the specified loads, unit stresses, and notes on the most favorable direction of wire pull in relation to cross-section of tower. The design of sections and details are briefly referred to, with the limiting heights of towers to which similar sections are applicable. Two pairs of 100 ft. (30.5 m.


The article examines the policy of identity construction in the EU, provides a brief overview of the main stages of this process from the moment of the first discourses on identity to the current state.


Semi-rigid foams were prepared by NR latex with 0, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 30 phr CaSiO3 added in a sulphur-curing system. The main composition of eggshell is made of 96.23%wt of CaCO3 and 3.77%wt of other oxide compounds. The CaSiO3 induced a spontaneous polarisation and reinforced the NR matrix due to ionic charge contents of Ca2+, Si4+ and O2− in its structure. Furthermore, the CaSiO3 was found to enhance the mechanical, thermal and physical properties of the composite foams. The suitable condition to prepare the semi-rigid composite foams was by adding 30 phr CaSiO3 in the NR latex with the sulphur-curing system. The obtained bulk density, the relative composite foam density, the compressive strength, the contact angle with water, and acetone at the water to acetone ratio of 1:1 were found to be 1.2230 g cm−3, 0.3611, 588.10 kPa, 103.3°, 26.5° and 85.3°, respectively.


A 48-year-old woman survived multiple episodes of ventricular tachycardia, flutter, and fibrillation which were associated with a profound thiazide-induced hypokalemia. The significant features of the case are (1) the dosage of hydrochlorothiazide was quite modest, (2) the patient had no known underlying heart disease and was not receiving digitalis, and (3) the arrhythmias were remarkably refractory to the usual therapeutic measures. When recurring ventricular tachyarrhythmias could not be controlled with quinidine sulfate, procainamide hydrochloride diphenylhydantoin sodium, and lidocaine hydrochloride, treatment with bretylium tosylate was instituted. No further episodes occurred thereafter, and it was possible to discontinue this agent without ventricular automatism after potassium repletion had been accomplished. Bretylium appears to be a new and effective agent for the control of major ventricular arrhythmias.


Dysarthria is a group of speech disorders resulting from neurological disturbances in central or peripheral systems. There are six single types of dysarthria and all present with deviations at both segmental and suprasegmental level. However, it is unclear what matters more to the listener: the deficits at the segmental or suprasegmental level. In this study, reading samples were collected from subjects with any of the three types of dysarthria: scanning speech of ataxic dysarthria, spastic dysarthria and hypokinetic dysarthria. All had slow speaking rate, monopitch and monoloudness. Acoustic analyses were used to examine changes at both segmental and suprasegmental level. At the segmental level, parameters obtained include word and syllable per minute, vowel F1 and F2, syllable, word, sentence, and pause duration, mean F0 and vF0 at sentence and paragraph level. Peak F0 and vowel duration of stressed and unstressed vowels were also obtained. Perception experiment was conducted. Pitch contours were extrac...


Background Escherichia coli sequence type 131 (ST131) is an important multidrug-resistant extraintestinal pathogen, which can cause many kinds of infections. Integrons may play a crucial role in the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes. The purpose of this study was to characterize the prevelance of integrons among E. coli ST131 strains in China. Methods Eighty-three E. coli ST131 strains in China. E. coli ST131 strains in China. Results Overall, 26.5% (22/83) of the E. coli ST131 strains in China. dfrA17-aadA5 and aac(6′)-Ib-cr-cmlA5. Only one type of Pc promoter variant was detected among 22 integron-positive isolates (PcW). In vivo transfer of integron was successful for 9 of integron-positive E. coli ST131 strains in China. E. coli ST131 strains in China. Conclusions Our study showed a low prevalence of integrons was detected in E. coli ST131. Continued surveillance of this mobile genetic element should be performed to study the evolution of antibiotic resistance among E. coli ST131.E. coli ST131 strains in China. E. coli ST131 strains in China.


TiO2 photoanodes used for water-splitting solar cells or dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) have to meet the following properties to assure high efficiency: good connection between TiO2 grains and a large inner surface area, TiO2 grain shape and film conductivity. Nanocrystalline TiO2 films are usually prepared by adding an organic binder to TiO2 paste on glass substrates, and followed by heating at temperatures ranging from 450 to 500 C. The organic binder is used to increase viscosity, enabling the formation of uniform TiO2 films. Heat treatment is used to sinter the nanoparticles, as well as burn out the organic binder. In the case of composite formulations involving organic polymer electrolyte membranes, the conventional preparation technology is not suitable, because of the low temperature resistance of the polymer, on order of 150 C. Therefore, to make thick TiO2 films with good interconnection between the nanoparticles at low temperature, it is essential to enhance the viscosity of TiO2 colloidal solution without using an organic binder. Possible approaches are developed by using acid-base chemistry, where the viscosity of acidic TiO2 colloidal solution is monitored while adding ammonia solution which acts as a base. Thus the processed TiO2 photoanode was assembled into a photoelectrochemical cell and tested by measuring I-V characteristics under illumination by white light from a solar simulator. TGA, DSC, IR, XRF, XRD and SEM analyses were performed to characterize the films. The low temperature process yielded titania films that were comparable to the conventional high temperature method.


One of the key reasons for the tremendous growth and interest in the operative management of the young adult with hip pain1,2 is advancements in high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)3,4. Although radiographs provide critical information with regard to the osseous architecture and should always remain the first line of investigation, they are limited in their capacity to provide a detailed analysis of the other key anatomical components. MRI is the modality that provides the most comprehensive imaging of the hip joint, allowing for visualization of anatomy and detection of pathological conditions of the various structures, including the labrum, articular cartilage, synovium, and bone. The investigations of labral pathological conditions, femoroacetabular impingement, and early hip arthritis areas are studies in which MRI excels over all other imaging modalities. In this article, we review the basic principles of MRI in the evaluation of the native hip joint and the most common pathological conditions of the hip with their characteristic MRI findings.

In clinical practice, 1.5 or 3-Tesla (T) field strength MRI scanners are the most commonly used. Higher field strengths can be favorable as they provide higher signal-to-noise and contrast-to-noise ratios5,6.

MRI has multiplanar image acquisition capability. It is …


The fortran version of the AcerDET package has been published in [1], and used in the multiple publications on the predictions for physics at LHC. The package provides, starting from list of particles in the event, the list of reconstructed jets, isolated electrons, muons, photons and reconstructed missing transverse energy. The AcerDET represents a simplified version of the package called ATLFAST, used since several years within ATLAS Collaboration. In the fast simulation implemented in AcerDET, some functionalities of ATLFAST are absent, but the most crucial detector effects are implemented and the parametrisations are largely simplified. Therefore it is not representing details neither of ATLAS nor CMS detectors.
This short paper documents a new C++ implementation of the same algorithms as used in [1]. We believe that the package can be well adequate for some feasibility studies of the high p_T physics at LHC and at planned ppFCC. The further evolution of this code is planned.
[1] E. Richter-Was, AcerDET: A Particle level fast simulation and reconstruction package for phenomenological studies on high p_T physics at LHC , hep-ph/0207355.


Objective To evaluate and compare the CT and hypotonic duodenography(HD)findings of duodenal adenocarcinoma. Methods The CT and HD signs of 16 duodenal adenocarcinomas proved histologically were evaluated retrospectively. Results The main CT signs included intraluminal mass, thickening of bowel wall and necrosis. Ulceration was present in 4 cases, invasion of adjacent structures in 11, liver metastasis in 1 and adenopathy in 1. The size of intraluminal tumor measured by HD was identical with operative result. Irregular filling defect and mucosal destruction in 14 cases and ulcerations in 7 cases were seen. Conclusion CT scan can demonstrate the intraluminal lesions, extraluminal involvement and metastasis.In primary duodenal adenocarcinoma HD displays the intraluminal abnormality better than CT.


We consider the case when the spatial topology of the Universe is that of a torus with metric {ital g}{sub {ital i}{ital j}}. We form an expression for the density of states under the constraint that the total momentum and winding number are zero. To accomplish this we introduce nonzero values of {ital g}{sub 00}, {ital g}{sub 0{ital i}}, and {ital B}{sub 0{ital i}} in the imaginary-time formalism and integrate over all such values.


n-Butyl acrylate-based zwitterionomers and ionomers containing 3-[[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl](dimethyl)ammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (SBMA) and 2-[butyl(dimethyl)amino]ethyl methacrylate methanesulfonate (BDMAEMA MS), respectively, were synthesized using conventional free radical polymerization. Size-exclusion chromatography confirmed the molecular weights of the copolymers exceeded the critical molecular weight between entanglements (Me) for poly(n-butyl acrylate). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed that zwitterionomers promoted more well-defined microphase separation than cationic analogues. Dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA) of the copolymers showed a rubbery plateau region due to physical cross-links between charges for zwitterionomers only. Since SBMA and BDMAEMA MS have very similar chemical structures, we attributed improved microphase separation and superior elastomeric performance of the zwitterionomers to stronger ...


, pERFORhlAX~ on a variety of visual perceptual tasks maybe disturbed "': fo~owing injury or disease of the so-c~ed "~so~ation ~cas" Of the ~. cortex in man. Thus impairment may commonly be elicited by tests of .,so~ing and.Clmstication~euber, Battersby and Bender, 19j 1;' McFie , ~ knd .P]crcy, 1952); or when the patient is requfied to distinguish bet~veen. 'figure" and "grounfl ~euber 'and Weinstein, 1956); or even on the, ~., less complex tests of disdmination beween dissimilar stimulus figures . (Batter;by,' K~eger. and .Bender, 1955). However; location of the ~~' cortical" lesion wodd' not seem to be an import3nt dete~inant of the : "'~ deficit on.aqy. of these tests in man. Nor yet "are such disorders of per" ce,piion.a regular consequence of a lesion i,n the association cortex. ~' '." ',4 difl-erint conclusion concerning the necessary, site of the lesion may be 'drawn when clinical imPai~ent on tests of "sPatial Perception" is. considered. .~us. the disorders termed '.apractognosia'" (Hdcaen, Pinfield, Bertrand and Malmo, 1956), "amorphosynthesis" (Denny-Brown and Banker, 19j4) rmd "visual-spatial agnosia" (Ettlinger, Barrington and Zangwill, 1957) have. &en &nerally reporEed to follow lesions situated in the posterior patietal areas. This same site. of injury has been ireplicated for impairment on a quantitative test of sPatial orientation ', in an unselected series 'of cases (Semmes, Weinstein, Ghent and Teuber, '.. 195j). However. the earlier view that such disorders of spatial perception ~rcrc specific 10 the visuai modality can no longer be sustained (Ettlinger. et cI/.). In fact "the parietal group showed a slightly greater percentage decrement on the tactual maps than on the visual series" (Scmmes et al.). It would therefore appear that no consistent relationsip h:~sas yet been established in an unselected series of clinical cases


The PLS model of human capital investment of farmers and non-agricultural income was constructed. Effects of farmers human capital investment on farmers' non-agricultural income in Heilongjiang Province were studied. ADF test and regression residual cointegration test were conducted. The results showed that health investment,migration investment,education investment and farmers' non-agricultural income has long-term stability and long-term equilibrium,the investment in education on the non-agricultural income of farmers has the most significant increasing effect,health investment,migration investment followed in Heilongjiang Province,but the overall human capital accumulation is still insufficient. According to this,corresponding countermeasures were put forward,such as strengthening rural human resources development,developing adult education,strengthening rural medical security system construction,perfecting rural communication.


The present invention relates to a polynucleotide having cellobiohydrolase activity of an isolated polypeptide, and isolating the encoded polypeptide. The present invention further relates to a nucleic acid comprising the polynucleotide constructs, vectors and host cells, and means for making and using the polypeptides.


Sodium radioiodide (Na-I/sup 131/) and I/sup 131/-labeled human fibrogen (RIHF), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), human serum albumin (RIHSA), and diiodofluorescein (DIF) were injected into experimental tumor-bearing rats (cloromyeloma) and into rats with an inflammatory process due to local burning. The radioiodine uptake by both types of lesions was measured in vivo and in vitro, after sacrffice of the animals, and compared with uptake by normal homologous tissues. NaI/sup 131/ and D-I/sup 131/F were rapidly concentrated in both lesions, but no detectable difference from the normal tissues was observed 24 hr after injection. Similar behavior showed R-I/sup 131/HF, R-I/sup 131/ HSA, and PVP-I/sup 131/ in the inflammatory processes, while they were progressively concentrated in the tumors, the maximum being reached 24 hr after injection. The same indicators were tested in patients with known tumors of inflammatory processes of the lungs. R-I/sup 131/HSA yielded 82% of correct results in 56 cases with brain tumors, while no significant results were obtained in other types of tumors. D-I/sup 131/F gave correct results in all the tumors localized in the limbs and salivary glands, while tumors located in other areas were not detected. Very encouraging results were obtained in a small group of brain tumors (9 cases)more » using PVP-I/sup 131/. R-I/sup 131/HF was used in 24 tumors of various organs and in 6 cases of localized lung inflammatory process yielded negative results. The percentage of correct diagnosis with R-I/sup 131/HF in lesions not localized along the midline was 70%. It was concluded that R-I/sup 131/HF and PVP-I/sup 131/ appear to be useful indicators for the early detection of tumors in organs in which other indicators have proved unsuccessful. (auth)« less


Abstract Despite recent efforts to make AI systems more transparent, a general lack of trust in such systems still discourages people and organizations from using or adopting them. In this article, we first present our approach for evaluating the trustworthiness of AI solutions from the perspectives of end-user explainability and normative ethics. Then, we illustrate its adoption through a case study involving an AI recommendation system used in a real business setting. The results show that our proposed approach allows for the identification of a wide range of practical issues related to AI systems and further supports the formulation of improvement opportunities and generalized design principles. By linking these identified opportunities to ethical considerations, the overall results show that our approach can support the design and development of trustworthy AI solutions and ethically-aligned business improvement.


Making use of the intelligent technology based on the fuzzy logic, the neuronal nets and the genetic algorithms, it pretends to make a paradigm for the artificial cloning devices in industrial processes, specifically for sensors , which will to reply the same or b etter functions of the real devices by means of the evolution of their behavior.


This letter is written to support the idea that it would be a good thing for the children of this country if pediatricians raised their fees. This bald and mercenary-like statement can be made particularly by me without question of a selfish motive, and I make it only to emphasize certain trends in pediatric practice which I think are not to the advantage of the public or of the pediatricians. Most pediatricians work too hard and see too many patients.
 I assume the privilege of a confirmed professional teacher of pediatricians with a background approaching 30 years, to "point with pride" and "view with alarm" certain trends in pediatric practice.
 I believe we can name hardly any more important influence for the well-being of the children in this country than the modern development of the practice of pediatrics as influenced by the American Board of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatrics.


Abstract Chemical modifications to improve the efficacy of an antisense oligonucleotide are designed to increase the binding affinity to target RNA, to enhance the nuclease resistance, and to improve cellular delivery. Among the different sites available for chemical modification in a nucleoside building block, the 2′-position of the carbohydrate moiety1 has proven to be the most valuable for various reasons: (1) 2′-modification can confer an RNA-like 3′-endo conformation to the antisense oligonucleotide. Such a preorganization for an RNA like conformation2,3,4,5 greatly improves the binding affinity to the target RNA; (2) 2′-modification provides nuclease resistance to oligonucleotides; (3) 2′-modification provides chemical stability against potential depurination conditions pharmacology evaluations and correlation with pharmacokinetic changes are emerging from these novel chemical modifications. Analytical chemistry of modified oligonucleotides before and after biological administration of antisense oli...


The aim of This paper is to define for the first time the concept of symbolic Turiyam group. This work is devoted to study some elementary properties of symbolic Turiyam groups and to establish the algebraic basis of this structure such as symbolic Turiyam subgroups, symbolic Turiyam homomorphisms, and symbolic Turiyam isomorphisms.


The practical significance of establishing credit government is elaborated.The performance of governments lacking in credit and the reasons are analyzed.Then,the effective ways to construct credit government are discussed,with the proposal of service-oriented government,responsible and clean government.Some basic ideas as developing the credit culture and promoting the government ethics are put forward.


Quantitative analysis of yeasts can be difficult in mould-contaminated samples. Particularly in the presence of fast growing moulds, counting yeasts may be difficult or even impossible. Furthermore, in foodstuffs made with mould cultures, mould counts usually exceed yeast counts. Isolation of yeasts in mould-contaminated samples is often effected by the incorporation of sodium or calcium propionate in the media (Bowen & Beech, 1967 ; Rale & Vakil, 1984). Another possible method of inhibiting moulds, less effective than the use of propionate, is to use a medium with the low pH of 3.5 (Devoyod & Sponem, 1970). In addition, mould inhibition through the use of antibiotics is a possibility. Sheridan (1992) reported the inhibition of moulds by oligomycin, but no detailed information was given on the required concentrations or the effect on the growth of yeasts. The aim of this study was therefore to examine the inhibiting effect of oligomycin on different mould species, especially on commercial cultures used in cheesemaking. and to determine the concentrations that do not influence the growth of the yeast species commonly found in milk products.


In 1991 an estimated 267 thousand people migrated to the United Kingdom from outside the British Isles while 239 thousand left the country....This article gives details of these latest international migration statistics and relates them to previous years. (EXCERPT)


What's the state of the practice of software engineering? If you look at current software engineering books, journals, and conferences, you won't find much of an answer.


Heinsia crinita (Afzel) Taylor is a medicinal plant currently used in traditional medicine in many African countries to treat various diseases including erectile dysfunction because of its aphrodisiac property empirically known by many people who use an aqueous macerate or decoction for this medical purpose. Nowadays, this aqueous extract is put in an ameliorated galenic form as tablets and called Diazostimul as a natural aphrodisiac product. In the present study, Diazostimul aqueous extract was evaluated in animal model for its aphrodisiac property. Results revealed that the oral administration of this extract in treated male Wistar rats leaded to significant increase of some sexual parameter behaviors such as mount intromission or mount frequency, intromission frequency, penile erection, penile trusting, ejaculation frequency, copulatory efficiency, number of sperm and penile ejaculation interval. On the other hand, other sexual parameters like mount frequency, intromission latency, ejaculation latency known significant decrease. It also showed good potency, ability, motivation, arousability, performance and vigor in treated male animals. All these effects clearly demonstrated that Diazostimul aqueous extract possessed aphrodisiac property. The administration of the extract also significantly increase the level of sexual orientation, oeastradiol, testosterone, production of sperm, motility and fertility in male animals,. In addition, it did not significantly affect the haematological and biochemical parameter concentrations and weight of vital organs of treated animals. It in contrary, it influenced the concentration of some electrolytes. In acute and subacute toxicity testing, results showed that Diazostimul is a safe drug without any toxic effect. They support and justify the current use of this natural medicine by many people in their daily sexual relation where there find great satisfaction. ALP : alkaline phosphate, HDL : high-density lipoproteins, LDL : low-density lipoproteins, SGOT : serum glutamooxalate transferase, SGPT : serum glutamopyruvate transferase.


Self‐consistent band structure and density of states calculations were performed for the pure alumina (corundum phase) and the aluminates α‐Al2–x Tx O3 where T is a transition metal and stands for Sc, Y, La and Ac with x = 0.5. In this study we have employed the full potential linear augmented plane wave (FPLAPW) with generalized gradient approximations (GGA) based on the density functional theory (DFT). The results show that the size of the band gap in these alloys decreases considerably and these reductions are related to the ionic radius of the substituted transition metal. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)


The objective of this research is to measure the impact of service quality on consumer purchase intention in the retail environment. Implicitly, natural and informative focus has an effect on the customer's buying intentions. For qualitative analysis, data were collected from 477 customer surveys in large retail stores. The findings of the study indicate that quality of service have a positive effect on the purchase intention of the consumer. The results also showed that consumers do not intervene with pricing in large retail stores, as consumers feel that fair pricing are charged by retailers. Most consumers depend on the reputation and efficiency of the service quality.


The production method of the polymer using a simple device structure and a device for the continuous polymerization for producing the polymer having a high quality is provided. Apparatus container; It means for supplying a monomer to a reaction vessel; It means for supplying a polymerization initiator to the reaction vessel; It means for sensing the temperature in the reaction vessel; So as to have a preset temperature means for controlling the temperature of the external wall surface of the container; And a reaction by the monomer supply means and / or the initiator supply means so that the temperature is the same temperature as the set temperature and is substantially in the vessel and means for controlling the supply flow rate of monomer and / or a polymerization initiator to the vessel. Polymerization apparatus, polymerization


This study introduces metal coating as an effective sample preparation method to remove charge-up caused by the shadow effect during fi eld emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) analysis of dynamic structured samples. During a FE-SEM analysis, charge-up occurs when the primary electrons (input electrons) that scan the specimens are not equal to the output electrons (secondary electrons, backscattered electrons, auger electrons, etc.) generated from the specimens. To remove charge-up, a metal layer of Pt, Au or Pd is applied on the surface of the sample. However, in some cases, charge-up still occurs due to the shadow effect. This study developed a coating method that effectively removes charge-up. By creating a converted sample stage capable of simultaneous tilt and rotation, the shadow effect was successfully removed, and image data without charge-up were obtained.


ABS TRACT Aim: Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is one of the most common endocrinological problems in the neonatal period. CH, which occurs in 1:3,000-4,000 births, is a preventable cause of mental retardation. In the literature, the most common cause of CH is dysgenesis of the thyroid gland, followed by thyroid dyshormonogenesis. We aimed to determine the prevalence of permanent (P-CH) and transient (T-CH) CH in cases followed up with a diagnosis of CH and to identify a prediction method for persistency.